FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

From Sunsets on the Beach to Frozen Waterfalls

by johnw

Feb 9, 2024

My last blog was all about warm December days and family beach excursions. Well, the recent snow showers in Philadelphia unlocked the urge to escape to a cabin on a frosty mountain to hear the birds and drink hot cocoa by the fire.

Unfortunately, I’m writing this blog from my creaky desk chair in my home office and not said cabin. While I figure out this year’s getaway, join me in reminiscing celebrating life in nature’s winter wonderland last year.

Almost two years ago — wow, time flies — my fiancé and I went glamping in the Catskill Mountains in New York in late April; it was the perfect mix of real camping with a few luxuries that made me fall in love with the experience. So for his last birthday, I wanted to keep the yearly tradition and booked us a Getaway House in the Eastern Catskills. This time we opted for true glamping — each Getaway House comes packed to the brim with everything you need to feel comfortable in the woods without taking away from the connection to nature. I was slightly hesitant when booking because each Getaway campground hosts quite a large number of houses, but it was a surprisingly private experience, and I never felt inundated by anyone else’s enjoyment of the space.Catskill Mountains

We drove north through New Jersey and into the Hudson River Valley on a Tuesday at the end of February last year and arrived at our little home for the weekend mid-afternoon. Having learned from our trip last year, we decided to relax for our first night and simply grab some dinner from town. I’m not sure what it is about the two of us and our ability to find Dominican food wherever we go, but somehow we yet again managed to stumble upon some of our comfort food staples. Carting some large bags filled with stewed chicken and rice and fried sweet plantains, we spent a wonderful night enjoying our cabin and playing parcheesi, sipping Champagne and listening to an excellent retro radio station.

Of course, we didn’t drive all that way just to sit inside. My fiancé wanted to start off his 34th year in nature — so nature he got! We set out Wednesday morning bundled up in hiking boots; long underwear; and many, many layers of clothing to find Kaaterskill Falls between the hamlets of Palenville and Haines Falls on the eastern side of the Hudson. Towering 260 feet in the air, Kaaterskill is formed of two cascades falling over a horseshoe-shaped ledge and into Spruce Creek. Now because this was only March 1, the entire park was covered in snow and ice; and although it was serene and beautiful, it was also a little scary. Some of the pathways to different observation decks were just smooth slopes of ice with no purchase points whatsoever. We made it to the main part of the falls and got to feel the thunder through our bodies but could tell warmer parts of the year hold even more stunning views and opportunities in the park. This video does not do this beautiful place any justice.Catskill MountainsCatskill Mountains

Catskill Mountains

Under the Falls

What’s the first thing almost every hiker wants after their hike? That’s right, carbs! We made a beeline straight to Saugerties to stop at Buns — the Hudson Valley’s own little burger chain — for some burgers and a beer (or two) to take the edge off our hunger. We couldn’t fill up too much, though, as we had big plans for dinner that night. I may be crazy, but I was determined to make a delicious dinner, so I brought all the fixings for stewed short ribs with mashed potatoes, carrots, Brussels sprouts and onion. Again, cooking outside is not for the faint of heart! But boy does it yield some wonderful results. What’s a birthday without some cake? Somehow, someway, I managed to sneak some in the cooler and the surprise wasn’t ruined. With our bellies full and our bodies exhausted from the hike, it was easy to knock out that night.

Catskill Mountains

The Spotty Dog Books & Ale

Catskill MountainsCatskill Mountains Catskill Mountains

Sadly, this was a quick trip, and before we knew it, we were already packing up. Luckily, we were able to take advantage of the daylight and took the scenic route home. We drove down along the Hudson on Route 9A on the way home and meandered through the different towns lining the grand river. Though cold, it was a sunny day, and we felt warm enough to visit the book store, record shop, apothecary and, of course, the local coffee house. One of the things I enjoy most when visiting small towns is being reminded of the beauty found in community and a slow-paced life.

We’re trading the snowy mountains for palm trees and humidity this year; I’ll let you know how that goes.

— Yasser Ogando, executive director, media

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Dec 30, 2024

Icelandair Receives First Airbus Aircraft in Airline’s History

Earlier this month, Icelandair received delivery of its first Airbus aircraft in its 87-year history. The new Airbus A321LR is the latest addition to Icelandair’s fleet and marks the first of three A321LRs scheduled for delivery by next summer.

Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems

Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.

Daily
Dec 27, 2024

Songtsam Hotels, Resorts & Tours Opens Newest Property in Yading, China

Songtsam Hotels Resorts & Tours, a luxury boutique hotel collection located in the Tibet and Yunnan Provinces of China, recently opened its 18th and newest property, Songtsam Lodge Yading. Located in Yading Village in China’s Sichuan Province, the 40-room property is surrounded by three stunning mountains, specifically the Three Sacred Mountains of Daocheng, known for representing wisdom, compassion and courage among locals.

Daily
Dec 27, 2024

Latitud 32 at El Cielo Winery Unveils New Baja-Yucatán Fusion Menu

To celebrate its 11th anniversary, and earning a spot on the recommended restaurant list in the Michelin Guide’s historic first Mexico Selection, El Cielo Winery in Valle de Guadalupe announced the launch of its new Baja-Yucatán menu at Latitud 32. This fusion mixes the fresh, vibrant flavors of Baja California with the bold, aromatic ingredients of the Yucatán for a journey rich in taste.

Pick Your Paradise: Experience Bali at 3 Incredible Hotels

Bali is a name synonymous with island bliss. But there is more than just one side to this incredible place. Get a sense for the variety of experiences Bali offers by learning about three hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with distinctive opportunities for adventure and relaxation. With the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card, earn points for free nights at each of these properties.

Daily
Dec 27, 2024

Park Hyatt Debuts Manhattan Suite

Park Hyatt New York recently debuted its new Manhattan Suite on the hotel’s 25th floor. Stays are now available starting at $50,000 per night with a two-night minimum.

Daily
Dec 25, 2024

Burgundy, France, to Welcome New Luxury Hotel in Late 2025

Next year, France’s Burgundy wine region welcomes Château de la Commaraine, a luxury hotel situated within a 12th-century estate. This historic property will be reimagined as a 5-star hotel following a four-year restoration, complete with 37 guestrooms, on-site vineyards, spa, pool, two restaurants and a winery.

United Airlines First to Purchase Sustainable Aviation Fuel for ORD

Chicago O’Hare International Airport will soon receive sustainable aviation fuel, all thanks to United Airlines, which became the first airline to purchase SAF for use at the airport, one of the largest in the United States. Neste, a producer of SAF, will provide up to 1 million gallons of its Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel. The first supply arrived in August.

eFlyer News
Dec 25, 2024

New Curio Collection by Hilton Hotel Opens in Breckenridge, Colorado

Sage Hospitality recently welcomed Hotel Alpenrock Breckenridge, Curio Collection by Hilton, to its award-winning hotel portfolio. The reimagined hotel underwent a top-to-bottom renovation to bring upscale modernity to one of Colorado’s most beloved destinations.