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Why Victoria Falls River Lodge Is One of the Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Zimbabwe
If you’re researching Victoria Falls safari lodges, comparing luxury safari accommodations in Zimbabwe, or trying to decide between Costco Travel safari packages and independent bookings, Victoria Falls River Lodge is one of the most recommended properties in the region — and for good reason.
We spent two nights at this award‑winning lodge as part of a longer Southern Africa itinerary, and it quickly became one of the most memorable parts of our entire trip. From spacious riverfront villas and exceptional safari guides to healthy meals, sunset river cruises, and serene open‑air workouts, this lodge blends luxury, wildlife, and comfort in a way that feels effortless.
Below is our complete review of Victoria Falls River Lodge — what we loved, what surprised us, and everything we wish we knew before arriving.
Family Villa #2: A Private Riverfront Retreat
We stayed in Family Villa #2, which felt like a private sanctuary on the banks of the Zambezi River. The villa is spacious, beautifully designed, and ideal for couples, families, or small groups.
In a world where convenience often comes at a price, finding a free and time-saving solution while traveling is a true win. Enter CLEAR, a biometric travel document verification system that's revolutionizing the way travelers navigate security checkpoints at airports and even stadiums. While CLEAR traditionally operates as a paid annual membership, it now offers a free Reserve service at select airports. In this blog post, we'll explore how CLEAR's Reserve service works and which airports participate in this program. We'll also take a look at how TSA PreCheck and Global Entry fit into the mix. Find links to these services at the end of this post.
CLEAR's Reserve Service: A Game-Changer for Travelers
CLEAR's Reserve service allows travelers to access a dedicated lane at security checkpoints, making the airport experience faster and more convenient. The service is available at 20 airports across the USA, Canada, and even some international locations in Europe. Travelers can reserve a check-in time for flights departing between 6:30 am and 8:30 pm, with the dedicated lane open from 5:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use CLEAR's Reserve service:
Click on your departure airport.
Enter your flight details and specify the number of passengers in your group (up to 10, and they must all go through the line at the same time).
Select a convenient time to go through security.
Once your reservation is confirmed, you'll receive an email containing your QR code.
At your chosen time, simply enter the Reserve Lane and scan your QR code.
This water bottle tote is one of our favorite antitheft travel items! It has an antitheft pocket for protecting your essentials on shore!
While you'll still need to send your bags through the scanner like everyone else, you'll be able to bypass the long ID lines, saving you valuable time and frustration.
Participating Airports:
CLEAR's Reserve service is available at various airports, including:
In the USA:
Denver (DEN)
Los Angeles (LAX)
Miami (MIA)
Minneapolis (MSP)
Newark (EWR)
New York (JFK)
Orlando (MCO)
Phoenix (PHX)
Seattle (SEA)
In Canada:
Calgary (YYC)
Edmonton (YEG)
Montreal (YUL)
Toronto (YYZ)
Vancouver Airport (YVR)
In Europe (for travelers from the USA):
Amsterdam (AMS)
Berlin (BER)
Frankfurt (FRA)
Hannover (HAJ)
Keflavík (REK)
Rome (FCO)
Please note that this free Reserve service is not available for TSA Pre-Check or CLEAR+ passengers.
Understanding TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR+
When it comes to expediting your airport experience, several programs are designed to make your journey smoother. It's essential to understand the key differences and benefits of these programs:
TSA PreCheck:
TSA PreCheck is a program offered by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States.
For a fee of $78, you can obtain a 5-year membership.
TSA PreCheck allows you to go through a dedicated security lane where you won't need to remove your shoes, belts, or take out laptops and liquids from your bag.
It's a fantastic option for domestic travelers looking to save time and reduce hassles at security checkpoints.
Global Entry:
Global Entry is a program offered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and is designed for international travelers.
It includes all the benefits of TSA PreCheck.
Additionally, Global Entry provides expedited customs and immigration clearance when arriving in the United States from abroad.
The cost of Global Entry is $100 for a 5-year membership, and it's an excellent choice for frequent international travelers.
CLEAR+:
CLEAR+ is a premium version of the CLEAR membership, which costs $189 annually.
It offers quick ID verification through an eye scan or fingerprints.
CLEAR+ can be used in conjunction with TSA PreCheck to further expedite your airport experience.
Pro Tip: Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits. So, if you're a frequent international traveler, Global Entry might be the most comprehensive option for you, combining the convenience of TSA PreCheck with seamless customs and immigration clearance.
CLEAR's Reserve service is a game-changer for travelers seeking a faster and more convenient airport experience. With the ability to reserve a dedicated lane at security checkpoints for free, you can save valuable time and minimize the frustration often associated with airport travel. Whether you're flying within the USA, Canada, or select European airports, CLEAR's Reserve service can help streamline your journey and make your next trip a breeze. So, next time you're heading to the airport, consider giving CLEAR Reserve a try and experience the joy of skipping those long lines. Safe travels!
There is a strong rumor that AMEX will relocate their lounge to the La Guardia arrivals and departures hall once renovations at La Guardia (LGA)are complete. This makes a lot of sense, as the lounge could be easily accessed by passengers that are departing or arriving from either concourse, east and west and because this lounge is in serious need of an expansion and facelift.
1. Location
You’ll find the LGA Centurion Lounge pre-security on the 3rd floor between Concourse B and C — if you’re flying from any other terminal, a Route A or B airport shuttle is available on the arrivals level that can take you to this section of the airport. Don’t forget that you’ll still have to clear security after visiting this lounge, so keep an eye on the TV in the dining room to see how long the security line is. The agent will give you advice on how long to give yourself to get to your gate even without asking.
It is difficult to find this lounge but there are signs telling you where to go and we found anyone working at the airport can tell you directions.
When you arrive to the entrance you will think you are in the wrong place since it looks like an employee area back hall.
2. Checkin
This is no difference from other Centurion Lounges. Be sure to ask the agent how long it will take you to get through security to your gate, but as we said before, they will most likely tell you without asking. We have been to this lounge when it is extremely crowded due to weather cancellations, and if you notice it is crowded, ask the agent to help find you a seat. There are no special services, like manicures or massages at DFW, so there is no need to ask.
3. Seating
There are only 110 seats in this small lounge, and as we said, on a busy day of cancellations, between families and luggage, the seats can fill pretty quickly. On this day, there was plenty of seats though the lunch time hour on a weekday. There is an area with a few couches, many tables and chairs and a bar. There are many outlets here, including in the floor if you need them. A children's play area is near the entrance and a long line of couches with a few televisions along the connecting hall.
4. Bar
The usual premium alcohol selections are available at the bar: "Enjoy a cocktail developed by one of the nation's top mixologists, Jim Meehan, or explore wines handpicked by renowned wine authority Anthony Giglio." We enjoyed champagne and a Bloody Mary.
5. Food
Although the food was delicious, we found the number of food offerings at this location to not be as plentiful as at other Centurion Lounges. Food at this lounge is planned by one of Zagat’s top 30 under 30 chefs, Cédric Vongerichten. The buffet was squeaky clean and service to collect your dishware.
6. Restrooms
There is no difference here, except the restrooms are small and have the typical L'Occitane products.
7. Amenities
Not as plentiful as other locations, computers, a printer, newspapers and magazines are available for you should you need them. These are located near the entrance. The video screens of security lines near the restrooms are a nice touch.
Sometimes you are traveling and you cannot watch your things closely. Of course we think of the Centurion Lounge as a safe zone, that may not always be the case. We always recommend traveling with a system that you can secure your valuables to a fixed object. The Triple Security Lock from Lewis & Clark is a great and lightweight way to do that. Click The Image Below and support our blog with More information at Amazon:
Bottom Line:
Although not the best Centurion Lounge, we still believe the lounges by American Express allow for the best meal experience of all with the exception of the Priority Pass Restaurant offerings of which there are 29 nationwide. If you want a meal, first check if Priority Pass has a restaurant at your departure or arrival airport, and if not, head to any available Centurion Lounge. If you just want to relax and have cocktails, the Centurion Lounge is probably your best option. We certainly hope the rumors that this lounge will be moved and enlarged are true!
When Traveling through DFW use your American Express Platinum Card to gain Access to the Centurion Lounge Near Gate D12 for a good meal and refreshment before your flight.
It is worth taking the Skylink to this location if you have time. Allow 10 minutes walk and time for Skylink to get to the Centurion lounge if you are not arriving or departing from D Terminal.
Access wholesale hotel rates and other services with a free one-year membership to Club1 Hotels
LuxuryTravelDocs joined Club1 Hotels, which is a luxury travel booking site for members only and Club1 Hotels are inviting you to join free too! Club1 Hotels is a membership service which has been around for a few years and is continuing its free membership that has been offered in 2016, 2017, and 2018. Normally this membership costs $99. It offers access to discount and wholesale rates at hotels globally. LuxuryTravelDocs (LTD) has used this service in the past and saved money on hotels, especially at the last minute. Club1 is trying to expand to other services and seems to be evolving what is offered but we still find the hotel options to be the best part of this membership.
Why don’t you join too? We gain nothing from you joining, our purpose is only to provide you with information! It is free for a year, you don’t need a credit card to join and can leave at any time. There really is nothing to lose and everything to gain! There is usually a fee of at least $99 for the membership, so sign up and enjoy this FREE One Year Membership deal.
We signed up last month and accessed the Members only site right away. Last month for a trip to Austin, TX we were able to save over $50 per night for the JW Marriott, 1 month before traveling. Regular LTD readers know that we love a luxury bargain. Club1 Hotels offer real hotel deals with guaranteed savings. Their search engine finds the deals with different promo codes. It's pretty interesting how it works.
Club1 Hotels offer real hotel deals with guaranteed savings
Visit Helsinki! Summer in Finland is warm, bright and exhilarating. Most importantly, the air is fresh, clean, and pure and invigorating at all times of the year.
Helsinki doesn’t often appear on travelers’ bucket lists. Even those who dream of exploring Scandinavia usually defer to Norway’s fjords or Sweden’s cities, but Finland’s capital is a destination in itself — and one that’s on the rise.
What is the condensed history of this great European Capital?
Sweden’s King Gustavus Vasa founded Helsinki on the mouth of Vantaanjoki River in 1550 to compete with Tallinn for Baltic Sea trade. The town grew slowly however, and the center of Helsinki was moved to its current location in the 1600s.
In 1748 Sweden began construction of the Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress off the coast of Helsinki to counter the growing threat from Russia. The massive project brought additional wealth, inhabitants and merchants to the town.
Russia conquered Finland in 1809. The status of Helsinki was raised to capital of the autonomous Grand Duchy of Finland three years later. A monumental Empire-style city plan was drawn up to reflect the power of Russia and the Tsar.
Finland became independent in 1917, and Helsinki assumed the demanding new role of capital of the young republic. City planning was characterized by Classicism and Functionalism.
During World War II, Finland was in many ways a unique case: It was the only European country bordering the Soviet Union in 1939 which was still unoccupied by 1945. Of all the European countries fighting, only three European capitals were never occupied: Moscow, London and Helsinki.
Recovering from the hardships of war, Helsinki hosted the Summer Olympics in 1952. The games created an international reputation for Helsinki as an efficient and friendly host city.
With stark differences between seasons, Finns are used to contrasts. Dark Arctic winters have their counterpart in one of the most iconic of Finnish natural phenomena, the Midnight Sun.
Many wonder how Finns survive with no sunlight in the winter, and nature replies with 24 hours of it in the summer. The intense contrast in light conditions has a profound effect on all walks of life in Finland.
For understandable reasons, public spaces come to life in the summer. After the harsh winter, endless daylight never arrives a day too early. Summer in Finland is a time spent outside the house enjoying the short but sweet season, and all worries are postponed until nights get dark again.
Often considered to be Finland's only metropolis, it is the world's northernmost metro area with over one million people as well as the northernmost capital of an EU member state. After Stockholm and Oslo, Helsinki is the third largest city in the Nordic countries.
Helsinki is a thriving city, being named the "World's Design Capital" in 2012 and as a leader in the online gaming industry, among so much more!
Visit Helsinki! Summer in Finland is warm, bright and exhilarating. Most importantly, the air is fresh, clean, and pure and invigorating at all times of the year.
"Conspicuous consumption of valuable goods is a means of reputability to the gentleman of leisure."
-Thorstein Veblen
Recently LTD stayed at the King David Hotel in Jerusalem. While there we noticed other Americans staying at our hotel wearing purple lanyards and the following day, the same individuals were walking along the boardwalk in Tel Aviv. Eager to speak to other Americans, we struck up a conversation. Notably some of the individuals in this travel group were from our neck of the woods: Charlotte, North Carolina. We were traveling with Abercrombie & Kent which LTD previously reviewed. Upon asking these Americans what company they were traveling with, they responded they were on an around-the-world expedition with National Geographic and the Wall Street Journal. Intrigued, we began asking them more questions. They described to us that their journey consisted of a meeting point of San Francisco. From there, they took off in a "private" jet that was for their group and guides only. In total the private jet had 150 occupants including guests, guides and staff. Asking if they had lie flat seats, the responded no.
Here is what we learned from them about their journey:
–The Wall Street Journal offered a specialized itinerary with a focus on business, innovation and new technologies in partnership with National Geographic called Celebrating Human Ingenuity: An Exploration of Technology and Creativity. It was a 19-day trip (October 22-November 9, 2017) for 75 passengers across six continents with editors from the newspaper (including Editor-in-chief Gerard Baker) and experts from Nat Geo. The itinerary took travelers from Silicon Valley to Kyoto; Singapore; Jaipur; Seychelles; Kigali; Rwanda; Jerusalem and Barcelona. Travelers stayed in each location for 2-3 days including travel time. Hotels included Ritz Carlton, and Taj properties and King David in Jerusalem for example.
Investigating the National Geographic website showed us more information. The private modified 757 jet offers:
A convergence is taking place in the hospitality industry where the traditional categories of lodging are beginning to blur.
Look for tips on getting the best short term rental while staying safe at the end of this post!
Recently a follower of LTD gave us a great review of StayAlfred.com. Maybe you haven't heard of Stay Alfred, but you maybe you should give them a try. Stay Alfred, a Spokane, Washington startup rents downtown apartments and turns them into short-term rentals in 22 cities nationwide, including places like Seattle, Denver, Austin and Washington DC. A follower of LTD, has used Stay Alfred and gave good reviews. According to her, "You get all of the cost effectiveness of an Airbnb with the reliability of an upscale hotel! The difference between Airbnb and Stay Alfred is that Stay Alfred is the sole owner/leaser of each unit." She stayed with friends in Seattle and "couldn't believe how affordable it was compared to a hotel." Stay Alfred’s model consists of leasing swaths of units in new downtown apartment buildings before they open and turning them into something like boutique hotels with access to amenities. Our follower liked having access to Stay Alfred's hospitality staff for something like extra blankets, all the while being able to participate in apartment-wide events like a St. Patrick's Day party.
The wide popularity of short term rentals in the hospitality industry has not gone unnoticed among large hotel chains. Just over two years ago, Hyatt Hotels Corporation invested in Onefinestay, a closely held company that enables travelers to rent upscale private homes.
This collaboration is called "Oasis". From Hyatt's Oasis Website: "The Unbound Collection by Hyatt is pleased to now offer home rentals through Oasis, a global leader in serviced home rental accommodations. With thousands of handpicked homes in over 20 destinations worldwide, Oasis combines the comfort and authenticity of home rentals with the service and amenities of a hotel – including in-person check-in and check-out, fresh linens and toiletries, and on-demand concierge services."
LTD compared the price of a London Rental for the Week of May 3-9, six nights, centrally located in Westminster. The price on Airbnb was about $1680 and the SAME location on Oasis was $2000. The increased price was secondary to a higher per night rate.
Westminster London Rental on Airbnb (photo courtesy of Airbnb.com)
Like Stay Alfed, Oasis has limited cities where accommodations are offered.
For the most part, hotel executives have tried to distance their companies from the home-rental startups. They suggest these firms aren’t competitors because they don’t offer the same security measures and quality-control found in hotels and don’t necessarily compete for the same customer but clearly, they are losing certain customers.
In March 2018, a former Hyatt VP joined Suiteness and new concept among hotel companies: At its core, Suiteness is a hospitality members-only company with a platform that offers online booking of multi-bedroom inventory at hotels for the first time. Membership is free, and travelers can book a hotel stay for a group of 4-10 guests. The Penthouse suite at Nobu in Las Vegas is an example of available suite options.
Penthouse Suite at Nobu Las Vegas (courtesy of Suiteness.com)
LTD is very happy with Airbnb and has reviewed using a short term rental for your luxury vacation. This collective of renters is very reliable, with options in even the smallest of towns, and has GREAT customer service. Recently LTD had to cancel a reservation the day before arrival due to a family emergency. Using proper documentation of the emergency, Airbnb's customer service was awesome, handling our dilemma quickly and refunding our money. Another time, when a hurricane was bearing down on our short term rental in Washington DC, Airbnb notified us and offered to refund our money if we chose to leave (which we did). In April 2018, a caller into a consumer radio show identified a problem with an Airbnb rental that canceled the DAY OF ARRIVAL. After offering alternatives, Airbnb refunded the renters' money, plus 20% for the headache, AND the renters' flight cancellation fees.
Recently launched, Airbnb Plus, consists of 2,000 verified listings in 13 cities around the world. These homes, Airbnb attests, have been verified by Airbnb to be “beautiful homes” with “exceptional hosts” and “premium support” for both customers and hosts. Listings include both entire homes, as well as private rooms and bathrooms.
Airbnb Plus Los Angeles Listing (photo courtesy of Airbnb.com)
Verification as an Airbnb Plus listing includes a home inspection/professional photography session that adheres to a 100-point checklist. To apply for Airbnb Plus, a host has to pay a one-time $149 application fee. In return, a host gets top placement in search on the platform, access to in-home services like design consultations, and the ability to charge more for their listings. The website booking interface is clean, updated and more user-friendly.
How do you find the best options for short term rentals with any company? Click READ MORE BELOW TO FIND OUT!
