Dear Travel Friends:
Blizzards and Bliss. This month has provided stark contrasts; sunshine, sand, and snow. I appreciate the concerns expressed over the recent storms. We are fine with some damages to our coastal property. I was unwinding in Mexico with my daughters and my dear husband and son took the brunt of the work and stress during the intense high tides and winds. Thanks for your well wishes during the Nor'easter! Spring is on her way.
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English Gardens & Chelsea Flower Show
Our 2013 English Garden Tour has one unexpected space remaining due to a recent cancellation. I need your reservation ASAP if you wish to join us. This trip has been sold out since November so this is an opportune time to send in your reservation. Always a favorite, England is glorious in May and our itinerary is stellar. Imagine yourself wandering the gardens of Vita Sackville-West at Sissinghurst, one of the worlds most loved, or meandering amidst the world class Chelsea Flower Show exhibits. Plan to sipp a Pimms with the Brits and of course enjoy Afternoon Tea. This space will fill quickly.
English Garden Tour Reservations >>
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Is Turkey Safe? Is Travel Safe for Women?
Lots of news lately about women traveling and safety. Thought I would share my perspective. Generally I am traveling solo before and after each trip we offer. I am doing research, personal travel and exploring. I choose where I will stay thoughtfully and use taxis for return to the hotel when it's late. We may never know what happened to the woman from NYC who died in Turkey. There are many mysterious pieces to this sad puzzle. Yet, for the one woman whose unfortunate fate is in the news, hundreds of women are traveling for work and pleasure each day. Of course we are savvy. We enjoy the company of others and are street smart wherever we are. Those who love to travel cannot let random acts of senseless violence keep us home or away from places we wish to explore. I feel as safe in Turkey as I do in New York, London or Boston. In fact, Turkey is perhaps safer than getting in your car and driving somewhere if you check statistics. Our autumn trip to Turkey is spectacular and you will at once feel comfortable in this land of hospitality amidst some of the friendliest people ever.
 Our trip begins in the dazzling city of Istanbul and continues to the magical Capadoccia and onward to historical Ephesus and then ends on the sparkling coast in Bodrum. You will savour the luxury of our own full time private guide and private driver throughout this tour. You can experience the Ottoman influence in restaurants that are now featuring old Ottoman recipes. You will always remember the wonderland that is Capadoccia. Walking the sacred grounds of Ephesus is inspirational and for many a highlight. If Turkey is on your bucket list, I hope you will join me and if it isn't, I encourage you to take a peek at a country that is fascinating, beautiful and one of the most hospitable. Treasures of Turkey Details >> |
What's for Dinner?
When we are touring we sample a variety of places to eat. Culinary experiences add to traveling well. Some of you already know how much I favour local smaller places with good food. We can stop at a Michelin star or a local gem not yet on the evolving foodie lists. Trying the region's favorites or specialties is another way to learn more about where we are traveling. Must admit, I have not yet been brave enough to order the Pigeon in London and, in Wyoming after seeing the elk running in the fields, I couldn't order it grilled. In Turkey, it was fun to sample the dolmas everywhere and see just how many different versions we could try. If you are a fish lover, vegetarian, or like your steak, the dining choices we find are flavorful. You choose whatever you wish when we include lunch or dinner, we don't limit you to prescribed choices like some tour companies. There are no buffets on our trips except the hearty breakfasts in places like Italy or Turkey where breakfast truly is laid out for royalty.
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Kind Words
On Valentine's Day, I received a memorable email from a traveler on our recent Dominica trip. I am sharing some excerpts here. Serendipity Traveler is so much more than a business. Friendships are made and heartfelt memories linger. We leave husbands, significant others, friends, and family behind and share the journey of women traveling together in beautiful places around the world.
Dear Peggy,
I have been of course thinking of you-:). Thank you with all my heart for the exquisite Gaelic Blessing. I still go to sleep with the sweet sweet sounds of the Dominica night. Thank you for a most perfect in every way trip.
With love W
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Wyoming
Our Walking in Wyoming experience begins on the first day of summer. Hopefully the heavy snowfall which started early last autumn will have melted in time for the wildflowers to begin blooming. This trip is for women who enjoy the spectacular mountains and outdoors. The Grand Tetons are majestic and the wildlife more than entertaining. If you haven't yet met a bison...it's time! We usually reserve The Hotel Terra which again received the Conde Naste Traveler top 100 hotels of the world award again. Located in Teton Village, it is delightfully situated for exploring the wilderness, wildlife, and wildflowers of The Tetons. If you want to plunk yourself in majestic beauty for a week, make your reservation now for this trip. Reservations are closing soon, please send yours along.
Details Wyoming >>
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Peek at where we stay in Ballyvaughan and then reserve your Ireland trip. I visited the country manor house called Gregan's Castle a few years ago when researching and prepping for our Ireland trip. Always looking for something a bit special, out of the ordinary, and well perched for exploring, I scour the books, read lots of recommends and then trot to see for myself if it's what I want for us. Wherever we go you can trust the research, efforts, and connections that are woven together to make your trip special.
Ireland details >>
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Travel is a time for you to gather memories that linger long after the plane ride home.
Life is Short Travel Well!
Peggy
Serendipity Traveler |
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