In the name of celebration

Hilaya Travel Ideas Slow travel, fine life | EDITION 2 – June 2008 June is a season of celebration, and you can smell it from the air:  Father's Day.  Graduation. Wedding. Honeymoon. Farewell and moving parties…  Seems like an endless list.  But, do we really need a reason to celebrate, or only in June?    How about: A mini-getaway anytime you want: Whatever you call it – family getaway, girls' night out, guys' reunion – to spend one or two days at away from your home would be just so fantastic. Many places offer specials or packages ranging from bed and breakfast (and a bottle of Napa wine), to a spa vacation, to a family spa and hotel package with two-day passes for aquarium. On weekdays, you will pay less, yet enjoy more. A mountain (or lake) escape:  Yes, there're times that you just want to wake up and watch the mountain, or lake, or ocean for all days alone.  You would shamelessly turn off blackberries, take a hike after a long brunch, then bike along the coastline,  or watch Sex and the City episodes (did I mention the movie version will come out tomorrow?) until who knows when.  Your email auto-reply would be "Bummer. I am happily taking an escape now". An active travel: So, you want to learn Italian gourmet cooking in Rome, or bike around scenic Bordeaux vineyards, or observe a fine big game wildlife safari in South Africa from your spacious cottage safely and closely?  Bring your cameras and wallets, and leave the rest for professionals – your tour guide could be a Master Sommelier (much harder to get than an MBA or CFA :-), or a specialist ranger and tracker for wild animals. Honeymoon/anniversary: Just married? Celebrate Paper, Crystal, Silver or Gold?  How about celebrating it at arguably the best place in US that offers top-notch Mediterranean cuisine, second-to-none pananomic view of Napa valley, and ultra luxury amenities?  Or renew your vow in an ancient setting in Turkey? Wherever two of you want to go, we can meet your request for a very romantic journey.  Too many choices, eh?  (Yes I know. And you bet that I have a very long list for celebration ideas to share.) Just email me  (or call me at +1-604-375-0398) with your dates and expectation. I will work with you to select or design an itinerary to make your experience very unique and unforgettable. Let's celebrate!