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London, England: The Definitive Luxury Travel Guide

August 24, 2022/0 Comments/in Experiences, Travel /by Erik Tompkins

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Experience Luxury with our London Travel Guide

With a history extending over 2000 years it’s no wonder that London has cemented itself as a leader of cosmopolitan style, merging old and new, royal decadence with edgy contemporary. Home to world-class shopping, dining, and design, a trip to London is always exciting. Experience the finest this storied city has to offer with this luxury London travel guide.

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Where to Stay

Flying into Heathrow Airport can be an ordeal, so having a quality hotel is essential to easily luxuriate across the pond.

For design enthusiasts, The Goring is one of England’s Grande Dames, and in celebration of the historic building’s centennial, it underwent a full scale redesign. Four legendary English designers (Nina Campbell, Tim Gosling, David Linley, and Russell Sage) worked to bring their joyous vision to life, from the plush, sophisticated rooms, to the verdant private garden, to the delightful Dining Room at The Goring, which was recently awarded its first Michelin Star. To tie it all together, The Goring is situated across the street from Buckingham Palace, putting guests in the middle of the city’s rich history.

For travelers looking for something a little more recent, L’oscar is London’s most stylish new hotel. Lavish and boutique, the 5-star hotel is a gorgeous baroque-style gem in the West End of London, acclaimed for its sumptuously decorated bedrooms and detailed, almost theatrical decor. Guests can expect goose-down pillows, intricate marble bathrooms, and a host of indulgent options for dining and cocktails- service and amenities fit for English royalty.

Of course, there’s the royal family’s favorite hotel, Claridge’s. Since the hotel opened its doors in 1856, it has acted as a home base for royalty and celebrities alike, and has always stayed updated with modern design. Settle into a fabulous suite and toast your stay with complimentary champagne, before checking out Claridge’s captivating artspace. The art deco stylings of the hotel’s bar harken back to a golden age of bespoke cocktails and comfortable glamor, the spirit of luxurious London travel.

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Where to Eat

From historical hotspots to traditional afternoon tea, London has a diverse restaurant scene sure to satisfy any traveler.

Dean Street Townhouse is the epitome of the bohemian neighborhood of Soho, as well as where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle had their first date. The interior decoration is sophisticated and welcoming, with a carefully curated collection of art, chronicling the evolution of London’s modern art scene. The delicious cuisine is an updated menu of traditional British food, with an emphasis on seasonal produce, sourced from across Ireland and the United Kingdom. The authentic menu even includes afternoon tea and Sunday roasts.

London isn’t exactly known for a wealth of West African food, but Chishuru is far and away the scene’s top dog. Richly complex and stunningly unique, Chishuru is a splendid introduction to the flavors of Nigeria, and the set-menus give guests a comprehensive tour of the region’s incredible cuisine. There isn’t another restaurant quite like it, and should be a serious consideration in any conversation about London travel.

Norma’s offers a Malaysian comfort menu from a tiny stall in the iconic Queensway Market. The hot soups and noodles are renowned for their authentic flavors, an instant staple of London’s underground food scene. If you’re looking for late-night takeout to enjoy in your fabulous hotel suite, Norma’s is the obvious choice.

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Where to Drink

There’s no shortage of charming cocktail bars in London Town, but it’s fair to say that there are a handful of standouts.

Authentique Epicerie & Bar is a cozy and friendly bar/wine seller with an unbelievable selection of wines, craft beers, and artisanal foods. The knowledgeable staff will go out of their way to find you the perfect glass, bottle, or pairing to soothe your soul after a long day of exploring London’s streets.

For a supremely stylish speakeasy, The Connaught Bar is the perfect place to rub elbows with London’s elites. The drinks are as fashionable as the decor, modern twists on English and Irish classics. Guests can feel like a real British aristocrat when their sparkling martinis are delivered on silvered carts by master bartenders.

Copeland Social is the place to be for a great sound system and hanging with friends. This hot hipster spot is always packed with energetic clientele looking for coffee, burgers, casual beers, and top-notch cocktails. The indoor-outdoor space is festive, welcoming, and effortlessly cool. Be sure to try the Peckham punch, a fruity ensemble with four different types of rum.

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Where to Shop

London is a serious design and fashion destination, and no trip is complete without acquiring some new threads.

Acclaimed fashion designer Erdem Moralioglu has opened his first standalone flagship store in Mayfair, and the sophisticated boutique is a must-visit for those looking to stay ahead of fashion trends. The two stories of vintage furnishings and witty drawings by Andy Warhold and Jean Cocteau are a veritable museum, and the clothes within are just as intriguing.

Jewelry designer Delfina Delettrez-heiress to the Fendi Fashion throne-has opened a store hosting her designs, handcrafted in Rome, displayed against malachite-print walls and antiques plucked from her childhood home. The treasures within make fantastic gifts, and are the perfect souvenir to remember your London travel experience.

In the heart of Chelsea, the bespoke LEMA displays 400 square meters of premier Italian interior design, a major player in contemporary hospitality and retail. If you’re in the market for fantastic furnishings, the UK store on King’s road is a real treat to visit.

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| Read More: Malta Travel Guide: Your Dream European Island Getaway |

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For more recommendations or booking reservations with any of these services, please contact [email protected] or inquire in the chat box below.

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The 10 Best Areas for Shopping in New York City

August 24, 2022/0 Comments/in Experiences, Lifestyle /by Zocha Group

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Shopping in New York City

Shopping is an entertaining way to spend your free time, and New York City is known as the US mecca for fashion. With lavish high fashion boutiques and independently-owned vintage shops all throughout the city, it can be an undertaking to find places that capture your style. If you’re on the hunt to enhance your wardrobe in NYC, head to these shopping destinations for the best areas for shopping in New York City to find your new favorite outfit.

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SoHo

SoHo, or south of Houston St., has blown up recently into an uber-popular destination for style icons and hometown fashion heroes alike. Whether you’re looking for Alexander Wang or Céline, or a small independent vintage shop, SoHo has all the threads you could ever want.

Nolita

A quick walk north of Little Italy in the Lower East Side will land you in the neighborhood of Nolita, a quaint Manhattan community whose streets are dotted with cute, independently-owned shops. If you’re looking to get away from the mainstream style scene and shop somewhere unique, Nolita is the place to check out.

St. Marks Place

Great finds of trendy vintage clothes and handmade jewelry is exactly what you can expect to find in St. Marks Place in the East Village. Right along with small vendors and shops, you can also explore luxury stores to indulge in the neighborhood’s offerings.

Lafayette Street

If antiques and classic items are your forte then you’ll have to take a walk along Lafayette Street in SoHo and NoHo. It has become extremely popular with collectors and enthusiasts because of its great selection of shops with rare finds. You’re sure to find one-of-a-kind items when you head to this neighborhood favorite.

Bleecker Street

Home of the biggest influx of shoppers in recent years, Bleecker Street is quickly becoming a ‘must’ for shopping in New York. Whether you’re a foodie, a vintage nut, or a high fashion connoisseur, this Greenwich Village go-to has something for everyone.

Union Square

If you’re in the mood to spend your day shopping with some friends or a loved one, you should check out Union Square in Manhattan. With long stretches of big name stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus in one area, and old record stores and antique jewelry in another, you could spend hours shopping until you drop for a variety of items. If you need a break, check out the famous Union Square Park or any number of artisan eateries in the area.

5th Avenue

Spend a leisurely day at one of NYC’s iconic destinations for retail therapy. Whether you’re aiming for a day at Tiffany’s or indulging in Prada’s purse collection, you’ll always find a variety of luxury goods that are sure to be the cherry on top of your New York experience.

Park Slope

Brooklyn’s Park Slope has become immortalized for its incredible shopping selection and variety, making this area any serial shopper’s dream. Unique, handmade wares are always offered, along with great vintage clothing, antiques, furniture, and much more.

Canal Street

If Asian goods are what you’re after, head over to Canal Street in Chinatown. Along with all the herbal and exotic animal shops found along the street, you can also find the Canal Street Market, which opened in 2017. The Market is a 50/50 split between food vendors and New York-based artists and artisans showing off and selling their creations.

South Street Seaport

Chic malls and hip shops are commonplace in the South Street Seaport area, with places like Pier 17 and Corso Como making a huge name for it. If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy and appreciate a unique look, you’ll definitely want to check out some of the hotspots in this area.

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Experience a Lavish Aspen Winter Retreat

August 24, 2022/0 Comments/in Experiences, Lifestyle, Travel /by Zocha Group

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A Winter Retreat in Aspen

As the cold weather sets in, many travelers begin to plan winter getaways in cities fit for skiing, snowboarding and enjoying the snow-covered scenery. A world-renowned destination for winter luxury is Aspen, Colorado—the perfect place to indulge with extravagant hotels, decadent restaurants, and a bustling nightlife scene to keep you warm. Head to experience a lavish Aspen winter retreat to take in the city’s culture during your winter vacation.

Where to Stay

Book your stay in Aspen to experience world-class service in an unforgettable atmosphere. The Little Nell is rated as one of the best hotels in the city with rooms overlooking the Aspen Mountains and a ski concierge team to handle all your needs for the slopes. Your stay will be eco-friendly at the Limelight Hotel, offering up bike rentals to make your way through the village. The modern design is sure to impress with floor-to-ceiling windows and chic, mountain-inspired décor. The historic Hotel Jerome , built in 1889, boasts top notch service to make your stay exceptional. The on-site Auberge Spa, luxury car chauffeur and twice-daily maid service is just the tip of the iceberg in giving guests the luxury Aspen experience.

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Restaurants

Aspen’s world-class cuisine is part of the draw as your taste buds will relish in the city’s array of fine dining experiences. A hot spot for a fusion of Mediterranean, Asian and Spanish dining, Bosq is a destination worth visiting for their worldly flavors. You’ll luck out if you’re staying at The Little Nell as their contemporary restaurant Element 47 is known for its creative dishes and outstanding wine program. Try out Colorado’s first venue from Chef Nobu at Matsuhisa, showcasing his famous Japanese dishes in an updated Victorian-style house. Jimmy’s is also a delicious choice for fine dining with its American fare that will make your mouth water.

Nightlife

Known for its lively scene, Aspen will have you partying until dawn as you mix and mingle with the city’s other visitors. Hotel Jerome’s J-Bar is a hot spot for a night out with its sophisticated Western style and 100-year history. Experience a trendy night out when you dine at 7908 Aspen, a destination with a live DJ to give a nightclub vibe to your dinner. If you’re into live music, Belly Up is a necessity as they drawn in international artists to bring some energy to the town. If nightclubs are your thing, Escobar’s trendy vibe will keep you dancing all night long with DJs, dancing and bottle service right at your fingertips. Just like its LA predecessor, Bootsy Bellows in Aspen also ushers in a club element to your night in the city’s iconic Crystal Palace building.

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Toast to the Good Life at the Best Cocktail Bars in Miami

August 24, 2022/0 Comments/in Entertainment, Hospitality, Nightlife /by Zocha Group

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Cocktail Bars in Miami

Every year, millions of people flock to the city of Miami for their perfect weather, beautiful beaches, and unparalleled nightlife. There’s a never-ending list of things to do and places to see in and around Miami, but nothing compares to relaxing after a long day with a drink at one of the city’s many impressive bars and lounges. Before your next trip to the Magic City, check out these picks for some of the best cocktail bars in Miami so you’ll know exactly where to go to unwind.

Los Altos

From the creators of Ball & Chain comes a new hole-in-the-wall destination that you can find up the stairs from Taquerias el Mexicano. Keeping with the South of the Border theme of their downstairs neighbors, Los Altos brings bright decor and a Mexican-influenced cocktail menu.

Cafe La Trova

Longtime cocktail creators Julio Cabrera and Michelle Bernstein have brought Miami a slice of classic and modern Cuban-inspired drinks and eats. Cafe La Trova pays homage to 1980’s Miami Cuban culture with their design as well as their menu, and even offer a top-tier coffee counter.

Astra

This rooftop paradise has a wide enough range of Greek-inspired cocktails to make you feel like you’ve traveled to Santorini. The space combines an industrial chic vibe with the ‘ambience of Mykonos’ to truly set it apart from its competition.

Boombox

Walking into Boombox is just like taking a step back in time to the late ’80s and early ‘90s. With a menu that boasts cocktails like the “Lemon Drop the Mic” and “The Longest Island Iced Tea,” Boombox is a different party every night with new music daily and fun themes for special occasions.

Kaido Miami

Brad Kilgore and award-winning bartender Nico de Soto have teamed up to bring Miami a little piece of Japanese culture in their newest cocktail bar, Kaido. Traditional Japanese drinks and eats with a fun modern twist can be found on the menu at Kaido. Behind the bar is a secret speakeasy dubbed AMA, where guests that are in the know can have a unique drinking experience of their own.

Broken Shaker

Vacationers from all over the world flock to Broken Shaker in the Freehand Hotel for their award-winning and world-renowned handcrafted cocktails. Exotic produce and freshly-made, mysterious elixirs are used to create delicious drinks with international flavors that will have you coming back time and time again. If you want to enjoy the beautiful Miami weather, take a seat in their backyard patio that gives guests a secluded outdoor drinking experience.

Bar Bevy

Located above Pharrell William’s restaurant Swan, Bar Bevy serves as its exotic and mysterious counterpart. Velvet seating, heavy curtains, dark wood floors, and interesting wall art make for some serious Arabian Nights vibes. To escape the dark interior, they also have airy, outdoor seating with string lights and heaters for chilly evenings.

Jaguar Sun

Recently opened on the ground floor of the luxurious X Miami apartments, Jaguar Sun has been creating quite a bit of buzz in the downtown bar scene. Using a large variety of popular and small batch brands of liquor, the team at Jaguar Sun have created a unique and satisfying selection of cocktails, ranging from all the classics to new tiki drinks.

Lost Boy is a two-story downtown Miami cocktail bar with quite the unique variety of interior designs. Whether you’re a fan of the American Southwest, traditional English pubs, or even drunken sailor bars, you can find it all at Lost Boy. The menu reflects the designs, in that they offer a straightforward menu of drinks and snacks that have stood the test of time. Along with cocktails, you can expect to see wines, tap-only beers served in pints, and exceptional coffee.

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Raise a Glass to the Best Wineries in Temecula

August 24, 2022/0 Comments/in Experiences, Hospitality, Lifestyle /by Zocha Group

the best wineries in temecula grapes on a vine

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Explore the Best Wineries in Temecula

You don’t have to visit Napa to experience some of the best vineyards in California wine country. Just over an hour southeast of Los Angeles, Temecula has reigned supreme as being Southern California’s best destination for wine. The burgeoning wine scene has been growing since the late 1960s, and the region is now home to almost 50 wineries producing as much as 500,000 cases annually. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a glass of wine under the Southern California sun, check out some of the best wineries in Temecula for a wine lover’s dream getaway.

best wineries in temecula wine country vineyard

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Ponte Winery

Visit the Spanish-style Ponte Winery that sits on 300 acres of land and offers a picturesque backdrop for your wine adventure. The rustic feel plays off of California’s mission history, where you can even book a room at their boutique hotel Ponte Vineyard Inn to fully enjoy the experience. Their motto is, “If you like it, it’s good wine,” and you’ll taste plenty of it at this destination.

girls cheers wine glasses temecula winery

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Robert Renzoni Vineyards

The storied wine history of Robert Renzoni Vineyards makes for delicious-tasting wine served in an Italian-style estate. With the family business beginning in the 1880s in Italy, the 12-acre vineyard focuses on Zinfandel, Bordeaux and other Italian varieties. Don’t forget to enjoy a meal at Mama Rosa’s Trattoria for authentic Italian dining.

Baily Vineyard & Winery

Bordeaux varieties are the focus at Baily Vineyard & Winery, where you can visit their tasting room to experience the 30-month aged flavor. Their 25-acre vineyard produces cabernet sauvignon, cabernet Franc and merlot that will sweep you away to the gardens of France with one sip.

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South Coast Winery

South Coast Winery combines a winery and a resort all rolled into one. They offer a diversity of wines as well as gourmet dining and even a day spa for you to enjoy during your luxury villa stay. With 45 wines produced on property, you’re bound to find a favorite while you explore their lively tasting room.

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Miramonte Winery

Visit one of the best wineries in Temecula to get a sprawling view of the city’s rolling hills from an elevation of 1,400 feet. Enjoy the laid back serenity by tasting their varietals from Spain and Portugal on a VIP Tour, or dine at Flower Hill Bistro to savor a glass over a sunset dinner.

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Leoness Cellars

Try the signature cabernet sauvignon from Leoness Cellars, a winery which sits on a hill overlooking acres of beautiful vineyards. Take a private vineyard tour and private tasting to get the full experience. You can also book a reservation at The Restaurant for an esteemed dining experience.

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Callaway Vineyard & Winery

With one of the best views in Temecula, you won’t regret stopping into Callaway Vineyard & Winery to sip and savor from their spacious tasting room. Try their Zinfandels and Syrahs full of flavor before grabbing a seat on the patio to watch the sunset. The onsite restaurant Meritage will round out your visit with dishes made from fresh ingredients grown right on the property.

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Akash Winery & Vineyard

This family-owned winery produces unique craft wines and are known for their contemporary bottle designs. Their award-winning wine comes from vineyards farmed with care, providing a variety of flavors for every palate. Visit the property to taste their impressive selection from their breezy, open-air patio.

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Hart Family Winery

With a surprisingly robust selection of wines to choose from, you can’t go wrong visiting this winery offering up Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese, Viognier and plenty more. Stop into the tasting room any day of the week to sample their delicious inventory.

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Vindemia Winery

The outdoor tasting room at Vindemia makes it one of the best wineries in Temecula, placing you in the middle of a natural setting. Upgrade your experience by booking a hot air balloon ride at the sister business California Dreamin’ Balloon adventures, and end your sky excursion toasting glasses over a bite to eat.

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| Read More: The Best Wineries to Visit in California |

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Satisfy Your Cravings at the Best Mexican Restaurants in Los Angeles

August 24, 2022/0 Comments/in Food, Hospitality, Restaurants /by Zocha Group

nachos with salsa guacamole best mexican restaurants

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Our Favorite Mexican Restaurants

Great Mexican food is almost like a birthright for Los Angeles, considering the area used to be part of Mexico. With such a strong cultural influence still present in the city today, Mexican restaurants in Los Angeles are plentiful, including menus of upscale Mexican cuisine. With Cinco de Mayo filling the city with cravings for tacos, quesadillas and the like, what better way is there to celebrate than by grabbing a bite and a margarita at one of the best Mexican restaurants in Los Angeles.

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Gracias Madre

In a city known for its availability of vegan food options, Gracias Madre quickly rises above the competition. Their secret is to take traditional Mexican dishes that are already close to being vegan and push them over the edge. Gracias Madre is widely known for its tasty guacamole, mezcal, and cashew-based cheese. They also serve an agave-heavy cocktail menu that won’t have you feeling guilty in the morning.

Toca Madera

An extensive cocktail menu and expertly-crafted Mexican cuisine classics make Toca Madera an all-in-one package. For a night out, look no further than a drive to West Hollywood where you can lounge at Toca Madera all night and never get bored. Celebrities, locals, and visitors alike flock there each day for high-quality dishes and one of the most lively dining atmospheres in Los Angeles.

Broken Spanish

Located a few blocks from the Staples Center, Broken Spanish should be your go-to spot for a night out before or after the big game. Whether you’re looking for an upscale restaurant or a place for drinks and dancing, Broken Spanish has it all. Crowds from all over the city congregate here for some of the best modern Mexican food in the city.

Petite Taqueria

Petite Taqueria in West Hollywood boasts a menu of Mexican classics with a twist. The prime La Cienega location in the heart of the neighborhood’s bustling nightlife scene makes it the perfect pre-party destination for enjoying a mouth-watering dinner. Fans of savory Mexican dishes and flavorful cocktails are sure to enjoy the Petite Taqueria experience.

Coni Seafood

If seafood is what you seek, Coni’Seafood has what you’ve been looking for. Beginning in the owner’s backyard in 1987, the restaurant has been fueling the larger LA community with Nayarit-style seafood for decades. Widely considered one of, if not the best seafood restaurants in Los Angeles, everything from ceviche to tacos de Marlin is served up with care and precision at both of their LA locations.

La Casita Mexicana

Heading south of Downtown lies La Casita Mexicana, a colorful Dia de Los Muertos themed restaurant that has been serving up some of the area’s best Chile En Nogada for years. The two head chefs of La Casita Mexicana are absolute rockstars when it comes to cooking up Mexican food, and they have quickly turned their restaurant into a Southern California institution.

Red O Taste of Mexico

The Red O culinary team prides themselves on using fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients in their classic Mexican dishes, as well as their steaks and seafood dishes. The restaurant, located in Santa Monica, houses a friendly and inviting interior that makes guests want to sit and have just one more glass of wine.

El Compadre

If there’s one thing that can get you ready for the weekend, it should be margaritas and dinner at El Compadre in Hollywood. Flaming drinks, an all-night mariachi band, and authentic Mexican food come together to create the perfect atmosphere to have a party. Experience this Los Angeles outpost for a menu of delicious dishes made from family recipes that won’t disappoint.

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Guide to Oktoberfest 2022 in Munich

August 24, 2022/0 Comments/in Entertainment, Events, Experiences /by Razi Shadmehry

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Experience Oktoberfest 2022 in Munich

After a two-year hiatus, Oktoberfest in Munich is back this year from September 17 – October 3, 2022! If you have an affinity for beer, music, making friends from all around the world, and celebrating for the sake of celebration, it’s time to start planning your trip to Munich. Originating as a days-long wedding celebration in 1810, the 212th Oktoberfest 2022 is sure to be one for the books.

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Know Before You Go

You’ll hear the locals refer to the festival as “the Wiesn”, a short name for the Theresienwiese fairgrounds on which Oktoberfest has always taken place. Oktoberfest 2022 is over two weeks long, but many seasoned festival-goers say that even just one or two days of celebration will fill your cup (or stein, if you will), so don’t feel like you have to attend each day. The festival and the tents inside are free to enter.

It’s essential to stay fed and hydrated throughout Oktoberfest, especially if you’re drinking heavily. You’ll find plenty of food options at every turn inside the festival: roast chicken, sausages, Bavarian soft pretzels, potato pancakes, and on and on. Some tents also feature nontraditional offerings like wine and Thai food. You shouldn’t have an issue finding water throughout the festival.

Oktoberfest is a celebration that revolves around beer, and drinking copious amounts of it. If a lively atmosphere and large crowds of (drunk) people aren’t your vibe, this may not be the right festival for you. However, there’s more to enjoy than just drinking, like live music, games, and carnival rides. Regardless of what’s brought you to Oktoberfest, don your best traditional Bavarian outfit (buy your own or rent onsite) and enjoy the celebration.

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Where to Stay

Oktoberfest takes place at the Theresienwiese fairgrounds in Munich’s Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt borough. Munich has a reliable public transit system, and locals recommend staying anywhere with easy access to either a U3, U4, U5 or U6 line.

One of our favorite hotels in Munich is The BEYOND by Geisel, a luxury stay in the heart of the city with a private chef always at the ready to prepare your next meal. The Platzl Hotel is also a favorite of festival-goers for its proximity to the grounds, fantastic onsite restaurants, and balance of modern and Bavarian classic decor. The Mandarin Oriental Munich will offer something different than the traditional with its worldly elegance and culinary inspiration from legendary Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. We also recommend the Hotel Munich City Center by Meliá, a trendy and convenient stay for those who want a great hotel bar to keep the party going.

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Choosing Your Tents

Most tents stop serving alcohol at 10:30 and close by midnight, but that shouldn’t be an issue when the kegs are tapped by 9 a.m.! There are 17 large tents (think capacity for 3,000 – 8,000 in each one) and 21 smaller tents. Experts say you can’t really go wrong with any tent, but each one does have its own personality and food/ beverage options. It’s recommended that you reserve tables ahead of time, especially in the evenings. The options can be overwhelming for first-time Oktoberfest visitors, but Zocha Group can help you make the ideal reservations for your party.

Some notable tents include Käfer, which is the only tent open till 1 a.m. Try to get there before the other tents close at 10:30 p.m. to ensure it doesn’t reach capacity! The Marstall tent is the most modern of them all, offering vegan and vegetarian options and generally catering to a younger crowd. You’ll find that locals favor certain tents, like Schottenhamel, while international guests (particularly Americans) can be found at the Hofbräu Festzelt tent. True Oktoberfest tradition lives at the—you guessed it—Tradition tent, and the Weinzelt tent might be the least traditional, featuring things like wine and seafood.

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Mark Your Calendar

Throughout Oktoberfest 2022, you can expect to find food, drink, and fun anytime of day, everyday of the week. However, there are a few stand-out events to make special note of. The first day of the festival, Saturday, September 17 this year, is one of the most exciting. Tents will open at 9 a.m., but the parade doesn’t begin until 11 a.m. At noon, the Lord Mayor of Munich officially taps the first keg, signifying that beer may be served and Oktoberfest has begun.

Sunday, September 18 is known as “Gay Sunday,” an all day and night party that happens at the Pschorr-Bräurosl tent. What started as a small gathering of friends in the 1970’s is now an all-out Pride-style event for festival attendees. There’s also the costume and hunters’ parade on Sunday at 10 a.m. where costume clubs, hunter troops, marching bands and musicians from around the world march through Munich and end up at festival grounds. Oktoberfest’s traditional church service happens on Thursday, September 22 in which all guests are welcome to join.

Both Tuesdays of the festival, September 20 and 27, are Family Days. Rides and performances will be discounted for kids and families to join in on the celebration! Sunday, September 25 is the annual outdoor concert, and festivities wrap up on Monday, October 3. The closing ceremony features the customary gun salutes to say goodbye to Oktoberfest till next year.

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| Read More: The Top Solo Travel Destinations for the First Time |

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For beer lovers around the world, Oktoberfest 2022 is definitely an event to check off the bucket list, and we’re here to help you plan the perfect trip to Munich. Please contact [email protected] or inquire in the chat box below.

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The Ultimate Nantucket Travel Guide

August 24, 2022/0 Comments/in Experiences, Lifestyle, Travel /by Razi Shadmehry

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Experience the Ultimate Nantucket Travel Guide

While Nantucket sure looks like a set from your favorite summer movie scene, it’s a wonderful destination year-round! A stone’s throw from the coast of Massachusetts, Nantucket is known for hidden beaches, quiet luxury, and slowing down by the sea. Take a quick ferry from Martha’s Vineyard (or a longer one from New York City), or fly in and enjoy the view.

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─ Our Favorite Nantucket Stays ─

The Wauwinet

It’s an island icon for a reason. Tucked between the ocean and the bay, you have your own private access to (and incredible views of) both. Choose to stay in the main house or one of the private cottages and enjoy complimentary breakfast and other refreshments throughout the day. The Wauwinet is adult-only and set a few miles from downtown, making this the perfect stay for true relaxation. You’re also already on site of one of the most renown restaurants on the island, Topper’s.

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The Nantucket Hotel & Resort

The Nantucket Hotel offers 1-to-4-bedroom suites or 1-or-2-bedroom cottages. This is the only year-round hotel on the island, and it’s full of tradition. At the Nantucket Hotel, even new guests are made to feel like family, and you’re guaranteed to book your second stay even before the first one’s up. Walk a few steps downtown, enjoy the heated pool, take a yoga class, and order the lobster tacos at Breeze Restaurant.

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White Elephant

At the White Elephant, choose between staying at the Residences, the Inn, the Hotel, or the Garden Cottages. Any accommodation here ensures chic Nantucket style and endless modern comfort. Take a yacht excursion from the hotel’s dock, stroll to the nearby Brant Point Lighthouse, or enjoy a couple’s massage. The White Elephant is also home to one of the best spas on Nantucket.

Hotel Pippa

Hotel Pippa is the newest boutique stay on Nantucket, and she’s bringing a fresh version of luxury to the island. Perfect for a girls’ trip, Hotel Pippa is the ideal backdrop for your beach days and late nights. It’s just steps away from the best downtown dining, drinking, and essential Nantucket travel destinations. Rooms are uniquely designed and outfitted with crisp linens, natural light, Dyson hair dryers, and spa-grade skin care products.

Best Food & Drink on Nantucket

How does a quarter pound of lobster in your bloody mary sound to start the day? Brant Point Grill at the White Elephant hotel serves up some of the most decadent breakfast on the island, and you don’t want to miss it. Then, you have to try a Terry Terrific from Something Natural for lunch. Their trademark sandwich includes turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce—a flavor combination that satisfies year-round! We also recommend lunch at Galley Beach to enjoy fine afternoon dining with your toes in the sand.

As the evening approaches, start with champagne and oysters at Cru and then head off to Sayle’s Seafood for a traditional Nantucket clambake: mussels, clam chowder, lobster, corn, potatoes and beyond! Or, if you’d rather something a bit more formal, enjoy the prix fixe menu at Straight Wharf. It’s different every day to accommodate the island’s freshest fare.

Unwind after dinner with cocktails at the Nautilus, Tree Bar, or Club Car. If you’re not in the mood for cocktails, have a beer at Cisco Brewers or swing by the champagne vending machine at the Gaslight. Then, enjoying live music at the endearingly divey Chicken Box is the only way to say goodnight to Nantucket.

Photo: Zocha Group

Nantucket Beaches & Activities

You’ll want to carve out plenty of beach time on your Nantucket travel itinerary. Jetties Beach is a favorite for good reason. It’s easy to get to, there are volleyball nets and a playground, well-kept showers and bathrooms, and the Sandbar nearby for food and drinks. For an adventurous beach day, drive on to Great Point to enjoy 1,100 acres of nature preserve, or to Smith Point which lies between the ocean and the sound. You also can’t miss the sunset on Madaket Beach.

When in Nantucket, do as the locals do—and that means spending lots of time on the water. Take a lesson at Nantucket Island Surf School, or take a boat charter out to sail the waves in style. If you’ve spent enough time outside, you can’t miss the local boutiques, independently owned bookstores, or artisan craft markets in downtown Nantucket.

Beyond a tee time at Miacomet Golf Course or reservations at the spa, don’t feel the need to schedule your every minute on the island. Rent bikes and meander through Sconset, walk around the Whaling Museum, or simply admire the manicured saltbox homes that line Nantucket streets.

Photo: Zocha Group

| Read More: Top 10 Dog Friendly Vacation Destinations in the U.S. |

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With so much simple beauty and many opportunities to indulge, beach towns don’t get much better than Nantucket. Please contact [email protected] or inquire in the chat box below to start planning your trip to the island.

Greece Summer Destinations for a Holiday Getaway

August 24, 2022/0 Comments/in Experiences, Lifestyle, Travel /by Zocha Group

Photo: Zocha Group – Greece Summer Destinations for a Holiday Getaway

Experience Summer in Greece

Your dream vacation awaits in a country of picturesque waterfront hideaways, bright white architecture, and clear blue skies to match your view of the Mediterranean Seas. Greece is an ideal getaway made up of thousands of islands that come together to create a summer in paradise. No matter your city of choice, you’re bound to wine and dine without a care in this beloved Southern European locale at these Greece summer destinations.

stairs overlooking cliffs and ocean in greece

Photo: Zocha Group – Greece Summer Destinations for a Holiday Getaway

Mykonos

This island in the Aegean Sea is one of Greece’s most popular destinations—a seaside oasis perfect for a luxurious escape. Sandy beaches and tantalizing nightlife help to draw in visitors looking for a lavish place to spend the summer. Make yourself at home in the lap of luxury by booking at the famous Belvedere Hotel, or stay at Mykonos Blu for a five-star experience.

Mykonos dining proves to be some of the greatest in the country with talented chefs plating signature Greek cuisine. Scorpios boasts gourmet Mediterranean dishes with an open-air space and communal seating fit for socializing. Integrate a bit of revelry into your meal with Nammos’ dazzling day parties and concerts to complement their exquisite seafood dining.

Santorini

Head to the Cyclades island of Santorini to see Greece’s iconic, whitewashed buildings that sit perched cliffside above the sparkling ocean. Indulge in a romantic stay at Mystique to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul with ultimate relaxation, or book at the exclusive Grace Hotel to lose yourself in the breathtaking views and buzzed about luxury stay. The local cuisine will have you savoring each bite with authentic dishes featuring unmatched, quality ingredients.

Head to Pyrgos Village to enjoy the intimate terrace dining at Selene and take in an award-winning, gastronomic experience. The cozy balcony of Koukoumavlos in Fira is also an option that will have you enjoying gourmet cuisine overlooking a stunning landscape view. End your night with a celebration at the famous Koo Club where you’ll be able to dance your heart out indoors and party beneath the night sky on the open lounge.

Athens

The capital might be your new favorite Greek destination with its numerous ancient landmarks and beloved cultural attractions. Dive into Athenian history by staying at the Hotel Grande Bretagne in Syntagma Square for unparalleled views of classical architecture in the heart of the city. The Electra Palace in Plaka also has an ideal location with a beautiful design that’s sure to impress. Being the largest city in Greece, there are plenty of diverse dining options that are sure to leave you satisfied.

If taking a cable car to dine atop the highest point in the city is your style, try Orizontes for an outdoor terrace view to remember. Stop by the one-of-a-kind Spondi to taste from a world-renowned menu boasting two Michelin stars and a unique, fine dining experience. As the sun goes down, you’ll want to visit Island nightclub on the Athens Riviera for an entertaining party destination with delicious cocktails.

Photo: Athens, Greece

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For information on accommodations, reservations or bottle service, contact [email protected] or inquire in the chat box below.

Tropical US Destinations for Your Next Island Getaway

August 24, 2022/0 Comments/in Experiences, Lifestyle, Travel /by Zocha Group

Photo: Zocha Group – Tropical US Destinations for Your Next Island Getaway

Tropical US Destinations

When you think of a vacation, you might imagine sitting on a white sand beach in a far off country with a drink in hand. While many of these destinations may seem exotic, there are plenty of US territories around the world that don’t even require a passport for your visit. Making your way to a beachside oasis has never been easier. Get your fix of luxury and relaxation when you visit these US tropical vacation destinations.

St. Thomas – U.S. Virgin Islands

St. Thomas serves as the gateway isle into the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. Though it is only 32 square miles, the small island has an unending list of activities for you to do. There is no shortage of small coves and inlets to explore along with a world-renowned golf course, beaches that compete with the best in the world and an energetic nightlife scene.

American Samoa

A next-door neighbor of Fiji, the American Samoa islands are just a 13-hour flight from Los Angeles to the southwest, past Hawaii and nearby to New Zealand. It is this prime location that gives the islands a distinct feel from any other area of the U.S. or her territories. Enjoy hiking the volcanic mountains or scuba diving in crystal blue waters off of a white sand beach. There is also no shortage of high-end dining and residences that offer visitors a truly luxurious stay.

Guam

For a tropical vacation that feels worlds away from the U.S. mainland, consider booking a trip out to Guam–a U.S. island located south of the Philippines. The remote island has become a vacation hotspot for U.S. elites in the last couple of decades, attracted by the unique cuisine, beautiful landscapes, and waters perfect for snorkeling or diving. Shipwrecks off the coast serve as great spots to explore while scuba diving, or lounge at their impressive hotels like the Dusit Thani Guam Resort for a bit of rest and relaxation.

Isabela – Puerto Rico

If the energetic nightlife and touristy shopping of San Juan isn’t quite your scene, consider heading west on a two-hour drive to the relatively undiscovered town of Isabela. The town carries a slower and more peaceful feel, and visitors make the most of this attitude by taking in everything the town has to offer like pristine beaches and beautiful sunsets. If you do decide to make the trip to Isabela, you won’t be completely in the woods. There are still options for high-end accommodations like the breathtaking Royal Isabela and fine dining like The Eclipse restaurant.

The Florida Keys

This chain of islands off the southern coast of Florida is the most Caribbean you can get without leaving the mainland. The colorful and unique architecture along with the tropical climate makes the Keys feel like you’ve truly left the States. Head to Key West for snorkeling, fine dining, an active nightlife scene.

Kauai – Hawaii

The most beautiful and least developed island in Hawaii, Kauai offers visitors lush mountainscapes, breathtaking shores, and a rich culture to explore. The otherworldly island has been the backdrop for numerous Hollywood movies and T.V. shows, so cinephiles will enjoy exploring some recognizable locations.

Only a three-hour flight from New York, San Juan feels worlds away from the U.S. which makes the seaside paradise the perfect tropical vacation spot for anyone looking to get away from the hustle of city life. San Juan is Puerto Rico’s largest city, serving as its capital. Visit the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan and gaze on the colorful Spanish architecture, still alive from the old world. After checking out some of the historical sites that the city houses, head to one of the fine dining restaurants dotted all around San Juan like the beachside Oceana that features upscale Caribbean cuisine.