We ran through massive sand dunes, occasionally visiting remote Saharan communities that were memorable and thought shifting. Our run became more about learning from the people of the Sahara than an extreme feat of endurance. When re-supplying through smaller desert communities in Niger, we learned how these incredible people have not only adapted, but thrived in such a hostile environment. Agricultural geniuses, I had some of the best tomatoes ever with couscous and roasted camel. An awesome meal, but the company made it even more memorable.

Completing the Running the Sahara expedition permanently stamped in my brain that we are all capable of  extraordinary in our lives. By far, travel is our greatest teacher. Experiencing the world we live in, reaching out to seemingly impossible places, and connecting with people from thousands of kilometres away provides us with so many answers to questions that cannot even be asked or comprehended until the journey is over.

Since 2007, I have completed expeditions all over the world, including a 33-day unsupported trek from the Hercules Inlet, Antartica, to the South Pole. I also dragged all of my food and supplies across Lake Baikal in Siberia – an outstanding frozen landscape in a remote part of the planet. That took 13 days. Awesome vistas, but for a food lover, the diet of dehydrated meals grew frustrating. I also ran the 1,200 km-length of the Atacama Desert in the summertime. Chile is a place to visit! Its famous wine destinations, like the La Serena, made post-expedition drinks incredible. The coastal scenery was mind-blowing, and the people friendly.

For me, the most rewarding projects are the ones organized through an organization I founded called impossible2Possible. The goal is to inspire, educate and empower youth through adventure-based education programs. Youth Ambassadors are selected – at no cost to them or their families – to join me on an expedition to a remote part of the world. There, they sometimes run up to a marathon per day, while learning from local cultures about a specific topic. These are then beamed live into classrooms via video-conferencing. They bring their expedition into classrooms, and classrooms onto their expeditions. Questions are asked from students, and the Youth Ambassadors answer live. They reach past any physical or mental limit they think they might have, and share the lessons they’ve learned to others. In the Amazon, the Youth Ambassadors took lessons on biodiversity from the indigenous peoples of the Amazon. There have also been projects to Bolivia, the Arctic, the Sahara and India – all told through live websites that accompany each project.

My hope is that through these experiences, young people everywhere will become engaged and inspired to see their world, to learn about it and preserve it. I hold a belief that in each of us is an adventurer, just waiting to discover what is over the next mountain or sea.

Ray Zahab Guest Travel Editor
Ray Zahab is motivated by challenge, distance and discovery. In 2007, he ran 7,500 kilometres across the Sahara Desert in 111 days to raise awareness for the water crisis in Africa. In 2008, Zahab founded impossible2Possible (i2P), an adventure-based organization that allows thousands of students from around the globe to experience the world like never before. www.rayzahab.com

Rows of white birch trees line the periphery of Rue Hovey, lending significance to the five-star property’s preceding name: The Birches. That’s what Henry Atkinson decided to call the grounds when the U.S. businessman acquired it at the turn of the century. His vision of building a private estate summer home modelled after President George Washington’s house at Mount Vernon in Virginia is still alive today with its wraparound verandas and snow-white siding. When The Birches was sold in 1950 to a hotelier named Robert F. Brown, the property was transformed into a country inn. The Stafford family soon took over, and has been welcoming guests to Manoir Hovey for over three decades.

Situated on 1,700 feet of lush English gardens and the secluded shore of Lake Massawippi, the resort inn’s commanding views and French country interiors gush with its hundred-year biography at every turn. Before being given a tour of the 42-suite property by a congenial young man referred to as JD, we’re greeted by the maître d’hôtel, Franck Trutet, whose international experience includes acting as restaurant manager for renowned chef Gordon Ramsay. After taking in Manoir Hovey’s outdoor tennis court and swimming pools, traditional library, award-winning Le Hatley Restaurant and the Tap Room enriched by wood beams and a 10,000-brick fireplace, we reach a two-acre hilltop where a completely isolated Heron suite with panoramic views is perched. What instantly impresses after pushing past the doors is the haute contemporary design and large-scale windows that flood the cottage-like space with natural light. Other suite highlights include a Muskoka room with Jacuzzi steam showers, bleached hardwood flooring and a crackling wood fireplace in the spacious bedroom; a flat-screen TV and stunning lake views.

Later that evening a lightly lit winding stairway takes us down the bluff to Manoir Hovey’s award-winning restaurant. The sommelier’s impressive knowledge of wine is topped off by his sense of humour. “It’s full-bodied, yet refined, just like me,” quips Yanick Lallier, while pouring a bright red complement to executive chef Roland Ménard’s filet mignon, roasted vegetables, risotto and soubise sauce. “I think that my plates represent the calm you can find here, because sometimes I’m taking a walk outside and I just look to the lake and my mind feels relaxed and it gives me ideas,” says Ménard, who’s received several rewards in his 30-year tenure at the inn, including top prize for best chef in Quebec at the Gold Medal Plates competition. When it comes to dishing on the Manoir Hovey experience, Ménard does it just as well. “I think people who come here are going to be very surprised. They will find something they don’t see anywhere else.”

As nightfall casts a scintillating spell over Lake Massawippi, there’s a sense that the stars are within reach. This old-world oasis in Quebec is proof that you don’t have to travel far to feel like you’re a million miles away.

www.manoirhovey.com

DV: What makes your hotel unique?
FBP: How many items can I mention? I’ll try to stick to four: history, location, family heritage, and a full team whose passion makes the customer experience unforgettable.

DV: Which aspect of the hotel do you love the most?
FBP: Because of the fact that the Bauer has been growing over the last 150 years, adding and accumulating different buildings, walking through the premises makes you live and recall history of the past in the present.

DV: If you had to pack only three things, what would they be?
FBP: Pair of jeans, white shirt and high heels … and a toothbrush, too.

DV: What is one of your fondest childhood memories?
FBP: When my grandfather smiled at me and was pleased by my accomplishments.

DV: Define happiness.
FBP: Happiness is not a state that I specifically look for. I find myself happy whenever I realize that people around me feel good because of my care.

DV: If you could change one thing about the hospitality industry, what would it be?
FBP: Standardization. International chains might help travellers know what they can expect, but they might as well take away the value of identity and the pleasure of discovering local style, culture and beauty.

DV: Giving back to society is important because …
FBP: We are passing through life trying to make the best of it, to share and build links to the next generation. As Mother Teresa said: The best way to bypass your anxieties is to devote yourself to others’ needs.

DV: Complete the sentence: My idea of living la dolce vita is …
FBP: Endless summer sunsets by the sea with caipirinha, music and friends.

Porto, known as Oporto in English, is Portugal’s second largest city and  definitely one of Europe’ best-kept secrets. Founded by the Romans at the mouth of the river Douro, it’s a city ripe with old-world charm and respectful of its rich seafaring past.

Port Wine, ultimately the reason why I was there – to participate in the autumn grape harvest – also plays a significant part in Portugal’s global reputation. Names of Port companies spelled out, Hollywood-like, in huge white letters atop the roofs of port lodges along the Douro, symbolize this city’s identity.

A slow, winding train journey up the ‘river of gold’ to winemaking country, touring many of the Quintas and in every instance being welcomed as an extended family member further add to my belief that the bucolic charm of Portugal is the reason for its quiet success. Long live the rustic, easy lifestyle and hope that it remains as so for as long as it can.

Roasted chicken and chips served on a metal plate, eaten standing up at the bar surrounded by hungry truck drivers and city labourers and washed down with unlabelled house red wine stands out as the most memorable experience while there. To this day, that simple lunch continually ranks as one of the best meals I’ve ever eaten.

Only upon beginning the trek back home, when boarding the plane and reflecting back on the past 10 days does the realization that the people I met, the experiences I had, and the quality of life one leads in Portugal made my time there seem much more like a holiday than a business trip.

Brauch’s Bests:

Hotel
Ipanema Park Hotel, Rua de Serralves, 124, Porto

Port House
Taylor Fladgate & Yeatman, Rua do Choupelo, 250, Villa Nova de Gaia

Quinta
Vargellas Estate (Taylor Fladgate)

Resto
Dom Tonho Restaurant , Cais da Ribeira, 13
22 200 4307
Cais de Gaia (Avenida Diogo Leite)

www.thirstytraveler.tv

Guest Travel Editor, Kevin Brauch
In his former years as a bartender, Kevin Brauch spent days and nights in Toronto’s busiest restaurants and bars making a name for himself. Today, he’s better known for having one of the best jobs imaginable: travelling the planet drinking the world’s finest spirits and wines while indulging in delectable international cuisine as host of The Thirsty Traveler, a series that airs in over 75 countries. The often-nominated Gemini award-winning presenter also hosts MegaWorld, CheF*OFF! and Iron Chef America.

Alila Villas, Uluwatu, Bali
The water may crash against the shore of Bali’s Bukit peninsula, but you don’t need to worry about getting drenched. You are safely perched high above the sea in your private cabana, overlooking the Indian Ocean at the Alila Villas Uluwatu. Designed by award-winning Singapore architectural firm WOHA, this stunning destination infuses contemporary luxuries with Bali’s rich culture. The final product is a wonder rarely seen in traditional retreats, gracefully swinging over a natural plateau. Each of the 84 villas is built with an open concept, and features a private pool and cabana. The openness allows the ocean breeze to dance throughout, and seamlessly entwines the interior with the outdoors.
www.alilahotels.com/uluwatu

The Opposite House, Beijing, China
In the heart of Beijing’s Sanlitun Village, an emerald palace prosperously stands, ready to astound all those who grace its lobby. Contrasting old-world ideals with novel designs, The Opposite House’s collection of 98 contemporary studio-suites breathe freely with a spacious, upscale loft design. Natural light floods every corner, as warm, welcoming wooden flooring sprawls under foot. These Zen-like rooms are a soothing divergence to the darker, bolder, more eclectic styling of The Opposite House’s public amenities, such as the sci-fi seeming pool and workout room, the inventive atmosphere of Bei restaurant, the funky design of the late-night bar and club Punk; and the esteemed sculpture collection of
The Art House.
www.theoppositehouse.com

Hotel Sezz, Saint Tropez, France
A pristine French Riviera haven that’s filled with the private yachts of millionaires, models and movie stars, Saint Tropez easily stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the world’s most luxurious locales. So what better place to strut side-by-side with the opulent elite than Hotel Sezz? A member of Design Hotels, Hotel Sezz’s 35 rooms are more like private residences, while its two spectacular villas glisten with charm and privacy through a personal pool and garden. Sharp, simple designs present a refined modern esthetic, which focuses on utilizing light and allowing the salty breeze to effortlessly waft through the nearly three acres of property. Lush gardens of flowers and trees juxtapose these straightforward structures, adding balance to the Mediterranean mood.
www.hotelsezz-sainttropez.com

Torre Di Moravola, Moravola, Italy
As you march up a winding stairwell, surrounded by medieval stone and architecture, it may become clear you’re climbing through history, but not so obvious that you’re entering a bastion of blissful serenity. For while this 10th century watchtower was once a symbol of keen military strategy, today it is the Torre Di Moravola – a tranquil sanctuary that melds ancient fortification tactics with the luxuries of modern living. Overlooking the Carpini valley and riding the ridgeling between the two feudal towns of Montone and Gubbio, this fortress of leisure pampers guests with a 25-metre heated pool, seven seductively elegant tower suites, open massage pavilions, and alfresco dining with fare cultivated on the surrounding grounds.
www.moravola.com

Playa Vik Jose, Ignacio, Uruguay
On the southeastern coast of South America resides a little country that might not be your first thought for a lavish holiday. Outside of a temperate climate and great surfing, Uruguay is home to the Playa Vik Jose Ignacio – an architecturally captivating beachfront retreat that is as much art as it is abode. A central, sculptural structure of arched titanium and glass is wrapped by six individual flower-crowned casas. These inspiring edifices scream originality, as each room is furnished with modern comforts and lined with local Uruguayan and international art. Blending nature and architecture, the Playa Vik Jose Ignacio represents harmony between the natural and the manufactured with you peacefully unwinding in the middle.
www.playavik.com

The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 225 kilometres south of Rome. Here, the amazing Amalfi Coast Drive was originally built by Romans and is a long-standing declaration to their engineering and road-building conquests. The Amalfi Coast Drive is a journey between Rome and paradise, carved into rugged cliffs plunging dramatically into the Tyrrhenian Sea. It’s one of the most spectacular drives in the world, with gorgeous combinations of natural beauty, coastal seascapes and old-world villages perched on steep cliffs like Roman eagles scouting the Mediterranean for Saracen invaders.

I see weathered fishermen paddling rowboats surrounded by the expansive Tyrrhenian Sea, bringing fish to local restaurants where nobody’s in a rush.  There’s no need for reservation of any type and the attitude is “chi va piano, va sano e va lontano,” meaning, “who goes slow, goes healthy and goes far.” Life goes slowly and surely here. That’s why lunch in southern Italy is about three hours long and the only “golden arches” are the ones on well-tanned feet sporting Positanese sandals. On the Costiera Amalfitana, you find fresh Mediterranean cuisine cooked just like grandma’s.

The Amalfitani people honour their cultural foundation and the past is not paved over – they cherish it as they cherish their honoured elders. I see a happier and healthier life in this village environment, where café life, rather than coffee breaks, is a lifestyle and going to the laundromat means opening a window and hanging laundry out to dry in the sun. On the Amalfi Coast, traditional maritime life joins with contemporary European living. The elders and the young are together: plumbers are artists, and fishermen are philosophers. The Amalfi Coastal communities coexist to evolve a healthy village lifestyle with people of all ages taking the journey of life together. There’s ease – people know their neighbours, and instead of shopping at supermarkets, they go to family stores selling specialities of fresh fish, cheese, pasta, ceramics. Warm personal service at these traditional stores is characteristic of the Costiera Amalfitana village lifestyle. At night, I walk in narrow tunnels curving under cliffhanging buildings stacked like pancakes, while unseen villagers cast shadows on wizened walls. Religious paintings and altars in these passageways hold at bay ancient spirits on an extended Roman holiday. It’s easy to imagine it being in movies because in the 1960s, the Costiera Amalfitana was a famous destination for Rome’s La Dolce Vita film scene. After all, this is the “Costa Diva – Le Vie del Cinema” (Diva Coast – The Way of Cinema), where films such as L’Amore: Il Miracolo starring Anna Magnani and directed by Roberto Rossellini were shot.

Coming out of the covered passageway, I enter Amalfi’s Piazza del Duomo and conversations resound in the intimate piazza, which buzzes with well-dressed Italians in their bella figura. The women’s olive skin is sweetly embraced by flowing hair and natural Mediterranean beauty. The Dolce Vita, or sweet life, is the essence of daily life here, where beauty and passion rule at all levels in art, architecture, cuisine, people, lifestyle and fashion.

A stylish young Italian couple on a vintage Vespa lean into curves on the Amalfi Coast Drive at night – perhaps to dine in the village of Positano. Along with Positano’s beautiful beach, this commune is known for its fashion. In the ’50s and early ’60s, the Positanesi began making Moda Positano (Positano Fashion), clothing made with colourful and interesting patterned cloth, linen and macramé. The antique Amalfi Coast doesn’t mean Amalfitani style is aged– it finds balance with New World elegance. Like the young couple in the breeze who are full of unconstrained freedom and passion for each other while riding their vintage Vespa that, like a wasp – the classic motorbike it’s named after – still has lots of great zip and sting. It’s blazing in the Amalfi Coast and it’s time for a limoncello at La Sponda in Hotel Le Sirenuse – named after an archipelago of islands off Positano’s coast, where tales say mythological sirens with sultry voices and mesmerizing music allured ships onto the rocks. I hope to see some of those mythical sirens while sipping my lemon liqueur. Not on the rocks, please: this is la dolce vita.

www.robertleon.com

Guest Travel Editor, Robert Leon
For more than three decades, documentary photographer Robert Leon has been telling stories through his enhanced lens. The Montreal-born adventurist was a fashion and advertising photographer in Milan, Italy when his passion turned to the environment. www.robertleon.com

Villa Sant’Andrea
Located in the gorgeous seaside town of Taormina, Sicily, Villa Sant’Andrea is a true classic in every sense of the word. Built in 1830 on the breathtaking Bay of Mazzarò, this timeless hotel boasts luxurious suites overlooking pristine water and a private beach. Take a boat tour to the enchanting Grotta Azzurra cave or enjoy a glass of wine under the starlight at the Al Fresco Bar.
www.hotelvillasantandrea.com

Hotel AKA
One block from New York’s historic Central Park resides the magnificent Hotel AKA. With contemporary yet comfortable furnishings, Hotel AKA’s one and two-bedroom accommodations come fully furnished with kitchens in most suites and bathrooms with masterfully laid mosaic stone flooring. Enjoy New York’s legendary 5th Avenue shopping, take a stroll through the Guggenheim or simply enjoy the beauty of Central Park – all within steps of Hotel AKA. www.hotelaka.co

Montage Beverly Hills
In the heart of Beverly Hills, California, the Montage Beverly Hills houses 201 guestrooms and 55 suites all paying homage to the romantic Hollywood-of-old. Lounge by the elegant rooftop pool or indulge at the Spa Montage with herbal steam room, sauna and a multitude of relaxing therapies and treatments. For dinner, savour the mouth-watering Italian cuisine of celebrity chef Scott Conant at Scarpetta Beverly Hills. www.montagebeverlyhills.com

Marina Inn at Grande Dunes
Bask in the glory of Myrtle Beach’s legendary seaboard at Marina Inn at Grande Dunes. The perfect family getaway, Marina Inn offers a range of amenities to satisfy those young and old: two award-winning golf courses, in-room spa services, private beach and an abundance of activities for children. Each room overlooks either the water or marina for a majestic ocean view. www.marinainnatgrandedunes.com

Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk
Right off the unspoiled white sand beaches of Waikiki, Hawaii, the spectacular Trump International Hotel promises luxury of the highest calibre. On the island of Oahu, this tropical getaway sits amidst world-class restaurants, exciting entertainment and fashionable boutiques. Located just off of Oahu’s most-recognized stretch of sand, this pillar of luxury is waiting for you. www.trumpwaikikihotel.com

Hôtel de la Cité
Step out of your time machine and walk as a king or queen through the medieval marvel that is Carcassonne at the Hôtel de la Cité. This French fortification besieges the senses with spectacular ancient architecture and a powerfully rich history. As you survey your kingdom from one of the 47 guestrooms and 14 suites, you will grasp the true understanding of royal treatment. www.hoteldelacite.com

Langdon Hall Country House Hotel & Spa
Brimming with 19th century charm, Langdon Hall Country House in Cambridge, Ont. is the archetype for antiquated Ontario estates. One of the only 15 prestigious Relais & Châteaux hotels in Canada, Langdon Hall’s 52 classic guest suites are an enchanting display of old-world elegance, while five-diamond dining delights the palate. Enjoy stimulating spa services, formal wine tasting or the 12 kilometres of magical forest trails. www.langdonhall.ca

The Chedi, Oman
This five-star jewel, located in Muscat, Oman is pleasantly placed on the immaculate Boushar Beachfront. With access to a private beach, large clear pools with an impressive view of the Arabian Sea from the cabanas and tennis courts, fun and leisure are both at your fingertips. With the option of cosying up in the Serai Room, the Chedi Deluxe Room, the Chedi Deluxe Club Room or one of the Chedi Club Suites, you will be treated to a luxurious bed and surrounded by trendy, striking décor. www.destoman.com/chedi.htm

Hotel De Paris, Monaco
Set your bags down and prepare for the royal treatment as you enter this legendary palace. The Hotel De Paris in Monaco is more than just a place to sleep while you’re in town. It boasts 182 rooms, 74 suites and junior suites. The Presidential Suite is decorated with marvelous furniture and offers astounding views. en.hoteldeparismontecarlo.com

Evian Royal Resort, France
Stay in a dazzling realm of fine entertainment and relaxation. Sprawling across 47 acres, the Evian Royal Resort is located in the heart of France’s Evian-les-Bains. Its renowed, grand Edwardian-style hotel, with a view of Lake Geneva and the Alps, is equipped with five restaurants and chic lounges for fun outings and vast terraces, as well as the Spa Evian Source and the Form and Relaxation Centre to kiss your stresses goodbye. en.evianroyal.com

Hotel Le St-James, Montreal
At a glance, you’ll never have guessed that this fine hotel just a few blocks from the Notre-Dame Basilica was once a 19th-century bank building. Flooding with the feel of a classy and sophisticated chateâu, you’ll be whisked away into an oasis of tranquility and harmony. A must-see here is the underground spa that was once one side of the former bank vault. www.hotellestjames.com

Le Macassar, France
Ranked as one of the top 10 inns and B&Bs in Europe in the 2008 Trip Advisor Traveller’s Choice Awards, Le Macassar is definitely a place where memories will be made. Take advantage of this unique fusion of comfort and impeccable service that a small hotel would provide, combined with the warmth and discretion of a private home. www.lemacassar.com

Hotel de Charme, France
Whether you have chosen this destination for a honeymoon or just for an exciting getaway from your everyday life, this hotel has a charming presence and experience awaiting you. Tucked away in an enchanting area among walnut trees and roses in Paris, you’ll experience a quiet, countryside ambience accented by modern, luxurious amenities. www.guidesdecharme.com

Hotel Metropole, Monte Carlo
Towering high in the sky on the French Riviera, this luxury stay location looks more like a gorgeous home than a hotel. Each of its beautifully lit rooms emit rays of modernity and comfort, while spa treatments, including hot stone massages and gourmet dining options, are truly a breath of extravagance.
www.metropole.com/en

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai
Submerge yourself deep into this eloquent and serene sanctuary, surrounded by breathtaking sand dunes, the desert and Dubai’s rich heritage and history. With a selection of 42 lavish individual suites on this resort, which is encompassed by an abundance of stunning handcrafted artwork and an isolated, invigorating, signature Timeless Spa, you’ll be basking in paradise. www.emirateshotelsresorts.com/al-maha/en

With Pierres Caraïbes, you can borrow luxuries fit for French kings: one, two or even five bedroom villas on the oceanfront; pools cascading into your view of the ocean; architecture uniquely sprawled over acres of lush beachfront lands; cathedral interiors tastefully decorated and furnished; sublime and spectacular vistas ready for print on postcards.

There’s no other way to see the beauty of the world’s only island to be split between two nations – St. Martin being the French side and St. Maarten the Dutch. With over 30 spectacular beaches, this tinyand friendly Caribbean island can become your personal playground when Pierres Caraïbes introduces you its perfection. www.pierrescaraibes.com

Before Gordon “Butch” Stewart created his billion-dollar empire of luxury resorts, the Jamaican native had a vision to provide patrons with an all-inclusive experience that would outshine all others. Almost three decades later, and the thriving founder and chairman of Sandals Resorts has materialized his dreams far beyond conception.

His most recent feat is Sandals Emerald Bay in Great Exuma, Bahamas – the ultimate testament to everything that the sweet life stands for. “We are continually challenging ourselves to raise the bar on the luxury included experience and acquiring this property allowed us to do just that,” says Stewart, credited for single handedly revolutionizing the resort industry.

Not many people in the travel industry would challenge the notion that Sandals Resorts retains a solid reputation for providing the ultimate all-inclusive experience. It’s not surprising then, that my expectations prior to visiting their latest venture were sky-high – especially considering the colossal curiosity it was stirring. But when my personal butler greeted me with a glass of champagne and guided me past lush landscape and two spectacular pools to my spacious oceanfront suite, I quickly conceptualized that my stay was going to be a par above.

After receiving a multi-million dollar facelift, this former Four Seasons estate has become the talk of the travel trade. Officially sliding open its doors in February of this year, Sandals Emerald Bay boasts 183 all-butler oceanfront rooms and suites, an exclusive 29,000 sq. ft. spa, a first-class marina, a strikingly scenic championship Greg Norman-designed golf course, and five dining options that are particularly tailored to those with discriminating palates. “We took an already outstanding resort set on a breathtakingly beautiful stretch of beach and added even more amenities and services,” says Stewart.

Resting on a crescent shaped strip of powdery sand, this inimitable resort offers every expected and unexpected amenity under the brilliant Bahamian sun. In an industry where culinary considerations are sometimes overlooked, Sandals Emerald Bay surpasses. Each unlimited gourmet restaurant offers authentic cuisine and intimate ambiance; like Gordon’s Pizzeria’s palatable wood-fired pizza, Il Cielo’s tasty Tuscan dishes and Barefoot by the Sea’s succulent seafood. In the few short months since its inception, Sandals’ inaugural all-butler resort has hosted a celebrity golf tournament and received the Six Star Diamond Award from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences. Guests can spend the day at Red Lane® Concept Spa or book an excursion with the Island Routes Caribbean Adventure Tours desk located in the main foyer. For the unforgettable opportunity to stride across a seemingly endless snow-white sandbar, play with pigs that swim, snorkel in the same cave as James Bond and socialize with sharks, I’d highly advocate the 007 Thunderball Tour.

After a day of exhilarating explorations, meeting Stewart for dinner at the resort’s classical English pub was a privilege. His white linen shirt and carefree candor was atypical from any preconceived notions I had of a capitalist of his calibre. As he eagerly exchanged words and let out laughs with the resort’s guests and staff, it became as lucid as Great Exuma’s crystal-clear waters that this charismatic man conquered the kingdom of tourism with a fiery passion for unparalleled hospitality.

“We strive to deliver the most relaxing, restful and pampering experience possible,” says the accomplished hotelier. Pamper, in this case, is an understatement; Sandals Emerald Bay will wholeheartedly spoil you. www.sandals.com

1.888.SANDALS
1.800.545.8283 (Canada)