COMO Maalifushi, true barefoot luxury, ideal for fly fishing and surfing enthusiasts, diving with whale sharks, and a haven for family vacations. |
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There is no place quite like the Maldives. Arguably the best beaches on the planet are complemented by some of the world's most sumptuous remote stays. Each resort in the Maldives features private island experiences accessible by boat and/or air transfers from Male, the nation's capital. World-class diving and snorkeling over pristine reefs teeming with sea life, seemingly endless breaks for dynamite surfing, virgin fly fishing flats, and romantic over-the-water bungalows await you.
We also found the Maldivian culture to be one of the most warm and welcoming in the world, the people friendly and charming. Plus the diversity of the staff and guests, from over 100 countries in the world, add to the unforgettable experiences you encounter each day.
We also found the Maldivian culture to be one of the most warm and welcoming in the world, the people friendly and charming. Plus the diversity of the staff and guests, from over 100 countries in the world, add to the unforgettable experiences you encounter each day.
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Travel Tip: We will customize your international flights to match your chosen itinerary. Most travel from North American and Europe is through Dubai, UAE or Doha, Qatar. We highly recommend a stop-over in one of these unique and exciting cities for one to three nights if you have the time. Email Stephen to begin planning your trip.
Some of the hotels we love in Dubai include: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah; Four Seasons Resort at Jumeirah Beach; Atlantis The Royal Dubai; Jumeirah Al-Naseem; Jumeirah Al Qasr; One & Only The Palm.
Some of the hotels we love in Doha include: Four Seasons Doha; W Doha; Park Hyatt Doha; Fairmont Doha; St. Regis Doha. Email Stephen to begin planning your trip.
Some of the hotels we love in Doha include: Four Seasons Doha; W Doha; Park Hyatt Doha; Fairmont Doha; St. Regis Doha. Email Stephen to begin planning your trip.
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If you ever watched the old TV show Fantasy Island, you'll know about the seaplane arriving - "The plane, boss, the plane" - and how all your vacation fantasies can come true. Well...it's even better than that at the new luxury JOALI BEING resort.
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Whatever we write here, it will maybe just give you an idea of the true sense of peace and relaxation, adventure and exhilaration, connection and emotion, magic and pure joy we have felt during our body and mind altering vacation here this month. We expected it to be amazing, but it was way beyond that.....all we can say is that you need to visit and see for yourself. Get in touch and we can arrange your trip in seamless fashion to the this private island paradise.
Nestled on the secluded island of Bodufushi in Raa Atoll, amid crystalline lagoons, pristine beaches and lush coconut palms, JOALI BEING is a 40-minute seaplane journey from Malé International Airport. With 68 villas, each with its own butler or “Jadugar” and private pool, this is the region’s first wellbeing island retreat. And from the moment you arrive, the you will be treated better than royalty, and being your journey to "weightlessness".
Nestled on the secluded island of Bodufushi in Raa Atoll, amid crystalline lagoons, pristine beaches and lush coconut palms, JOALI BEING is a 40-minute seaplane journey from Malé International Airport. With 68 villas, each with its own butler or “Jadugar” and private pool, this is the region’s first wellbeing island retreat. And from the moment you arrive, the you will be treated better than royalty, and being your journey to "weightlessness".
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Culinary delights - Yes, the food is all fresh and there is a focus on natural ingredients and health, but each dining experience is made perfect by the service and your sense of well-being....and the food is delicious and creative. And don't worry, if you like meat, the finest Wagyu beef is available, along with the freshest seafood, and cuisine flavors from around the world. From the bar, delightful craft cocktails, beer selection, and fine wines.
Immerse in the vibrancy of FLOW, an open-plan interactive dining space featuring three signature kitchens. Plantae offers vegetarian and vegan cuisine, Su serves ocean-to-table pescatarian fare, and B’Well features a signature JOALI BEING menu, including a selection of Earth-to-Table meals. For sunset seekers, there is Mojo – our tropical beach sanctuary located on a three-layered sundeck and is an ideal lunch and sundowner spot by the pool. Culinary arts at JOALI BEING focus on an earth-to-table initiative, promising ingredient traceability and offering fresh, locally harvested foods that support small farms and are sustainably sourced.
Activities - One of the best spas in the world (including cryotherapy), diving, snorkeling, watersports, fishing, yoga, beach picnics, and sunset cruises....or just hang by your private pool and do nothing but live in the dream of the moment.
Immerse in the vibrancy of FLOW, an open-plan interactive dining space featuring three signature kitchens. Plantae offers vegetarian and vegan cuisine, Su serves ocean-to-table pescatarian fare, and B’Well features a signature JOALI BEING menu, including a selection of Earth-to-Table meals. For sunset seekers, there is Mojo – our tropical beach sanctuary located on a three-layered sundeck and is an ideal lunch and sundowner spot by the pool. Culinary arts at JOALI BEING focus on an earth-to-table initiative, promising ingredient traceability and offering fresh, locally harvested foods that support small farms and are sustainably sourced.
Activities - One of the best spas in the world (including cryotherapy), diving, snorkeling, watersports, fishing, yoga, beach picnics, and sunset cruises....or just hang by your private pool and do nothing but live in the dream of the moment.
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Travel Tip: We will customize your international flights to match your chosen itinerary. Most travel from North America and Europe is through Dubai, UAE or Doha, Qatar. We highly recommend a stop-over in one of these unique and exciting cities for one to three nights if you have the time.
Stop-overs in Dubai and Doha - Both Emirates and Qatar Airlines have superior service to the Maldives through Dubai and Doha.
Some of the hotels we love in Dubai include: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah; Four Seasons Resort at Jumeirah Beach; Atlantis The Royal Dubai; Jumeirah Al-Naseem; Jumeirah Al Qasr; One & Only The Palm.
Some of the hotels we love in Doha include: Four Seasons Doha; W Doha; Park Hyatt Doha; Fairmont Doha; St. Regis Doha.
Some of the hotels we love in Dubai include: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah; Four Seasons Resort at Jumeirah Beach; Atlantis The Royal Dubai; Jumeirah Al-Naseem; Jumeirah Al Qasr; One & Only The Palm.
Some of the hotels we love in Doha include: Four Seasons Doha; W Doha; Park Hyatt Doha; Fairmont Doha; St. Regis Doha.
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We specialize in custom-designing fly-fishing and luxury adventure travel throughout Iceland, and are recognized for our creative approach and uncompromising customer service. Our local team is constantly exploring, searching for exciting adventures, special restaurants, new rivers and lakes to fish, and off-the-beaten path places to stay. This is rewarding work, which allows us to tailor-make unforgettable experiences for you.
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And along with our focus on fishing, we work with other exclusive local partners to design and integrate additional adventure and cultural activities to round out your overall vacation experience. Enjoy the vibrant capital city of Reykjavik, play golf, go diving or snorkeling, horseback rid in the Highlands, explore ancient glaciers and ice caves, sea kayak in the spectacular Glacier Lagoon, ride ATVs on black sand beaches, descend into the magma chamber of a dormant volcano, soak in the therapeutic waters of The Retreat Spa at Blue Lagoon, take a whale watching sea adventure, and enjoy the delicious sea-to-table cuisine.
Email Stephen to learn more about this special destination.
Email Stephen to learn more about this special destination.
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2022 was a fun year for us, and for so many of our clients and friends. Great to see friends we haven't seen since COVID. Eating, drinking, enjoying so many super days on the water, and of course catching some amazing fish. Looking forward to even more fun in 2023! Get in touch to begin planning your trip with us. It's prime fishing time somewhere in the world all year round! stephen.vletas@protravelinc.com
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Consider this your friendly reminder that we live on a fascinating and beautiful planet worthy of exploration. Whether you view travel as a lifestyle or are considering getting your next vacation in order, we can show you remarkable ways to celebrate the world of experiential travel. We're here to help you plan an adventure filled with stunning landscapes, interesting cultures, and your favorite activities — and creature comforts, to boot! Get in touch today to select an unforgettable adventure that's relaxing, life-changing, and so much fun.
Warm regards, Stephen & Kim Vletas
 | Need ideas? How about Sun Sand and Adventure activities in The Bahamas and Turks & Caicos, or in the Dominican Republic? Culture, food and wine, and sparking beaches in Portugal, Spain, or Greece? Fly fishing and natural splendor in Iceland and Argentina? Or choose a special resort location to relax in luxury like JOALI in the Maldives, Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Seychelles, The Conrad in Punta Mita, Mexico, or a stunning private villa or home from Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes. |
| We are on the pulse of the top destinations worldwide and we have state-of-the-art technology that provides the best availability and rates in real time. And most importantly, we will continue to be your advocate should any unforeseen circumstances arise during your travels. We are always here for you. The world is yours for the taking once again! Let’s plan something unforgettable together. Visit our website at www.tightlooptravel.com stephen.vletas@protravelinc.com kim.vletas@protravelinc.com |  |
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Enjoy a feast for all your senses in Argentina and Chile - Great value for those seeking laid-back comfort, vibrant cultures, award-winning wines, unique active adventures, and magnificent natural splendors such as Iguazu Falls and the glaciers of El Calafate and Torres del Paine in southern Patagonia. Argentina and Chile are natural wonders, waiting to be explored. You dream it. We create it.
 | TLT Signature Outfitters Argentina - Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego - Fly fish for super-charged trout in the best rivers and lakes with the top guides. Experience the Malleo, Chimehuin, Collon Cura, Alumine, Medio Limay, Rivadavia, Chubut, Rio Pico, Rio Grande, Rio Menendez, and more. Eat, sleep, drink, relax in comfort and enjoy adventure activities in fine Argentinean style. Most adventures begin in Buenos Aires, San Martin de Los Andes, Bariloche, Esquel or Rio Grande, but we can customize your journey to suit your chosen itinerary. |
| TLT Signature Outfitters Chile - Lake District, Patagonia, Torres del Paine - Fly fish for wild trout and salmon in the best rivers and lakes with the top guides. Experience the Puelo, Futaleufu, Yelcho, Palena, Rosselot, Figueroa, Simpson, Paloma, Cisnes, and Serrano, plus a myriad of other remote streams and lakes. We accommodate your fishing style -- dries, nymphs, streamers -- and we enjoying teaching beginners. There's no better place to learn and get hooked on fly fishing. Eat, sleep, drink, relax in comfort and style and enjoy authentic Chilean adventure activities. Most trips begin in Santiago, Puerto Montt, or Punta Arenas, but we can customize your trip to match your chosen itinerary. |  |
 | Awasi Atacama, Chile - Relais & Chateaux An exclusive experience, and a spectacular base for exploring the desert’s otherworldly environs. Relax in one of twelve suites; each with a private patio with an outdoor shower and solarium, and abundant open space. Each room is assigned a four-wheel-drive vehicle and a private professional guide to accompany you on all-inclusive outings to the area’s volcanoes, geysers, and dry salt lakes. You set your own schedule each day with your guide. And the cuisine? Spectacular! |
| explora Patagonia, Chile - Hotel Salto Chico Set within Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the lodge offers unique access to experience the natural wonders on foot, or on horseback – try one of the more than 40 adventures with bilingual guides. Guest rooms feature native furnishings and captivating views. Swim in the heated pool, enjoy a massage, and dine on local dishes, such as lamb, crab, and fresh fish. Explora programs customize your experience from beginning to end. |  |
 | Mendoza, Argentina - Land of Sun and Wine - A TLT Signature Destination Mendoza boasts over 300 days of sunshine a year and one of the world’s most remarkable wine country experiences, with stunning Andes landscapes, a variety of high-quality wineries and vineyards, and a myriad of activities and attractions that beckon to be explored. And the city is an exciting blend of parks and plazas, fine restaurants, shops, art fares, outdoor markets, and vibrant nightlife. Our local team of wine guides, concierges, hosts and gauchos will take care of you. We customize all itineraries to match your desires, and use our 20+ years of experience to set you up with unique experiences only locals can provide. |
Don't see what you're looking for? We have our team and partners throughout Argentina and Chile. Drop us a note and let us know what you're searching for. We'll put together a special itinerary just for you.
Spring is here in the Northern Hemisphere and fabulous fly- fishing options abound. Let's book your adventure now!
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ICELAND - The 2022 season is underway and it's looking good!
The fishing season started in Iceland on April 1st and it's safe to say that we're off to a flying start. This time of year we're focused on the sea run brown trout at Tungufljót, Vatnamót, Fossálar, Skaftá Ásgarður Jónskvísl and Grenlækur. The fish have been really healthy and we've been catching some absolute monsters. One in particular, a 98 cm male from Skaftá Ásgarður, caught by our friend and guide, Maros Zatko (@jungleindatrout)
Although we're in sea trout wonderland these days, there's also big things brewing at Lake Thingvallavatn. Very big things! As you probably know, Lake Thingvallavatn holds some absolute monsters and has long become famous for those huge ice-age brown trout. We're happy to report that after a cold spring, they've started eating flies! Kárastaðir Beat has been pretty active, and anglers have been netting some beautiful fish. Villingavatnsárós Beat 3A got off to a slow start, but the last dew days things have been going a bit crazy. How about a day at Beat 3A where you land upwards of 20 fish. And we're not talking about your run-off-the-mill brown trout. We're talking monster trout!
We offer day guided trips out of Reykjavik, and packages that include accommodations in the best areas of the Highlands, and around the country for large Arctic char, sea-run browns and brown trout, plus Atlantic Salmon season begins in June and runs to the end of September. Plus gorgeous sightseeing and adventure options are available to combine with your fishing. For more information email Stephen, or give him a call: +1 307-690-7472.
The fishing season started in Iceland on April 1st and it's safe to say that we're off to a flying start. This time of year we're focused on the sea run brown trout at Tungufljót, Vatnamót, Fossálar, Skaftá Ásgarður Jónskvísl and Grenlækur. The fish have been really healthy and we've been catching some absolute monsters. One in particular, a 98 cm male from Skaftá Ásgarður, caught by our friend and guide, Maros Zatko (@jungleindatrout)
Although we're in sea trout wonderland these days, there's also big things brewing at Lake Thingvallavatn. Very big things! As you probably know, Lake Thingvallavatn holds some absolute monsters and has long become famous for those huge ice-age brown trout. We're happy to report that after a cold spring, they've started eating flies! Kárastaðir Beat has been pretty active, and anglers have been netting some beautiful fish. Villingavatnsárós Beat 3A got off to a slow start, but the last dew days things have been going a bit crazy. How about a day at Beat 3A where you land upwards of 20 fish. And we're not talking about your run-off-the-mill brown trout. We're talking monster trout!
We offer day guided trips out of Reykjavik, and packages that include accommodations in the best areas of the Highlands, and around the country for large Arctic char, sea-run browns and brown trout, plus Atlantic Salmon season begins in June and runs to the end of September. Plus gorgeous sightseeing and adventure options are available to combine with your fishing. For more information email Stephen, or give him a call: +1 307-690-7472.
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TLT Signature Fly Fishing Guide Services and Complete Tailor-made Vacation Planning - Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Our Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone area guide services feature full and half day floats, overnight glamping float trips, walk-in wade trips, classes, clinics and private lessons. We fish the Snake River, the Green and New Fork Rivers, the rivers and lakes of the Greater Yellowstone area, the South Fork, the Henry's Fork, and a myriad of other lakes, streams, and private spring creeks.
Season: Memorial Day through October
Suitable for: Anglers of all ability levels and their non-angling friends and loved ones.
What's Included? We customize all packages and day trips to meet your needs.
Accommodations range from luxury hotels like Amangani and Four Seasons Resort, to private homes, spacious condos, intimate B&Bs, and small hotels and inns.
Not Included: Determined by the customized fishing and lodging options you choose. If you have already planned your trip, we can book just your guided fishing.
Optional Activities: Golf, tennis, hiking, camping, backpacking, biking, windsurfing, kayaking, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, mountain climbing, shopping, fine dining, lively nightlife and more! We offer a complete concierge service to book any activity. Let's get started!
Pricing: We listen to you, then design your ideal vacation. We will provide detailed itineraries and price quotes based on your input.
Plan your trip - Please contact Stephen or Kim to learn more, and to begin your travel planning journey.
Our Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone area guide services feature full and half day floats, overnight glamping float trips, walk-in wade trips, classes, clinics and private lessons. We fish the Snake River, the Green and New Fork Rivers, the rivers and lakes of the Greater Yellowstone area, the South Fork, the Henry's Fork, and a myriad of other lakes, streams, and private spring creeks.
Season: Memorial Day through October
Suitable for: Anglers of all ability levels and their non-angling friends and loved ones.
What's Included? We customize all packages and day trips to meet your needs.
Accommodations range from luxury hotels like Amangani and Four Seasons Resort, to private homes, spacious condos, intimate B&Bs, and small hotels and inns.
Not Included: Determined by the customized fishing and lodging options you choose. If you have already planned your trip, we can book just your guided fishing.
Optional Activities: Golf, tennis, hiking, camping, backpacking, biking, windsurfing, kayaking, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, mountain climbing, shopping, fine dining, lively nightlife and more! We offer a complete concierge service to book any activity. Let's get started!
Pricing: We listen to you, then design your ideal vacation. We will provide detailed itineraries and price quotes based on your input.
Plan your trip - Please contact Stephen or Kim to learn more, and to begin your travel planning journey.
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Alaska - TLT Signature Fly Fishing Destinations since 1989. Tailor-made vacation planning in one of the best fisheries on earth.
We have been fly-fishing in Alaska since the 1980s, and began our regular hosted trip programs there in 1989. For fresh water anglers, this is a bucket list destination if you haven't been, but the fact is, once you've been, you keep going back as many times as you can. We work with all the best lodges throughout Alaska, and focus mostly on fly-out lodges who specialize in fly-fishing for big rainbow trout, Pacific salmon, Arctic char, dollies, grayling, and northern pike.
Season: Mid-June through September.
Suitable for: Anglers of all ability levels. Alaska is a great place to learn to fly-fish, where you'll be spoiled right off the bat.
What's Included? We customize all packages, including stop-overs in Anchorage, and add-on adventures to meet your needs.
Accommodations: range from luxury lodges to upscale tent camps. Some of our favorite lodges include: Enchanted Lake Lodge, Royal Wolf Lodge, Crystal Creek Lodge, Mission Lodge, and Alaska West, among others. NOTE: Availability is very tight at these lodges, and anglers often book a year or more in advance. Returning anglers often rebook their same week before they leave on their current trip. Let us know your preferred dates, or date options, and we'll give you the options at lodges where there is availability.
Not Included: Determined by the customized fishing and lodging options you choose. Air fares to and from your hometown to Anchorage. some lodges include flights from Anchorage to the lodge. For others, we arrange the flights and there is an additional charge.
Optional Activities: Fun and easy to add on adventures to your fishing. Trips to Denali National Park, to Brooks Lake for bear watching, plus hiking, biking and sea kayaking. Let's get started!
Pricing: Based on the lodge you choose. We will provide detailed itineraries and price quotes.
Plan your trip - Please contact Stephen or Kim to learn more, and to begin your travel planning journey.
Season: Mid-June through September.
Suitable for: Anglers of all ability levels. Alaska is a great place to learn to fly-fish, where you'll be spoiled right off the bat.
What's Included? We customize all packages, including stop-overs in Anchorage, and add-on adventures to meet your needs.
Accommodations: range from luxury lodges to upscale tent camps. Some of our favorite lodges include: Enchanted Lake Lodge, Royal Wolf Lodge, Crystal Creek Lodge, Mission Lodge, and Alaska West, among others. NOTE: Availability is very tight at these lodges, and anglers often book a year or more in advance. Returning anglers often rebook their same week before they leave on their current trip. Let us know your preferred dates, or date options, and we'll give you the options at lodges where there is availability.
Not Included: Determined by the customized fishing and lodging options you choose. Air fares to and from your hometown to Anchorage. some lodges include flights from Anchorage to the lodge. For others, we arrange the flights and there is an additional charge.
Optional Activities: Fun and easy to add on adventures to your fishing. Trips to Denali National Park, to Brooks Lake for bear watching, plus hiking, biking and sea kayaking. Let's get started!
Pricing: Based on the lodge you choose. We will provide detailed itineraries and price quotes.
Plan your trip - Please contact Stephen or Kim to learn more, and to begin your travel planning journey.
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We love the Caribbean, but let's not forget Mexico, Portugal, and Greece. See some of our top suggestions for your sun and sand pleasure below.
This time of year, and into summer, we’re all about travels on and near the water – we love days spent reapplying SPF and not checking email. For some, that means toes in the sand and an ice-cold colorful drink – which makes our roundup of Caribbean beach bars required reading. You can also check out - An Ode to the Caribbean Beach Bar
| ANGUILLA - Four Seasons Resort and Residences - In the Caribbean’s culinary capital, this chic modern destination is ideal for pool relaxation, lively water sports and exotic dining in four unique restaurants. Take a stroll on two of Anguilla's best beaches and indulge in a variety of spa treatments. Have a sundowner cocktail while soaking in the infinity pool at the Sunset Lounge. It’s one of the best spots on the island to experience the magnificent Anguilla sunset. |  |
 | LOS CABOS AT COSTA PALMAS™ Four Seasons Resort - The all-new ultra-luxury resort is situated in Baja’s undiscovered East Cape on two miles of pristine beachfront. Home to the first Four Seasons private marina and renowned restaurant estiatorio Milos, the Resort evokes a modern elegance while embracing a deep connection to the local Mexican culture. Just 45 minutes from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) and a world away from the Cabo crowds, you can enjoy five dining options, a sports complex and fitness center, six expansive pools and the Oasis Spa and Wellness Centre. Fill each day with swimming, snorkeling, golf and desert adventures. Or just do nothing at all. |
| NEVIS, WEST INDIES - Four Seasons Resort Fresh from recent resort-wide renovations, the resort embodies a fresh take on a timeless Caribbean experience. On an unspoiled island, the resort is a spirited and soulful haven where both serenity and adventure can be pursued endlessly. With 189 rooms and suites and more than 50 luxury villas, there is something for everyone. Enjoy three infinity-edge pools, six restaurants and bars, complimentary nonmotorized water sports, and the Kids For All Seasons program for ages 3-9. Along with a relaxing spa and an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., take part in the award-winning tennis program by Peter Burwash International. |  |
 | PUNTA MITA, MÉXICO - Four Seasons Resort Water enthusiasts can’t believe their good fortune at the Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita. The casita-style resort features 177 guest rooms and 31 private villas, and is located on Bahía de Banderas, one of the world’s largest natural bays. Discover resort family programs; enjoy some of the best snorkeling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and whale watching on the planet. There’s also plenty to do on land: Golfers have their pick of two Jack Nicklaus-designed courses (the Pacifico course has the world’s only natural island green). Play tennis, ride horseback on the beach, or prepare your own tequila blend with the Cultural Concierge. |
| Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Lagoa, Portugal - Casually elegant rooms, suites, and villas are scattered about this resort to provide guests with the ultimate privacy. After a signature treatment at the Spa by Sisley Paris, snorkeling off the resort's yacht, or a six-course tasting at the two-Michelin starred Ocean, if you feel like a bit more pampering, simply let a butler chauffeur you back to your suite in a golf buggy. No request is too large or small at this unapologetically plush cliffside resort in the Algarve, which offers direct access to the beach and something for everyone, including golf, water sports, 10 dining venues, and a phenomenal kids’ playground. |  |
 | Santa Marina, a Luxury Collection Resort - Mykonos, Greece - Located on a private peninsula, this exceptional retreat offers a range of elegantly appointed rooms and suites, as well as exclusive two to six-bedroom villas, complete with their own pools and butler service. It's also the only resort on the island with a private beach exclusively for guest use, along with a small marina for speed boat services to get you around the island. Enjoy the famous nearby Buddha-Bar Beach scene, and Michelin-starred Jason Atherton’s first restaurant in the Mediterranean. Santa Marina invites you to savor the glamorous lifestyle of Mykonos in the island’s most fashionable and sophisticated setting. Just 10 minutes from Mykonos Town. |
Your tropical retreats - More Caribbean Ideas - It's all about gin-clear water and idyllic, powdery sand beaches to go with your casually luxurious resort hotel or private villa accommodations. Take your pick of islands – from the laid-back Turks and Caicos, to the the reggae beats of the Dominican Republic, to the surreal cerulean waters of St. Bart's where the ocean meets the sky. And that's just a start. This sun-drenched paradise is also home to tropical rain forests, hidden waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, spectacular diving and snorkeling, world-class golf courses, plus fabulous flats, reef, and offshore fishing. Email Stephen for more information.
After spending two weeks here we understand why people say Chamonix is a "must ski" destination. The oldest skiing area in the French Alps offers some of the world's best expert skiing off the surrounding saw-toothed peaks and shimmering glaciers that rise 12,500 feet above the valley floor. And we love that the area has more of an authentic alpine flair than other ski resorts’ glitz and glamour. This is a dazzling location with off-the-charts views of awe-inspiring mountains everywhere you look, and old world streets packed with side-walk cafes, boutique shops, fine dining restaurants, and lively bars.
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Chamonix, France
Highlights - Five main ski areas accessed via the area’s mini base villages; 50 lifts transport skiers of all abilities to terrain that fits their skills. Les Houches and Le Tour are ideal for beginners and intermediates to enjoy the slopes, plus advanced skiers can find their thrills as well. Sunny side Brevant and La Flegere can accommodate beginners and intermediates as well, but there are plenty of off-piste bowls and couloirs to test expert adrenalin seekers. And ok, if you arrived looking to challenge yourself, then Les Grands Montets is the place. Long steep runs, on and off piste, combine with couloirs and chutes to make you earn your lunch at one of the many slope-side restaurants. And finally, if you want the ultimate bucket list ski adventure, challenge yourself in the area off of the Aiguille du Midi, reached by a two-stage cable car from downtown Chamonix. The views from the top are ridiculous so make sure to have your camera as you gaze into Italy and Switzerland. Then the 8,000+-foot descent on and along the glacier of Vallee Blanche features spectacular mountain scenery dominated by Mont Blanc. Definitely recommended to hire a guide for this spectacular experience. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy an extensive Nordic trail, ski touring and winter paragliding. The Mt. Blanc unlimited ski pass includes Megeve and Les Contamines in France, Courmayeur, Italy, and Verbier, Switzerland.
Highlights - Five main ski areas accessed via the area’s mini base villages; 50 lifts transport skiers of all abilities to terrain that fits their skills. Les Houches and Le Tour are ideal for beginners and intermediates to enjoy the slopes, plus advanced skiers can find their thrills as well. Sunny side Brevant and La Flegere can accommodate beginners and intermediates as well, but there are plenty of off-piste bowls and couloirs to test expert adrenalin seekers. And ok, if you arrived looking to challenge yourself, then Les Grands Montets is the place. Long steep runs, on and off piste, combine with couloirs and chutes to make you earn your lunch at one of the many slope-side restaurants. And finally, if you want the ultimate bucket list ski adventure, challenge yourself in the area off of the Aiguille du Midi, reached by a two-stage cable car from downtown Chamonix. The views from the top are ridiculous so make sure to have your camera as you gaze into Italy and Switzerland. Then the 8,000+-foot descent on and along the glacier of Vallee Blanche features spectacular mountain scenery dominated by Mont Blanc. Definitely recommended to hire a guide for this spectacular experience. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy an extensive Nordic trail, ski touring and winter paragliding. The Mt. Blanc unlimited ski pass includes Megeve and Les Contamines in France, Courmayeur, Italy, and Verbier, Switzerland.
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Stay and Eat - Chamonix’s village is brimming with tons of stores, from designer boutiques to high performance outdoor gear shops. We recommend staying in the town of Chamonix, either in City Centre or Chamonix South. From these central location in the village you are within walking distance of all the amenities, gourmet dining, cool pubs and burger joints, plus easy access to shopping, nightlife, and the bus line to access the valley. For 5-star luxury digs our top recommendations are Hotel Mont-Blanc Chamonix and The Hameau Albert 1er Hotel with it's Michelin recommended dining. Both hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to all the valley ski areas. If you prefer to spread out in a nice apartment our favorite accommodation choice is Le Cristal de Jade Palace. Recently remodeled throughout, this feels more like a residence club than a hotel.
Some of our favorite restaurants in the town of Chamonix include: La Table, Le Panier Des 4 Saisons, La Telecabine, Le Matafan, Atmosphere, Munchie, Le Cap Horn, and La Maison Carrier. And for a killer burger, try Poco Loco. Slope-side, lots of choices at each ski area. Two of our favorites are at Grands Montets ski area - La Cremerie du Glacier and L'Argentero. Best to make reservations at all the restaurants.
Private chalets and apartments: Many options, from luxury to economical spread throughout the valley. Let us know your style and we'll make recommendations.
Getting Here - Just a 60 minute private car ride from Geneva International Airport. Great to combine with a stay in Geneva at one of our favorite lakeside hotels, or at other nearby resorts like Megeve and Verbier.
Custom Travel Planning - We can arrange every aspect of your trip to Chamonix from your hometown and back. Email Stephen to begin planning your personalized adventure.
Some of our favorite restaurants in the town of Chamonix include: La Table, Le Panier Des 4 Saisons, La Telecabine, Le Matafan, Atmosphere, Munchie, Le Cap Horn, and La Maison Carrier. And for a killer burger, try Poco Loco. Slope-side, lots of choices at each ski area. Two of our favorites are at Grands Montets ski area - La Cremerie du Glacier and L'Argentero. Best to make reservations at all the restaurants.
Private chalets and apartments: Many options, from luxury to economical spread throughout the valley. Let us know your style and we'll make recommendations.
Getting Here - Just a 60 minute private car ride from Geneva International Airport. Great to combine with a stay in Geneva at one of our favorite lakeside hotels, or at other nearby resorts like Megeve and Verbier.
Custom Travel Planning - We can arrange every aspect of your trip to Chamonix from your hometown and back. Email Stephen to begin planning your personalized adventure.
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Historical wonders and modern pleasures. Follow in the footsteps of the explorers, artists and royals of centuries past as you travel through Portugal’s six diverse regions.
Whether you’re looking to sip wine in the Douro Valley, sunbathe on the soft sands of the Algarve, travel through time in vibrant Lisbon, enjoy the freshest seafood in Atlantic fishing villages, or all of the above, we will work with you to create the perfect itinerary. Browse our Portugal website page to find out where your journey can take you. Email us for more information: stephen.vletas@protravelinc.com
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Algarve - Southern Portugal, Sun and Sand Delight
From Lagos to Vila Real do San Antonio on the border with Spain, this is our favorite region to enjoy sun and sand, food and wine, golf, tennis and watersports, and a lifestyle that will keep you relaxed and feeling young. Looking for a family vacation, a couples getaway, or a romantic honeymoon; you've come to the right place. We spent two months here in 2021 learning the inside scoop. Some of our favorite hotels include: Vila Vita Parc - Lagoa; Bela Vista - Portimao; Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort; Conrad Algarve - Quinto do Lago; Vila Monte Farm House - Moncarapacho; and Grand House - Vila Real de Santo Antonio.
Get in touch to begin planning your trip: stephen.vletas@protravelinc.com
Get in touch to begin planning your trip: stephen.vletas@protravelinc.com
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Author
Stephen and Kim Vletas
Fly-fishing, skiing, and adventure travel aficionados.
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