Welcome to the Trending Travel Newsletter
What's new and trending in travel - from Sharael Kolberg, a professional travel writer
As a full-time travel writer, I'm always trying to keep up with the latest and greatest things going on in the travel industry – from new hotel openings and travel apps to discounts on hotels and cruises or handy travel hacks. Since I have been lucky enough to have seen many amazing places in the world, I will also share my favorite destinations, suggest packing lists, post hotel reviews, and give insight on resources to make your trips the best they can be. I hope you find my newsletter useful and inspiring!
Maui No Ka Oi
Firstly, I want to send my thoughts and prayers to those in Lahaina, Maui. I called Lahaina home for nearly six years in my late teens/early twenties and have so many fond memories of the people, the history, the community. I am devastated that it is all gone and my heart aches for those who have lost everything. There are several ways to make a donation to help those affected.
Summer’s Not Over…Yet
The weather has been so foggy here on the coast of Southern California, but the sun is now shining, the ocean is warming up, there are concerts in the park and summer festivals, the town is buzzing with visitors, and locals are jetting off for summer vacations. I hope that where you are, you're staying cool and packing your bags for a summer adventure, because there are still a few weeks of summer left.
Hotel Spotlight:
Fairmont Empress, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
I recently returned from a press trip to Victoria to see the multi-million-dollar renovation of the Fairmont Empress hotel's Fairmont Gold experience with a 4,000-square-foot private lounge and addition of 22 new Fairmont Gold guest rooms. This elevated experience includes complimentary food and beverages throughout the day in the Gold Lounge, a dedicated concierge and private check in/check out.
The Fairmont Empress hotel, known as the Castle on the Coast, is perched gracefully on the enchanting shores of Victoria, Canada. This National Historic Site invites guests into a realm of unparalleled elegance, flawless service, and an unrivaled location. From the moment you step foot inside this iconic establishment, you are enveloped by a seamless fusion of regal allure and warm hospitality, setting the stage for an extraordinary experience. With its exquisite guest suites, delectable culinary offerings, captivating decor, rich historical legacy, and world-class amenities, the Fairmont Empress hotel is the perfect place for a luxurious getaway. Read my full review of this breathtaking hotel set in such a picturesque location.
Free Hotel & Cruise Perks
Since I’m always visiting new places, my friends ask for my advice on where to go, what hotel to book and what to do in various destinations. So…I decided to become a Travel Advisor – so that I can book hotels and cruises for my friends (that’s you!) and get them free travel perks, such room upgrades, resort credits, free breakfast and more – and I get to share my knowledge of the places I’ve been, so that you don’t have to do the research. The best part is, you pay nothing extra for the perks! The hotels and cruise lines pay me a small commission based on your booking.
Travel Tips & Hacks:
Reusable Water Bottle
One thing I always bring with me when I travel is a reusable water bottle. Not only will it save you money (you won’t have to buy bottled water), but it is also a way to be respectful of the place that you’re traveling to. By not purchasing plastic water bottles in the destination you’re vacationing in, you’re helping to prevent those water bottles from ending up as litter in that location. We always want to take care of the place we visit. Another good tip is that after you get through security at the airport (with your empty water bottle), you can fill it up at a water station before you get on the plane. Most airports have water fountains and stations near the entrance to the restrooms. Save money and the planet by packing a reusable water bottle whenever you travel. If you order a Hydro Flask online, you can have it customized with text or graphics. And when it starts to get worn out (which might take years), you can trade it in and get a $5 coupon towards a new one, as part of their sustainability efforts.
Gear Guide:
Steamline Luggage
Shopping for new luggage? Or, just want to up your luggage game for something a bit more stylish? I’ve got just the thing. Steamline Luggage’s The Correspondent or The Entrepreneur lines seamlessly blends style and functionality. In the ever-evolving world of travel, luggage has transformed from being mere containers for our belongings to functional accessories that define our travel experiences. Steamline luggage, a renowned name in the industry, has once again set a new benchmark with The Correspondent line and The Entrepreneur line, which caters to the needs of the modern traveler while making a bold fashion statement. This line is available eight sizes – perfect for those who want a matching set. Read full review.
Read, Watch, Listen, App:
BOOK: The Great Global Bucket List by Robin Esrock:
This book is written by my friend and fellow travel writer, Robin Esrock. It is described as “a trail-blazing book rooted in things to do before you die, The Great Global Bucket List is packed with experiences that make life worth living.”
MOVIE: The Untourist
This must-watch film explores the ramifications of over tourism and explores how we can be responsible tourists.
PODCAST: Adventures in Luxury Travel with Mimi Lichtenstein
I love listening to the descriptions about resorts that combine luxury and travel. It’s so inspiring.
APP: Hopper
Save money on travel with the Hopper app.
Just for Fun:
Going to Tuscany or France? You might want to invest in a Rimowa Twelve Bottle Suitcase to bring your wine or champagne home with you! $9,900.
