A SELF DRIVE ADVENTURE IN CHINA

NEW YORK, NY (02/14) If you could only do one trip to China in your lifetime, Steppes Travel has that trip all laid out for you. Spend the first few days in the ancient cities of Beijing and Xian. The second half of the trip is a self-drive in a small convoy in Yunnan, where you will experience the real Shangri-La. Rates range from $6,872 to $9,592 for a 10 to 15 day itinerary.

The first part of the trip takes in iconic China. No trip would be complete without time in Beijing where highlights include the Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square, The Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the famous Peking Opera and more.  From Beijing, take the high speed train to Xian where the highlight is a visit to the amazing Army of Terracotta Warriors.   

The adventure comes on the second half of the itinerary. Fly to Kunming to join the others in your convoy.  Yunnan, in the southwest of China, is largely undiscovered by the outside world, but it has one of the best road networks in China.  Driving is relaxed as you pass through stunning scenery.The Yangtze, the Mekong and the Salween Rivers descend from the Tibetan Plateau into lush valleys.  Wander the cobbled streets of Shaxi.  Drive from Shaxi to Tacheng along the Yangtze.  Tacheng lies between the valley carved by the Yangtze and that carved by the Mekong. At Shigu, the Yangtze makes a 120 degree turn and seems to flow uphill. 

Pass through the Meili Snow Mountain range, a sub-range of the Hengduan Mountains, marking the boundary between Tibet and Yunnan.  End your journey in Shangri-La, home of the largest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan.

Steppes arranges accommodation along the self-drive adventure in the Songtsam Lodges in Yunnan. Each of these lodges is based on a traditional Tibetan dwelling within Tibetan farming villages and each is loaded with charm and is very comfortable. The lodges have been built with the spectacular views in mind. Delicious dining takes advantage of the local fare, consisting of fresh vegetables and fruits, local ham and rainbow trout. 

Steppes is offering two set departures from Kunming on June 27 and September 18, 2014.  If these dates are inconvenient, Steppes will organize a bespoke driving vacation for you and a small group of friends at another time. The best time to travel in Yunnan is in the spring and in the autumn.

For more information on the Self Drive Adventure in China, visit www.steppestravel.com or call toll free 1 855 203 7885.

STEPPES OFFERS A PRIVATE SEA SAFARI AROUND REMOTE INDONESIA ISLANDS

NEW YORK, NY (02/14) Steppes Travel, whose watchword is “Travel Beyond the Ordinary,” is offering an exclusive cruise to explore the stunning and remote islands of Eastern Indonesia on Tiger Blue to explore Komodo, the Spice Islands (also known as Malaku Islands) and Raja Ampat.  Adventurers can go on a set departure (see dates below) or take an opportunity for a family or a group of friends to charter Tiger Blue for a private cruise. Either way, it is a trip that few humans have ever made.

Here are beautiful sandy beaches, world class diving and snorkeling, and diverse marine and wildlife.  The seven-night cruise starts at $3,042 per person sharing, with a minimum of 12 persons.  Last minute travelers who sail before February 28 will save $265 per person on the Raja Ampat tour.

Tiger Blue is a timber phinisi sailing yacht, hand-built by craftsmen from Sulawesi.  A phinisi is a traditional Indonesian two-mast sailing ship historically and still widely used for local transportation, cargo and fishing within the Indonesian archipelago.  Tiger Blue has four meticulously appointed, air-conditioned en suite cabins.  A crew of eight includes the expedition leader, dive master and executive chef.  Asian and western menus are tailored to guests’ preferences.

Justin Wateridge, managing director of Steppes, explains:  “Until recently, Indonesia has mostly been an unknown destination for tourism.  This tour enables us the chance to experience life at sea in a very graceful, comfortable vessel and to explore the beautiful islands of Eastern Indonesia with their diverse bird and wild life, gentle hiking opportunities and world class dive sites.  Most of these islands are only accessible by boat.  The cruise is very laid back and passengers can do as much or as little as they like.”

The Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompasses three large islands and 26 smaller ones.  It is the home of the Komodo Dragon, the world’s largest lizard.  The Park has been named as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.  Raja Ampat is known for fantastic diving sites with natural underwater beauty and diverse marine life.  The Spice Islands (Malaku) features a mountainous terrain with several active volcanos.  Its tropical rainforest climate allows for luxuriant vegetation. 

Guests can opt for the set departures which begin and finish in the same port or a Journey of Discovery which starts in one port and finishes in another.  For more information or a detailed itinerary, contact: enquiry@steppestravel.com or visit: www.steppestravel.com

SET DEPARTURES 2014
10 - 17 Jan (Raja Ampat)
31 Jan - 7 Feb (Raja Ampat)
16 -23 May (Komodo)
7 - 14 Sep ( Komodo)
17-24 Sep ( Komodo Journey of Discovery) 

LA BAMBA DE ARECO –A WORLD OF CONTRASTS

NEW YORK, NY (02/14) A little more than an hour from Buenos Aires in the heart of Argentina’s tranquil Pampas countryside, lies La Bamba de Areco, a unique experience awaiting travelers who seek the authentic and the truly different.  One of the oldest estancias in the country, it was recently renovated as a boutique hotel with attention paid to every detail.  From the luxurious accommodation to the celebration of the Gaucho tradition, La Bamba de Areco will awe and relax at the same time.

La Bamba de Areco is nestled in the midst of a magnificent park off the El Camino Real (the road to the north).  Here, you can watch a Polo match, view a horse whisperer work his magic through superlative horsemanship, ride horses, take a carriage ride, lounge by the pool, go mountain biking, learn about the life of the Gaucho, go fly-fishing, and have a massage.   Enjoy exquisite Argentinian cuisine, including mate (special tea)tasting and a true asado (Argentine barbeque) in the vine-covered outdoor dining room.   Indulge in the breathtaking beauty of the Argentinian night sky with a state-of-the-art telescope.  Stay for a while in this paradise or take a brief break as an overnight or day trip from Buenos Aires. 

The colonial style ensemble is approached via an avenue of ancient plane trees off of a dirt road.  La Bamba de Areco houses rooms and suites spread throughout three buildings, with several reception rooms, dining room, library, bar, billiards room, massage room and a boutique where local artwork and leather and silver goods are sold.  The 11 air-conditioned guest rooms and suites are furnished with antique colonial furniture, dark wooden floors, local textiles, and South American art that adds a smart, modern look.  Each has been named after a famous polo pony.  All have views of the stunning countryside and no phones or televisions are there to disturb the romantic atmosphere.

Today, La Pulperia, the oldest building at Le Bamba de Areco, is a luxurious retreat for reading, relaxing or having a glass of wine.  Be enchanted by its charming history.  The building served as a shelter for horses and carriages, hence the name La Pulperia, meaning stables.  It was later converted into an inn where the gauchos would gather to sing, dance and dine.

La Bamba de Areco also serves as the base for the international polo team that bears its name and has two of the best fields in Argentina.  Guests may watch the team play here during the polo season. 

The spacious stables that house the owner’s 18 polo ponies is newly built.  But with the careful attention the owner paid to historical accuracy, it is difficult to detect the difference between the stables and the older buildings.  Walls were painted with traditional blends of pigment and cow’s blood, true to the region’s heritage.

Locally sourced regional food is a major feature of a stay at La Bamba de Areco.  Homemade pastry, croissants and pains au chocolat, and homemade jams highlight breakfast.  Lunch comprises empanadas, traditional asados with beef, lamb or pork, pancakes with dulce de leche and wines from Mendoza.  A more formal, three course dinner with chicken or filet mignon and homemade sorbets ends the day.  Meals may be enjoyed with other guests or in private.

La Bamba de Areco deftly combines total comfort, elegant décor and fine food against a spectacular landscape, magnificent horses, unbroken traditions, and historic architecture.  It is the best of many worlds. 

Rates start at $580 from May 1 to August 31, 2014 and $700 from September 1 to April 30, 2014, per room per night sharing.  A rate for a day stay is $140 in the low season and $180 in the high season.  Rates include accommodation, meals, drinks, horseback riding, pool, mountain biking, trekking, badminton, bird watching, fishing, carriage trips, and bocha. 

For reservations or additional information on La Bamba de Areco, visit www.labambadeareco.com or call 011 54 11 4519 4996.  Email reservations@labambadeareco.com

WALK THROUGH THE REMOTE AND CULTURALLY RICH PATHS OF THE ITALIAN ALPS

NEW YORK, NY (01/2014) On Foot Holidays, a specialist in self-guided walking tours that stands out for its unique and carefully designed routes through remote areas of Europe, offers a seven-night journey to the Italian Alps’ dramatic rocky mountain chain, the Dolomites. You can take this tour anytime during July, August or September. Once you choose your set off date, On Foot will create a detailed itinerary and arrange your stay in typical inns and boutique hotels. While walking with your partner, friends or solo, On Foot’s staff will transfer your luggage from town to town so you can enjoy a hands-free excursion.

The Dolomites (from remote South Tyrol to sophisticated Cortina) is of medium- hard difficulty to walk with three to six hours of walking per day. Combining the most attractive areas of this World Natural Heritage site, the tour will take you not only to explore the highly distinctive mountain landscapes, but also to experience the rich Tyrolean culture.

The Dolomites, famous for their dramatic vertical and pale-colored peaks, are among the most attractive mountain landscapes in the world. Route designer and ten-year walking expert of the area, On Foot’s Isabelle Basso, ensures the journey is full of unforgettable landscapes and experiences.

Stroll through the dreaming meadows of the South Tyrol, spend a night in an isolated mountain refuge, tour the distinguished Tre Cime Circuit and enjoy the picturesque scenery the Lake at Misurina offers. The tour ends in worldwide known gourmet destination, Cortina, where you’ll be delighted by exceptional dining. Throughout the whole trip you will experience the gastronomic richness of this region; enjoy fresh milk from mountain herds and Italian wine from Veneto. From dumplings to pasta in a week, your palate will be exposed to both German-Alpine and Italian-Alpine cooking.

Rates for seven nights per person sharing are from $1,400 for the early July holidays and include accommodation, breakfast daily, six evening meals, detailed itinerary and supporting material and luggage transfers. 

For more information, and questions regarding customized variations of the trip and low/high season prices, contact On Foot Holidays at +44 1722 322 652 or visit www.onfootholidays.co.uk

STEPPES TRAVEL’S ULTIMATE CENTRAL AMERICAN HOLIDAY: MUKUL BEACH, GOLF & SPA

NEW YORK, N.Y. (01/2014) One of the “must” destinations for 2014 is Central America. For those who like to be first on their block, Steppes Travel, known for identifying and customizing tours of the world’s most remarkable places, is offering bespoke trips to the new Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa, one of the most luxurious resorts on the planet. Located on Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast north of San Juan des Sur, Mukul (the Mayan word for secret) takes luxury to a stratospheric level with a gorgeous private beach, capacious villas, 24-hour butler service, helicopter transfers, cigar and rum rooms, and a Spa that comprises no fewer than six buildings. Rates from $550 per night for a Bohio Mountain view room with double occupancy.

But Steppes’ Central American expert Beth Collins advises, “Mukul is not just for adults – the whole family is welcome here. Accommodations for ‘Kul’ Kids aged 0 to12 are complimentary, if sharing with their parents.  The resort is completely geared up for families, offering professional daycare, adventure programs, beachcombing, monkey viewing, movie nights and much more.”

The resort of Mukul sits along a stunning four-mile stretch of pristine, white sandy beach. There are 37 guest accommodations: Beach Villas range from 955 square feet to 2,620 square feet, with the Bohios rooms perched dramatically on the hillside among the lush canopy of the rain forest. All villas offer inside/outside living with wrap around balconies and private plunge pools of varying sizes.

For the ultimate getaway with family or friends, there is the house of all houses for rent -- Casona Don Carlos, home of Mukul owner Don Carlos Pellas (one of the top 50 most influential people in Latin America). The Pellas’ four-bedroom residence and large private swimming pool comes with 20,000 feet of ocean front and a palapa (traditional Latin American shelter roofed with palm leaves or branches) that soars 80 feet high.

Golfers can play endless rounds on the exquisite oceanfront course designed by celebrated Scottish designer David McLay Kidd.  For those who just want to wind down, the Spa offers healing therapies from Japan, India and Turkey.

Steppes Travel will handle arrangements to the minute.  Email enquiry@steppestravel.com; Toll-free: 1-855-352-7606

AUSTRALIS OFFERS FREE AIR FROM SANTIAGO FOR CRUISES IN FEBRUARY AND MARCH

SANTIAGO, Chile (01/2014) –Expedition cruise operator Australis announces free air round trip between Santiago, Chile, and the ports of Punta Arenas, Chile and Ushuaia, Argentina. The airline savings of approximately $900 applies to four-, five-, and seven-night cruises booked for February and March.

For the four-night itinerary fly from Santiago to the departure point for the cruise in Punta Arenas, Chile. The cruise ends in Ushuaia, Argentina, where travelers will fly to Santiago via Buenos Aires. Rates for the cruise start at $2,410 per person sharing, depending on the cabin. Choose from the following departures: February 22 and 26 and March 1, 6, 8, 13 and 29.

The five-night itinerary is a new Tierra del Fuego by Land and Sea launch. Begin and end in Punta Arenas.  Rates for the cruise start at $2,815 per person sharing, depending on the cabin. Choose from the following departures: February 5, March 8, March 23, March 24 and April 7.

The seven night itinerary is a round trip cruise.  The trip will begin and end in Punta Arenas. Ushuaia is the halfway point. Rates for the cruise start at $3,958 per person sharing, depending on the cabin. Choose from the following departures: February 3, March 6, March 8 and March 29.

The cruise is an all-inclusive experience and includes accommodation, all meals, an open bar, shore excursions and on board entertainment. The deal is good as long as supplies last. For more information, visit www.australis.com/landing-enero/ticket-aereo-incluido_en.html.

FROM LAKE CONSTANCE TO THE FOOTHILLS OF THE ALPS, EXPLORE AUSTRIA LIKE NEVER BEFORE

New York, NY (1/2014) On Foot Holidays, the tour operator that creates off the beaten path walking tours throughout Europe, offers a seven-night journey to explore Austria. You will be able to choose your set-off date, while On Foot staff takes care of the rest of the planning, arranging your stay in authentic and traditional family-run hotels and transferring your luggage by van from village to village.  From Lake Constance to Damüls, you will enjoy a hands-free walk through magnificent areas of the Bregenzerwald, including Bregenz, Lingenau, Schwarzenberg, Bezau, Schönenbach, and Mellau.

Austria (Lake Constance and the foothills of the Alps) is of medium difficulty to walk, with four to five and a half hours of walking per day.  With your partner, friends, or even solo, adventure your way through the meticulously designed On Foot trails. Put together by a “Route Advisor”, in this case local architect Peter Münch, the route ensures to be rich in design and culture as you pass through landscapes of meadows, woods and charming villages. On Foot staff will also provide you comprehensible maps, walking directions and detailed itineraries.

This tour is described by previous On Foot clients as “a real walking gem”.  Be amazed by magnificent over 6000 ft peaks and enjoy the most spectacular views. Also, if you are lucky enough, you might get a glimpse of white fresh snow on the very top of the mountains, an amazing contrast to the surrounding vibrant green pastures. To enable exploration of remote valleys without arduous climbs, and also to reach the top of Damüls bowl, cable cars are available and included in the tour package.

Rates for seven nights per person sharing are from $1,246 and include accommodation, breakfast daily, six traditional and hearty evening meals made of locally produced food, detailed itinerary and supporting material and luggage transfers.  To ensure good weather conditions for walking, the tour is only available from June to September.

For more information, and questions regarding customized variations of the trip contact On Foot Holidays at +44 1722 322 652 or visit www.onfootholidays.co.uk