JP Brownlow Travel

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JP Brownlow Travel

I’m a travel advisor who specializes in Active & Cultural Travel all over the world.
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I create experiences for people who want to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and flavors of a new place without roughing it.

11/15/2024

She Believed in Me from the
Very Beginning

This week I celebrated four years in business as a luxury travel advisor. It all began during a global pandemic when many thought I was a little nuts to make this career change when no one was traveling.

But there was one person who believed in me from the very beginning. My sweet wife DeeAnn said “I believe in this so much I am willing to leave my school nurse job and go back to the hospital while you start your business and have no income. Just you wait and see, three years from now this is going to be wonderful.”

And four years later, it has been wonderful! While I am working more hours and spending my days dealing with canceled flights, train strikes and solving problems, I wouldn’t trade it for anything. The smiles on my clients faces when they return home make it all worthwhile.

In addition to DeeAnn, I want to thank Keith Waldon and everyone at Departure Lounge for taking a chance on me. I also want to thank my suppliers around the world who make the magic happen everyday.

And finally I want to thank my clients who have entrusted me with their time and money to bring their travel dreams to life. Serving you gives me true joy!

11/04/2024

St. Andrews - The Home of Golf

The St. Andrews Old Course is the oldest golf course in the world, with a written history dating back to the year 1400.

While it is actually also a public course, that doesn’t mean it’s easy to get on. My golf specialist is an official partner with the R&A (The Royal & Ancient Golf Club),
and can get guaranteed tee times, but it can be a year 1-2 wait time.

If you don’t need to play the course, you can have a great visit anytime. We walked the edge of the Old course and I even got my photo on the Swilcan Bridge.

We had lunch at The Jigger Inn, “the most famous 19th hole in the world”. The building dates back to 1852 and was originally the station master’s house for the railway station. I had fish & chips and a pint and felt right at home.

Then we explored the nearby fishing village of Ansthruther with quaint houses and boats in the harbor.

My trip has come to an end, but we can start planning your own bucketlist trip to Scotland in 2025!

11/02/2024

Scotland Road Trip - Royals, Hairy Coos and Nessie

Only 15 minutes from Braemar in the Scottish Highlands is Balmoral Castle, the summer home of the British Royal Family and the one place where Queen Elizabeth was truly at home. She was known to ride the estate horseback and drive her Range Rover all over.

After an overnight in Inverness, my guide Ian and I headed south through several picturesque villages before the seeing the most beloved animal in Scotland: the Hairy Coo. Also known as Highland Cows, these lovable long haired cattle have reddish coats and long horns.

Then we finished the day at Loch Ness, the largest body of water in the UK and home of the Loch Ness Monster. Hearing my guide talk about Nessie, a stranger asked “When does the monster usually appear?” He politely told him “after your fourth whisky”.

Seriously, though, the lake is beautiful and the Nessie stories just add to the aura of the place. Scotland’s landscapes are nothing short of awe-inspiring with rugged mountains, deep lochs and rolling green hills as far as the eye can see.

We’re coming to the end of this amazing trip, but there’s still a few surprises coming up!

10/31/2024

Fife Arms Hotel in Braemar, Scotland

This is the classic Highland hunting lodge turned into a jewel box of a hotel, exactly what you think of when you dream about a country hotel in Scotland.

Built in the 1800’s in the quaint village of Braemar, this over the top Victorian lodge on the river will transport you to another time.

Every one of the 46 rooms are different and feature original antiques, plush carpets and tartan plaid everywhere.

The hotel restaurant, the Flying Stag, is the social center of town and features an innovative menu plus pub classics. They have the largest whisky collection in the Highlands, with 365 different varieties, one for each day of the year.

Because the Swiss owners are from the art world, there are even two original Picasso paintings in the lobby. It’s a feast for the eyes and every time you come in you see something different.

If you’ve been dreaming about Scotland, contact me today to start planing your own bucket list trip today.

The Fife Arms

10/29/2024

Gleneagles Scotland

At the edge of the Scottish Highlands lies Gleneagles, one of the 50 Best Hotels in the World and known as the “Glorious Playground”.

Gleneagles is a 100 year old country estate, a rural adventure for couples and families that is a luxury hotel, spa and golfing destination plus home to countless outdoor activities.

At over 850 acres, there is something for everyone: falconry, gun dogs, hiking, biking, fishing, golfing, horseback riding,
tennis, Land Rover driving school plus so much more.

I am at Gleneagles with a select group of travel advisors and then will be exploring this beautiful country all the way up to Inverness, down to Fort William and Oban and finally finishing up in Edinburgh.

Join me every other day this week as I show you the best of Scotland.

Gleneagles

10/08/2024

Departure Lounge Annual Conference

I am in Cancun, Mexico this week for my host agency’s annual meeting. Over 100 preferred partners (hotels, cruise lines, safari outfitters and destination specialists) are present for training and one on one meetings.

This is where the magic is born for our clients because the time we invest in relationship building elevates every trip we plan for our clients.

Let me know if there is a destination or experience you would like me to prioritize this week.

Departure Lounge
Waldorf Astoria Cancun

09/29/2024

Training at Viking Cruises Headquarters

I was one of only 32 travel advisors nationwide invited to training at the Viking corporate offices in Woodland Hills CA this weekend.

Michele Saegesser, VP of Sales for Viking, trained us on product knowledge, company values and marketing tactics. It was a wonderful weekend and I come home today with expanded knowledge in River, Ocean and Expedition cruises.

As a Virtuoso advisor, booking through me gets you shipboard credits of $100 per person for River and $200 for Ocean, all at the same prices you would pay booking direct.

09/25/2024

Happy National Daughter’s Day to my sweet Isabella! I love you so much!

09/14/2024

Four Seasons Resort Hualālai

The last stop on our visit of Four Seasons properties in Hawaii was to the Kona Coast on the Big Island.

At over 800 oceanfront acres, Hualalai looks very different than the others. Rather than a sleek block style building, it features only 2 story bungalow units nestled amongst the coconut trees.

The rooms feature plantation style design with dark woods, slate floors and textured rugs and sofas. An authentic Hawaiian heritage is presented throughout the resort in framed prints and design motifs.

That same theme is reinforced with classes and demonstrations of Hawaiian culture. I joined Auntie Kaulu and Auntie Kaleolani for a ti leaf lei making class that was fantastic. As we made these green leaf leis, they told stories of their ancestors that are keeping ancient traditions alive.

With 8 pools and 5 restaurants, you can try something new every day. But the secret sauce of the resort is the warm and attentive service that only Four Seasons can provide.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

09/13/2024

Four Seasons Resort Ko Olina at Oahu

09/12/2024

Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

While the thought of staying on Oahu makes some cringe with thoughts of the craziness of urban Waikiki, there is actually a much better way to stay on this island.

Just 45 minutes away is the Four Seasons Resort at Ko Olina, an oasis of peace that gives you the best of both worlds.

Enjoy Pearl Harbor, Ala Moana shopping and the energy of Waikiki for part of the day and when it all gets to be too much, escape to the quiet beach, great restaurants and refined service only Four Seasons can deliver.

We tried Mina’s Fish House at sunset and after a wonderful meal, lingered over drinks and great conversation. The next day we found our bliss at the sleek infinity pool that looked out over the Pacific.

As a luxury travel advisor, I can plan special access to Pearl Harbor, arrange an ATV tour of Jurassic Valley or get you on a sunset catamaran.

Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu at Ko Olina

09/10/2024

Four Seasons Maui at Wailea

I was invited by Four Seasons to join select travel advisors and visit three of their properties in Hawaii: Maui, Ko Olina on Oahu and Hualalai on the Big Island.

Maui was our first stop and made a strong first impression. Located at the south end of the island, this spot gets much less rain than Kapalua in the north.

While this is a true luxury resort with the prices to match, there is no resort fee and there are free activities each day that emphasize Hawaiian culture and give added value.

The old clunky and dark furniture has been taken out in favor of soothing neutral tones with pops of Hawaiian color. The Four Seasons beds are legendary for their comfort and the bathrooms are big with lots of marble and double sinks.

With multiple pools, a nice spa and a true sandy beach, there is truly something for everyone. Dining is strong as well and features Italian, Steakhouse and even a Spago with killer views.

While you can book this special hotel yourself, booking with me gets you free breakfast for two, $100 resort credit and top of the list for upgrades.

Join me later in the week as I visit the other two Four seasons properties on Oahu and the Big Island.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

08/26/2024

Restaurant Review: Mr. Max Japanese

I had been hearing about this authentic Japanese restaurant in a sketchy strip center in old Irving and decided to bring along DeeAnn, Isabella and her friend.

It looked pretty grim as we pulled into the parking lot with questionable businesses.
Mr. Max had ultra dark windows where you couldn’t see what was going on inside. DeeAnn was convinced this was the Dallas home of the Japanese Yakuza (mafia) and that we should call it off.

I persisted and marched us all in the front door not knowing what was coming next. We couldn’t believe our eyes as we walked in. It was as if we had been transported to Tokyo to a local joint where people were laughing and having a good time.

Mr. Max is an “Izakaya”, which loosely translates to neighborhood pub or tavern.
These establishments serve small plates served family style and beer and sake. We were instructed to take off our shoes and sat at a low slung table.

The menu was on the walls in Japanese with English translations so the waitress helped us order. Almost as soon as we said
“Kanpai” (Cheers), we had an awesome array of tasty items: halibut sashimi, Kobe Beef skewers, Miso Ramen and hamachi yellowtail tuna.

After chowing down on that, we ordered Japanese style chicken wings, fried tempura shrimp and Takowasa, which was raw octopus with wasabi. Despite the rough exterior, Mr. Max delivered big time with great food, authentic decor and warm service.

08/19/2024

The Irish Wolfhounds of Ashford Castle

With over 350 acres of rolling hills and ancient woodlands, 800 year old Ashford Castle offers an amazing array of activities:
horseback riding, falconry, fishing, shooting sports, golf, cycling, spa and so much more.

Despite all these choices, what is it people want to do the most? See Mulligan & Molly
the famous Irish Wolfhounds!

This breed is the world’s tallest dog at 3ft tall on all fours and over 7ft tall on their hind legs. These gentle giants at Ashford weigh in at 165 pounds.

Irish Wolfhounds have always been associated with kings, chieftains and castles. There is even evidence of them being owned by Roman emperors, who used them for sport and security.

You can join Mulligan & Molly on a morning dog walk at 8:15am or if you oversleep, they make an appearance at Oak Hall from 10-11am.

My connections at Ashford Castle can get you free breakfast for two, hotel credits and top of the list for upgrades and early check in/late checkout.

08/16/2024

Restaurant Review: Ribbee’s BBQ

Many of you are aware of the stellar rise of Goldee’s BBQ south of Fort Worth as it rocketed to the #1 spot on the Texas Monthly Top BBQ joints in Texas.

The owners of this venerable joint have opened a new place that takes quite a different approach to BBQ: Ribs only.

Out of an old Sonic that has now been painted fire house red, you get 4-5 meaty baby back ribs, french fries, cole slaw and a canned drink for only $20. That is the entire menu.

If you are into fancy Gruyère Mac & Cheese or Black Pepper & Garlic Sausage, this is not your place. There is not a deep menu, but there are 6 types of ribs to choose from: Old School, Golden, Dry Rub, Sweet & Spicy, Hot Honey and Nashville Hot.

While there wasn’t the strongest smoky taste, the ribs were pretty good and you will especially enjoy them if you like wet and saucy style ribs.

One other thing that was missing from Goldee’s: the three hour wait. We waited in line only 5 minutes and had sauce on our face in 10 minutes flat.

So if you are okay with a focused menu that is served quickly and at a great price, head to Fort Worth for a meal that will truly stick to your ribs!

Ribbee’s / Thursday - Sunday 11-8
923 East Seminary Dr
Fort Worth TX

08/12/2024

A Sweet Ending to the Paris Olympics

As the Olympics come to a close, I want to leave you with a must see stop on your next trip to Paris. Stohrer is the oldest patisserie in Paris and was founded in 1730 by King Louis XV’s pastry chef, Nicolas Stohrer.

Even the shop itself is a work of art and its lavish decor was designed by a student of Paul Baudry, who decorated the Opera Garnier.

The shop’s most famous creation is the world famous Rum Baba, which is the only dessert item on the menu at all 19 of Alain Ducasse’s restaurants around the world.

Nicolas Stohrer also made amazing puits d’amour (“wells of love”) and the beloved French “Religieuses”, which is a traditional pastry that looks like a nun.

You too can visit this temple of pastries, which is located on Rue Montorgueil in the 1st Arrondissement. Pro Tip: go to this street on an empty stomach as it is a food wonderland with more cheese, fish, fruit, wine and deli shops than you can shake a baguette at. Bon Appetit!

Address

1560 E. Southlake Boulevard Suite #100
Southlake, TX
76092

Website

http://jpbrownlowtravel.com/

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Four Seasons Resort Ko Olina st Oahu

Four Seasons Resort Ko Olina at Oahu

Gleneagles Hotel Scotland

An iconic country estate, Gleneagles has been a luxury hotel destination for nearly a century. Located just an hour’s drive from Glasgow and Edinburgh airports, it offers the perfect five-star retreat for those looking for relaxation and adventure in every season. The 850-acre estate epitomizes Scotland’s rugged natural beauty with a glorious playground of pursuits. Whether you visit to play three championship golf courses, try falconry with a Harris hawk, ride horses, play tennis, go off-roading, train gundogs, enjoy Michelin-starred dining, or relax in an award-winning spa, Gleneagles offers a world of unforgettable experiences. For the best upgrades and complimentary VIP amenities, reserve your stay at Gleneagles with me. #scotland #luxuryscotland #golf #loveglen #thegloriousplayground #familytravel #luxury travel #luxuryresorts #kilts #outlander #royalscotsman #edinburgh #glasgow #gleneagles

The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resort Collection, is a contemporary luxury resort set on a 3,500-acre ranch near Park City, Utah. Echoing the majestic landscape with an organic, contemporary design, The Lodge at Blue Sky is a mountain retreat for couples and families seeking an upscale ranch experience and to reconnect with nature. Inspiring outdoor adventures span Blue Sky’s massive property. Guests looking to go off the beaten path enjoy exclusive access to 200,000 acres of terrain in the Uinta mountain range for heli-hiking, heli-mountain biking, heli-fly-fishing, and heli-skiing/snowboarding. Guests can choose from three accommodation styles: the high-ceilinged Sky Lodge, the lush canyon-view Earth Suites, or the five riverside Creek Houses. #thelodgeatbluesky #luxurytravel #luxurylodges #Utah #ParkCity #ParkCityUtah #ranchlife #luxuryranch #natureresorts #luxuryresorts #virtuosotravel

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club is Orange County's unmatched luxury resort overlooking the azure waters of the Pacific, in the charming city of Dana Point. This coastal playground offers guests exclusive activities and inspiring experiences that embody Southern California's serene coastal lifestyle. From the private Monarch Bay Beach Club, the quintessential California beach experience; the oceanfront Monarch Beach Golf Links; and restorative spa services; to water sports and Ocean Adventure Programs; and seven dining concepts, discover the allure of Orange County's premier luxury resort. For the best complimentary upgrades and VIP perks, reserve your stay with me. #WAMonarchBeach #WaldorfAstoria #beachvacation #beach #southerncalifornia #California #monarchbeach #luxurytravel #beachresort #danapoint #golf #virtuosotravel

With its palm trees, private plunge pools, and picturesque views of the Pacific, Conrad Punta de Mita is one of those places you dream about. The 324-room paradise offers everything from handcrafted cocktails on the beach to locally-inspired dishes like Pescado Zarandeado at the resort’s four distinct restaurants. More indulgent moments await at the indoor-outdoor spa, featuring a roster of rejuvenating treatments aligned with the traditional Huichol philosophy of inner peace and transformation. The rooms and suites are gorgeously appointed with impressive artwork. For the best complimentary upgrades and perks, reserve your stay with me. #conradpuntademita #virtuosotravel #luxurytravel #mexico #luxurymexico #mexicoresorts #mexicobeaches #PVR #puertovallarta #travel #beach #sea #vacation #sunset #luxuryresorts #mexicohotels

NIZUC Resort & Spa - Cancun, Mexico

If you’re dreaming about travel over the Thanksgiving weekend, look no further than the NIZUC Resort & Spa in Cancun. This beautiful resort is positioned on one of the most alluring beaches facing the Mesosmerican Barrier Reef. It offers 274 luxurious suites on it’s 29 acre property. Guests can enjoy the resort’s 109 pools, 6 world class restaurants, private jetty and 30,000 square foot spa. For the best complimentary upgrades and perks, reserve your stay with me.

The Brando, Marlon Brando’s former Polynesian home, is the only truly all-inclusive luxury resort within the islands of Tahiti. The eco-friendly Brando fuses carefree luxury with cutting-edge technology in 35 welcoming villas on private beaches and with plunge pools. You can explore a biodiverse natural sanctuary, take a tour or a photo safari, learn Polynesian dance or how to play the ukulele, take part in plentiful water sports, or receive holistic spa treatments. Incredible restaurant offerings include the casual Beachcomber Café, teppanyaki at Nami, and Les Mutinés, the intimate fine-dining experience. My clients receive a special resort credit and amenities. @thebrando

Set in the heart of this charming artists’ village, Rosewood San Miguel de Allende promises a stay fit for dignitaries. Accommodations include 67 guest rooms and 8 private villas. Our clients appreciate its fine Mexican craftsmanship. The rooms are decorated with stunning wood-beamed ceilings and private balconies or terraces, and most have fireplaces. Taste innovative cuisine from 1826 Restaurant’s open artisan kitchen, then whip up your own in on-site cooking classes. Relax poolside or at Sense, A Rosewood Spa®, while the children are entertained with daily hands-on activities at the kids’ club. For the best rates, complimentary upgrades and perks, reserve your stay with me.

Settled more than 150 years ago by Bishop Jean Baptiste Lamy, this iconic Santa Fe landmark is steeped in history and has just completed a a sensitive restoration to preserve its distinctive Southwestern heritage for the next generation. Inhale the earthy scent of peppers charring on the wood-fired grill, appreciate the bountiful, vibrant red chilies presented to each table by the property’s Chile Host, and delight in the bright tang of a craft mescal cocktail at The Bar. Textured and multi-layered, the cuisine at Bishop's Lodge will send you home with memories to cherish for years to come. Part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, Bishop’s Lodge has just reopened and provides my clients with special complimentary upgrades and perks.

An intimate world-class retreat, Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi celebrates the enduring creative spirit of the region’s early Native Americans and the rich heritage of the city’s Spanish founders. Set in the cultural heart of New Mexico’s capital, the inn is situated just steps from the city’s galleries, shops, museums, and the historic Santa Fe Plaza. The 57 rooms and 1 suite, all with handcrafted textiles, beamed ceilings, and gas-lit kiva fireplaces, provide a homey atmosphere. Dine in the award-winning Anasazi Restaurant or Bar, enjoy alfresco dining on The Patio, or escape to The Wine Cellar for a private, candlelit dinner. For the best rates, complimentary upgrades and perks, reserve your stay with me.

A client favorite, Rosewood Baha Mar is a serene sanctuary for the discerning traveler on Nassau’s Cable Beach. Set along 3,000 feet of that famous white-sand beach, the resort boasts personal, sincere service, exquisite accommodations (including beachside villas), authentic dining experiences, a full-service Sense® spa, and a vast selection of leisure activities on land and at sea. Guests can tee off on the Jack Nicklaus signature course, volley on the tennis courts, and gather in well-appointed beach cabanas for conversation and beachfront cocktails. The design touches are truly special throughout the hotel. For the best rates, complimentary upgrades and perks, reserve your stay with me.

Surrounded by 14,000-foot peaks, Madeline Hotel & Resort in Telluride, Colorado exudes intimate elegance in the Colorado high country. Enjoy seasonal activities in style with a destination concierge to help recommend great hiking, arrange guided fly-fishing or jeep tours, or coordinate attendance at one of Telluride’s famous cultural festivals. Unwind at the end of the day with an alpine-inspired massage at the spa or a swim in the outdoor pool. For the best value, upgrades and complimentary perks, reserve your stay at Madeline Hotel & Residence with me.

Since its beginning in 1929 as a winter retreat for a prominent New York family, the Royal Palms Resort has offered generations of guests the intimate atmosphere of a luxurious private residence along with the amenities of an award-winning resort. Nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain between Scottsdale and Phoenix, this enchanting Spanish Mediterranean mansion offers 119 newly renovated guest rooms, casitas, suites, and villas. On every stroll through the resort's winding pathways, guests will discover romantic nooks, crackling fireplaces, splashing courtyard fountains, and treasures from the original owners' worldwide travels. For the best values, upgrades and complimentary perks at Royal Palms Resort and Spa, reserve your stay with me.

Aspen’s historic Hotel Jerome, an Auberge Resort embodies the essence of elevated Rocky Mountain living. The hotel is located in the heart of town and features a mix of contemporary and authentic Western furnishings, modern luxuries, historic charm, and dining options that highlight local cuisine. For the best values, upgrades and complimentary upgrades at Hotel Jerome, reserve your stay with me.