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John Staggs

Los Angeles, CA

Austria Travel Agent Expert

Embark on an awe-inspiring journey to Austria, the land of illustrious composers, breathtaking alpine vistas, and architectural marvels that span centuries. This central European gem offers a symphony of experiences that resonate with history buff...
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Embark on an awe-inspiring journey to Austria, the land of illustrious composers, breathtaking alpine vistas, and architectural marvels that span centuries. This central European gem offers a symphony of experiences that resonate with history buffs, nature lovers, and cultural aficionados alike.Vienna: A Dance with History and CultureVienna, the capital city, stands as a proud testament to Austria’s imperial past and resplendent arts scene. Roam the grandiose halls of Schönbrunn Palace, embrace the opulence at Belvedere Palace, or capture the intricate details of St. Stephen's Cathedral. Music enthusiasts can revel in the melodies of the Vienna State Opera, where conducting greats have etched musical history.Salzburg: The Hills are Alive with CharmIn Salzburg, Mozart's birthplace, baroque architecture lines the streets and the air is filled with the echoes of The Sound of Music. Traverse the Hohensalzburg Fortress for a panoramic view of the city, or stroll through the Mirabell Gardens, capturing snapshots of the opulent flora and whimsical sculptures.Innsbruck: Winter Sports and Imperial EleganceInnsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, seduces with its unique blend of snow-capped mountains and glorious imperial structures. In winter, it transforms into a haven for skiers and snowboarders. Queen Maria Theresa's influence beams from the Golden Roof and Hofburg Palace, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the Habsburg dynasty.The Austrian Alps: Nature’s MasterpieceNo trip to Austria is complete without experiencing the sheer magnificence of the Austrian Alps. Take a soul-stirring hike in Zell am See, embark on a scenic drive through Grossglockner High Alpine Road, or relish the pristine waters of Lake Hallstatt. The alps are more than just a geographical feature—they are the canvas of Austria's incredible natural beauty.Culinary Delights & Delicate WinesAustrian cuisine boasts heartwarming dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, Apfelstrudel, and Sachertorte. Couple these with a glass of Grüner Veltliner or Blaufränkisch wine, celebrating the flavors that make Austrian gastronomy a feast for the senses.Enrich Your Austrian Adventure With me, dive deeper into Austria’s offerings—from attending the Salzburg Festival to exploring the lush vineyards of Styria. Let us create a customized itinerary that reflects Austria’s signature blend of traditional charm and modern elegance.

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Tahiti Travel Agent Expert

The word evokes visions of an earthly paradise. Actually, there are 118 islands that encompass French Polynesia, better known as The Islands of Tahiti. These are some of the most popular and accessible islands for travellers. 

Tahiti is the largest and most populated island and is the starting point for everyone. International flights land at Faa'a Airport in the capital city of Papeete. Upon arrival, visitors receive a typical Tahitian display of hospitality - a memorable welcome with fragrant tiare flowers and Tahitian music.Tahiti is a figure-eight-shaped island with a larger part: Tahiti Nui (which means big) and Tahiti Iti (little). With lush green peaks reaching more than 7,300 feet, its scenery is dramatic. Cascading waterfalls and cool pools in the jungle-like interior provide a striking contrast to the black sand beaches and turquoise lagoons of the island's perimeter. A circle island tour (about 70 miles) is a great way to get acquainted, with highlights at the Tahiti and Her Islands Museum, the Paul Gauguin Art Museum and Botanical Gardens, and the Marae Arahurahu (an ancient Tahitian outdoor temple). In the center of town, the Marche is not to be missed. Abundant with tropical fruits and vegetables and fresh fish from the lagoon, this indoor market has an upstairs with Tahitian crafts and the largest selection of colourful pareus (sarongs) anywhere.

Moorea was the inspiration for James Michener's mythical island of Bali Hai, and the locale for many motion pictures, including Mutiny on the Bounty and Love Affair. It is just 11 miles across the Sea of the Moon from Tahiti, but a world away. To fully appreciate the drama of this heart-shaped island, it is best viewed from atop Belvedere lookout, which affords breathtaking views of Moorea's twin bays, Cooks, and Opunohu. For those limited on time, it's easy to take a 25-minute catamaran ride from Tahiti for a day trip.For many, a couple of days exploring Moorea's treasures and meeting some of its 8,000 residents pass too quickly.

Bora Bora is called the most beautiful island in the world, and in many ways, it's hard to argue. This tiny island - just 18 miles in circumference - is encircled by a protective necklace of coral. Inside this lagoon, colours reach a spectrum of indescribable turquoise, lapis, and aquamarine. Breathtaking lush mountains provide a dramatic background.Arriving by airplane provides a unique experience, landing on the airstrip that was built by U.S. troops during World War II. The runway is on a motu (small islet) and visitors must go by boat to the main island. It's no surprise that most of the island's activities center around the spectacular lagoon.A shark feeding excursion allows visitors to be in the water with hungry reef sharks as they're being fed by guides. There's a lagoonarium, a marine exhibit in the lagoon where the adventurous can swim with stingrays, huge sea turtles, and reef sharks. For a half-day journey of exploration, nothing beats a jeep tour through the interior of this wondrous island. Bora Bora is what dreams are made of. It's home to world-class resorts and jet-setting celebrities who can become anonymous. 

Rangiroa, a one-hour flight from Tahiti, is part of the Tuamotu Archipelago and is the world's second-largest atoll. From the air, it appears that a large pearl necklace was gently placed on the water. This ring of low land created an unbelievable lagoon of deep turquoise and lapis blue. Because there's no island runoff, the visibility in the lagoon is over 150 feet and a constant 80 degrees.The famous Tiputa Pass, which provides an opening to the ocean, is rich with sea life. It's known as one of the world's greatest shark dives, and those who "shoot the pass" find themselves in the deep blue with literally hundreds of gray, black-tip, white-tip, lemon, and nurse sharks.Non-divers can try some world-class snorkeling and see schools of dolphins that gather in the pass. For the true adventurer, a two-hour boat ride across the lagoon leads to the Kia Ora Sauvage, a luxurious way to rough it. There's no electricity at this remote property, but offers spectacular scenery and complete solitude. 

 Contact me and I will help you plan an amazing vacation to this area that you will never forget!