Month: August 2023

Europe, Luxury Journeys

Harry’s Bars: The Story of Europe’s Two Most Glamorous Watering Holes

August 18, 2023 by kjbirtles No Comments

There are several bars across the world that carry the Harry’s Bar name, but only two of them are true originals – Harry’s Bar in Venice and Harry’s New York Bar in Paris. While the two bars were both opened in the early 20th century, created several iconic cocktails, and have been frequented by some of the 20th century’s biggest icons, that’s where their similarities end. The two bars are actually not connected in any way, besides sharing a name – and the love of Ernest Hemingway.

We delve into the different stories of the original Harry’s Bars, and how they came to be two of Europe’s most glamorous watering holes.

Photo credit: @harrysbar_theoriginal

Photo credit: @cipriani

Harry’s New York Bar – Paris, France

Disregard the misleading name – Harry’s New York Bar is a true Parisian institution. Nestled in the heart of Paris, not far from the iconic Opéra Garnier, Harry’s New York Bar stands as a monument to history, culture, and the fine art of mixology.

Founded in 1911 by American jockey Tod Sloan, the bar was originally called “The New York Bar.” Sloan had the interior shipped over from a bar in New York, giving it an authentic American feel right in the heart of Paris. Harry MacElhone, a young barman, took over in 1923 and added his first name to the title. The legendary “Harry’s New York Bar” was born, and it’s still owned and run by the MacElhone family.

Over the years, it became the glamorous watering hole of choice for expatriates, tourists, and locals who appreciated the taste of classic cocktails and the allure of American jazz. Today, visiting this century-old establishment is like stepping back in time. The ambient lighting, original wooden panels, over 400 classic drinks, and the familiar tinkling of cocktail glasses transport you to an era when Hemingway, Fitzgerald, and Porter were regular patrons.

Visit Harry’s New York Bar in Paris on: Ultimate Southern France

Photo credit: @harrysbar_theoriginal

A cocktail atelier

Harry’s New York Bar was the birthplace of several iconic drinks. The most famous among them is the Bloody Mary, said to have been concocted in the 1920s by Fernand Petiot, a bartender at Harry’s. Their impressive cocktail repertoire also includes the White Lady, the French 75 and the Side Car, legacies of the skill and creativity of the bartenders who’ve graced Harry’s counters.

Photo credit: @harrysbar_theoriginal

Cultural epicenter

This Parisian institution was a jazz oasis and something of a second home for the Lost Generation. Throughout the roaring ‘20s, the bar played host to a stream of literary and artistic figures, including Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein, and Humphrey Bogart.

With a crowd like that, it’s little wonder Harry’s New York Bar has been immortalized in popular culture. Hemingway mentioned the bar in “A Moveable Feast” and “The Sun Also Rises.” The famous song “I Love Paris” by Cole Porter was supposedly penned in the downstairs piano bar.

Photo credit: @harrysbar_theoriginal

Harry’s Bar – Venice, Italy

Ten years later and 690 miles away, another institution was born under the same name. Located just a few steps away from Piazza San Marco in the heart of Venice, stands the historic establishment, Harry’s Bar. Founded in 1931 by Giuseppe Cipriani, Harry’s Bar isn’t just a watering hole; it’s a legend of 20th-century history, literature and art, and Venetian culinary traditions.

The story of Harry’s Bar in Venice began with a chance encounter. A young Giuseppe Cipriani, then a bartender at Venice’s Hotel Europa, extended a loan to a stranded American named Harry Pickering. When Pickering returned a few years later to repay Cipriani with interest, the two decided to invest in a small bar – and Harry’s Bar was born.

Discover Harry’s Bar in Venice on: Ultimate Italy

Photo credit: @cipriani

Birthplace of the Bellini

While many come to Harry’s Bar for its history, others come for a taste of its legendary Bellini. A mix of Prosecco and peach purée, this refreshing cocktail was invented by Giuseppe Cipriani himself in the 1940s. Inspired by a 15th-century Venetian painting by Giovanni Bellini, the drink’s pink glow reminded Cipriani of the artist’s palette. The Bellini has since become an iconic cocktail, enjoyed worldwide but never quite as special as when sipped in its birthplace.

Photo credit: @cipriani

Cultural icon

Since its inception, Harry’s Bar attracted a roster of artists, writers, and celebrities. The likes of Ernest Hemingway, Katherine Hepburn, Charlie Chaplin, Truman Capote, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Orson Welles were regular patrons. Hemingway, in particular, considered it his favorite watering hole, often describing its intimate atmosphere in his works. The bar’s drawcard wasn’t just the alcohol or the delicious meals, but the sense of camaraderie and creativity. Conversations sparked here would often find their way into novels, films, and art.

Despite its celebrity visitors and renowned cocktails, the beauty of Harry’s Bar today lies in its simplicity. With crisp linen tablecloths and wooden chairs, the original decor allows its rich history to shine. The food remains a winner too, with sumptuous risottos and fresh seafood paying tribute to the city’s culinary scene.

In 2001, the Italian Ministry for Cultural Affairs declared Harry’s Bar a national landmark. While the designation is a nod to its historical significance, the true testament is the endless crowd of visitors who flock to its doors year after year.

Photo credit: @cipriani

The Legacy of Harry’s Bars

While the two bars had completely different origins, they shared many of the same values (and patrons!) arising from the Lost Generation of the early 20th century; music, art, literature, and good company and stories shared over excellent food and drinks.

These bars aren’t just places to grab a cocktail. They’re historic institutions that inspired literary and artistic giants and global gastronomic traditions. They’re a portal to a bygone era, where the walls tell tales of Jazz Age soirees, literary debates and the art of a well-made drink.

As both Paris and Venice continue to involve, Harry’s Bars remain true to their roots, reminding us of the timeless glamor of a great bar. The next time you’re in Paris or Venice, be sure to swing by Harry’s, order a classic cocktail, and soak up a century’s worth of stories.

Banner photo credit: @harrysbar_theoriginal

Reading time: 6 min

Europe, Luxury Journeys

Pearls of the Adriatic: Step Aboard Europe’s Most Glamorous Cruise

August 16, 2023 by kjbirtles No Comments

Dubrovnik Croatia Europe's most glamorous cruise

Set sail into the awe-inspiring landscapes of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast with this luxury European cruise as part of our Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast luxury tour. You’ll kick back on the lavish Rhapsody yacht as you float from stunning islands to ancient towns, with culinary delights, glamorous nightlife, and unique local experiences in between. Dive into the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic, dine in world-class restaurants at sunset, and soak in the hot tub on deck… This is Europe’s most glamorous cruise.

Experience it: Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast

Bol Croatia

Your cruise ship

You’ll cruise the Adriatic for a week aboard the new MV Rhapsody Deluxe Superior yacht-like cruiser. Built to the highest specifications with modern amenities such as air-conditioned cabins, the Rhapsody is a truly befitting vessel for what is Europe’s most glamorous cruise. Whether you want to relax in your cosy private cabin, or relax on the large sundeck in the hot tub or chaise loungers, you’ll feel right at home on the Rhapsody.

Split Croatia

Day 1: Split to Primošten

The cruise element of this tour begins in the ancient city of Split. Set on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea, Split is renowned as the gateway to the stunning Dalmatian Islands, which you’ll visit on your cruise. But Split is more than just an entry point. It’s also famed for its beautiful beaches and ancient history dating all the way back to the 2nd and 3rd century BC.

Before boarding the cruise ship, you’ll join a Local Expert on a tour of Split. You’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, between the late 3rd and early 4th centuries AD by the Roman Emperor Diocletian. This grand, fortress-like palace was intended as a retirement residence for the emperor and today is one of the most important architectural ruins on the Adriatic Coast. You’ll then wander through the labyrinthine streets of Split’s Old Town, marvelling at the ancient Roman architecture. See the Golden Gate, St. Duje’s and the Temple of Jupiter before heading to the port.

After boarding the boat, we’ll cruise to the picture-perfect town of Primošten, enjoying a delicious dinner onboard and taking in the glorious sunset. It’s the most idyllic way to kickstart your week aboard Europe’s most glamorous cruise.

Primosten Croatia

Day 2: Primošten to Kornati National Park to Telašćica

Today we’ll sail through Kornati National Park’s spectacular maze of islands, cliffs, ruins and Roman villas. Kornati encompasses 89 islands across 85 square miles, making it the densest archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea. One of the park’s most striking features is its dramatic, towering cliffs, known locally as ‘crowns’. Some of these cliffs rise over 262 feet above the sea and drop down 295 feet below the surface. The islands have been inhabited since prehistoric times, and you’ll see many ruins, such as the Tureta Fort on the island of Kornat, that date back to the Byzantine era. Keep your eyes peeled for ancient Illyrian fortresses, Roman villas, and medieval settlements.

Kornati National Park Croatia

Beneath the surface of the water, the park is home to rich marine biodiversity, including coral reefs, colorful fish, and sponges, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. You’ll have time to take a dip in the crystal clear waters before we cruise to our next destination – the beautiful Telašćica Nature Park.

The natural wonders of Telašćica are some of the most breathtaking in the Adriatic, from the famous White Cliffs to the intriguing Salt Lake. We’ll cruise through Telašćica Bay flanked by the White Cliffs soaring 532 feet above the ocean, and meet an expert guide to learn about the formation of the Salt Lake following the last Ice Age. This fascinating lake is filled through underground cracks and limestone channels fed by the sea.

Telascica Croatia

Day 3: Telašćica to Mali Losinj

Waving goodbye to Telašćica, we’ll cruise to the island of Lošinj, disembarking to explore Mali Lošinj town’s harbor and historic quarter. You’ll enjoy a private, VIP tour of the Museum of Apoxyomenos, home to the perfectly preserved 2000-year-old bronze statue. The statue of Apoxyomenos, an ancient Greek athlete, was found in the sea near the island in 1999, and today has become a symbol of the island’s cultural heritage. Get to know the story of the statue, and take your time admiring this treasure and other fascinating artifacts in the museum, without the crowds.

You may also like to visit other renowned sites such as the Church of St. Martin, the oldest church on the island, and the Lošinj Aromatic Garden, where you can learn about the island’s healing herbs. Known as the Island of Vitality, Lošinj is known for its beautiful landscapes, crystal waters, over 2,600 hours of sunshine annually, and lush Mediterranean vegetation, with over 1,200 aromatic and healing herbs.

Mali Losinj Croatia

Day 4: Mali Losinj to Zadar

Today we head to Zadar, a vibrant city on the Dalmatian Coast, with a history dating back 3,000 years. You’ll dive into this ancient history with a Local Expert, visiting the remains of the 1st century Roman Forum, the largest on the eastern side of the Adriatic. You’ll also visit the 9th-century St. Donatus Basilica, a pre-Romanesque famed for its excellent acoustics, and stroll through the 16th-century Venetian city walls.

If you’re into contemporary attractions, be sure to visit the symphony of the Sea Organ. This architectural sound art object plays music when the sea waves interact with tubes located beneath large marble steps. You can also witness the Greeting to the Sun, a 72-foot diameter circle set into the pavement filled with 300 multilayered glass plates that collect the sun’s energy during the day and produce a stunning light show after sunset. Both of these installations were designed by local architect Nikola Bašić and have become iconic symbols of the city. Alfred Hitchcock famously said that Zadar had the most beautiful sunset in the world, so you don’t want to miss this.

Zadar Croatia

Day 5: Zadar to Skradin to Šibenik

After a leisurely morning, we’ll visit the acclaimed Bibich Winery in Skradin for a delicious tapas lunch paired with the finest Croatian wines. The Bibich vineyards are over 500 years old and are run by a family of vintners who have worked on this land for generations.

We’ll then sail on to the spectacular Krka National Park where you’ll marvel at the enchanting waterfalls. Walk along the shaded paths as the cascades flow all around you. Formed from the Krka and Čikola Rivers, the cascades flow over a series of terraces and travertine steps, ending in the mighty Skradinski Buk waterfall, plunging 148 feet. Despite the power of the waterfall, the pool below remains serene, and you can swim right up to the base of the falls.

Krka National Park Croatia

Next up, we’ll visit the historic city of Šibenik, one of the oldest native Croatian towns. We’ll take a walking tour with a Local Expert, visiting remarkable sites such as the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of St. James. Built over a period of more than 100 years in the 15th and 16th centuries, the cathedral is a testament to Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. Šibenik is also known for its four fortresses, each with its unique history, architecture, and panoramic views of the city and sea. As a city built on and with stone, the Old Town is another delight. Wander down the narrow, stone streets, alleyways, and archways and admire the beautiful stone houses.

Read more: How your travels with Luxury Gold help conserve nature for future generations

Hvar Croatia

Day 6: Šibenik to Hvar

Today we sail to the gorgeous island of Hvar. Known as the “sunniest spot in Europe”, Hvar receives more than 2,700 hours of sunshine a year, and it’s an essential stop on Europe’s most glamorous cruise. From sprawling lavender fields, vineyards and olive trees, to sandy beaches, secluded coves, and historic towns, there are endless treasures to explore in Hvar.

Hvar Croatia

Check out the 17th-century Hvar Theater, one of the oldest surviving theaters in Europe. Wander around St. Stephen’s Square, the largest piazza in Dalmatia. You can also visit the impressive Spanjola Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding islands. The UNESCO-listed town of Stari Grad, on the northern side, is one of the oldest towns in Europe.

With its reputation for summer luxury and vibrant bars and nightlife, Hvar also attracts an endless stream of celebrities. Prince Harry, Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Tom Cruise, Steven Spielberg, Sean Connery and many more have all graced the glitzy shores of Hvar.

Hvar Croatia

Day 7: Hvar to Bol to Split

This morning we’ll cruise to Zlatni Rat, also known as the Golden Horn. It’s one of the most famous beaches in Dalmatia and for good reason. This breathtaking beach has a unique horn-like shape that changes depending on the wind and tide. Snap some gorgeous photos of the turquoise water against the white sand and lush greenery. Then it’s back on deck to relax as we cruise back to Split. Here we disembark for our final three days exploring the wonders of Dubrovnik.

Bol Croatia

You can set sail on Europe’s most glamorous cruise on our Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast luxury tour. The cruise is just one week of this 2-week journey. You’ll experience other on-land highlights across Zagreb, Pula, Istria, Opatija and the Plitvice Lakes. Discover more through our luxury Croatia tours.

Reading time: 8 min

Unwind

Dive Into Luxury at These Incredible Hotel Pools

August 11, 2023 by kjbirtles No Comments

luxury hotel pool at Tambo del Inka Peru

From private plunge pools on the edge of wildlife reserves to infinity pools overlooking oceans and city skylines, join us as we dive into 12 of the most spectacular luxury hotel pools in the world.

Tambo del Inka, Sacred Valley, Peru

Photo credit: @hoteltambodelinkaon Instagram

You’ll be spoiled for choice at Tambo del Inka, with both heated indoor and outdoor pools, along with whirlpools, hydromassage pools, Vichy showers, and sub-aquatic beds as part of the world-class Kallpa Spa. The pools are stunning, with elegant wooden architecture and large floor-to-ceiling windows that allow natural light to flood the pool area. You can soak in the warm water while looking out over the beautiful views of the surrounding gardens, Andes Mountains and the Urubamba River Valley. Peaceful and luxurious, this is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Experience this on: Treasures of the Incas

Leela Palace, New Delhi, India

Photo credit: @theleela on Instagram

If you like your luxury hotel pools with a view, the Leela Palace in New Delhi has got you covered. Head to the rooftop and you’ll discover a breathtaking infinity pool overlooking the city. The pool is temperature-controlled and a great place to cool down after exploring New Delhi. After your dip, visit the sauna or the spa for some rejuvenating treatments.

Experience this on: Essence of India

The Langtham, Sydney, Australia

Photo credit: @langhamsydney on Instagram

This elegant Sydney hotel did not skimp on its pool. The 65-foot indoor heated pool is the crown jewel of the Day Spa by Chuan at The Langham. Head underground to discover the peaceful turquoise waters, with a unique star-dappled ceiling overhead. The twinkling, starry sky ceiling creates a magically soothing environment. Surrounded by stone columns and two gorgeous beach murals, this is a beautiful sanctuary to swim, lounge and rejuvenate.

Experience this on: Inspiring Australia

Quisisana Hotel, Isle of Capri, Italy

Photo credit: @quisisanacapri on Instagram

Set in Capri’s central plaza, Quisisana Hotel is surrounded by the sublime beaches and Mediterranean coastline of Capri. But its pools have their own allure. The large heated outdoor infinity-edge swimming pool comes lined in marble with whirlpool jets. You can relax in the soothing water with a cocktail overlooking the ocean, or soak in the magical whirlpool jet surrounded by lush greenery. The world-class spa also features a heated indoor pool, Turkish bath, and sauna, so take your pick of the water elements.

Experience this on: Ultimate Italy

Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski, Saint Moritz, Switzerland

pool at Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski Switzerland

Photo credit: @kempinskistmoritz on Instagram

Set in the heart of the Swiss Alps, the Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski dishes up one of the most spectacular luxury hotel pools in the world. The 50-foot indoor pool is surrounded by dramatic marble columns and large glass windows serving up stunning mountain views. The pool is heated to 82°F in summer 86°F winter so you can soothe tired muscles after a big day on the slopes. The pool is part of the luxurious Alpine Spa, which also has four different saunas, a steam bath, laconium, a sun terrace, a separate ladies’ spa and state-of-the-art spa treatments. You can also walk through the Kneipps stream or drink the iron-rich mineral water directly from the famous Mauritius Spring here.

Experience this on: Majestic Switzerland

Ashford Castle, County Mayo, Ireland

Photo credit: @ashfordcastle on Instagram

Set within the beautiful bronze conservatory and overlooking Lough Corrib, Ashford Castle’s relaxation pool is simply gorgeous. With seashell chandeliers and the ‘Tree of Life’ Irish Celtic mural stretching the length of the pool, this is a unique pool experience that connects you to your destination. Relax with the pool’s seated jets or indulge in the steam room and spa, recently named the only Forbes Five-Star spa in Ireland.

Experience this on: Ultimate Ireland

Lion Sands Tinga Lodge, Kruger National Park, South Africa

private plunge pool at Lion Sands Tinga Lodge

Photo credit: @lionsandsgamereserve on Instagram

The Lion Sands Tinga Lodge is the only private game reserve in both the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Kruger National Park, offering some of the most luxurious suites and unique pool experiences in the country. The lodge has a large infinity pool overlooking the Sabi River, where you can soak while watching for wildlife below. If you prefer a private pool experience, each lavish suite has its own private plunge pool with views of the river. It’s a truly special experience to spot wildlife drinking and bathing in the river below, all from your private pool.

Experience this on: Spectacular South Africa

Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff, Canada

Photo credit: @fairmontbanff on Instagram

This iconic luxury hotel is home to an entire Aquatic Center, so you can choose from the heated indoor and outdoor saltwater pools, or relax in the bubbling hot tub. Enjoy a dip or swim laps, then order drinks and snacks directly to your lounge chair. Take in the awe-inspiring views of the mountains, forests and lakes of the Canadian Rockies, or indulge in the world-class spa treatments at Fairmont Banff Springs.

Experience this on: Majesty of the Rockies

Mena House Hotel, Cairo, Egypt

Photo credit: @marriottmenahousecairo on Instagram

Imagine staring up at the Great Pyramids of Giza all from your luxurious pool. That’s the experience you’ll enjoy at Mena House Hotel. The hotel’s pool was the first swimming pool in Egypt, opened in 1980, so you’ll be swimming in a slice of history here. The large heated outdoor pool is set among its 40 acres of lush gardens and lined with sunloungers, so you can kick back with a cocktail underneath the gaze of the ancient pyramids.

Experience this on: Elegance of the Nile

The St Regis, Toronto, Canada

Photo credit: @stregistoronto on Instagram

The St Regis Toronto is luxurious in every way, and that doesn’t end at the pool. Head to The Spa on the 31st floor and you’ll find a 65-foot infinity-edge saltwater lap pool, whirlpool, sauna and steam room. Whether you like to swim laps or sip champagne in the water while admiring the views, this is the ultimate hotel pool sanctuary. The 31st floor also includes an ultra-luxurious spa and fitness center.

Experience this on: Indulgence in Eastern Canada

The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, Cape Town, South Africa

pool at The Twelve Apostles Hotel South Africa

Photo credit: @12apostleshotel on Instagram

Flanked by the Table Mountain National Park and the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range, the luxury hotel pools at The Twelve Apostles Hotel are truly divine. There’s two to choose from, starting with the heated infinity pool that looks out over the Atlantic Ocean and is lined with comfortable sun-loungers. There’s a good chance of spotting pods of dolphins or Southern Right Whales from this pool. You can also head to the gorgeous rock pools, with views of the rugged Table Mountain. Lounge service is available at both pools, with a menu of light meals and drinks. There’s even a complimentary refreshment station with sun lotion, water, fruit and magazines for you to enjoy. If you love to relax, be sure to check out the hotel’s award-winning luxury spa.

Experience this on: Spectacular South Africa

Dunloe Hotel, County Kerry, Ireland

Photo credit: @thedunloehotel on Instagram

The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens underwent a major €19 million refurbishment in 2018, resulting in a striking and elegant hotel, designed by Swiss architects Monoplan. The swimming pool got the same treatment. The heated, indoor 82-foot pool is now the ultimate place to relax or swim laps. The pool area features poolside loungers and floor-to-ceiling glass windows with views of the lush green countryside and Macgillycuddy Reeks mountain range. There’s also an onsite spa with a steam room, sauna, and gym.

Experience this on: Castles & Kingdoms

Reading time: 7 min

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Month: August 2023

Harry’s New York Bar – Paris, France

A cocktail atelier

Cultural epicenter

Harry’s Bar – Venice, Italy

Birthplace of the Bellini

Cultural icon

The Legacy of Harry’s Bars

Your cruise ship

Day 1: Split to Primošten

Day 2: Primošten to Kornati National Park to Telašćica

Day 3: Telašćica to Mali Losinj

Day 4: Mali Losinj to Zadar

Day 5: Zadar to Skradin to Šibenik

Day 6: Šibenik to Hvar

Day 7: Hvar to Bol to Split

Tambo del Inka, Sacred Valley, Peru

Leela Palace, New Delhi, India

The Langtham, Sydney, Australia

Quisisana Hotel, Isle of Capri, Italy

Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski, Saint Moritz, Switzerland

Ashford Castle, County Mayo, Ireland

Lion Sands Tinga Lodge, Kruger National Park, South Africa

Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff, Canada

Mena House Hotel, Cairo, Egypt

The St Regis, Toronto, Canada

The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, Cape Town, South Africa

Dunloe Hotel, County Kerry, Ireland

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