Read on about Ann and Geoffrey’s most memorable experiences, and why they hold them close to their hearts.

ANN BECKER

Safari in Tanzania with Micato Safari

Experiencing a luxury safari in Africa was life-changing! We had the privilege of traveling to Africa with Micato Safaris in October 2022 - peak season due to the dry conditions encouraging the animals to gather at water sources.

The whole experience was amazing, as Tanzania's Serengeti, the southern half of the Serengeti-Maasai Mara ecosystem, is the undisputed capital of the world's animal kingdom. The Serengeti is impressive in its enormity, almost infinite skies, and long, golden uninterrupted stretches of streams. The views from every property exposed me to a vast world that I knew little about. Staying in a tented treehouse with the elephants down below was unlike anything I could have imagined. The most amazing day was waking before dawn to take a hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti. It was so peaceful and serene to see the elephants and giraffes run through the desert.

Surprise Engagement at Blackberry Farm

One of America's greatest hidden treasures, Blackberry Farm is nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. My most recent trip there was definitely my most memorable. Although the breathtaking scenery, decadent cuisine, and countless activities and adventures always leave a lasting impression, it was the surprise proposal that made this trip one for the books! My future son-in-law arranged a surprise marriage proposal for our youngest daughter. The staff, who has become like family, helped make the day magical. They provided champagne on the boat dock, and we celebrated with family in an intimate outdoor farm-to-table meal.

Peaceful Retreat at La Reserve Paris

Paris is one of my favorite cities in the world! One of my most memorable stays was a week at the extremely intimate La Réserve Paris. The property is just off the Champs‑Elysées and overlooks the Eiffel Tower, the Pantheon, the Grand Palais, and the Concorde obelisk. The hotel allows for a unique and intensely personal experience. Behind the infamous red front door, the atmosphere is that of a private urban mansion with impeccable staff. After completing the Paris Marathon, my husband and daughter recovered beautifully at our elegant early 20th-century private reprieve with Eiffel Tower views.

GEOFFREY RAVOIRE

One night in Bangkok

One night in Bangkok, we took the private Siam Hotel wooden river boat from the hotel pier to the heart of town. Gliding on the water, one marvels at the temples, pagodas, and skyscrapers. We arrived at a dock near the bustling flower market. We walked through it, overwhelmed with vibrant colors and powerful fragrances. On the other side, a small square where locals attended a Thai opera public play. We watched for a moment before continuing into the small alleyways of the old town, discovering modest storefronts and homesteads. We entered one of them, with the help of our local guide. An elderly couple showed us their daily work and we sat down in their shop/living room for a drink. Just like any other grandmother, all this charming old lady wanted to do was tell us stories from her past and feed us more delicacies. It was oh so simple but oh so genuine.

 Swimming in ancient lava fields

When I stayed on the beautiful island of Salina (Aeolian Island, Sicily), we chartered a boat for the day to go out to other islands. First stop, Stromboli. We dove from the boat countless times, enjoying crystal clear water in a cove created by a volcanic eruption. The bottom of the ocean, made of basaltic pillows, resembled a mosaic. Above us, Stromboli was spitting its usual - and mostly harmless - bit of fiery lava. Back on dry land at night, we could watch the same Stromboli gently erupt with orange fire in the dark night. Surreal. 

A Norwegian gourmet hike

I keep fond memories of my stay in the remote Norwegian fjord by Forde. Protected from herds of tourists by mountains, windy roads, and impenetrable waterways, the tiny valley where Amot sits is quiet. One beautiful afternoon, we hiked through the forest and ended up by a clean river. The river here had two branches, with a sandy island in the middle. Horses that belonged to a local farm were peacefully grazing. That is, until just like us, they saw our Chef who had prepared a gourmet pit stop for us. Champagne, fruit, bundt cake and old China. It was perfect. Meanwhile wild salmon were swimming upstream.