written and photographed by Marcia Simon 

There's always something new to discover on a summer day in Copenhagen, Denmark, with 17 hours of sunlight and daytime temperatures generally around 65 to 70 degrees (although heatwaves into the 80s are becoming more common with climate change.)

Public transportation is easy and walkabouts take you past cafes, parks and canals lined with boats or swans. Aimlessly meandering is quite a nice way to float through a morning or late afternoon.

I spent four days in Copenhagen, leading a group of 10 nature-loving adults. The plan was to become immersed in the Danish culture, highlighting sustainability by using public transportation and wearing comfortable walking shoes.

Day 1 - On arrival around noon time at Copenhagen's Kastrup airport, we took the train directly from terminal C to København H (Central Station). It's very easy to purchase train, metro and bus tickets on the country's DSB (Danske Statsbaner) phone app for a reduced price and convenient use. The train comes about every 15 minutes and gets you to Central Station in 14 minutes. From there it was a 12-minute walk to the Scandic Palace Hotel, chosen for its walking distance to the train station, Nyhavn and other popular city sites. Our rooms were ready, so we checked in, did a quick refresh and headed to Nyhavn (New Harbor), the iconic strip of colorful 17th century buildings.

​Above the restaurants and cafes of Nyhavn are undetectable apartments and office spaces overlooking the harbor. It's prime real estate for obvious reasons and although Nyhavn is known as a dining and drinking location with "high-priced tourist food", the traditional smorrebrød (open-faced sandwich) made with dense dark sourdough rye bread is quite good and, honestly, I didn't find the prices to be much higher than anywhere else in the city.
Just around the corner from Nyhavn, is Ophelia Plats, a local gathering spot for harborfront sunbathing and swimming. It's also where you find Hey Captain, a solid alternative to the bigger tour boats. Up to 12 people can fit into one of Hey Captain's electric-powered small boats and a choice of tours (1, 2 or 3 hours) is offered. We opted for the 2-hour Hidden Gems. A stroll back to hotel with a gelato on the way and a cocktail on arrival rounded out a busy but moderately-paced first day.

Day 2 - Exploring outside of the city, we took a 35-minute train ride to the small town of Hillerød, which attracts visitors because of its proximity to Frederiksborg Castle.

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The castle and its gardens are situated on three small islets. Built in the 17th century, it's considered the largest Renaissance complex in the Nordic region. Today, the castle also houses Denmark's Museum of National History. After browsing around for a bit, we took "the small ferry" from the castle's Baroque Garden across the pond (about a 10-minute ride) back to Hillerød where we enjoyed a leisurely late afternoon al fresco meal. (For me it was smorrebrød topped with lightly fried fish (plaice - a commonly served fish similar to flounder) with a side of tarragon aioli, and a Danish Carlsberg pilsner.

During summer months, the Glyptotek Museum opens its rooftop every Thursday evening, from 1700 - 2000 (5-8 pm) to guests who've purchased a museum ticket. The museum is known globally for its collection of ancient sculptures from Egypt, Rome and Greece. The rooftop overlooks the city, including nearby Tivoli Gardens that includes a large amusement park. You can hear the happy screams of people riding the Golden Tower (freefall from 63 meters) and Star Flyer (a wild carousel 80 meters in the air) as you sip cocktails and enjoy a pastry.
1 meter = about 1 yard or 3 feet.

​We ended our evening at the Tivoli Food Hall. There's an entrance around the corner from the amusement park's main gate, so you don't need to buy an admission ticket to dine. Food choices include Danish smorrebrød, of course. (I had one with egg and shrimp because they are ready-made and I was too impatient to wait in line for a poke bowl, Greek gyro, burger, pizza, French bistro or Thai, Mexican and North African dishes.
Our last morning in Copenhagen was a leisurely large Scandinavian buffet breakfast at the hotel and a walk to Central Station where we caught a train that crossed the famed Oresund Bridge into Sweden. Instead of getting off in the city of Malmö, we took the next stop at Lund, a smaller station in a university town. This is where we changed trains for the scenic ride to Stockholm. And that's another story.
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For more on Denmark, read:
48 Hours on Denmark's Island of Fyn

It worked. I managed to keep my phone in Airplane Mode (so I could only use the clock and camera functions) for nearly two days. (I checked for messages in my comfy room each night). And I didn't open my laptop until the morning of departure.

Just a two-night visit was my scheduled stay, and enough time for resetting my personal goals. Miraval serves up classes in exercise, fitness, nutrition, creative endeavors (painting, pottery) or calming the soul through vibrational sound chamber, communing with donkeys (yes - it's a thing) or an escape to the spa for a heavenly full body massage or ultra pampered organic facial. The class offerings are part of a 65-page booklet!

Miraval Berkshires is one of three Hyatt-owned adult-only spa resorts in the Miraval collection. The other two are in Tucson, Arizona and Austin, Texas. The New England property sits on 380 protected acres in Lenox, Massachusetts, complete with miles of hiking trails, an in-the-trees challenge course, golf course, and horse and aviarian discovery experiences.
Most of the premises are device-free to support a digital detox. There are a few areas, such as the main lobby and in all guest rooms , where phones are allowed and Wi-Fi is provided.
All meals are included, along with a nightly credit that can be applied to spa services, fee-based programs and alcoholic beverages. Wine and cocktails are served, which is something that many other spa resorts don't provide.

There's also a juice and smoothie bar with a variety of coffees and teas and specialty dining options, open only on weekends depending on the season. At Miraval, several of the programs and classes are complimentary, and some are fee-based. I opted to use my nightly credits toward spa services and filled in a schedule of complimentary classes. For me, I wanted to get more motivation for keeping up an exercise routine. So, I chose Functional Strength Training, Abs and Glutes, various types of yoga and TRX that uses body weight for resistance. I find that as my body (more so than my mind) ages, staying toned isn't as easy as it used to be. So, there I was on the yoga mat lowering myself from a plank, watching my left arm quiver, and letting my mind drift as I tried to focus on my breathing instead of my thoughts,

For those who want something other than challenging their physical prowess, there are programs called Wheel & Wine, Hatchet Throwing, Forge a Fire (in case you're ever lost in the forest without matches or a lighter), Operatic Breathwork, the Beauty of Imperfection, Journaling Without Judgement, Brewing Kombucha, and various types of Pilates, hikes and meditations, among a long list of other classes that tempted you to overfill your schedule.
Part of this experience is to set aside time to embrace the person you choose to be. When we stay busy day after day it's too easy to lose perspective. As we get older, we realize that time is too precious for us to be anything or anyone other than the one we choose. Where do you want to land? Who do you want to be? What course are you on to get there? Sometimes we veer off the path that takes us there.

It may take a day at Miraval to realize that it's okay to walk around in the plush bathrobes they provide. Even for dinner. it's not about how you look or what you're wearing.
The food at Miraval was fabulous - with more healthy choices than you could pack in, with room for a splurge on a burger, grilled cheese or short ribs if that's your thing. From mini mango-cream-filled brioche buns to a grilled apple and fennel salad, artisanal breads with gluten-free and vegan options, as well as warm crispy sourdough rolls served at the table with soft whipped butter. Nightly there was a different type of grilled fish (branzino, halibut and Faroe Island salmon the nights I was there) with fresh vegetables and perfectly seasoned quinoa, a choice of salads, and seasonal soups. Beautiful desserts included cobblers, pavlova, apple cider sorbet and assorted ice cream flavors. Wines and cocktails are served with meals as requested and charged to your room.

At the end of the day, the down pillows and oversized comforter (with alternatives for people with allergies), added the perfect amount of pampered luxury to unwind for a beautifully restful night's sleep.
 
Marcia Simon is a Connecticut-based writer and travel advisor with special interests in wellness and susttainability.  www.friendlygrouptravel.com  www.facebook.com/friendlygrouptravel  www.instagram.com/friendlygrouptravel

Hotel review by Marcia Simon

Autumn is the best season for hiking in New England, in my opinion anyway. The air is crisp, the temperatures are comfortable, and the leaves turn magic colors before their graceful fall to nourish the earth.

Amherst, known as the five-college town (Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, Smith College, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst), is a buzz of intellectual events and arts, with an appreciation of multicultural cuisine and the optimism of youth. Surrounded by organic farms, "farm-to-table" is an unspoken mantra at several local restaurants and at the UMass Amherst dining facilities. An extensive trail network covers 80 miles of paths for hiking and cycling in Amherst alone, making this is a wonderful anchor for exploring the Pioneer Valley area in western Massachusetts.
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One major factor to consider, if you want to get a hotel deal in Amherst or neighboring Northampton, is the calendar of major events taking place at any of the five colleges. This means forget about start and end of semesters when parents drop off or scoop up their kids, forget homecoming weekend and big sporting events (UMass is a Division 1 university), the predictable long weekend fall foliage leaf peepers on Columbus Day Weekend, and graduation weekends in late spring.

I lucked out with a midweek online rate at the Inn on Boltwood, designated a Historic Hotel of America and formerly known as the Lord Jeffrey Inn. This Inn, in the heart of Amherst's small but vibrant center, has 49 historic-yet-modern guestrooms, lots of nooks and crannies where you can comfortably read or enjoy quiet conversation with a friend. A classic New England inn experience remains intact along with modern technology upgrades and renovations.

The inn's restaurant, 30 Boltwood, serves tempting breakfasts and lunch as well as a dinner menu that offers everything from baked Vermont brie with rosemary lavender honey  and butternut burrata dip with a cider reduction for starters or small bites, to classic steak, seafood and salad options. Wanting to explore more of the town, we checked in, and walked a couple of blocks to choose a restaurant that suited our mood. We settled in at the casual Amherst Oyster Bar (formerly Judie's) and enjoyed a vegetarian bowl of "burnt end style" mushrooms and crispy fish and chips.

After dinner we stopped in at the bar area at 30 Boltwood. The service was friendly and attentive. We brought our glasses of wine outside and sat by one of the ambience-designed fire pits. Additionally, the overhead heaters kept us plenty warm in the crisp autumn air. This seems to be a go-to place for locals as well as hotel guests.

A couple of small amenities that I especially appreciated were the in-room coffee pods by Tayst, the first that I've seen that are 100% compostable; and the bathroom collection by Lather, made with all-natural fragrances. Complimentary coffee is available in the lobby starting at 6am; by 6:30 my companion and I were sipping our morning fuel in one of the rooms, tucked away off the lobby, easing into the day on a comfortable couch next to the fireplace. A reading area includes an assortment of books, a chess and checkers table, and a desktop computer for guests who need to use it.

This local escape was less than 36 hours in total including the drive, and proved again how a one-night escape can have a big impact on rejuvenating a person's energy and spirit.

Marcia Simon is a Connecticut-based writer and travel advisor with special interests in wellness and sustainability.
Reach out via email: [email protected] or facebook.com/friendlygrouptravel or instagram.com/friendlygrouptravel
#hospitality #quicktrip #exploreyourbackyard #greentravel

A European river cruise is a bucket list trip for a lot of people and, once hooked, those rivers keep calling.
 
If you’re exploring a river cruise for the first time, there’s a lot of nitty-gritty information that river cruise companies don’t tell you upfront. First of all, there is no “one size fits all” best river cruise company, but there's likely one brand that is "best for you" based on your interests and style.
 
Some are true luxury in terms of culinary and beverage offerings, cabin furnishings and depth of immersive excursions, while some are more streamlined to provide a comfortable waterfront escape from your daily routine. Some river cruises cater to older (aka retired) travelers while others direct their activities to more active adults and multigenerational families.
 
Because river ships are all built to be long and low to be able to pass through locks and under bridges, they all comply with a standard width; it's how each company designs their space that makes them different. For example, some feature outdoor verandas, while others use that space to create a larger cabin with oversized French balconies.
 
Viking is undoubtedly a leader in the river cruise travel space. The company has spent $2.8 billion on advertising, including TV ads, magazine ads, social media ads and direct mail flyers to potential and returning guests. Other companies, such as Ama and Avalon, have different marketing strategies that focus more on educating travel advisors who, in turn, can guide clients through their options.
 
River cruising feels different than any other type of vacation. There's a sense of cultural immersion through the foods and wines. Local entertainment comes onboard to perform in the evening, and being docked at the gateway of cities and villages allows you to explore the area on foot, bicycle or cultural tour.
 
Let's face it, while not every traveler is budget conscious, most are value conscious. And river cruising, overall, delivers a great value. In essence, your ship serves as an all-inclusive floating hotel.
 
To make sure you choose a river cruise directed to your personal interests and style, here are:
10 Tips to Help You Find Your Best River Cruise Vacation:

1. The offered or "starting at" price in the catalog or ad is not the price you should expect to pay. Cruise companies lure travelers by sharing their lowest cabin category, which often features small fixed windows. If you want the big open balcony with sliding doors and possibly a veranda, that upgrade can run thousands of dollars above the advertised price.
2. Cabin location matters. Although river cruises are normally very gentle because you are not sailing through ocean waters, you'll likely feel the least amount of motion mid-ship. Inquire about stairs and the ship layout. Some people like the convenience of being centrally located, others prefer the quietness of a cabin away from activities. Some ships have elevators; others don't.
3. You need to pay port fees – usually a few hundred dollars per person. These are sometimes rolled into the total price but, one way or another, you're paying for them.
4. Alcoholic beverages may not all be included. Often, the trip includes beer, wine and nonalcoholic beverages at lunch and dinner. There's a trend now to include happy hour cocktails and post-dinner drinks.
5. Most river cruises include excursions as part of the package. You can expect something for free every day. However, other options may be available – often for a fee – and these, not surprisingly, tend to be the day trips that sound like the most fun.
6. Climate change. The weather around the world is becoming less predictable. This means that winters may be mild or furious, affecting snowmelt and springtime water levels. If water is too high, ships can’t always pass under certain bridges. On the flip side, if it’s a hot, dry summer, water levels may be too low to get through parts of the passage. There is absolutely nothing any river cruise company can do about this other than assure passengers that they will accommodate to the best of their ability – either transporting guests by bus, or putting passengers in a hotel for a night to catch up with a different ship the next day. Before you book, ask the company how they address water level situations, and if they offer any type of credit for passengers who are inconvenienced due to climate change.
7. Travel insurance is always a good idea. Some policies now cover trip interruption due to water levels in the river. It's important to know if your insurance covers this and other trip interruptions.
8. If you purchase airline flights from the cruise company as part of your package, ask if these include nonstop flights and seat assignment. There may be an upcharge for these conveniences. Booking air through the cruise company usually entitles you to free transfers from the airport.
9. If you have a special interest, look for themed itineraries – Christmas Markets, Jewish Heritage, wine cruises, children's week, LGBTQ cruises, solo cruises. You might want a music afficionado itinerary, culinary deep dive or exploring port villages with a bicycle group.
10. You will never get a bargain during peak season. Ships are small and sell out quickly. The best deals can be found at the beginning and end of shoulder seasons. This is great for travelers who want to avoid crowded destinations and don't mind if the weather is imperfect. Take advantage of earlybird and last-minute deals, And talk with a travel advisor who can keep the radar up for special promotions that would work for you.

Marcia Simon, APR, CTA, is a travel writer and travel advisor. Connect through facebook.com/friendlygrouptravel, Instagram @friendlygrouptravel or email [email protected].

by Marcia Simon

​I've spent decades of my life visiting family and friends in Europe. During all these visits it's clear to me that Europeans, stereotypically speaking, respect privacy more than Americans, especially when it comes to strangers and personal space.

Europeans don't make eye contact with people walking on the sidewalk; they don't feel compelled to say hello to every stranger they meet on the street or in a coffee shop. No small talk about mundane things when waiting in line.
I love Europe – the history, the landscapes, the architecture, the foods and the people.

It's April 2025 – three months into a government administration led by a convicted felon who misled a flock of sheep, allowing him to attempt ruling with the cruelest, most uncompassionate if not inhumane, backward-thinking, racist, fascist and uneducated agenda imaginable for a global society in the 21st century. Our allies are being bullied and it seems to be that, for greed and ego, freedoms and structure in America are being unraveled. It's a tough period as Americans mobilize to regain power so that positivity again begins to flourish.

Because I'm a travel advisor now, people are asking me if they should cancel their trips to Europe because, "They hate us." I say, "No. they don't. They may hate what is happening with the US government, but they do not hate the people."

I recently returned from a solo trip to Belgium, Austria, Switzerland and Iceland. Not a single person treated me unkindly. Only twice did politics come up at all. Once was when I had dinner in a restaurant and coincidentally was seated at a table next to another female traveler dining alone. (Solo travel is quite common these days and that's another story for another time.) As I looked at the menu she glanced and recommended the signature salad, which filled a large bowl and came with a basket of fresh breads. She spoke English without a European accent. I asked if she was from the US and she said she's from Canada. I felt compelled to apologize for America's bad behavior. She sort of dismissed it with an air of "Yeah, it sucks but it's not your fault and this, too, shall pass." She smiled. I smiled. End of discussion.

It was in usually neutral Zurich, Switzerland where I routinely presented my passport to the young desk clerk upon check-in at a small hotel. He scanned my ID and asked, "Are you a Democrat or Republican?" He was making friendly conversation and had a genuine curiosity. I looked at him surprised and said, "Me? I live in a blue state. Do you know blue states and red states?"
"Yes," he replied. "I guessed you were a Democrat because your passport says you were born in New York." He wryly smiled as if he were giving me a secret wink of approval. He said was aware and has been watching the global news. He cared. He said he was glad to see that Americans are not idly accepting all that's being shoved at us. But, I could read the confusion on his face, begging for an answer to, "Why did Americans vote for this guy?"

I'm leaving shortly for Portugal and Spain with a group of travelers, a couple of whom have expressed concern about their safety. There's a feeling that we, because we're Americans, will not be welcome. "That's not true, I explained. The best thing we can do now is to support tourism in allied countries. Tourism creates income for local communities abroad." It's pretty easy to spot an American tourist in Europe.

If this is your year to visit abroad, why not make it a true immersive experience? Read up on the culture; be part of it, make an effort to understand it. As always, be kind. Be gentle. When you are a gracious guest, you will always be welcome.
 
Marcia Simon writes about travel, health, wellness and climate action. Connect on Facebook and Instagram @friendlygrouptravel, linkedin.com/in/marciasimon 

by Marcia Simon

The travel radar screen has discovered Norway, which is becoming a "go to" destination. And for good reason.
 
With jaw-dropping beauty, pristine landscapes, cooler climate, and sustainability efforts that show a commitment to preserve it all, the natural beauty of Norway is still largely undiscovered by travelers beyond Europe. With the Northern Lights in winter and Midnight Sun in summer, this is where outdoor enthusiasts can experience some of nature's most precious gifts.

Norway is large, flanked by Sweden to the right and the Atlantic Ocean to the left. About 75 percent of Norway is mountainous. The Scandinavian Mountains, also known as the Scandes, run north to south. The terrain prohibits train routes to many places in the north where population is largely along the coast. The small villages are charming; the people who live here year-round are hearty. The government led the way for two companies running Norway's ships that deliver mail and local passengers along the coast to welcome tourists onboard with a unique experience into Scandinavian culture, local cuisine and private cabins.
 
For the most part, vacationers find it most practical to stay in the southern half of Norway, with its magnificent fjords, airports and public transportation system. A fjord is a long, deep, narrow body of water that begins at the ocean and reaches far inland. The distinct glacier-formed fjords are framed by steep mountains or rock on either side. Fjords are only found in a handful of places on Earth. Norway's Geirangerfjord is considered perhaps the most beautiful and famous in the world.
 
A trip to Norway isn't complete without a trip up one of the fjords - either a day excursion, an overnight ship or a leisurely ferry. It depends on your frame of mind and pace of travel. The city of Bergen is known as the country's Fjord Capital.

One relatively easy way to see the fjords and popular destinations, or "Norway's Greatest Hits" as one might say, is marketed as Norway in a Nutshell, which combines train, boat and bus to travel between Norway's capital Oslo, and Bergen, situated between the two largest fjords in Norway, which may be why it's known as the country's  fjord capital. The journey takes you through beautiful fjords and up to an elevation where you're likely to see snow in late-spring and sometimes through the summer.
 
It's possible to speed through a Norway in a Nutshell itinerary in a day if you simply want a scenic ride from point to point. Or you can take a week or more to stop along the way to spend a few nights at one of the lovely fjord-facing hotels or campgrounds along the route. Camping in Norway often means staying in a basic cabin, sometimes with a small kitchen and private bathroom. These cabins are very popular with European travelers; advance booking is highly recommended.

I opted for a 3-night getaway as part of a larger trip in Scandinavia. Here's how it went:
 
Flights from Copenhagen in Denmark to Bergen in Norway are short and inexpensive on EasyJet and SAS airlines. Upon arrival we took a train from the airport to Bergen's Central Station and walked the short distance to Bryggen or "The Wharf."

Choosing the centuries-old Det Hanseatiske hotel gave us a glimpse into Bryggen's history and involvement in the Hanseatic League, which was a maritime merchant trade group of European countries in the 13th to 15th centuries. Bryggen's harbor, now known as the Old Town, offers an easy stroll along the shop-lined waterfront. Visitors can enjoy a fish sandwich from Fisktorget, or fish market. After lunch we walked around town and picked up four types of freshly smoked fish, a crusty loaf of bread, local cheese, beers and a few bottles of delicious Sammy Smith pear cider for an outdoor picnic dinner.

There are several hiking trails suitable for various levels of difficulty when you get to the top of Floyen. We opted for one that would bring us back down to sea level in a leisurely three hours. We got back in plenty of time to enjoy a simple dinner of burgers and salads.

The next day started with an early walk over to Bergen's central station to begin our Norway in a Nutshell experience with a train ride to Voss. You notice lots of people traveling the same journey and realize that this trip has a degree of tourist commercialism. And yet, the scenery is spectacular from the big windows on the train and then on the bus that drops you at the beautiful fjord-facing town of Gudvangen with two tourist cafeterias, picnic tables and a gift shop. With a two-hour wait for the boat, you're bound to buy something.
 
The boat ride to Flåm was gorgeous. This village is another perfect spot for staying a few extra days. You have a choice of restaurants, a craft beer brewery, a food truck area, and a limited number of hotels by the water, including Flamsbrygga and Fretheim. There's also a campground with tent, cabin and RV options. Early reservations for any type of accommodation are strongly recommended for peak season. For those who can't find a place to stay in Flåm, nearby Aurland is also beautiful. This area is incredible for photography, hiking, kayaking and rib boats.

The Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana) is right in the heart of Flåm Village and takes you to the next stop – Myrdal. The train stops on the way at a magnificent waterfall, one of many that become part of the fjord experience.

Another adventure option is to take the train to Myrdal and then rent a bike for a one-way ride down the gentle descent traversing numerous bends on the designated bike and pedestrian path to Flåm. The train passes through the nearby remote town of Finse, with a population of less than 100 people, which was chosen for the opening scene for the movie Star Wars: The Emperor Strikes Back.
 
Our Nutshell experience ended by train in Norway's capital city of Oslo. Had there been more time (Is there ever enough time?) we could have stayed for a night. (During a previous trip I visited the Vigeland Sculpture Park, which is a must-do. Oslo is a great city for foodies in search of Norwegian cuisine. We had a plane to catch so took a connecting train directly to the airport and headed back to Denmark. While these two countries are both part of Scandinavia with similar cultures and a deep commitment toward sustainability and environmental protection, they also have very different vibes. In Denmark everything seems close and connected. Norway is vast and expansive. It's rugged in a civilized sort of way.
 
Marcia Simon is a travel writer and owner of Friendly Group Travel. Connect through facebook.com/friendlygrouptravel, Instagram @friendlygrouptravel or [email protected].

PHOTO CREDIT: MARCIA SIMON  ©2024

text and photos by Marcia Simon ©2024
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"Luxury" means different things to different people. Mistakenly, many equate it solely as something expensive or lavish. The term "luxury travel" sometimes scares people who must keep track of how much they spend on their vacations.
 
People who never have to ask how much it costs are among the fortunate few. And even those willing to pay for unparalleled excellence in every aspect of their journey appreciate finding a good value.
 
The goal is never to spend a lot of money; it's to create the best possible experience for individuals and their guests. It could be in a 5-star hotel or in a tent surrounded by nature with hundreds of stars shining above.

​Think Expansive, Not Expensive
 
Luxury is allowing yourself to enjoy something that's not part of your daily routine. That might be morning yoga with the sound of the sea lapping at the shore, a day at a spa, or ditching your healthy lifestyle for indulgent meals and sinfully delicious desserts.
 
Places you've only imaged – Venice, Greece, Galapagos, East Africa, Japan.
 
Does your dream include sleeping in a glass igloo with the Northern Lights dancing in the sky above? Or someone bringing you a tall glass of ice water when you're nestled into your spot, reading a book on a gorgeous beach where the truly turquoise water is so crystal clear you can see with clarity the sand swooshing over your toes?

​Something you've never done before – kayaking on a gentle lake, ziplining over a canopy of trees, treating yourself to a hotel room with a magnificent view from your waterfront balcony.
 
Traveling outside of peak tourist season, when hotel and airfare rates are lower, can make luxury travel more affordable. And the experience is often more enjoyable during a less crowded season with fewer people vying for reservations at the best restaurants, and less crowded destinations......... which tends to make everything easier.
 
Think of "luxury" as hassle-free.
 
No Hassles
Whether you wake up at the crack of dawn to photograph a sunrise during a morning walk, or linger after a late-night dinner sharing a bottle of fine wine, luxury is knowing that everything will be taken care of. Your hotel is better than expected, dinner was amazing, your train seats are reserved, the service has been excellent every step of the way. Service matters – a lot. Plus, you didn't have to wait in long lines, you avoided the crowds and had time and space to capture special moments to add to your memory bank.
 
Every vacation should include at least one great splurge, which could be simple:

• Going for a full week without setting an alarm clock
• Not cooking and washing dishes
• Spending full days with your adult children and/or grandchildren
• Buying the VIP pass to skip the lines at an amusement park or museum
• Authenticity – staying in a gracious old inn rather than a chain hotel
• Time to yourself, privacy
• Personal enrichment, off the beaten path diversions

 
Time is a luxury in itself. Time with your children as you watch them grow up, time with your parents as you watch them grow old, time with your grandchildren as the constant march of time reminds you how precious every moment is.
 
Today’s luxury travelers are most often educated individuals who care about the environment and seek out eco-friendly options without sacrificing quality or lowering expectations.
 
Does luxury travel really cost more? It can, of course. There are amazing options, such as expeditions to explore nature and areas not accessible by large ships and big tour groups. However, don't cheat yourself out of a "luxurious" vacation by thinking that everything worthwhile needs to be purchased. Allow yourself to experience the magic of travel through destinations you've yet to discover.

by Marcia Simon
all photos by Marcia Simon ©2024

​To experience Denmark's nature and culture outside Copenhagen's city limits, take a few days to meander around the country roads, castles, archipelago and bike paths on the island of Fyn (aka Funen in English.)
 
Most tourists in Denmark don't make it past Copenhagen's city borders, and that's okay for a short trip because there are plenty of eye-opening adventures within the city. But, because Copenhagen's intriguing vibe puts it on the list of destinations threatened by overtourism*, getting out of town for a few days gives you a better overall perspective of the country's true landscape and culture.
 
There are plenty of options for a day or weekend trip to get away from the peak-season city crowds. Fyn is one of those options, and less than two hours by train or car from Copenhagen. Fyn is the island in the middle of Denmark, between the two main land masses of Zealand (the region that includes capital city Copenhagen to the east) and Jutland (to the west where you'll find the cities of Aarhus, Aalborg and the country's west coast sandy beaches.)
 
Denmark's well-connected system of trains and buses makes it quite easy to hop a ride from Copenhagen's Central Station to Odense, the anchor spot in the middle of Fyn (pronounced "foon" in Danish.) Odense, best known as the birthplace of fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen, is the largest city on the island and the third largest city in Denmark. Depending on your travel preferences, you might anchor in Odense with an ample variety of hotels and restaurants in the city or Old Town, and day trips and tours to see the highlights of Fyn.
 
Or... continue by train or bus, or rent a car or a bicycle, to explore the island on a deeper level, which is what I did on a recent trip. We rented a car in Odense and headed south, taking backroads for a stop at Egeskov Slot (Slot means Castle in Danish.)

​Built as a village manor house in the 1400s, Egeskov was transformed into a highly fortified fortress, commissioned by local landowner Frands Brockenhuus. The work was completed in 1554, and today Egeskov is considered one of the best-preserved moated Renaissance castles in Northern Europe. Brockenhuus was among the King’s inner circle of trusted advisors and one of the "most cultured" men of his time. He climbed the ranks to become commander of the Danish army. He died in battle during the Seven-Year War with Sweden.
 
Heading farther south, the two main ports with ferries to the outer islands at the southern tip of Fyn are Faaborg and Svendborg. We opted for Svendborg and stayed at the hotelaeroe.dk/en/Hotel Ærø.

​The location is ideal for a short walk to the ferry dock to visit the smaller island of Ærø, and to a fun outdoor dining area where you can enjoy a local craft beer or cocktail with a light bite while you watch the boats and slow island life at the water's edge.
 
The island of Aero has two places within a 10-minute walk of the ferry dock where you can rent bikes for a full day. A "regular" seven-speed bike is 100 DKK (about USD $15) or 250 DKK (USD $36) for an e-bike. We rode at a leisurely pace along the beach and rolling meadows, stopping often to take photos, pop into a distillery and enjoy a casual lunch. It was a delightful day, ending with a relaxed dinner at a cute Italian restaurant near our hotel back in Svendborg.
 
Heading back to Copenhagen, we stopped at three castles before leaving Fyn. One, Broholm Castle, is now a hotel and restaurant. 

Here are 10 New Travel Trends for 2024:

1. Immersive experiences are more important than skimming the surface through a "been there, done that, got the t-shirt" mentality. "Slow travel" or staying longer in one place gives you time to feel the culture. Hotel deals for longer stays (e.g., stay three nights, get the fourth night free) are on the rise.
2. Remote work, as a digital nomad or a "paycation", is prompting hotel chains to add accommodations that include kitchenettes, more robust fitness centers and enticing "month-long stay" rates.
3. The desire for more quality time among multigenerational families (such as grandparents, adult children and grandchildren) also adds to increased resort options in terms of suites with added sleeping, kitchen and dining spaces, an additional bathroom, and private patio plunge pools in many Caribbean resorts. Many hotel chains now offer home rentals and onsite villas.
4. Affordability: Many families are looking to travel more, or longer, and stretch their travel dollars. A survey by the Family Travel Association and NYU's Tisch Center of Hospitality showed that consumers are getting savvier; half of those surveyed will try to avoid hotels and airlines that charge hidden fees (e.g., a nightly resort fee or charge for Wi-Fi) About half of surveyed travelers are paying closer attention to cancellation penalties and refund policies.
5. More people are buying travel insurance. With more missed connections, lost luggage and concerns about illness prior to or during an international trip, protecting a travel plan is perceived more widely as a smart investment. (Frequent travelers might consider an annual insurance plan.)
6. Solo travel. Maybe people got used to spending time alone during the pandemic. A yearning for independence and an increased sense of confidence is combined with the fact that many people are less willing to compromise on what they want from their journey. And some people are just tired of waiting for a travel companion, so they pack a bag and go where they want, when they want.
7. While some people are totally comfortable traveling solo, others are not. For these people, It's easy now to travel solo, but not alone­, by joining a solo traveler small group where you can meet like-minded individuals and never feel like a third wheel.
8. People are checking off the boxes on the bucket list. "If not now, when?" This often includes booking further in advance than ever before. While most of us are thinking about 2024, the tour operators and river cruise companies have already announced their itineraries and pricing for 2025 – with very attractive early booking discounts. The best staterooms sell out quickly.
9. On the other hand, there's a joy in last-minute spontaneous travel. Taking advantage of unfilled space can reap steep discounts. This generally involves grabbing the rooms others don't want or traveling at a time that's not as popular.
10. Off-peak travel gives you more options for lower airfares, lower hotel prices and perhaps most importantly - fewer crowds so you're not jammed into a museum, following a herd on a popular hiking trail, or waiting an hour for a restaurant table. Shoulder seasons of early spring or late fall can be a beautiful time to experience the real essence of your destination. Check weather patterns for rainy seasons and average day and nighttime temperatures to find your travel window.

 
Marcia Simon is a travel writer, and founder/travel advisor at Friendly Group Travel. Connect via email: [email protected] and please visit friendlygrouptravel.com.

​by Marcia Simon, CTA, APR
 
Italy's lakes near the country's northern border are flanked by the Swiss Alps as a backdrop. This area is not usually part of a first-time trip to Italy, but visitors who enjoyed Rome, Florence or the Amalfi coast often to return to Italy to discover the magic of the lakes.
 
I recently visited Lake Maggiore and Lake Como, which are the most popular for American tourists. Lake Garda, the largest of the lakes, is a popular destination for vacationing Europeans.
 
Lake Maggiore
The second-largest lake in Italy and the largest in southern Switzerland, Lake Maggiore (or Lago Maggiore in Italian) is nestled between the Italian regions of Piedmont (Piemonte) and Lombardy and the Swiss canton of Ticino.
The main town is Stresa, overlooking the Borromean Islands, which are named for the family that acquired them back in the 17th century. The three islands include Isola Bella (Beautiful Island), known for its opulent palace and gardens, Isola Madre (Mother Island) known for its lush vegetation, and Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen's Island) where tradition continues and fishing remains a way of life.

​The waterfront of Stresa is lined with hotels offering beautiful views and easy access to the bus line and ferry service that transport people from village to village up and down the lake. Hotel La Luna nel Porto was fine for our needs, not very expensive, and provided a junior suite with a comfortable king bed and huge balcony overlooking the lake. The kitchenette and living room area are ideal for longer apartment-style stays. Breakfast was included and quite generous in variety and size. Nearby, the Sempione Boutique Hotel also looked inviting with flower-boxed balconies and a rooftop terrace.
 
We connected with Girosole, a company specializing in walking tours throughout Italy, to take us for a hike above the waterline. This allowed us to see a bit of the daily lifestyle with landscaped yards, goats, horses, and undisturbed villages that allow residents to escape the tourist traffic. We started in Levo and took in beautiful views of the Golfo Borromeo and surrounding Alps from above before circling back to Stresa.
 
We stopped for a picnic lunch at the Giardino Botanico Alpinia (Alpine Botanical Garden), with spectacular views of the lake from above and then a stroll through more than 1,000 species of flowers, shrubs and herbs that grow in the Alps.
 
Lake Como
The largest town on Lake Como is called Como and is located at the bottom tip of the lake. It's the closest of this lake's towns to Milan, which is how most people first arrive. Como is big and feels urban, with plenty of great hotels and shops selling silk scarves and ties made in the local mills

For a quieter scene, head to one of the smaller villages north of Como. The upscale town of Bellagio sits at the tip of a peninsula separating the east and west sides of the lake. Bellagio has all the charm you'd expect from this area, with lakefront hotels, shops, restaurants and ferry stops. We stayed at the Hotel Florence, which is reasonably priced and ideally located near restaurants, wine bars and shops. A ferry station is directly across the road and the balcony views of the lake are stunning from sunrise and through the day and night. Other small villages that offering comfortable accommodations are Tremezzo, Varenna and Menaggio. Luxury lakefront villas with private pools are idyllic for larger families and small groups.
 
Our Girosole hiking guide, took us across the lake by ferry from Bellagio to Cadenabbia for a walk through the village of Tremezzo. The highlight of the day was walking up toward the church of San Martino, with an elevation of 475 m (1560 feet) above the village of Griante. The view of the lake was simply spectacular. Taking the ferry back across the lake we explored the town of Varenna. This is a fine place to stay if you like small villages and quiet evenings. From Varenna it's a 20-minute walk to the Fiumelatte, or River of Milk, a waterfall whose waters pour down from its glacial heights in a white cascade. We meandered among aromatic herbs like rosemary that grows as a hedge, flowering thyme along pathways, and wild poppies on the hillsides.

Lake Garda
Garda is the largest among Italy's cluster of lakes, and is often combined with visits to Venice and Verona as part of a longer itinerary, or sometimes a day trip from the train station in the resort town of Peschiera del Garda at the lake's southern tip. It's about an hour and a half to Venice, and just under two hours to Milan.
 
The medieval town of Sirmione, on a peninsula jutting out from the lake's southern coast, is one of the most popular spots on the lake. Here, the Grotto di Catullo is an archeological site featuring the ruins of a Roman villa built between the end of the 1st century BC and the beginning of the 1st century AD.
 
Heading north on the dreamy west coast of the lake you'll find Limone Sul Garda, a popular town known for its lemons and olive oil. At the top of the lake is Riva del Garda, where the winds attract windsurfers and sailors.

Getting Here and Getting Around
If flying into Milan, take the shuttle to Milano Centrale (central train station), and connect on a train to Lake Maggiore, Como or Lago. Remember that there are very few train stops along the lakefront. Once at the lake, the most efficient ways to get around are by bus or ferry. Driving is possible, but the traffic can be terrible and parking spaces may be difficult to find, so use public transportation when possible.
 
Sustainability
Many eco-conscious accommodations, including organic farms (agriturismos), B&Bs and glamping, are available. Book early for peak travel periods. Public transportation is preferred over self-driving because the mountains don't allow for many large roads, and the villages depend on preserving the historic features of the area for tourism. Lake Como has reportedly invested heavily in its electrical network, adding more E-V charging stations.
 
Lake Maggiore and Lake Como have largely done away with single-use plastic, including straws (if you ask for one, it will likely be paper), forks and spoons ("take-away" at restaurants might include wooden utensils if any at all.)
 
Lake life has a comfortable slower feel than the rush to "see it all" in one of Italy's big cities. You can catch the vibe in a couple of days, but this area is best experienced with ample time to relax and take in the natural beauty as well as the foods and wines of this region.
 
Marcia Simon is a Connecticut-based travel writer and owner of Friendly Group Travel. Connect via Facebook or Instagram @friendlygrouptravel or send email to [email protected].