Uncategorized - Best Flight, Hotel, Cab, Taxi, and Tour Booking Services | CellyTravel https://cellytravel.com Tue, 08 Oct 2024 19:44:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://cellytravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cropped-CELLY-TRAVEL-FAV-32x32.png Uncategorized - Best Flight, Hotel, Cab, Taxi, and Tour Booking Services | CellyTravel https://cellytravel.com 32 32 5 restaurants to visit on your next trip to Stockholm https://cellytravel.com/5-restaurants-to-visit-on-your-next-trip-to-stockholm/ https://cellytravel.com/5-restaurants-to-visit-on-your-next-trip-to-stockholm/#respond Tue, 08 Oct 2024 19:44:00 +0000 https://cellytravel.com/5-restaurants-to-visit-on-your-next-trip-to-stockholm/ Stockholm is a city with a diverse and vibrant culinary scene, reflecting its deep-rooted Scandinavian traditions...

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Stockholm is a city with a diverse and vibrant culinary scene, reflecting its deep-rooted Scandinavian traditions and cosmopolitan nature. There’s something to satisfy every palate in the Swedish capital but here we share with you five very different places to try on your next visit. Whether you’re looking for a gourmet tasting menu, some of the city’s finest seafood, authentic Thai cuisine, the city’s best burger, or a chance to dine like a Viking, these restaurants will provide you with unforgettable meals that showcase some of Stockholm’s culinary offerings. So, loosen your belt and prepare your taste buds — these dining destinations are sure to impress.

For fine dining: Persona

Persona, located in central Stockholm, provides a fine dining experience with a blend of Nordic traditions and contemporary cuisine. The restaurant’s interior, designed with mid-century Italian inspiration, features calming green hues and natural wood, creating a welcoming yet refined atmosphere. Guests can enjoy watching the open kitchen as the chefs craft their dishes.

The tasting menu at Persona features a mix of innovative and beautifully presented dishes, focusing on fresh, local ingredients. Standout offerings include a dish of  “beef / chimichurri / shiso tempura” – fusion of Latin American and Japanese flavours. The dessert course brings together sweet treats like a cardamom croissant, a chocolate soufflé tart, and a cannelé, blending traditional French and Swedish influences.

What sets Persona apart is its attention to detail and personal touches. From the carefully selected wine pairings to the final keepsake of a Polaroid photo of guests, the restaurant creates a memorable and immersive dining experience that will linger in the memory long after you have left.

For superb seafood: Lisa Elmqvist Restaurant

For seafood lovers, a visit to Lisa Elmqvist Restaurant is an absolute must. Located in the historic Östermalms Saluhall, one of Stockholm’s most famous food markets, Lisa Elmqvist has been serving some of the freshest seafood in the city for over four generations. The restaurant is renowned for its commitment to quality and sustainability, offering a menu that highlights the best of what Sweden’s waters have to offer.

The heart of Lisa Elmqvist’s menu lies in its simple yet expertly prepared dishes, allowing the freshness of the ingredients to shine. Start with an appetiser of Skagen toast, a Swedish classic that is a mix of shrimps, mayonnaise and dill, served on toast, garnished with trout roe and accompanied by a wedge of lemon. From there, indulge in the steamed halibut served with butter-fried chantarelles, beans and kohlrabi, salmon roe and a Sandefjord sauce flavoured with dill, and you will not be disappointed.

Diners are able to enjoy their meal in the lively atmosphere of the market hall, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the food hall’s vendors. It’s a setting that sonehow works, regardless of whether you’ve having a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, and that captures the essence of Stockholm’s culinary heritage as well as the timeless appeal of the city’s markets.

For Thai cuisine: Rimlay Thaikök

There has been significant immigration from Thailand to Sweden, particularly since the 1970s with many Thai restaurants having opened restaurants. One to definitely try, despite its unassuming exterior, is Rimlay Thaikök, a beloved spot known for serving some of the most authentic Thai dishes at Naka Strand on the outskirts the city.

The menu offers a wide array of classic Thai dishes that will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand. Begin your meal with the delicious chicken satay sticks, and for your main, the chicken massaman takes some beating, delivers powerful Thai flavours that will have you going back for more. (We enjoyed it so much that we visited two nights in a row!)

The restaurant’s casual, no-frills vibe makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family. Just don’t be fooled by the unpretentious setting as the food is consistently impressive. Whether you’re a fan of Thai curries, noodle dishes, or stir-fries, Rimlay Thaikök is sure to deliver on all fronts, and at a very reasonable price point.

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For the best burger in the city: Flippin’ Burgers

When it comes to finding the best burger in Stockholm, you’d be hard-pushed to surpassing those served at Flippin’ Burgers in the city’s Norrmalm district. This laid-back restaurant serves some of the most succulent and mouthwatering burgers I have ever tasted, with its success no doubt being due to its commitment to quality ingredients, and a genuine passion for the craft of making the perfect burger.

The menu at Flippin’ Burgers is refreshingly simple, yet each item is carefully crafted to deliver on flavour. I went for the cricket burger, described as “A Colorado classic. Cream cheese, caramelised onions, pickled red onions and jalapeño”, which I would wholeheartedly recommend. A veggie Beond burger option is also available.

The restaurant has a relaxed, retro vibe, and a distinctly American diner feel. Staff are friendly and attentive, and the casual environment makes it a perfect spot for a laid-back meal. Pair your burger with their fries – and a thick, creamy milkshake if that’s your thing – and you’ve got yourself the ultimate comfort food experience.

To dine like a Viking: Restaurant Särimner

Last but not least… and for a dining experience that’s truly unlike any other, try the Birka glamping experience where you’ll get to dine like a Viking at Restaurant Särimner. This immersive dining experience draws inspiration from Viking history, culture and cuisine in a very special setting. The island of Birka was a centre of trade during the Viking times and is often regarded as the first Stockholm.

The dinner is included in the glamping experience, allowing you to enjoy Swedish dishes such as Classic Toast Skagen with a view of Lake Mälaren as the sun sets. The hearty mains included dishes such as red wine braised beef cheek with root vegetable gratin and asparagus, Särimner’s fish and seafood casserole, and glazed ribs with fries, all exceptionally cooked.

The food is only part of the experience with the restaurant’s interior designed to resemble a Viking longhouse, with long communal tables and animal hides that transport you back to the days of the Norsemen. This is more than just a meal — it’s an opportunity a very special setting long after the majority of tourists have left the island.

Disclosure: Our trip was kindly supported by Visit Stockholm.

Paul Johnson

Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.

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7 attractions you shouldn’t miss in Stockholm https://cellytravel.com/7-attractions-you-shouldnt-miss-in-stockholm/ https://cellytravel.com/7-attractions-you-shouldnt-miss-in-stockholm/#respond Mon, 07 Oct 2024 19:24:51 +0000 https://cellytravel.com/7-attractions-you-shouldnt-miss-in-stockholm/ The picturesque metropolis of Stockholm boasts a rich maritime heritage, stunning architecture, and an impressive array...

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The picturesque metropolis of Stockholm boasts a rich maritime heritage, stunning architecture, and an impressive array of museums and attractions. With so much going on, the city has something to offer every visitor. From the Viking powerhouse of Birka to the future cities exhibit in the National Museum of Science and Technology, here we suggest seven very different attractions that will give you an insight into Stockholm’s past, present and future.

Whatever you choose to see when you’re in the city, you might like to look into the Stockholm Go City pass as this will allow you to save up to 50% on Stockholm attractions.

Vasa Museum

One of Stockholm’s most iconic attractions, the Vasa Museum, is dedicated to the only preserved 17th century ship in the world, the Vasa. It is one of those places that will make your jaw drop from the moment you enter. The Vasa was built between 1626 and 1628 as a warship commissioned by King Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden.

It tragically sank on its maiden voyage in 1628, only to be rediscovered in the 1950s and raised from the seabed before being meticulously restored. Today it stands as a stunning testament to Sweden’s naval history and you can’t help but be captivated by the sheer size and ornate craftsmanship of the ship.

Exhibits tell you more about the ship’s construction, its tragic sinking, and the subsequent recovery process, while multimedia presentations help to bring the story of the Vasa to life. The museum also houses an impressive collection of artifacts recovered from the ship, providing further insight into life aboard the Vasa during the 17th century.

A visit to the Vasa Museum is not just about seeing a ship (incredible though it is!); it’s about understanding the cultural and historical context of maritime Sweden, making it an unmissable attraction for anyone visiting Stockholm.

The Royal Palace

It’s hard to know where to start with The Royal Palace as it is really multiple attractions in one: the Royal Guard (Högvakten), the Three Crowns Museum (Museum Tre Kronor), the Royal Apartments and Treasury (Representationsvåningarna och Skattkammaren), the Royal Armoury and Riddarholmen Church. The Royal Guard is responsible for protecting the Swedish royal family and is a significant part of Stockholm’s military preparedness. The changing of the guard takes place every day (except for certain holidays) at 12.15pm.

The Three Crowns Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the history of the original Tre Kronor Castle, which stood on the same site until it was destroyed by a devastating fire in 1697. On the other side of the Royal Palace, at the Royal Apartments and Treasury, you can learn about the lifestyle of the Swedish royal family, explore the palace’s northern wing where apartments showcase a collection of lavishly decorated rooms, and see the Council Chamber – a grand and historic room that has been used for centuries for important government meetings.

The Royal Armoury (not included in the Palace ticket) can be found deep inside the stone vaults of the Royal Palace and is one of the oldest museums in Sweden. Its collections of antiquities and other memorabilia trace the royal history of Sweden from the 16th century to the present day.

And finally, the 13th century Riddarholmen Church is the final resting place of many Swedish monarchs, including Charles XII, Gustav III and Karl Johan, as well as other notable figures, such as Jean Baptiste Bernadotte, who was adopted by Charles XIII and became King of Sweden.

City Hall

Completed in 1923, Stockholm’s City Hall, or Stadshuset, is an iconic building – a striking architectural masterpiece that stands as a symbol of the city itself. With its waterfront location and renowned, distinctive towers, it is not only an important administrative building but also a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world.

Inside, City Hall features a variety of beautiful halls and rooms, and a guided tour of the Blue Hall, the Council Hall and the Golden Hall will give you insights into the role the building plays in the cultural life of Stockholm. The Blue Hall is famous for hosting the annual Nobel Prize banquet, where laureates celebrate their achievements. It is characterised by grand arches and elegant simplicity.

The Council Hall is where Stockholm City Council holds its meetings. It’s an important venue for local governance and decision-making, with a style influenced by Nordic Classicism; it is lit by large, tall windows and has beautiful wood-paneled walls and ceilings, with intricate carvings that reflect Swedish craftsmanship.

The tour finishes with a visit to the Golden Hall – designed by the architect Ragnar Östberg – which is adorned with stunning mosaics that depict Swedish history and mythology. Some 18 million mosaic tiles cover an area of around 1,500 square meters, with one of the most famous images being the Queen of Lake Mälaren. She sits on a throne that represents Stockholm and is surrounded by figures that symbolise other parts of the world, demonstrating its role as a global city and the connection between Sweden and the wider world.

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National Museum of Science and Technology

The National Museum of Science and Technology, or Tekniska Museet, is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in scientific discovery. It is dedicated to showcasing the evolution of technology and its impact on society and has a wide range of interactive exhibits. Learn about historical inventions and the development of transport, communication and energy.

We really enjoyed the insights into future cities and learning more about the notion of the 15-minute city – an urban planning concept where daily necessities and services can all be easily reached in just 15 minutes.  This would reduce car dependency, promote a healthier lifestyle and enable sustainable living, with the hope that it will improve the overall quality of life for city dwellers.

There are lots of hands-on displays and exhibits such as the facial recognition software which aims to detect age, gender and mood. Not entirely accurate but impressive nonetheless!

On the top floor of the museum, kids – and maybe some adults too – will love the old computer games and consoles, many of which you can play on. The collection has been acquired from a museum that was sadly forced to close. I even spotted the computer from my childhood – the once-popular Commodore 64!

Army Museum

For those intrigued by military history, the Army Museum (Armémuseum) in Stockholm is a must-visit attraction. Housed in a beautiful building dating back to the 18th century, the museum provides an in-depth look at Sweden’s military history from the Viking Age to the present day.

There’s a wealth of artifacts to view, including uniforms, weapons and equipment, that narrate the story of Sweden’s military involvement over the centuries.

Exhibits highlight significant events in Swedish military history and there are displays dedicated to various conflicts, such as the Great Northern War and World War II. Learn how these events have shaped the nation and delve into the lives of soldiers and the impact warfare has had on Swedish society.

On the ground floor of the museum, there is currently a moving and poignant exhibition called ‘Crossroads’ which looks at Sweden’s and Ukraine’s history through the last 1,000 years – a collaboration between the Swedish National Museums of Military History, the National Archives and the National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War. It starts with the Viking Age – and the marriage between Olof Skötkonung’s daughter Ingegerd and Yaroslav I (the Wise) of Kyiv – and takes you all the way through to the present conflict.

Haga Ocean Butterfly House

Nestled within Haga Park, a 10-minute drive north of Stockholm city centre, the Haga Ocean Butterfly House is like two attractions combined into one – a lush environment that is home to a stunning variety of butterflies and tropical plants, and a marine aquarium that is home to all manner of aquatic life, from coral to clownfish.

Designed to resemble a tropical rainforest, the Butterfly House is complete with waterfalls, exotic vegetation and, of course, countless butterflies. See these incredible specimens up close as they feed off fruit that has been put out for them and watch them fluttering around… they may even land on you as they did with us!

Watch where you walk – not only because the butterflies land on the ground, but also because there are small frogs hopping about freely. Marvel too at the chrysalis board where you’ll see hundreds of pupae and admire the metamorphosis process first-hand.

In addition to the butterfly exhibits, there’s a small aquarium where the highlight is a large tank with a few sharks and other fish. It’s not an extensive display like some other aquariums in Europe but would definitely be enjoyed by families with young children.

Birka: The Viking City

Take a scenic boat ride from Stockholm to Birka, located on the island of Björkö in Lake Mälaren. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Sweden’s most significant archaeological sites Often referred to as the first Stockholm or the first town in Sweden, it was was established during the Viking Age and became a thriving centre of European trade and culture.

A guided tour of Birka is a great way to learn more about the town’s historical significance, allowing you to imagine what life was like for the inhabitants of this bustling settlement. The surrounding landscape is also worth exploring and there are some fabulous views of the lake to be enjoyed from the Monument of Ansgar at the highest point on the island.

You can visit ancient burial mounds and the foundations of houses and workshops, as well as full-scale reconstructions of Viking-era buildings and boats, ancient Norse crops, and livestock, to gain a better insight into what life was like in this earliest of Swedish settlements.

The Birka Museum also provides valuable context for the site, showcasing artifacts recovered from the area, such as tools, jewelry, and weapons, which illustrate the craftsmanship and daily life of the Viking people. Why not stay the night after the majority of tourists have departed, enjoy a special glamping experience and have a deeper connection with the rich heritage of Sweden’s Viking past?

Disclosure: Our trip was kindly supported by Visit Stockholm.

Paul Johnson

Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.

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Review: Lisa Elmqvist Restaurant, Stockholm, Sweden https://cellytravel.com/review-lisa-elmqvist-restaurant-stockholm-sweden/ https://cellytravel.com/review-lisa-elmqvist-restaurant-stockholm-sweden/#respond Sun, 06 Oct 2024 18:37:08 +0000 https://cellytravel.com/review-lisa-elmqvist-restaurant-stockholm-sweden/ The Elmqvist family has been celebrated for its dedication to fresh seafood and traditional Swedish fare...

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The Elmqvist family has been celebrated for its dedication to fresh seafood and traditional Swedish fare for almost 100 years. Lisa was the daughter of a fisherman and began trading her produce at a street market by the waterfront before moving to Östermalm’s Saluhall, which was renovated in 2020 and is located at Östermalmstorg in the heart of Stockholm.

Four generations later, the Lisa Elmqvist name now has a significant presence within the food hall, with multiple food stalls, a restaurant and a wine bar.

The food

The first thing to note is that Lisa Elmqvist has the trust of the King of Sweden, being the only fish and seafood shop in the country to have a Royal Warrant. Where better, then, to sample a fish restaurant in the capital?

Among our starters, we tried the Skagen toast – a Swedish classic that is a mix of shrimps, mayonnaise and dill, served on toast, garnished with trout roe and accompanied by a wedge of lemon. It’s a popular appetiser and, prepared like this with quality ingredients, it’s easy to see why.

If you’re looking for a wider range of tastes, the kitchen’s choice of five delicacies is a delicious option. It includes the Skagen toast and other classic Swedish delicacies like cured salmon, pickled herring, and smoked eel.

The mains include everything from fish and chips served with a green pea purée and tartar sauce…

…to my choice, which was the steamed halibut served with butter-fried chantarelles, beans and kohlrabi, salmon roe and a Sandefjord sauce flavoured with dill. The fish was cooked to perfection – so delicate and tender – and the sauce was a luxurious and indulgent complement.

Another recommendation would be my wife’s butter-fried fillet of salmon which came with a parmesan and herb crust, roasted pumpkin purée and a red wine gravy flavoured with ginger.

While I skipped dessert, had I not done so, I would probably have opted for the kids’ choice of the chocolate cake with salted caramel cream and lightly whipped cream, although the warm cloudberries with vanilla ice cream, lightly whipped cream and almond flake also sounded rather tempting.

The chef

Lisa retired from the business in 1968 and lived for a further 10 years, but her experience, knowledge and recipes live on to this day, thanks to the guidance of four generations of the Elmqvists, and a team of talented chefs who have a genuine interest in the handling and preparation of fish and shellfish. An open-plan kitchen allows you to see their skills at work.

The ambiance

The moment you enter the food hall, the aromas capture your senses. Restaurant seating for Lisa Elmqvist is interspersed by walkways used by shoppers and diners alike, as well as food stalls that set the scene for a very relaxed ambiance.

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The cost

Starters are priced from 145 SEK, approximately $14 USD (for silltallrik – a herring plate of three varieties served with dark rye bread and Västerbotten cheese) all the way up to 1,290 SEK (for the Lisa Elmqvist Royal Siberian Caviar).

Mains are typically around the 300-400 SEK range ($30-$40), but obviously depend on precisely what you choose. Expect to pay more for the shellfish platter, for instance.

The final verdict

Lisa Elmqvist is a name that’s become synonymous with first-class fish and seafood – and for good reason, earning its excellent reputation and culinary legacy over the last century. If you love the delicacies of the sea, we highly recommend that you visit the restaurant for lunch or dinner to sample what is – quite literally – produce that has been deemed fit for a King.

Disclosure: Our visit was sponsored by Lisa Elmqvist and our trip was kindly supported by Visit Stockholm.

Paul Johnson

Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.

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A tale of two skiers and two mountain resorts in Utah https://cellytravel.com/a-tale-of-two-skiers-and-two-mountain-resorts-in-utah/ https://cellytravel.com/a-tale-of-two-skiers-and-two-mountain-resorts-in-utah/#respond Sat, 05 Oct 2024 17:48:40 +0000 https://cellytravel.com/a-tale-of-two-skiers-and-two-mountain-resorts-in-utah/ Once, Katherine asked me, “What was your happiest moment?” I can’t remember what I said. I...

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Once, Katherine asked me, “What was your happiest moment?” I can’t remember what I said. I think it was a family Thanksgiving vacation in Barcelona, far away from eating turkey but close to Gaudi. Katherine’s happiest moment was a deep powder day, making turns down a run at Alta Ski Resort in Utah. 

Most advanced skiers know the feeling. It’s like your chest is full of monarch butterflies, and your mind is free from thought, although you may be humming a tune. For me, I feel supremely thankful. This is me at 63, and I like it! 

I wanted to see why Katherine was so in love with Alta and Alta Lodge. She goes back every year. A Sundance ski pass had been dangling from my desk light, a travel-writing perk acquired at Ski Utah’s fall press party. Thus, the Sundance—Alta four-day ladies’ jaunt from NYC to SLC, was on the calendar. Sundance for two days, Alta for 2.5 days. 

Two Utah resorts, two different vibes

Sundance is like skiing with your friends. It feels local, western, easy, calm. You want to call everyone dude and channel both Jeremiah Johnson and your favorite art teacher or meditation coach. 

Alta is like skiing with your family, especially when staying at Alta Lodge. Case in point:

We were having dinner with Katherine’s friends, a couple she skis with annually. Both families choose Alta Lodge as their Christmas break destination.  

While at dinner, a woman at the table behind us proceeded to have some sort of seizure. In reaction, Katherine loudly chanted, “Doctors, doctors, doctors!”

The couple, both doctors, jumped from the table to help this woman. What makes it an Alta Lodge moment is that the doctors already knew the woman in trouble; they had met years earlier and could call her to consciousness by name. 

The paramedics came, and the doctors, Alicia Rojas and Rob Sloan, were able to give them detailed information about the woman’s condition because they traveled with a medical kit, which came in very handy. So yes, you get to know and care for each other at Alta Lodge. 

Neither Katherine nor I were keen on flying and skiing on the same day. But Utah resorts beat the drum about these early flights for harried New Yorkers who are ambitious in everything they do… that would be more Katherine than me. 

So we take an early flight out, arrive at Sundance about noon, change into our ski clothes (in the public bathrooms), gear up, and get on their new Outlaw Express lift. 

With the influx of capital from Storyteller, Sundance’s new-ish owners who purchased the resort from famed Robert Redford, this process promises to improve. 

Sundance

Sundance broke ground on a new hotel in June (2024).  It will not be “taller than the tallest tree,” a favorite comment of Sundance marketing folks. Instead of one big hotel, two smaller buildings are adjoined by a bridge. As VP Marketing Nick Como explained, it’s all about honoring Robert Redford’s legacy of being “good stewards of the land.” 

And what LAND it is. Our first day on the mountain was sparkling, with temperatures close to 50 degrees. Topanango Mountain is one of the most stunning peaks in Utah. It looks like a mama bear claw that holds the whole mountain in the palm of its hand. 

Katherine and I make interesting ski companions. I’m advanced, and Katherine is expert level—a funny description because she doesn’t get paid for skiing, although she skis like she does. She wants a challenge. She wants to get better. 

To give you a little background, Katherine was born and raised in New York City, attended The Brearley School, and then Haverford. She is a graduate of Harvard Business School, has held several SVP positions, and has been a company president. Then, she started her own executive coaching business for C-suite teams. She skis like she’s getting the job done but loves it just the same. She likes bumps and steeps. 

I was born and raised in Southern California. I attended public school, focusing on dance and surfers. I went to the University of Utah, majoring in journalism. I moved to NYC, became a fashion stylist (before anyone, including my father, knew what that was), and dressed music celebrities for CD packaging. Then, I moved to the burbs, where I met Katherine and continued to dress women for executive lifestyles. 

With her coach hat on, Katherine once asked me, “Who’s driving your bus?” I was having a challenging time with a client. I said Mary Poppins. She asked why. Because Mary is in charge, prudent, fun, practical, cautious, and practically perfect in every way, I ski like Mary would – graceful and cautious. I like to cruise. I like groomers. 

Still, it’s fun to ski together. From Outlaw Express Lift, we took Red’s Lift to the top, and from there, some gentle blues down (skiers left) from Bearclaw to Roundup. With the warm weather, the snow was challenging: soft on the top and hard-packed underneath. 

We both like Bishop’s Bowl and the black runs that feed off of that. Pipeline is fun, although a bit narrow for me. 

The elevation at Sundance is lower than up the Cottonwood Canyons, where Alta, Solitude, and other well-known Utah ski slopes reside.  So snow conditions can be tricky, but Nick, the marketing VP mentioned earlier, said the recent investment in snowmaking equipment “Saved our goat, big time last December,” Lower elevation does have its advantages. Sundance is the first to open for mountain biking and hiking and the last to close. 

Yet skiing is just one of many reasons to go to Sundance. If you want to get creative, dedicate time to making or seeing art at Sundance. 

“The view doesn’t get any better,” said my jewelry-making instructor at the Art Shack, which is several art studios in one building where guests can learn glass-blowing, soap-making, pottery, or perfume. 

I made a turquoise cuff bracelet at a jewelry-making class. I discovered that matrix is the colored, veiny threads running through turquoise. Americans like matrix, while the European market wants turquoise to be unblemished. 

When I shared my jewelry-making efforts with an Alta regular, he snickered, “Oh, so you go to Sundance NOT to ski?”  This alone speaks to the difference between the two resorts. I like both. 

Conservation, nature, and art make Sundance, Sundance. If you’re not interested in a turquoise bobble, make something else or tap into the guided hikes, mountain biking, or plein air painting (and that’s just for starters). 

Theater and film arts? Well, this was Robert Redford’s place and the original home of the Sundance Film Festival. The main building, which houses The Foundry Grill, General Store, Deli, and fancy-dining Tree Room restaurant, has photographs of film legends like Denzel Washington and Quentin Tarantino. Sundance hosts everything from film classes to read-throughs to script-writing workshops. 

Redford found the bar, the bar back, and a side cabinet in Thermopolis, Wyoming at the historic Hole In The Wall Saloon where Butch Cassidy and his Wild Bunch used to hang out (and, some say, hide loot). Apparently, there were two bars in the establishment, Redford bought the secondary bar, called The Owl Bar, and shipped it to Sundance. The first one resides in Thermopolis’s Hot Springs County Historical Museum. 

Having cocktails in this bar is a boots-and-spurs feeling that captures your imagination of what the true West must have been like in the 1800s. Appropriately, there are several black and white photos decorating the Owl Bar of Redford and Newman as Butch and Sundance. And while Redford never wanted Sundance, the resort, to be a story about him, it always was. 

Going forward, with a 30 million dollar investment from Storyteller and a mission dedicated to conservation, nature, and art. Sundance will become even more Sundance. 

Alta

Alta — pronounce the “a” like apple. That matters to Alta regulars. I was corrected repeatedly. 

I had a Mountain Collective pass, which allows you to visit independently owned and operated resorts worldwide for two days. Alta is part of their “collective.” In addition to the two days, you receive a 50% discount on additional days and one bonus day. Frankly, I thought I was “sticking it to the man” getting this pass. Epic and Icon and their big business mentality for skiing bothers me. But that is fodder for another story. 

Katherine was my guide on our first day, and she did a good job of giving me a feel for the mountain. As we were headed up Collins Lift, she pointed out High Traverse, a feeder for a bunch of blacks that looked terrifying to me but were regular runs for Katherine. This was March; the snow was hard-packed and icy because of the warm days and little snowfall. So High Travers was closed (safety first!), but there were plenty of groomers to swish down that was super fun, no matter the snow conditions. 

When you look at an Alta map, you see more blacks than blues, but it didn’t feel that way. For the way I ski—cautious, casual—it fits.  What I really loved about Alta was staying at Alta Lodge, for that matter any of the accommodations on the mountain would do. It is just SO luxurious to be able to take off your ski boots and walk into your hotel, obviously! 

I met Anastasia Vournas mid-mountain at Collins Grill. As we were both struggling to get our ski boots off and slip into the slippers provided by the restaurant, I asked her about her history with Alta. She had A LOT to say: “Many friends ski in the east–I’m unavailable. I went once, and I said this is so not for me–icey, much colder, windy. I mean, it’s a hostage situation, so awful!”

She went on to explain that Alta is perfect for a multigenerational family. The terrain is varied enough to suit most skiers from beginning to advanced. Furthermore, there are no snowboarders. Anastasia, a C-suit executive who now runs a not-for-profit food foundation, had her opinions: “Snowboarders are not taught how to ski safely. It’s better to ski without snowboarders–Alta is for skiers. This has been THE tagline for Alta’s marketing campaign since snowboarders hit the slopes in the mid-80s.

Katherine and her friend Alicia (remember the doctor?) agreed with Anastasia’s opinion of Alta’s ski school. Anastasia suggests their private lessons, no matter your skill level, but especially if you are a beginner. She explained that, “If you understand the mechanics of skiing, you’ll be fine, even if you begin in your 40s like I did.” 

Katherine has taken advanced ski workshops offered through Alta Lodge, which are a great idea for someone who wants to improve and have ski companions with equivalent skills. 

About arriving at Alta Lodge without a ski buddy, Alicia told me a story on the Supreme Lift. That day we were accessing blues to skiers left, which we heard were a softer bet.  Regardless, lift riding is a great place for storytelling…  Years ago when Alicia was newly divorced, it was Christmas time, and she didn’t want to default back to the family home “with her tail between her legs,” so she signed up for a ski package with lessons and dorm-room-style accommodations at Alta Lodge. 

The ski lessons built confidence (and I’m not just talking about in skiing). Alta Lodge was an easy place to be as a single woman. The staff and guests were friendly and welcoming, and for Alicia it was like going “home” to no judgment, privacy, and a feeling of belonging. 

Fast forward life, she remarried, had a kid, and the family returns to Alta Lodge for winter holidays and spring vacation. The family still accesses the renowned ski school. Alicia has favorite instructors who have become friends. 

The bar at Alta Lodge is a treasure–on the second floor, it overlooks the face of Mount Superior, with an A-frame wood beamed ceiling, a little nook of a bar, it’s unpretentious, and cowboy cool (not your Aspen apres ski scene), decidedly Utah, Alta Utah. I met up with GM Cliff Curry there. (The bar is also the location for morning yoga classes.) 

Cliff was a lawyer in Seattle at a sizable firm. He wasn’t particularly happy, “I just wanted to go skiing. The idea was to come out for one winter, 27 years later, I am still in touch with people I worked with at Snow Pine.” Snow Pine Lodge is another on-mountain lodge where Cliff landed his first Alta job. 

He continued, “Every Wednesday at 2 o’clock I’d go to the phone booth and call the Alta Lodge, ask for Julie–Julie, it’s Cliff Curry, I still want to work there. Finally, when they had an opening, she thought of that guy who bothers me every week. My first job was as a front desk clerk. I just wanted to ski my brains out, no ambition, no plans.” 

As Cliff put it, “Alta Lodge put up with me.” After 27 years of working in almost every position, he learned the ropes, got better at his slalom, and became the big cheese. His willingness to sit down to tell his Alta Lodge story definitely personalized the hotel experience for me. 

During my stay at Alta Lodge, it seemed everyone I met and spoke with had an Alta Lodge story. Now, having been there, I have several of my own. Will I go back to gather and create more? I certainly hope so!

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Unforgettable Adventures on a Girls’ Trip to Atlantic City” – Neckies Great Adventures https://cellytravel.com/unforgettable-adventures-on-a-girls-trip-to-atlantic-city-neckies-great-adventures/ https://cellytravel.com/unforgettable-adventures-on-a-girls-trip-to-atlantic-city-neckies-great-adventures/#respond Fri, 04 Oct 2024 17:29:08 +0000 https://cellytravel.com/unforgettable-adventures-on-a-girls-trip-to-atlantic-city-neckies-great-adventures/ With so much being said about Atlantic City lately, is it worth a trip? Can you...

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With so much being said about Atlantic City lately, is it worth a trip? Can you have a good time without going to the casino?  In a word, yes, you can.  I took a little girls’ trip to AC with my best friend and never considered going to the casino.  As someone who is not a gambler, I had one of the best times there since I’ve been going.   Yet, for folks who love the rush and excitement of it, is it worth a trip?

A trip to Atlantic City can be incredibly worthwhile even if you plan to avoid visiting the casinos. During my recent girls’ trip with my best friend, I experienced some of the best moments without thinking about gambling. Our days were filled with pampering at the spa, leisurely margarita sipping, exploring the lively boardwalk, and enjoying the thrilling rides at the Steel Pier. Simply basking in the serenity and embracing the spontaneity of the trip made it utterly unique. The absence of a rigid plan allowed us to immerse ourselves fully in the experience. At every turn, we conversed with new acquaintances – at the spa, the bar, and while strolling along the boardwalk.  It’s incredible how a simple conversation can brighten your day and create lasting memories.  These refreshing chance encounters, and the joy of getting to know the people around you, made our trip truly special.

We also enjoyed a delightful stroll along the boardwalk, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling city. The Steel Pier was a blast, with its thrilling rides and carnival atmosphere. And, of course, nothing beats unwinding at the spa and sipping margaritas with a good friend by your side. The spontaneous nature of our trip was truly refreshing.

One memorable evening, we indulged in a delightful dinner at the Sugar Factory within the Hard Rock. The Sugar Factory is known for its unique drinks, and the signature smoking drinks, available even in non-alcoholic versions, were a true spectacle to behold. As we marveled at our beverages, we initiated conversations with neighboring diners, sharing their celebrations and happiness.

Our girls’ trip to Atlantic City proved you could have a fantastic time without ever setting foot in a casino. From relaxation to adventure and unexpected connections, it was a trip to remember.  

In conclusion, my girls’ trip to Atlantic City proved that the city offers an abundance of enjoyment beyond the casino scene. From relaxation to unexpected connections and delightful dining experiences, it was a trip that exceeded all expectations. Atlantic City truly has something unique for everyone, whether seeking tranquility or adventure. The variety of experiences available in the city is truly intriguing and worth exploring.

If you’re considering visiting Atlantic City, it’s worth it, with or without the casino experience.



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Review: Flippin’ Burgers, Stockholm, Sweden https://cellytravel.com/review-flippin-burgers-stockholm-sweden/ https://cellytravel.com/review-flippin-burgers-stockholm-sweden/#respond Thu, 03 Oct 2024 15:59:46 +0000 https://cellytravel.com/review-flippin-burgers-stockholm-sweden/ Think of Stockholm’s culinary scene, and fine dining and elegant eateries will no doubt come to...

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Think of Stockholm’s culinary scene, and fine dining and elegant eateries will no doubt come to mind. But sometimes,…

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Luxury travel gifts and accessories for your next trip – US & Canada edition https://cellytravel.com/luxury-travel-gifts-and-accessories-for-your-next-trip-us-canada-edition/ https://cellytravel.com/luxury-travel-gifts-and-accessories-for-your-next-trip-us-canada-edition/#respond Wed, 02 Oct 2024 15:46:04 +0000 https://cellytravel.com/luxury-travel-gifts-and-accessories-for-your-next-trip-us-canada-edition/ If you have a trip on the horizon, the excitement is no doubt building… but have...

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If you have a trip on the horizon, the excitement is no doubt building… but have you thought about all those luxurious extras that will enhance your experience? Whether you need to upgrade your luggage, or looking to treat yourself to a new pair of noise-canceling headphones, we have a carefully curated selection of these and more for you to choose from. These are more than just travel necessities, but items designed to help you get the most from your journey, whether you’re heading somewhere familiar or exploring somewhere new. It’s time to pack smarter and travel a little more luxuriously!



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Luxury travel gifts and accessories for your next trip – UK & Europe edition https://cellytravel.com/luxury-travel-gifts-and-accessories-for-your-next-trip-uk-europe-edition/ https://cellytravel.com/luxury-travel-gifts-and-accessories-for-your-next-trip-uk-europe-edition/#respond Tue, 01 Oct 2024 13:41:12 +0000 https://cellytravel.com/luxury-travel-gifts-and-accessories-for-your-next-trip-uk-europe-edition/ Planning a trip and craving some retail therapy before you go? Whether it’s a sneaky weekend...

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Planning a trip and craving some retail therapy before you go? Whether it’s a sneaky weekend away or you’re jet-setting to a far-flung destination, our curated gift guide offers just the inspiration you need. Each item in this collection offers practical and elegant travel solutions to make sure your next trip is that little bit more extraordinary.



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Luxury travel news from around the world (September 2024) https://cellytravel.com/luxury-travel-news-from-around-the-world-september-2024/ https://cellytravel.com/luxury-travel-news-from-around-the-world-september-2024/#respond Mon, 30 Sep 2024 11:37:35 +0000 https://cellytravel.com/luxury-travel-news-from-around-the-world-september-2024/ This month, we’re excited to spotlight an array of stunning offerings in the world of luxury...

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This month, we’re excited to spotlight an array of stunning offerings in the world of luxury travel, from Four Seasons’ latest private jet itinerary to Six Senses’ upcoming eco-conscious retreat nestled in the picturesque hills of Pennsylvania. All this and more, including the chic debut of the Ritz-Carlton’s second superyacht, a tranquil new resort in Oman, and luxurious culinary experiences at iconic destinations like Royal Palm Beachcomber in Mauritius. Read on for the latest updates to see what’s around the corner…



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Review: Glamping at Birka, the Viking City, Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden https://cellytravel.com/review-glamping-at-birka-the-viking-city-stockholm-archipelago-sweden/ https://cellytravel.com/review-glamping-at-birka-the-viking-city-stockholm-archipelago-sweden/#respond Sun, 29 Sep 2024 02:38:38 +0000 https://cellytravel.com/review-glamping-at-birka-the-viking-city-stockholm-archipelago-sweden/ What I’m about to describe isn’t just another luxury hotel review. But please read on and...

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What I’m about to describe isn’t just another luxury hotel review. But please read on and you’ll see how this is a luxury experience of a very different kind, but every bit as special. Birka is essentially the original Stockholm – a bustling Viking trading hub situated on the island of Björkö in Lake Mälaren, just west of modern-day Stockholm. It was established in the 8th century and served as one of the earliest urban centres in Scandinavia, playing a vital role in the trade routes that connected Viking territories with the rest of Europe, Byzantium and even the Middle East.

Once a centre for merchants bringing goods like furs, textiles, jewelry and exotic items, today it is a UNESCO World Heritage site that welcomes visitors to explore the site, learn more about Sweden’s deep Viking heritage and marvel at this symbol of early global trade. And what’s really special is that you can stay overnight at Birka, long after the majority of tourists have left, to truly appreciate the island’s historical values, nature and spirit, and have the place pretty much all to yourself.

But firstly, how do you get there? Most visitors arrive on board M/S Victoria – run by Strömma Kanalbolaget – which leaves Stockholm, and stops at various jetties on the way. Top tip: if you have a car, do as we did and drive to Jungfrusund in Ekerö, and board at the jetty there. Parking in Stockholm is expensive, but at Jungfrusund you can park for free for up to two days. Alternative options are to drive to Lindby brygga, Adelsö and travel by motorboat, or charter a yacht and moor at Birka’s guest harbour.

The welcome

Anyone disembarking M/S Victoria at Birka is greeted by a wooden sign, resting against an old wooden wheelbarrow, with the word ‘welcome’ in Viking runes, set against a picturesque backdrop of red buildings and lush greenery.

You can visit Birka for the day, as most people do, or stay overnight and enjoy a glamping experience. We were there to do the latter, but didn’t communicate our arrival when we first arrived as we first wanted to take the tour. Tours run each day after the boat arrives – one in English and one in Swedish.

The tour of Birka

If you visit Birka, I strongly recommend you take the tour. You’ll still have plenty of time to explore the island at your own leisure, but the tour – which is all included with your visit – will give you some really valuable insights.

It takes about an hour and involves some walking on varied terrain, but nothing too strenuous. On the tour, which is delivered by someone in traditional Viking attire, you will learn about how the island is now much bigger than it used to be due to post-glacial uplift of the terrain, but also about the excavations and burial chambers on the island.

You will learn about how merchants came to the Birka from all over Europe, as well as other parts of the world, as revealed by archaeological excavations that have unearthed Arabic silver, beads and ceramics from Eastern Europe and exclusive fabrics from Asia. In return, the traders would have received Swedish goods such as iron, horns, skins and furs.

Birka controlled the trade routes in northern Scandinavia for around 200 years, but came to an end when the residents either died or abandoned the island, we’re not sure which. Some 5,000 graves – mostly cremation graves – exist on the island today and are a moving reminder of what was once a thriving community.

The tour concludes close to the Monument of Ansgar, a cross that occupies the highest point on the island. It was built to honour the Benedictine monk Ansgar, a missionary who was sent to Sweden in the 800s by Louis the Pious, emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, to bring Christianity to the country. While his mission may not have been entirely successful, a monument bearing his name was raised a thousand years later, in 1834, and it still stands today.

It’s worth visiting even if just for the view of Lake Mälaren.

The glamping experience

Five glamping tents, each with historical Viking names and sleeping 2 to 4 people, are a relatively new addition to the island.

They are fenced off from the majority of visitors to ensure a degree of privacy, and situated just above the water’s edge.

The view from inside the glamping tent is so peaceful and relaxing, and offers a wonderful vista across Lake Mälaren.

Each tent is furnished with a proper bed and hotel-standard bedding, a lockable chest for your valuables, stools and a table.

Shampoo, conditioner and shower gel are all supplied, as are towels and a light, and showers and lavatories are available in a service building close to the glamping area. Or, if you’re feeling brave, take a dip in the refreshing water the Vikings bathed in via the small beach that’s en route.

As for my night’s sleep? As you know, I’ve been fortunate to stay at many lovely hotels all over the world, but I’m not exaggerating when I say this was possibly one of the best night’s sleep that I’ve had in years! I’m not sure what it was… maybe because we went to bed relatively early when night fell, or perhaps it was the soothing nature of the water lapping against the shore outside, but I slept really, really well and felt completely refreshed the next morning.

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The facilities

There is so much to see on the island. Beside the archaeological site and Ansgar Monument already mentioned, there is a museum and shop which has exhibitions and some excellent reconstructions showing life in Birka in the Viking Age. It also includes many fascinating objects that have been uncovered at the site.

Across from the museum are some full-scale reconstructions of Viking-era buildings and boats, ancient Norse crops, and livestock, to give visitors a better insight into what life was like in this earliest of Swedish settlements. This authentic reconstruction is based in part on knowledge obtained during archaeological excavations made on the island.

If you download Birka’s audio guide to your mobile phone, you can hear about Ulvar, a 10-year-old who lived in the village during the Viking Age, or about the reconstruction of the houses.

There’s even a church on the island, managed by Ekerö parish, which is open for visitors as well as Summer weddings and christenings. Bearing the Christian missionary’s name, the Ansgar Chapel, was designed by architect Lars Israel Wahlman and built in around 1930, one hundred years after the Monument of Ansgar was raised.

Finally, make sure you visit Restaurant Särimner, close to where the boat docks, where you can sit inside or out.

We had lunch there both days, enjoying locally produced food such as classic Swedish meatballs served with pickled cucumber, lingonberries, potatoes and a cream sauce, beetroot beefs served with a grey pea hummus, root vegetables and sauerkraut, or smoked salmon served with a herb sauce and roasted root vegetables, spinach and pickled red onion. And the beer comes from local breweries too.

A Viking dinner at Restaurant Särimner is included in the glamping experience, where you can enjoy Swedish dishes such as Classic Toast Skagen. This classic dish of shrimps in a creamy dressing of mayonnaise flavoured with fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon is often enjoyed as part of midsummer celebrations or on other festive occasions.

The hearty mains included dishes such as red wine braised beef cheek with root vegetable gratin and asparagus, Särimner’s fish and seafood casserole, and glazed ribs with fries, all exceptionally cooked.

An espresso crème brûlée with fresh berries was a lovely way to round off the evening as the sun set over Björkfjärden.

The location

Birka is located on Björkö Island in Lake Mälaren, approximately 30 kilometres west of Stockholm.

Other nice touches

One really lovely part of our stay was having a breakfast basket delivered in the morning. The chef had asked us the night before what we liked in the way of tea, coffee, juice, rolls, yoghurts, etc. and this was duly dropped off by quad bike the next morning. Again, the weather was kind to us so we were able to enjoy this outside.

The cost

Boat tours to Birka, which include a round trip, access to the museum and a guided tour of the ancient fields, start from just 395 SEK (approximately $40 USD) per person.

The glamping experience, which includes an overnight stay, a Viking dinner and a breakfast package, starts from 3790 SEK (around $400 USD) for a 2-person tent, or 5700 SEK (around $600 USD) for a 4-person tent. Glamping guests receive a discounted boat trip with Strömma Kanalbolaget to and from Birka. The boat trip is booked separately with the discount code received in the glamping confirmation.

The site is only easily accessible to visitors in the warmer months of the year, with a regular ferry service running from Stockholm from May to September.

The best bit

One of the really special things about glamping at Birka is having the place to yourself after all the other tourists have left. And, whilst it’s hard to pick out a stand-out feature of our glamping experience as we loved every minute of it, the Viking dinner was really lovely. There was only the four of us and the chef there, and he produced an exceptional meal for us, particularly when you consider the majority of the ingredients have to be brought on to the island. It was just so peaceful and the weather was kind to us, which meant we were able to eat outside, overlooking the water as the sun set. All very magical!

The final verdict

If you are in Stockholm, I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to Birka. It is a very special place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and of huge historical significance. But, to make your visit extra special and more memorable, I would definitely recommend that you opt for the glamping experience to fully immerse yourself into the island’s historical values, nature and spirit. It will give you more time to get to know the site and allow you to better appreciate everything that it has to offer.

Disclosure: Our visit to Birka was sponsored by Strömma Kanalbolaget and our trip was kindly supported by Visit Stockholm.

Paul Johnson

Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.

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