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Fitler Vibe: Travel Edition

11.29.2020
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TRAVEL may be on hold right now, but it will return soon enough. So, hop in as we catch up with some of our favorite travel experts and get to dreaming about all of the places we’ll go.

 

 

The travel landscape has certainly changed this year, but that doesn’t mean we need to completely stop discovering new places or even revisiting old favorites. Yes, some borders are closed, safety has never been as important, and questions about how to travel are critical, but that is where Essentialist comes in to help. They work with leading travel editors and local insiders who provide their travel design team with on-the-ground information about destinations, whether that means a new hotel opening, an off-the-beaten-path shop, or where to dine safely. They create bespoke itineraries for each member that are based on their passions, concerns, and interests, ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience. We believe that we will all look at travel a little differently now, better appreciating the world around us and looking for more meaningful travel experiences.

With winter approaching, Essentialist recommends three of our favorite winter getaways to get you inspired:

 

Southern Vermont

Snow Days and Maple Syrup

Think cozy nights by the fire, pastoral landscapes blanketed by trees and white snow, and a down-to-earth vibe that instantly takes the edge off. Located just 30 minutes from the peaks of Killington, Twin Farms is set on three-hundred acres of rolling forest and farms, which are like a private playground for guests at this elegant all-inclusive resort. Expect whimsy with seamless service, from impromptu picnics to private ski-slopes. Guests in Twin Farms’ 20 accommodations enjoy exclusive access to onsite winter sports such as ice skating and snowshoeing as well. Note: Guests must be over 16 years old.

Highlights: Handmade Stave jigsaw puzzles in each room that invite lazy mornings in. The farm-to-table dining experiences by Chef Nathan Rich, available in-room or at the restaurant.

 

Northern Virginia

An easy drive brings a breath of fresh air in a relaxed countryside environment.

Getting away, even for a couple of nights, can make such a difference to our wellbeing. A 3-hour drive from Philly, the Salamander Resort in Middleburg, Virginia, is a welcoming respite from the day-to-day. This property of 340 acres, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a luxurious retreat offering the utmost Appalachian hospitality. The design of the interior evokes the class and sophistication of a countryside manor, and all 168 accommodations include an outdoor patio or balcony. The expansive property allows ample opportunities for both relaxation and adventure. Did we mention it’s pet-friendly?

Highlights: The Gold Cup Wine Bar offers locally produced wines and fun outdoor activities right on the property, from a putting green to lawn games to a full equestrian center.

 

South Carolina

Sunshine and Salty Air

Craving a bit more sun and sea views during the darker winter months? The Sanctuary at Kiawah Resort is just that, a sanctuary. A short flight to Charleston takes you to this tucked-away luxury resort that is set along the tree and grass-lined dunes of the Atlantic coast. The family-friendly resort has top golf courses, world-class amenities, an indulging spa, and a range of accommodation, be it a room in the exclusive The Sanctuary, or a more private choice such as the Resort Villas or Private Homes.

Highlights: Bike riding on the beach and the extensive dining options offered within the resort, from a premier steakhouse restaurant to the oyster roast and BBQ outdoor diner.

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kali.rooney@essentialist.com
Instagram: @travelessentialist
FB: @travelessentialist

 


 

 

Nastasia Yakoub is a travel influencer (@dametraveler) and Fitler Club super fan. We caught up with her to learn a little more about her and to get her outlook on the future of travel.

Q: What inspired you to become a travel blogger and what makes your point of view different from other travel bloggers/influencers?
A: I actually fell into it back in 2013 before Instagram travel bloggers were a thing. I was a Labor & Delivery nurse and I suffered from a work-related back injury that left me on bed rest for months. I downloaded Instagram because I’ve always loved photography. I started following all of my favorite travel brands and I noticed none were geared specifically towards women, so I started the very first travel community for women on Instagram, Dame Traveler!

People really resonated with the message and how I curated the feed. It got insanely popular very fast, even getting the attention of huge media outlets such as VOGUE India, ELLE Canada and even an invite to the White House under the Obama administration!

I continued to grow the community organically over the next two years and expanded it by creating a travel blog which then brought about opportunities to travel for a living which is what I’ve been doing for 6 years now! The brand grew so popular with over half a million followers that it landed me a book deal with Ten Speed Press of Penguin Random House. My book was released in March of 2020. It’s a gorgeous hardcover photo book that makes for a fabulous gift. It features the work of 200 female travelers from my community. You can check it out here!

 

 

Q: What is it like to be a travel blogger at a time when travel is so limited? How has COVID impacted you and your colleagues and friends who work in the travel industry?
A: Honestly, it has been devastating. I had such an exciting year in 2019 and had tons of fun campaigns lined up for 2020. Every single one of them was canceled the day the nation announced the shutdown. I’ve adapted since then and have been offering social media consulting services for small businesses and maintaining my Instagram channels and blog as I’ve decided that travel isn’t safe right now and I won’t go back to it until there’s a vaccine. I’m a very spontaneous traveler and the dynamic of the pandemic just doesn’t allow for that right now so I’d rather stay safe. I am optimistic that once we get past the pandemic, travel will come back in full force because everyone misses it so much. I am SO looking forward to that day.

Q: How have the events of 2020 impacted the way you will travel in the future? Furthermore, what advice can you give us as we think ahead to upcoming trips in a post-COVID world?
A: I love this post on How to Be a Better Traveler in 2020 by one of the Dame Traveler community members, Kay. She talks about recognizing our privilege to travel, to be more conscious, respecting signs and rules, supporting local, and more. I am going to be more mindful of my carbon footprint and will prioritize slow travel over quick international trips to really engage and understand the countries and cultures I’m experiencing. I think that’s a really important component of travel and I cannot wait to do more of that.

 

 

Q: What is your favorite place to visit and why? What is one place you’ve never been to before that you are dying to visit?
A: Italy is truly my love. I have been going back every October for the past 8 years because I LOVE autumn in Italy and this is actually the first year that I’m breaking that tradition because of COVID. It’s my soul country. It just resonates with me in every way from the food to the warmth and passion of its people, to its beautiful and rich history and sights. I just can’t get enough of it and I want to explore more and more of it.

I am blessed to have seen much of the world with over 67 countries under my belt but Bhutan and India are my two dream trips that I have yet to experience and I hope to someday. I think I will really enjoy the spiritual aspect that these countries offer.

 

 


 

 

Winter is quickly approaching along with great anticipation for the upcoming ski season. Needless to say, this year will be different than any we have ever experienced. The good news is there is still an incredible array of ski destinations to choose from with new guidelines and protocols in place to keep you safe.

There are countless domestic and international ski resorts and destinations to enjoy. Of course, everyone has their own personal favorites, determined by a combination of preferred ski terrain, accommodations, and most importantly, the vibe, which truly defines the experience. We’ll focus on domestic options since they are the most reachable these days and there are so many amazing areas from which to choose!

 

 

Colorado is packed with ski destinations. Aspen is at the top of many travelers lists as it offers something for every ski enthusiast and it is especially known for its chic vibe thanks to its luxe lodging options, amazing apres-ski scene, great restaurants, and four outstanding ski areas to choose from (Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk). It is a must for those who love the glitz and glam of a ski vacation! Vail is the quintessential American ski resort with an incredible array of world-class slopes and charming villages with cobblestone streets. Telluride is a lowkey and rustic destination known for its historic, gold rush town, killer slopes, and scenic gondola ride connecting neighboring Mountain Village.

Top Hotel Choices: The Little NellSt. Regis AspenHotel JeromeViceroy SnowmassThe Gant

For those looking for a more residential type of experience, a few of the properties above offer beautiful 2-4 bedroom residences and there are also many wonderful private homes and condos that can be rented for a week or more.

 

 

Deer Valley & Park City, Utah are known for perfect, powdery slopes and wide-open terrain. Deer Valley pairs the ultimate alpine ski experience with exceptionally friendly service to make it one of the most popular ski resorts for couples and families alike. There’s no main town in Deer Valley but it’s a short 5-10 minute drive to the laid back and historic mining town of Park City which gives this ski resort a true sense of place. Since there is no snowboarding allowed in Deer Valley, you can easily take a short 15-minute drive to Park City Mountain (the largest ski resort in the U.S.) which will deliver a world-class snowboarding and skiing experience.

Top Hotel Choices: Montage Deer ValleyStein Eriksen Lodge & ResidencesSt. Regis Deer ValleyThe Lodge at Blue Sky (the newest luxury resort in the area, located 30 minutes from Park City).

 

 

Jackson Hole, Wyoming delivers the picture-perfect western ski adventure. With the Grand Tetons as the backdrop, Jackson Hole is geared towards the expert skier, with many black and double black diamond slopes. Don’t fret if you are a beginner as there are slope choices for all levels making this an ideal family or group destination. The lively and fun town of Jackson is an attraction unto itself. Jackson Hole truly has something for everyone which is what makes it such a popular destination.

Top Hotel Choices: AmanganiFour Seasons Jackson HoleCaldera House

 

 

Europe may present some travel challenges this coming season, but it is still gearing up for the winter and ready to dazzle ski lovers of all levels. The big news is coming from the Dolomites in Italy, located on the sunny side of the Alps with outstanding mountains and beautiful views.

Rosa Alpina, a legendary, family-owned hotel has formed a partnership with Aman Resorts. With an international and very loyal clientele, Rosa Alpina has always demonstrated hospitality at its finest. The partnership with Aman will help bring this gem of a hotel to another level. It will be officially branded as an Aman resort in December 2022, but the partnership has already begun.

I hope you will be able to take your dream ski holiday in 2021 but if it’s not possible this coming year, these idyllic mountain resorts will be waiting for you in 2022 and as you can see, there’s plenty to choose from!

Judy is the President of The Stein Collective Ovation Travel and a pro at developing over-the-top trips that combine the finest in accommodations with hand-picked guides and destination specialists along the way.
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jstein@ovationtravel.com
Instagram: @judylstein

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