I love islands.

I grew up on Newfoundland. The people who grow up on an island know that they are unique, and distinct. There's fierce independence that comes from knowing you have to figure it out - no one is coming to save you (like my newsletter 2 weeks ago talked about New Zealanders responding to the volcano) - and you have to help each other get through (and my earlier references to Newfoundland and the "Come From Away" story). 

See https://archive.aweber.com/newsletter/awlist4876745/MTkwNTI5MDE=/new-zealand-lush-life-travel-ideas.htm

I love visiting islands too - whether my home province, Anguilla, Hawaii, New Zealand, or Australia.  There's a sympatico that I feel with the locals. And a feeling of welcome I feel when I get off the plane. I feel home.

If you have visited some islands, you have learned their habits and ways of living. "Island time" can sometimes be used to disparage islanders, by implying they don't do anything fast, and time is fluid and doesn't mean anything. Not sure that's the insult it might be intended to be - maybe you need to slow down. But - if you're visiting an island, you will learn that they are not changing for you, so you should open your eyes and ears and learn their ways of living. 

Tourists visiting Hawaii quickly learn not to use their car horn, and those visiting Australia realize that Starbucks wasn't welcomed (Australia coffee culture is strong). Those visiting Newfoundland will find there's no uber or uber eats.   There is a fierce independence, and protection of family and neighbours.

So, maybe it's time for you to visit an island. If you're already living on one, or visiting one; maybe consider visiting another.

I have some island offers and invitations below. Have a look.

Have you heard of  see https://www.chainedesrotisseurs.com/

As noted on their website: "the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is an International Association of Gastronomy now established in over 75 countries bringing together enthusiasts who share the same values ​​of quality, fine dining, the encouragement of the culinary arts and the pleasures of the table. The distinctive character of our association is to bring together amateurs and professionals, from all over the world, whether they are hoteliers, restaurateurs, executive chefs or sommeliers, in the appreciation of fine cuisine."

And only one river cruise company is a member - AMA Waterways.

A gastronomic tradition dating as far back as 1248, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs ("The Royal Guild of Goose Roasters") has come a long way from roasting geese—and AmaWaterways has the exquisite cuisine to prove it!

An internationally renowned gastronomic society so prestigious it once had its own coat of arms, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs ("The Royal Guild of Goose Roasters") is an invitation-only membership organization for individuals and institutions possessing world-class culinary acumen. Among some 24,000 members from 80 countries, AmaWaterways and President Rudi Schreiner were extended membership in 2011 at a black tie ceremony (complete with multi-course dinner and flight of wine) in Austria’s stunning Salzburg Residenz palace. It was the first time a cruise line had ever been extended membership—and if you’ve indulged in our extraordinary, regionally inspired cuisine, it should come as no surprise!

Discover the vibrant colors, cultures, and flavors that have captivated generations of authors and artists, including Paul Gauguin himself. On these voyages with fewer than 330 guests, you’ll explore underwater ecosystems, inland villages, and palm-lined beaches, plus every luxury on board from spacious staterooms and suites (most with private balconies) to gourmet cuisine crafted by some of the world’s most talented chefs.

As a Virtuoso guest, you’ll also receive a $100 shipboard credit per person to use toward signature spa treatments, souvenirs, and more. 
 

See https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sheilagallanthalloran/travel/luxury-cruises/cruise-lines/3532/paul-gauguin-cruises

Let me know if you'd like to go.

One of the things we love most about what we do is matching our clients tastes' with the greatest hotels in the world.  And with our preferred status with these industry leading hotel brands it means our clients are instant VIP's with upgrades and special perks that you only get working with an elite partner.  So, not only do we have the best rates, but more importantly you get an exceptional experience over and above what you would booking direct or with a credit card.

See the special programs I'm affiliated with below, and let me know if you’d like to discuss a specific hotel stay. Such as at a Peninsula hotel around the world - see Small Luxury Hotels ;

For specific articles about why you should book with an advisor, rather than book by yourself, see here:

Why Wouldn't You Do It Yourself

Booking a Cruise Yourself vs With Advisor

Booking Hawaii Yourself vs Through Advisor

Booking Rocky Mountaineer Yourself vs With Advisor

See some additional detail on these preferred HOTEL PROGRAMS

A&K 100 Club ;  Accor Step & Fairmont ,  Belmond Bellini Club Program ;  

Couture by Langham;  Dorchester Diamond Club;  Four Seasons Preferred, 

Hilton Impresario;  Hyatt Privé Program; IHG Hotel Program ;  

Jumeirah’s Passport to Luxury , Kempinski Club 1897; Luminous Hotel Program ,

Mandarin Oriental Fan Club; Marriott Stars & Luminous , Pearl Partner Oetker;  

Peninsula Fan Club , Preferred Hotel Program ; Rocco Forte Knights Program 

Rosewood Elite ; Small Luxury Hotels 

And - I wanted to let you know about a new way for you to book hotels online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week... You can now browse and book hotels online https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sheilagallanthalloran/travel/luxury-hotels  at your convenience – and what’s more, you’ll still receive all the usual benefits you get when I book your travel - including full service, preferred rates, and exclusive amenities.  And once you make a booking, the information comes directly to me so I can follow up with you about additional services or whatever else you may need!

It’s perfect for last minute getaways, weekend breaks, or other short trips! I’m sure once you try it you’ll agree you get the best of both worlds; the ease and convenience of online booking – plus the value and VIP treatment I know you love. As long as you don't need me to provide any additional services or assistance, you can book hotels yourself with my Virtuoso partners, and I will waive normal booking and management fees. (If you need additional assistance after the booking, normal fees will apply.)

One point, though - if you're looking to stay at week at a Four Seasons partner around the world, say, having me book your holiday through my Four Seasons preferred partners directly (rather than you self-booking through the Virtuoso.com booking engine link above) will bestow additional benefits that I can leverage as a preferred Four Seasons partner. So, let me know if you want to book a Four Seasons, but I can get some extra benefits and "love" for you. 

Of course, this Virtuoso.com booking link and the benefits of you booking yourself, if you choose, doesn’t change any of the services I already offer. I’m still available in person to book hotels and take care of your other travel needs. Just know you now have access to this VIP online hotel booking option now, too.

I'm here when you need me.