Kareem George with renowned Aquavit Chef, Emma Bengtsson, onboard Explora Journeys
Greetings,
We hope your new year has already started off with inspiring travels!
In this issue we invite you to experience a real life fairytale, the Nimb Hotel. We also take you to the far east to discover a unique art island.
Turning to the world of cruising, learn what is being done to preserve the seas for generations to come. Sustainability is a top priority throughout the travel industry.
Enjoy and safe travels!
Kareem
CEO, Culture Traveler, LLC
A Real Life Fairy Tale: The Nimb Hotel
by Fritz Morsches, Business Development Consultant
Copenhagen is a delightful and stylish city, with handsome cobbled squares and copper-roofed townhouses complemented by elegant modern architecture, and the Nimb Hotel, located in central Copenhagen is pure magic.
An exterior night-time view of the Nimb Hotel facade
With the best location in the city, the Nimb Hotel, entered off of a busy street, lies directly across from the Copenhagen Central Train Station. Once inside the rather stark white, ultramodern threshold, guests pass into the intimate lobby, and the enchantment begins. Filled with fragrant flowers, Asian and European antiques, and cutting-edge contemporary artwork and furnishings, this historic building abuts the extraordinary Tivoli Gardens. Nimb guests are provided with a special wristband that provides access to Tivoli at any time of the day or night.
Fragrant peonies adorn the lobby
Simply pass through the lobby to the back of the hotel, and one enters Tivoli, one of our favorite spots in the world. This was the inspiration for Walt Disney's Disneyland. Since 1843, Tivoli has delighted many generations of visitors of all ages with remarkable gardens, cuisine of all types, and entertainment.
The hotel, created from a historic building, initially an exhibition space for Tivoli, is only 16 years old. It was renovated and enlarged in 2017 and now consists of 38 rooms and suites, all except one have views of Tivoli. The rooms and suites, unique in configuration and design, are elegant and extremely comfortable- a wonderful combination of contemporary and traditional decor. The rooms in the new wing, opened in 2017, are more spacious and the preferred accommodations.
Exterior view of the Nimb Roof
The Nimb Roof, above this new wing, features a spectacular roof terrace with a heated pool and cocktail lounge. Last summer we enjoyed a special dinner on the Roof, with marvelous drinks, a special BBQ dinner and a fantastic live musical trio and vocalist, which performed light jazz and rock. Overlooking the rooftops of Copenhagen, it was another enchanting experience at the Nimb.
Additional dining venues include the Nimb Brasserie, a beautiful light-filled space where French-inspired breakfast, lunch and dinner are served, and the Fru Nimb, an outdoor restaurant facing Tivoli, where a casual lunch is offered. The Nimb Wellness facility features a Moroccan Hamman and a well-equipped gym.
The hotel, in addition to its adjacency to Tivoli, is within an easy walk to several world-class museums, including the superb Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek (for sculpture and painting), wonderful shopping, and the many interesting sites of Copenhagen.
Fairy tales do come true at the Nimb Hotel :)
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Hotel arrangements require significant time to properly research and manage - particularly, if there are special needs to be met or if changes or cancellations are necessary. Our experienced team assures your satisfaction in terms of hotel choice, room selection (including upgrades upon availability), special benefits, and pricing.
Please contact us to discuss your upcoming hotel and resort planning
Sailing Into a Sustainable Future
by Suzanne Rinfret Moore, Luxury Cruise Consultant
As the world becomes increasingly aware of the environmental impact of travel, the cruise industry is undergoing a transformative shift towards sustainability. Cruise lines are now not only promising luxurious voyages but also pledging commitments to eco-friendly practices. In this exploration of sustainable cruising, we'll delve into key players leading the charge—Explora Journeys, MSC Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, and Celebrity Cruises. Together, these cruise lines are charting a course towards a more sustainable and responsible future for the entire industry.
In these efforts, cruise lines are taking meaningful steps to reduce their ecological footprint. Onboard, initiatives such as providing reusable water bottles in each cabin, not only for ensuite water but also as a personalized gift for guests, showcase a commitment to minimizing single-use plastics. Water filling stations are strategically placed on the ships, encouraging guests to embrace reusable containers throughout their journey. Moreover, a collective effort to eliminate single-use items and incorporate more biodegradable materials is transforming the cruising experience. As these cruise lines prioritize sustainability, travelers can expect not only opulent voyages but also an opportunity to contribute to a greener and more eco-conscious exploration of the seas.
1. Explora Journeys: Navigating Towards Sustainable Seas Explora Journeys has emerged as a key player in the quest for sustainable cruising, embracing environmentally conscious practices to navigate towards a greener future. With a commitment to minimizing their ecological footprint, Explora Journeys is investing in cutting-edge technologies and responsible operational practices.
A notable development in Explora Journeys' sustainability journey is the introduction of six new ships, each contributing uniquely to environmental conservation. Ships #3 and #4 will be powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels, significantly reducing emissions. Moreover, ships #5 and #6 will embrace hydrogen propulsion, marking a groundbreaking step towards zero-emission cruising. This transition to hydrogen represents a leap forward in environmental responsibility, as it produces only water vapor as a byproduct, ensuring minimal impact on the delicate ecosystems these vessels traverse.
As Explora Journeys charts a course towards the future, each new ship becomes a testament to their dedication to preserving the beauty of our oceans and destinations. Travelers embarking on these luxurious voyages not only indulge in opulence but also actively contribute to a more sustainable exploration of the seas. The introduction of these new ships marks a milestone in Explora Journeys' sustainable journey, promising a future where luxury and eco-consciousness seamlessly coexist on the high seas.
2. MSC Cruises: Commitment to Carbon Neutrality MSC Cruises is making significant strides in becoming the world's first carbon-neutral major global cruise line. Through partnerships with leading renewable energy providers and the implementation of advanced technologies, MSC aims to offset its carbon emissions and transition towards a more sustainable cruising model. Their commitment extends to investing in eco-friendly ship designs and renewable energy sources.
3. Oceania Cruises: Crafting Sustainable and Culinary Voyages Oceania Cruises is making waves in sustainable cruising by crafting voyages that not only indulge the senses but also prioritize eco-friendly practices. With a focus on sustainable sourcing of ingredients for their renowned culinary experiences and implementing energy-efficient technologies, Oceania Cruises offers travelers a luxurious yet environmentally conscious journey. The cruise line's commitment to sustainability aligns with its dedication to providing exceptional culinary delights, creating a harmonious blend of opulence and responsible travel.
Click HERE to continue reading the full article…
Discover Naoshima Island
Yahoi Kusama's iconic Yellow Pumpkin sculpture stands by Miyanoura Port, Naoshima Island, Japan
Culture Traveler Luxury Travel Advisor, Elizabeth Sherbin, recently explored Japan's Naoshima Island with her family. This artistic haven in the Seto Inland Sea, often referred to as the "Art Island," became the backdrop for a unique experience offering an engaging blend of contemporary art, natural beauty, and an extraordinary stay at the renowned Benesse House – an accommodation that is a combination of museum and resort hotel.
Naoshima Island has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few decades. What was once a quiet fishing village has become a hub for contemporary art, thanks to the visionary initiatives of the Benesse Corporation. The island is dotted with outdoor installations, galleries, and museums that seamlessly integrate with the natural surroundings. This unique marriage of art and nature is the brainchild of the acclaimed architect Tadao Ando and serves as a testament to the island's commitment to cultural enrichment.
At the heart of Naoshima's cultural scene stands Benesse House, a groundbreaking establishment that blurs the lines between museum and resort hotel. Designed by Ando, the complex comprises a series of buildings that house both contemporary art spaces and luxurious accommodations. Guests are immersed in a living gallery, surrounded by carefully curated artworks that enrich their stay.
Benesse House consists of four distinct buildings: Museum, Oval, Park, and Beach. Each structure is a work of art in its own right, offering a unique aesthetic and perspective.
A Quartet of Art and Luxury: The Museum, Oval, Benesse House Park, and Beach
The Oval, another part of the Benesse House complex, stands out as a low-rise, oval-shaped structure nestled into the island's greenery. With its large windows, this building provides guests with breathtaking views of the surrounding nature, creating a tranquil and contemplative atmosphere. The seamless integration of architecture and landscape design makes The Oval a perfect escape for those seeking a serene retreat within the context of both museum and resort.
The Benesse House Park building adds another layer to the establishment's allure. Offering a collection of guest rooms and a sculpture garden, this structure harmonizes art with the island's natural beauty. Guests can wander through the outdoor spaces, enjoying sculpture, greenery, and the Seto Inland Sea as a backdrop.
Completing the quartet is Benesse House Beach, which boasts stunning views of the ocean. This building provides a more casual and relaxed atmosphere, inviting guests to unwind in an environment that reflects the island's coastal charm. The beachfront location adds a touch of tranquility to the overall experience, making it an ideal spot to enjoy the beauty of Naoshima.
Message us for more information on Naoshima Island and to design your special trip to Japan.
Mystery Photo: Where is This?
Hint: Guess the scene of this mystery destination where the night sky becomes a canvas for celestial wonders, creating a spectacle for the Arctic night.
Contact us by clicking here to submit your answer. The answer and winner will be announced in our next newsletter...
November's Mystery Photo: St-Kitts, Nevis
The Hint: It stands as the birthplace of a distinguished figure in the founding history of the United States.
Nevis, a small and idyllic island in the Caribbean, is part of the twin-island nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Known for its pristine beaches and lush landscapes, Nevis holds a significant place in history as the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton. Born in 1755, Hamilton spent his early years on the island before venturing to the American colonies, where he became a key figure in the founding of the United States.
Alexander Hamilton's upbringing on Nevis shaped his trajectory toward greatness. Despite facing adversity and the challenges of a turbulent childhood, he exhibited remarkable intellect. Hamilton's journey took a pivotal turn when he moved to the American colonies, where he played a crucial role in the American Revolution and later became a key architect of the U.S. Constitution. As the first Secretary of the Treasury, Hamilton's economic policies helped establish the economic foundation of the newly formed nation. Nevis proudly celebrates its connection to Alexander Hamilton, acknowledging the island's role in shaping the life of one of America's founding fathers.
