All posts by travelv

ECPAT – Ending Child Slavery at the Source

About ECPAT-USA

ECPAT LogoECPAT-USA is the leading anti-trafficking policy organization in the United States. ECPAT-USA belongs to an international network of organizations in 75 countries, all working to end the commercial sexual exploitation of children.

For the past two decades ECPAT-USA has been at the forefront of the fight to end the commercial sexual exploitation of children. It goes to the source of the problem by fighting for new and improved laws, encouraging the private sector to do its part, and raising awareness among those who may be in a position to identify a child who is being commercially sexually exploited.

Fighting to abolish the commercial sexual exploitation of children is a complex challenge. The criminals who exploit children for commercial gain use sophisticated methods that are changing all the time. They know how to entice children and then keep them in the shadows to be sold for sex. ECPAT-USA and its team of staff, board members, and volunteers work tirelessly to fight this inhumane and criminal activity at the source.

The Vision

A world in which no child is bought, sold, or used for sex.

The Mission

To protect every child’s basic human right to grow up free from the threat of sexual exploitation and trafficking.

ECPAT-USA does this in four primary ways:

  1. ECPAT-USA advocates for federal and state legislation that prevents exploitation, protects children, and guarantees that any child who is subjected to sexual slavery or sex trafficking will not be prosecuted in the courts for prostitution;
  2. ECPAT-USA promotes corporate responsibility among private companies with a strong focus on the tourism sector.
  3. ECPAT-USA educates first responders and ordinary citizens about this issue so that they can identify victims and join us in the fight to better protect children.
  4. ECPAT-USA empowers youth to take the lead against human trafficking by equipping them with the knowledge and tools necessary to help them become activists against this terrible trade.

Disturbing Statistics

  • Globally, profits obtained from the use of forced labor are estimated at $150 billion per year; about $99 billion from commercial sexual exploitation (Source: “Profits and Poverty: The economics of forced labour,” International Labour Organization, 2014).
  • At least 100,000 children in the U.S. are commercially sexually exploited (Source: Testimony of Ernie Allen, President and CEO of the National Center for Missing and Exploited children, at the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security Committee on the Judiciary, U.S. House of Representatives, September 15, 2010).
  • As many as 300,000 children are at risk of commercial sexual exploitation (Source: Estes, Richard J. and Neil Alan Weiner, “The Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children in the U. S., Canada and Mexico,” University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, 2001).
  • Children as young as 12 years old are trafficked for sexual exploitation (Source: Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General, “The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Efforts to Combat Crimes Against Children” Audit Report 09-08, January 2009).
  • There are fewer than 250 shelter beds for commercially sexually exploited children in the U.S. (Source: ECPAT-USA, Shared Hope International and the Protection Project of Johns Hopkins University, “Colloquium Report: An Inventory and Evaluation of the Current Shelter and Services Response to Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking,” 2012).
  • Most states’ laws allow children to be arrested for prostitution, even children below the age of consent (Source: Institute of Medicine and National Research Council, “Confronting Commercial Sexual Exploitation and Sex Trafficking of Minors in the United States,” 2013).
  • Almost 4,000 children in New York City were found to be sexually exploited, 50% were boys (Source: Ric Curtis, et al., “The Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children in New York City,” The Center for Court Innovation, New York City, 2008).
  • 45% of child commercial sexual exploitation victims in New York City were exploited in hotels (Source: Ric Curtis, et al., “The Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children in New York City”,The Center for Court Innovation, New York City, 2008).
  • Over the last 15 years, there were more than 1.9 million reports involving suspected child abuse imagery (child pornography) made to the National Center on Missing and Exploited Children (Source: U.S. Department of Justice, “The National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction. A Report to Congress,” August 2010).

ECPAT Image

What Individuals Can Do

If you wish to join the fight against the commercial sexual exploitation of children, there is so much you can do.

  • Make a donation – ECPAT-USA relies on the support of individuals to end child slavery at the source. All donations are tax deductible to the full extent of the law. Click here to donate today.
  • Sign up for the ECPAT-USA mailing list – We want to keep you informed. Sign up here and get our mailing list with all of the latest information about our effort to end the commercial sexual exploitation of children.

What Corporations Can Do

If you work for a company in the tourism, hospitality, conference/meeting industry, or a company that has a large traveling base, then you are in a position to help end the commercial sexual exploitation of children.

Companies that are in the travel, tourism, hospitality, or conferencing/meeting sectors can do so much to end this scourge, including:

  • Signing the Code of Conduct. When your company signs The Code it makes a commitment to do what it can to put an end to the commercial sexual exploitation of children.
  • Hiring ECPAT-USA for training. No matter what industry you are in, we will train company staff to identify possible victims and to follow proper protocol in notifying the authorities.
  • Donating to ECPAT-USA so that we can keep up the fight to end the commercial sexual exploitation of children at the source.

To learn more about The Code, corporate training sessions, and other ways you can help protect children, please contact Michelle Guelbart, Director of Private Sector Engagement, michelle@ecpatusa.org or 718-935-9192.

Please do your part, it’s a sickening issue.

Best,

Veronique

Spa Review – Lapis the Spa at Fontainebleau

 

Photo by Fontainebleau
Photo by Fontainebleau

Dubbed “the most beautiful spa in America” by Martha Stewart, Lapis the Spa at Fontainebleau is a lavish retreat designed with guests’ well-being in mind.

This 40,000-square-foot, two-level spa showcases the restorative qualities of water to craft luxuriating experiences. This popular Miami Beach spa boasts an impressive 30 private treatment rooms, invigorating water features and a co-ed pool to offer guests stress reducing and anti-aging solutions.

Lapis Ritual Water Journeys

Included in all spa services is a Lapis Ritual Water Journey. From a dip into the immersion mineral water jet bath to a plunge in the energy deluge shower to a detox in eucalyptus infusion steam to an invigorating stint in the Bleau rain room, guests are urged to take advantage of these service enhancements before and after treatments.

The spa treatment menu is extensive and is categorized as Bleau Ocean Luxuries, Body Renewal, Massage, Facials, Ayurveda, Bride Packages and Hair & Nail.

Bleau Ocean Luxuries services are done in the privacy of spa suites with breathtaking views of the ocean. In the luxe suites, guests can share a massage or a facial, soak in a jetted, scented tub or enjoy other luxurious treatments ensuring complete physical and mental relaxation.

Photo by Fontainebleau
Photo by Fontainebleau

Body Renewal treatments are ideal for patrons looking to ease everyday tension and boost the body’s restorative powers. Water is used in conjunction with various body treatments to help circulation, cell regeneration and tone sore muscles.

Massages are offered as typical basic services and as elevated experiences like the Four Hands massage where two knowledgeable therapists work in unison to provide a Swedish massage resulting in a pure relaxed state.

Facials can be booked as standard pore-refining treatments and age-defining techniques like microdermabrasion and gentle stimulation with the use of microcurrents. Every facial includes a hydrating hand treatment.

Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word meaning life and knowledge. It’s one of the oldest natural sciences in the world. Lapis’ collection of Ayurvedic services improve overall well-being and help rid the body of harmful toxins.

Bride Packages aim to bring complete relaxation for the bride and the members of her bridal party before the anticipated wedding takes place. From massages to body scrubs to hand and foot treatments, these services are meant to have a calming effect.

Hair and Nail services range from basic haircuts and manicures to hair extensions, gel polish and jewel-studded toe nails.

Photo by Fontainebleau
Photo by Fontainebleau

Non-hotel guests must purchase a 50-minute service to access spa facilities. Lapis is an adult-only spa and guests must be 18 years or older to use the facility or receive spa treatments.

Spa Hours

9:30 AM – 6:30 PM / Mon – Fri

9 AM – 7:30 PM / Sat

9 AM – 6:30 PM / Sun

Fontainebleau Miami Beach – 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33140.

Cheers,

Veronique

Hotel Restaurant Review – Triomphe

 

Bison Tartare
Bison Tartare

A few months back, I had the pleasure of once again tasting Florian Wehrli’s delectable food when I hosted a client for lunch at the popular Manhattan restaurant, Triomphe, where he’s the Executive Chef.

This talented chef from Switzerland uses classic techniques and the freshest ingredients available to craft dishes that are both striking and wonderful. After completing his culinary training in Switzerland, Chef Wehrli apprenticed under the tutelage of renowned Chef Georges Wenger at his two-star Michelin restaurant.

The posh Iroquois Hotel in midtown Manhattan is home to Triomphe, which opened in 2000. The sophisticated yet relaxed French restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Since Chef Wehrli joined Triomphe, he’s created a rooftop chef’s garden at the Small Luxury Hotels-affiliated property. Chef Wehrli grows produce, herbs and eatable flowers he incorporates in his dishes.

The lunch menu offers options categorized as Small Plates, Luncheon Salads, Main Plates and To Share. There’s also a prix fixe menu dubbed the $44 on 44th which features a three-course meal within 60 minutes with a selection of three starters, three entrées and two desserts.

BouillabaisseThe menu has changed since we visited to accommodate the season, but my guest and I shared and enjoyed the Bison Carpaccio with Dijon Mustard and Tête de Moine Cheese ($16). The dish was as delicious as the presentation was beautiful – paper-thin slices of bison adorned with a floret of Tête de Moine, a cheese popular in Chef Wehrli’s homeland of Switzerland. On our next visit, I’ll order the Jumbo Sea Scallops with Morel Cream and Sweet Potato Pancakes – how great does that sound?

For our entrées, we selected the Crema de Bleu Stuffed Free Range Chicken Breast ($27) and the Deconstructed Bouillabaisse ($26). The substantial chicken breast with its perfectly-crispy skin was flavorful and juicy and the Jersey sweet corn and heirloom peppers succotash with a Huitlacoche sauce was bright with fresh corn flavor. The bouillabaisse featured fresh squid, clams, shrimp and striped bass in a saffron broth. Each of the items in the bouillabaisse was poached separately to conserve the individual flavors of the fish and seafood then combined in the unbelievably-fragrant saffron broth. The fish was masterly-cooked and the seafood as fresh as could be.

SorbetsVarious sorbets and gelatos ($9) served with berries was our pick of dessert – a refreshing, finish to an excellent meal.

Triomphe uses the Coravin™ Wine Access Technology allowing the staff to offer some of the finest wines by the glass without ever pulling their corks. Wines range from $13 to $25 for Champagne.

I’m looking forward to also visiting Triomphe for breakfast as the beautifully-appointed dining room would be the perfect place to begin the day.

Triomphe – 49 West 44th Street New York, NY 10036. 212.453.4233.

 

Cheers,

Veronique

The Bar at Baccarat Hotel & Residence – Expensive Booze in Expensive Glasses

 

Baccarat BarAdjacent to the Grand Salon, The Bar at Baccarat Hotel & Residences New York exudes grandiose style reminiscent of classic European lounges. The space features a 60-foot long bar with ultra-comfortable stools, some tables all set in an opulent black and white space with contrasting ruby-colored accent walls. The showstoppers in the beautiful room are the three giant Baccarat crystal chandeliers, adding a royal touch to an already majestic space.

The afternoon I visited, the place was completely vacant…perhaps the clientele visits later or hasn’t fully found the place yet. The mixology professionals pour outstanding wines and masterly-crafted cocktails in magnificent Baccarat crystal glassware. After perusing the interesting drinks list, I opted for the La Vie en Rose ($24) – Lillet Rose, Citadelle Gin, Fresh Grapefruit Juice, Campari and Ruinart Rosé Champagne. It’s a stellar, elegant cocktail with perfect balance between ingredients – how could one go wrong with Ruinart? Other cocktails featured include reinvented classics like the French 75 and the Side Car ($22/each).

In warm months, The Bar extends outdoors to a terrace featuring topiaries, an outdoor fireplace and trellis work for a secluded, intimate feel.

The Bar also offers French-influenced “snacks” – caviar and petite potato buns ($45), hand-cut tuna tartare ($17), lobster dumplings ($17) and a classic charcuterie board ($26).

The Bar at Baccarat Hotel & Residence New York – 28 West 53rd Street, New York, NY, 10019.

Cheers,

Veronique

10 Service-Driven Luxury Dubai Hotels

 

Burj Al Arab
Photo by Burj Al Arab

Known for its splendid luxury hotels, Dubai is a destination with a reputation for high-touch client pampering, pristine beaches, refined diverse culinary options and luxe amenities.

Here are 10 luxurious that exude Dubai opulence and personalized service:

Ajman Saray

Ajman Saray, situated on white sandy beaches at the foot of the Arabian Gulf’s greenish blue waters, is the first beach-side resort in the Middle East. Conveying refined, understated elegance, this Luxury Collection Resort features 205 rooms and suites, many with extensive views of the turquoise Arabian waters.

Atlantis the Palm

The Palm, located on the largest man-made island, has become the visual cue visitors often associate with Dubai. The expansive, majestic ocean-themed resort and hotel houses 15 gourmet restaurants, the popular Aquaventure Waterpark and the 11 million liter fish tank, The Ambassador Lagoon. Every Atlantis room and suite is designed with comfort and incomparable luxury.

Burj Al Arab

The unusually-designed Burj Al Arab boasts a giant 1,000 feet tall sail structure. Not to be overshadowed by its iconic exterior, the hotel’s interior is also impressive with 2-floor luxurious suites. Each floor of the Burj Al Arab features a reception desk with teams of classically-trained butlers able to assist with guests’ requests.

Conrad Dubai 

Located near the Dubai International Financial Centre, across the World Trade Centre, the elegant and modern Conrad Dubai offers 555 spacious rooms with king-size beds and modern conveniences such as iPhone docking stations and Nespresso coffeemakers. The 52-floor hotel caters to business travelers but includes sought-after amenities for the leisure guest that includes a vast pool area, six modern dining options and a full-service spa with eight treatment rooms.

Fairmont Dubai

The 34 floor Fairmont Dubai is situated in the finance district and is adjacent to the Dubai International Convention Centre. With a boardroom and conference room available to guests this 394 room hotel has the business traveler in mind. Other features are the Willow Stream Spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center and two rooftop swimming pools with city views.

One & Only The Palm Dubai

This secluded, intimate property with its stunning beachside setting is known to be one of Dubai’s most private resorts. One&Only The Palm offers sweeping views of the Dubai skyline and is situated on a secluded peninsula of Palm Jumeirah. There are 64 rooms, 27 suites and four private beachfront villas providing guests the utmost personalized experience.

Park Hyatt Dubai Hotel

Photo by Grand Hyatt Dubai
Photo by Grand Hyatt Dubai

This award-winning luxury hotel is a testament to complete guest satisfaction with its impeccable service. Combining Mediterranean, Moroccan and Arabian styles, the Park Hyatt offers modern accommodations with exotic flair. Near the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club with its 18-hole, par-71 championship course, the resort is a golfer’s paradise. This hotel is a short 10-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, a convenience for business travelers.

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

Set in what is literally the middle of the desert amid the Liwa sands, the Qasr Al Sarab offer 206 rooms and 66 suites decorated in subdued earth tones with dark wood furniture and marble floors. To add to the relaxing setting, the free-form, infinity edge pool overlooks the desert and is furnished with comfortable loungers. The Anantara Thai spa offers six over-the-top treatment rooms and there are also two Thai salas for private outdoor yoga. The Qasr Al Sarab is the quintessential romantic resort.

Shangri-la Hotel Dubai

The Shangri-La Dubai, unlike many of its garish competitors, offers the highest level of luxury in an understated, refined setting. The property, located on the famed Sheikh Zayed Road, features 302 guest rooms all with rain showers, deep soaking tubs and welcoming décor. For guests seeking much-needed R&R, chaises lounge circle the inviting pool. The hotel also offers a fully-equipped fitness center.

Taj Dubai 

Taj Dubai, overlooking the esteemed Downtown and Burj Khalifa precinct, blends refined, contemporary luxury with authentic Indian flair. A short five-minute walk takes guests to the city’s lively business center and countless luxurious shops and restaurants. The hotel features 296 guestrooms, including Taj Club rooms, 20 junior suites and 14 luxury suites.

Safe travels,

Veronique

Hyatt Regency Orlando State-of-the-Art StayFit Gym

Photo Credit Hyatt Corporation
Photo Credit Hyatt Corporation

As a busy travel industry executive, I stay in my share of hotels every year, up to 75% of the time, as a matter-of-fact. While I try to visit hotel fitness centers on most trips, this year, I vowed to go to the hotel gym once for every night I spend in a property.

Most hotel gyms I visit offer what I consider a sub-par experience, oftentimes with little more than a few cardio equipment, mismatched free weights and outdated weight machines. This is not the case at the Hyatt Regency Orlando near the convention center. The StayFit™ Gym at this luxurious Orlando hotel is truly state-of-the-art.

The fitness center, overlooking the Grotto Pool, is available to hotel guests 24 hours each day and features multiple rooms based on the type of exercise guests prefer:

  • Studio for group classes
  • Spinning room
  • Two cardio studios
  • Core training room
  • Weight room with over 50 pieces of Cybex Eagle equipment

Access to the fitness center and all classes are complimentary to hotel guests. A copy of the weekly fitness class schedule can be provided by the spa staff upon request. Here is the schedule that was emailed to me by the Spa Director during my stay.

The fitness center offers easy access to The Spa for gym buffs with time to luxuriate with a spa service.

During the summer this year, while guests are getting in a workout in the fitness center, their kids can learn how to swim like mermaids at the Grotto Pool. The Mermaid Academy provides an opportunity for children of all ages to play and swim with a vibrant mermaid tail or shark fin. The classes are available Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Grotto Pool at 11:30 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. for a cost of $30 per child. There are even mermaid tails available for purchase so kids can continue their mermaid experience at home.

Have you been to this hotel gym? What are some of your favorites in the U.S.A.? Please share in the comments section.

9801 International Drive, Orlando, Florida, USA, 32819. Tel: +1 407 284 1234.

Safe travels,

Veronique