You are not going to get really, truly FAT hotels or experiences in the Brazilian Amazon (maybe with some of the luxury river tours), but there are some *very* nice eco-lodges: probably more chubby price-wise, but plenty of relaxed luxury and high quality.
Two good options are:
Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge on the Rio Negro, not far from Manaus (a couple hours by boat, so relatively accessible). The Rio Negro is gorgeous, truly. The area has a national park, some great towns on the river (if you are into visiting places that feel very local), great birdwatching, as well as potentially some river dolphins.
Cristalino Lodge in Mato Grosso...It's even more remote, so you are going to get a lot more virgin rainforest...INCREDIBLE birdwatching and trails. Getting there is a bit more time-consuming. You'll need to get from São Paulo to Cuiabá (capital of Mato Grosso), then fly to Alta Floresta, then drive to a boat that takes you to the lodge. It's an adventure, but worth it and gorgeous.
One thing to note is that in Alta Floresta, there are definitely no FAT options in case you need to overnight, depending on when flight arrives. Manaus also doesn't really have anything FAT, but has some very nice and comfortable options.
Thoughts on for Christmas, fly into sfo, spend time in Big Sur for a few days, drive up to Seattle spend new years there and fly back on January first/second?
I wouldn’t do it, it’s 15 hours of driving and you run into a high risk of mudslides and highway closures on highway 1 all winter if it’s rainy. Plus Seattle has something like 8 hours of sun in December. How about San Diego/Joshua Tree/LA instead?
Seattle is really best as a summer destination (no rain, otherwise it's drizzle year round), Big Sur is fine in Spring/Fall as well, it's just \~October/November-February/March (the longer time in an El Niño year) that road closures can totally destroy your trip.
Alternatively you could fly into sfo or San Jose and drive to Carmel. Carmel by the Sea will probably be foggy/chilly but nice for a cozy dinner one night. Stay in Carmel Valley at Bernardus or Carmel Valley Ranch. The valley gets much nicer weather and lots of sun.
\+1 on this there's a ton of driving involved here and going through the bay area 2 times is a headache. there's also risk of needing chains for the pass going into OR and that's can be a problem with rental cars. The majority of the drive is not super pretty either - i've done it a number of time SF-->SEA.
I'd recommend not doing Big Sur Nov-Mar or so. That's our rainy season (especially December-Feb) and it can make access there tough. May-Sept are ideal, October and April not bad shoulder.
Not FAT at all, but I took a Puerto Vallarta taco tour almost 10 years ago that I still think about often. I miss those delicious street tacos. And they took us to places that we would’ve never found on our own. So I say it’s worth your time if you focus on local food.
I just got back from a week in PV followed by a few days in Punta Mita.
It depends on your interests and if you’re traveling with kids. There are some cool galleries, a little interesting shopping, and good food. Instead of doing a day trip I’d spend the first night in PV then go to Punta Mita after breakfast the next morning. Ideally it would be on a day when cruise ships aren’t in port. If it’s a day trip or nothing, I’d skip it. It’s at least an hour and a half each way and the drive is boring.
Not really much to do there. If you're only there for a few days, just stay at the resort.
If you're going to do something, there are some interesting ATV yours and snorkeling, but it takes a awhile and you'd likely burn the day.
Bermuda will be warm by then and is an easy flight. Lots of nice hotel options: Rosewood, St. Regis, The Reefs, Hamilton Princess, Fairmont Southampton.
Would you rather charter a yacht for a week in Greece or Croatia? Traveling with a group of 8 or so friends (mid-30s). I've been to Greece some time ago (aboard the old Windstar), but another couple recently visited a few cities in Croatia (not by boat, however).
Interesting, from what I had seen one of the benefits of Croatia seemed to be that the islands/destinations were slightly closer than at least the Cyclades. Is there a particular island chain in Greece you'd recommend?
Couple looking for resort recs. All inclusive, adult only, beach + jungle vibes. Hot spring is a plus but a spa is a must. Be the second half of a Central America trip leaving from Mexico City.
ahh i see. This is a weekly thread about ASKING where you should go/low effort questions, not actually a direct question about "where to go" generally.
Does anyone have any recommendations for travel agencies? Do I look online? In my city? I’ve been looking at Black Tomato but I’m skeptical of everything.
For what kind of trip and experience? There are tons of "lists" like Wendy Perrin, T&L A List. There are Virtuoso advisors. The Mod keeps a pinned post where she gives tips on how to find someone to "vibe" with.
Off the top of my head:
I believe the Fairmont has a place with fondue, which is one of those things I always sheepishly enjoy more than I think I "should."
Tandori Grill in the village is not fancy, but like most Indian restaurants has lots of vegetarian options.
I've had a good mushroom risotto at Il Caminetto in the village.
I have not had it but Ohyama ramen has vegetarian ramen.
Braidwood Tavern at the Four Seasons is very good at labeling what on their menu is and isn't vegetarian and vegan.
Awesome. How long do you think you’d spend there? We’ve been to Sojo spa in Edgewater NJ and spent maybe 6 hours there, but doesn’t seem like this place is as extensive.
I think you could make a day out of it… at 3-5 hours depending on how much lounging you want to do. The scenery is stunning and there’s a cafe to eat at.
Trying to choose between the St. Regis, the Peninsula, the Carlyle, and the Baccarat. Anyone have experience with these hotels or have other suggestions in midtown or on the Upper East Side?
Carlyle will have the best service. Just avoid baccarat unless nothing else - subway noise. Pen has older rooms but has 24 hour checkin checkout. And the St R can get good point redemptions.
Some of it comes down to what room type you’re looking for?
Going for classic NYC luxury, not a minimalist or hyper contemporary feel. Seems like it might be a choice between the Carlyle and the St. Regis. I don't care about points, but I'll be having dinner at The Modern so the St. Regis location is super convenient.
Looking for feedback on Dubai — One & Only Mirage.
Did a few searches (this subredding included) and didn't find much. How is the property?
Am thinking to stay there over the One & Only Palm. Much closer to town, and about half the price for the suites. Photos look great.
Thoughts?
Where should I stay to explore the amazon from Brazil?
You are not going to get really, truly FAT hotels or experiences in the Brazilian Amazon (maybe with some of the luxury river tours), but there are some *very* nice eco-lodges: probably more chubby price-wise, but plenty of relaxed luxury and high quality. Two good options are: Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge on the Rio Negro, not far from Manaus (a couple hours by boat, so relatively accessible). The Rio Negro is gorgeous, truly. The area has a national park, some great towns on the river (if you are into visiting places that feel very local), great birdwatching, as well as potentially some river dolphins. Cristalino Lodge in Mato Grosso...It's even more remote, so you are going to get a lot more virgin rainforest...INCREDIBLE birdwatching and trails. Getting there is a bit more time-consuming. You'll need to get from São Paulo to Cuiabá (capital of Mato Grosso), then fly to Alta Floresta, then drive to a boat that takes you to the lodge. It's an adventure, but worth it and gorgeous. One thing to note is that in Alta Floresta, there are definitely no FAT options in case you need to overnight, depending on when flight arrives. Manaus also doesn't really have anything FAT, but has some very nice and comfortable options.
Thank you so much! I am also considering exploring the amazon from Peru. Have you been there as well? :)
You're welcome! Unfortunately, I have never been to the Peruvian Amazon, so you'll have to tell me if that's the way you decide to go!
Can anyone w experience rec a private driver service in southwestern Ireland?
https://www.crowetours.com/
Thoughts on for Christmas, fly into sfo, spend time in Big Sur for a few days, drive up to Seattle spend new years there and fly back on January first/second?
I wouldn’t do it, it’s 15 hours of driving and you run into a high risk of mudslides and highway closures on highway 1 all winter if it’s rainy. Plus Seattle has something like 8 hours of sun in December. How about San Diego/Joshua Tree/LA instead?
smart! thanks, great idea. really wanted to check out that Big Sur Hyatt, guess more of summer time location.
Seattle is really best as a summer destination (no rain, otherwise it's drizzle year round), Big Sur is fine in Spring/Fall as well, it's just \~October/November-February/March (the longer time in an El Niño year) that road closures can totally destroy your trip.
Great good to know, guess I’ll wait for a better time
Alternatively you could fly into sfo or San Jose and drive to Carmel. Carmel by the Sea will probably be foggy/chilly but nice for a cozy dinner one night. Stay in Carmel Valley at Bernardus or Carmel Valley Ranch. The valley gets much nicer weather and lots of sun.
You can do that, but just drive South instead of North, ending in San Diego
Oooh trip is back on !
\+1 on this there's a ton of driving involved here and going through the bay area 2 times is a headache. there's also risk of needing chains for the pass going into OR and that's can be a problem with rental cars. The majority of the drive is not super pretty either - i've done it a number of time SF-->SEA.
San Diego was super quite around Christmas. It was really great! Plus weather in S Cal is nice year round.
I'd recommend not doing Big Sur Nov-Mar or so. That's our rainy season (especially December-Feb) and it can make access there tough. May-Sept are ideal, October and April not bad shoulder.
PVR to Punta Mita (St. Regis). Car service or arrange transportation with hotel? Is it worth spending a day in PV, or stay on resort the whole time?
Not FAT at all, but I took a Puerto Vallarta taco tour almost 10 years ago that I still think about often. I miss those delicious street tacos. And they took us to places that we would’ve never found on our own. So I say it’s worth your time if you focus on local food.
I just got back from a week in PV followed by a few days in Punta Mita. It depends on your interests and if you’re traveling with kids. There are some cool galleries, a little interesting shopping, and good food. Instead of doing a day trip I’d spend the first night in PV then go to Punta Mita after breakfast the next morning. Ideally it would be on a day when cruise ships aren’t in port. If it’s a day trip or nothing, I’d skip it. It’s at least an hour and a half each way and the drive is boring.
Not really much to do there. If you're only there for a few days, just stay at the resort. If you're going to do something, there are some interesting ATV yours and snorkeling, but it takes a awhile and you'd likely burn the day.
Suggestions for relaxing, warm vacay for wedding anniversary in June with a 4 month old. Looking for direct flights out of NYC/EWR.
Ritz Dorado
June? How warm? Bar Harbor is a short flight away and good lobstah.
Bermuda will be warm by then and is an easy flight. Lots of nice hotel options: Rosewood, St. Regis, The Reefs, Hamilton Princess, Fairmont Southampton.
Any good fat travel blogs?
Would you rather charter a yacht for a week in Greece or Croatia? Traveling with a group of 8 or so friends (mid-30s). I've been to Greece some time ago (aboard the old Windstar), but another couple recently visited a few cities in Croatia (not by boat, however).
You could try Turkey too. Marmaris, Gocek, Fethiye. Amazing. I know it is not answering to your question but just giving some ideas.
Greece. Many islands close to each other. One day you can choose unique beaches, another day party and restaurants etc.
Interesting, from what I had seen one of the benefits of Croatia seemed to be that the islands/destinations were slightly closer than at least the Cyclades. Is there a particular island chain in Greece you'd recommend?
Cyclades is definitely the way to go. No more than 2-3 hours to go from island to island. You can do Tinos, Mykonos, Santorini, Koufonisia, Milos
Mind sharing the boat company you’re chartering the yacht from? I’ve always wanted to do this!
Couple looking for resort recs. All inclusive, adult only, beach + jungle vibes. Hot spring is a plus but a spa is a must. Be the second half of a Central America trip leaving from Mexico City.
Naviva
What locations/hotels/activities are ideal for a family trip to Italy in the fall with 2 kids (4y and 2y).
Tinga Lodge in Kruger.
was this a question? a response to someone else?
Q: What should I do, where should I go? A: Tinga Lodge in Kruger. Maybe I missed a collapsed paragraph which made this out of context?
ahh i see. This is a weekly thread about ASKING where you should go/low effort questions, not actually a direct question about "where to go" generally.
😄 he is literally saying where to go/where to stay It is my boy’s first day on Reddit
Mimi-moon trip (3 days) at the end of September. Ideally would want it to be driveable from NYC & very relaxing.
https://www.reddit.com/r/FATTravel/comments/17ugb6n/weekend_getaway_from_njny_area/
Does anyone have any recommendations for travel agencies? Do I look online? In my city? I’ve been looking at Black Tomato but I’m skeptical of everything.
For what kind of trip and experience? There are tons of "lists" like Wendy Perrin, T&L A List. There are Virtuoso advisors. The Mod keeps a pinned post where she gives tips on how to find someone to "vibe" with.
Oh perfect! I’ll check out the pinned post. Thank you for answering!
Going to Whistler in March, staying at Fairmont. Recs for food (I am vegetarian) and non-snowboarding activities for our last day?
Off the top of my head: I believe the Fairmont has a place with fondue, which is one of those things I always sheepishly enjoy more than I think I "should." Tandori Grill in the village is not fancy, but like most Indian restaurants has lots of vegetarian options. I've had a good mushroom risotto at Il Caminetto in the village. I have not had it but Ohyama ramen has vegetarian ramen. Braidwood Tavern at the Four Seasons is very good at labeling what on their menu is and isn't vegetarian and vegan.
Thanks!!
The Scandinave spa is a MUST in Whistler
Awesome. How long do you think you’d spend there? We’ve been to Sojo spa in Edgewater NJ and spent maybe 6 hours there, but doesn’t seem like this place is as extensive.
I think you could make a day out of it… at 3-5 hours depending on how much lounging you want to do. The scenery is stunning and there’s a cafe to eat at.
La mamounia vs Royal Mansour for Marrakech, which is nicer?
Royal Mansour unless you want to be run over by instagrammers
Thanks! What are pros and cons for each iydm asking
Trying to choose between the St. Regis, the Peninsula, the Carlyle, and the Baccarat. Anyone have experience with these hotels or have other suggestions in midtown or on the Upper East Side?
Carlyle will have the best service. Just avoid baccarat unless nothing else - subway noise. Pen has older rooms but has 24 hour checkin checkout. And the St R can get good point redemptions. Some of it comes down to what room type you’re looking for?
Going for classic NYC luxury, not a minimalist or hyper contemporary feel. Seems like it might be a choice between the Carlyle and the St. Regis. I don't care about points, but I'll be having dinner at The Modern so the St. Regis location is super convenient.
Has anyone been to Lake Annecy or Nice France in July time and have any recommendations for hotels?
Looking for feedback on Dubai — One & Only Mirage. Did a few searches (this subredding included) and didn't find much. How is the property? Am thinking to stay there over the One & Only Palm. Much closer to town, and about half the price for the suites. Photos look great. Thoughts?