Soon you will be jetting off

Soon you will be jetting off

by | Jun 11, 2020 | Uncategorized

Europe is slowly awaking from its slumber. We would like to introduce a select few regions nearby, to which you may be able to travel sooner than you may think, perhaps even in a plane!  Whilst we wait for the total lifting of travel restrictions and whilst safety and preventive health measures are being established around the World, we can’t resist sharing some ideas to get you travelling again.

Pearl of Central Europe, Hungary is a charming and unique country.

Feel like you are in Brooklyn in the heart of Budapest, rendez-vous in a coffee shop of the center, hidden away in a small side street, for a tranquil breakfast. Delight in a hot chocolate with homemade whipped cream or a fresh bowl of muesli. Then brunch in a « ruin bar », a unique place, straight out of the underground universe of New York, like a vibrant ‘bazar’, a mix between a flea market and a bohemian cafe, generally off the beaten track.

Continue your voyage far from the city, in the spectacular forest known as the city of clouds, Visegrad, which sits high above the Danube and offers incredible views.

We have all missed nature and witnessing the never-ending views over the Hungarian ‘steppes’ brings many good vibes. A visit here offers you another side to the country.

Immerse yourself in local life, cross the countryside in a horse and carriage, and enjoy this traditional art form of riding, taught to you by experienced riders.

Against all expectations, tulips are not actually from Holland…

they were imported from Turkey in the 16th century. The iconic tulips flower in Holland at the end of March, proudly showing their colors until the start of summer. Taking a bicycle and riding along country lanes through local villages is the best way to enjoy seeing the tulips. For those who simply can’t get enough or are less active, visit the gardens of KeuKenhof to see these gorgeous flowers in bloom.

Haarlem is a small authentic town full of charm. Sitting in the famous district of the bulbs, it is the historic capital of Holland. Calm, picturesque, full of flowers on display, its cobbled streets and historic buildings invite you to simply stroll around.

Not to be missed in Haarlem is the chance to enjoy a drink in an old church, wander around the market tasting fresh herring or mackerel smoked directly in front of you.

In need of space? The region of Wadden is a magnificent natural reserve which is a World Unesco site.

Situated just off the coast, the 5 islands that make up the park are a protected area ideal for relaxing.

It’s a paradise for deer, fallow deer, bighorn sheep, roes but also bulls, raptors and other rare animals.

You have already met, the press talks about it, its songs pierce our hearts, one unique island, Corsica ! Where to find many different worlds in one small place?  

The prairies of Argentina, translucent Caribbean waters, Highlands country, American ranches, African farms or the plains of Brazil… here the mountains are steep, punctured by alpine lakes, with walking trails, stunning views and of course the sea which is life here, the catch of the day will always feature on your plate. 

Either Robinson Crusoe or Shepard style, everybody will find their nest, their beach or rock.  
It’s the moment to visit as this island will most likely not be overrun this summer!

 

Croatia, enclave of the Adriatic lying between sea and mountains.
Country of contrasts, you can even reach it by car from South of France.

There are more than 700 islands lost at sea, some inhabited, which have stayed truly wild.

On the west of the country, the natural park of lakes, Plitvice is a World Unesco site. The views are outstanding. Home to 16 lakes set one below the other, from which the waters tumble down from one into the next, creating stunning waterfalls. The clear and turquoise waters, invite you to swim. Don’t give in to the urge as the pools have protected status, to conserve their wild fauna and flora which will surprise and delight you.

The Kamenjak Peninsula with its jagged coastline is home to a number of bays and beaches of exceptional beauty comprising 11 inhabited islands, with a large number of secret beaches and coves. From the cliffs – more of less high – you can dive straight into the turquoise sea.

This small natural reserve is the home of orchids many of which are rare. The absence of construction has let nature take over and go truly wild.

In the Parc National de Krka, there are a number of elevated pontoons allowing you to walk above the clear waters whilst surrounded by dense and luxuriant vegetation. The access to Skradin allows you to walk up to a spectacular waterfall where a swim is a must. The paths and bridge enable you to observe the geomorphological forms which have taken place over the centuries and the hundreds of varieties of bird, reptiles and wild cat.

 

For a dose of culture, all of the oldest towns of Croatia offer their own very unique mix of medieval history and charming seaside resort.
Our tip, stay away from the more touristic ones and enjoy the real vibe of this country of ex-Yugoslavia..
These are only a few ideas to fire up your imagination and start working on your dream.

24 hours in Jerico

24 hours in Jerico

by | May 29, 2020 | Uncategorized

Everybody at home, episode 2.
Where do you find Indian, Spanish and African influences intertwined together?
All co-existing happily to offer you a variety of experiences and surprises…..
Let’s start the day with a work of Latin American literature, which is rich and dynamic and is best represented by the Nobel prize winner in Literature, Gabriel Garcia Marquez (up here two of his most famous books). Part of the appeal of this Colombian author is that he takes us through our imagination, to explore distant Spanish speaking lands.
Never without my coffee! One of the best in the World. Of course, you already know, that Colombian coffee is legendary: noir, tinto, with or without milk, enjoyed at any time of day – in the kitchen, in the living room or on a street corner, always served in its small goblet
“And what will we eat? “
“Tamales”: little food parcels dating from the Pre-Hispanic era. The base of this specialty is corn flour or rice flour to which you add meat, vegetables, potatoes, carrots and herbs to give it a unique taste. This mix is then wrapped in a banana leaf or corn husk. To lend its smoky taste, the tamales is steam cooked. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients! In Colombia, Tamales are breakfast for some, although perhaps for us, its maybe best as a morning snack, as a Tamales first thing in the morning can be challenging……

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This morning, we relax, whilst admiring an art piece of Fernando Botero. He represents Colombian society through each of his pieces, giving a true critique of society – a mirror of the situation in his country during his lifetime, represented in his paintings and sculptures. Careful as the Maestro does not like the term ‘large’ but prefers voluptuous. Volume is for him, “a celebration of life and sensuality”.
Of course, you will need some exercise now and why not to the sound of Yuri Buenaventura, the most Francophile of Colombians, with his devilish salsa. Salsa, but also Merengue, quintessentially European, Aboriginal and African, Reggaeton with its world renown artists, Tango or of course the music of the Andes, all of which are renown worldwide in their own right. The Cumbria, the most important here, represents the cultural heritage of Colombia and gives rhythm to the lively nights of the country.
It’s important to note that Colombia – close to the equator – has no real seasons. Therefore, the sun rises and sets basically at the same time all through the year. Ensure therefore that you make time for lunch…
This one always includes a great variety of fruits and vegetables, produced abundantly all year long. Here even banana is a vegetable! Close your eyes and hear the call of the fruit seller passing through the street with his cart, « aguacateeee maduro, mango, aguacaaaate » and buy it directly from your window.
It’s too hot to go outside so stay inside in the cool and immerse yourself in Jerico! “Jericó, El Infinito Vuelo de los Dias” – a film of Catalina Mesa shown in cinemas in June 2018, Winner of the best documentary and public award Cinelatino. Catalina Mesa takes us on a journey to Jericó, a small Colombian village in the north-west of the country. She shows us a portrait of the female spirit, through twelve local women, whose lives are full of laughter but tinged with sadness at times. The film is a tribute to family first most, to an old auntie who has spent her entire life in the village, to the family members who migrated towards the city and to a generation overflowing with stories and experiences. All of these women are welcoming and open to an honest dialogue, which takes place in the privacy of their homes, so they can finally speak freely. Some of their stories can be hard to hear as the village, like most of Colombia, was touched by the military conflict. Husbands and sons, tragically killed or kidnapped in the conflict, which has left the wives to carry on alone. Even in tragedy, however humor is always present, as is music, poetry, colors and sunshine. Whilst the dialogue and the preservation of the collective memory are the strong points of this film, the beauty, energy and the openness of the characters are what makes the soul of the movie.
Tonight, we will enjoy Fish Sancocho.
This is a traditional Colombian soup.
Usually made with chicken, we present a fish version.
We ara happy to share Dominique Oudin’s recipe, Chef at the Santa Clara Hotel in Cartagena.
Gaelle is joining the team !

Gaelle is joining the team !

by | Mar 15, 2020 | Uncategorized

Looking for Charly is contagious! Yes a new Travel Consultant is sharing our passion – the same one that makes us all grow. Presenting Gaëlle Bellec who joins our independent experts, attracted by our concept and this overwhelming energy characterizing us, whatever happens around us, nationally or internationally. 

For Gaëlle, a travel is like a personal story to write.
Thanks to her previous experience in business she understands personalities, she knows how to satisfy grown up and youngsters, adapting to differences, balancing between action and contemplation. 
After living abroad – where she left her charming accent from Marseille… she still has a deep enthusiasm for the region she grew up in.
South of France has indeed an important place on the travel destination bucket list, but not only.
She will take you through Luberon lavander land ….
In a work of art field on French Riviera,
But also around the unknown Seine river and the unmissable Paris !
Until the edge of Britany cliffs, and Pink Granit coast,
Deep in the Aubrac !
Gaëlle Bellec is also an exclusive “Club Med Worldwide” Agent, including the gorgeous sailing boat.Having her in Looking For Charly, the team is delighted to share with you her expertise, her adviceand she will be able to book for you a stay everywhere on earth or at sea.
Contact us to choose your next stay in a village or your next cruise on board CLUB MED 2, benefit of a personalized service, follow up and proximity as we like to offer it.
Gaëlle is ready to share with you all her knowledge.
But be sure that these first small local escapes are only a pre taste until she can send you far, far away, to reveal many other destinations as soon as possible.
From now meet the joyous Gaëlle between Paris and Bruxelles.
24 hours in the country of ‘Lagom’……

24 hours in the country of ‘Lagom’……

by | Mar 4, 2020 | Uncategorized

Everyone at home… episode 1. Sweden.
How to spend an entire day cocooned at home
in famously laidback Swedish style!

There’s no real translation for ‘Lagom’ pronounced [lar-gom].
It simply means, not too much or not too little, instead choosing a satisfactory middle way of living – minimalist design, natural materials, seasonal ‘bio’ ingredients and a slow pace of life.

Charly’s team would like to talk you through these daily customs and rituals. Wake up slowly with what else but a Swedish exercise session. You’ll find good humor catches on quickly! Try this 60 minute workout – warm up, cardio, weight training, cardio again, stretching and relaxation, led by Veronique and Davina! Then, enjoy a classic Swedish breakfast of: bread, butter, cheese, red peppers, cucumber and ham.

Pass the morning immersed in a fascinating book, wrapped up in a soft blanket. It could be the riveting read Henning Mankell, staring detective Kurt Wallander or, “The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared” by Jonas Jonasson.

10 o’clock – time for “fika” – coffee and a cinnamon roll, “kanelbullar”, the famous Nordic pastry.

The best recipe book for these: “La Suede à dos de cuillère” by Christine Armengaud, Ed Actes Sud. It includes a fun mixture of anecdotes and recipes.

Time to think about lunch!
Tempted by Jansson’s ‘frestelse’? – the famous potato gratin with herrings – a very popular Swedish dish, usually served at Christmas, but as there’s no real sense of time at the moment, let’s go for it!

Almost 3 o’clock, let’s make the most of the rare spring sunshine! The national sport in Sweden is to get a suntan with the least amount of sun possible, whether sunbathing on the balcony or in the garden. Quick, let’s soak up that Vitamin D!  Not forgetting that in Sweden, the “Allemansratten”, access to nature is an absolute right of each individual. The land belongs to all inhabitants of this long country and Suedes make the most of their outdoors…of course for this wondering we must wait, in the meantime the green forest blossoms in our thoughts. The Suedes have a particular affinity with mother nature.

Escape your house in the afternoon whilst watching a Swedish film. Yes, Sweden does have some cool films, like “Millenium”, that will nail you to your sofa whilst you snuggle up to the multi-colored cushions!

 

And how best to finish the day than seated around the table to delight in tasting some Kottbullars: simple Swedish meatballs!

 

Baïkal on the rocks

Baïkal on the rocks

by | Nov 20, 2019 | Uncategorized

Tinged with polar magnetism, Lake Baikal and its coating of ice is a unique alternative to the bog-standard winter sports resorts. Skate into the realm of infinity…

You will feel almost euphoric as you cross the lake from west to east, debate the finer points of hockey, immortalise extraordinary moments in snapshots, skate on polished ice rinks, lunch on the pack ice, taste smoked omul and sleep in an ice camp that is the only one of its kind in Russia (and the world!).

By hovercraft, in a 4×4 and on foot you will explore frozen caves and ‘toros’, a mishmash of ice blocks that collide before your very eyes. While you immerse yourself in the frozen expanses of Lake Baikal you will meet local fishermen, visit the Buddhist temples of Irkutsk and explore the colourful wooden houses of Ulan-Ude.
After plunging into a banya (the traditional Russian sauna and plunge pool) you will board the legendary Trans-Siberian Express. Your memories of this trip will be intertwined with a sensation of purity and the great outdoors. Here are our reasons to break the ice.

A 360° dream of ice. An understandable feeling of worry creeps in when you step onto the ice field. Will the glacial icecap really take your weight?

There’s no need to fear. Ice one-meter thick separates you from the waters hibernating underneath your feet, leaving you free to make the most of the puzzling world around you.
You’ll hear the creaking and bumping of the blocks of ice and experience the magic of the light enshrouded with crystals and the air alive with the polar winter and the purity of the elements. And in this beautiful, timeless place sheltered from the world, you will come face to face with the immensity of the spaces of Siberia. It’s a real-life frontier land that John Snow would never dream of leaving.
Your eyes will be drawn to the turquoise veins, the fantastical ice shapes, the stalactites, stalagmites and air bubbles imprisoned in the ice, reminding you that the great contemporary masterpieces don’t have a patch on nature’s creations.

On the agenda:

A day at the southernmost tip of Lake Baikal

You’ll arrive at Irkutsk airport and depart for the southernmost part of Lake Baikal. A hovercraft ride over the ice will take you to the village of Listvyanka. The route will take you along the Circum-Baikal Railway, a unique monument to the architectural engineering of the end of the 19th century.

A day on Baikal’s ice in a hovercraft

Step on board the hovercraft headed to the north of the lake and the village of Maloe More. The whole journey will be on the ice, with a stop off at the sandy Peschanaya Bay, the lake’s best-known spot.

A day on Olkhon Island, the largest in Lake Baikal

Today you are headed to Khuzhir, the main village on Olkhon Island, and cape Burkhan (initially called Shamanka or Shaman Rock). It is considered a holy place for the followers of shamanism. They organise religious ceremonies and make sacrifices in the cave at Shaman Rock.

Lake Baikal, at the heart of the legend

It’s not surprising that the travel writer Sylvain Tesson erected his cabin at the heart of this icy solitude to experience voluntary exile. He said of it: “The cold, silence and solitude are states that will be more precious than gold in the future. On an overpopulated, overheated, noisy planet, a cabin in the woods is like El Dorado.”

Once you arrive in these lands reminiscent of the Ice Age, it won’t take long to understand why Lake Baikal is a “sacred sea” for the native peoples. The Buryats, who are of Mongolian origin, believe that Olkhon Island in the middle of Lake Baikal is the residence of Burkhan (“God” in Mongolic languages). Balanced between Buddhist traditions and Shamanistic beliefs, it is at the centre of innumerable spiritual rites that help the being transcend to internal harmony.

“Baikal should crush a man with its majesty and size; there everything is vast, free and spectacular.

But, to the contrary, it lifts him up.” (Valentin Rasputin).

Your discovery continues:

A day and a night at the Ice Camp

Imagine yourself in an authentic ice camp in the middle of a frozen lake. The magnetically beautiful landscape around you stretches to the horizon. You won’t find any other tourists here. They are all in Red Square. The only people here are a handful of photographers, adventurers and scientists. Only the dull roar of the ice field breaks the spellbinding silence of the white desert. That’s because you are on Lake Baikal, at the outer limits of eastern Russia (or even of the world), far away from civilisation and all your points of reference. The real Siberian adventure, reserved for a handful of travellers, is only just beginning.

A day crossing Lake Baikal to experience the pace of life in a Baikal village

You will make the most of the camp activities and the surrounding wonders before starting your journey to Ust-Barguzin to experience village life. You will cook, walk, share and rest, and if you are the active kind then you have the option to discover the snowy forests of the taiga to look for flora and fauna with an experienced local hunter and wide skis on your feet.

A day along the east coast of Lake Baikal to prioritise your wellbeing

Your options include crossing Chivyrkuysky Bay, swimming in the thermal springs at Zmeinaya Bay and experiencing the waters with their healing properties at Khakusy thermal health resort, where you can draw on the energy of the natural environment.

Lake Baikal? It’s more than a lake: it’s an inland sea Nestled at the heart of mountains, high cliffs and forests, Lake Baikal is a magnet for superlatives. Its surface area (636 km long and 79 km wide) makes it the largest freshwater lake in the world (it’s as big as Belgium!).

And that’s not all. You might not know it yet, but under your feet and the sparkling surface of the ice field are thousands of cubic metres of water leading down into the abyss. Lake Baikal isn’t just one of the oldest lakes on the planet (born 25 million years ago), it is also the deepest in the world (1637 metres deep in some places).
Its huge size and unique biodiversity saw it classed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

To finish:

A day in Ulan-Ude, the capital of Buryatia. You will cross the taiga to reach Ulan-Ude where you are invited to visit Ivolginsky Datsan, a group of Buddhist temples and the centre of Buddhism in Russia located outside the town on the breath-taking steppe.

A day and night on the Baikal-Amur Mainline (BAM)

From the town of Severobaikalsk, you will spend a day and a night on board the train on the famous BAM route, one of the longest train lines in the world. Construction started in 1938 and it stretches 4287 km in total. At Tayshet, the BAM meets the legendary Trans-Siberian Express and continues northwards. This line was mostly built by prisoners from forced labour camps, then by volunteers. You will have the chance to see a part of Russia’s history with your own eyes.

Getting there

The best time to visit: February and March

Around a 13-hour flight from Nice/Paris to Irkutsk via Moscow with Aeroflot

Cost:
Between €2600 and €4200 for a 7 to 12-day itinerary as part of a group
Around €8000 to €15,000 per person (based on two travellers) for a tailored package

Don’t delay, as spots at the Ice Camp are limited