leah travel and adventure

Travel Changes You

Our approach.

We design journeys for people who seek a greater appreciation of the world. A connection to local cultures. An authentic experience.

We start by asking the right questions to understand your priorities and preferences. Next, we use first-hand experience to expertly plan every detail of your itinerary. Thanks to trusted global relationships and affiliations, we can VIP you at thousands of fine hotels, exotic resorts and luxury cruise lines. We ensure peace of mind while bringing the best value for your time and money. The world awaits and you deserve everlasting memories.

Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic escape, family vacation, reunion, girls’ weekend, or solo adventure, let us help you journey on.

Every trip we design is tailor made for you.

FAMILY + GROUPS

Grow together, share forever memories, and embrace how you and your loved ones see the world.

Whether you’re taking your first or your fifth safari, the epic experience will change you forever.

When love is in the air for a destination wedding or exotic honeymoon, let us plan the ways to capture your heart.

Catch the thrill of exploring an ancient forest, climbing a snow-capped peak, or trekking along desert dunes.

Restore balance to mind, body, and spirit while venturing to some of the most inspiring places in the world.

URBAN ESCAPES

Feel the heartbeat of a city as you discover, dine, and shop like a local in hotspots around the globe.

From private yachts on the Mediterranean to expedition cruising, we’ll find the right fit for your adventure at sea.

Discover local artisans, sample exotic eats, and connect with the tastemakers of any culture. It’s our specialty.

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

When giving back is important to your travels, we work with trusted partners who specialize in sustainable experiences.

TESTIMONIALS

“Leah is my go-to for all my travel needs. Not only does she accommodate all my requests, but her attention to detail is beyond amazing. She designs such incredible vacations and makes traveling so easy and memorable!” - Jennifer P.

“Whether planning a polar bear expedition, a suite escape to London (complete with butler), or a private trek through Bolivia and Chile, Leah knows her clients and how to create unforgettable experiences.  She goes the extra mile to make sure everything is amazing. I can’t recommend her highly enough!” - Deb K.

“Leah has changed the way my family and I travel. She just asks a few questions about what we are looking for and puts together a custom and fabulous itinerary every time. She accommodates our every need, even surprising us with a few treats when we arrive! We cherish the fun trips she plans.” - Gina M.

“Leah has been a godsend! Her recommendations have given us travel experiences we never could have imagined. She works tirelessly to make sure everything we need is handled professionally, correctly, and in a timely manner. Her knowledge and expertise are of great value.” - Laura E.

“My wife and I won’t trust anyone else with our travel. Leah is always available to us, even while she is checking out new amazing destinations. For our bucket list trip to Iceland, she had us glacier hiking, snorkeling between two tectonic plates, and delving into an inactive volcano, all with first class service!” - Bianca H.

“Leah’s incredible taste, amazing contacts and commitment to excellence gave us a trip of a lifetime. We breezed through destinations, receiving A+ service wherever we went. And when a work emergency required extra international travel, Leah jumped into action to handle everything.” - Carolyn J.

ABOUT LEAH WINCK

Founder Leah Winck grew up with a passion for travel and culture. Her international parents inspired her lifelong curiosity to see the world. Today the world is her office. Whether discovering a new flamenco bar in Seville, helicoptering over New Zealand’s Milford Sound, or exploring Chile’s glacial Maipo Valley on horseback, she is always seeking the hidden gems of a destination to inspire clients. Her mission is to provide first-hand knowledge of where to stay and what to do to create unforgettable journeys.

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Travel Dr. Leah

A Travel & Mental Wellness Lifestyle Blog: Fulfilling your travel wanderlust & strengthening your mental wellness

I have a place for you!

If you have a wanderlust for travel, are always dream about your next adventure, and look to organize your travels so you include everything, you have come to the right place.  If you love life and think life is beautiful, and that there are so many places to go to learn, to chill, to celebrate, to improve your own life and the lives of others, then you are in the right place.  If you are like me, a person who plans, and organizes trips for others, you are welcomed here.  If you want to include  (more) mental wellness practices in your busy lives, and to calm a busy mind, then you are in the right place. If you are curious about or are a vegan like me and want to explore recipes, vegan eating  while on vacation, you have finally made it to the right place. 

As a psychologist, for decades, I love helping others to live their best lives. I was raised with the philosophy of to whom much is given much is expected and required.  I have lived my life accordingly, and I have found ways to travel and serve the community around the globe.  I value the use of tried and true (and researched based) interventions and practices like mindfulness practices, yoga and meditation, so much so I have been presenting on the topic, teaching others, and narrated a book to allow others to practice as well.  I have traveled to about 33 countries over 3 continents, just half-way, sort of to my goal to visit all 7 continents soon. 

My parents loved cruising when I grew up, so we visited a lot of countries in that way. We cruised with family and friends yearly, so my mother’s group vacation planning rubbed off on me. Cruises were like an adventure for me as a child, introducing me to cultures and experiences that ignited my soul.  I definitely love to cruise now! My love for travel started at the very beginning of my life and it grew as I did.  Not once, but twice in my life I started a travel agency, since I was always creating itineraries, guides, and planning trips from group ski trips to tropical paradise, to amazon jungle adventures, to family amusement park vacations….so many amusement park  vacations all over the world!  A few decades later, my entrepreneurial spirit peeked out again and I launched Tranquility Hill Travel agency, because planning and enjoying a vacation should be tranquil. The agency focuses on group travel and bucket list experiences, some call it luxury, I call it a necessity. When you are passionate about something you only want to share it more with others.   Fortunately, my husband and occasionally my adult children are game, and come along for the ride. 

Join me and lets’ form a “tribe as I preview luxury vacations, provide tips for traveling and how-to and where-to travel guide, share vegan options when traveling, vegan recipes, and teach, and share some practices, tips and information about mental wellness, and how to live your most tranquil life!

Sending peace & tranquility and shining bright light,

About Go Travel with Leah

Hello there!  My name is Leah Holt and  I love holidays with a focus on food and adventure.  I never like to sit still for too long, afraid I might miss out on exploring a destination.

I am the mother of 3 great teenagers and married for 23 short years!  My absolute favorite color is teal and I enjoy decorating my living space with bicycles (because they remind me of going somewhere)!

If I had to name my top 2 favorite countries to explore so far, it would be Ireland and China, hands down.  Two totally different experiences but so worth it!

If you’ve never worked with a Travel Advisor before, you may be wondering what all the hype is about.  Let me tell you a little more.

As agents, we have the expertise and experience to make your vacation seamless.  When you work with me you can breathe easy knowing all of your travel needs are being taken care of without any stress and I’ll be there every step of the way!

If you are looking for a passionate Travel Advisor to help you with your travel plans, give me a call or send me a message!

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Travel Photography

"Though we travel the world over to find the beautiful, we must carry it with us or we find it not." - Henry David Thoreau

Hello! My name is Leah and I love to go on adventures. I was fortunate to be born into a family that was always on the road exploring new, beautiful places. My father works in national parks and as a result of that I grew up in some incredible destinations like Yellowstone National Park. The rest of my family lives all across the globe - from Costa Rica (pura vida!) to Scotland (did you know their national animal is the unicorn?).

A few years ago I got the idea to combine my love of photography and travel and since then I've had the pleasure of working with resorts and other tourism-based companies all over the world.  

Drive a luxury car while you're in Barcelona!

Hot Tub in a Treehouse. Need I say more?

A day of fun on the island!

Drive the Hummingbird Highway while in Belize!

Explore the Mayan ruins of Xunantunich...

A luxury spa in Placencia! 

Luxury residences and resort in Belize!

Absolute luxury in Belize

I got to sleep in a bubble!

Horseback riding and quaint cottages....

Amazing design and colors!

You definitely need a 4x4 to explore beautiful Iceland!

A beautiful Bed and Breakfast in North Carolina...

Flip Flops And Adventure Stories With Leah Thrapp

August 28, 2020

A fun interview with Leah Thrapp, a luxury travel planner who manages to juggle her business with being a mother of two young children and a wife to a fellow wanderlust inclined man. She shares some of her flipflop adventure stories about Ireland, Scotland, and Italy on the latest podcast.

Flip Flops And Adventure Stories With Leah Thrapp:

Growing up in Austin, Leah always had the need to travel, and unlike most people I’ve met, it wasn’t really something inherited from her parents. Recognizing her need to travel, she focused on finding work that could further her travels and basically worked in order to earn travel money.

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Highlights of the podcast include:

• Family life and wanderlust at a young age.
• Why flip flops and adventures?
• Her first proper introduction in the form of being an au-pair to two young children.
• Finding herself on a plane with said children on her way to Spain.
• Focusing on jobs that would allow travel, or quitting if she had no choice.
• Her love for off the beaten track adventure and starting a blog to document her various journeys.
• Her readers wanting the same kind of adventures, eventually leading to her new business.
• What makes her curated luxury travel adventures different from others in a crowded field.
• Food, and wine as an important component of any travel and to help capture the essence of a place.
• Some of the highlights of travel in Tuscany and a few other places.
• Out of the ordinary activities included in some of her trips.
• Incorporating the children into her travels with ease despite the fact that she had been told that it would be a mission impossible.
• How the coronavirus has had a devastating effect on her business.
• Canceled plans, postponed research trips with no end in sight.
• Her plight and others in the same industry.
• Anger at the uncertainty of it all, and if/when it all comes to an end.
• How she is coping with it all.

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Listen to the flip flops and adventure stories podcast here, or on any listening platform like Spotify or iTunes, and please subscribe.

Her flip flops website

On Instagram

Other podcasts of interest:

Life in Canada

Algarve Portugal living

Meet the hostess Kemkem

Other podcast stories

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Travel Worries these days:

Travel is most likely forever changed for everyone. I see people still fighting it, trying for a sense of normalcy (like coronavirus won’t stop me from traveling), but it’s clear that it’s grasping at straws. Travel planning now includes questions that were unheard of before March of this year. Real legitimate questions like:

• Will l be able to enter when l arrive at my destination? Is your point of origin banned from entry, for example, a visitor from the U.S not being allowed into Spain for instance? Even if you have a layover only, it might be forbidden.
• Will l have to self-quarantine once there? Imagine having a two week holiday and having to spend those two weeks in a hotel room. Even in the U.S., it differs from state to state.
• Will l have to pay to quarantine? Countries such as Australia and Cambodia require a $3,000 deposit fee upfront for the quarantine.
• Do you need a negative COVID test to travel, and what is the window of the test?
• Social distancing measures in the new place. Masks?

These are just some of the initial worries. The biggest one is probably the chances of the borders closing while you’re on holiday. All these just make me worry, and would prevent me from having a restful holiday. All we can do right now is just hope for the best.

Do you have any travel plans, including local ones? A staycation of sorts? How are you handling your wanderlust?

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6 thoughts on “flip flops and adventure stories with leah thrapp”.

Another fun podcast! I can relate to the days when I worked and then I traveled. And if I couldn’t get time off, I quit and found another job when I got home! That just seems normal to me. I went to travel school and worked in the travel industry for about 5 or 6 years until I decided it was time to find a better paying job. There are lots of perks to people in the travel industry, free and reduced, but the workers are so low paid that even if you can fly to London on your free pass, you probably don’t have enough money to do anything once you get there. And the travel perks were so much better in the early nineties. Once computers and printers became normal in households, anyone could create business cards using a fictional (or real) travel company.

These days, I’m really glad not to be working in the travel industry anymore because it’s been so hard hit.

The tours Leah leads sounds like fun, but nothing at all about them on the website?! There are a lot of people who’d be interested in smaller tours like that where all the arrangements are made and they’re experiencing wonderful places off the beaten track that they might not have discovered on their own.

I keep hoping they’ll open the land border soon between Canada and the US for travelers/daytrippers without quarantines. Somehow I don’t think it’s going to happen this year, but I wonder if it might reopen in time for Christmas just as a good political move on the parts of both countries. Trump has been OK for months about reopening the border – yay! Canada is the problem and wants the border to stay closed until coronavirus more under control. Saw on the news today that Canadians can travel to Portugal without quarantining, so at least not spending money and time inside a hotel room for 2 weeks. But they still get hit with a quarantine when they come home. People just don’t have a month or more they can take off work, especially when 2 to 4 weeks is quarantine either at their destination country or when they come home.

I love that you have so many fond memories of past travel. Especially nowadays when everyone is basically locked in. It makes me thankful that we took the opportunity to travel extensively, and so l don’t feel like l am missing out. I know about the low pay in that industry, it sucks doesn’t it? Even with the free perks, I think l would much prefer a higher pay. I always laugh and say the internet is good for so many things, but it basically destroyed so many other things, like travel agents, mom and pop shops and photography (Fede felt it as every tom dick, and harry bought a camera and became a “pro”).

Perhaps there is a different website for her tours. I always use the main one, but it’s not unusual for people to have more than one or four, or even more l find. Insane l know. I can barely handle one, worth getting in touch with her to inquire. I love smaller tours myself. More intimate, and less hassle.

Too much work to travel plan right now. So many sudden changes, and it’s a moving target as far as the rules and regulations. I can’t help but think we might be headed for another lockdown despite what they say. The good news is the majority of the infected seem to be asymptomatic, so that is not so bad. The rate of hospitalization has crept up to 5% from 2, so that is not so good. Oy vai, we will be in for the flim-flam for a very long time. I also wonder if your borders might open in time for the holidays. Everything else has been political, so why not that? :-(.

Great podcast, as always! I guess for me too it was reading that made me love travel (read a ton of Jules Verne in my youth and dreamed about exploring the world). Never really thought about this until hearing Leah mention it. I’ve also been a fan of these private, organized tours led by somebody who really knows the area and not a generic travel agency that cares only about the numbers. This is something that I might do sometime in the future, when the waters are calmer 🙂

Regarding travel and the questions that you now ask (and you didn’t before), I always ask myself: would I feel comfortable during my holiday or trip or whatever? Right now, the answer is “no”. Too much stress and what ifs to really enjoy my time. So I am personally in the group that will wait a bit longer before starting to travel again – and probably even more so before hopping into a plane or train or bus. I never really enjoyed driving but… things change :))

I have to admit to never having read anything by Jules Verne but l have seen a variety of around the world in 80 days interpretations. I can completely understand why it would spur a sense of wanderlust. I also enjoy private tours and think it’s the way to go when you travel. I think even for the guides. You always see the constant waiting for the stragglers when you observe those groups. The smaller ones are so much more fun and give you a chance to meet people.

I am completely with you on the travel front. Not worth it for me right now, as the worry would be too much, especially with the quarantines. Even in the Valencia region, there are some counties that have been shut as of yesterday, and people can’t move in or out because they had a big spike in numbers. We are in for a really long haul l think with this one. Thank god the numbers haven’t reached the Spanish flu territory, but it is worrisome all the same. We can only do our best, and hope everyone else does their part.

Another terrific podcast with a super interesting and inspiring guest. I’d love to join one of Leah’s tours as I know how much work and time it take to research places, find adventures (especially ones that offer something different), book rooms, arrange flights and tickets, etc. I can’t imagine doing it for a group of people and trying to find things that will please the majority!! I ran across a t-shirt with a saying I know you’ll appreciate: “Wine (noun). The glue holding this 2020 shitshow together” and know that you can totally relate to this. 2020 has been a year of cancelled hopes, dreams and plans and, knock on wood, we’re the lucky ones who have continued health and a reliable income. It’s hard to envision travel anytime soon but I’m hoping to explore more of Portugal with a trip up north in October and another over the winter. That way, wherever I am, I’m just a short trip from home. Still thinking about and dreaming of Italy and Croatia … we’ll see if 2021 is the year! Keep healthy and hugs to both you and Fede!

Thanks Anita. Yes, it is a real chore coming up with ideas for travel for more than a couple of people and then executing it all to perfection. Sometimes it’s nice to sit back and let someone do all the work and you only have to show up. The trips sound like fun.

I certainly find the t-shirt humorous! Hahaha! It’s been such a weird, time-warp kind of year, and l am afraid it might just get weirder. I never forget to count my blessings either, there are so many people hurting right now and all over the world. Seems no one is immune, be it financial, or health-wise. I can’t picture travel for myself anytime soon.

Your plans sound nice, short trips it will be for us too when we finally muster up the courage. I am definitely still dreaming of Italy. Let’s hope the gods allow it in the near future. Stay safe, have fun, and hopefully will see you soon. Hugs! :-).

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Adventures With Leah

travel better, cheaper, and smarter so you can explore the world on a budget

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Like Jewels, Will Travel

Gem- and jewelry-themed tours and excursions mix treasure hunting with adventure and cultural experiences.

Text by Amy Elliott

Illustrations by Ben Pearce

Last year, when Roberto Ruiz visited the Carbonera mine in Querétaro, Mexico, he cracked open a grapefruit-size piece of rhyolite with a hammer. When he looked inside, “it was like finding a fire fossil,” he said during a recent phone interview from his home in San Antonio. Inside was an orangey-red fire opal that he likened to a flame, forever preserved in the sphere of igneous rock.

Mr. Ruiz and his wife, Erika Rodriguez, are among the few people who have traveled to the mine, a desolate spot located in Carbonera in central Mexico, a destination that’s well off the beaten tourist track, some 20 miles from the nearest city. Their journey was especially unusual as neither is in the gem trade: Mr. Ruiz is a corporate attorney and Ms. Rodriguez works in digital marketing.

But they are among a growing number of travel enthusiasts seeking unusual, hyper-specific vacation experiences that offer an insider’s view of the gem and fine jewelry industries, and a number of businesses are responding to the demand accordingly.

Mr. Ruiz said the idea of visiting an opal mine was appealing for a few reasons, starting with his lifelong fascination with gemstones and minerals.

The mine’s remote location in the rocky, semidesert wilderness (where snakes and scorpions are not uncommon) was also compelling: Ms. Rodriguez said she and her husband are usually inclined toward travel focused on outdoor adventure, from hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru to rock climbing around Krabi in southern Thailand.

“We had also gone to the American Museum of Natural History in New York and saw an opal from Querétaro, and Roberto is originally from there,” Ms. Rodriguez said. “We found out something that we didn’t even know existed and we became interested in learning how the opals are extracted — and meeting the people who were doing it.”

But a traveler cannot just show up at a mine and start digging. It requires a guide, someone well connected to the mine owners and well versed in what to expect: dirt and dust; lots of walking; the occasional explosion at the site; and, at times, security risks. Given their knowledge of the terrain, guides keep an ear to the ground for rumblings — both geological and political — and respond accordingly to keep travelers safe.

The couple arranged the trip through Carlos Torres, an acquaintance from New York who is a gemologist, commercial gem buyer and consultant. He had piqued their interest with tales of the mines he has visited, particularly on trips with his business partner, Laurent Massi, who has taught gemology at several institutions and now is the owner of the Neogem consultancy in Paris.

Mr. Torres and Dr. Massi have organized gem mining trips not just to Mexico, but also to destinations such as Colombia (for emeralds), Thailand (for rubies) and Brazil (for Paraiba tourmaline). Last fall, they started the Gem Odyssey , a business to structure similar gem-hunting expeditions as all-inclusive travel packages that start, on average, at about $3,700 per person, not including airfare.

Gem Odyssey itineraries are tailored to jewelry enthusiasts who are not industry professionals — offering plenty of education and explanation, while avoiding “inside baseball”-type industry talk. The trips typically span nine days, with at least three of those days spent at a mine site.

The founders say the schedules can be customized to include experiences such as tequila tastings or visits to local artisan markets; any given trip might include a mix of accommodations, with upscale hotels near the airports or central cities and more rustic facilities in the mining areas.

But his clients don’t come for the niceties, Mr. Torres said. “They like the idea of getting mud on their hands.”

And, he added, after receiving instruction in mining safety, they become part of the process: “They see the drilling, how the dynamite is used for extraction, and they get to experience breaking the stones and checking for gems.”

Dr. Massi, who also was on the phone interview with Mr. Torres, said that “witnessing the birth of a gemstone is not something anyone can do and see at home in their garden. We try to give them an experience, and see a part of a country, that they could not get access to on their own.”

Digging For Tourmalines

Perhaps it is not surprising, but gem- and jewelry-themed travel is a trend especially relevant to the tastes and inclinations of high-net worth individuals — people with at least $1 million in liquid assets — according to Milton Pedraza, the founder and chief executive of the Luxury Institute, a consultancy specializing in luxury consumer research with offices in New York and Florida.

Mr. Pedraza said the sophisticated traveler has “seen it, done it.” So, he said, when someone has the opportunity to access an exclusive experience in a far-flung part of the world, “it makes your life more unique,” he said,“and everybody wants to be seen as authentic, unique and genuine.”

The designer Pamela Hastry is connected to such clients through Morphée , her jewelry company in Paris, and the lectures that she regularly hosts in and around her hometown, Brussels. She also conducts private tours of Place Vendôme in Paris, a center for high jewelry, and of the Diamantkwartier, or Diamond Quarter, in Antwerp, Belgium, one of the jewelry industry’s oldest and most prominent diamond centers.

In November Ms. Hastry is planning to take a group to Namibia, in southern Africa, to discover the country’s beautiful tourmalines (while also making a stop at a mine that produces chrysocolla, an unusual blue-green type of chalcedony). Organized with Destination, a luxury travel agency in Belgium, the 10-day itinerary includes at least one night in a tent near one of the tourmaline mines (€8,986 or about $9,711, without airfare).

“You’re going to live — and dig — like a miner for a day and a half,” Ms. Hastry said.

Damien Van Bellinghen, the founder of Le Club des Etoiles, a business and social club in Brussels, has one of the 15 reservations for the Namibia trip. Mr. Van Bellinghen, who went on one of Ms. Hastry’s private tours of Antwerp’s diamond district, wrote in an email that he looked forward to discovering how gems are extracted, getting to know the miners and exploring the country through the lens of a jeweler.

“The types of trips that Pamela Hastry organizes plunge straight into the heart of where the most marvelous jewels come from,” he wrote. “Such visits can only be made if you are accompanied by someone who has ‘insider’ knowledge and, above all, who has the trust of the local people. And we’re lucky enough to enjoy it.”

The Royal Treatment

If you do find a gem during one of these mine trips, can it be used in a piece of jewelry? Both Ms. Hastry and Mr. Torres of the Gem Odyssey said that they could facilitate a purchase, although they noted that the item purchased would have to comply with international import/export regulations.

But some gem-loving travelers don’t want to dig for their treasures. They would rather a holiday centered on history, sightseeing and shopping for finished pieces of jewelry (with posh accommodations and amenities as a bonus).

“You can tour some cities very easily through the lens of the history of fine jewelry and jewelry-making,” said Camilla Davidson, who is head of destination management for Britain, France and Ireland at Red Savannah , a luxury travel agency in England. “And that would still enable you to see so many of the destination’s highlights.”

For example, the agency offers a tour of London called Couture and Crown Jewels, an extravagant option for jewelry enthusiasts with deep pockets ($550,000 for two people, without airfare). It offers a private tour of the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London and dinner in its White Tower; a four-night stay at the Raffles London at the OWO; and tickets to a West End show. And it includes a $125,000 credit toward a jewelry purchase at Humphrey Butler, an antique and estate jeweler.

Ms. Davidson said she developed the package in response to the world’s fascination with British royalty and was inspired by the idea of connecting a visit to the Crown Jewels to an exclusive jewelry shopping experience.

Humphrey Butler and his namesake business were a natural fit for the itinerary, she said: “He has the most impeccable collection and he as an individual is completely charming, exceptionally discreet, and just great fun to be around.”

Jewels at Sea

For some jewelry collectors, a travel experience that plays to, or enhances, their level of connoisseurship, is most appealing.

“Whatever their interest is, they want to learn more,” said Mr. Pedraza, the luxury consumer specialist. “So they make an adventure or journey out of it.”

One such example might be the Spotlight on Fabergé package offered by Regent Seven Seas Cruises in collaboration with Fabergé, the Russian heritage workshop known for its bejeweled eggs, which in 2009 moved its headquarters in London.

The first such excursion aboard the Seven Seas Grandeur liner is scheduled for July. Josina von dem Bussche-Kessell, Fabergé’s creative director, explained that the cruise is designed for “clients who care about art and culture and would happily sit for an hour or so to learn about the history of Fabergé’s royal clients then and now.”

The Grandeur, which was launched in November, has its own 1,600-piece art collection, including a Fabergé egg in an ocean theme with blue guilloché enamel, diamonds and pearls, called “Journey in Jewels,” which was commissioned by Regent Seven Seas. (The meetings on the commission actually led to the cruise collaboration.)

The 11-day voyage is scheduled to depart from the Civitavecchia port in Rome and to include destinations such as the Sicilian city of Taormina; Ibiza, Spain; and Nice, France, ending in Monaco (from $12,999 per person, including airfare).

The programming is to include Fabergé expert-led lectures, screenings and master classes, as well as shore excursions attuned to the participants’ interests in the decorative arts. As Ms. von dem Bussche-Kessell sees it, such a floating symposium — a kind of sleepover camp on a luxury scale — effectively creates a community for people who share a common passion.

Mr. Pedraza said that was an important incentive for certain travelers: “They love to engage with the product while meeting people who are their peers and who come through trusted brands and curators.”

And the return home is just as important as the journey itself, especially with a glittering souvenir to show friends and family.

“You get to demonstrate your expertise,” Mr. Pedraza said, “The experience has made you an insider.”

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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Electrostal History and Art Museum

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Electrostal History and Art Museum - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Republic of Ireland 0-2 England: Captain Leah Williamson felt '10 times taller' on return

9 April 2024 9 April 2024 . From the section Women's Football

Captain Leah Williamson said she felt "10 times taller and 10 times stronger" making her return for England for the first time in a year in their victory over the Republic of Ireland.

England picked up their first win in Euro 2025 qualifying with a 2-0 victory in Dublin thanks to first-half goals from Lauren James and Alex Greenwood.

Williamson played a key role as they kept a clean sheet despite late pressure from the Republic of Ireland.

"I had my eyes set on this," she said.

"Honestly I just really, really love playing for England. When I put this badge on I feel 10 times taller, 10 times stronger. The girls are such a great group of girls and I loved every second of that."

Williamson's last start for the Lionesses was in a friendly against Australia on 11 April 2023, eight days before she suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury which meant she missed the Women's World Cup as England finished runners-up.

"These days with ACLs, you come back hopefully in a healthy way, but I wanted to be good enough to play for England again," added Williamson.

"The standards are so high and the players that have been here have made them higher. This was the thought and I felt today was a completion of that journey."

Williamson said she "struggled" to keep her emotions in check during the national anthem as she spotted her mum in the crowd.

"When it finished, that was the most emotional I was. I wanted to stay in the game and be present but it's been a journey. It's a nice feeling," she added.

England boss Sarina Wiegman said she was "happy" with Williamson's performance and it was a moment she "had to get through" following injury.

"I have to look back but my first reaction is that I'm happy with her performance and she did well," said Wiegman.

"I think she was very front-footed, alert. Her overall passing was good and in some moments she won duels that were really necessary [for us] to win."

'You're always under pressure to win'

England's win at Aviva Stadium was a crucial one after a frustrating 1-1 draw with Sweden on Friday means they trail leaders France by two points in the qualifying group table.

They face France next in May and Williamson said England "will get better" having looked off the pace this month.

"They will probably get better as well, but you can expect a competitive side [in May]," said Williamson.

"The most important thing was three points. It's what we came here for. Obviously we would have liked it to be more convincing, a bit like the first half, but sometimes you've got to see out games.

"It says a lot about our standards that we all think [the 1-1 draw with Sweden] is a setback now. We knew we had to come here and win which is why I am so happy with it. It wasn't a convincing [last] 20 minutes but I'm very happy with three points."Wiegman wanted her side to be better on the ball and said they must improve if they want to remain among Europe's elite having claimed the title at Euro 2022.

"We know [France] are top level so yes, we have to be at our top level," she said.

"We have to improve all the time, first of all because we want to improve. Secondly, because if you want to stay at the top, then it's necessary to develop. We demand that from ourselves."

England midfielder Keira Walsh added: "That's the beauty of playing for England, you're always under pressure to win. A lot of our players thrive off that.

"You could see in the first half [against the Republic of Ireland] the way we came out - we knew it was going to be a massive game - and it was a good team performance."

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