lesleymurphy

Travel Tag: Nita Lake Lodge in Whistler, Canada

February 9, 2016 by lesleymurphy 1 Comment

I was lucky enough to spend a few nights here last week during my escape to Canada. Lovely, eh? EH. Nita Lake Lodge might as well be an oversized (77 rooms) bubble of a wonderland. I was trapped inside a snow globe and was more than okay with it as this particular snow globe came with a gym, yoga studio, restaurant, library, cafe (get the berry smoothie) and lounge. Only the best for Canada.

Rest

Do you take your suite lake-facing or non lake-facing? There is no right or wrong answer as all views from Nita Lake are sure to impress. Remember, you’re living in a real-live snow globe here. Take your pick between studio, one-bedroom or two-bedroom.

These are not your average hotel rooms. Let me just add that my studio was incredible in size with full bar, balcony, fireplace and double soaking tub. If you’re looking for a good honeymoon location in the mountains, Nita Lake is the perfect spot to celebrate your recent nuptials at any time of year. It’s quiet and secluded with a romantic vibe in the air.

Relax

Allow me to go back to the spa for a hot second. You don’t have to be a skier to enjoy this boutique lodge on the shores of a glacier-fed lake. Dare I said…come instead for the wellness and relaxation offerings and outdoor hot tubs.

Play

Valley Trail is directly outside the lodge, taking you all the way into the village if you so please. Bike in the summertime or utilize the hotel’s complimentary snow shoes for an outdoor winter work out. I had to imagine it due to the heavy snowfall, but the dock on the lake provides a great jumping off point for water activities such as kayaking and swimming. Oh, and how could I forget. Blackcomb and Whister Mountain are both just a short complimentary shuttle away. Gotta love a destination that’s in season 24/7/365.

Eat

Good thing it’s not bikini season (except that it is, because there’s always a hot tub lurking around the corner daring you to put down that braised short rib and truffle mashed potato dish). Aura Restaurant inside the hotel is packed full of not only these delicious winter staples but also local, fresh ingredients from Pemberton, a farming community just north of Whistler.

I was just going to stop at one foodie picture, but these pancakes…I can’t. They were too good and photogenic not to post.

Before leaving Nita Lake, I kept hearing the same thing over and over: “Wait until you see this place during the summer.” Aw shucks, guess I’ll have to come back for round two. See you in a few months, Whistler!

A Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for Him & Her

February 7, 2016 by lesleymurphy Leave a Comment

“Roses are red, Violets are blue, Valentine’s is in 7 days, yes it’s true!”

What’s your Valentine getting this year? 😉

Top 12 Cultural Hotspots Around Paris, France

January 26, 2016 by lesleymurphy 1 Comment

During my trip to the City of Light, I fell in love with its romance, culture, people, and of course – macarons. Can’t forget those. How can you possibly beat the soaring Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Ladurée — all totally worth the sugar highs and craning neck cramps for the ultimate view, but even at street-level, Paris rises above its own hype. A bustling city at any hour, Paris hums with well-dressed locals, excited foreigners, laid-back cafes and traffic filled streets. For those who love a bit of culture and beauty, the city may be overwhelming with what to take in first. Here are your top 12 things to do and see around Paris.

12. Shop til you drop at Le Marais: Situated in Paris’ 3rd and 4th arrondissements (districts), the Old-World French atmosphere comes alive in the cobble-stoned streets and tiny art galleries and cafes. Die-hard fashionistas should head straight to the designer shops of Rue des Francs-Bourgeois. Word to the wise: don’t waste your time shopping the Champs-Elysées.

11. Take a stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens: During summertime, this warm weather oasis will give you the simplest of Parisian pleasures. From people watching to sunbathing and from picnicking to watching floating sailboats, this is a scene out of a 10/10 rated French film.

10. Make a visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral: This symbolic cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and loved by locals and tourists alike. No matter what you believe in, you cannot deny the holy feeling bursting between its walls.

9. Munch on macarons at Ladurée: Two meringue-like cookies bound together by a delicious ganache might as well be just as famous as the city’s tower. A few patisseries, Ladurée in particular, have been carrying macarons for ages, but recently these have become the hottest treat in town. Debate rages among Parisians over which are best, but decide for yourself and eat your way through Paris.

8. Walk the River Seine: The epitome of romance, adventure and Parisian style can be found by exploring this area of Paris. Many people enjoy taking one of the Bateaux Mouche, or river cruises, down the Seine.

7. Do a Pastry Making Class: My sister and I booked a lovely pastry making class during last year’s visit to the city. Little did we know the entire class would be taught in French – of course! Why wouldn’t it be? We were in their territory, and my college français skills were failing me big time. Even through the communication barrier, we persevered and made some delectable pastries that I most likely can never create again in my lifetime…until the next Parisian pastry making class!

6. See the Saint-Germain-des-Pres Quarter: Ahhhhh. This is an amazing getaway from touristy Paris and a nice spot to bask in areas frequented by Parisians. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of local shopping and eating out on the numerous sidewalk cafes.

5. Visit the Arc de Triomphe: Here, 12 avenues radiate to form that star in which the Arc takes center stage. Climb to its panoramic viewing terrace for some serious views of the city. Yes, the traffic is madness and yes, it’s crawling with tourists, but don’t be deterred. The Arc will thrill anybody. Locals included.

4. Dine at Le Cinq inside Four Seasons Paris: The hotel’s critically acclaimed eatery outshines most Michelin Star restaurants by having been awarded not one, but two stars. The furnishings are grand, the linens fine, the silverware immaculate and the food spectacular. Be sure to read more about my gastronomical experience from Four Seasons Paris here.

3. Explore the Musée d’Orsay: Housed under the roof of one of Paris’s grand old railway stations, the galleries of the Musée D’Orsay contain the world’s largest collection of Impressionist masterpieces by the likes of Cezanne, Monet, Manet, Van Gogh, Degas, Gaugin, and many others. It’s a history lesson at its finest, and you’ll benefit greatly from an afternoon here.

2. Discover the Musée Louvre: Sure, the sheer quantity of art on display is overwhelming, but a trip to Paris isn’t complete without a trip to the Louvre. Home to Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Louvre is considered the world’s greatest art museum, with an unparalleled collection of items covering the full spectrum of art through the ages.

1. Take in the Eiffel Tower: As the #1 landmark in the world, my #1 spot couldn’t go to anything other than the beauty that is the Eiffel Tower. Although you can see the tower from many viewpoints in Paris, you won’t be overwhelmed with the same sensation you receive once you’re standing under this giant four legged structure. If you really want a one-in-a-lifetime experience, head on up to an elegant dinner at Le Jules Verne restaurant. I promise…it won’t disappoint!

From Christchurch to Queenstown: Roadtripping New Zealand’s South Island

January 15, 2016 by lesleymurphy 4 Comments

New Zealand is a country I’ve been fascinated by ever since I sat in the midnight showing of Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. You better believe I watched it on the flight over, undoubtedly giddy as Frodo Baggins filled my screen with all of his glory. But also, I WANTED TO SEE THE SHIRE (located on the North Island). Middle Earth looked unreal (probably because it is), and what an incredible tourism boost for New Zealand for years to come. I can imagine the many ohhhhs and ahhhhs from the cast and crew as they filmed day in and day out. What I can’t image are the many pains of filming in a country where the weather is so unpredictable. Mother Nature can be ruthless. It’s imperative to remember that flexibility is key, and that the sun will come out tomorrow (or in a couple of days at least…)

The Weather

There’s nothing else to say other than we got unlucky, and the weather sucked. That can happen when you travel, and the probability only increases the more you travel. I was overdue. The fog and precipitation rained on my New Zealand parade. There’s a fix for this kind of situation. It’s called staying longer.

The Itinerary

We started our NZ adventure in Christchurch, flying in from Australia just after midnight. We hit the road 8 hours later after some mediocre sleep in a queen bed with three girls. There are worse things in life, but it sure didn’t provide the best night sleep when you have a road trip in front of you. Keep in mind we were driving on the other side of the road, which required heavy concentration, I was putting all trust in our beat-up Ford Focus. Eshhhhh.

Day 1 – Drive from Christchurch to Awatuna

Stop 1 (estimated drive time: 4 hours) Punakaiki – See the pancake rocks and blowholes (or don’t, it wasn’t incredibly exciting). It was a very meehhhhh activity, mostly due to the heavy fog and the fact that I though I was going to see rocks in the shape of pancakes…not the case. I should also mention it’s free. Once you’re there, you’re on the west side of New Zealand. The drive down the coast should be stunning, assuming it’s not overcast and grey (still stunning).

Stop 2 (estimated drive time: 1.5 hours) Hokitika – This hippie-esque beach town hosts an unreal sunset from the sand. The Hokitika gorge is about 20 minutes from the city center (there are probably 4 blocks so you can’t miss it), but we opted for a different activity. What sounds cooler than a glow worm cave?!? NOTHING. So we sought out to find it and came up empty handed. It straight up doesn’t exist anymore, so don’t waste your time. We then bought a few bottles of wine and drove 30 minutes to our BnB in Awatuna.

Day 2 – Drive from Awatuna to Wanaka

Stop 1 (Estimated drive time: 4 hours) Franz Josef Glacier – Screw the glow worm cave. I think I’d opt for a heli ride to the top of the glacier with Fox & Franz Heli-Services any day. Well whadduyaknow. It was cancelled due to weather. I’d suggest the 30 minute Twin Glacier Ride if timing doesn’t permit for the two hour heli-hike.

Stop 2 (Estimated drive time: 30 min) Mirror Lakes near Fox Glacier – This is about a 20 minute walk from the car where you’ll see mountains reflected on a lake. We didn’t bother since our weather didn’t allow for any kind of reflections.

Stop 3: Knights Point (on the side of the highway with an amazing scenic overlook should it be a clear day) – Many waterfalls can be seen on the side of the road, and don’t worry – you’ll see signs for them.

Stop 4 (Estimated drive time: 2 hrs) Blue pools – Had the sun been even a little bit shining, we would have most certainly stopped to look at the Blue Pools (which are pretty self-explanatory). Due to cancelled heli-hikes and bad weather, we ate our feelings instead.

Stop 5 (Estimated drive time: 30 min) Wanaka – This small city is ridiculously good-looking and tucked away among the mountains on New Zealand’s South Island. It hasn’t been overrun by tourists (cough, Queenstown) and has so many kind, laid-back Kiwis (locals from NZ, not fruit). When we woke up the next morning in Wanaka, we finally found the sun! T’was about time, Mother Nature.

Wanaka Activities: Skydive Wanaka, kayak on the lake, Rob Roy Glacier Hike, Lavender Farm

Day 3 – Drive from Wanaka to Queenstown
On the Crown Range to Queenstown (Estimated drive time: 1hr) – Queenstown is the Queen of New Zealand. She is beautiful, jaw-dropping, and in a way, she looks fake. The sunsets I witnessed here produced an entire portion of the color wheel.

Queenstown Activities: Trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound via helicopter with Heliworks (or the estimated drive time is 4 hours).

Do the luge
Grab lunch and a beer at World Bar
Do the world’s largest swing
Go mountain biking
Hike to the top of Queenstown hill
Go paragliding
Ride the gondola to The Ledge Bungee Jump

Bars: Rhinos, Buffalo Club, Bungalow, Cowboys, Redrock, Searle Lane. I cannot attest to any of them. I simply added suggestions for my study abroaders and bar hoppers.

Hotel Suggestion: The Rees Hotel is beautiful and situation directly on the water providing unreal, real views.

If you have any suggestions for New Zealand, list them below! Someday, I’ll be returning for more than just four nights on the South Island.

The Best 16 Places To Visit In 2016

January 11, 2016 by lesleymurphy 9 Comments

Palermo, Italy

Noted as the largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily (southern Italy) has it all including history, miles of coastline and lots of wine. Although Palermo may like a rock kicked by Italy’s boot on a map (image to the right), Palermo is far from being lost and forgotten. Unstable for much of its past, today the mix of cultures introduced throughout the region yields a beautiful mix of architectural styles, foods and activities. A city of colors, bustling markets and beaches galore, Palermo has not yet been tourist-ized, so bring along your handy translator or come ready with a basic understanding of Italian. Fun fact: There’s a waterslide leading directly into the sea here. I’m just going to leave that there.

Kyoto, Japan

With jaw-dropping views and Buddhist temples, Kyoto is what dreams are made of. Located in the Kyoto Basin, a valley surrounded by mountains on three sides, the natural scenery is endless. The city was also designed following the traditional principles of feng shui and the balance of yin and yang, so take a stop here to find your inner peace. One of the best-preserved cities in Japan and home to over 2,000 religious temples, consider Kyoto as a nice side trip on your way to the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. Actually, scratch that. Plan a trip for 2016.

Canggu, Bali

Black sand beaches, tropical cafes, breathtakingly blue ocean views and beach yoga? Paradise awaits! Canggu is one of the best beachfronts in Bali, hands down. A rural, still-developing resort town, you won’t find heards of tourists here, which is a major plus. Had enough beach bumming? Take a jaunt into town and check out the hundreds of rice patties.

Hangzhou, China

“There is paradise in heaven, on earth there is Hangzhou.” Not only do song lyrics vocalize the beautiful state of Hangzhou, but Marco Polo promptly declared the city “beyond dispute the finest and noblest place in the world.” This was enough to peak my interest.

Only an hour from Shanghai via train, many locals and foreigners venture to Hangzhou for some peace, quiet and privacy. Although 2 1/2 million people live in the surrounding area, Hangzhou is known for its ancient tea plantations, lush vegetation and close proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of West Lake. It’s a big city in many regards, sure, but head outside the popular center for a fairytale village setting that surrounds its inhabitants with bamboo jungles and verdant valleys.

Maldives

A private bungalow on the water? Hello fairytale. Never let me go. Honeymooners travel far and wide to arrive at their very own hut on the water where these magical islands in the middle of the Indian Ocean reside. Seeing photos invites an escape, a reminder that beauty exists in all corners of the earth, and that there are actual real live people from here. Could you imagine? Out of all the times you’ve been asked in life, “Where are you from?” you could’ve answered “The Maldives.” Better luck next time.

The Maldives are known as the lowest country on the planet with an average ground level elevation of five feet above sea level and a peak elevation of eight feet – the major factor of why it’s a collectively sinking ship. Literally, the Maldives are sinking thanks to global warming. Go now before this paradise is under water!

St. John, US Virgin Islands

St. John National Park is surrounded by 170 acres of palm trees and pristine beaches. The place exudes low-key vibes and old-school character, two aspects that keep a heavy return guest rate on the up and up. I can certainly see why with the allure of countless beaches, turquoise waters, picturesque sailboats on the horizon and tropical cocktails a-plenty brings people wanting more. The number one reason may be something entirely different – Americans don’t need a passport to visit as it’s U.S. territory.

Havana, Cuba

On July 20th, the U.S. and Cuba reopened their embassies in Havana and D.C., heralding a “new chapter” in relations after a half-century of hostility. Travel restrictions have eased and Cuba has been removed from the U.S. terror blacklist, making the island eligible to attend international conferences, have better access to global markets and be involved in world political decisions. As the travel embargo has not yet been lifted for American travelers, we must contact an organization that sponsors licensed people-to-people trips and participate in their itinerary. Conscious Cuba is who you want to contact.

Queensland, Australia

Queensland is an Australian state covering the continent’s northeast region with a coastline stretching nearly 4,350 miles. It’s home to the Great Barrier Reef. Need I say more? No, probably not, but I will. With bragging rights of housing the most popular beaches in Australia as well as waterfalls and the pristine Whitsunday Islands, it’s no wonder that Australia was marked the top destination of 2016 by Conde Nast Traveler. They’re calling 2016 the Year of Australia. I guess that makes me ahead of the game.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Did I just teleport into the movie Frozen? By 2050, I hope the tech all-stars have come up with a way where we can jump into a picture and just, be there. Here, in Slovenia, is really what I mean. This might be my number one choice. I’ve been seeing more and more photos of this magical place recently. Sure, it looks freezing, but who cares what the temp reads inside a real-life fairytale. Places like this actually exist. Do you wanna…build a snowman? Maybe? Hopefully it won’t be 2050 before I can cross this off the bucket list. Summer is just as beautiful as winter here. Gotta love places that never go out of season.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

A populous hub of culture, Rio is the host of the 2016 summer Olympics – reason enough to add it to your list of travels for this upcoming year. But if you need more motivation than that, take into consideration that it is the home of one of the new seven wonders of the world- the towering 2,300 Christ the Redeemer statue. It’s a sore subject since I’ve been to Rio twice now, and I’ve tried to see the Christ statue TWICE now, and today, as I write this, I’ve seen him ZERO times now. Weather can be a bitch sometimes. One day, Cristo, we will meet.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Much like the sunshine state of California dreaming, the Galapagos Islands are in-season year round. Ahh, to be in eternal summer! The Galapagos Islands are 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, so you’ll first need to arrive in the mainland as flights (go with LATAM Airlines) leave from the capital city of Quito as well as Guayaquil to then make their way to the Galapagos Islands. You’ll see more Galápagos penguins today than at any time in the past 15 years, and these are among the rarest penguins in the world. I saw two with Quasar Expeditions in 2014 – a highlight of the trip!

San Pedro, Belize

Belize is a place where tourists become travelers and where schedules are optional. The laid-back vibe of San Pedro draws in many travelers world-wide to hang out on and under its turquoise waters. The diving is world-class and the catamarans are ready. Don’t forget the other side of Belize full of lush jungles and ancient ruins. Come hungry for seafood as thoughts of fried conch fritters still dance in my head. Same with the daiquiris. Nom nom nom.

Scoresby Sund, Greenland

Greenland is not Green. Am I blowing your mind yet? Didn’t we all learn this from The Might Ducks already? Greenland is covered with ice, and Iceland is very nice…

If you’re looking for a chilly escape, look no further than this arctic getaway. Located between the Artic and Atlantic Oceans, you may question what a population of less than 60,000 does for fun. Try whale watching, dog sledding, iceberg hiking and Arctic Winter Games hosting. Fun fact: The iceberg that took down the Titanic most likely came from Greenland’s Ilulissat Icefjord. So let’s all go take lots of Arctic cruises now. We love you, Jack. Always and forever.

Maui, Hawaii

Voted as being the best island in the world for more than a dozen years, you’ll want to visit Maui if you’re a marine life fanatic or golf enthusiast. Maui offers 14 top notch golf courses, many of which were designed by golf legends themselves, such as Arnold Palmer. If the thought of golf is a swing and a miss for you, there’s also plenty of culture and art to discover with live music and festivals happening on a regular basis. And then, of course, there are the beaches, the unforgettable sunsets, the private cabanas, the hikes, the waterfalls, the heli rides. Okay I’m done. For now at least.

Banff National Park, Alberta

While U.S. National Park visits have been on the rise in 2015, Banff and its tourist attractions hit it out of the park. Located in the heart of the Rockies, you’ll stumble upon dense forest, glaciers and ice fields during your hike. At the end of the day, slip into any one of three hot springs for an au natural night of relaxation in the steamy hot mineral water. Your body will thank you in the morning. Don’t miss Lake Louise, pictured above. You may or may not have seen it on the hit reality show The Bachelor 😉

Jerusalem, Israel

With all the conflict going on in the Middle East, it’s natural for people to shy away from traveling here. Tip: Don’t always believe the media. From the beaches of Tel Aviv to the history of Haifa and from the markets of Akko to the fortification of Masada, all of my senses were blown. Jerusalem is strategically located between the Mediterranean and the Dead Sea, two of the most beautiful/interesting bodies of water on the planet. Few experiences can rival floating weightless on water. Go for the religious experience, the food, the beaches, the men. Whatever you do, just go. I felt safe the entire journey.

Over to you! What are your must-see travel destination this year?

Travel Tag: The Breakers Resort at Palm Beach

January 6, 2016 by lesleymurphy 1 Comment

The Decor

First known as The Palm Beach Inn, the hotel opened on January 16, 1896 by railroad tycoon Henry Flagler. As I pulled into the historic oceanfront Italian Renaissance resort and rode down the expansive brick drive, it looked just as it had in pictures, except this week it was decked in bright bows, white lights, green garland and Lilly.

Walking into the lobby, I immediately noticed the breathtaking dome and its magnificent accents including 160,000 sparkling lights. When CNN adds you to its ‘Hotels that go all out for Christmas’ roster, you’re doing something right. As for the weather, Palm Beach experiences an endless summer, so a lit-up palm tree was quite normal for these parts. As for my ensemble, it wasn’t like I was walking around in a winter wonderland donning Uggs and a parka. In 85 degree weather, I happily had on Lilly prints as I was invited by the team to see what Palm Beach was all about. So far, so good. Something tells me Sofia Vergara thought the same when she wed here a couple months ago.

The Room

I arrived to The Breakers at nearly dusk, so it wasn’t until the following morning that I could properly see the view that my oceanfront room provided.

Vitamin D and vitamin sea, you are all I need in life. Oh, and the mini bar, too. Allow me to alter the saying – mini-bars are like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get. Will there be Pringles? What about Snickers? A Butterfinger and mixed nuts if you’re lucky. Same goes with the Grey Goose. I’m happy to say The Breakers had them all – and so much more. The marble bath and cloud-esque bed deserve shout-outs as well.

The Cuisine

This isn’t going to bode well for my new year’s diet. New year, new me amiright? Let’s get started. HMF (named for The Breakers’ founding father, Henry Morrison Flagler) completely WOWed my tastebuds with its bold cocktails, namely ‘The Redhead’ with premium lemon vodka, blood orange liqueur, cranberry juice and lime foam. The establishment is decadent, so take a seat for the number one place in Palm Beach to see and be seen.

Other noteworthy establishments include The Circle for breakfast where you can eat anything your stomach desires. For me, that’s basically the menu in its entirety. I’ll have the pancakes, waffles, eggs benedict, granola with yogurt, glazed donuts, biscuits and gravy…you know what, hold the gravy. And tomorrow I won’t be caught dead in a bikini.

The Seafood Bar has bar counters made out of aquariums. It’s just about the coolest thing I’ve ever seen. Table for one? Never! You’ll always have a fish to join you. Then there’s the Beach Club Restaurant making it hard to choose a lunch order. Will I cave for the lobster roll today? Probably. I can’t forget about Echo, which resides offsite with some of the best sushi I’ve ever eaten.

The Amenities

Spa. Gym. Shopping. Beachfront. Poolside. Tell me, why would you need to leave the premises? With golf for dad and tennis for mom, the kids can hang out at Camp onsite. Who needs Orlando? What even is Disney World? I’m pretty sure the chefs here know how to whip up a delectable Mickey Mouse waffle. Also, I don’t even know how many shops are located at The Breakers. I lost count, but the area resembles a beautiful promenade secluded in one corner of the property complete with beautiful alcoves, gardens and landscaping. You could probably burn off just as many calories walking into each one as I did at my sunrise spinning class (all without having to hear your alarm at the crack of dawn). Win-win.

More than an “amenity,” the Flagler Club is another establishment entirely. Situated within The Breakers resort, the Club is its own boutique hotel, offering a more intimate 25-room collection of guest rooms and suites. The little hotel within the bigger hotel is an option for those who’d like more privacy.

The Experience

Let me end by saying a three-night stay will never do at this astonishing hotel. The service was impeccable and personal from each and every staff member I came across. The interiors (and holiday decor!) cannot be beat. The level of comfort was beyond pleasant. I’ll most definitely return for a second dose of paradise, perhaps during Christmas ’16.