Linda - Blogs - Tripatini2024-03-29T01:58:17Zhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/feed/tag/LindaRomance Along the Canals of Amsterdamhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/romance-canals-amsterdam-holland-netherlands2020-08-06T11:29:02.000Z2020-08-06T11:29:02.000ZLinda Cooperhttps://tripatini.com/members/LindaCooper764<div><div class="entry-image"><a href="https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/files/593/4/80754/Amsterdam-canal_bu.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/files/593/4/80754/Amsterdam-canal_bu.jpg?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="Amsterdam-canal_bu.jpg?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></div><div class="entry-content notopmargin"><p><br /> There is something so inherently romantic about canals, dreamily gliding across its idyllic waterways with the one you love. To celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary, my husband and I chose Amsterdam; a capital of romance with its cobbled streets, bouquets of blooms and rich culture to commemorate our “pearl nuptials”.<br /></p><p>We stayed at the famed <a href="https://www.pulitzeramsterdam.com/pulitzer-overview/" target="_blank">Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam</a> and in a stroke of pure serendipity discovered the iconic hotel was also celebrating its own milestone this year, marking its legendary 50th birthday.</p><p><br /> Peter Pulitzer (Grandson of Pulitzer Prize founder Joseph Pulitzer) opened the Hotel Pulitzer in 1970 with its historic 400 years of heritage in the heart of Amsterdam’s historic City Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set within an intricate maze of twenty-five restored 17th- and 18th-century canal houses, the iconic luxury hotel is a historical discovery with a long and illustrious past dating back to its former residents of the Golden Age.</p><p><br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/images/article/2020Mar/2_Pulitzer_Lobby.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/images/article/2020Mar/2_Pulitzer_Lobby.jpg?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="2_Pulitzer_Lobby.jpg?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></p><p></p><p></p><p>No two rooms designed the same in a nod to Amsterdam’s rich past and contemporary present, we awoke each morning to a stunning canal view in our charming eclectic suite with its classic beauty and traditional Dutch craftsmanship.</p><p></p><p><br /> <a href="https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/images/article/2020Mar/Pulitzer_hotel_room.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/images/article/2020Mar/Pulitzer_hotel_room.jpg?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="Pulitzer_hotel_room.jpg?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></p><p></p><p></p><p>Within the walls of each room hangs a plaque, sharing the story of its past canal house owner and very fittingly to honor its golden milestone in style, the <a href="https://www.pulitzeramsterdam.com/50-years-pulitzer/" target="_blank">Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam</a> is bringing the stories back to life with its <a href="https://www.pulitzeramsterdam.com/50-reasons-to-visit-pulitzer-amsterdam/" target="_blank">“Stories To Stay”</a> promotion to celebrate its 50th anniversary.</p><p><br /> Located in the fashionable Nine Streets on the doorstep of the colorful Jordaan neighborhood, the Pulitzer stands center stage amidst a picturesque array of shopping boutiques and charming cafes.</p><p><br /> With so much to see and do in Amsterdam, we enjoyed the hotel’s prime location exploring <a href="https://www.amsterdam.info/museumquarter/" target="_blank">The Museum District</a>, <a href="https://www.annefrank.org/nl/" target="_blank">The Anne Frank House</a>, and the <a href="https://www.amsterdam.info/shopping/flowermarket/" target="_blank">Flower Market</a> all within a short distance from the hotel.</p><p><br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/images/article/2020Mar/Amsterdam4.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/images/article/2020Mar/Amsterdam4.jpg?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="Amsterdam4.jpg?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></p><p></p><p><br /> Perhaps the most unforgettable experience was our private “Tour d’Amour,” cruising the canals in luxurious style with <a href="https://www.classicboattours.nl/en/" target="_blank">Classic Boat Tours</a>.</p><p><br /> Stepping aboard our sweetheart <a href="https://www.classicboattours.nl/en/boats/prix-deau/">Prix D’Eau</a> boat, the warmth of its wood enveloped us instantly in a wave of authenticity and love in which the ship had been restored built over a century ago to its current beauty.</p><p><br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/images/article/2020Mar/Amsterdam5.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/images/article/2020Mar/Amsterdam5.jpg?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="Amsterdam5.jpg?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></p><p></p><p>We nibbled on a champagne brunch of delectable treats as our knowledgeable boat captain shared Dutch history, fun facts, and famous landmarks from the water.</p><p><br /> Undeniably Amsterdam is most beautiful seen from the water, taking in the sights - an absolute bucket-list must when visiting the stunning capital of the Netherlands.</p><p><br /> <br /> <img alt="Amsterdam trip" src="https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/images/article/2020Mar/Amsterdam7.jpg" /></p><p><br /> <br /> In the evening we’d retreat to the timeless Art Deco glamour of the Pulitzer’s Bar. Sipping cocktails while overlooking the signature canals in our plush jewel-toned armchairs, reflecting on the day’s adventures, relaxing in its old school, speakeasy elegance.<br /></p><p>Amsterdam is easily one of the most <em>romantic</em> cityscapes in all of Europe, providing a striking backdrop for centuries of love stories.</p><p><br /> Inspired by our surroundings basking in its magical aura, we celebrated our anniversary in true “stories to stay” spirit, toasting to 30 more years and joined the special rank of hotel guests whose stories bring the Pulitzer Amsterdam to life.</p><p><br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/images/article/2020Mar/Amsterdam8.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/images/article/2020Mar/Amsterdam8.jpg?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="Amsterdam8.jpg?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></p><p><strong><br /> <br /> <br /></strong></p><p><a href="https://www.traveltimewithlindatv.com/about-linda-cooper.html" target="_blank"><br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>Linda Cooper </em></span></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>is an award-winning TV host, producer, and writer serving as a brand ambassador to worldwide travel on her national luxury lifestyle series Travel Time with Linda as well as a contributor to several lifestyle and travel publications. Her specialties include television and in lifestyle publications include the travel; lifestyle; luxury; tourism; hotels; restaurants; food/wine; fitness; spas; and retail shopping industries. Season one of Travel Time with Linda Caribbean Dreaming aired nationally on AXS TV Network, winning a 2018 Telly Award; it's available on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Travel-Time-with-Linda/dp/B079BLXS61" target="_blank">Amazon Prime Video</a>. Season two , featuring bucket-list destinations, airing in 2019, was similarly honored and is now streaming on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Travel-Time-Linda-Bucket-Destinations/dp/B081SF5YXZ" target="_blank">Prime</a>. Season three, currently in pre-production, shines the spotlight on the world’s most incredible geothermal natural wonders and will air in 2021.</em></span></p><p><em> </em></p></div></div>In Pursuit of Nirvana in Thailandhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/in-pursuit-of-nirvana-in-the-far-east2019-08-18T16:30:24.000Z2019-08-18T16:30:24.000ZLinda Cooperhttps://tripatini.com/members/LindaCooper764<div><p>When wanderlust strikes, there’s only one cure: a departure from the everyday to discover something extraordinary.</p><p>Every few months my gypsy spirit awakens anxious to explore new lands; most palpable typically when I’m on hiatus from filming for my travel show, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Travel-Time-with-Linda/dp/B079BLXS61" target="_blank"><i>Travel Time with Linda.</i></a></p><p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/3-bangkok-hand-holding-.jpg?ssl=1"><img alt="Kamala Bay" src="https://i0.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/3-bangkok-hand-holding-.jpg?resize=814%2C1024&ssl=1" class="i-amphtml-fill-content i-amphtml-replaced-content" /></a></p><p>With the world as my oyster, my pursuit of nirvana was most recently sated on our travels through Thailand; a destination so diverse there is no shortage of fabulous experiences.</p><p>From Elephant Trekking the jungles of Chiang Mai to exploring the ultimate urban playground of Bangkok, with its centuries-old temples sitting alongside bustling markets and city skyscrapers, to island hopping to the beautiful beaches of Koh Samui and Phuket; the magical “Land of Smiles” had me at “Wai Kha.”</p><p><a href="https://i2.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/4-Baan-Banyan-wide-shot-open-air.jpg?ssl=1"><img alt="Baan Banyan" src="https://i2.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/4-Baan-Banyan-wide-shot-open-air.jpg?resize=1024%2C359&ssl=1" class="i-amphtml-fill-content i-amphtml-replaced-content" /></a></p><p><a href="https://i1.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/baan-banyan-pool-ocean-view.jpg?ssl=1"><img alt="Baan Banyan" src="https://i1.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/baan-banyan-pool-ocean-view.jpg?resize=1024%2C359&ssl=1" class="i-amphtml-fill-content i-amphtml-replaced-content" /></a></p><p>Perhaps the most spine-tingling locale of all was our stay in Phuket–and experiencing it in the most luxe way possible: as a guest at <a href="https://www.baanbanyanvilla.com/" target="_blank">Baan Banyan Villa</a>.</p><p>Nestled into the hillside of Kamala Bay, with breathtaking ocean views surrounded by nature with uninterrupted views of the Andaman Sea, this ultra-chic villa that accommodates up to 12 guests complete with Private Chef, Villa Manager and two housekeepers, was our luxurious landing pad for three wonderful days, to enjoy with my husband–all to ourselves.</p><p><a href="https://i2.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/baan-banyan-red-dress.jpg?ssl=1"><img alt="Baan Banyan" src="https://i2.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/baan-banyan-red-dress.jpg?resize=932%2C1024&ssl=1" class="i-amphtml-fill-content i-amphtml-replaced-content" /></a></p><p>Built on multi-levels to take advantage of its incredible setting, this privately-owned rental property is where contemporary meets traditional Asian styles, idyllically designed to create aphrodisiac privacy from every angle.</p><p>Talk about glitter and glam…experiencing “Villa Life” at <a href="https://www.baanbanyanvilla.com/key-features/" target="_blank">Baan Banyan</a> takes first-class to a whole new level.</p><p>Having always stayed at five-star resorts, I felt utterly spoiled in my newfound, eye-opening appreciation of the “Luxury Villa” concept.</p><p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Baan-banyan-with-Chef-and-Bood.jpg?ssl=1"><img alt="Baan Banyan" src="https://i0.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Baan-banyan-with-Chef-and-Bood.jpg?resize=837%2C1024&ssl=1" class="i-amphtml-fill-content i-amphtml-replaced-content" /></a></p><p>We ate like royalty, as our Private Chef prepared utterly scrumptious cuisine with portion sizes enough to feed a large family. We dined on delectable exotic fruits for breakfast, fresh caught White Snapper; a delicate white fish common to Thailand expertly de-boned for lunch and humongous prawns and crab for dinner– all complemented with an array of mouthwatering Thai specialty dishes with a presentation unsurpassed to any fine dining establishment.</p><p><a href="https://i1.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/fruit-plate.jpeg?ssl=1"><img alt="Baan Banyan" src="https://i1.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/fruit-plate.jpeg?resize=1024%2C753&ssl=1" class="i-amphtml-fill-content i-amphtml-replaced-content" /></a></p><p><a href="https://i1.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Lunch-white-snapper-dish.jpg?ssl=1"><img alt="Baan Banyan" src="https://i1.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Lunch-white-snapper-dish.jpg?resize=1024%2C782&ssl=1" class="i-amphtml-fill-content i-amphtml-replaced-content" /></a></p><p>After our one attempt to leave the property and enjoy the beach at nearby <em>boujee-style</em> <a href="https://cafedelmarphuket.com/" target="_blank">Café del Mar Beach Club</a>, we couldn’t manage to tear ourselves away again from our Villa paradise. The rest of our stay we blissfully lounged in the lap of luxury, enjoying the expansive infinity edge pool, ending each day with a Thai massage poolside serenaded by the gentle breezes and crashing ocean waves that surrounded us. It was intoxicating.</p><p>Pure nirvana….</p><p><a href="https://i2.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Nirvana-thai-massage-poolside.jpg?ssl=1"><img alt="Baan Banyan" src="https://i2.wp.com/luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Nirvana-thai-massage-poolside.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1" class="i-amphtml-fill-content i-amphtml-replaced-content" /></a></p><p></p><div class="relpost-thumb-wrapper"><div class="relpost-thumb-container"><h3>Related posts:</h3></div></div></div>My Life's a Trip: Bucket-List Thailandhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/thailand-bucket-list2019-09-08T14:27:00.000Z2019-09-08T14:27:00.000ZLinda Cooperhttps://tripatini.com/members/LindaCooper764<div><div class="article__container cf"><div class="article__content"><p><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/images/news/dagE_fRF.jpg?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/images/news/dagE_fRF.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="dagE_fRF.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></p><div class="image-credit"></div><p>It's hard to imagine that through most of its history, the country known as <strong>Thailand</strong> was called Siam until 1939 - just 80 years ago. Today it remains brimming with bucket-list-worthy experiences. Traveling for work as a TV host for my show <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Travel-Time-with-Linda/dp/B079BLXS61"><strong><em>Travel Time with Linda</em></strong></a>, I get to experience many beautiful places, but Thailand is one I especially wish to experience over and over again. From mind-blowing tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins and ornate temples displaying figures of Buddha to soothing traditional Thai massage therapies, there is no shortage of magical fabulosity to encounter.<br /> <br /> </p><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105464.jpg?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105464.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105464.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /><p>Compared to other destinations around the world, it’s also a bargain lovers paradise – even for luxury travelers like myself. The Thai baht goes a very long way in Western currency which we took full advantage, enjoying a heavenly Thai massage daily at just 500 baht (12 USD!) an hour.</p><p><br /> We traveled through Thailand like a boss expertly navigated by <a href="https://www.exoticvoyages.com/"><strong>Exotic Voyages</strong> </a> covering four exotic locales. Starting our travels in <strong>Bangkok</strong> to explore its capital city of must-see historical and cultural attractions, we then became “elephant owners for a day” at <a href="https://www.pataraelephantfarm.com/"><strong>Patara Elephant Farm</strong></a> in the jungles of <strong>Chiang Mai</strong>. An absolute-must to go island-hopping Thailand’s beautiful beaches, we spent a few wondrous days each in the beach paradises <strong>Koh Samui</strong> and <strong>Phuket</strong>. All of our extraordinary journeys memorable and perfectly executed, <a href="https://www.exoticvoyages.com/thailand-tours/"><strong>Exotic Voyages</strong></a> truly knows how to treat first-class travelers and is one of the few luxury travel companies that you can trust will deliver with private and customized tours to destinations in Asia.</p><p><br /> Persuaded to spend less time in Bangkok’s bustling metropolis by friends describing it as “dirty”, I wish to dispel that rumor, as I immediately longed for more time in this gilded city upon entering the courtyard to our stunning urban sanctuary; the luxurious boutique hotel <a href="https://www.thesiamhotel.com/"><strong>The Siam.</strong></a></p><p></p><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105466.jpg?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105466.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105466.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /><p>Set on three acres of verdant frontage along the Chao Phraya River, <a href="https://www.thesiamhotel.com/the-neighbourhood"><strong>The Siam</strong></a> is 39 suites and villas located in Bangkok’s Royal Dusit District. Designed by internationally acclaimed architect Bill Bensley, the Art Deco inspired, Thai-antique-infused premier resort is reflective of its kingdom's historic name.</p><p></p><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105467.jpg?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105467.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105467.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></div><div class="article__content"></div><div class="article__content">Shown to our Siam Suite by our personal butler, as we walked through the lush atrium passing by the Opium Spa and Wellness Center, we were told discreetly that the country's princess is often a regular guest of the establishment, and they were preparing for her royal arrival later that day.</div><div class="article__content"></div><div class="article__content"><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105465.jpg?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105465.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105465.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /><p>Our spacious serene escape from “mad, bad Bangkok” was outfitted with plush Art-Deco furnishings, a super-size king bed and lofty ceiling with original turn-of-the-century artworks and antiquities.</p><p></p><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105469.jpg?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105469.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105469.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /><p>Ready to experience “Bboujee Bangkok,” as I later nicknamed it, we met our tour guide Peek of <a href="https://www.exoticvoyages.com/design-trip.html"><strong>Exotic Voyages </strong></a>in the hotel lobby early on our first and regrettably only day in Bangkok to begin a full day of tailor-made adventure temple hopping the <a href="https://www.royalgrandpalace.th/en/home"><strong>Grand Palace</strong></a>, <a href="http://www.watarun.net/"><strong>Wat Arun</strong></a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wat_Pho"><strong>Wat Pho</strong></a>, viewing the iconic reclining Buddha - and remembering to enter each building leading with the left leg as a sign of good luck. </p><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105463.jpg?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105463.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105463.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></div><div class="article__content"></div><div class="article__content">By night we rode through the city on a wild tuk-tuk ride, exploring the hustling bustling Flower Market and sampling delicious Thai street food; my personal favorite the traditional specialty dessert of mango with sticky rice.</div><div class="article__content"></div><div class="article__content"><br /> <a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105462.jpg?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105462.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105462.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /><p>Hopping a short one-hour flight from Bangkok to Thailand’s Northern Region we arrived in Chiang Mai for a serene escape shrouded in nature. I checked off another bucket list thing-to-do organized by Exotic Voyages to participate in the unique “Elephant Owner for a Day” program at <a href="https://www.pataraelephantfarm.com/"><strong>Patara Elephant Farm</strong></a>.</p><p></p><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105475.JPG?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105475.JPG?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105475.JPG?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /><p>It was incredible spending the day with these gentle giants feeding them, learning about their skin and how to bathe them and the spoken commands how to communicate and ride them. Mommy (below) and especially Baby above) were my absolute favorites to hang out with at socializing hour.</p><p></p><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105476.JPG?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105476.JPG?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105476.JPG?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /><p>Soon I was assigned my Elephant “Ploy” to “own for the day” along with trainer Ew, who taught me several key phrases: <em>dee dee</em>, which means “good girl”, <em>na lo</em> ("lie down"), <em>ma</em> (come), and most important during the riding portion, <em>how</em> (stop).</p><p></p><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105474.jpg?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105474.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105474.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /><p>Our haven of tranquility<strong>,</strong> <a href="http://www.137pillarschiangmai.com/"><strong>137 Pillars House</strong></a> was our tropical oasis in Chiang Mai. A beautiful boutique hotel where the elegance of the Orient meets modern luxury is built lovingly around “the House”; a teakwood building carefully restored to reflect its 19th-century origins.</p><p></p><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105483.JPG?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105483.JPG?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105483.JPG?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /> In Chiang Mai, by the way, the importance and wealth of a property owner was often measured by the size of their houses - built in the style of the 13th-to-18th-century Lan Na Kingdom of northern Siam - and in particular how many <em>sao</em> (pillars) the houses had - the more the pillars, the more important. <a href="https://137pillarschiangmai.com/cms/resources/news-download/137-ph-the-legend-lives-on-at-137-ph-jack-bains-bar-final.pdf"><strong>Jack Bain</strong></a><strong>,</strong> the property owner at the time, decided to count the number of pillars an impressive 137. An old map of the Wate Gate area also referred to house as “Baan 137 Sao”, which translates to 137 Pillars House - thus the name of the hotel.</div><div class="article__content"></div><div class="article__content"><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105471.jpg?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105471.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105471.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /><p>Jack Bain’s legend lives large in the old house as we ended our adventures each day enjoying handcrafted "Old World" contemporary cocktails, and on one particularly exhausting day shopping <a href="https://www.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/Thanon-Nimmanhaemin--3931"><strong>Nimman Road</strong></a>; the heart of the trendiest part of Chiang Mai, we rewarded ourselves with a delectable afternoon tea in the spirit of the Orient, with wonderful offerings of Chai Dim tea selections paired with savory and sweet delights.</p><p></p><img class="article__image ggnoads" src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105473.jpg?comp=2" alt="" border="0" /><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105484.JPG?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105484.JPG?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105484.JPG?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /><p>After exploring the rich cultural heritage of the historic <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lan_Na" target="_blank">Lan Na Kingdom</a>, we retreated in style to our expansive bedroom suite with lush garden terrace and daybed overlooking our private jungle oasis; my favorite amenity was the Victorian bath, along with indoor/outdoor shower.</p><p></p><img class="article__image ggnoads" src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105461.jpg?comp=2" alt="" border="0" /><br /><p><br /> Then a quick hop took us down to to Phuket - touted as one of the world’s most romantic destinations - where we were fortunate enough to be “VIP’s by the sea” as guests at <a href="https://www.baanbanyanvilla.com/"><strong>Baan Banyan Villa</strong></a><strong>.</strong> This heavenly rental property was truly a jaw-dropper, blending its natural environment perfectly in a contemporary-meets-traditional Asian style. It was all ours, complete with private chef, villa manager, and two housekeepers, providing us extraordinary service beyond our imagination.</p><p></p><img class="article__image ggnoads" src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105472.png?comp=2" alt="" border="0" /></div><div class="article__content"></div><div class="article__content"><br /> Upon arrival, we are greeted outside by the entire staff and offered a beautiful flower garland called a <em>malai</em>, presented by our villa manager Bood as a form of good luck and respect, followed by receiving a mind-blowing tour of <a href="https://www.baanbanyanvilla.com/photo-gallery/virtual-tours/"></a>our stunning “home away from home”.</div><div class="article__content"></div><div class="article__content"></div><div class="article__content"><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105470.jpg?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105470.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105470.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /><p></p><p>Nestled into the hillside of Kamala Bay with breathtaking ocean views surrounded by nature with uninterrupted views of the Andaman Sea, this ultra-chic villa that accommodates up to 12 guests was our luxurious landing pad for three wondrous days to enjoy. Feeling utterly spoiled in our newfound eye-opening appreciation of the luxury-villa concept, we couldn’t manage to tear ourselves away from our villa paradise.</p><p></p><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105458.jpg?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105458.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105458.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /><p>We dined like royalty on delectable, exotic dishes, with our private chef preparing scrumptious cuisine with portion sizes enough to feed a large family; blissfully lounged in the lap of luxury, enjoying the expansive infinity pool; and ended each day with a Thai massage poolside, framed and protected by Baan Banyan Villa’s majestic namesake; the gorgeous banyan tree gracing its beautiful grounds.</p><p> </p><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105459.jpg?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105459.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="800" alt="105459.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /><p>Whether you’re a romance-seeking honeymooner (and we met quite a few during our travels) or celebrating your golden anniversary, you will most certainly fall in love with Thailand, the magical “Land of Smiles” that had me at the first <em>wai kha</em> (the traditional Thai greeting, with palms pressed together as if in prayer).</p><p></p><a href="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105460.jpg?comp=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.justluxe.com/articles/galleries/105460.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="750" alt="105460.jpg?comp=2&profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></div></div><p></p><p></p></div>Welcome to my Amazon Influencer Storefront! :-)https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/welcome-to-my-amazon-influencer-storefront2019-04-01T15:27:37.000Z2019-04-01T15:27:37.000ZLinda Cooperhttps://tripatini.com/members/LindaCooper764<div><div class="date-posts"><div class="post-outer"><div class="post hentry"><h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="text-align:center;"><a href="https://shoppingismycardiotv.blogspot.com/2019/04/welcome-to-my-amazon-influencer.html"><span style="font-size:14pt;">WELCOME TO MY AMAZON INFLUENCER STOREFRONT</span></a></h3><div class="post-header" style="text-align:center;"><div class="post-header-line-1"></div></div><div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-2879123346200543065"><div dir="ltr"><div style="text-align:center;"><span> </span></div><div><div style="text-align:center;"><div><span style="font-size:14pt;"><b>Welcome to my Amazon Influencer Storefront!!</b></span><br /><span style="font-size:14pt;"><b>I'm so excited to share this new interactive shopping experience with all of you~</b></span><br /><span style="font-size:14pt;">I'm often asked to share my personal recommendations on Travel, Fashion, Beauty and Wellness Must-Haves, so when Amazon asked me to open an Influencer Storefront I thought "what a great way to share all of my favorites on one easy to access shopping site".</span><br /><br /></div></div><div style="text-align:center;"><br /><span style="font-size:14pt;">And let me tell you....I had so much fun compiling all these curated selections! :-)</span><br /><span style="font-size:14pt;">There's categories in</span><br /><span style="font-size:14pt;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/shop/lindacoopertraveltimetv">TRAVEL & FASHION MUST HAVES</a></span><br /><span style="font-size:14pt;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/shop/lindacoopertraveltimetv">BEST BEAUTY & WELLNESS FINDS</a></span><br /><span style="font-size:14pt;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/shop/lindacoopertraveltimetv">HOT HAIR PRODUCTS</a></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:14pt;">And please note- every single item listed I can personally endorse and highly recommend...many of which I've already recommended to some of you.:-)</span><br /><span><br /></span><br /><div class="separator"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/shop/lindacoopertraveltimetv"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gPPbNjRWmMM/XKIkKmepG6I/AAAAAAAAEMA/N8tw8loxsjAVgYGg_ePiYoNfT8IvBjpwQCLcBGAs/s640/AMAZON%2BSTORE%2B1.jpg" width="510" alt="AMAZON%2BSTORE%2B1.jpg" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align:center;"><span><br /></span><br /><div class="separator"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/shop/lindacoopertraveltimetv"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UR_16dX3ZP4/XKIkcyQf98I/AAAAAAAAEMI/uVtte8QfWq8pJ8WzE3hw6b6QO5x59jF_gCLcBGAs/s640/AMAZON%2BSTORE%2B2.jpg" width="429" class="align-center" alt="AMAZON%2BSTORE%2B2.jpg" /></a></div><span><br /></span><span style="font-size:14pt;">Please check it out and be sure to hit "FOLLOW" as I plan to continue to update as I discover more" MUST-HAVES".</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/shop/lindacoopertraveltimetv">https://www.amazon.com/shop/lindacoopertraveltimetv</a></span></div><div style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-size:14pt;">AND</span><br /><span style="font-size:14pt;">Happy Shopping!!</span></div></div><div style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><br />Xo,</span><br /><span style="font-size:14pt;">Linda</span></div></div></div><div class="post-footer"></div></div></div></div></div>SET YOUR DVR FOR "TRAVEL TIME WITH LINDA" -DON'T MISS THIS WEEKEND'S EPIC ADVENTURE IN ALASKAhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/set-your-dvr-for-travel-time-with-linda-don-t-miss-this-weekend-s2019-03-29T19:36:16.000Z2019-03-29T19:36:16.000ZLinda Cooperhttps://tripatini.com/members/LindaCooper764<div><hr class="standard-yellow-hr" /><div class="topic_extras"><a href="http://www.axs.tv/news-and-docs/traveltimewithlinda-ep3-alaska/" target="_blank">http://www.axs.tv/news-and-docs/traveltimewithlinda-ep3-alaska/</a></div><div class="topic_extras"></div><div class="topic_extras"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009333666,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009333666,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009333666?profile=original" /></a></div><div class="topic_extras"></div><div class="topic_extras"><br /> AXS TV NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENT <br /> SET YOUR DVR for Epic Adventures on Travel Time with Linda!<br /> <br /> Travel Time with Linda, the luxury inspirational lifestyle travel series guides viewers on immersive travel experiences of the most epic bucket-list destinations. The Adventure Alaska episode will premiere March 31st at 8am/7c!<br /> <br /> Showcasing Alaska's uncharted beauty with the exclusive luxury resort Stillpoint Lodge, Linda shows you the ideal way to experience Alaska. Adventures include Glacier Kayaking and Hiking, Tide pooling, Fly Fishing, Helicopter sight-seeing and a once in a lifetime bear viewing encounter!<br /> <br /> Travel Time with Linda is intended to take the viewer on an opulent journey that embraces everything from the pure escapism glamping in Alaska, to the lush Emerald Isle of Ireland, and the private island destination of The Maldives. The upbeat series is inspired by the three essential elements of high-class travel: glamour, luxury, and adventure, with episodes, focusing on one bucket list locale every week!<br /> <br /> Set your DVR for “Travel Time with Linda” this Sunday at 8am/7c on AXS TV!<div class="topic_attachments horizontal"><div class="message_attachments"><div class="topic_attachment col1"><div class="galleryimagecol"></div></div></div></div></div></div>Why Traveling Can Be the Key to Your Happiness, by Travel Host Linda Cooperhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/why-traveling-can-be-the-key-to-your-happiness-by-travel-host2019-03-07T16:53:21.000Z2019-03-07T16:53:21.000ZLinda Cooperhttps://tripatini.com/members/LindaCooper764<div><p style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009333666,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009333666,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009333666?profile=original" /></a></p><h2 style="font-style:inherit;">Seeking out bucket-list destinations can inspire joy and fulfillment.</h2><p style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;"><br /> What is "fulfillment?" I consider experiencing transformational self-discovery and realizing your purpose in the world as fulfillment. That feeling of “completion” when suddenly your body tingles all over in the self-realization that you’ve aligned with the universe. In your gut, you know you are exactly where you are meant to be. If you have no idea what I’m talking about, then you need to travel more.</p><p style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;"><br /> I love that travel presents an opportunity for people to put their fast-paced, “connected” world behind them and build true, deep connections with themselves by experiencing new landscapes and making life-changing memories. As the host of the luxury lifestyle show, <a href="https://247star.godaddysites.com/" style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;">Travel Time with Linda</a>, I recognize travel as the ultimate platform to create more meaning in your life happen.</p><p style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;"><br /> So when was the last time you experienced “going-to-the-nectar-of-your-being” fulfillment? </p><p style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;"><br /> For season two of <i><em style="font-weight:inherit;">Travel Time with Linda,</em></i> premiering March 17th, I wanted to seek out the most incredible “bucket-list destinations” designed to inspire and fulfill. I consciously chose to reflect the mindset of experiential traveling, highlighting the joys of experiencing new landscapes and different cultures first-hand that make you feel whole and put life into perspective. From embracing pure escapism by glamping in Alaska, to the private island playground of the Maldives, or maybe learning archery in Ireland’s "<i><em style="font-weight:inherit;"><a href="https://www.ireland.com/en-us/articles/tripideas/game-of-thrones/" style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;">Game of Thrones</a></em></i> <a href="https://www.ireland.com/en-us/articles/tripideas/game-of-thrones/" style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;">territory</a>,<i><em style="font-weight:inherit;"><a href="https://www.ireland.com/en-us/articles/tripideas/game-of-thrones/" style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;"></a></em></i>" it’s an immersive journey that provides unforgettable travel experiences.</p><p style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;"><br /> So I have a confession to make: It’s not really “a secret” that setting time for travel is the key to fulfillment. There are many campaigns, such as <a href="https://projecttimeoff.com/" style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;">Project Time Off</a>, encouraging us to better our lives through travel, and according to the U.S. Travel Association, people who use all or most of their vacation days are 79 percent happier with their personal relationships.</p><p style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;"><br /> In a recent survey from senior living community <a href="https://www.provisionliving.com/survey-reveals-whats-on-americas-bucket-list/" style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;">Provision Living</a>, out of 2,000 respondents, 95 percent say they have a bucket list of experiences or achievements they hope to accomplish while living life to the fullest. Travel is the number one bucket list category with eight destinations as the average number of locales to check off the average to-do list.</p><p style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;"><br /> Use this <a href="https://www.ustravel.org/vacation-planning-tool" style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;">vacation planning tool</a> provided by the U.S. Travel Association to get started ticking off your own bucket-list destinations in fulfilling your dreams and to live happier.</p><p style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><b><strong style="font-style:inherit;"><i><em style="font-weight:inherit;">Linda Cooper</em></i></strong></b> <i><em style="font-weight:inherit;">is an award-winning television host, producer and writer. She currently hosts the lifestyle travel series</em></i> Travel Time with Linda <i><em style="font-weight:inherit;">and is a contributor to several lifestyle and travel publications.</em></i> Travel Time with Linda <i><em style="font-weight:inherit;">featuring Bucket-List Destinations, airs weekly Sunday mornings 8 a.m. EST. Check your guide for your local cable network channel listing.</em></i></span></p><p style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;"></p></div>Red Carpet Detox-Where the Stars Go to Get in Shapehttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/red-carpet-detoxwhere-the2010-04-21T04:20:47.000Z2010-04-21T04:20:47.000ZMarjorie Hopehttps://tripatini.com/members/MarjorieHope<div><div><br /></div><div><div class="dline" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;display:block;float:left;width:630px;border-top-width:1px;border-top-style:dotted;border-top-color:rgb(150,139,125);"></div><div class="thepost" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;float:left;line-height:14px;"><div class="title" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:25px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:15px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:15px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;font-weight:normal;color:rgb(0,0,0);line-height:1.2em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:rgb(51,51,51);font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;line-height:14px;">Take Care at the We Care Spa </span></div><div class="post_info" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;line-height:20px;"></div><div class="dline" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;display:block;float:left;width:630px;border-top-width:1px;border-top-style:dotted;border-top-color:rgb(150,139,125);"></div><div class="entry" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:25px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;display:block;"><p style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;line-height:1.5em;"><a href="http://www.chictoday.com/2008/12/16/take-care-at-the-we-care-spa/wecare-4-25-07-019/" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;color:rgb(113,38,72);font-weight:bold;"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-9115" title="We Care Spa, Desert Hot Springs, California" src="http://www.chictoday.com/daily/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/wecare-4-25-07-019.jpg" alt="We Care Spa, Desert Hot Springs, California" width="273" height="410" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:10px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;border-top-width:0px;border-right-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-width:0px;max-width:630px;float:left;display:inline;" /></a>If you have ever experienced the signs of burnout, then you will have probably dreamt of escaping the stresses of everyday life and heading to a hideaway to unwind.</p><p style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;line-height:1.5em;">Such as the private oasis that is the <a href="http://www.wecarespa.com/" target="_blank" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;color:rgb(113,38,72);font-weight:bold;"><strong style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;">We Care Spa</strong></a> in Desert Hot Springs, California. This is one of the best-kept secrets of the Hollywood starlets, rock stars and power players who come here to experience the intensive cleansing and personal touch of this healing retreat. We Care really <em style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;">does</em> care about your health, with its specialized protocol of juice fasting and practical classes on healthful diet, which ensure that you are also educated on the benefits of detoxing, so that the results are life changing and long term. We Care is also a spiritual retreat that will soothe both your mind and soul.</p><p style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;line-height:1.5em;">Argentinean-born Susana Lombardi is the founder of this exceptional healing retreat and the embodiment of the healthy lifestyle. ‘Once your body is cleansed, your mind defogs and you can think clearly. Then you can make more appropriate decisions for yourself…You can see and feel things from a different level. When you have the energy to accomplish change in your own life first, then you can help change the world.’</p><p style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;line-height:1.5em;">When I asked Susanna what motivated her to open up this healing center, she replied that it was because she saw ’so many people experiencing unnecessary pain and heartache because they were uninformed about health and self-care.’</p><p style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;line-height:1.5em;">Susana’s epiphany was discovered whilst on her own spiritual retreat many years ago with Elizabeth Clare Prophet, a world renowned spiritual leader and mystic. This is where Susana learned to meditate, and received a clear message in her mind to go back to Palm Springs and enlighten others on the benefits of these practices.</p><p style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;line-height:1.5em;">‘After my divorce and in my search for my personal healing and peace, I began researching holistic health, and studying and teaching yoga. Following fasting, I noticed that my personality totally changed, and it was from my personal experience that I realized that I needed to share this with others.’ Her desire is essentially to help people turn their lives around. ‘You come to the We Care Spa to change your life for the better.’</p><p style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;line-height:1.5em;">If you love pampering, this is also the place to get some unique whole body care and signature treatments in the desert. My favourite is the 120 minute We Care Euphoria. It starts out with a sumptuous Rainforest, Green Tea, and Vitamin B mineral bath and a lemongrass exfoliation. The next step is an algae and Sedona clay body wrap that stimulates your lymphatic system and enhances the cleansing and nourishing of your skin. Your scalp is massaged with aromatherapy oils, which is followed by a body massage that leaves you in pure state of bliss.</p><p style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;line-height:1.5em;">While you are there, you may run into <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alanis_Morrissette" target="_blank" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;color:rgb(113,38,72);font-weight:bold;"><strong style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;">Alanis Morrissette</strong></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linda_Evangelista" target="_blank" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;color:rgb(113,38,72);font-weight:bold;"><strong style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;">Linda Evangelista</strong></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christy_Turlington" target="_blank" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;color:rgb(113,38,72);font-weight:bold;"><strong style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;">Christy Turlington</strong></a>, or <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matt_damon" target="_blank" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;color:rgb(113,38,72);font-weight:bold;"><strong style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;">Matt Damon</strong></a>. However the proper etiquette is to allow them their space and privacy. Remember, they are there–just like you–to escape the maddening crowd, so asking for a picture or an autograph should most definitely not be on your agenda.</p><p style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;line-height:1.5em;">So if you are ready to change your life, then check-in to the We Care Spa today.</p><p style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;line-height:1.5em;"><em style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;">Image courtesy of We Care Spa</em></p></div><br style="font-family:georgia;font-size:11px;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;text-decoration:none;white-space:normal;" /></div></div></div>Wild West Wander Part Ihttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/wild-west-wander-part-i2011-11-08T00:00:00.000Z2011-11-08T00:00:00.000ZLinda Ballouhttps://tripatini.com/members/LindaBallou<div><p><a href="http://http//nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/adventure-travel/wild-west-wander-in-the-san-juan-mountains-of-colorado-part-i/" target="_blank">Wild West Wander Part I</a></p><p><a href="http://http//nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/adventure-travel/wild-west-wander-part-ii/" target="_blank">Wild West Wander Part II</a></p><p> </p><p>Join me on a whirlwind romp around arguable the most scenic byway in America-The San Juan Skyway in Southwest Colorado. I show you out to get our of your car and into the splendid scenery in a hurry!<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008665282,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008665282,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008665282?profile=original" /></a></p></div>Lost Angel Walkabout selected for top travel writing in 2010https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/lost-angel-walkabout-selected2011-01-05T04:23:03.000Z2011-01-05T04:23:03.000ZLinda Ballouhttps://tripatini.com/members/LindaBallou<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008563499,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="366" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008563499,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-right" alt="9008563499?profile=original" /></a>Lost Angel Walkabout-One Traveler's Tales was placed on the list of the top travel writing in 2010 by Ellen Barone, adventure journalist and photographer. It excites me to be included on a list with such travel writing luminaries as Tim Cahill and Rolf Potts, both authors I emulate and admire.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://sanctuare.tumblr.com/thelist"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3" color="#800080">http://sanctuare.tumblr.com/thelist</font></a></p><p>Check it out.</p><p>I am going to read every book on the list.</p><p>Happy New Year</p><p>Linda</p></div>