A blog for the traveler who wants both luxury and a good deal.

Read our most recent posts about journeys…

5 unusual things to do in San Miguel de Allende

The colonial city of San Miguel de Allende, nestled in the mountains of central Mexico, has plenty to offer visitors. What should you do after seeing the Parroquia, the Jardin, and sampling some of the 300 restaurants and dozens of art galleries? I will show you 5...

Shanghai Disneyland: Is it worth a visit?

by Stephen Henson | Asia-Pacific

You have been to Walt Disney World in Orlando several times, not to mention Disneyland and California Adventure in Anaheim. Maybe you have even visited a Disney property outside the U.S. Should you visit Shanghai Disneyland on your trip to China? The answer is yes!...

Ilocos: Philippines are more than beaches

by Stephen Henson | Asia-Pacific

Boracay. Palawan. Those are the names that have grabbed all the international tourist attention for the Philippines because of their gorgeous beaches. But this country offers so much more, especially for fans of UNESCO World Heritage sites. We are a group of 10 travel...

Chengde Mountain Resort is China’s secret

by Stephen Henson | Asia-Pacific

Mention the city of Chengde to Westerners and they reply, “Oh, the place with the pandas, right?” No, that’s Chengdu. Say “Chengde Mountain Resort,” and people assume it is a new hotel complex. No, it was built in the 1700s as a summer palace for the Qing emperors....

History comes alive at Sweden’s Vasa Museum

by Stephen Henson | Europe

Acke didn’t want to be one of the 145 seamen aboard Sweden’s Vasa warship for its maiden voyage in 1628. The work was hard, wages were low, and living conditions were atrocious. And this voyage was to last just 1,300 meters before he would have to swim for his life....

10 unusual things to do in Maui

by Stephen Henson | North America

Like everyone else, you’ve maneuvered the twisting road to Hana, braved the cold for sunrise at Haleakala, taken a sunset catamaran cruise, enjoyed the more authentic Old Lahaina luau, snorkeled off a famous beach. Are you ready for something a little more offbeat? We...