004 Saltwater Guide.qxd - Frontiers Elegant Journeys
Transcription
004 Saltwater Guide.qxd - Frontiers Elegant Journeys
40th ANNIVERSARY It’s all about the experience NS South America Sojourns ■ Explore the Wonders of South America ■ page 2 40th Anniversary Year of Frontiers! FRONTIERS HAS SENT VALUED CLIENTS TO SOUTH AMERICA FOR OVER THREE DECADES TO EXPERIENCE THE VAST, VERDANT AMAZON JUNGLE IN THE NORTH “This is our second trip with TO THE FABLED PATAGONIA REGION IN THE SOUTH . . . the glittering cities and Frontiers, and we will book stylish beach resorts of the east to the rugged Andes west so rich with Indian cul- again. Their ultimate knowledge of lodges shows in their perfect matches with clients. Their local knowl- tural heritage. Travelers of all ages will find something exciting to do any time of the year. edge makes traveling through Frontiers a joy.” K.J. – Duxbury, MA Whether you want to extend a sporting vacation or a business trip, explore one country or a region in depth, or plan a grand circle of South America with your personal interests and objectives in mind, let Frontiers bring out the very best of South America for you, your special friends, and your family. NS Why Travel to South America with Frontiers... ■ Over 3 decades of experience in South America. ■ Our destination knowledge is unparalleled. ■ We can coordinate travel logistics, compare and contrast locations, and offer a proposed itinerary based on your specific objectives, interests and budget. ■ Provide outstanding service and great value, recognizing that this is an investment of valuable time. ■ Find the most expeditious and competitive air travel options, explain cost factors of traveling on group vs. independent basis, and explore all resources available to us. If you yearn to learn to tango, take a polo lesson, drive an antique car, rappel, climb a volcano, raft on Class III or IV rivers, walk on a glacier, ski in July, meet your professional counterpart, blend your own barrel of wine, visit a live archaeological site, ■ Our personal contacts and long-standing relationships, with spend an afternoon with a silversmith or world-renowned their local knowledge, insider access and expertise, will painter . . . let us introduce you to the people who can make it enhance your experience immensely, provide exceptional guide magically happen. Of course, we can also combine amazing fly services, and efficiently handle all your arrangements. fishing on pristine rivers in Chile and Argentina. NS Wonderful Wines of South America Hosted by Mike and Susie Fitzgerald April 15-29, 2009 Join Frontiers’ founders and co-owners on a tailor-made itinerary with a “lighthearted” approach, spotlighting the much-touted wines of Chile and Argentina. Our roots in South America span over three decades, and we’ve developed a network of outstanding local contacts who can open doors to private estancias and wineries, guides who will enlighten us about these special wines and create memorable moments, all amidst a backdrop of some of the most spectacular natural scenery in the world. We’ll focus on Chile’s Colchagua Valley, Argentina’s Mendoza region, and the sparkling capital cities of Santiago and Buenos Aires. The finest accommodations will feature in this private departure together with gourmet meals complemented by superb wines and local entertainment. Extend your stay either before or after the tour. Call to request a detailed itinerary and join us as we celebrate our 40th Frontiers year. Call Frontiers 1-800-245-1950 • +44 (0)1285 741340 in Europe • www.frontierstravel.com page 3 61478.1aa.qxd:EWS 2007 brochure.qxd 9/5/08 6:01 PM Page 4 page 4 NS Santiago Santiago, a city rich in historical and cultural traditions, is a great place to tune in to the flavor of the country before heading off to explore the rest of this NS Chile 2,000-mile ribbon of land on the Pacific coastline. Spanish colonial architecture is the major motif of the city, and many of Santiago’s massive structures have battled natural disasters to survive into the 21st century. The 5-star Ritz-Carlton Hotel is located in the refined Las Condes area within easy walking distance of great restaurants and upscale boutiques. Sightseeing Options Winery Options Visit the Pre-Columbian Museum and the Plaza de Armas, which is flanked by Visit wineries in the Maipo Valley south of Santiago featur- a number of historical buildings such as ing the Cousiño Macul, the country’s oldest vineyard (1870), the city’s storied Cathedral, the Gothic and Santa Rita Winery with lunch at Casa Real. Another 19th-century wrought iron Central option is the quaint town of Santa Cruz in the picturesque Market building, the handicraft village of Colchagua Valley, a three-hour drive Los Dominicos, and the neoclassical La from Santiago through the heart of Moneda Palace. Then proceed to San the wine country. Stay at the colo- Cristóbal Hill, a beautiful park at the foot nial-style Hotel Santa Cruz Plaza and of the Andes, for spectacular panoramic visit the esteemed Colchagua views of the city. Museum on the property. Winery “must” stops include Viu Manent, Consider a full-day excursion to the col- Clos Apalta, Vina Neyen, Montes and orful port city of Valparaíso (the “San many others. Suggest a minimum of Francisco” of South America), which is 2 nights for the Colchagua Valley; perched on 40 hills and has been your stay will be personally declared a UNESCO site. Continue on to designed and accompanied by a Viña del Mar with its well-manicured knowledgeable, personable guide gardens and parks, and visit one of the throughout. vineyards in the Casablanca Valley en route back to Santiago. page 6 explora Patagonia Patagonia is a vast region at the southernmost tip of South America. At the forefront is Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park, encompassing approximately 600,000 acres and surrounded explora by the impressive Paine mountain range. Here amid glaciers, emerald lakes, mountain scapes, waterfalls and shining valleys, explora has redefined luxury with its 50-room Hotel Salto Chico, the perfect base from which to explore. Four and 6-night programs are offered October through April; more flexibility is available May through September during the Patagonia winter when the savviest of travelers will explora Atacama and intimate ambience during cool encounter a totally different experience Even the driest desert on earth is fertile desert evenings. The new open kitchen but with surprisingly mild weather. ground for a transformation. That’s what will offer guests captivating views of the Frontiers has pre-reserved space at guests can look forward to at Hotel de kitchen staff in action under direction of explora Patagonia in the most sought- Larache, the base of operations and Executive Chef Laurant Pascualetto. after prime weeks from December- The four existing pools will be main- March so call us now to make plans for tained, including one heated by solar the 2009-2010 season. accommodation for explora Atacama. Set in the moon-scaped Atacama Desert of northern Chile, the comfortable hotel is currently in the midst of an extensive interior and exterior renovation. Bright, airy and puristic, the new interior energy. Two of the hotel’s saunas will be transformed into Turkish baths with room for warm, hot and cooling water therapies. design of Hotel de Larache plays off the surrounding desert, with inviting spaces dressed up in light woods and slate flooring. The highlight is the addition of four new suites, which will bring the hotel’s room count to 50. Each suite will measure 535 square feet, with living The new Stella Observatory at explora Atacama is room, a balcony for soaking up striking the largest privately owned telescope in the world, and it is for the exclusive use of their guests. desert views, and fully equipped bathroom with two sinks, whirlpool, separate shower, WC, bidet and automatic lighting. The other guest rooms are in for remodeling as well, with contemporary furnishings from Switzerland and Spain complementing pieces of explora’s own design. Public area updates include new furnishings and fabrics, the addition of a new fireplace and private dining areas within the restaurant, assuring a warm “Far exceeding our expectations – the staff and guides at both Exploras are wonderful. Maurice (manager) at Atacama is superb!!” D.B. – Guilford, CT explora en Rapa Nui Rises on Easter Island Posada de Mike Rapu, explora’s new outpost on Easter Island, is situated on the island’s southern edge. Distinctively remote — approximately 3.5 miles from Hanga Roa, the only town on the island — the lodge faces the roaring Pacific Ocean and the ancient Rano Raraku Volcano, the birthplace of the island’s moai. The stylish, eye-catching lodge reflects the philosophy that has made explora one of the world’s most inspired travel concepts. As with all of the explora lodges, the accommodations far exceed expectations and set a new standard of luxury on the island. Each of the 30 guest rooms, including four suites, was designed for subtle comfort with a sitting area, a hydro-massage tub, and architectural accents constructed from indigenous materials. The glass-enclosed kitchen allows guests the opportunity to watch meal preparations. The Casa de Banos Hare Val — an outdoor area with pool, massage room and open-air Jacuzzis — invites you to unwind after a long day of exploration. Posada de Mike Rapu offers the greenest accommodation experience in Chile and South America. The property is in the midst of obtaining full LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, having recently reached “silver” level certification, with the hopes of a full-fledged “gold” later this year. Excursions are led by local bilingual guides who introduce you to this unique place of magnetism and mystery whose cultural origins remain unknown. This lodge is perfect as an add-on to explora en Atacama or explora en Patagonia and as a year-round, stand-alone adventure. Easter Island – An historical journey, a chance to learn of another culture and to walk the land of this marvelous island. R.A. – Schenectady, NY Frontiers has been recognized by explora as one of their top 20 business partners worldwide. Susie Gavlik just returned from explora Easter Island so can speak to you firsthand on her experience there as well as her visits to the other explora lodges. Please give her a call for availability and rates. Call Frontiers 1-800-245-1950 • +44 (0)1285 741340 in Europe • www.frontierstravel.com page 7 61478.1aa.qxd:EWS 2007 brochure.qxd 9/5/08 6:02 PM Page 8 page 8 Peru “Wonderful. Hit all highlights in time we had (which was perfect for us!). Definitely recommend going to Urumbamba and staying and going from there to Machu Picchu – allowed to get acclimated. Others stayed in Cusco and traveled back and forth. Hotels – outstanding. Thanks for a great trip!” J.S. – Shavertown, PA M/V Aqua Hidden Treasures of Peru In lieu of a lodge-based stay in the Boasting some of the most spectacular Peruvian Amazon, the 12-suite M/V scenery in South America, Peru’s out- Aqua is an entirely new concept and door pursuits and ancient ruins will one that will provide an unforgettable leave your heart pounding and your journey into a region previously seen by imagination soaring. It is a culturally only a privileged few. The year-round enriched country with many archaeo- voyages begin in the port city of Iquitos, logical treasures and human legacies. where you embark on 3-, 4- or 7-night itineraries. Highlights include visits to The highlights include the obvious — local villages, fishing for piranha, spot- Cusco, the former Incan capital; the lost ting pink dolphins and super-sized city of Machu Picchu; Lake Titicaca, the water lilies. Every voyage is uniquely world’s highest navigable lake straddling appealing as the changing seasons vary Peru and Bolivia; and the enigmatic the wildlife-viewing opportunities. Nazca Lines. But did you know that Peru’s Colca Canyon is twice as deep as With many of Peru’s natural wonders the Grand Canyon and offers one of the being nominated for the New7Wonders best condor-viewing opportunities any- of Nature, now is the perfect time to where in South America? Spend a few begin planning your dream trip to Peru days exploring the area from the Orient- as these hidden treasures will be Express Las Casitas del Colca, a haven secrets no more. of peace and tranquility in the heart of the Colca Canyon. Its 20 casitas are nestled perfectly into the landscape and designed with local elements in mind. Amenities include a private terrace, heated plunge pool, working fireplace, and sitting area. Las Casitas, Colca Canyon Call Frontiers 1-800-245-1950 • +44 (0)1285 741340 in Europe • www.frontierstravel.com page 9 page 10 Ecuador “We fell into a wonderfully active, informative exciting trip. We felt educated, informed, encouraged and always safe. We both just loved it.” D.H. – St. Louis, MO Arasha Napo Wildlife Center A Step into an Historical Past situated in the historic center. For those Tungurahua Volcano. Banos’s several Ecuador welcomes visitors with an array with more time to explore, continue attractions and activities include of vibrant indigenous cultures, well-pre- north to Otavalo, a large outdoor trade trekking, horseback riding, climbing, served colonial architecture, volcanic market that represents the very essence mountain biking, rafting, and its famous landscapes, dense rain forests and jun- of a traditional Andean community. You thermal hot springs. gles. Straddling the equator, Ecuador is can bargain for anything from fruits and less than a 4-hour flight from the U.S. vegetables to blankets, tapestries, so is a great stand-alone destination clothes and handicrafts. and also can be an extension to a Farther south is Cuenca, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its cobblestone streets, colonial buildings with Arasha, Ecuador’s finest tropical rain for- colorful balconies, and charming plazas est resort and spa, is just two hours and markets are well preserved. from Quito within one of the world’s Amazing collections of archaeological biodiversity “hotspots.” Its ecologically findings and ancient art can be admired A visit to Quito, Ecuador’s capital, is a sensitive bungalows are the perfect base in Cuenca’s museums. must as its colonial center was the first from which to participate in 30-plus in the world designated as a UNESCO workshops and excursions while relaxing World Heritage Site. Luxury hotels are in this enchanting paradise. Galapagos or Peru itinerary. Frontiers knows Ecuador well and can customize your Ecuadorian holiday. available, but for a more authentic experience, we suggest one of the centuriesold mansions that have been painstakingly restored as boutique hotels, some Those in search of more adventure and who want to learn about the birds and wildlife of the Ecuadorian Amazon stay Set in a verdant, mountainous region in at Napo Wildlife Center, the ultimate central Ecuador, Banos is a sleepy sustainable tourism eco-lodge in Andean village on the slopes of the Ecuador. Galapagos Galapagos Islands The Galapagos Islands, situated some 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, is not “The combination of our guide Fabian and only a top wildlife-viewing destination but also one of the earth’s true natural the Parranda exceeded my expectations. wonders. Unlike most other places in the world, Galapagos’s charming creatures The Galapagos should be viewed as a have no innate fear of man so one can expect amazing personal encounters and photo opportunities with seemingly tame wildlife. national treasure for knowledge, presentation and pride!” D.H. – Seattle, WA The isolation of the Galapagos has, of course, stimulated the evolution of endemic plants and animals — many confined to single islands within the archipelago. For those who have followed the long history of the famous Galapagos tortoise, Lonesome George, the news that he may have at last achieved fatherhood came as a welcomed surprise. He was thought to be the last survivor of his species, but keepers recently recovered a clutch of eggs from his enclosure. If the eggs hatch and are proven to be George’s offspring, it will represent a landmark success for conservationists. Frontiers has special access to the best boats in the Galapagos, ranging from 16-passenger luxury yachts to 96passenger expedition vessels, many of which we’ve experienced personally. For those who prefer land-based accom- Zodiacs transport guests daily to and from the islands for exploration modations, the hotels and villas on Santa Cruz Island provide the perfect base from which to explore. No matter how you choose to discover the Galapagos, it is the perfect destination for a multigenerational family holiday. English-speaking naturalist guides who accompany each cruise have years of experience, a passion for nature and conservation, and aim to provide an in-depth appreciation of the islands. All who visit will be captivated by the beauty and uniqueness of the islands and will gain an understanding of the pace and tone of the wildness. Call Frontiers 1-800-245-1950 • +44 (0)1285 741340 in Europe • www.frontierstravel.com page 11 page 12 Congress Building Buenos Aires This pulsating, cosmopolitan capital of interests, from tango lessons to polo 13 million inhabitants caters to every instruction, or visits to artist studios, bicy- taste with its unbeatable blend of cul- cle tours, personal shopping, and ture, sophistication and excitement. Few estancia visits. cities offer more restaurants or a wider choice of cuisine, diverse languages spoken, or a greater variation of architecture. There are fabulous hotels, dynamic entertainment, fascinating history, and beautiful art museums. Private, guided sightseeing in Buenos Aires is a must for every traveler to this elegant city. Drive down wide avenues to the main points of interest, reflecting Buenos Aires’ fascinating history and “Our travels and experiences in Chile, Easter Island, and Argentina combined the elegance of accommodations, the pleasures of wonderful food and wines, and the history and romances of three very different cultures – beautifully arranged. Thanks!” R.S. – Naples, FL exceptional architecture — Plaza de Mayo; Palermo, a collection of Frenchinspired mansions and the illustrious polo stadium; the old district of San Some of the deluxe hotels we recommend are the Four Seasons, Palacio Duhau Park-Hyatt, and Alvear Palace Hotel; boutique accommodations include the Legado Mitico Hotel and the CasaSur Art Hotel. No visit to Buenos Aires would be complete without enjoying an evening of authentic tango dancers, musicians and gauchos in typical costume performing to folkloric music over dinner in restaurants, hotels or theaters. This delightful entertainment provides an interesting overview of Argentina’s musical culture. Telmo, the colorful barrio noted for its Consider a day trip via hydrofoil across antique shops, art studios and tango the River Plate to Colonia, Uruguay, to bars; the famed Recoleta Cemetery, the explore this charming 17th-century burial place of Eva Perón; and the world- coastal town, a former fortress and con- renowned 3,500-seat astonishing and traband port. Sights include the city sumptuous Colón Theatre, which will walls, lighthouse, museums, and Iglesia reopen after extensive renovations in Matriz del Santísimo Sacramento, the May 2010. A full-day of activities can oldest church in Uruguay dating to 1699. easily be arranged to include special Iguazu Iguazú Falls from Argentine and/or Brazilian Side Iguazú National Park, spanning the border between Argentina and Brazil, boasts an incredible 21,000 plant species and 400 bird species, but the spectacular waterfalls are the major attraction. Made up of 275 cascades spanning a distance of two miles and rising up to 330 feet, it is a most impressive sight and can be visited from the Brazilian or Argentine side. Stay in Argentina at the Sheraton Internacional Hotel or at Das Cataratas Hotel in Brazil now managed by Orient-Express who is making a tremendous investment to restore its colonial luster. If you choose Brazil to be a part of your itinerary, a Brazilian tourist visa is required for U.S. citizens. Cavas Wine Lodge Mendoza Mendoza Wine Region Mendoza is set in the foothills of the Andes and enjoys a perfect climate for producing fine wines, especially the Malbecs, Syrahs, and Cabernet Sauvignons. Its history dates back to the Incas. Parks, fountains and gardens line broad avenues, creating a unique and charming city. Stay at the elegant, Spanish colonial styled Cavas Wine Lodge surrounded by vineyards in a magnificent setting with soft spoken luxury. Its spacious rooms — each with its own swimming pool/terrace — have the charm of a private residence. Visits to Mendoza’s best wineries, private wine tastings, horseback riding, fishing or hiking are some activities to be enjoyed. Dine by candlelight in the gourmet restaurant and explore the infinite selection of Argentine wines. Alternatively, you can stay at the deluxe Park-Hyatt Hotel in Mendoza and enjoy all the amenities, including the spa and casino, and still have access to the many boutique wineries with a private guide. Some of our favorites are Achaval-Ferrer and Vina Cobos to high-tech wineries like Catena Zapata, Terrazas de los Andes and Norton. We suggest at least 3-4 nights, depending on the intensity of your wine interest. It is worthwhile to spend at least one day in the spectacular Uco Valley where there has been a proliferation of prominent, emerging premium wines that have been developed there at wineries like Andeluna Cellar, Salentine, Clos of the 7, O’Fournier and Lurton. It is also possible to spend the day at Rancho e Cuero, an estancia located in the foothills of the Andes in a spectacular setting where you can enjoy a day of outdoor activities complete with an asado lunch. This is a wonderful last-stop destination before you return home. Call Frontiers 1-800-245-1950 • +44 (0)1285 741340 in Europe • www.frontierstravel.com page 13 page 14 Patagonia San Martin de los Andes mountain for all skill levels. In summer, A hidden gem in Argentina’s Patagonia the surrounding lakes and rivers provide region, San Martin de los Andes is a outstanding trout fishing, canoeing, haven of peace and tranquility surround- kayaking and white-water rafting. ed by rivers, waterfalls, mountains and Horseback riding, trekking, zip lining, magical forests of monkey puzzle trees. It mountain biking and world-class golf at is situated on the shores of Lake Lacar the Jack Nicklaus-designed Chapelco with the imposing Lanin Volcano as a course are just a few of the other backdrop. San Martin is a typical alpine adventure sports available. village with old-world architecture, halftimbered chalets, a town square, parks and private gardens displaying a profusion of flowers yet still offers all the modern amenities and fine accommodations. Patagonia Outfitters will combine these sporting venues with the town’s many cultural and entertainment opportunities, along with visits to a Mapuche Indian community and local artisans, In winter, the nearby Chapelco ski area add their special brand of Patagonian can accommodate 11,000 skiers and hospitality and cuisine to the mix, to features 30 runs from an 8,500-foot make this an unforgettable experience. La Araucana, the finest accommodations/cuisine/hospitality in a beautiful setting with access to the many activities that are available in and around San Martin. San Carlos de Bariloche Better known as just “Bariloche,” this Andean village has grown along the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi, which is surrounded by dense forests, alpine lakes and towering mountain vistas. This is classic Patagonia. Take advantage “Argentina more than met of the numerous attractions our expectations for a including lake excursions, vacation. Interacting with the tours of the park, river Argentine people and eating floats, golf at two fine at wonderful restaurants courses, and shopping made this trip very special.” A.S. – Wilmington, VT along Bariloche’s main street with its many choco- late shops. We recommend staying at the new El Casco Art Hotel located right on the lake or at the well-known Llao Llao Hotel & Resort nestled on a hillside with a panoramic view of the lake. Enjoy dinner at the acclaimed La Cassis, rated as one of Argentina’s best restaurants. Call Frontiers 1-800-245-1950 • +44 (0)1285 741340 in Europe • www.frontierstravel.com page 15 page 16 Tierra del Fuego El Calafate, Perito Moreno Glacier Tierra del Fuego — Land of Fire The charming town of El Calafate is the gateway to the Los and Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Here you can Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, home to red foxes, gua- forms part of the Patagonian Continental Ice Field from which nacos, beavers, condors and ducks, or take boat excursions 13 glaciers descend on the Atlantic side, with the Perito along the Beagle Channel to see seals and Magellan penguins. Moreno being one of earth’s few advancing glaciers. The Ushuaia is also the jumping-off point for the large expedition accommodations at Estancia Los Notros overlook the glacier. cruise ships to Antarctica, the “White Continent.” At the very southern tip of South America is Tierra del Fuego However, there are now new hotel options in Calafate, such as Los Sauces and Imago. We can arrange day trips to the glacier and other outdoor activities. This can easily be combined with Cruceros Australis explora en Patagonia or in combination with Ushuaia and other Discover the grandeur of Southern Patagonia and Tierra del travel in the Tierra del Fuego region. Fuego with Cruceros Australis. Three- and 4-night cruises between Punta Arenas and Ushuaia aboard the deluxe expedition vessels Mare Australis and Via Australis allow you to retrace the legendary voyages of Darwin and Magellan. Experience the breathtaking scenery of the Straits of Magellan, the Beagle Channel, and the spectacular Avenue of the Glaciers where seven glaciers can be viewed in one afternoon. Explore by land and sea the serene sub-Antarctic forests and magical fjords, where you will encounter the region’s unique flora and enchanting marine life including Magellan penguins, sea lions, elephant seals, whales, dolphins, and a variety of sea birds. Memories to last a lifetime await you on these journeys to “the uttermost part of the earth.” 61478.1aa.qxd:EWS 2007 brochure.qxd 9/5/08 6:02 PM Page 18 page 18 Salta Discover Salta — A Real Gem in Northwest Argentina A drive through Humahuaca Gorge The province of Salta was the first port tacular landscapes and archaeological of call for 16th-century Spanish con- richness. Located in the north of the quistadors entering the country from Jujuy Province bordering Bolivia, this Peru. The region is steeped in history gorge has been acclaimed as an and traditions with fascinating archaeo- UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. It logical sites, geological formations, and is also a haven for birders with huge some of the best examples of authentic flocks of flamingos and condors, ibis 16th-century Spanish architecture and many other species. Painted with ple, and the elegant Patios de Cafayate remaining in its houses, streets, monu- multi-colored hills and adobe houses, Hotel Spa overlooking the Etchart ments and narrow sidewalks. the gorge once served as a route for the Vineyards and the Calachaqui Valley reveals the perfect combination of spec- Incas and as a passage for expedition Just five blocks from the main square in beyond. Geologically speaking, this area parties, settlers, and traders. the town of Salta is our favorite hotel, is fascinating. Everyone loves Cafayate! Purmamarca is a small, peaceful town the Hotel Legado Mitico. This recently near the Cerro de los Siete Colores renovated old mansion is now an 11- (Seven Colors Hill) and known for its room inn with beautiful furnishings, craft fair around the main square. A similar to its sister hotel in Buenos Aires. lunch spot would be El Manatial. Cachi is the jumping off place to Colome, an exquisitely luxurious inn set in the remote and spectacular Andes, featuring the world’s highest altitude winery. Owned by art collector and The Museum of High Altitude The hillside town of Tilcara on the east- Archaeology of Salta features its mag- award-winning winemaker Donald ern side of Quebrada de Humahuaca nificent temperature-controlled exhibit Hess, this is truly a remarkable experi- Gorge is known as the archaeological of the "Llullaillaco Children," one of the ence, with stunningly elegant suites, capital of Jujuy for its pre-Incan Andean most important archaeological discover- outstanding food, and intense and ruins. This typical town of low adobe ies of recent times. Three Inca children utterly magical wines. houses and narrow streets is also were found frozen at the peak of known for handicrafts, chic art stores, Mount Llullaillaco, 21,982 feet above and one of the most important muse- sea level, in March 1999. One hundred ums in the country. and forty-six artifacts were found Argentina’s vast northwestern region requires a minimum stay of five days in order to fully appreciate its cultural diversity and beauty and to allow for travel together with the children: this minia- Another “must see” is Cafayate, well time between locations. The best time to ture treasure accompanied them on known for its emerging high-altitude visit is between April and October. their journey to eternity 500 years ago viticulture amidst breathtaking land- during the height of the Inca rule. scapes, a mild climate, its friendly peo- On the Horizon... . . . The official Argentine polo season begins in September. . . . The first “W” Hotel in South America will open in Santiago later this year. . . . The Park Hyatt Patagonia Resort and Spa will open late ’09 featuring a Jack Nicklaus Uruguay Golf at the Four Seasons in Carmelo, Uruguay Depart Buenos Aires by helicopter or charter aircraft to the airstrip at the Four Seasons Signature Golf Course close to Puerto Varas, Chile. This will complement the first Nicklaus course opened in ’06 in San Martin de los Andes, Argentina which has been very popular with our guests. . . . Lindblad Expeditions’ Endeavor will move to the Galapagos in April 2009. Carmelo Hotel, a fantastic golf resort nestled in the rolling Uruguayan countryside. This . . . Casa Antucura reflects exquisite elegance expertly designed 18-hole, par 72 course winds around numerous lakes, wetland, native with majestic views across the vineyards to trees and ornamental grass outcroppings. Golfers will appreciate such details as the truest the Andes and is the newest boutique lodge bent-grass putting surfaces south of the equator — maintained at an eighth of an inch year in the Uco Valley accessible from Mendoza. round, hybrid Bermuda fairways, challenging white sand bunkers, and expansive lakes. Punta del Este Beach and Golf Option . . . In 2009, Susie Gavlik will visit the Salta region of Argentina, and in Chile, The Cliffs, and some of the new Atacama lodges. Punta del Este, South America’s elegant Riviera, is a narrow spit of land jutting into the Atlantic and lined with beaches. This is the playground of the rich looking for sun and . . . La Casona, Cusco’s first luxury boutique fun with a truly scenic setting of hills, beaches, islands and Hollywood homes. Our hotel situated next to the Museum of Pre- favorite hotels are the Club del Lago, a recently inaugurated 5-star golfing lodge, and Columbian Art, between the San Blas artist L’Auberge, a traditional and romantic boutique property, and the new Mantra Hotel. district and Cusco’s vibrant main square. Enjoy the activities and festivities of this lively beach location, for there’s lots to do from sunup to sundown and on into the night with great restaurants and entertainment. . . . Titilaka, an all-inclusive luxury lodge as a base for exploration of Peru’s Lake Titicaca. Golf is a serious option with three 18-hole, par 72 courses of international quality. Yachting and some easy sea fishing are also options. Antarctic Expedition Cruise This destination is a “must” on everyone’s list. The superlatives go on and on, yet words like stunning, breathtaking, and awe-inspiring still seem inadequate to describe the scenery, the indigenous wildlife, and the vast serenity of the Antarctic experience. Frontiers can help you select the right cruise with the best naturalist guide-to-guest ratios and the itinerary that best suits your interests and objectives — i.e., whether to include the Falklands and/or South Georgia. Two of our favorites are Abercrombie & Kent’s MV Minerva (formerly Explorer II) and Lindblad Expeditions’ National Geographic Explorer. But there is a cruise option to meet every budget and level of interest. Deluxe Cruise Options in South America If you enjoy cruising the “high seas” and like the concept of unpacking just once in the pampered comfort of your stateroom, why not consider exploring South America’s dramatic coastline and exotic ports by ship. Some of our favorite lines include Seabourn, Silversea, Oceania and Regent, which consistently win accolades from savvy travelers. All offer South American venues with an array of attractive 14- to 36-day one-way itineraries and we can compare itineraries for you to consider. Call Frontiers 1-800-245-1950 • +44 (0)1285 741340 in Europe • www.frontierstravel.com page 19 FRESHWATER FISHING Atlantic and Pacific salmon, sea trout, taimen, peacock bass, tiger- A Passion For Travel fish, golden dorado and steelhead fishing on some of the most famous rivers in the world. Renowned trout fishing in the Southern and Northern Hemispheres. FOR US, IT IS A PASSION — a passion for travel and a passion to share. Let our expert staff help guide you to your ideal destination. SALTWATER FISHING Light-tackle fly fishing in warm waters for bonefish, tarpon, permit, trevally, milkfish and barracuda. Blue-water big game fishing on fly and conventional tackle. Unique tropical properties to satisfy all interests with differing standards of accommodation. Norberto Seebach has produced the definitive pictorial portrayal of every region of Chile in his acclaimed book, Recorriendo, Chile. We are pleased to share these outstanding images with you — they are designated NS throughout this ELEGANT JOURNEYS Sojourns brochure. We know most corners of the world and can plan your customized travel, from luxury barging and cruises to exclusive wine and garden tours to private family getaways . . . and so much more. United States Office WING SHOOTING Flighting, decoying and walk-up shooting for doves, ducks, pigeons, perdiz and other game birds in P.O. Box 959, Wexford, PA 15090-0959 Toll-free 800-245-1950 Phone 724-935-1577 Fax 724-935-5388 E-mail [email protected] Web Site www.frontierstravel.com Africa, Argentina, Uruguay, Bolivia and other South American countries. Traditional driven shooting in Europe for pheasants, mallards and red-legged partridges. European Office Dovecot Workshops, Barnsley Park Barnsley, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 5EG, England Tel +44 (0)1285 741340 Fax +44 (0)1285 741341 E-mail [email protected] PHOTO SAFARIS With unparalleled destination knowledge and firsthand credibility, our team of experts has designed and coordinated photographic expeditions and special-interest departures throughout many African nations and several other countries blessed with unique flora and fauna. The air holidays and flights in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 3315. Copyright © 2008. Frontiers International Travel. All rights reserved. Photo Credits: Norberto Seebach, explora. Cavas Wine Lodge, Arasha and All of Ecuador, Abercrombie & Kent, Lindblad Expeditions, Llao LLao Hotel, Orient-Express, El Casco Art Hotel, Aqua Expeditions, Maiten and Frontiers staff.