It didn’t surprise me at all that the venerable Sunset Magazine recently featured an article on the newly restored Murrieta Hot Springs Resort (including a cover story and inclusion in its travel destination list and travel directory). It’s a thermal spa that recently opened just an hour’s drive up the freeway from our home in San Diego.
My love affair with natural hot springs goes back decades. During my 15-year residency in Southern Germany, I had the pleasure of soaking in thermal mineral waters in the nearby spas of Baden-Baden and Bad Tölz, as well as in many other geothermal spas throughout Europe. Whenever we took a family vacation, I insisted it had to be to a destination that offered steamy and relaxing mineral waters.
Europeans learned decades ago about the health benefits of mineral baths, fueled by the research done in the 19th century by the Catholic priest Sebastian Kneipp. Plagued with tuberculosis at an early age, Kneipp eventually cured himself by eating a diet of plant-based and locally sourced food, as well as a regimen of hot and cold-water immersions. His spirit still lives on across Europe today, and his natural health products continue to be sold around the world.
Ironically, it turns out that there was another German connection in the development of the Murrieta Hot Springs. In 1902, the German immigrant Fritz Guenther purchased much of the land around the springs with the vision of developing the property into a health spa resort, the likes of which he knew from his home in Bavaria.
Overhead landscape view of Murrieta Hot Springs Resort. Photo by Joanne and Tony Dibona.
He achieved his goal, and in the early 20th century, the resort became a vacation and spa therapy spot for many Hollywood stars and socialites who traveled from Los Angeles to Murrieta to “take the waters.” The quaint and historic city of Murrieta is located within easy driving distance from Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego.
We both enjoyed the opportunities to plunge into the mineral waters during our travels to hot springs destinations around the world over the years, which compelled us to drive the hour from our home in downtown San Diego to Murrieta (located near the city of Temecula) to check out this local experience.
We reached the health and vitality mecca via the 15 freeway, a drive made more efficient by using the Fast Track lanes that are free to autos carrying two or more passengers. Along the way, my husband, a San Diego native, recalled how his Sicilian parents often traveled the rural back roads by car to Murrieta from their home in San Diego’s Little Italy with him in tow—to “take the waters” for a family close-to-home vacation experience. Even today, the resort carries on the tradition of welcoming families with children to the spa.
Stone Lodge. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pO6W433SgRY
Upon arrival at the resort, we enjoyed complimentary parking in the large parking lot that surrounds the property (available for both day and overnight guests). We then made our way to accommodations at the Stone Lodge, part of our two-day sojourn, to report on the transformation of this property into the first-class venue it is today.
The resort has gone through several owners over the decades. It was finally sold for $50 million in 2022 and underwent an amazing renovation of its historic buildings and thermal pools. This also included a state-of-the-art sauna and fitness center, as well as upgrades to just about every part of the original property.
We learned later that it was quite an effort to renovate all the historic buildings, since many of them were in dire need of repair, but you would never know this while exploring the grounds and buildings today.
Walking along the flower and plant-studded paths along the peaceful lagoon and admiring the classic buildings along the way is worth the price of entry alone—not to speak of the opportunity to soak for an entire day in a wide variety of natural thermal pools.
Stone Lodge guest room. Photo by Joanne and Tony Dibona.
Our hotel room was beautifully outfitted to modern standards. From a lightning-fast internet connection, to an in-room fridge, luxurious bath, etc., guests can enjoy modern conveniences in this restored vintage hotel. As an added bonus, they can snuggle in a plush bed (complete with herbal pillow sprays to promote “heavenly” sleep).
Each room at the resort is equipped with a “sleep tray” featuring educational materials on hot spring soaking for recovery and restorative sleep, healthy bedside snacks, earplugs, and other amenities carefully curated by the resort’s medical director.
Our two-day immersion into the healing waters also included quite a few interesting experiences. We enjoyed exceptional vegan cuisine (though a variety of other culinary options are available at the resort). As parents of a vegan daughter, we know it isn’t easy to create such a meal, but Chef Steffen is a master of this challenging art.
Chicken salad at Murrieta Hot Springs Resort. Photo by Joanne and Tony Dibona.
Historic buildings and delicious local cuisine aside, “taking the waters” remains the highlight of a visit to Murrieta Hot Springs. Public soaking pools are positioned in all areas of the resort, and you need only follow the map provided at check-in to select a favorite pool option.
There’s even a “Vitality Plunge” (aka Polar Plunge) that promises to create many health benefits for those who are willing to soak for a while in the warm water and subsequently plunge into the adjacent cold pool. As previously mentioned, this method was endorsed by Kneipp to cure many ailments.
Dynamis Fitness Center at Murrieta Hot Springs Resort. Photo by Joanne and Tony Dibona.
It’s also interesting to note that one of the most state-of-the-art fitness centers we’ve ever visited (and we’ve experienced many in our travels around the world) is the resort’s Dynamis Fitness Center. The center is filled with accomplished staff that takes fitness to the highest level for visitors of all ages.
Overnight resort guests receive access to the center during their stay, and day guests can purchase fitness classes at a discounted rate.
The Bath Hall, one of the resort’s newest restored buildings, is a remarkable achievement. It offers a variety of hot pools under its roof, including pool lifts for the physically challenged. On the top level, a state-of-the-art sauna awaits the visitor with an amazing view of the valley’s verdant mountains.
We savored our leisurely walks around the lagoon, breathing in the fresh air, disconnecting with the world, admiring the swans as they glided by —and most importantly, connecting with each other.
While we may not have the opportunity to experience the Bavarian and Austrian spas again anytime soon, it’s so refreshing to know that we now have this opportunity right here in our own backyard!
Editor’s Note: Even luxury travelers don’t mind saving a few bucks, right?
Traveling in 2026 doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, savvy travelers can save hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars on airfare by taking advantage of error fares. These are rare, often fleeting pricing mistakes made by airlines or booking platforms that, when booked wisely, can offer extraordinary deals on flights.
But while the potential savings are enormous, navigating error fares safely requires awareness, preparation, and a careful approach to avoid pitfalls.
As the Chief Information Officer at SlickTrip (a leading flight price drop website), I’ve witnessed firsthand how savvy travelers can take advantage of error fares. Here is what to know about what error fares are, how to spot them, tips for booking safely, potential risks to be aware of, and strategies to maximize your savings. This guide will give you the tools to fly smarter and spend less, all without compromising your travel plans.
What Are Error Fares?
An error fare occurs when an airline or travel booking platform accidentally lists a flight at an incorrect price. These mistakes can result from human error, system glitches, or misapplied promotions. Unlike regular sales or discounted fares, error fares are often drastically lower than the market rate, making them highly sought after by deal-hungry travelers.
Booking a ticket online. Stock photo.
Common Types of Error Fares
Error fares can take several forms. Typo fares occur when a simple data-entry mistake, such as entering “$100” instead of “$1,000,” creates massive savings.
Currency conversion errors also sometimes lead to international fares being miscalculated, resulting in unbelievably low prices.
Mispriced promotions happen when deals intended for specific routes or dates are accidentally applied to unintended flights.
Glitch fares on third-party booking sites can also occur when platforms miscommunicate with airlines, causing temporary pricing errors.
These error fares are usually short-lived, as airlines often correct them within hours or days, making timing critical. While some travelers may receive confirmation from the airline, there’s no guarantee, which means it’s essential to act quickly while remaining cautious.
How to Find Error Fares
Finding error fares requires vigilance, speed, and the right tools. One of the most effective ways to track them is by leveraging dedicated resources and travel communities. Specialized websites and blogs, such as SecretFlying, TheFlightDeal, and Airfarewatchdog, monitor and post error fares from around the world. These sites often provide instructions for booking and tips on how to act quickly.
Airplane at airport. Stock photo.
Flight tracking apps like SlickTrip are also useful, as they offer real-time monitoring of flight costs and price alerts for specific routes. These are key for error fare detection.
Subscribing to newsletters from airfare blogs and deal sites can also give you a crucial head start, as some deliver error fare alerts in real time. Social media platforms and online forums, including Reddit communities like r/FlightsDeals and various Facebook groups, can be invaluable as well. Members frequently sharing error fares before they disappear.
Tips for success: keep your travel dates flexible, be ready to book immediately, and keep multiple payment options handy. The first traveler to book an error fare often secures the deal.
Tips for Booking Error Fares Safely
While the potential savings from error fares are enticing, they do come with risks. To minimize these risks, it’s important to act quickly but cautiously. Always double-check the itinerary, airport codes, and travel dates before booking, as a misread route or incorrect airport can turn what seems like a bargain into a costly mistake.
Using flexible payment methods can also provide an extra layer of protection. For example, credit cards often offer better dispute options and fraud protection compared to debit cards. Non-refundable or unusual payment methods can also leave you vulnerable if the airline cancels the flight.
Additionally, it’s crucial to review airline policies, including cancellation, change, and refund rules. Some airlines may honor an error fare but impose restrictions that limit flexibility. Travelers should also be vigilant against scams. Booking only through reputable websites and avoiding unfamiliar third-party platforms reduces the risk of falling for deals that seem too good to be true.
Finally, reading the fine print is essential, as taxes, fees, and seat availability can significantly affect the true cost of an error fare. It is vital to ensure the booking aligns with your travel plans.
By taking these precautions, you can secure error fares safely and enjoy significant savings without unnecessary risk.
Yellow airport signage. Stock photo.
Potential Risks and How to Handle Them
Booking error fares comes with its share of challenges, and understanding potential pitfalls can help travelers prepare for unexpected outcomes. One key risk is airline cancellations or fare reversals. Airlines are not obligated to honor error fares, so having a backup plan or travel insurance can help mitigate disappointment if a booking is canceled.
Another common issue is limited availability. Because error fares are usually deeply discounted, the number of seats offered at the lower price is often very small, making it crucial to act quickly to secure a spot. Travelers should also be aware that standard travel insurance may not cover trips booked through error fares, so it’s important to review policies carefully before purchasing coverage.
Financial protection is another consideration. Using a credit card for payment, keeping thorough documentation, and monitoring airline communications closely can provide recourse for refunds or chargebacks if a booking is canceled. By being aware of these risks and planning accordingly, travelers can act strategically when airlines correct pricing errors and still take advantage of significant savings.
Maximizing Your Savings
Error fares offer more than just cheap flights, as they can be a powerful way to maximize the value of your travel. For example, if you have frequent flyer miles or hotel points, booking an error fare can multiply your savings.
Some travelers even earn points on mispriced fares, boosting overall rewards and making the deal even sweeter. Another way to get more from an error fare is to plan multi-city trips or stopovers. By adding extra destinations or connecting flights, you can turn a single low-cost ticket into a chance to explore multiple cities without spending a fortune.
It also pays to monitor follow-up deals. Airlines sometimes release promotions or offer upgrades after an error fare has been booked, so staying alert can help you enhance your travel experience even further. By strategically combining error fares with rewards programs and thoughtful planning, a single pricing mistake can become a luxurious, cost-effective adventure.
Couple checking in at airport. Stock photo.
Case Studies / Real-Life Examples
Real-life success stories show that while error fares can be unpredictable, they are a legitimate way to travel cheaper when approached responsibly. The Transatlantic Bargain is a perfect example of the power of error fares. A traveler discovered a typo fare from New York to London listed at $120 instead of $1,200. By acting immediately and securing the booking with a credit card, they locked in round-trip airfare for a fraction of the usual cost.
In another example, the Asia-Pacific Glitch involved a mispriced flight from Los Angeles to Tokyo that allowed a family of four to travel for half the normal fare. They booked quickly, carefully checked airline confirmations, and used flexible accommodations to ensure their trip went smoothly and safely.
Real-life examples like these highlight the importance of preparation, diligence, and swift action. These stories also offer valuable lessons. Again, common mistakes include ignoring airline confirmation emails, booking through unreliable websites, or assuming the fare guarantees a seat without verification.
Unlock Incredible Savings with Error Fares!
Error fares offer travelers a chance to fly affordably and explore the world without overspending. By acting quickly, verifying travel details, using trusted websites and secure payment methods, and understanding airline policies, you can avoid common pitfalls like cancellations or limited availability.
Maximizing value with loyalty points, multi-city trips, and follow-up deals make these fares even more rewarding. With preparation, vigilance, and flexibility, error fares can turn a simple pricing mistake into unforgettable, budget-friendly adventures.
Marrakech (aka Marrakesh) is an ancient city located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains in the center of Morocco. It has the largest and oldest medina (walled city) in the country which is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walking through the narrow, labyrinthine alleys of the city’s old town, you realize that life has continued here much as it has for hundreds, if not a thousand years. The muezzins still call the faithful to prayer five times a day, but the calls are now pre-recorded. And no one seems to pay much attention, as the ebb and flow of commerce continues unabated.
A view of Marrakech from a Riad terrace. Photo by Manos and Barbara Angelakis.
The old caravanserais that were used as hostels and stables hundreds of years ago are now housing souvenir sellers, herb and spice vendors, antique markets, butchers, sweets bakers, tile merchants, cloth and carpet weavers, carpenters, metal workers, and a variety of other stores and retailers. If it’s produced anywhere in Morocco, it will be found in this medina.
A number of the ancient family-owned mansions have been purchased by new owners, restored and refurbished and turned into luxurious Riad hotels. A Riad is a traditional Moroccan home built around an interior courtyard. Actually, the word “riad” derives from the Arabic word for “garden.”
A Riad courtyard in Marrakech. Photo by Manos and Barbara Angelakis.
The buildings are designed in Andaluz-styled architecture. The courtyards are tiled with geometric or naturalistic tile designs and should have plants in planting beds and a central fountain. A few courtyards feature a shallow oblong pool. Some of the larger hotel Riads are composed of adjacent houses and have two or more courtyards.
A luxury Riad courtyard. Photo by Manos and Barbara Angelakis.
Riads were originally built as palaces and lived in by very wealthy merchants or courtiers, housing several generations of the same family. In order to make the most of the limited space available in the crowded medina, Riads are narrow and tall, with two or three stories overlooking the courtyard.
These stories have balustraded balconies and walkways, allowing residents to enjoy ample light and fresh air. There is only a single entrance door to the outside street, and there are no windows in the exterior walls. All windows and doors look into the open-air courtyard.
Moroccan Culinary Art Museum. Photo by Manos and Barbara Angelakis.
A very interesting place to visit in the Marrakech medina is the Moroccan Culinary Art Museum. It’s a combination museum, exhibition space, and culinary center, where you can learn the ins and outs of Moroccan cuisine. There are modern demonstration rooms with closed circuit TVs where an instructor will demonstrate a dish, and participants can follow and prepare their individual versions.
A tagine in Marrakech. Photo by Manos and Barbara Angelakis.
The main cooking implement for Moroccan dishes is the tajine, a two piece terracotta or stoneware peaked baking dish. The dishes are also named tajines. They are usually casseroles made with vegetables and either lamb, chicken, or beef with a large variety of spices cooked on medium fire for a considerable time. Couscous is sometimes used to complement these dishes.
Breast of chicken with vegetables tagine. Photo by Manos and Barbara Angelakis.
Dishes served in a tajine are traditionally eaten communally. Diners sit around a low table and eat with the right hand, using pieces of Moroccan flatbread to scoop up meat chunks, vegetables, and sauce. The taste is very distinctive because of the use of a traditional spice blend which consists of paprika, ground coriander seeds, cassia, allspice, chili powder, cloves, green cardamom, and gGarlic.
There are regional variations to the spice blend that can also include saffron, turmeric, and preserved lemons. Raisins, dates, dried apricots, or dried prunes are also often used with chicken, beef, or lamb to sweeten the dish.
Sometimes, slivered dried almond meat or pine nuts are added to tajines, but those are not found in traditional versions that have their origins in the North African Maghreb. These two ingredients originated in cooking preparations of the Ottoman Empire and are transplants. The Ottomans never actually conquered Morocco, though they culturally influenced the country (especially the cuisine).
Harira soup. Photo by Manos and Barbara Angelakis.
Another classic, traditional Moroccan dish is Harira, which is a soup made with dried legumes — lentils, chickpeas, and fava beans that have been soaked overnight, along with onions, celery, carrot cubes, turmeric, cumin, paprika, cilantro, crushed tomatoes, preserved lemons, and a dash of cinnamon.
It’s traditionally cooked with lamb shoulder or in mutton stock. It’s popular at the beginning of a meal but is also eaten on its own as a light snack. There are many variations, and it’s mostly served to break the fast during Ramadan, although it’s cooked throughout the year.
Marrakech. Photo by Manos and Barbara Angelakis.
There are medinas in all major Moroccan cities, but the one in Marrakech is the oldest and largest. The passages are so intertwined and convoluted that you could get lost, even using GPS. While walking through the labyrinth, I expected a flying carpet to appear overhead any minute but quickly realized that flying carpets come from a different part of the world (the Arab Middle East). No matter how many brass oil lamps I rubbed, no jinn would appear to grant me three wishes!
A spice merchant in the medina. Photo by Manos and Barbara Angelakis.
Get some insights into what motivates you to travel and the type of travel best suited to your personality number.
The way we travel can be impacted by who we are: In other words, your personality type. Whether a Perfectionist, Expressionist, Analyst, Adventurist, Naturalist, or one of the other points, your type is an indicator of what you most enjoy seeing and doing while traveling. It’s prompted by inner basic motivations and drives that essentially make each one of us who we are.
The Enneagram, while said to have ancient origins, received exposure early in this century in the esoteric teachings of Georges Gurdjieff and has gained credence in recent decades through the writings of Chilean psychologist Claudio Naranjo, M.D. Represented by nine points on a circle, the Enneagram categories represent preferences in life within nine different types.
The Enneagram circle. Image by Karin Leperi Pezo.
Although you’ll probably recognize several types within your psyche, Enneagram practitioners believe that you will consistently revert to a primary type. Knowing that basic character is like knowing your family birth order and to some, your astrological sign. Your type may offer you a psychological window to your inner drive and help you grow from that understanding.
I’ve applied the model to types of travelers and include a summary of all nine types with identifying characteristics and behaviors. Whether you travel for art, nature, sports, culture, or the dining scene, insights provided by the Enneagram can help expand your repertoire and lead to opportunities for self-growth.
All types have positives and negatives. Whatever your type, we should all strive to evolve our travel type to one motivated by curiosity, knowledge, appreciation, and acceptance of diversity.
What follows is a basic outline of the nine types. Read all the descriptions and choose the one you identify with most, knowing you’ll find aspects of yourself in many of them. Then let us know your type in the comments!
After you select your type, read the travel interests and motivations predicted for that type. Once you recognize your type, don’t be afraid to venture outside motivations that define your number. In the process, it may elevate your travel to new levels, as well as set you on the road to discovering inner talents and strengths you’re unaware of.
Keep in mind that the Enneagram types are generalizations at best and descriptive more than prescriptive. Think of the Enneagram as a way to focus travel but expand it at the same time. Sometimes when we travel outside our comfort zone (i.e., our travel personality) we find that those are the times of greatest meaning and revelations.
1 Perfectionist
With nine types of travelers based on the Enneagram of personality typology, which one are you?
You are idealistic and moralistic, holding yourself to high standards of personal honesty and integrity. The most rational and self-disciplined of the nine Enneagram types, you hold others to high standards as well, which can lead you to being critical or feeling superior when those standards are not met.
You are organized, logical, and detailed. You know the “best way” to do things. Your vocabulary tends to be peppered with shoulds and musts. Procrastination can be a trademark; however, you would rather not do something than do it less than perfectly.
Your travel type: You are drawn to activities and events that require focus on detail, discipline, and perfection. You require a rigid agenda and want to stick to it at all costs. Deviations leave you feeling anxious. Religious travel is particularly appealing.
Your travel challenge: Try incorporating activities that are less structured and allow you to let go. Embrace the moment, but allow for time to flow extemporaneously. Challenge yourself to go with the flow and not plan a day. Experience more pleasure and less self-punishment for not measuring up to your concept of perfection.
2 Giver
You are naturally gregarious and outgoing. You enjoy travel involving people and socializing. You make decisions from the heart rather than the head. You are caring, empathic, charitable, friendly, and attentive to others’ needs. You want to be liked and put great emphasis on relationships, your identity often being defined by them. When you don’t receive the gratitude you feel you deserve, your type can become manipulative, controlling, or smothering.
Inner fire: To help and serve others; to be loved.
Your travel type: You enjoy activities structured around people, casual walks with friends, and romantic outings. Your focus is on family and friends. Volunteerism is particularly suited for you.
Your travel challenge: Take time to care for yourself, even when you’re with others. Include activities that focus on discipline and endurance. Build your confidence by traveling solo once in a while.
3 Competitor
You are competitive in just about anything you do and tend to be really good at what you do. One-upmanship is your signature: You aren’t happy unless you can track progress, record achievements, and measure yourself against others. You epitomize the type A personality, the workaholic, and the incessant doer. You will do whatever it takes to make a good impression. You excel through perseverance, hard work, long hours, practice, and sheer investment of sweat.
Inner fire: To achieve and to be viewed as successful by others
Your travel type: You are drawn to anything where there is competition. Even if it is merely counting how many states you have been to, how many countries, how many UNESCO sites, etc. You get the idea. You travel to trendy places and to make a fashion statement.
Your travel challenge: Integrate noncompetitive activities that relax and focus you inward. Try going to a monastery, mosque, museum, or even the theater. Free yourself from tasks, and build in unstructured time to be fully in the present.
4 Expressionist
You are in touch with all of your emotions, often too much and sometimes to the point of eccentricity. You are the most self-aware type and consciously seek opportunities for spiritual and emotional growth.
Inner fire: To discover your identity and share your unique qualities
Your travel type: You are wonderfully artistic and seek creative outlets that express the five senses. You travel for high culture, fine dining, and artistic uniqueness. Art, music, dance, theater, and drama define your travel universe.
Your travel challenge: Choose a more typical or traditional type of travel such as an organized group tour, cooking class, or themed outing. Learn to appreciate the ordinary.
5 Analyst
You are a storehouse of knowledge, enjoying books, computers, and constant learning. While you tend to be introverted and independent, you can also be critical, withdrawn, and out of touch with the world of sensation.
Inner fire: To expand your knowledge and interests
Your travel type: You’re more interested in becoming an expert in your field, so travel tends to be focused on special interests such as academics, photography, comic books, science fiction, science, and history. If you love comic books, you go to comic book conventions. You get the picture. This type is calm in a crisis and prefers to travel solo.
Your travel challenge: Try travel with a social orientation such as group travel with a cultural focus. Become a culture vulture and emphasize diversity.
6 Team Player
You are loyal, reliable, and hardworking, often with a well-developed sense of humor. You like predictability, organization, and plenty of rules and regulations. You need to belong to a club or community. On the flip side, you can be suspicious, anxious, sarcastic, and much too serious when you’re feeling insecure.
Your travel type: Since you don’t like change in your routine, you are a traditionalist who likes to take traditional tours. Group travel is appealing, including cruising and multi-generational excursions. You are drawn to predictable time-shares for that reason, as well as all-inclusive resorts.
Your travel challenge: Try travel and activities that focus on adventure and individual effort. Enter a marathon, or go on an ocean cruise solo. Balance any negative spin with positives.
7 Adventurist
You are drawn to novelty, adventure, and breadth of experience. Depth is not your strong suit. You’ll try just about anything at least once and then move on to the next exciting adventure. You’re not known for commitment, intensity, or depth; you’re easily bored by routine and the ordinary. You’re also flexible, optimistic, vivacious, energetic, independent, opinionated, and resistant to authority.
Your travel type: You seek out fun, exciting, and unusual activities and groups, collecting experiences for their own sake. This might include parachuting, expeditionary cruising, or sleeping in ice hotels. Anything that is off the beaten path. A tendency toward over-scheduling and too much future planning are hallmarks of your type. You enjoy luxury and epicurean delights such as wine-tasting and fine dining, but you eschew structure and set itineraries.
Your travel challenge: Even though you are good at many different things, try making some commitments and exploring destinations on a deeper level. Work on being in the present. Go for depth, detail, and self-discipline. Perhaps a writer’s retreat in an isolated location?
8 Judge
You are assertive and judgmental, even combative and vindictive as you try to dominate and control situations. You are direct, confrontational, and no-nonsense in your approach to life, with a quick, cutting anger. At your best you are generous and brave, and you make things happen when others cannot. Fiercely protective of your flock, you will go to bat for the underdog when you perceive that justice is being abused. You are sometimes described as a Mack truck filled with marshmallows.
Inner fire: To be self-sufficient and control your environment
Your travel type: You’re attracted to activities where you are in charge. Extreme activities excite you because of the adrenaline rush and sense of mastery. Survivalist-type travel may also appeal to you.
Your travel challenge: Try engaging in activities that invoke the senses and engage the heart. Go on a safari and sip a sundowner to celebrate end-of-the-day. Or consider a couple’s retreat. Moderate your instinctual energy by indulging your emotional side. Try relaxing and letting someone else call the shots. Farm-to-table dining or agritourism may be just what you need.
9 Naturalist
You are drawn to harmonious activities that accentuate group cohesiveness and belonging. You are usually open-minded and generous, avoiding conflict and confrontation. Undemanding and nonjudgmental, you preserve peace at any price. You often take on the personality traits of those around you to blend in. You are so understanding of different perspectives that sometimes you lose yourself in the process. Despite your serene attributes, you can be volatile in times of stress, epitomizing the passive-aggressive personality.
Inner fire: To be in harmony with other people and your environment
Your travel type: You enjoy nature and thus activities like hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, and kayaking. You look for travel that lets you connect with the environment. Slow travel, environmental projects, and community involvement are especially appealing to your type.
Your travel challenge: Try exploring some of the great cities of the world, and in the process, learn about the culture, cuisine, and uniqueness of neighborhoods. Celebrate differences rather than try to harmonize things around you.
First of all, Happy New Year! Wishing you wonderful travels in 2026.
New tourist fees in Rome. The fees continue to pile on, but I think they make sense. To improve congestion around the Trevi Fountain, Rome will charge a 2 Euro fee during daytime hours if you want to get close to the landmark.
Rome’s Trevi Fountain. Photo by TTstudio.
Spirit Airlines still standing. A $100 million investment has kept Spirit Airlines afloat at least for now after it filed bankruptcy.
New Paris train. It won’t start until early 2027, but there will be a train from Gare de l’Est to Charles de Gaulle Airport running every 15 minutes from 5 a.m. to midnight and will take just 20 minutes. A one-way ticket will cost about 24 Euros, but it will cut down on the sometimes long trip from the airport to central Paris.
American Airlines change. Basic fares will no longer earn frequent flyer miles. I wonder if other airlines will follow suit.
Small plane crash. Seven people were killed a couple of weeks ago in North Carolina when a small Cessna C550 crashed during its landing at Statesville Regional Airport. A former Nascar driver and his family were among the passengers lost.
Cautions about travel near the border of Thailand and Cambodia. As clashes continue between Thailand and Cambodia, officials in several countries are advising that travelers avoid going anywhere near the border.
Attacks across the globe. Sadly, mass shootings and stabbings take place frequently in the U.S., but it’s rare for them to happen in other countries. Recently, however, I’m sure you heard about the shooting on a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney, Australia’s Bondi Beach that killed 15 people. There was also a mass stabbing attack in Taipei that resulted in four deaths. Unfortunately, South Africa has seen an increase in mass shootings. The most recent one I read about was on December 21st at a tavern near Johannesburg. Ten people were killed, and 11 people were arrested.
Beautiful Bondi Beach in Australia. Stock photo.
More countries added to the U.S. travel ban. As of January 1st, eight more countries were added to the ban that began in June, which means citizens of these countries will not be allowed into the U.S. at all: Syria, South Sudan, Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, Laos, Sierra Leone, and those with Palestinian Authority papers. Already on the travel ban were: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Other countries face partial entry restrictions: Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Burundi, Cuba, Ivory Coast, Dominica, Gabon, Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Venezuela, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Ship runs aground in Papua New Guinea. The Coral Adventurer, an Australian cruise ship, was under investigation after a passenger was left behind and died back in October. Now, its vessel is stuck on a reef off PNG, and 88 passengers had to be flown home early.
It is with profound sadness that we must announce the passing of our beloved founder, Manos Angelakis, on December 3, 2025. We will all miss him immeasurably, and we will continue to honor his work by republishing his articles in this magazine that he created with his dear wife, Barbara Angelakis. What follows is a eulogy that Barbara wrote for him.
Manos Angelakis
My beloved husband Manos Angelakis peacefully departed this earthly plain in the early hours of December 3, 2025 after a courageous fight with the aftermath of cancer. Cancer doesn’t come by itself; it brings lots of company that ravages the body even after the cancer has been vanquished… and so he has paid the ferryman and crossed the River Styx with great anticipation of his next big adventure.
Manos led a storied life with adventures and experiences galore of wondrous delight. He was born in Athens, Greece to a prominent and historic family at the beginning of WWII and spent his early years dodging bullets in his neighborhood. Things improved rapidly after the war, and by his teens, he was literally living the life of Reilly with a stellar trilingual education and friends and parties galore. His military service was as liaison to NATO. where his special talents made him an invaluable asset.
Afterwards, as a young adult spent on the continent, he was at the forefront of the literary and musical scene during the fabulous 60s, and his stories could fill volumes. But when he crossed the pond to see what was on the other side and met me, his wife Barbara, his life changed in an instant. It was love at first sight.
Manos (right) raises a glass in Andalucia. Photo by Manos Angelakis.
On our first meeting, he told me he was going to marry me. And after getting to know him – his intelligence … his talent … his spirit of adventure … his joie de vivre … not to mention his good looks … he proved irresistible.
We built a life and joint careers together for 56 years with our last career as writers for the lifestyle magazine, LuxuryWeb Magazine that he created. It was one of, if not the first, consumer lifestyle magazine on the web back in 1997.
Manos Angelakis, Barbara Angelakis, and Melanie Votaw (Photo by Maria Lisella)
Manos was the Managing Editor and wrote about travel, food, and wine with a true dedication and exuberance for his subject. He shared his extensive knowledge for over 25 years. His was a life well lived.
During his earlier career as a commercial photographer, he learned from the top talent in the field, and when he went out on his own, we won a wall of awards. Moving on to video and film production, he was awarded many trophies for excellence. As a travel writer and food and wine connoisseur, he traveled extensively so that he could share his special point of view with his worldwide readers. In fact, we had three highly anticipated trips on the board when he was stricken.
Manos leaves behind a younger brother Michael in Athens Greece, along with wife Barbara, nieces and nephews, friends and colleagues, who will miss him dearly.
Vienna is one of the most regal of Europe’s great cities. The mostly Baroque architecture creates high drama throughout the streets with imposing statues, green patina domes, and intricate detail work. In fact, the word “grandeur” in the dictionary should be illustrated by pictures of the city center – a legacy left by the Hapsburgs after their 640-year rule.
The most famous building of that legacy is Schönbrunn Palace, which was built in 1752 and has 1,441 rooms. The grounds are also the home of the world’s oldest zoo still in existence. My favorite architectural landmark in Vienna, though, is the Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. You can’t miss it because it’s right in the middle of everything and has a striking mosaic roof.
Beautiful Vienna. Photo by Melanie Votaw.
Besides just ogling the architecture, what I love about Vienna is simple: strolling the streets, people-watching, and visiting some of the shops that actually made goods for the Imperial Court. I drooled over the fine porcelain at Augarten and the delicate hand-blown glass at Lobmeyr, which is also famous for its chandeliers. (Lobmeyr designed and made the crystal chandeliers in New York’s Metropolitan Opera House.)
The porcelain of Augarten. Photo by Melanie Votaw.
If you want to get some fabric for a special custom garment or buy a scarf as a gift, head to Jungmann & Neffe, tailor to the royals. If nothing else, just walk in, take a look at the designs, and run your fingers over the cashmere. Then, drop by Demel, the perfect break spot for a Viennese pastry and a coffee. Walk upstairs to sit down rather than stand in line on the ground floor.
Demel pastry shop in Vienna. Photo by Melanie Votaw.A chocolate pastry at Demel in Vienna. Photo by Melanie Votaw.
For a great lunch in a beautiful, huge, Art Nouveau greenhouse building, there’s Palmerhaus, a restaurant in the Burggarten, a 19th century park near Schönbrunn Palace. Or take yourself to one of the restaurants along the Danube. Spend the rest of your afternoon visiting some of the many world-class museums in the city like the Kunsthistoriches, with its extensive collection of antiquities, historic musical instruments, and masterpiece paintings. It is honestly one of the best collections in the world.
Hotel Sacher in Vienna. Photo by Melanie Votaw.
As for where to sleep, I had the good fortune to stay at the famous Hotel Sacher, the home of the well-known Café Sacher and the dark chocolate Sacher Torte. The 5-star hotel was built in 1876 and has 149 individually designed rooms and suites. People like Queen Elizabeth II, Grace Kelly, Leonard Bernstein, John Lennon, and John F. Kennedy have stayed there.
Hotel Sacher in Vienna. Photo by Melanie Votaw.
I loved the Blaue Bar, which is decorated entirely in deep blue from the walls to the velvet loveseats. There’s also the Rote Bar in red and the Anna Sacher Restaurant in rich green. Rote Bar serves traditional Viennese cuisine, while the Anna Sacher Restaurant serves some of the most creative dishes I’ve ever seen.
Blaue Bar at Hotel Sacher. Photo by Melanie Votaw.
The meal I had there was one of the most memorable of my life. The menu changes periodically, and there are several choices for each course, allowing you to design your own meal. What I remember most was my cherry gazpacho with a small brioche in the center and some savory elements to cut the sweetness. I had a strawberry sorbet with goat cheese for another course and perfectly prepared venison for my main course.
Anna Sacher Restaurant at Hotel Sacher in Vienna. Photo by Melanie Votaw.Cherry gazpacho at Anna Sacher Restaurant. Photo by Melanie Votaw.
Of course, with dinner, we enjoyed Viennese wines. One of the things that many people don’t know about Vienna is that it’s the only world capital with a number of vineyards in the city itself – 700 hectares of them. The wines in Vienna tend to be light whites like Riesling, although more red varietals are being grown today than in the past.
Weingut Mayer Am Pfarrplatz in Vienna. Photo by Melanie Votaw.
I loved the evening we enjoyed a meal at a traditional wine tavern called a Heurigen. The one we visited, Weingut Mayer Am Pfarrplatz, was a short cab ride from the city center and has been in existence since 1683, serving food since the 19th century. Beethoven even stayed upstairs for a period of time and composed part of his Ninth Symphony there.
Traditional food and Riesling at Weingut Mayer Am Pfarrplatz in Vienna. Photo by Melanie Votaw.
We sat outside with some of the grape vines tangled in a canopy overhead, and an accordionist played live music for the guests made up of both locals and tourists. The traditional Viennese foods – Weiner Schnitzel (breaded and fried chicken or veal), sausages, and sauerkraut – were a great counterpart to the white wines.
A waltz ball in Vienna. Photo by Melanie Votaw.
Vienna is also host to many waltz balls. If you get a chance to attend one, it’s the experience of a lifetime. In any event, you can take a waltz lesson at The Dancing School Elmayer, which has been in existence since 1919. As a tourist, you can arrange to take a lesson or two there yourself and feel ready for your grand ball experience or just chalk it up to a quintessential thing to do in Vienna.
I’ve seen most all of the large cities in Europe, and Vienna is unlike any other. There’s a reason why this gem on the Danube has often been named the world’s most livable city.
In September 2025, I left New York City for a dream trip to Kenya and Madagascar. Before leaving, I alerted the U.S. State Department of where I would be, which meant I would receive emails about issues in either of those countries.
Well, shortly after arriving in Kenya, I began to get emails about political unrest in Madagascar. There were numerous demonstrations, and the State Department urged travelers to be careful.
While I had a wonderful time in Kenya, I continued to get emails from the State Department. Eventually, they issued a Level 3 alert, suggesting that Americans not travel to Madagascar at all unless it was essential. As the protests escalated, the Madagascar government decided that anyone who participated was to be considered an enemy of the state, and they would shoot.
Meanwhile, I received an email from Audley Travel, the company with which I had booked the Madagascar portion of my trip. They brought up the protests and asked what I wanted to do. At first, I decided I would still go, and I was then requested to sign a waiver in addition to the one I signed when I booked the trip, which basically said that if I was killed, Audley wasn’t responsible.
Of course, I understand why I was asked to sign such a waiver, as it would have been my choice to take the risk. But it DID give me pause.
At the same time, the State Department emails became more frequent and intense, saying that protests were starting up spontaneously and that the government was indeed shooting people. In fact, a few people were killed during this time, and ultimately, the situation became serious enough that the president fled the country as a military coup took place.
When I was making my decision, I looked at my itinerary provided by Audley, which said I would have to drive through the capital city in order to reach my first destination. It also said that traffic could be backed up for a considerable time in the capital. So I began to envision myself stuck in traffic when a demonstration began, finding myself and my driver in the crossfire. I had already experienced a 20-minute standstill in Nairobi’s traffic.
Stock image of protest.
I called Audley and spoke to one of their representatives, who told me that she thought under these circumstances, I would receive some of my money back, even though it was normally past the time to request a refund. She thought I would have to pay for the first few days but not beyond that. So I decided to err on the side of caution and cancel the trip.
Upon returning to the U.S., I soon found out from Audley that their representative had given me the wrong information. At first, they said I would receive no refund whatsoever. This trip was at a cost of nearly $9,000 for just over a week, so this news was, of course, devastating. I felt that it was Audley’s fault for not training its personnel properly. If it had, I would have been given the correct information when I connected with them from Kenya.
It also turns out that travel insurance policies do not generally cover “political unrest.” They reimburse for terrorist activity only. So basically, I was screwed.
Audley did eventually manage to get me back just under 16% of my cost, but the loss has been horrific. I must also report that weeks after I booked the itinerary (many months prior to my departure date) – which was created for me as a solo traveler slightly below the maximum budget I had specified – I was told that Anjajavy Le Lodge, a Relais & Chateaux property in Madagascar, had forgotten to charge me the single supplement for the flight to their location (which is only accessible via plane or boat).
Audley wanted me to pay for this and said they were still discounting it. Therefore, I should absorb the cost. But that would have put the itinerary over the budget I had set. At this point, it was already purportedly too late to cancel and get 100% of my money back. So I fought it because I felt that it was again Audley’s fault for not verifying with Anjajavy that the single supplement had been included in the quote for my itinerary.
To Audley’s credit, they did eventually relent and eat that extra cost, which I felt strongly was the right thing for them to do under the circumstances. But I also don’t think I should have had to fight so hard for it. As a result of these issues, I will never book a trip with their company again.
I have since found out that a friend of mine was scheduled to go to Madagascar at the same time, but his tour company cancelled his trip on its own accord to avoid the risk and gave him a full refund. Audley did not do that, and I think they should have.
I have been traveling internationally for decades, have gone to many remote places, and have purchased countless travel insurance policies. Even after visiting more than 50 countries on 6 continents, including some remote places, this is the first time I’ve been faced with political unrest. So even an experienced traveler like myself wasn’t aware of the inability to recover funds when unrest is the issue.
Ron Bronfman is the Sommelier at Claro Restaurant in London’s St. James area. Serving Mediterranean cuisine, Claro was recently added to the Michelin Guide. For December, Ron has launched a regionally focused wine selection from the Rhône Valley, designed to introduce guests to regional stories, thoughtful producers, and expressive bottles that sit outside the usual London lists.
Sommelier Ron Bronfman. Photo courtesy of Claro Restaurant.
France’s Rhône Valley is an important wine region in the southern part of the country, and it’s divided into its northern and southern climes. The north is associated most prominently with Syrah, but also produces whites: Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne. The south is best known for both red and white blends, as well as sweet whites.
That said, you’ll see that Ron’s choices below are heavy on reds. If you try any of these, please report back!
Whites
Marsanne Blanc, VdF, Domaine Rouchier 2021
Viognier Blanc, VdF, Domaine Rouchier, 2021
St. Péray “Ongrie,” Domaine Alain Voge 2022
Claro Restaurant. Photo courtesy of Claro.
Reds
Antraigue Syrah, VdF, Domaine Rouchier 2021
Cuvée “Emma” Vallée du Rhône, Domain Gallety 2020
Cornas “Les Chailles,” Domaine Alain Voge 2021
Côtes du Rhône reserve, Chateau de Tours 2019
Saint Joseph “Luo,” Domaine Rouchier 2021
Côtes du Vivarais “La Syrare,” Domaine Gallety 2020
Cornas “Vieilles Vignes,” Domaine Alain Voge 2015
Côte Rôtie “Côteaux de Bassenon,” Maison Stéphan 2018
Côtes du Rhône reserve, Chateau de Fonsalette 2011
Saint Joseph, Domaine Pierre Gonon 2020
Châteauneuf du Pape, Marie Beurrier, Domaine H. Bonneau 2018
For your holidays, we have the ultimate source of stress-free entertaining advice: the winemakers of Temecula Valley in southern California. Pros from Wilson Creek, South Coast, Baily, and more offer their recommendations below for host-worthy bottles, their go-to holiday food pairings, and their secrets to keeping gatherings joyful and genuinely relaxed.
Their collective message is simple: take a breath, pour something delicious, and focus on connection.
Wendy Holder (Wilson Creek) reaches for their Petite Sirah, which she loves because it’s bold, a little unexpected, and stands up to rich holiday fare.
Jon McPherson (South Coast and Carter Estate) is a two-bottle guest, always bringing Beaujolais Nouveau and plenty of sparkling wine, like a Blanc de Noir from Carter Estate.
Brittany Mastin (Churon Winery) brings a crowd-pleasing, versatile bottle: their 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, calling it rich and smooth for everything from roast beef to a cheese board.
SharonCannon (Altisima) says it isn’t the holidays without their Sparkling Brut – festive, crowd-pleasing, and guaranteed to kick off the holiday vibes.
Carol Baily (Baily Winery) goes for rosé, choosing the Grandol Rosé (a Mourvèdre/Grenache blend) because it shines with turkey and all the classic trimmings.
Walter Carter (Danza del Sol and Masia de la Vinya) fully embraces his reputation as the guy who refuses to show up with just one bottle. His picks are Danza’s GSM and Masia’s bright, refreshing Albariño.
Jennifer Buffington (Cougar Vineyard) opts for something particularly memorable: their estate Ciliegiolo, an unlikely red that sparks conversation.
Raymond Murgo (Falkner Winery) leans into their 2023 Amante, an award-winning Super Tuscan-style red that’s a staple at their own celebrations.
A Temecula region vineyard. Photo courtesy of Temecula Wines.
Favorite Holiday Pairings
A peek into the cellars and kitchens of Temecula’s wine experts:
Petite Sirah & Prime Rib: (Wendy Holder, Wilson Creek) — “The ultimate holiday power couple.”
Sparkling Wine & Salty Chips with Caviar: (Jon McPherson, South Coast) — The perfect pre-feast ritual.
Estate Reds (Paso Doble/Syrah) & Charcuterie: (Brittany Mastin, Churon) — A classic pairing for aged cheeses and cured meats.
Masia de la Vinya Monastrell & Prime Rib: (Walter Carter, Masia) — “A pairing that feels like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket that also sings Christmas carols.”
Amante & Grilled Octopus/Couscous: (Raymond Murgo, Falkner) — A global, Super Tuscan-style pairing. Temecula Valley is SoCal’s Mediterranean, after all.
Enjoying wines in the Temecula, California wine region. Photo courtesy of Temecula Wines.
The Secret to Great Holiday Hosting: Don’t Overthink It
Across the Valley, winemakers agree that lower pressure equals higher joy. “The best gatherings are the ones where people actually relax,” says Wilson Creek’s Wendy Holder. “When the host is calm and enjoying the moment, everyone else follows.” Her recommendation? “Pick a few things you can do well, pour the good wine, and let everyone help themselves.”
South Coast and Carter Estate winemaker Jon McPherson takes a similarly heartfelt approach, reminding us that the real point of the holidays is connection. With so much emphasis on details, he says it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that guests “aren’t judging your house or your tablescape – they want to laugh, share stories, and savor the moment.”
At Churon Winery, Brittany Mastin leans into warmth and welcome over perfection. For her, a successful gathering comes down to choosing a few dishes you can execute well and setting out plenty of wine. “Guests remember how they felt more than they remember a perfectly folded napkin,” she says.
Altisima’s general manager, Sharon, channels a distinctly Australian take: “Back home in Australia, gatherings are all about easy vibes, shared plates, and enjoying each other’s company,” she says. “The rest will sort itself out.”
Carol Baily of Baily Winery offers the sort of wisdom only earned through decades of celebrations: “Relax and enjoy the day. These are the times you’ll remember when you’re old and gray.”
Even the unofficial “Chief Holiday Cheer Officer” himself, Danza del Sol and Masia de la Vinya’s Walter Carter, boils it down simply: hospitality is about how people feel. “Create a space where people feel celebrated, put on GOOD music that makes you smile, pour generously, and be fully present,” he advises. “The magic is in the moments, not the menu.”
