MAY - JUNE 2018 ISSUE
WEDDING IN BOLIVIA BRAZIL FOR HONEYMOONERS ROMANTIC CUBA COSTA RICA FOR LOVERS PANAMA JOURNEY
ANDEAN WEDDING PERU
LOVE IN
ECUADOR
CONTENT PRESENTATION
4
WEDDING IN BOLIVIA
6
TOUR PACKAGE - UYUNI SALT FLAT
8
ROMANTIC CUBA
10
ROMANTIC CUBA OPTION 2
13
PANAMA JOURNEY
15
LOVE IN ECUADOR
16
GALAPAGOS ROMANTIC VACATION
19
AMAZING COTOPAXI
20
BRAZIL FOR HONEYMOONERS
23
11 DAY PROGRAM - BRAZIL
24
ANDEAN WEDDING PERU
26
COSTA RICA FOR LOVERS
31
ROMANTIC 8D/7N TOUR - COSTA RICA
32
BEAUTIFUL BELIZE
34
OUR PARTNERS
36
Editor: Santiago Paz y Miño Designer: Pedro Pablo Caicedo General Edition: Santiago Paz y Miño Quito , 2018
www.aquanautjourney.com
2
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
3
PRE SEN TATION
in order to give couples a perfect wedding experience, is my goal¨. So, would you like to discover a romantic vacation in Latin America? I present in this magazine romantic places that combine incredible destinations in order to expose lovers to a vivid experience full of natural environments, protected ecosystems and historical cities full of sanctuaries. To show the best spots around Latin America for couples in order to live an adult vacation and share intimacy is what this publication is about. Of course, taking it easy and lounging around on an island beach isn’t for everyone. So, are you experienced? If you and your sweetheart want to feel the adrenaline pumping and the excitement of an adventure during the honeymoon, here in Latin America, you have to think that dreams become true. and outdoor adventures in abundance in: caribbean beaches, nice jungle lodges, cosmopolitan cities and amazing landscapes. Explore ancient Inca ruins, hike the challenging Inca Trail, visit the Uyuni Salt Flat, meet local people in rural villages and bargain for hand-made crafts in bustling markets. Over such a large continent, there is so much to see from the extense national parks of Brazil to the tropical beaches of Costa Rica, which bask in warmth year round. I became an entrepreneur as a travel consultant and wedding and honeymoon planner to give the best service to customers. SANTIAGO PAZ Y MIÑO MAGAZINE MANAGER
4
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
5
WEDDING IN BOLIVIA
6
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
S
alar de Uyuni, like any other place in Souhamerica, presents the most varied legends, born of an Andean cosmovision.
One legend tells that Thunupa Volcano was a beautiful lady that married Cuzco. However, Cuzco betrayed his wife with a young lady called Cosuña. When Thunupa realized that,
pampa) to fall there forever, right where the volcano that bears her name is located now. In this wasteland, before dying, Thunupa, who recently had given birth, wept salty tears that were mixed with the milk gushed from her mother´s womb, turning the place better known as Salar de Uyuni. Cuzco, rises as a hill east from the salar.
Another magical legend tells the story of Cuzco and Cosuña, the three mountains that After Cuzco betrayed his wife, Thunupa, who the imcomparable and beautiful Salar de Uyuni. In fact, Thunupa is so revered by some should be called Salar de Thunupa in order to honor her. The Salar de Uyuni is located southwest of Bolivia and extending over an amazing 12.000 square kilometers at an impressive altitude of 3,653 meters above sea level. Is the largest lithium reserve in the world. It season.
“Thunupa salt flat, better known as Salar de Uyuni”
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
7
Tour Package USF The Amazing Uyuni Salt Flat tour starts with the pick up from the airport and the City Tour to La Paz (La Paz Downtown + Cableway) + Moon Valley: Visiting the Traditional Markets from La Paz city, sightseeing San Pedro Jail.
Day 02 Colchani – Uyuni – La Paz Breakfast at hotel.
Then, we will take the cableway to enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of La Paz. And visit the Moon Valley that is located 10 km. from La Paz city downtown .
09:30: Visit to the train cemetery (old steam locomotives that were used to transport minerals), we will then continue the journey to the village of Colchani, where the processing of salt can be observed (drying, grinding and packaging of salt) you will also have the opportunity purchase handicrafts made of salt.
This name was given by Neil Armstrong
Then we will be able to see the Salt mounds
the moon in 1969. Finally, we will visit the Historic Center of La Paz where we will visit Witches´ Market, San Francisco Church, Murrillo Square, Executive Palace, Legislative Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral and Killi Killi Viewpoint. Return to the airport to board the the salt hotel.
8
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
surface), the Salt Museum built from salt and visit of the Incahuasi Island (a rocky island observe giant cactuses, some of them are more than 100 years old, from the top you
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
9
ROMANTIC CUBA
10
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
I
n order to celebrate an amazing wedding in Cuba and to travel around unexplored venues while exploring the rich culture and historical heritage of some of Cuba’s spectacular cities, we have two options available:
Back to homestay in Habana.
Option 1 Saturday - Havana
Breakfast at homestay or hotel. Transfer to Varadero with driver. Enjoy an all inclusive hotel in Varadero. Meals included upon hotel regulations.
Arrival in Habana
Accm. All inclusive resort.
Transfer to a homestay.
Tuesday – Varadero – Habana
Accm. Havana
Breakfast at hotel.
Sunday – Havana
Tranfer to Havana with driver.
Breakfast at homestay or hotel.
Dinner not included.
Havana city tour with English speaking guide.
Accm. Havana
* Visit 4 squares. Lunch at Paladar. In the afternoon, tour in Classic American car. Drive through famous Plaza de la Revoluión, Cemetery of Colón, John Lennon Park, and
Wednesday – Havana
Accm. Havana Moday – Havana – Varadero
Breakfast at homestay or hotel
car ride.
Depends on departure time, breakfast is not available.
* Route and where your visit may change.
Transfer to airport. (Driver only)
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
11
12
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
Option 2 Wednesday Arrival in Habana Meet with the driver at the airport. Transfer to homestay or hotel (Driver only) * Meals not included. Accm. Havana Thursday Breakfast at homestay or hotel. Havana city tour with English speaking guide. * Visit to 4 squares in Old Habana as well as Hemingway”s favorit spots. Lunch at Paladar. In the afternoon, tour in classic American car. Drive through famous Plaza de la Revolución, Cemetery of Colón, John Lennon Park, and the oldest
Saturday Wedding in Cuba Breakfast at homestay or hotel. Transfer to Santa Clara to visit the Che Guevara museum and mausoleum, as well as the Museum of armared train. Lunch at local restaurant. Transfer to Trinidad. Dinner not included. The tour continues to Trinidad. Dinner not included. Accm. Trinidad Sunday Breakfast at homestay or hotel. Full day tour in Trinidad and Valle de los Ingenios. Enjoy one of the Cuba’s oldest and most enchanting the sugar cane industry. Lunch at local restaurant.
* The Route may change subjected to government decision.
Dinner not included.
Transfer to homestay or Hotel.
Accm. Trinidad
Dinner not included.
Monday
Accm. Havana
Breakfast at homestay or hotel.
Friday
Trinidad-Cienfuegos-Havana
Breakfast at homestay or hotel.
Stop at the beautiful pearl city, Cienfuegos. Visit includes entrnce to Parque Jose Marti and Palacio del Valle. Lunch at local restaurant. Stop at Varadero and enjoy the carribean beach for a moment. Dinner not included.
Full day Vinales: valley tour with English speaking guide. Pick up at your homestay and transfer to Vinales. Visit View Point, Indian Cave, Mural de la prehistoria, and Tabaco farm. Lunch at an organic Farm.
Accm. Havana
* House back ride tour available as an option.
Tuesday
Transfer back to Havana.
Breakfast at homestay or hotel.
Dinner not included. accm. Havana
*Depends on the departure time, breakfast is not
available. Transfer to airport. (Driver only)
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
13
14
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
PANAMA JOURNEY A
journey through the ocean is what couples need when arriving to Panama.
A cruiseship is a good option for travellers that would like to have a different experience. This is a historical tour and the chance to admire an important part of Panama that is really impressive. The yearning for that closeness is the virtue and spirit of the true traveler and it is the reason for the Journey Between the Seas. That communion of body and spirit is only possible within the intimate realm of a compact craft, designed to cover the narrowest marine routes that take us to pristine lands. Journey between the seas allows you to enjoy a little bit of everything: history, beaches, nature, culture, gastronomy and the Panama Canal. A journey in the Discovery is a feast of intense, sensory experiences: the aroma of remote places, the texture of unknown things, the multicolor tapestry of nature, the accent of of what has never before been tasted; that is the incomparable feeling of penetrating the secrets of other worlds, other lives. That proximity is life, it is the beginning and the end.
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
15
LOVE IN ECUADOR
E
cuador, a small country yet is uniquely endowed with a dramatic topography and a variety of climatic zones, vegetation, birds and wildlife. Without ever leaving the country, the traveller can move in a matter of hours from junglerainforest to the high slopes of the
coast, while observing a breathtaking panorama of scenery and nature, perfect for honeymooners. En route, through Ecuador’s wonderful world of nature, you will be able to follow the courses of rivers broad and narrow; rest along the shores of pristine lakes; explore mysterious caves and marvel at unique plant and animal species that have evolved undisturbed on Galapagos Islands, perfect for a wedding vacation. From the highlands to sea level, Ecuador’s fascinating diversity is echoed by its people whose cultural origins and traditions continue to be formed by their immediate geographical environment.
16
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
17
18
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
GALAPAGOS ROMANTIC VACATION
I
s where the discerning travelers will delight in delicious gourmet meals featuring fresh
while relaxing at our deluxe cruise-ships complete with spa, wet bar, and stunning ocean views. The itineraries are carefully designed to take passengers to a different Galapagos, away from the crowds, from the strict schedules and large groups; to itinerary that will allow you to have the best wildlife encounters, discover authentic local experiences. Perfect for honeymooners, family groups and those who want alternatives to traditional island visits. this tour offers a top Galapagos land-based experience that highlights the best of San Cristobal, Isabela, and Santa Cruz, each with its own distinct personality and wildlife. Experience the unique evolutionary paths of endemic species as you move between islands quickly and comfortably. No other and activities. Hike through gorgeous environments, swim and relax on pristine tropical beaches, and snorkel with incredible sea life in turquoise waters.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS: • Follow Darwin’s footsteps to meet the endemic wildlife of the Galapagos • Snorkel pristine waters, including the best spot for sea lion encounters in the world • Enjoy hikes through a wide variety of environments and ecosystems • Relax in style on gorgeous tropical beaches accompanied by marine iguanas • Trust in our top-rated guides to make every activity interesting, fun and safe • Protect the environment – we value sustainable practices in all aspects of our tours • Support the local economy and get in touch with the local vibe with our land-based tours • Flow between islands and activities with minimal transit time and maximum contact. Day 1: Interpretation center, hike and snorkel in Tijeretas Day 2: Snorkel the northern coast of San Cristobal Day 3: Discover Isabela’s beaches, lagoons, and islets Day 4: Explore the Santa Cruz highlands Day 5: Transfer out
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
19
AMAZING COTOPAXI C
ontinuing the way to the south from Quito and passing wonderful landscapes with some of the highest and most beautiful mountains of the Andes, you will enjoy the way to Cotopaxi Volcano one of the world´s highest summits.
surrounding the volcano.
On a walk near the shallow lake “Laguna de Limpiopungo” in an altitude of almost 4.000 m. (13.123ft.), you will have the chance to learn about the typical On your way further south you will visit vegetation of the so-called “Páramo” and the Cotopaxi National Park. The highland will gaze in wonder at the beautiful view zone protected since 1975, with its of Cotopaxi (5.897m / 19.347ft.) in the 33.000 ha. it is one of the most attractive background. ecological reserves of the country.
20
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
21
22
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
BRAZIL FOR HONEYMOONERS GREEN SEA 3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS Day 1 – Rio de Janeiro/Ilha Grande Pick up at your hotel in Rio and transfer to Mangaratiba (111 km south of Rio). Board the Ferry Boat, and enjoy a ride over the emerald green sea. After 1h30 arrive at Abraao Village Pier. Your bilingual guide will be expecting you to show your pousada and start your welcome walking tour to Ilha Grande. Visit the village, the Preta Beach and look out, and the Aqueduto waterfall. Overnight at your Pousada. Day 2 – Ilha Grande – Blue Lagoon 10:00 AM departure from the docks toward Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon), with awesome locations that protect its unspoiled natural environments. There will be a stop between the two islands. In the shallow part of this lagoon affording blue hand (all of this is what turns the Blue Lagoon one of the most visited locations in Ilha Grande). The trip will continue with a stop at Praia da Freguesia de Santana. There you will have the chance to get to know two beaches in addition to the historical Santana Church (built in 1796). Returning to the boat, passengers will visit Praia do Japariz, followed by a stop for lunch. After lunch there will be a stop at Saco do Céu (meaning Sky Bay), a small bay with still waters that received its name because at night you can admire the Then continuing, a quick stop at a bridge at the Day 3 – Ilha Grande/Rio de Janeiro Day at leisure to enjoy the island hiking, diving or just relaxing on the beach (depending on the schedule of the Ferry Boat). Check out from the Pousada and Board the Ferry Boat at the Pier to proceed to your transfer back to the Continent. Your guide will swway goodbye to you at the pier, wishing you will come back soon to this paradise! Arrive in Mangaratiba, the driver/guide will be waiting to drive you back to Rio.
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
23
RIO DE JANEIRO - SALVADOR MARAU 11 days / 10 nights Day 1 : Arrive Rio de Janeiro / Sugar Loaf
Overnight at Fasano (B, D) Day 4 : Rio de Janeiro-Salvador Morning at leisure to relax on the beach or linger at sidewalk cafes or take in an optional tour.
Welcome to Rio de Janeiro, the city of mountains and sea, samba and carnival, and a relaxed way of life. In the afternoon, your orientation begins with a cable car ascent of Sugar Loaf Mountain, a tour of city sights, and a ride along the world-famous beaches. Bottle of champagne
was born and her early history remains, both in colonial monuments and African folk culture. Arrival and transfer to your hotel. Overnight at Convento do Carmo (B)
Overnight at Fasano
Day 5 : Salvador-Marau / Historical tour
Day 2 : Rio de Janeiro / Corcovado & Lunch at Confeitaria Colombo
Your morning historical tour of Salvador ventures from the colonial-era slave auction site and grandiose baroque to Francisco Church, to the newer Upper City. Check-out and transfer to the Salvador airport.
This morning, the breakfast will be served in the room. You will be taken to one of Wonders of the World: The statue of Christ the Redeemer, which crowns the top of the Corcovado Mountain with stunning views of Guanabara Bay, Sugar Loaf and the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. The perfect way to reach the summit is on the toy train which zig zags its way up through the lush rainforest of the Tijuca Forest. Once on top you will have some time to admire the views. You will have lunch at Confeitaria Colombo, a 100 year old Tea Room / Restaurant that has been kept in pristine conditions. It is one of the most traditional restaurants in Rio and it is part of the city’s cultural heritage. Overnight at Fasano (B, D) Day 3 : Rio de Janeiro / Samba class Rio de Janeiro is the birthplace of samba. It’s impossible to resist the most Brazilian of all beats. You listen to it, and before you notice your class included this day. Tonight dinner will be at Rio Scenarium, it is an antique store-turnedbar which serves a wide range of seafood and traditional Brazilian dishes. There is also a stage in case you want to dance samba the night away.
24
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
Kiaroa Resort where you will spend 5 nights. Is an exclusive property designed for your pleasure with SPA, gourmet gastronomy and pleasant activities surrounded by luxury, comfort and privacy. Your stay includes a bottle of sparking wine with assorted fruits, a feet ritual session at Armonia Spa, a jeep tour for the couple and a candle light dinner. Overnight at Kiaroa (B, D) Day 5-9: Marau / Sun & Beach Full days at leisure to relax. Perhaps take one the Boat and land optional tours available. Overnight at Kiaroa (B, D). Day 10 : Marau-Salvador You will take your air transfer back to Salvador at 12:30 - note that airport is located inside the resort. Arrive at Salvador airport and transfer to Convento do Carmo for your last night in Brazil. Overnight at Convento do Carmo (B) Day 11 : Salvador Transfer to the airport to Rio airport to connect
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
25
ANDEAN WEDDING PERU “Peru, land of the incas, where couples enjoy a new spiritual experience through ancient wisdom”
A
n Andean Wedding is a secret, an ancient Inca knowledge and a spiritual pact between the Pachamama (Goddes mother of the world), the Tayta Inti (God Father Sun of the universe) and the Apus (protective spirits). This Andean ceremony is more important than a common conjugal union between two individuals, as it is a whole sacred ritual performed by an Andean priest, together with all of andean wedding, ayahuasca in peru, andean wedding in peru nature´s energies. In the Andean wedding ceremony, not only do the people present participate, but also are present all the Sacred Deities considered in the Andean beliefs. wWe can mention here the main ones that constitute the Andean duality which is composed of THE APUS (Mountain Spirits), representing the masculine side and THE PACHA MAMA (Earth Mother), representing the woman and in addition to these two Main Deities, Water is considered as the element that represents Purity and Fire which symbolizes the Path or Strength.
26
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
27
S
ince many years ago, the Andeans, continuing with the traditions of their forefathers, the Incas, kept on performing these ceremonies as they consider as sacred the perfect bond between man and a woman, so that they might prosper and have complete happiness within the hands of the PACHA MAMA. Mother Earth will give sacred couples the products they might be able to have in their surroundings and the protection of the APUS that will be guardians against any enemy that might want to harm the couple. The Andean wedding ceremony is one of the simplest, in comparison to the Catholics ones, in which the best dressed couple or whoever looks best is the one that had the best wedding. In this case, the luxury part doesn´t exist and the couple must step into the ceremony with an open and pure heart. The ceremony will take place outside the city of Cuzco, so as not to have any contact with the Catholic religion, as this is a mystical ceremony and not a Catholic one.
28
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
29
30
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
COSTA RICA FOR LOVERS C
osta Rica enchants couples and gives them the best holidays with the chance to experience powder-sand beaches, dazzling blue waters and amazing caribbean landscapes that seem to lead passengers to a beautiful land full of diversity and adventure. During a honeymoon passengers can choose from a wide selection of activities and take pictures from perfect white beaches, incredible ports or venture inland on an unforgettable land excursion. Also, Lovers can go swimming with
do some adventure activities in Tapantí National Park, considereded a tropical jungle as well as Tortuguero National Park with a huge wildlife diversity. Our tour offering in Costa Rica is very extensive according to your needs, with us you can visit different tourist areas and enjoy several attractions in one day, such as: San José City Tour, Arenal
Volcano, Irazú Volcano, Tortuga Island, Canopy Tour, Rafting, Poás Volcano, Aerial Tram and Biological Reserves. Costa Rica offers a wide selection of the best hotels in Costa Rica according to their category in value for money and carries a continuous control of them to ensure the quality of services we provide. We have available city, beach, and mountain hotels of different categories and in different tourist locations. If you prefer to travel in groups we offer our multiple day tours, including: Hotels according to your needs, Transfers, tours, meals and National Park tickets, comfortable air conditioned buses, Tour Guide (Spanish and English, German Language). Our tour guides are highly trusted and recognized for their high knowledge of languages, nature and culture of Costa Rica.
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
31
Romantic 8 D – 7 N at the Caribbean Day 1: San Jose: In order to start your Romantic 8 D – 7 N at the Carribean, please onsider that when arriving you will be received by the local guide and transferred to the hotel. Depending on arrival time you will be taken to an optional city tour in San Jose city. Day 2: San Jose´- Parque Nacional Tortuguero We will have breakfast while traveling to the dock. We take a 40 kilometer speedboat ride through the channels to the hotel. You will enjoy the charming jungle´s environment. During the afternnon there is a visit to the lovely town of Tortuguero that show colorful shops and houses. (B,LD) Day 3: Tortuguero National Park At 5 am there is an optional excursion to observe wildlife. After breakfast we will make a short walk through the tropical jungle from the national park. It is posible to observe afternoon, there is a canoe ride through the Tortuguero Channels, the most humid spot in Costa Rica. Wildlife variety is amazing, you turtles and other species. This is where you will take the best pictures. (B,LD) Day 4: Tortuguero – Limón- Puerto Viejo In the morning we will ride by boat to the dock and there we will take a bus to Limón, Costa Ricas´carribean zone. The journey goes throughout the beautiful caribbean beaches towards Puerto Viejo. This is the perfect place the night in a beach hotel from Puerto Viejo.
32
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
(B, D) Day 5: Puerto Viejo – Cahuita National Park The day begins wiht the journey to the Cahuita National Park where we will take an interesting 7 Km – walk . We will have lunch while traveling to the National Park. Enjoy the carribean coast in the afternoon by admiring its beaches surrounded by amazing palm trees or by exploring the forest paths that sorroud your hotel. This is the best place to get involved with nature. (B) Day 6: Puerto Viejo – Turrialba – Orosi After breakfast we will stop by Limón going grown in Costa Rica. Then we will visit Orosi, a really beautiful place located near the old capital, Cartago. This oasis is an excellet opportunity to relax and enjoy nature in peace. Lodging at Orosi Valley. (B, D) Day 7: Orosi – Irazú – Cartago – San Jos There is a 3432 metrer high trip to Irazú volcanoe where with some luck we can observe two oceans from its impressive crater. On the road we will visit the Cartago basilica and sanctuary with its famous Virgen de los Angeles (virgin). After a short ride through the city we will get to the hotel in San José. (L,D) Day 8: San José After breakfast you will take a trasnfer out to (B) Carribean.
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
33
BEAUTIFUL BELIZE Picture your honeymoon in a pristine birds and rustling of nature. Add wonderful weather, excellent food and drink, friendly attentive service, include exciting outdoor activities such as horseback riding, jungle biking, swimming, canoeing or just swinging in a hammock, and you have something very special indeed. Our honeymoon packages are designed to compliment your celebration of love and togetherness. We understand how important this time is to you. Our staff from any Belize hotel or lodge will be happy to go that extra mile to ensure that your stay in this paradise contributes to wonderful, lifelong memories. Nestled within the refreshing rainforest, Belize is a lovers’ playground and the perfect spot to share some unforgettable romantic moments while being looked after in romantic atmosphere. Our All Inclusive honeymoon packages creates a truly memorable experience without the hassle of planning and organising every detail. We look after you so you can spend time on the real reason for being here – each other.
34
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
35
OUR PARTNERS
36
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
AQUANAUT JOURNEY
37
www.aquanautjourney.com 38
AQUANAUT JOURNEY