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
Aqua Expeditions perfectly combine both design and comfort in all their luxury vessels which carry intrepid travelers across the Amazon River, the largest river system in the world. After disembarking for short jungle treks in the surrounding rainforest, and indulging in a breakfast picnic, one can also kayak, canoe and swim across the waters where encounters with the rare Pink Dolphins might be entirely possible. On some expeditions, the team might even invite celebrity Peruvian chefs to create unforgettable meals using local ingredients, as well as world-renowned naturalists who will hold noteworthy lectures on-board about the fascinating Amazon ecosystem. 📸@aqua_expeditions . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #peru, #rainforest, #amazonriver #southamerica #adventuretravel, #naturalists, #lectures, #amazingplaces, #cruiselife, #igtravel, #luxuryliving, #wildandfree, #luxurycruise, #luxurytravel, #simplyadventure, #lifeofadventure, #luxurytraveling, #pinkdolphins #honeymoon #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #couplesgetaway #eatlikealocal #foodandtravel #foodgasm #foodtravel
Cuba, the land where time seems to have stood still is a country filled with contradictions. It is one of the last strongholds of Communist rule but is nearly next-door neighbors with the USA, the bastion of Democracy! It still remains as one of the least touristy destinations, but it is situated right smack in the middle of one of the world’s most visited regions, the Caribbean. If you find yourselves there one of these days, get lost in the city of Havana where lovely pastel, Spanish-colonial homes line the streets. Take a ride on a 1950’s convertible, roll a Cuban cigar, try some of its world-famous Rum, and dance the Salsa at the Tropicana! 📸@islands_com . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . . #cuba, #latinamerica, #southamerica #havana #habana #caribbean #rum #cubalibre #UNESCO, #colonial #classiccar #archilovers #cubancigar #salsa #salsadancing #instatravel, #awesomeglobe #foodandtravel #foodandwine #eatlikealocal #coupletravel #honeymoontravel #couplesgetaway #familytravel #travelwithkids #familytrip
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
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
Only one of two in the world, the Salt Cathedral is located an hour’s drive away from Bogota. Built inside a mountain, 180 meters underground, this place contains some of the largest rock salt reserves in the world. Originally, a smaller church was built for the miners who were going to work in the salt mines but a newer one in the 1990’s was constructed and this has become one of Colombia’s most popular tourist destinations. This cathedral is actually made up of 14 small chapels, linked together by tunnels, to symbolize the 14 Stations of the Cross. Visitors can explore the tunnels using helmet lamps and admire the various structures and statues carved out of rock salt and marble. 📸@neyvachd . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #colombia, #latinamerica, #latam, #southamerica, #bogota, #igerscolombia, #colombia_greatshots #architecture #archilovers #travelgram, #bestplacestogo #church #saltcathedral, #cathedral #letsgosomewhere, #travelstoke, #wonderful_places, #welivetoexplore #undergroundcave, #cave #saltmine, #saltmines #travelawesome, #doyoutravel #instatravel, #simplyadventure
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
Yes, mountains made of rainbows actually do exist in real life! Peru’s Vinicunca is one such mountain, hidden deep in the Andes, 100km away from Cusco. If challenging hikes are your thing, within 3 hours or so, you’ll be rewarded with the distinctive views of the Rainbow Mountain, striped with colors ranging from red and gold to lavender and blue, all caused by different layers of sediment exposed to the environment over millions of years! 📸@perulocal . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #vinicunca, #rainbowmountain, #andes, #peru, #igersperu, #paintedmountain, #southamerica, #ausangate, #latam, #cuzco #cusco, #experienceperu, #discoverperu #mountain, #mountains, #trek, #hike, #trekking, #hiking, #bestviews, #viewfromthetop, #fromwhereistand, #simplyadventure, #doyoutravel, #thegreatoutdoors, #awesomedreamplaces,
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
The Uros, ancient indigenous people of Peru and Bolivia, who were once forced off their lands by the Incas have, for centuries, taken up residence on these seemingly magical floating islands made of reeds. 42 of these handmade islands are located all around the world’s highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca. The Uros make use of the plentiful tortora weed to make their fishing boats, homes, furniture and also the land which they live on. Whenever the reeds disintegrate, they simply add more layers on top! 📸@titilakaperu . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #laketiticaca #lagotiticaca #peru #southamerica #latam #travelperu #IgersPeru #DiscoverSouthAmerica #ExperiencePeru #UnlimitedSouthAmerica #adventuretravel, #amazingplaces, #boat, #lake, #roamtheplanet, #igtravel, #goexplore, #welltraveled, #seetheworld, #islandlife, #simplyadventure, #lifeofadventure, #handmade, #islands, #traveldeeper #doyoutravel
Today, 15 September, is the day Charles Darwin arrived at the Galapagos on the HMS Beagle -- 182 years ago! While I do realize that a photo of a hammerhead shark is an unusual choice to represent these islands — surely one of the most amazing places on earth where the wildlife can safely come up to you. (The lack of natural predators make these Iguanas, Sea Lions, Blue Footed Boobies, and Giant Tortoises completely fearless). But, what some people don’t know is that these islands are also the best places to scuba dive with some of the largest schools of Hammerhead Sharks in the world! Only accessible via a live-aboard, the remote islands of Darwin and Wolf are their ideal feeding grounds and each year around June to November, thousands upon thousands of these sharks migrate to these northernmost islands. It is not uncommon to be diving with around 300 or so of these sharks! The good news is that there is also a large resident population thereby providing ample opportunity to dive with them all year-round. 📸@galapagosconservancy . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #galapagos, #ecuador, #hammerhead, #shark, #PADI, #beaches, #diving, #scuba, #dive, #scubadiving, #liveaboard, #thegreatoutdoors, #letsgosomewhere, #travelstoke, #wonderful_places, #welivetoexplore, #amazingplaces #letsgoeverywhere, #travelmore #worldnomads, #traveldeeper #travelawesome, #doyoutravel #instatravel, #simplyadventure, #adventuretravel,
Rio de Janiero. Sao Paulo. Most travelers to Brazil make a beeline for these two — the largest and most cosmopolitan cities of the country. However, many do not realize that the culinary capital (and, indeed, Brazil’s first capital city), and the center of colonial art & architecture, is the Afro-Brazilian city of Salvador de Bahia. Heavily influenced by the early African slaves of the colonial era, as well as the Indian and Portugese settlers who profited from the sugar trade the best of Brazilian cuisine can be found here. This is also the birthplace of the captivating martial art of capoeira, which combines elements of dance, acrobatics and music. Pictured here is the historic and vibrant center of Pelourinho (Pelo). Pelo has the largest collection of Baroque colonial architecture in Latin America and is also where the biggest fiesta in town is held annually — the Salvador Carnaval — rivaled only by the Carnaval in Rio! 📸@visitbrasil . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, @shysala . . . . . #brazil, #brasil, #pelo, #pelourinho, #salvadordebahia, #bahia, #carnaval, #capoeira, #baroque, #architecture, #art, #lifewelltravelled, #travelawesome #travelbug, #travelgram, #travelingourplanet #traveltheworld, #wonderful_places #CitiesByCurio, #streetfood #foodandtravel #foodandwine, #eattheworld, #eatwelllivewell #foodtravel, #culinarytravel
San Miguel de Allende is the birthplace of Ignacio Allende, hero of the Mexican independence movement. It’s only fitting that this quaint, picturesque town also leads the charge in the country’s design, arts and handicrafts offerings as the quality and variety of the work its resident and visiting artists produce are equal-parts creative and impressive! Buildings in bright orange, fuchsia, cobalt blue and red ochre dot the landscape and charmingly rustic cobblestones line the streets. A perennial favorite place to stay at is the Rosewood San Miguel de Allende. This exquisite art-filled property is so welcoming of everyone, from couples & honeymooners, to parents with small kids (they have a Kids Club on site) — and best of all some of the more (or most) cherished members of the family, their household pets! 📸@rwsanmiguel . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #mexico, #sanmigueldeallende, #sunset #art #architecture #history #handicrafts #latinamerica #design #indulge, #luxury, #sunsetoftheday, #luxuryhotel, #luxurylife, #luxurytravel,#bestviews #petfriendly, #honeymoontravel, #familyvacation, #honeymoon, #familytravel, #beautifulhotels, #beautifuldestinations, #travelingwithkids #traveltheworld, #travelgram
Lake Atitlan is Guatemala’s most visited attraction and quite rightly so. Even the acclaimed writer Aldous Huxley wrote of its beauty and hailed it as the Lake Como of Latin America (but far prettier). It is the deepest lake in Central America which fills up a massive caldera and is ringed by 3 immense volcanoes. One can hike, kayak, dive, or just chill and soak up the sun’s rays. If you manage to peel yourself away from its mesmerizing views, don’t miss a chance to visit Lake Atitlan’s neighboring Mayan towns to enjoy the local cuisine, the vibrant markets, and of course, the amazing coffee, which Guatemala is also well known for. 📸@alarguetaphotography . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . . #guatemala #visitguatemala #lagoatitlan #lakeatitlan #perhapsyouneedalittleguatemala #latinamerica #mayan #coffee #mountains #lake #volcanoes #doyoutravel, #instatravel, #beautifuldestinations #wonderful_places #landscape, #ig_landscape #sunset_pics, #mirrorgram, #mirror, #travelawesome, #tourtheplanet, #bestplacestogo, #earthlandscape, #awesomepix, #naturephotography
So you want to bring the whole family to Patagonia but feeling daunted by its remoteness and rugged terrain? Uman Lodge should be at the very top of your list! With just 16 rooms and stunning views of the Andes mountains from all angles, it also has a working farm with a variety of activities to cater to everyone’s interests. An excellent time to visit is during the region’s spring/summer (Nov-Feb) and fall (March-May). Hope to see you there! 📸@umanlodge_patagonia . . . . . #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #patagonia, #igerspatagonia, #chile, #chilegram, #igerschile, #southamerica, #visitsouthamerica #familyvacation, #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #holidayswithkids, #familytrips, #passionpassport, #travelawesome, #seetheworld, #vacationtime, #doyoutravel, #instatravel, #travelstoke, #passportready, #traveltheworld, #aroundtheworld, #theworldshotz, #iamatraveler, #worldtravelbook, #exploretocreate
In my previous post, I mentioned that the best season to travel to the Uyuni Salt Flats is during the dry months of April to November -- and the best way to do it is via the deluxe Airstream Trailer. However, during the rainy season from December to March, a unique photographic opportunity awaits — rainwater sitting on the salt flats creates a reflection so clear it's as if you’re staring at a mirror! 📸@andrewdarephotography . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, #traveltips . . . . . #bolivia, #salardeuyuni, #uyuni, #saltflats, #airstream, #camping, #glamping, #trailer, #camper, #beautifuldestinations, #adventuretravel, #getoutside, #mirror, #amazingplaces, #luxurytraveler, #desert, #roamtheplanet, #stimuli4inspo, #luxurytravel, #travelstoke, #welltraveled, #puddlegram, #luxurytrip, #iamatraveler, #mirrorgram
TOP SPS TRAVEL TIP: This beauty is the deluxe Airstream Trailer which is pretty much like a desert caravan — on steroids! Inside, it has a double bed (changeable to twin), private bath with shower, sofa and coffee table, closet and luggage space, heating and AC, iPod port and mini-bar! It also comes with its own private chef, driver and guide which will enable you to tour the Uyuni Salt Flats in relative isolation, driving and staying well away from the hordes of tourists who are drawn by the otherworldly beauty of the Salar de Uyuni. But, remember, direct bookings are currently not possible — you can secure these Airstreams only through reputable travel consultants. Best season to travel is during the dry months of April to November. 📸Pascal Richard . . . . . @shysala, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, #privateguide, #bespoke, #traveltips . . . . . #bolivia, #salardeuyuni, #uyuni, #saltflats, #airstream, #camping, #glamping, #trailer, #camper, #beautifuldestinations, #awesomedreamplaces, #adventuretravel, #getoutside, #borntoroam, #amazingplaces, #luxurytraveler, #desert, #roamtheplanet, #stimuli4inspo, #luxurytravel, #travelstoke, #welltraveled, #seetheworld, #luxurytrip, #iamatraveler
Multi-generational travel has certainly come a long way! For those who prefer to venture farther, the beautiful Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado offers endless options for guests of all ages, ranging from horseback riding to river rafting, from yoga to feeding the baby alpacas. These activities are sure to make all members of the family -- from grandparents to toddlers -- happy campers on holiday! Best of all, the hotel is only less than two hours away from Machu Picchu by train. Machu Picchu has been voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. A must-visit when in Peru! 📸@belmondhotelriosagrado . . . . . #peru, #igersperu, #machupicchu, #perugram, #specialpersonalsojourns, #sps_travel, @shysala, #privateguide, #bespoke . . . . . #southamerica, #visitsouthamerica #familyvacation, #familytravel, #travelwithkids, #holidayswithkids, #familytrips, #passionpassport, #travelawesome, #seetheworld, #vacationtime, #doyoutravel, #instatravel, #travelstoke, #passportready, #traveltheworld, #aroundtheworld, #theworldshotz, #bestintravel, #worldtravelbook, #exploretocreate, #welltraveled
SWIPE LEFT FOR MORE PHOTOS. The #welcomingcommittee @haciendazuleta. (Photo credits: @lesan.malana and @cmalana). #clients #babymoon #ecuador #andes #andesmountains @sps_travel @shysala #sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel #privateguide #familytravel
SWIPE LEFT FOR MORE PHOTOS. In honor of my dear family members and @sps_travel VVVIP clients @lesan.malana and @cmalana, who went on a #cultural #exploration of the totally #gorgeous and totally #underrated #Quito and the #Andes #Mountains. (Photo credits: @lesan.malana and @cmalana). #clients #babymoon #ecuador #unescoworldheritagesite @sps_travel @shysala #sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel #privateguide #familytravel
There's no escaping 'coz I sea you lion there! #sealion #galapagos #ecuador #charlesdarwin @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
One of the most beautiful #boutiquehotels I've had the pleasure to visit and stay. Casa Gangotena, the Grande Dame of #Quito . #ecuador @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
#Journey thru the #Andean #cloudforest by #skybike . A #humanpowered two-seat bike dangling between a 656-foot cable stretched across the #forest #canopy and a river gorge, reaching as high as 196 feet up in the air. The Sky Bike is #noiseless so it allows you get up close and personal to the resident #wildlife of #Mashpi , this wonderfully #protected 3,200 acre #biodiversity #reserve . This was an #experienceofalifetime for me. A must, when in @mashpilodge . #ecuador @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
#Quito in #Ecuador was a complete surprise with its perfect weather, beautiful culture and gorgeous scenery. This is where I discovered one of the greatest #artists who has ever lived. He is Oswaldo #Guayasamin and this is just one of his powerfully evocative works, Lagrimas De Sangre (Tears of Blood), 1973. If you find yourselves in Quito, do not ever miss a visit to @museo_del_hombre . @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
#Iguana get me some of that! #galapagos #ecuador #charlesdarwin @sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #wanderlust #bespoke #tailormade #travel
@sps_travel #specialpersonalsojourns #bucketlist #travel #unique #luxury #firsthand #expert #private #vip #limited #oneonone #knowledge #tripofalifetime #adventure #journey #seamless #asia #australia #europe #northamerica #southamerica
