Black Tomato Blog

enchanting sri lanka and maldives

Hi, it's Carolyn here.

I've just gotten back from a totally entrancing visit to Sri Lanka which I wanted to share with you all.

We kicked off our trip with a few days lying on what has to be the world’s most achingly perfect beach at Cocoa Island in the Maldives – perfect shock therapy for our London-frazzled nerves (and a highly recommended way to start).

Sun kissed and de-stressed, we landed in Colombo primed for adventure...  we knew we’d like it but we were totally unprepared to love this tear-drop island so unreservedly.  Beyond its many obvious advantages (piles of UNESCO World Heritage sites, lush and varied scenery, soul-stirring palm-studded beaches), there are two things that make Sri Lanka such an amazing discovery: the first is the people – from the waving schoolchildren to the smiling villagers, this has to be the friendliest country ever. The highlight of was our cultural ambassador (our heaven-sent chauffeur-guide) who spent the drives in between our many destinations regaling us with everything from the latest cricket updates to ecological factoids to ancient local lore... he was indispensable, utterly charming, and made the whole adventure an absolute dream.

The second incredible advantage to Sri Lanka (and a reason to hurry there now rather than later) is that the recent (now resolved) political turmoil has kept away both masses of tourists and the mass-market hoteliers that cater to these unwieldy hoards. Instead, Sri Lanka’s many stylish accommodations are by-and-large operated by artistic, bohemian types building a life and legacy here as a labour of love – each place we stayed was imbued with a totally different and equally enchanting character.

 

Coupled with the lack of high-speed motorways that make travel necessarily leisurely, Sri Lanka is a perfect embodiment of the boutique, slow-travel ethos. From the baby monkeys playing on our balcony on our first morning to elephant families in Minneriya National Park to the rickety colonial-era train we took up to the tea country and the breathtaking views when we got there, we were totally hooked and by day three we were plotting a return with family, friends – anyone we could physically push onto a plane.

Get thee to Colombo – you won’t regret it.

CA

If you like the look of this trip to Sri Lanka check out our Countryside to Coast experience or give us a call on 0207 426 9888 and we can help design your perfect trip.

the fantastic four (and not a spandex suit in sight)

Ok, We’re all aware the summer months are drawing in (it’s all people seem to be talking about at the moment) but we’ve been looking to the future and getting rather excited about the possibilities across the globe for that much needed pre-Christmas get away.

But where to? Well, the brilliant thing about this time of year is that there are great opportunities across all four corners of the globe – no limitations now.  So with that in mind we’ve dusted off the compass and picked four of the most exciting, luxurious and up-lifting experiences each in their prime before the madness of Christmas kicks in.  

Four countries, four continents and four completely different mind blowing trips..

Norway – Northern lights

Husky sleds, snowmobiles and of course, the most dazzling, awe-inspiring light show on planet earth. Within the Arctic Circle, Svalbard archipelago is so far North Polar bears outnumber humans. Eek. A once-in-a-lifetime and utterly unique winter break.

Click here for an Arctic adventure

Namibia – Sossusvlei

The absolute ‘must-do before you die’ trip. To experience the baron yet achingly beautiful Skeleton Coast is something of complete wonder and a Black Tomato office favourite. If this doesn’t transport you to a whole different world this winter, nothing will.

Click here to safari into the Namibian wilderness

China – Yunnan

November is the time to visit China. Full stop. Perfect conditions to experience Yunnan province away from the bustling crowds. Trek through sub-tropical forests, tea plantations and stay in ethnic villages for an utterly absorbing pre-festive escape.

Click here to trek through secret China

Cuba – Havana

You want to leave the dark days and cold weather behind for a week or two right? One answer. Cuba. Experience the infectious soul of Havana before topping up on a much needed dose of vitamin D on its pristine beaches. A tropical paradise out of the cold. 

Click here to escape to the real Cuba

hurry... this one's sizzling hot

Two hot little tips for a sizzling hot city:

Firstly, one of the most incredible flight deals we’ve had in a long time. Book your return flight to Buenos Aires before February 9^th 2009 and it’ll cost you just £398 return including all taxes (normally prices are in the region of £800).

So, our logic is when you’ve bagged a great deal on your flight, why not treat yourself? Which brings us on to our second piece of news: the official opening of Francis Ford Copolla’s achingly hip property in Palermo Soho, one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. We can hire the residence out for you partially or exclusively and, trust us, this is the perfect urban hideaway for a dose of A-list privacy and service.

Boasting three levels of gardens, a solar-heated pool, an outdoor kitchen and parilla, and a beautiful terrace surrounded by plants of all kinds, it is the perfect hidden paradise to get a fresh perspective. In fact, Francis Ford Coppola stays here while he writes as he finds it an inspiring atmosphere in which to live and work (not to mention the fantastic library of wines which adds to the enchantment). And it is walking distance to this city's hip fashion and design boutiques, craft fairs and abundant street culture.

Add in the smattering of haute cuisine and phenomenal nightlife and you’ve got yourself one hell of a holiday. Traditional barbeque restaurants serve tender, succulent beef from cattle ranged on the vast grassy pampas; but you are just as likely to want to pick up the ubiquitous street snack, empanadas (sort of like a mini calzone stuffed with all sorts of delicious fillings). At night this area comes to life with countless bars and restaurants hidden down its quiet residential streets.

Errr….So what are you waiting for?

SSL

kasbah in the sky

So, we’re bespoke. That means that whatever you’re looking for, we pride ourselves on finding you the perfect solution. It also means that even if you don’t find a particular trip on our website, we’ll still find it for you. Case in point – Bab Ourika. For those of you who didn’t see the Sunday Times travel section at the weekend, Susan d’Arcy wrote a winning review of our newest find – a glorious new Kasbah retreat called Bab Ourika located at the gateways to the Atlas Mountains. And it seems to have struck a cord as we have already had a several requests. Here are a few photos to whet your appetite; just drop us a line if you’d like to find out more.

SSL

heads up for valentine

For a Valentines weekend with a twist, consider Estonia. A drop dead gorgeous new property has just opened called Pädaste Manor, marooned on the unspoilt island of Muhu. We think it makes for a refreshing alternative to the Eiffel Tower.

A two-hour drive from Tallinn, this rustic manor is set in a remote spot overlooking a pristine Baltic beach. It is far-flung, but it certainly doesn’t compromise on chic design. In fact we are all out bowled over by this place: warm wooden floors, roaring fires, understated indigenous touches; all framed by magnificent views.

Take an island tour around dolomite caves or navigate the coastline by canoe. Back on dry land there are 12^th-century fortresses to explore, Juniper forests to horse ride through, and frosted landscapes to snow-shoe across. Black Tomato can also hook you up with a local lady called Leida who will teach you the old-fashioned way of baking dark Muhu bread in a woodfired oven. Afterwards kick back with some warm bread and a shot of vodka, share a Muhu bath, or watch a film in the manor’s private cinema.

Beats a box of chocolates.

SSL

motorcycle diaries: peru

 
Hi, I’m Shaun and I am one of Black Tomato’s resident South America experts.

I think that Peru is one of the best places in the world for travelling by motorbike. I also think that it’s only once you get away from the tourist hubs like Cuzco that you get to experience the real Peru. There are lots of dogs trying to bite your heels as you ride past… lots of curious Llamas and Alpacas that pop up to have a look. It’s also magnificently quiet once you get away from the towns.

This photo brings back great memories. I decided to rent a bike and get away for a day to ride this road that I'd heard about that looks out over Mount Veronica (on the side of the Sacred Valley). Up this windy road you get to the “Abra Malaga” (Malaga Pass) where the views are amazing. Behind you are the Andean Mountains with its snow covered peaks, beneath you is the Sacred Valley which leads to Machu Picchu, and in front of you the views stretch over the foothills of Andes to the Amazon Jungle. The affect of the altitude, the silence and the huge condors flying overhead all combine to make you feel tiny…

Locals still live in small stone shelters and huts and wear handmade traditional clothing and, best of all, they love to stop and chat. I remember sitting there for quite some time talking to a local “Campesino” about what life is like for him, his family and his animals. Love that country….

SB

chico, chico, venga, venga!

Hi, I’m Charlotte. I’m the newest Black Tomato intern and I’ve been set a pretty fun task: brainstorming ways to keep you happy. Good huh? 2009 is all about giving our clients a lovely personal service, with lots of cutting-edge travel inspiration and money-can’t-buy perks. I’ve been thinking up creative ways to get this message across so hopefully we’ll inspire you to keep popping in for more chats when you fancy a break. It got me thinking of my recent time in Bolivia and how the locals would keep their clientele happy. Basically, it was all down to the fresh fruit salads. I just kept going back for more…

There was a fascinating mix of busy streets, sprawling with huge quantities of fresh bread rolls, herbal remedies, coca leaves in small mounds on the pavement; contrasting with the fresh tastes of a bowl of the most delicious strawberries, mangos, pineapples, papayas, bananas and grapes I’ve ever tasted. (Not forgetting the optional yoghurt, chocolate and quinoa sprinkles).

A moment of bliss on the chaotic streets of La Paz market.

It was simple as a tourist. A few words was all it took: “ensalada de fruta, por favour,” and the lady, towering high above from behind her stall, would silently chop up all the fruits packed tightly around her. The only time she would break her silence was to call out to eager looking passers-by – she was one of six fruit stalls you see, all set in a row. This was a cue for all the ladies to pipe up, shouting, “Chico, chico, venga, venga!” She’d continue peeling, cutting and beckoning out to people; sometimes winning over customers, sometimes losing to her rivals.

Besides their fantastic fruit salads, these women whipped up a mean smoothie – a myriad of delicious cocktails, sometimes mixed with milk, yoghurt or water. I’d sit on a bench placed outside the stall, looking out into the chaos. Women carrying large colourful bundles on their backs with children dragging behind; men blending into the background. That’s La Paz.

On my return home I reluctantly accepted that there’d be no more outdoor fruit salad stalls with unwashed, deliciously ripe fruit; instead I’d have to settle for the clinical and carefully wrapped fruit salads from the ever-multiplying chains. That is certainly why travelling makes a nice change. And for me, the kaleidoscope of tastes and smells I remember from that perfect La Paz fruit salad is a great metaphor for what Black Tomato aim to deliver to clients, and what we hope will keep you coming back!

CW

the black tomato 2009 travel forecast (happy new year!)

 
So it’s a brand new year, and here at Black Tomato we’re going against the grain of economic gloom and doom and are willing to wager it’s going to be a fantastically exciting 2009. Despite the credit crunch, the signs are surprisingly healthy for high-end travel compared with other industries. It appears that travel is one of the last pleasures we are willing to forego and thank goodness for that because nothing beats a bit of travel therapy to cheer us up. And more good news is that we are finally seeing higher-end, boutique hotels open up in off-the-beaten-track places, so we can combine true adventure trips with an enticing dose of luxury.

Up our sleeves this year Black Tomato have some creative adventures with an ‘educational’ twist, and we’ll be incorporating even more unique and inspirational extras with all of our trips. As always, we’ll be focusing on delivering a personalised ‘concierge’ style of service to make your trips extra special, helping you to weed out the tourist traps and get straight to the heart of the local culture.

Our new year’s mantra is: learn new things about yourself and the world around you, rediscover your joie de vivre and follow your instincts… after all, impulsive actions are often the most enriching. We recommend injecting some light into this time of doom and gloom: jump on a train or plane, head off in a new direction and discover something new. Invigorate yourself with a totally random experience, you’ll come back with a great story and a refreshed outlook on life.

Here’s a bit of inspiration for 2009 – have a good one!

Top 5 “must-see” 2009 destinations
1)     Mongolia
2)     Uruguay
3)     Socotra, Yemen
4)     Galapagos
5)     Bhutan

Top 5 “must-do” 2009 experiences
1)     Skydiving over Everest
2)     Gorilla and game safari in Uganda
3)     Hiking the Black Cat trail in Papua New Guinea
4)     Enfield motor biking through Ladakh, northern India
5)     The Lake of Stars music festival in Malawi

SSL

the world’s first refrigerated beach

 
Is this the world’s coolest beach? Competition to please the international elite is really hotting up… or in this case, cooling down.

Already home to the world’s first seven-star hotel and with the worlds highest building in construction, you would think Dubai has had its fair share of world firsts. Evidently not. Versace is set to create the world’s first refrigerated beach. With summer temperatures reaching a skin blistering 50 degrees, the beach will be designed and controlled with underground pipes, so that top paying guests will be able to walk across the sand without scorching their feet. The swimming pool will be refrigerated and there's even proposals for giant fans, creating a refreshing light breeze while soaking up some Middle Eastern rays. Needless to say, the idea has not gone down well with environmentalists. 

A true desire of the rich, or just a creative way of spending a lot of money? This seems like another marmite moment from the intriguing bubble world of Dubai - love it or hate it, it’s hard to knock their willingness to try to please at any cost. 

JG

extreme dream

Some people’s idea of the perfect holiday involves having a beer in one hand, soft sand between the toes, close proximity to a clear blue pool of water – preferably all mixed in with a good dose of five-star pampering.

Dean Karnazes however needs only his running shoes, backpack, and the amazing landscapes he runs through. Think of a hybrid of Bear Grylls and Haile Gebrselassie – and you have something like Dean Karnazes. He has run marathons in the searing heat of the Gobi, Atacama and Sahara Deserts and also braved the -129 degree Fahrenheit temperatures of Antarctica’s ice deserts. So what’s next? 50 marathons in 50 American States in 50 days. We think this is an amazing way to see the world.

So if, like me, you are now feeling extremely lazy, and are inspired to follow in Dean’s footsteps on your next trip, we can tailor make an extreme adventure with an action packed itinerary. But if that sounds like too much hard work, you could always see the Atacama Desert in Chile from the comfort of The Explora Hotel de Larache. We like to cover every eventuality here at Black Tomato.

HP

beijing winter garden lounge nights

For an intriguing peek into Chinese art, cinema and Beijing’s beautiful Botanic Gardens, we recommend a trip to west London. The Louise Blouin Institute is featuring a solo exhibition of the renowned contemporary Chinese artist Wang Guangyi from 17 October to 1 March 2009. Part of the gallery’s ‘Culture Beyond Borders’ series, the exhibition will include an installation of life-size sculptures that depict Cold War preparedness, a large-scale twelve-panel mural and a series of watercolours. The gallery is also staging various lectures, workshops and music recitals. We are particularly keen to pop along to their dreamy ‘Beijing Winter Garden Lounge Nights’, taking place from 6-9pm on Thursday 4, 11 & 18 December. Tickets cost £5 and there will be screenings of Chinese film masterpieces, electronica music, live Guqin performances, and 1930s Chinese film and garden photography.

Inspired? We thought so. See the real thing with a trip to Beijing’s Forbidden City and Botanic Gardens, followed by a retreat to the beautiful mountainous landscapes that have inspired artists for millennia. 

SSL

a burning secret

 ‘Volcano tourism’ is on the up. Mount Etna is at its most active in years, prompting a recent influx of tourists to the region. Etna is Sicily’s most famous volcano – if not the world’s – but not many people realise that the Aeolian arch stretches much further north, encompassing the island of Vulcano, with its bubbling hot springs, and the remote island volcano of Stromboli. If you ask us, it’s Stromboli that holds the most magic and this untouched little speck of an island, known locally as “the wild one”, is fast becoming our new secret adventure retreat. They say (half jokingly) that if you don’t climb the volcano, you won’t be invited back. Trust us, ‘Strombolian eruptions’ have to be seen to be believed: florescent magma shoots up like fireworks every 20 minutes hundreds of feet high, accompanied by an almighty roaring sound. The hike takes roughly 5 hours: 2 hours climb, 1 hour at the crater and 2 hours to descend. The rest of the time you can spend your days snorkelling off shimmery black coves, eating the freshest of seafood, or sailing around the six other Aeolian Islands. Let’s just call it our hot little secret.

SSL

china’s chic hotels

We’re excited. We love a bit of one-upmanship, and when it comes to hotels, no one does it better than China – particularly when it’s competing with itself. What’s not to like when it means that hotel standards are skyrocketing? There are some fantastically swish, ambitiously designed hotels cropping up – each seemingly more chic than the last.

We love the Intercontinental in Hong Kong for its super views, and you can’t beat the LKF Hotel’s hip location (in Lan Kwai Fong). One of our favourites is the new W Hotel. It’s a skyscraper of splendour in down and dirty west Kowloon, and it’s so hot it hurts. It has sizzling restaurants, sensual lounges and a jaw-droppingly sexy pool 700 feet above street level. We’ve been swooning over this newest addition to the W chain since its recent launch. That is until we got distracted by Shanghai’s new Park Hyatt.

The buzz about this hotel has been pretty electric. With the help of computer graphics we were kept tantalised by its superimposed image – an architectural innovation towering over Shanghai – making it an icon before construction even began. Commandeering the top 36 stories of Shanghai’s cloud-skimming Jin Mao Tower, you can literally sightsee from your king-size bed in the world’s highest hotel room.

Looking forward, the big news for Chinese hotels is the new Aman in Beijing, which is going to be Aman’s first foray into China. It'll be part of the Summer Palace complex and is going to be THE hot opening for 2009. We’re also looking forward to checking out the new Mandarin Oriental and Banyan Tree launching on Hainan Island. Back in Hong Kong, the city’s grand old dame, The Ritz Carlton, is set for a mother of a makeover when she decamps from downtown to Kowloon. We’re not sure how we feel about this one. There was something familiar about the elegantly petite Ritz as she stood, dwarfed by the younger, flashier hotels dominating the skyline. Chances are, though, we’ll be won over by her glitzy reincarnation when she opens her doors in 2010.

SSL

still a kid at heart

Whether it’s an excuse to unveil our best Amy Winehouse impression, come up with an innovative way to become the world’s most successful ‘chick magnet’ (hint: dress all in black and stick miniature little yellow chicks all over you – genius, right?) or just let loose and stuff your gob with limitless amounts of candy, Halloween has got to be one of our favourite holidays. Let’s be honest, what’s not to like? You get to pretend to be someone you’re not; indulge in all the naughtiness you steer clear of on most diet days; and simply have fun. The biggest celebrations take place in Mexico where the annual Dia de los Muertos (the Day of the Dead) festival starts tomorrow. Skeleton-filled street festivals, raucous parades and gift giving commemorate those who have passed in a joyous, celebratory way. Whatever your chosen hallow’s eve pursuit – we wish you a very happy one.

TM

walking on the wild side (or not)

We like to keep an ear to the ground here at Black Tomato and recently we've noticed something: we might be top of the food chain but, just occasionally, other predators like to put us in our place.

 

Animals to avoid

The unfortunate news that a British man was gobbled up by 50-year-old Australian Charlie - no, not an inbred Aussie cannibal, but a very hungry crocodile - reminded us that you don't need to be dinner to remember how vulnerable we can be. So, for a truly humbling experience, but one that won’t leave you in little pieces, why not get inside the jaws of Jaws with our South African shark diving experience?

Animals you won't have to avoid anymore

Venice city council have proudly announced a great victory at the battle of San Marco. They’ve won their crusade against the pigeons! By banning illicit feed vendors from their seedy hangouts around the canals and under bridges, Venetians have forced the pesky vermin to seek their grub elsewhere. So, if twitching is your thing, forget Venice. Why not try Peru where the 3-metre Andean condor will be hard to miss. This majestic bird’s favourite food is cattle, so it might be an idea to leave the leather coat behind.

Animals you won’t want to avoid

Now we don't want to scare you, but on our new Zambia walking safari, 'Walking on the Wild Side’, there won't be anything between you and the razor sharp teeth of the King of Jungle - except a few meters of ground and a trained expert with a 2:2 rifle. This is as dangerously close to Africa’s most efficient predator as it is possible to get, but we guarantee you’ll want to get closer.

FD

the chilli hunter reporting from the road to cayo levisa

We set off early to Cayo Levisa, a tropical island off the North West coast of Cuba. Travelling out of Havana along a rather bumpy autopista (motorway) with no central reservation or road markings, we were soon dodging everything from 1950s American cars and trucks, 1970s Russian Ladas, horse drawn carts and even the odd stray cow. But in Cuba if anyone has the priority on the road it's the stray cows. Because if you're not careful you could find yourself doing 24 years in jail for trying to produce your own beef burgers on the road...  

We turn off onto smaller roads and whilst our driver skilfully navigates pot holes big enough to be classified as caves, we keep our cool and admire the jungle and surprisingly mountainous interior. Security check points occasionally slow our progress but it gives us the chance to check out the sugar cane fields, coffee bushes and banana trees that line our route.

A quick ferry ride and we are soon settling into our thatched sea front cottage (one of only 22 on the whole island). It’s not long before we venture out to explore what the surrounding beaches have to offer. And a romantic dinner at sunset completes our practically perfect day.

IB

The Black Tomato Chilli Hunter

the chilli hunter reporting from havana (part 2)

The whole world is a stage and we are but actors upon it...

Again living up to the stereotypes of Cuba we climb into a sea blue 1955 Chevrolet to cruise the larger area of Havana . In Revolution Square banners are being unfurled in preparation for Workers Day – something our tour guide describes as ‘a good party interrupted by long speeches’.

We stop for lunch at Hotel Saratoga's roof top terrace over looking Habana Veja (the old town) and the harbour. And the fresh sea air inspires me to order lobster which, at the equivalent of £13, seems excellent value. The afternoon brings our final salsa lesson and though we complete a routine involving an impressive number of turns and whirls I am certainly not a natural.

In the evening we reserve a table at the Tropicana club which typifies everything I have seen of Havana so far: music, dancing and glamour from years gone by. Show girls hand out cigars and flowers and waiters in dinner suits serve champagne and Havana club rum. The show itself probably hasn’t changed much since the clubs inception in 1938 (part of a Mafia plan to make Havana the Vegas of the Caribbean ). Gaudy costumes, gymnastic feats and singers with a fondness for brylcreem – all fabulous if ridiculously over the top. And though it’s a tourist trap, it’s also a brilliant, unique experience. So go for the show and the dazzling kitsch factor.

IB
Black Tomato Chilli Hunter

live from chile

On Monday we sent GQ.com editor, Camilla McPhee, on what we know will be one of the most amazing trips of her life. Camilla’s 10 day trip to Chile is one of the main features of the GQ website for the upcoming month and we’re very excited that she will be blogging on our site as she enjoys the Santiago nightlife, sips her way through the Viña Matetic winery, tours around the Venice of South America, and dries off in the Atacama Desert with horse back riding and high mountain climbing. Read on for Camilla’s first entry hot off the press. And watch this space for more of Camilla’s wonderful Chilean adventure.

Thursday 24th January - arriving in Santiago

If, like me, there is absolutely no chance of you ever being described as “oudoorsy”, then you are in for one hell of a shock should you touch down at the airport in Santiago, Chile. For, from the immigration queues to the arrivals hall, the place is absolutely teeming with scores of enthusiastic hikers (what do you call such a group? A toggle, perhaps?), all gaitered up and ready for two weeks of exertion and sweating in Patagonia. Now, of course I do admire the jolly chaps and their love of the great outdoors, I’m just not entirely sure that you have to actually travel in all your outdoor gear – boots, thick socks, trousers that miraculously turn into shorts (ingenious in the hills, a touch ridiculous on an over-aircon’d and cramped flight from Heathrow). Having said that, however, in preparation for my trip out here, I did invest in a small rucksack so I am starting to feel part of the outdoors-traveller set. Only problem is, there are so many pockets and zips and “special areas” in the rucksack, I can’t find anything in it. I haven’t seen my guidebook for days and all I find when I reach in is a packet of melted Maltesers and some lip balm. So much for being practical.

CM

http://www.gqmagazine.co.uk/Blog/

dust off your skis: it’s christmas come early for powder-fiends

Mince pies and mulled wine aside, we love Christmas for one simple reason: it’s time to hit the slopes. So imagine our joy when we discovered that resorts in Europe and beyond are firing up the lifts early so tourists can enjoy unprecedented levels of November snow.

Only last week, a friendly blizzard dumped over a metre of powder onto the Alps, prompting last year’s disappointed skiers to flock to their favourite destinations six weeks before the official season kicks-off. We’ve heard on the grapevine that Zermatt, Tignes and Verbier are among the early openers, having recorded levels of snow not seen this early since 1956.

One of our favourite resorts, in Japan’s Hakuba Valley, is in on the action too. With an average snowfall of 12m a year and the snowflakes falling as we speak, it’s far less prone to the ups and downs of Western weather. Besides, you just can’t beat a hot sake après-ski and a glimpse of the famous snow monkeys.

http://www.blacktomato.co.uk/experiences/action/sushi%2c+sake+and+the+slopes/details

LT

love is in the air

One of my favourite things about working in travel is all the lovely people we get to know whilst working on what to do with their limited time off.  From the short sharp bursts of a long weekend, to the memorable and once in a lifetime honeymoon, it is always fun fulfilling someone's holiday dreams.  The satisfaction you get when they come back beaming and totally refreshed is to say the least, highly rewarding.

One of my happiest clients recently had asked for some help planning a weekend break with a special twist.  He wanted to take his girlfriend away to pop the question!  We worked through a few destinations and eventually settled on Italy. Where could be more perfect than the stunning and very romantic "La Bandita" near Sien. This beautiful, recently opened rural retreat has proved to be one of the best kept secrets of the summer and I was only too happy to share it with someone on a very special quest.

For the big moment my clients set off on a beautiful stroll through the vineyards and olive groves with extensive views over the picturesque Tuscan Hills.  Anywhere along this walk would be have been perfect, but the owner (John Voigtman) wanted to make it totally unique.  Their walk led them up to an old chapel where they stumbled across an exquisite picnic which had been freshly prepared with all the trimmings and of course the chilled champagne ready to pop.

I was delighted to find the following email in my Inbox this morning: "We have just returned from 'La Bandita' as an engaged couple!!  I wanted to let you know that the holiday could not have been more perfect, the location, the people and La Bandita delivered above and beyond our wildest expectations."  I have plenty more of these hidden gems up my sleeve and look forward to sharing them with you.

SK

to pack…or not to pack

Blog by Camilla McPhie, Editor of GQ.COM, http://www.gqmagazine.co.uk /

With easyJet charging £2 for every piece of luggage checked into the hold from October, and baggage handlers dumping mountains of unclaimed baggage in second-hand shops, it’s time to call a moratorium on over-packing. Unless you’re emigrating, are a student on your way to a foreign university, or accompanying Bear Grylls and his charcoal and smoke machine on another “adventure” there is absolutely no need to take more than can be fitted into a 20-inch wheelie suitcase (and we’ll get onto the “wheelie” part in a minute).

Contrary to popular belief, over-packing is not gender-specific. Admittedly, women are a lot more vocal when defending their decision to bring a different pair of shoes for each day away (“But I might be in a pony-skin kitten heel sort of mood!”) but I know just as many men who think it’s perfectly normal to take seven identical white T-shirts, two pairs of sunglasses, four DVDs and Ian Rankin’s last two Rebus hardbacks – on a skiing holiday.

Of course, I haven’t always been the Zen Mistress Of Light Luggage. But after dragging a spine-cripplingly heavy suitcase around New Zealand for two weeks (I even packed an umbrella, for lord’s sake), I came to the conclusion that a) most hotels have heard of shampoo; b) law of averages suggests that if I take four pairs of shoes, I only wear two; and c) the less I pack on the way out, the more duty free and eco-aware ethnic goods I can bring back. So my holiday kit is all flip-flops and roll-into-nothing kaftans. Sort of.

Now, onto the “wheelie” part. While I have just spent the above 200 words in praise of the travelling hostess trolley (mine’s a Tumi LXT Expandable Adventure), I need to lay down a few rules.

1. Your case should measure no more than 20 inches. Any bigger and it would be a trunk. But with wheels.
2. Should you find yourself trailing a wheelie in a crowded environment, do not stop at the bottom of escalators to get the handle out.
3. Do not stop to look for directions or signposts with said wheelie fully extended behind you.
4. Do not travel in rush hour with wheels unless you don’t know where you’re going.
5. Always apologise if you run over someone’s foot.
6. If you’re not that humble, pretend you’re a tourist and snarl.
7. That said, children with their very own wheelies are exempt from all of the above. Too young to realise that hiring a porter is a luxury to which we all should aspire, as they’ve only packed two crayons, a packet of Haribos and half a Barbie, you won’t even blink should the spacially unaware little tikes run over your toes.

Camilla McPhie is Editor of GQ.com

www.gq.com

Next week: What to take on board for a long-haul flight…

a man, a plan, a canal...

Panama. And it’s where I have just come back from on a scouting trip for Black Tomato.

The verdict? It has made the cut on future destination selection here by a country mile and in my eyes is going to become a ‘must visit’ for the discerning traveller over the next couple of years.

A great combination that bucks the pre-conceptions held by most friends who I told about the trip before I went. “Oh great. seeing the canal then?”. Well, yes, there is the canal, and what an amazing site it is – but the amount of tropical islands located in it along with the regular site of crocodiles and turtles swimming by the boat I was travelling in wasn’t what I had expected.

Best part? Hire an island in the canal for a day of barbies and cold beers (go for one of the local brands – Balboa’s great) before heading back into the colonial quarter of Panama city for a night of jazz bars and moody underground clubs and restaurants. Atmospheric, distinctive and far removed from any cookie cutter nightclub and bar that you will find in many other cities. Panama has a style of its own, the people are incredibly welcoming and in my opinion will be at the top of many holiday wish lists by the end of the year. We already know about the gorgeous islands of the San Blas, but there are so many other gems to be unravelled in the country. From the other star island attraction of the Bocas del Toro archipelago to the beautiful countryside surrounding inland towns such as El Valle.

We are working up our dream experience for Panama at the moment and expect to see it on the site soon. Me? I can’t wait to get back there. I have just booked a beach house for some friends on the Pacific coast of the country for a Christmas break and just had the invite to join them. An easy decision to make….

TM

Rio Chagres, Panama

out of africa...

So here I am in Kilimanjaro waiting for my flight back to the UK. Where better place to finish such a fantastic trip. The rainy season is over and the skies have cleared, at last I get to see the highest point in Africa. It is spectacular. And so is the country that it belongs to; Tanzania. Over the last ten days I have been fortunate to visit some of Africa's most remote and truly unique camps. I really feel that I have experienced a taste of the wild Africa. Sleeping in tents, please do not imagine basic as they were far from that, think high-end, luxury camping with hot showers, king-size beds, crisp linen and heavy blankets. It's amazing how quickly you adjust from power shower to bush shower. I have gradually got used to the noises of sleeping in the bush with lions roaring, hippos grunting and warthogs snorting, all sound far too close when there is only a sheet of fabric between you. How incredible to unzip your tent in the morning to find fresh leopard tracks up to your water bowl.

To experience some of this unspoiled wilderness head to Katavi National Park in Western Tanzania. Here you will find expansive plains broken only by small seasonal lakes and the rapidly drying Katuma River. Home to huge populations of hippos, crocs and the Big Five, it is also where you will find the exclusive Chada Katavi Camp www.chada-katavi.com. Offering the most incredible views over the plains, its extremely special team of guides and camp staff create a very rustic and intimate bush experience. 

For those of you who need further inspiration, I will be back in the office tomorrow with my 400 photos, but for now have a look at another of my new favourite places; Greystoke Mahale www.greystoke-mahale.com. Where the rainforest meets freshwater lake. It really is an exotic and entirely remote paradise. No cars for sixty miles and about six hours travelling time from Arusha. Your guides will take you trekking in the Mountains to visit the fascinating population of habituated chimpanzees, or sailing on the camp's 50ft dhow across Lake Tanganyika, the world's second deepest lake. Stop off for a swim in the gin-clear waters, or throw over the line and catch your fish for dinner. Keep scouting for hippos, crocs and water cobras, a gentle reminder that this is real Africa and I am just a city girl visiting their inspiring wilderness.

SK

passage to india…

Passport, Money, Tickets…check!

Yes, the time has come for me to start my journey to India.  As I got out my dusty back pack last night it brought back all the fond memories we have shared and the bubbly, nervous, exciting jitters that travel brings started to come alive in my stomach.

In only a few hours I will head off to Heathrow airport and catch my flight to Delhi to start my 10 day taster of this extremely popular country.  My journey will start with a trip into the Himalayas, walking through the Himalayan foothills and villages I will get a true feel for rural life, I will then visit the new exclusive Himalayan Retreat 360 Leti, a contemporary luxury camp to experience the majestic scenery and pure feeling of mind, body and soul rejuvenation – just what you need coming form London

Next it’s the cities, I will have fleeting visits to Delhi, Udaipur and Jaipur where I have heard the shopping is great and the sights go beyond all expectations.  My only wish as I embark on my adventure and the thought of my trip for the next 10 days becomes a reality is to pack a few people in my back pack to share the experience with (sadly there is no room)…I only hope my words will do it justice…

AE

skywalks and skiing in japan

Uncovered destinations, travel trends, and funky new products- it’s hard to keep up with everything that’s going on in the travel industry these days. Our new biweekly Current Affairs column will highlight the most interesting news and trends in the industry, whether it’s a hot new region in southern Italy or an interesting airline concept. We will scan the newspapers and the best travel sites from around the world to bring you a short (and we promise, sassy) round-up of the most compelling travel news stories that people are talking about. Enjoy, and if you spot a trend that you feel we have overlooked please email us on info@blacktomato.co.uk.

Grand Views

This one is not for the faint of heart, or for those who suffer from vertigo. The brand new, multi-million pound Skywalk recently opened up in the Grand Canyon. This u-shaped steel-reinforced walkway is 70ft long and just four inches thick. It allows tourists to walk out over the Grand Canyon and peer down- a very long way down. The walkway is suspended 4,000ft above the floor of the valley and the Colorado River. The project, of course, is not without its controversies and critics.

The Independent, BBC

Big in Japan

Think of Japan and “Lost in Translation” comes to mind, as well as geisha and harajuku girls (well, that’s what pops up in our minds). But how about skiing? We’re seeing a lot of articles saying that skiing in Japan is the next big thing. After all, Japan has hosted the Winter Olympics twice and has over 60 ski resorts. There’s also no shortage of snow- the Niseko resort consistently averages more than 45 feet of dry powder a year and stays open until the first week of May. Reading a positive ski story is a nice change to all the dire reports about the fate of European ski resorts.

CNN, The Scotsman

 

Dead Right

If you think that airline food and long delays is cause enough for grief, consider this. Last week passengers in the first-class section of British Airways were forced to sit next to a corpse for the duration of Delhi to London flight. We’re not making this up; an elderly woman died on a long haul flight and had to be put be in first-class because there was no other adequate room for her on the plane. Other passengers weren’t too pleased. Read more here: The Times