Ready for our close up! In Antarctica, personal encounters such as these are always possible. Here, Penguins do not have any land-based predators so they don’t associate humans with danger. If you sit still and don’t purposely invade their space, some curious ones will even come up to touch you! 📸@antarctica_xxi . . . . . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #visitantarctica, #antarctica, #adventuretravel, #getoutside, #amazingplaces, #staywild, #roamtheplanet, #wildlife, #wildandfree, #goexplore, #the7thcontinent, #penguin, #penguins #natureaddict #luxurytravel, #adorableanimals, #simplyadventure, #lifeofadventure, #luxurytraveling #femmetravel #dametraveler #coupletravel #honeymoon #honeymoontravel #upclose, #closeupshot
This is the Meteora — elevated rock formations housing some the most spectacular settlements on earth and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the 14th century, hermit monks from the Orthodox Church found refuge from the invading Turks, first in the caverns and eventually on the summit of these pillars. These monks ingeniously used removable ladders, ropes, and huge nets and baskets to hoist everyone and everything needed to build these structures. In the 1920’s, stone steps were cut into the rocks and a bridge was built, providing easier access. From the 20 monasteries established, only 6 remain today, including the Varlaam Monastery which was once known to house valuable religious relics such as the finger of St. John and the shoulder blade of St. Andrew. 📸@visitmeteora . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #meteora, #monastery, #greece, #europe, #monks #archeology, #relics, #empire, #UNESCO #unescoworldheritage #church #religion #orthodoxchurch #bestviews, #viewfromthetop, #honeymoon #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #wearetravelgirls #familytravel #rockformations, #climb, #hike
SPS Travel is in Metro Society this month and we made it on the front cover, too! Swipe left to read more on how and why Special Personal Sojourns came to be, our Dream Journeys, and the Top Three Things one must bring, no matter what kind of trip you’re on! 📸@metrosocietyph and @sps_travel . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #metrosociety #luxuryissue #luxurymagazine #holidayissue #magazinecover #coverpage #philippines #kcconcepcion #alyborromeo #sharoncuneta #iceland #jordan #iran #oman #portugal #europe #northamerica #southamerica #asia #antarctica #africa #australia #familytravel #luxurytravel #luxurytrip #femmetravel
Murals, museums, monuments and many works of art abound in the streets of the Paris of South America! One of the most photographed ones is Floralis Generica, a kinetic steel and aluminum sculpture located in the middle of an expansive park in Buenos Aires. This was a gift to the city in 2002 from the world renowned Argentine architect Eduardo Catalano whose other prominent works include the Juilliard School of Music in New York City and the Catalano House in North Carolina, and many others. This 18 ton, 23 meter high flower sculpture is designed to move — its petals open at 8am on the dot, and close at sunset, the exact time being dependent on the season. 📸@sps_travel . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #floralisgenerica #buenosaires #argentina #southamerica #flowergram #flowerlove #honeymoontravel #familytravel #coupletravel #femmetravel #artandculture #starchitect #dametraveler #culturetravel #archilovers #architecture #archimasters #arts #museumlover #culturegram #instaculture #travelwithkids #sculpture #kineticsculpture #installationart #artinstallation
It may seem strange to see a cemetery making it on the list of the top places to visit in any city, but in Buenos Aires, La Recoleta Cemetery is definitely worth the detour! Here, death is certainly celebrated in style — grandiose Neo-Gothic tombs, Greek temples, elegant Art Deco mausoleums resembling luxury boutiques, and stunning life-size sculptures. And, with no less than 94 National Historical Monuments many created by renowned Argentine sculptors & architects. This graveyard is so exclusive that even in death, one has to be able to afford to be buried alongside business moguls, prominent politicians, intellectuals, army generals and celebrities. Swipe left to see a selection including the tomb of Eva Perón, Argentina’s beloved (or, for some, reviled) former First Lady. 📸@sps_travel . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #buenosaires #larecoleta #recoleta #argentina #southamerica #latam #porteno #honeymoontravel #familytravel #coupletravel #femmetravel #culturegram #artandculture #culturetravel #tombs #tombstone #archilovers #sculptors #arts #culture #cemetery #mausoleum #sculpture #evaperon #evita #evitaperon
Loving the giant handprints on the Buenos Aires Design Center, home to all things design — from furniture & textile to kitsch & vintage. This place is just around the corner from the famous Recoleta Cemetery, so don’t give this a miss en-route to Eva Perón’s renowned mausoleum! @sps_travel . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #buenosaires #argentina #southamerica #latinamerica #porteno #familytravel #coupletravel #femmetravel #starchitects #archimasters #archilovers #design #designed #arts #culture #designlife #designinspo #designlove #designlovers #designcenter #designstudio #culturegram #artandculture #instamuseum #instaculture #culturetravel
Want to see something truly freaky?! Swipe left to uncover the two faces of Gorgona — taken with and without flash photography. Goosebumps! 📸@sps_travel . . . Gorgona, a 1915 bronze sculpture by Lagos, is just one of the many impressive works of art on display at the must-visit Museum of Decorative Arts in Buenos Aires. What was once a stately Neoclassical-style mansion owned by the prominent Errázuriz-Alvear family, it was bequeathed to the government and subsequently transformed into the the lovely Museo Decorativo, housing the family’s priceless pieces accumulated from their extensive travels and collections from all around the world. . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #buenosaires #argentina #southamerica #latinamerica #porteno #honeymoontravel #familytravel #coupletravel #femmetravel #culturegram #artandculture #instamuseum #instaculture #culturetravel #archilovers #architecture #archimasters #neoclassical #arts #culture #museums #museumlover #travelwithkids #sculpture #art #arthistory
Sentimental Sunday — Sorely missing this spectacular view! Swipe left to marvel over not just one, but three, of the many faces of Futaleufú! 📸@sps_travel . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #sentimentalsunday, #umanlodge #chile, #patagonia,#southamerica, #latam #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #beautifulviews, #thatview #whataview #fromwhereistand, #thisview, #hiking, #glaciers, #lakes #rivers #whitewaterrafting #flyfishing #horsebackriding #horseriding #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #dametraveler
Saddle up! You will never, ever run out of things to do or places to go when you’re at Uman Lodge. 📸@sps_travel . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #umanlodge #chile, #patagonia,#southamerica, #latam #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #equestrianlife #equestrians, #equestriansport #andes #andesmountains, #trekking, #hiking, #glaciers, #lakes #rivers #whitewaterrafting #horsebackriding #horseriding #simplyadventure, #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #dametraveler
The absolutely adorable Kids’ Playroom at the Family-friendly Uman Lodge! 📸@sps_travel . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #umanlodge #chile, #patagonia,#southamerica, #latam #andes #andesmountains #simplyadventure, #femmetravel #dametraveler #adventuretravel #uniquehotels #luxurytraveler, #luxuryvacation, #honeymoontravel, #coupletravel, #igkids, #travelingwithkids #familyvacation #familytravel #bringthekids #jetsettingkids #travelwithkids, #familytrips #holidayswithkids #familyfriendly
Close Encounters of the Alpaca Kind — just some of the many amazing things you may come across during your hikes at Uman Lodge! 📸@sps_travel . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #umanlodge #chile, #patagonia,#southamerica, #latam #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #trek, #andes #andesmountains #hike, #hiking #rivers #whitewaterrafting #flyfishing #horsebackriding #horseriding #simplyadventure, #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #dametraveler #alpaca, #alpacalife, #alpacalove, #alpacas
HAPPENING NOW: It’s the littlest touches that make the biggest difference! Swipe left to admire some of the art & design aesthetics adorning the walls & halls of Patagonia’s Uman Lodge, this unbelievably stunning property nestled within the spectacular embrace of Chile’s Andes Mountain Range! 📸@sps_travel . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #umanlodge #chile, #patagonia,#southamerica, #latam #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #dametraveler #boutiquehotel #uniquehotels #art #culturegram #artandculture #culturetravel #luxurytravel, #luxurytraveling, #luxurylifestyle #design #archilovers #dreamhome #dreamhouse #andes #andesmountains
HAPPENING NOW: Conquering Chile’s Futaleufú River — top 3 in the whole world for white water rafting. Our section of the river was 10km long, with 10 rapids, several Class 4’s and even a couple of Class 5’s! I am not going to lie — it was totally out of my comfort zone, but it was totally worth it! 📸@sps_travel . . . . . Class 4: Whitewater, medium waves, maybe rocks, maybe a considerable drop, sharp maneuvers may be needed.(Skill level: Exceptional rafting experience) Class 5: Whitewater, large waves, large volume, possibility of large rocks and hazards, possibility of a large drop, requires precise maneuvering. (Skill level: Full mastery of rafting) Excerpted from: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rafting . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #umanlodge #chile, #patagonia,#southamerica, #latam, #andes #andesmountains #hike, #trekking, #hiking, #rivers #whitewaterrafting #simplyadventure, #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #dametraveler #adrenalinerush #adrenalinejunkie #crazystuff #extremesport #extremesports #familytravel #kayak #whitewater #raftingtrip
HAPPENING NOW: You just know it’s going to be an awesome stay when you come across the lodge’s private wine cellar! 📸@sps_travel . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #umanlodge #chile, #patagonia,#southamerica, #latam #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #dametraveler #boutiquehotel #uniquehotels #luxurytravel, #luxurytraveling, #luxurylifestyle #winecellar #wineries, #vineyards #drinklocal, #carmenere, #malbec #foodandtravel #foodandwine #vinochileno #chileanwine
HAPPENING NOW: Just one of the many hiking trails you can choose from to explore this spectacular 400-hectare property in Northern Patagonia. And, as if it couldn’t be more perfect, you can even be led by Uman Lodge’s official mascot, their Pyrenean Mountain Dog, Maya! 📸@sps_travel . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #umanlodge #chile, #patagonia,#southamerica, #latam #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #pyreneanmountaindog, #andes #andesmountains #hike, #trekking, #hiking, #glaciers, #lakes #rivers #whitewaterrafting #flyfishing #horsebackriding #horseriding #simplyadventure, #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #dametraveler
HAPPENING NOW: Jaw-dropping, unbelievable beauty is all around me at Uman Lodge! Azure skies, verdant valleys, glacial blue rivers, and majestic snow-capped mountain peaks as far as the eyes can see! BIG BONUS: Family-friendly Uman Lodge accepts kids of all ages, and fronting this gorgeous property is the Futaleufú River — top 3 in the whole world for white water rafting! This shot was taken with absolutely #nofilter. 📸@sps_travel . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #umanlodge #chile, #patagonia,#southamerica, #latam #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #trek, #andes #andesmountains #hike, #trekking, #hiking, #glaciers, #lakes #rivers #whitewaterrafting #flyfishing #horsebackriding #horseriding #simplyadventure, #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #dametraveler
TOP SPS TRAVEL TIP: Time your trip to Buenos Aires in mid-November to catch the city’s spectacular Jacaranda Trees in full bloom. These trees only have a precious 2-3 weeks before their stunning amethyst-hued flowers start to fall and cover the city’s parks and avenues with a delightfully dreamy purple-colored blanket! 📸@sps_travel . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke #traveltips . . . . . #buenosaires #argentina #southamerica #latinamerica #porteno #jacarandatree #jacaranda #purpletree #purpletrees #honeymoontravel #familytravel #coupletravel #femmetravel #natureaddict #optoutside #instatrees #treesofinstagram #parklife #parks #publicpark #culturegram #artandculture #instamuseum #instaculture #culturetravel
HAPPENING NOW: Not all Tango Shows are created equal. Some are more equal than others. @rojotangoshow 📸@sps_travel . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #buenosaires #argentina #southamerica #latinamerica #porteno #familytravel #coupletravel #femmetravel #dametraveler #honeymoontravel #arts #culture #theatres #culturegram #artandculture #instaculture #culturetravel #tango #instadance #tangoshow #instatango #argentinetango #tangoargentino #instashow #athletic #bodyfitness
HAPPENING NOW: If Beirut is the Paris of the Middle East, then Buenos Aires is the Paris of South America! Swipe left to enjoy the city’s majestic architecture incorporating the concepts of the genius behind the City of Lights — exquisite George Haussmann-style buildings with their slate roofs, diagonal avenues, roundabouts, numerous theaters and public parks found in almost every neighborhood, eclipsed only by its cafes found in every street corner! 📸@sps_travel . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #buenosaires #argentina #southamerica #latinamerica #porteno #familytravel #coupletravel #femmetravel #starchitects #archimasters #peoplewatching #archilovers #design #arts #culture #cafesociety #cafes #theatres #haussmann #museums #museumlover #culturegram #artandculture #instamuseum #instaculture #culturetravel
TOP SPS TRAVEL TIP: Planning a trip to the Middle East? Add this to your Never-Miss and Must-Visit List! Bethlehem, which is only 10km away from Jerusalem, is within the West Bank Territory of Palestine. Aside from being known as the birthplace of Jesus, Bethlehem is also home to the Walled Off Hotel owned by the talented and elusive British graffiti-artist, Banksy. You can opt to stay here for a couple of nights and spend hours and hours browsing thru its in-house Museum. It may be small and it may be unabashedly one-sided, but it definitely succeeds in getting the message across! And, if politics isn’t your thing, you can still marvel at Banksy’s witty, artistic skill in creating some of the best street art on the planet! 📸@sps_travel . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke, #traveltips . . . . . . #palestine #westbank #bethlehem #israel #middleast #walledoffhotel #boutiquehotel #uniquehotels #archilovers #politicalart #political #graffiti #graffitiartist #art #separationwall #museum #banksy #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #dametraveler #familytravel #culturegram #artandculture #culturetravel
Swipe left to marvel over Beirut —the Old and the New! Those who choose to venture to this 5,000 year old city will be rewarded with spectacularly rich and diverse historical sites ranging from the time of the Phoenicians, the Romans, the Crusaders, and the Ottomans. For nature-lovers, surf-and-ski excursions are entirely possible with easy access to the gorgeous beaches and the snow-capped mountains — all within the same day! For foodies, Beirut’s restaurants are simply world-class, no surprise there as French, Arabic and English speaking populations, have, over the centuries, made this cosmopolitan city their home. Beirut is also known for its vibrant and sophisticated nightlife where people “dance like no one’s watching”, and where private clubs and rooftop lounges abound. The “Paris of the Middle East” certainly lives up to its lofty title, and there are so many more reasons to visit this lovely gem in the Mediterranean! 📸@beirutterraces and www. speakzeasy.wordpress.com . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #beirut #lebanon #middleeast #asia #beachlover #skiing #surfing #arts #culture #culturegram #artandculture #instaculture #culturetravel #archeology, #ruins, #empire, #historicalarchitecture #historybuff #vineyards #eatlocal, #locavore, #wineries #foodandtravel #foodandwine #femmetravel #dametraveler
The small city of Datong in Northern China packs a big punch in terms of its abundance of historical relics. The city center alone boasts of several noteworthy pagodas and temples, and a short trip to the outskirts will reward you with two of the most breathtaking sites — the Hanging Temple of Hengshan and the Yungang Grottoes. The Hanging Temple was literally bolted onto the side of the cliff with its 40 rooms linked by narrow passageways. It was completed in the 5th century and dedicated to not one, but three religions, Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism. The Yungang Grottoes were completed in the 6th century and is one of the largest grotto-groups in China with 53 grottoes and 51,000 Buddhist statues. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the finest examples of rock-cut architecture in the world. 📸@astrozkd @visitchina @china.tourism . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #datong, #shanxi, #china, #asia, #chinatravel #archeology, #ruins, #empire, #chinagram #temples #captchina #UNESCO, #ig_asia, #travelasia, #doyoutravel, #instatravel, #asiatravel #honeymoon #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #wearetravelgirls #familytravel #familytrip
Margaret River, the most family-friendly wine region in Australia, and the only one in the country to have access to everything from premium wineries and world-class restaurants, to stunning beaches and forests! Easily accessible via direct flights to Perth and a scenic drive from the city, not only is Margaret River world-renowned for its award-winning Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, the region also grows some of the best local produce for farm-to-table fans. For those who prefer a more active holiday, a variety of beach and forest activities are available year-round. There are just so many things to see and do that you’ll definitely need more than a few days to explore this diverse region! 📸@gourmetescape @smiths_beach_resort @thedrinksbusiness . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #margaretriver, #perth, #oz, #straya, #australia #farmtotable, #wineries, #beachlover, #hike, #vineyards #surfing, #eatlocal, #locavore, #foodandtravel #foodandwine #eatlikealocal #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #couplesgetaway #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #familytravel #travelwithkids #familytrip #kangaroo
This charming neighborhood in the beautiful city of Cape Town is Bo-Kaap, formerly known as the Malay Quarter. During the apartheid era, this was the main township where the Cape Malays were housed, and this was also where the religion of Islam was first introduced to South Africa (the oldest mosque was established here in 1794). The Cape Malays who first resided in the Malay Quarter were known for their prized skills in carpentry, shoe making, and tailoring. Nowadays, Bo-Kaap is a highly sought after residential and commercial area, not only for its super convenient location but also for its brightly colored, pastel heritage homes and its well-preserved cobblestoned streets. 📸@andbeyondtravel . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #bokaap #capetown #southafrica #africa #tablemountain #heritage #capemalay #museum #heritagearchitecture #honeymoon #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #design #archilovers #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #familytravel #travelwithkids #doyoutravel #cobblestone #islam #muslim #mosque #gentrification #beautifulhomes
Talk about (literally) taking the plunge! If you’re brave (or crazy) enough to do a Polar Plunge in Antarctica, you will be rewarded with cheering crowds — with a penguin or a whale or two as your other witnesses, majestic icebergs as your backdrop, and the fact that you’d have just secured bragging rights till kingdom come! Just remember to fasten those GoPros tightly — apparently the Southern Ocean has managed to amass a whole collection of these devices throughout the years! 📸@antarctica_xxi . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #antarctica, #adventuretravel, #staywild, #cruiselife, #wildandfree, #goexplore, #optoutside, #the7thcontinent, #natureaddict #luxurytravel, #simplyadventure, #lifeofadventure, #luxurytraveling #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #couplesgetaway #coupletravel #honeymoon #honeymoontravel #polarplunge #adrenalinerush #adrenalinejunkie #crazystuff #extremesport #extremesports
Selected by National Geographic as the 5th most beautiful place in the world, and named as the “8th” Wonder of the World by Tripadvisor, Torres Del Paine National Park has continued to captivate travelers with its three distinctive granite peaks, rising 2,500 meters above sea level, along with its rivers, valleys, several picturesque lakes and impressive glaciers! It is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Chile with many challenging sites requiring the assistance of a certified hiking guide. Best time to visit is between the austral spring, summer and early autumn (September-April). 📸@torrespainecom . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #chile, #patagonia, #torresdelpaine, #UNESCO, #southamerica, #landscape_captures, #nationaldestination, #nationalpark, #mountains, #trek, #hike, #trekking, #hiking, #glaciers, #lakes #bestviews, #jaw_dropping_shots #fromwhereistand, #simplyadventure, #thegreatoutdoors #honeymoon #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler
Forming the heel of Italy’s “boot”, the region of Apulia or Puglia has the longest coastline in mainland Italy; and it’s also known for its well-preserved castles and medieval towns with its archeological treasures. Most of all, it is world-renowned for its Trulli — these unique, whitewashed houses with their prominent conical roofs, mostly found in the town of Alberobello. It’s these whimsical dwellings which have deemed Alberobello UNESCO World Heritage Site-worthy. A Trullo is a traditional Apulian hut originally built as storehouses or temporary shelters for the region’s wine growers. Today, most of these Trulli have been bought and restored (under strict UNESCO guidelines) by some enterprising residents, which they then converted into second homes, bed and breakfasts, or self-catering inns, which unsurprisingly, have proven to be very popular with many tourists! 📸@topflight.ie . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . . #trulli #trullo #puglia, #apulia, #alberobello #europe, #italy #UNESCO, #medievaltown, #castles #archeology #heritagebuilding #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #travelingwithkids, #honeymoondestination #coupletravel #honeymoon #bedandbreakfast #femmetravel #dametraveler #wearetravelgirls #dreamhomes #dreamhouse #boutiquehotel #uniquehotels
SPS Travel is In The House this month! Swipe left to read more about our privately guided Journey to Jordan & Israel this coming Easter 2018 — led by accomplished author, journalist and Jordan-insider, Bambina Olivares @bambina_o_! 📸@manila_house . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #manilahouse #privateclub #manila #asia #privatemembersclub #philippines #jordan #israel #easterholiday #holyland #holyweek #eastervacation #familytravel #travelingwithkids #familyvacation #familytrips #luxetraveling #luxurytravel #luxuryworldtraveler #luxurytrip #coupletravel #coupletrip #darlingescapes #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler
Antelope Canyon in Arizona is undoubtably one of the most spectacular canyons in the world! For one, these “slot canyons” take a long time to form through the years, with water rushing through, shaping and wearing down the rocks. And, this won’t happen just anywhere either — it can only be created by a totally unique combination of a particular type of rock and the ideal level of rainfall. Slot canyons are aptly named because they are quite narrow, they are deeper than they are wide and this means that dangerous flash floods can occur at anytime during a rainfall. Because of this, it is mandatory for visitors to Antelope Canyon to be accompanied by authorized tour guides, at all times. 📸@creativecommons . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #antelopecanyon #arizona #navajo #usa #northamerica #canyon #getoutside #hiking #bestviews #wonderful_places #doyoutravel #adventuretravel #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #travelingwithkids, #travelingfamily #familyvacation #holidayswithkids #honeymoondestination #familytrips #couplesgetaway #couplesretreat #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #wearetravelgirls
One of the most striking and fascinating of all of Ethiopia’s 50+ tribes is the Mursi. When a girl reaches the age of 15-16, her lower lip is cut by her mother or another woman of the same village. It is then held open by a wooden saucer or plug until it heals. It’s up to the teen to decide whether to gradually insert bigger plugs, as some can even take saucers of up 12 cm or more! Among the Mursi, it is said that the size of the lip is related to woman’s wealth and beauty — the bigger, the better! 📸@afritorial . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #mursi #ethiopia #omovalley #africa #tribe #tribal #portrait #photooftheday #natgeo #amazingafrica #portraitphotography #africa_vacations #onlyafrica #shotsofafrica #visitafrica #lifeofadventure #adventuretravel #dametraveler #femmetravel #familytrip #familytravel #honeymoon #coupletravel #couplesgetaway #coupletrip #honeymoontravel
The Philippines finally has its own National Museum of Natural History! After an ambitious and extensive 4-year restoration of what was once the Agriculture and Commerce Building, this neoclassical structure has been successfully reused, rebuilt, and even retrofitted with a distinctive glass dome — a symbol of the Tree of Life, held up by an elevator shaft designed to look like the double helix structure of the human DNA. The museum has 11 permanent galleries spread across 5 floors, and it’s on the top floor where the tour starts. Each level showcases the diversity of the Philippine ecosystem — the nation’s various flora and fauna from the tops of the vertiginous mountain provinces down to deepest fathoms of the oceanic trenches. The Museum will be formally inaugurated in mid 2018, but it will be open to select groups by the end of this year. Entrance will be free of charge for all visitors. 📸@fotomedestomas . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #nationalmuseum #naturalhistorymuseum #manila #philippines #asia #travelphilippines #itsmorefuninthephilippines, #floraandfauna #ecosystems #nationaldestination #museum #gallery #design #architecture #preservation, #conservation #heritagebuilding #redevelopment #archilovers, #historicalbuilding #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #dametraveler #familytravel #travelwithkids
BREAKING NEWS: Congratulations to the people behind Wanchai’s Blue House! This iconic building just won UNESCO’s Award of Excellence, the highest level of achievement for Cultural Heritage Conservation, and a very first for Hong Kong! Once slated for demolition, the original tenants of the Blue House, along with conservationists and social workers, successfully campaigned for its preservation. A USD 10M grant from the HK government and the St. James Settlement charity helped redevelop the cluster, and after 4 years of amazing work, revitalized it into a mixed-use complex which features 20 residential flats, 2 restaurants, a community center, and an open space for exhibits. The “Good Neighbor Scheme” was also launched alongside this project. This initiative helped select the few deserving tenants of this cluster — residents who are willing to make a positive and active contribution to the neighborhood! 📸@megqueen513 . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #hongkong, #hk, #homekong, #asia, #bluehousehk #wanchai, #preservation, #conservation #mixeduse, #heritagebuilding #redevelopment #UNESCO, #urbanplanning, #urbandevelopment, #architecture, #archilovers, #historicalbuilding #honeymoon #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #travelwithkids #familytravel #familytrip
Only a couple of hours’ drive away from the capital of Santiago, the charming coastal city of Valparaiso is known for its picturesque panorama of brightly colored homes set amidst 42 steep hills with views of the Pacific — “dishevelled hills”, as the Chilean National Poet Pablo Neruda wrote about his adopted home in his Oda a Valparaiso. These hills can easily be explored via their distinctive funicular railways built during the late 19th century. Check out the Palacio Baburizza museum, with its private collection of early 20th century art, and its next door neighbor, Alegre @palacioastoreca, the innovative waterfront restaurant helmed by an El-Bulli trained chef which has become Valparaiso’s most sought-after dining spot! 📸@bbc_travel . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #valparaiso #chile #UNESCO #southamerica #latam #ocean #funicular #elbulli #chef #gastronomy #pabloneruda #beautifulhomes #foodandtravel #foodandwine #eatlikealocal #viewfromthetop #fromwhereistand #bestviews #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #travelgirlsgo #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #familytravel #travelwithkids
TOP SPS TRAVEL TIP: Keen to catch the Northern Lights in Iceland? Travel between the months of September-April. But, do linger longer as nature can be extremely fickle! Some folks do get lucky and see them every day, but when my girlfriends and I were there in Feb for a week, we were only blessed with one evening of clear, cloud-free skies where the aurora borealis made their appearance — and it was on the night before we left! Pictured here is Hallgrimskirkja (Church of Iceland), a well-known landmark visible throughout the postcard-pretty capital city of Reykjavik. The imposing facade was designed in the style of “expressionist architecture”, symbolic of the majestic mountains and glaciers found throughout Iceland’s dramatic landscape. 📸jazztour.ru . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke, #traveltips . . . . . #hallgrimskirkja #iceland #reykjavik #europe #auroraborealis #northernlights #winteriscoming #honeymoon #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #familytravel #travelwithkids #volcano #volcanoes #archilovers #design #history #landmarks #churches #lutheran #christian #theTHORsdaygroup
For Antarctica cruise guests, not all the activities are on the water. They can sign up for 1-2 hour Snowshoeing Excursions on land where spectacular vistas await them! No previous experience is necessary and this will all be ably led by their Snowshoeing Guide. To be able to join, one should be pretty fit as it can be quite a strenuous activity. And for those who are able to embark on this expedition, I am confident that every single one of them will agree that this beats working out at the gym, anytime! 📸@antarctica_xxi . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #antarctica, #adventuretravel, #staywild, #cruiselife, #wildandfree, #goexplore, #optoutside, #the7thcontinent, #natureaddict #luxurytravel, #simplyadventure, #lifeofadventure, #luxurytraveling #snowshoe, #mountain, #hike, #fitness, #fit, #snowshoeing #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #couplesgetaway #coupletravel #honeymoon #honeymoontravel
TOP SPS TRAVEL TIP: When in India, try cruising in a Kettuvallom in Kerala! Unique to this region, many of these heritage houseboats are nearly 100 years old but have been refurbished to include modern bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens for overnight or multi-day leisure trips. Only by staying in these houseboats will you be able to access the pristine and enchanting backwaters and lively villages not easily reached by other means of transportation. Kerala is also the Land of Ayurveda — this is the oldest healthcare system in the world which focuses on the holistic care and balance of the physical, mental, and spiritual. It is the only state in India which promotes this 5,000 year old practice as their mainstream form of medicine. And, according to Ayurveda, the Monsoon season between the months of June to November is the best time for rejuvenation therapies. 📸kettuvallam.in and @keralatourism . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke, #traveltips . . . . . #kerala, #india, #asia, #incredibleindia #adventuretravel, #health, #amazingplaces, #houseboat, #cruiselife, #dametraveler, #wearetravelgirls #femmetravel, #monsoon, #ayurveda, #luxurycruise, #honeymoontravel, #honeymoon, #coupletravel, #medicaltravel, #uniquehotels, #simplyadventure, #lifeofadventure, #healthytravel, #luxurytraveling, #medicaltourism
The legendary Road to Hana on the island of Maui is a long stretch of winding highway which connects Kahului to Hana on the east side of island. There are around 620 curves, and 59 bridges, majority of which are only one lane wide. With no stops, the drive is 2.5 hours long, but more often than not, people take much longer as there are just far too many awesome sights to see — from lush tropical forests and black-sand beaches, to majestic waterfalls and gorgeous coastlines! 📸@travaasa . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #roadtohana #maui #hawaii #usa #aloha #island #beach #beachlover #bestviews #wonderful_places #doyoutravel #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #travelingwithkids, #travelingfamily #familyvacation #holidayswithkids #honeymoondestination #familytrips #honeymoon #couplesgetaway #couplesretreat #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #wearetravelgirls
One can say that the city of San Sebastian in Northern Spain has it all. It has one of the highest numbers of Michelin-starred restaurants per capita and home to the best pintxos bars in the country. It hosts the prestigious San Sebastian International Film Festival where movie stars and celebrities converge annually, and its avenues are lined with classic and beautiful Hausmann-style buildings reminiscent of Paris. Another major highlight is the abundance of art, art installations and sculptures which can be found nearly everywhere in the city. One such striking example is the Peine del Viento (Comb of the Sea). It is, arguably, the most iconic image of San Sebastian. Created and completed by the local sculptor Eduardo Chillida in 1976, Chillida had three of these 10-ton structures fused onto the rocks over the (often rough) sea so when the waves hit, the wind flows or “combs” through the sculptures. This makes for spectacular viewing as the waves can reach as high as seven meters! 📸@waelkaade . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . . #sansebastian #donostia #spain #europe #architecture #filmfestival #design #art #artist #sculpture #installation #artinstallation #installationart #foodtravel #foodforthought #culinarytravel #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #travelingwithkids #coupletravel #honeymooon, #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #wearetravelgirls
Climbing Mount Everest is all but a distant dream for many, including myself. But for those who wish to view the world’s highest peak but don’t have the fitness, the time and the resources to do so can always opt for an abbreviated trek across the charming and picturesque Sherpa villages nestled within the Himalayas. One of the highlights of this journey is the Tengboche Buddhist Monastery (pictured), considered by many as the most beautiful place in the Himalayas. Mount Ama Dablam (6,812 meters) provides the backdrop behind the Monastery which is surrounded by the majestic views of Everest (8,848 meters), as well as those of Lhotse, Makulu and Cho Oyu — the 1st, 4th, 5th and 7th highest peaks in the world! 📸@natnpl . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #nepal, #tengboche, #himalayas, #everest, #basecamp, #mounteverest, #sherpa, #mountains, #trek, #hike, #trekking, #hiking, #bestviews, #globetrekker, #viewfromthetop, #fromwhereistand, #simplyadventure, #doyoutravel, #thegreatoutdoors #honeymoon #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #architecture #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler
Way before UNESCO granted its heritage status, Antigua was the capital of the Kingdom of Guatemala under the Spanish Empire. The city is lined with beautiful Spanish Baroque-influenced architecture, several ruins of churches, and its easily navigable streets are all charmingly cobblestoned. Antigua is also surrounded by 3 massive volcanoes one of which has steam and lava rising from the top on a regular basis, all awesome places to hike up to to get the best views. Another important reason for Antigua's popularity is that it is renowned for its excellent Spanish language centers where the student-teacher ratio is 1:1, combined with homestays with a local family to ensure a full immersion. Learning a really practical and beautiful language and in such a spectacular setting — what more can any one ask for? 📸@antiguaenguatemala . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . . #antigua #guatemala #visitguatemala #UNESCO #perhapsyouneedalittleguatemala #latinamerica #baroque #coffee #mountains #ruins #volcanoes #beautifuldestinations #landscape, #spanishlanguage, #Architecture, #colonial #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #travelingwithkids #coupletravel #honeymooon, #honeymoontravel #dametraveler #wearetravelgirls #femmetravel #sheisnotlost
I hardly ever post food shots but this one is almost worthy of having its own feed! This is Skyr, the absolutely decadent Icelandic yoghurt, far richer, thicker, and creamier than anything I’ve ever tasted! My girlfriends and I were in Iceland last February for an epic girls’ trip and this was our very first encounter with this addictive dairy product. The fact that it is high in protein, and low in fat is a huge plus. It’s been a part of Icelandic cuisine for over a thousand years and we now know why it’s got the staying power! We were dining at the excellent @maturogdrykkur in Reykjavik and since I take the world’s worst food photos, I have @asideofsweet to thank for this lovely shot of the restaurant’s trademark Skyr dessert. 📸@asideofsweet . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #theTHORsdaygroup #iceland #reykjavik #nordics #europe #auroraborealis #northernlights #skyr #dessert #yoghurt #femmetravel, #wearetravelgirls, #darlingescapes #girlslovetravel, #lovetravelgirls, #travelgirls, #dametraveler #feedyouradventure #liveyouradventure #lovetravel #eatlikealocal #delish #beautifulcuisines #foodandtravel #foodgasm #foodtravel
After patiently waiting for several minutes, we were rewarded by this amazing sight — a wildebeest river crossing! Each year, around 1 million wildebeest and zebra migrate in a big loop between Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve and Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, in search of rainfall and the subsequent fresh grass to feed on. Several herds usually splinter away from the mega herd and this is just one of them making their way between territories. And, since there is no border patrol or passport control, these animals can freely cross between countries, up to several times a day! 📸safarisnapshots.com . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #serengeti #tanzania #africa #wildebeest #greatmigration #safari #glamping #honeymoon #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #familytravel #travelwithkids #natgeo #shotsofafrica #africanature #visitafrica #naturephotography #africageo #camp #africanwildlife #animals #wildlife #rivercrossing
Off to the Dolomites but skiing is not your thing? No problem! Snow-shoeing is an excellent alternative to exploring the Italian Alps. It’s very similar to hiking but it just happens to be on snow. It provides a great workout and you’ll be able to “close your rings” on your Apple Watch and Fitbit in no time so you can then indulge in the most delicious local cuisine. You can sample sublime Northern Italian dishes like pasta with mushrooms or stuffed with paté at the various “rifugios” (mountain refuge or hut) — a vast network of them are located throughout the area. Several of these rifugios have even hosted Michelin-starred chefs. And last but certainly not the least, the region is also home to the uniquely-Italian distilled spirit called Grappa and to some of the best Chardonnay vineyards in the country. 📸@dolomitemountains . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #dolomites, #italianalps, #alps, #italy, #europe #snowshoe, #ski, #mountain, #hike, #winteriscoming, #fitness, #UNESCO, #fitfam #foodandtravel #foodandwine #eatlikealocal #viewfromthetop, #fromwhereistand #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #travelgirlsgo #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #familytravel #travelwithkids
Okinawa Island was the seat of the Independent Kingdom of Ryukyu until it was captured by Japan in the late 1800s. It has a fully unique and separate culture to that of mainland Japan — its own religion, dialect and customs, and cuisine. But the main tourist draws are its finest beaches and pristine landscapes, perfect for couples, families and girlfriend getaways! One other major highlight is that this blended culture and cuisine has produced the “longest living people in the world” — there are 34 centenarians per 100,000 people! 📸@visit_okinawajapan . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #okinawa #japan #ig_japan #asia #landscape_lover #landscape #beach #beachlover #bestviews #wonderful_places #awesomeearth #traveldeeper #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #travelingwithkids, #travelingfamily #familyvacation #holidayswithkids #honeymoondestination #familytrips #honeymoon #couplesgetaway #couplesretreat #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler
Now this is what I call Bookworm Heaven! With over 120,000 books, the El Ateneo Grand Splendid in Buenos Aires is a must-visit for bibliophiles. First opened in 1919 as the El Grand Splendid Theatre, it had hosted ballet, opera and live tango performances transitioning to a cinema in 1929 and then to its current incarnation as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, in 2000. The architects made sure to preserve most of the original structure including the dome with its intricately painted frescoes, elaborate theatre boxes, plush red velvet curtains and its beautiful balconies. Over a million people visit this bookstore annually, not only for the books (the star of this theatre!), but also for its live piano music performances and its cozy coffeeshop, where comfy chairs abound. The basement is popular with families for the children’s books, and the upper floor features the store’s latest exhibitions. 📸@travelbuenosaires . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #buenosaires #argentina #southamerica #latinamerica #bookstore #booklover #bookworm #bibliophile #theatre #bookgram #books #architecture #coffeeshop #livemusic #honeymoon #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #design #travelgirlsgo #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #familytravel #travelwithkids #instatravel, #doyoutravel
SPS Travel is in the Polo Post this month! Swipe left to read more about Incredible India! 📸@manilapoloclub1909 . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #manilapoloclub #polopost #manila #makati #philippines #incredibleindia #beautifuldestinations #beautifulplaces #bestplacestogo #bestvacations #bestviews #doyoutravel #familytravel #travelingwithkids #familyvacation #familytrips #luxetraveling #luxurytravel #luxuryworldtraveler #luxurytrip #sheisnotlost #girlaroundtheworld #darlingescapes #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler
The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) in Cape Town is now OPEN! With stunning views of Table Mountain and Robben Island, MOCAA is home to Africa’s largest collection of contemporary African art. What was once a once grain silo, its soaring, 10-story high atrium was inspired by the shape of a single grain, which also has spectacularly hallowed out spaces to house all 80 galleries. Swipe left to admire and gasp over Thomas Heatherwick’s genius! 📸@iwanbaan and @zeitzmocaa . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #thomasheatherwick #zeitzmocaa #capetown #southafrica #africa #tablemountain #robbenisland #museum #gallery #honeymoon #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #design #architecture #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #familytravel #travelwithkids #artinstallation #art #africanart #contemporaryart
From now until March 31, 2019, make your way to Australia’s Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to witness artist Bruce Munro’s Field of Light — the spectacular solar-powered, large-scale installation which slowly sways and changes color, only coming to life from dusk till dawn. It took more than 25 people over a period of 5 months to install all 50,000 frosted glass buds, powered by 36 solar panels, and connected by over 380 km of optical fibre. It also covers an area greater than 4 football fields with the iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock) providing an extraordinary backdrop! 📸Fantastic photos by @markpickthall . . . From the Artist himself: “I have learnt that the work has allowed the viewer to lose themselves within it, that it has inspired, led to love, healed sadness, that it has made people think. All of us want to connect with the sense of being part of something larger than our single lives”. . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #brucemunro #northernterritory #uluru #katatjuta #AyersRock #oz #straya #redcentre #australia #unescoworldheritage #outback #landscape, #doyoutravel, #aborigines #honeymoontravel, #honeymoon #coupletrip #amazingplaces #femmetravel #sheisnotlost #dametraveler #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #artinstallation, #installationart #art
I will be launching a series of Special Personal Sojourns in collaboration with Manila House featuring unique and exclusive journeys ideal for the Chinese New Year and Easter holiday seasons, as well as for the rest of the year! If you or any of your friends or family members are free to join me on the evening of 26th Sept Tues, pls RSVP thru me. Thanks! #specialpersonalsojourns @sps_travel . . . 26th Sept Tues 6PM Manila House Private Members Club Net Park Building 26th St. corner 5th Avenue, BGC, Philippines RSVP: Shy Perez-Sala Whatsapp/Viber: +852 98306834 Email:
[email protected]
Members: Free Guests: PHP 500
Now talk about a trip being (literally) one for the books! No, this is not about spectacular scenery or glam gastronomy. This time, it’s all about about mind-blowing, Mindgrowing Holidays. Here, you can spend a few hours, a full day, or an entire weekend checking out Oxford University’s gardens, libraries and museums. Places where you can feast your eyes and minds on treasures ranging from a 4.5 billion year old meteorite to the latest toys and gadgets. From Viking tales to bear cubs’ tails. Best of all, nearly all of it is free for the whole family to enjoy! And, for the individuals who have more time and would like to be further immersed in the University culture and atmosphere, Oxford rents out student dorms during the holiday season (Christmas, Easter, Summer), where entry to all the 4 Oxford museums is free of charge. As far as I’m concerned, this holiday truly makes the grade! 📸@morethanadodo . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, . . . . . #uk, #lovegreatbritain, #oxford, #oxforduniversity, #museum, #library, #oxforduni, #familytravel, #university, #travelwithkids, #travelingwithkids, #familyvacation, #holidayswithkids, #familytrips #wearetravelgirls, #girlslovetravel, #dametraveler #womenwhotravelsolo #travelgram, #travelingourplanet #traveltheworld, #wonderful_places #world_places, #worldwonder, #CitiesByCurio #neverstopexploring
What is the largest island in the United States and still growing? Non-stop lava flows since 1983 from the Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island of Hawai’i have just added 5 acres to its shoreline and is likely to extend even more when an underwater volcano will erupt and merge with Kilauea. For the best and most dramatic views of the lava flows, experience this at night! Legend also has it the Fire Goddess Pele lives inside the Halema’uma’u crater of Kilauea — can you spot her in this photo? 📸@hawaiivolcanoesnps . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #hawaii, #kilauea, #pele, #goddess, #volcano, #volcanoes,#bucketlist, #BigIsland, #legend, #nationalpark, #lava, #lavaflow, #island, #awesomeearth #beaches #beachlife #discoverearth, #earthfocus #earthpix #mothernature #nature_perfection, #wearetravelgirls, #girlslovetravel, #lovetravelgirls, #travelgirls, #dametraveler
A couple of hours away from the highly urbanized city of Manila is the Masungi Georeserve, a protected area deep in the middle of the forests of Rizal, known for its towering karst limestone cliffs. It is between the two of the tallest and sturdiest of these cliffs that an ingeniously designed metal cobweb was created for the visitors of the park to enjoy 360-degree views of the Sierra Madre mountain range and the beautiful Laguna de Bay, the biggest lake in the Philippines. Guests will need to hike and climb with their georeserve guides up these metal ropeways to reach a platform which will then allow them to walk (or even lay down) on suspended cobweb netting hundreds of feet above the forest floor below! People will just need to conquer their fear of heights in order to be rewarded with spectacular views from above. There is plenty to do in the Georeserve -- from spotting the resident wildlife, discovering hidden caves, to heading over other karst formations which are connected by hanging bridges. And, there are rope courses and eco-trails to be enjoyed by everyone (as long as you're over the age of 13). The most famous of all the rope courses is called Duyan (Hammock) as this hammock-like structure spans hundreds of feet wide where people can lay down to rest after their strenuous 3-4 hour hike. Masungi accepts groups of 7-10 persons, visits are by reservation only and walk-ins are not allowed. 📸@masungigeoreserve . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #rizal, #philippines, #asia, #manila, #georeserve, #climb, #mountain, #lake, #trek, #hike, #bridge, #cliffs, #bestviews, #globetrekker, #dametraveler, #viewfromthetop, #fromwhereistand, #simplyadventure, #traveldeeper #travelawesome, #doyoutravel, #thegreatoutdoors, #travelstoke, #wearetravelgirls, #iamatraveler, #fantastic_earth
TOP SPS TRAVEL TIP: Fancy going on a sensational hot air balloon ride at sunrise? This amazing journey will fly you over the thousands of temples dotting Bagan’s Ayeyarwady Plain. But, remember, this can only be done between the months of October - March. Perfect timing for the October National Holidays all across Asia! Or, for a fun getaway with the girls over a long weekend! . . . #bagan, #myanmar, #hotairballoon #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke, #traveltips . . . #asia, #asia_vacations, #ig_asia, #igtravel, #instatravel, #lifewelltraveled, #doyoutravel, #travelawesome, #travelstoke, #traveldeeper, #traveladdict, #passionpassport, #landscape, #ig_landscape, #sunrise_sunsets_aroundworld, #femmetrips, #femmetravel, #girlslovetravel, #lovetravelgirls, #dametraveler , #darlingweekend, #weekendgetaway
Meeting the #Meerkats of the #Makgadikgadi . . . #tbt, #throwbackthursday, #tbthursday, #takemeback #sps_travel, #specialpersonalsojourns, #bucketlist, #privateguide, #bespoketravel, #tailormadetravel, @sps_travel, @shysala #girlstrip, #girlfriendgetaways, #femmetrips, #femmetravel, #wearetravelgirls, #girlslovetravel, #lovetravelgirls, #travelgirls, #dametraveler
Check out my feature @catchonco's Insights: What's Trending in Travel Now? Link in bio! . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #doyoucatchon #catchonco #traveltrends #trends #traveltips #familytravel #travelwithkids, #familytrips #instatravel #instapassport #luxurytravel #luxurytraveling #femmetravel, #wearetravelgirls, #girlslovetravel, #travelgirls, #dametraveler #passionpassport #traveldeeper #travelstoke #travelawesome #beautifuldestinations #adventuretravel #iamatraveler #peopleoftravel #sheisnotlost
In honor of my dearest #girlfriends and @sps_travel VVVIP clients, who went on a completely life-changing, eye-opening, privately guided trip to #Iceland! #clients #northernlights #auroraborealis #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis #tbt #throwbackthursday @sps_travel @shysala #sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel #privateguide #familytravel
It's been exactly a week since our #mindblowing, #lifealtering #girlstrip to #iceland. Missing everything about it, especially this #spectacular #Glacier #Hike. It was totally #outofmycomfortzone but I totally loved it! #glacierhike #volcanoes #volcano #theTHORsdaygroup #goldencircle @pammyzammy @cheeky_chinay @yehlin_and_tehlin @mayapapaya71 @shysala @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
#Nosh from the #Nordics...Icelandic vodka and black lava salt. Estonian liqueur. Smoked reindeer, trout, and elk from Finland. #goodybag #stash #haul #eatlikealocal #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #lootbags @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
I feel like I time traveled all the way back to the 1400's. This is the alley where the members of the #artisan guild of Tallinn sold their unique, handcrafted wares. The artisans and products may have changed through the years, but the place remains the same. #timetravel #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #tallinn #estonia #helsinki #finland @pammyzammy @yehlin_and_tehlin @mayapapaya71 @cheeky_chinay @shysala @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
Charming. Just charming. #unescoworldheritagesite #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #tallinn #estonia #helsinki #finland @pammyzammy @yehlin_and_tehlin @mayapapaya71 @cheeky_chinay @shysala @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
The elegant Kadriorg Palace in one of Estonia's most impressive urban parks, Kadriorg Park. #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #tallinn #estonia #helsinki #finland @pammyzammy @yehlin_and_tehlin @mayapapaya71 @shysala @cheeky_chinay @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
One of the most well-preserved #medieval houses in Estonia, which is now home to the Tallinn City Theatre. #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #tallinn #estonia #helsinki #finland @pammyzammy @yehlin_and_tehlin @mayapapaya71 @shysala @cheeky_chinay @sps_travel #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel #specialpersonalsojourns
Our charming hotel in Helsinki is #oneofakind. It's built around a century-old #artnouveau #castle, centrally and perfectly located in the city's world-renowned Design District. #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #helsinki #finland @pammyzammy @yehlin_and_tehlin @mayapapaya71 @shysala @cheeky_chinay @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
The #ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn is HUUUUGE! It has a casino and supermarket; and you can park several cars inside. This ain't no #starferry, that's for sure. #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #tallinn #estonia #helsinki #finland @pammyzammy @yehlin_and_tehlin @mayapapaya71 @shysala @cheeky_chinay @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
#Cathedral built on #beer. (Financed by the family who owns Finland's #Koff Beer). #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #helsinki #finland @pammyzammy @yehlin_and_tehlin @mayapapaya71 @shysala @cheeky_chinay @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
#aurorababeialis Jaw-dropping moment captured by @cheeky_chinay. #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #auroraborealis #Iceicebabes #iceland @pammyzammy @yehlin_and_tehlin @mayapapaya71 @shysala @cheeky_chinay @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
#aurorababeialis Jaw-dropping moment captured by @cheeky_chinay. #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #auroraborealis #Iceicebabes #iceland @shysala @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
#lightpollution from the city and the cellphone. #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis #auroraborealis #Iceicebabes #iceland @pammyzammy @cheeky_chinay @yehlin_and_tehlin @mayapapaya71 @shysala @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
These #northernlights seduced us with a slow, mesmerizing dance across the skies while #Nordic folk songs were being sung by our guides. Wow. What a send-off from #mothernature on our very last night in Iceland. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis #auroraborealis #Iceicebabes #iceland @pammyzammy @cheeky_chinay @yehlin_and_tehlin @mayapapaya71 @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel @shysala
It's always a pleasure to check out brand new places in the city! This gem of a hotel is Canopy by Hilton, the uber-stylish sister property of the hipster-hangout, IG-friendly Marina Hotel. #savethebestforlast. #chicboutique #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis #Iceicebabes #iceland @pammyzammy @cheeky_chinay @yehlin_and_tehlin @mayapapaya71 @shysala @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
This is definitely a must-do when in Iceland. The Blue Lagoon is the most popular attraction in this country, but it never feels too crowded and touristy. (And may it remain that way). #bluelagoon #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis #Iceicebabes #iceland @pammyzammy @cheeky_chinay @yehlin_and_tehlin @mayapapaya71 @shysala @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
The #lunar #landscape of Iceland. #nofilter #otherworldly #alien #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis #Iceicebabes #iceland @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
#Seljalandsfoss. This is one of the few #waterfalls in the world where it is possible to walk around and view it from behind. #waterfall #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis #Iceicebabes #iceland @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
Black sand beach. #thisnevergetsold #nofilter #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis #Iceicebabes #iceland @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
Don't ever miss the #Glacier #Hike in Iceland! Wow, just wow. #glacierhike #volcanoes #volcano #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis #Iceicebabes #iceland @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
Looks benign and harmless but this is actually the very same #volcano which blew up in April 2010 and wreaked havoc all over Europe! (And this is the small one. They have two others which are much bigger than this)! #Eyjafjallajökull. Repeat after me... EYA FYAT YA YOKULT. In English: Island Mountain Glacier Volcano. #mothernature #volcanoes #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis #Iceicebabes #iceland @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
Loving our super stylish and warm @verloopknits #trio #knit #gloves (which made it to #oprahsfavoritethings and @todayshow). Thank you so much @limez_hk! #verloopknits #apairandaspare #touchscreenfriendly #knits #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis #Iceicebabes #iceland @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
This is one of the things you need to try at least once in your life! , , , , , #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #iceland #europe #snow #winter #snowmobile #glacier #femmetravel, #wearetravelgirls, #darlingescapes #girlslovetravel, #lovetravelgirls, #travelgirls, #dametraveler #adventuretravel, #getoutside, #borntoroam, #amazingplaces, #bucketlist, #staywild, #roamtheplanet, #igtravel, #wanderlust, #wildandfree, #goexplore, #optoutside, #thegreatoutdoors
When in Iceland, do as the Icelanders do — ride the Icelandic Horse! These special horses are purebred, gentle, hardy, and they are the only breed to display two other gaits in addition to the typical walk, trot, and canter/gallop. An excellent and fun way to explore the Icelandic countryside. . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #iceland #reykjavik #europe #icelandichorse #horseriding #horsebackriding #femmetravel, #wearetravelgirls, #darlingescapes #girlslovetravel, #lovetravelgirls, #travelgirls, #dametraveler #adventuretravel, #getoutside, #borntoroam, #amazingplaces, #bucketlist, #staywild, #roamtheplanet, #igtravel, #wanderlust, #wildandfree, #goexplore, #optoutside, #thegreatoutdoors
You know you've landed in a #nordic country when even the #airports are #chic! #helsinki #finland #girlstrip #toHELandback #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis #Iceicebabes @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
Praying that #mothernature will be extra kind to us on our #specialpersonalsojourns from #Hongkong to #Iceland. #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis #Iceicebabes @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
Looking forward to our visit to this magical city next week. Not to be missed when one is already in #Finland! Just a short, two hour ferry ride away from #helsinki is the capital city of #Estonia. Dubbed the #siliconvalley of #europe, #Tallinn has the highest number of #startups per capita in the continent (#skype is their most famous export). @tallinnoldtown is also a #unescoworldheritage site as it is one of the most well-preserved #medieval cities in Europe. #mustsee #toHELandback #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis #Iceicebabes @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
It's too bad that we would have just missed this awesome #lightart #installation by the renowned Icelandic #artist Ingvar Bjorn, inspired by different Icelandic #volcanoes. This is @hallgrimskirkja (Church of Iceland) in the style of #expressionist #architecture designed to resemble the basalt lava flows of the dramatic Icelandic landscape. #girlstrip #theTHORsdaygroup #aurorababeialis @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel #toHELandback #Iceicebabes
Missing #mexicocity like crazy but thankfully these cute @verloopknits #trio #knit #gloves ( which made it to #oprahsfavoritethings and @todayshow ) arrived in the mail, reminding me that I still have my #Finland and #Iceland #girlstrip to look forward to next weekend! #apairandaspare #touchscreenfriendly #knits #thethorsdaygroup #iceicebabes #aurorababeialis @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel