Travel and Gratitude
Image: Courtesy of Ghoha Hills, Savuti, Botswana
Dear Friends and Travellers,
The privilege of travel for pleasure, the seeking out of places in the world where we feel alive and connected - this is the stuff of dreams. Dreams that have been set aside repeatedly during a year and a half of restrictions and uncertainty. But, as our friends in the US celebrate Thanksgiving, and as many of us prepare for trips in December, there is a glimmer of hope. Gratitude to spend time with our loved ones and friends and make memories.
Some of us are fortunate enough to have travelled already. We embraced the paperwork and mask-wearing and ventured out to Italy, Portugal, France, the Greek Islands and the vast open plains of the Maasai Mara. Many chose this summer to stay closer to home and took the opportunity to see places they may have overlooked in lieu of more exotic destinations - they were not disappointed.
This fall, Belinda and I were back out doing what we love – checking out new places that we will recommend to you. In September, I spent two weeks exploring Greece, visiting iconic Mykonos and Santorini, but also the lesser known islands of Paros, Naxos, Fologandros, Milos and Sifnos. The swimming, the blue blue sea, sailing and ending every day in seaside taverna was magical.
Belinda was out discovering the beauty of the Okanagan Valley vineyards, mountain towns and the overwhelming natural beauty of our very own British Columbia. Afterwards, she joined friends in Hawaii for a "Big Birthday" (how many of those went unmarked in the past 18 months?!). The indigenous culture of the Big Island, endless deserted black beaches, swimming with Manta Rays, cliff-side hikes and an ancient Hawaiian renewal ritual at sunrise - this is how birthdays should be celebrated.
Testimonials From the Road
Image: Courtesy of Sarara Camp, Kenya
KENYA
The trip was amazing. Each lodge was so unique and beautiful, our guides were phenomenal, food delicious. We learned so much about the animals and local culture--it was fascinating for us. A very memorable vacation!
- DS & JK and Family, Malibu – Kenya Family Safari
Image: Courtesy of Six Senses Douro Valley, Portugal
PORTUGAL
Our compliments to the chef, as per the expression. The trip you arranged for us was terrific, as were ALL the arrangements. Your choice of hotels, tours, transportation, restaurants, were much appreciated. We would recommend both the destination and Askari to any and all. Again, thanks to you and your team.
- SE & LE, Chicago – Lisbon & the Duoro Valley, Portugal
Image: Courtesy of The Lodge at Blue Sky, Utah
UTAH
We all had a wonderful time…so many exciting adventures and activities. The facility was beautiful, the rooms are among the best we’ve ever stayed in. I can’t thank you enough for planning my excellent surprise Yurt birthday dinner. Best to you and many thanks for you excellent planning and follow through.
NJ & LJ & Family – Los Angeles - Multi-Generation Birthday, Utah
Image: Courtesy of Splendido, Portofino
ITALY
Fantastic! We had a splendid time – the 4th of July celebration in Como was fabulous.
CT & KT, Chicago– Lake Como, Capri & Rome
Image: Courtesy of Sonora Resort, British Columbia
CANADA
@askaritravel great planning Muriel – thank you!
LW & CK and Family, Toronto – Haida Gwaii, Sonora & Pacific Northwest
HOW IS THE TRAVEL BUSINESS?
Many of you have asked how the travel business is doing. The short answer is that thanks to science and vaccines we are far ahead of where we were a year ago. Though it certainly is not perfect, it is getting easier – travel policies are being streamlined, more countries are opening, testing is readily available – and we are talking to people about travel. For that we are grateful!
We are busy and are thrilled to be talking about trips with you and to our many partners worldwide. As a result of the Covid-19 hiatus many travel suppliers have used this time to refurbish, rethink, build new properties and add new experiences.
WINTER BREAK
Image: Courtesy of Cap Juluca, Anguilla
There is nothing like the Caribbean for a winter getaway – sunshine, short flights and a change of scenery. Why not Anguilla for its island vibe and renowned restaurants?
LOOKING AHEAD - PLANNING FOR 2022 & 2023
We have re-booked trips that were postponed and we have confirmed new winter, spring and summer adventures for 2022 and 2023.
For travel in 2022 & 2023 the combination of pent-up demand and postponed bookings being reconfirmed, means that availability for sought after rooms will be tighter. We have said this in precious newsletters – if you want a trip to look forward to get it in place now. Bookmark it with confirmed space even if it is still months away. Often there is no financial commitment to hold space, and booking early means we can get you precisely what you want.
SPRING BREAK
Image: Courtesy of Machaba Safaris, Botswana
For those yearning for adventures farther afield, there are incentives for you to go to Africa. Long stay offers with multiple free nights are still in affect until April - you might be surprised at the comparable cost of a fully inclusive African safari versus a week in the Caribbean.
EUROPE
Our European partners have not rested on their laurels – there are beautiful properties both old and new waiting for us in the Spring, Summer and Fall.
Images: Left: La Bastide de Marie, Provence, Centre: La Peschiatera, Puglia, Right: The Fife Arms, Scotland
And lastly – can it be that the world has too much chocolate? Exporters in Ghana report the country has had its largest ever harvest whilst the pandemic shut down major markets such as airport gift shops. So there is a chocolate glut – let’s all do our share to help with this!
To our American friends Happy Thanksgiving. To our travellers, friends and partners scattered across the globe, thank you for all you have done for your communities, for conservation and for strangers in need.
Best regards from all of us,
Muriel