ESCAPESEEKER

PLEASE REFER TO www.escapeseeker.net/blog for the latest ESCAPESEEKER updates.

2010-09-20T08:10:00.000-07:00

Dear ESCAPESEEKER friends,

I am excited to inform you that this former ESCAPESEEKER blog has officially transitioned over to our escapeseeker website: www.escapeseeker.net

Please make a note of this change so you can continue to receive the latest updates. We thank you for your continued enthusiastic support and we look forward to bringing you more of the greatest destinations in the world, one luxury ESCAPE at a time!

Also, please feel free to follow us on FACEBOOK http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/ESCAPESEEKER/367501815104?ref=ts
and TWITTER too: http://twitter.com/escapeseeker

In the meantime, here's to BLISSFUL NEVER-ENDING ESCAPES...

Travel safely wherever you go.

With love,

Mel

ESCAPESEEKER UPDATES, ENDLESS SUMMER 2010

2010-07-10T05:44:00.000-07:00

Hello ESCAPESEEKER Fans and Friends,

I know how hard it is to change from using something so familiar (blogspot) to something so new (wordpress). Like they often say, "Why fix it, if it ain't broken?" Well, just to cover all our ESCAPESEEKER bases, I've decided to continue and include both blog sites.

It has been a very exciting last few weeks, as we continue to prepare for our program's national feed at the end of the summer. We're working very closely with the WQED team and NETA to ensure that all the Premiere Season episodes meet PBS' strict guidelines. The good news--we haven't had to change too much in the way of content. However, we have been asked to make a few adjustments on the format of our program credits--which we revised, and submitted, and we're now waiting on the second approval. If you must know, great care is given to the review of every single episode. By the time it hits the airwaves, you will know that you're watching the multi-tweaked version. It is no wonder PBS is the most trusted name in America huh? Even with all the intense guidelines we are called to follow, we feel extremely privileged to be included in the PBS/WQED superb program roster of longest running hits. We're keeping our fingers crossed that ESCAPESEEKER will be around for a very long time too. We thank all of you for your continued and unwavering support!

More latest news items:

If you are amongst the very lucky iPad owners, please download INFINITI's global magazine "Adeyaka" application. It was launched across the globe on July 2nd and features a story about ESCAPESEEKER, as well as a clip of our French road adventure. To find out how you do it, please click below:
http://itunes.apple.com/de/app/infiniti-magazine-1/id379138346?mt=8

Honestly, watching our film trailer on the iPad is simply superb. The high def resolution is just that much more defined! Please check it out.

Our Globetrotting 2010 Fall schedule:

For those of you loyal followers, who maybe tempted to follow in our ESCAPESEEKER footsteps, here's our latest Fall schedule:

September 1-19th -- Our filming adventure in JAPAN: Land of the Rising Sun, which includes my premiere climb to Japan's highest peak, Fuji-san, rising 12,390 feet, with its near-perfect cone "floating lilac-gray" or snow-capped above the hilltops and low cloud. Until 100 years ago, Fuji-san was considered so sacred that it was climbed only by priests and pilgrims; women were not allowed until 1872. Now 138 years later, I, ESCAPESEEKER, will get the tremendous privilege. I am so ready. My entire team is very excited!

October 1-9th -- Aloha! The beautiful islands of Oahu and Lana'i beckons our "ART"--Advance Research Team--as we unveil the unique history and heritage of Hawaii. Our Oahu story will be anchored around the "House Befitting Heaven"-- the 100 year-old luxury hospitality tradition of the famous HALEKULANI. Our goal, is to prove, as my Hawaiian father used to say, "There's more to Waikiki than meets the eye!" Yes, just another tough assignment for the ESCAPESEEKER Advance Research Team!
http://www.halekulani.com/about_halekulani/

From Oahu, we will travel to Lana'i...to experience an island like no other...where sea and sand meet ancient, Pine tree-lined pathways. Our home bases while we explore this untouched tiny island playground, and experience our own private Hawaii are the two Four Seasons luxury resorts on Manele Bay (our Biologist/Film Director/underwater film aficionado, Jason Wise will love discovering that this exclusive resort borders a marine reserve teaming with with colorful reef fish and protected species such as green sea turtles and spinner dolphins). I think I'll regain my crew's nickname for me of "Fairy Godmother" once more with this one!
http://www.fourseasons.com/manelebay/

And, as if this wasn't enough, our ART will continue on to the Four Seasons, Lodge at Koele. http://www.fourseasons.com/koele/

The resort, hidden within the central highlands of Lana'i, Four Seasons captures a unique perspective of Hawaii’s natural beauty, nestled in peaceful tranquillity, along with two world-ranked golf courses and more exciting adventures on land and at sea.
Ok, who wouldn't want to be a member of our ESCAPESEEKER dream team? Well, as many of you filmmakers and TV producers know, there's a lot of work that goes on between story inception and broadcast date. Nevertheless, these work assignments do not get any better! How about this for a working title: "I Am Hawaii, I am Forever"--and that's exactly what we're hoping to do--find the real Hawaii, the Hawaiians all work and pray will always endure!

October 25-31 -- "Paris, Mon Amour" --yes, who isn't in-love with the City of Lights--PARIS! This episode filming has been in the works for several seasons, and this Fall, we're thrilled to finally capture this magnificent city cast in the golden hues of crisp Autumn. Our team will bask in the beauty of the 2nd arrondissement--as our home will be the exquisite 5-star luxury hotel, Park Hyatt Paris - Vendome! It is located in the heart of Paris, on the prestigious Rue de la Paix, and within walking distance of the Place Vendôme and the Place de la Concorde, the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay, as well as other major landmarks. Can we please consider the most exclusive shops on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré landmarks? Yes, Paris, Mon Amour.

http://paris.vendome.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp

If you think our schedule sounds exciting, wait until you see what's in store for the rest of the year, as we span the California coastline featuring the creme de la creme of 5-star resorts under our banner of "No Passport? No Problem." We understand that there are those moments when we just want to hop in our shiny cruiser and drive that exciting, rugged California Big Sur coastline. Ok, here's a sneak peak at one of our California destinations:

http://www.postranchinn.com/gallery_photos/index.shtml

VAROOM, VAROOM! Get those motors running ESCAPESEEKER fans!

Please stay tuned...here's to never-ending BLISSFUL ESCAPES!

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

PLEASE VISIT OUR NEW BLOG HOME!!!

2010-07-01T09:06:00.000-07:00

Dear ESCAPESEEKER friends and fans,

We're excited to let you know that our newly redesigned website is up and running. Now you can access everything you ever wanted to know about ESCAPESEEKER, watch episode trailers, and get the latest update all under one roof!

If you've been missing our blog updates lately, just click on the following link, and it should take you to the blog page directly.

www.escapeseeker.net

We truly appreciate your tremendous and continued support of ESCAPESEEKER!

As always, here's to Blissful, Endless ESCAPES!

Love,
Mel

BREAKING NEWS: ESCAPESEEKER BLOG PAGE IS TRANSITIONING!

2010-06-12T06:33:00.000-07:00

Dear Faithful Readers:

I'm writing to inform you that for the next 48 hours, I will be taking a break from blogging while this entire library of blog entries is transferred to its new location. By next week, you can just go to www.escapeseeker.net and everything related to our ESCAPESEEKER Travel Series--from the ESCAPESEEKER blog, to ESCAPESEEKER Facebook, even ESCAPESEEKER Twitter will be at your fingertips--a mere click away.

Oh let me not forget, soon, you'll also be able to view episode trailers with much greater ease, just with a click on www.escapeseeker.net

In the meantime, please feel free to go to our ESCAPESEEKER Facebook page for the latest ESCAPESEEKER updates, while this blog transitions to its new home.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/ESCAPESEEKER/367501815104

Thank you very much for you support. We hope you'll enjoy our new redesigned ESCAPESEEKER website as much as our web design team did putting it all together for you!

Here's to Blissful ESCAPES,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

"A THING OF BEAUTY" --Presenting 'The Making Of' ESCAPESEEKER French Road Adventure

2010-06-07T12:33:00.000-07:00

ESCAPESEEKER Director, Jason knows how to do it all...as he preps our European star, INFINITI G37 convertible for one of her many shoots.

A LOOK BACK...
Aix-en-Provence: Our Unforgettable Summer of 2009

After an entire decade of traveling from Paris to Cannes by plane or train, as a "veteran" journalist assigned to cover the annual Cannes Film Festival— I decided it was time to take the road less traveled in this, our own version of the ESCAPESEEKER Tour de France. We prepared to embrace and capture all things French for our two episodes of pure joie de vivre!

ESCAPESEEKER challenged the beautiful, often narrow country roads of France in sheer luxury and style as we continued on our quest to unveil France's best-kept secrets. We put Infiniti’s brand new G37 Cabrio luxury convertible to the test—from the emerald Champagne region—home of the world-famous bubbly—to the limestone rich soil of Saint Emilion—where the sweet aroma of the famous macaroon filled the air.

ESCAPESEEKER traveled onward to the art-inspiring lavender-scented Aix-en-Provence where we walked in the footsteps of master artist, Paul Cezanne, and learned how to navigate the colorful local markets; we also delved into the decadent beaches of the French Riviera, before ascending higher to the historic mountain top medieval town of Saint Paul--home to another world famous artist, Marc Chagall.

While we were in "Aix", as the natives like to simply call their gem of a city located right in the heart of Provence, our entire film team was also shadowed by another film crew led by photographer, Deniz Saylan,who had been assigned by INFINITI's ADEYAKA Magazine to follow us during our entire shoot and capture "The Making Of" ESCAPESEEKER.

We decided it would be fun to give you this inside look, made possible by Deniz Saylan. Thank you Deniz! Just click at the following link below. You'll see what eventually resulted in a cover feature story entitled, "A Thing of Beauty" for ADEYAKA Magazine with the following lead:

AN EXTRAORDINARY FORMAT, IMPLEMENTED BY AN EXTRAORDINARY TEAM, WHICH IN TURN IS LED BY AN EXTRAORDINARY LADY. FOR THE TV SERIES ESCAPESEEKER, MEL GEE HENDERSON TRAVELS AROUND THE WORLD WITH HER COLLEAGUES, REPORTING FROM THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES ON EARTH IN A COMPLETELY NEW LIGHT FOR VIEWERS. WHAT DOES A WOMAN LIKE THAT DRIVE? CLEARLY -- IT HAS TO BE SOMETHING OUT OF THE ORDINARY. (Story was written by Patricia Gebhart)

Our entire team agrees with this most perceptive writer. Thank you Patricia for the kind words.

Enjoy...and why not book your own unforgettable French Road Adventure. Honestly, it translates to pure, unequivocal joie de vivre! If you prefer, you can also join us when we return this Fall.

http://www.denizsaylan.com/sources/frontsite/display_file.php?file=slideshow%2F4%2FInfiniti37conv.mov

Here's to Blissful ESCAPES!

Avec Amour,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

THIS IS THE PROPER WAY TO SEE THE SISTINE CHAPEL!

2010-06-03T19:30:00.000-07:00

Jason Wise, ESCAPESEEKER Director, in deep solo contemplation over the magnificence and brilliance of Michelangelo. How rare is it that one has the opportunity to admire his works in the still hours, long after the crowds have disappeared?

USA -- If you are a huge fan of Michelangelo, then this is the ONLY way to see his finest masterpiece--by yourself, or with a very small group of friends--not amidst wall to wall masses that you are barely able to move. If you agree, then join us as we admire Michelangelo's work up close and in the quiet solitude of what it is--a CHAPEL!

The Sistine Chapel ceiling was painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512. Giorgio Vasari wrote that “…when the work was thrown open the whole world came running to see what Michelangelo had done; and certainly it was such as to make everyone speechless with astonishment.” The original Italian version, even more so than the English translation emphasizes the importance of Michelangelo and his art: “…questo bastó per fare rimanere le persone trasecolate e mutole” (translated, "... this is enough to make people remain bewildered and dumb)~~and, Vasari appears to make Michelangelo into a god-like character, someone who alone would make the world run toward the Sistine Chapel and make them contemplate the impact and importance of his paintings.

Come contemplate the significance of his works with ESCAPESEEKER. It will be one for the history books--your personal history book!

For more information, email us: escapeseeker@gmail.com But you must act now.

Ciao,

Mel

MORE BREAKINGS NEWS ABOUT OUR UPCOMING JULY "LA DOLCE VITA"~ "EEE"!

2010-06-03T10:22:00.000-07:00

USA -- Yes, we putting the final touches on our "EEE"~EXCLUSIVE ESCAPESEEKER EXPERIENCE~ which begins on July 19th in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, and ends in Rome, the Eternal City. How apropos that our EEE will also have its launch in Florence. We have no doubt that for many of our EEE participants, this will be a life-changing experience!

With the help of numerous Italian experts and Italian friends, we are taking the experiences captured on film in the ESCAPESEEKER "La Dolce Vita" episode and then taking it up a few more notches. We did not think that would be possible--but guess what? Leave it to our ESCAPESEEKER contacts to perform miracles!

Enough said--why don't I just proceed to give you a small glimpse at our Florence itinerary. Click away, then e-mail me immediately. Your slot is waiting to be filled. escapeseeker@gmail.com

Until then, HERE'S TO BLISSFUL, MEANINGFUL, UNFORGETTABLE ESCAPES!

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

Dear Friends,

Working with the Italians these past few weeks has reminded me why their life is oh so sweet--Yes, La Dolce Vita--they definitely know how to do it...and it is even sweeter than ours because they don't seem to stress about deadlines! But the great news, if your patient, as I have learned to be, together, we can create the most unforgettable Italian adventure ever!

The entire 14-day adventure begins in Florence, July 19-25; followed by Venice, July 25th-29th; ending in Rome, July 29-August 2nd. Here's a sample of our FLORENCE itinerary. It is just sock full of one "bucket list" experience after another. Please take a look and feel free to click away:

July 19th - Monday, Pick up from Florence airport to 5-star, Hotel Relais Santa Croce
http://www.baglionihotels.com/en/destinations/florence-tuscany/florence/relais-santa-croce/hotel

First activity: Evening Welcome to Italy dinner at Frescobaldi Wine Bar and Restaurant, hosted by the gracious Frescobaldi family...even if you're not a wine connoisseur--the cuisine is always guaranteed to be exquisite. You will really begin to feel what it's like to live like a Florentine...Frescobaldi style that is!

http://www.deifrescobaldi.it/en/restaurant-wine-bar-florence/home.html

July 20th - Breakfast @ Hotel Santa Croce
First activity: 11:00 am Travel to Castello di Nipozzano in Tuscany for private lunch with Tiziana Frescobaldi. The Frescobaldi estate in the Chianti Ruffano region of Tuscany is simply breathtaking! A movie set in every regard...but for our EEE participants, it is all very real!
http://www.frescobaldi.it/en/home.html

Evening, Free
July 21st - Open, Free morning, optional tour to see Michelangelo's David
Evening: A gourmet dinner at 3 Michelin-star, Enoteca Pinchiorri, rated one of the best in the world! (This just happens to fall on my birthday--Yeah!)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enoteca_Pinchiorri

July 22nd - In our fleet of red Ferraris, we are guided by Guido and Lorenzo from Red Travel as we breeze through the most beautiful Tuscan landscapes. Honestly, it's one movie scene after another, and you're in the starring role!
http://www.red-travel.com/uk/italia-in-ferrari.htm

July 23rd - The art of Gold making --a private demonstration by a seasoned Florentine craftsman.
July 24th - morning/early afternoon free to explore Florence or just savor your 5-star accommodations...do as you wish.

Late afternoon, we depart for Andrea Bocelli's open-air concert at his beautiful hometown of Lajatico in Tuscany. This will be my second time, and I cannot wait for everyone to have this unforgettable experience!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NN_3oXi6Wgs (I actually witnessed this exact performance in 2008)

July 25th - Travel via train to Venice to experience the "Magic of Serenissima"

I think the Andrea Bocelli concert is a definite must do! Click away at all the links above and I hope you can come join me for the best 5-star vacation ever!

Thank you everyone.

YOU ASKED FOR IT! WE'RE PROVIDING IT! THE ESCAPESEEKER VIP GUIDED "LA DOLCE VITA" TOUR!

2010-05-29T06:38:00.000-07:00

U.S.A. -- Summer is almost upon us and you're still not sure where to invest your hard-earned vacation dollars? Well, think no more. Thanks to our serious ESCAPESEEKER fans who have been following all of our filming adventures, who have asked, "Is there any way you can duplicate those same incredible experiences for us?" Of course! Not only can we duplicate them, with some very special Italian connections, we're taking them up several notches! And, to make it super simple for you, ESCAPESEEKER (that would be me) is personally guiding you to all of these fabulous destinations that are so dear to my heart!

I know what you're thinking--"Oh my gosh, summer is such a crowded time in Italy." You're quite right. That's why you will want to do it my ESCAPESEEKER way. I will take you away from the maddening crowds...you'll experience LA DOLCE VITA, Italian hospitality at its finest, the way it is supposed to be experienced, like the true V.I.P. that you are!

So don't miss out on our ESCAPESEEKER, LA DOLCE VITA endless summer adventure. We depart the U.S. on July 18th and return on July 31st. We'll be taking in Andrea Bocelli's Tuscan concert, wine and dine at the Marquesi di Frescobaldi estate, Castello di Nipozzano with the gracious Tiziana Frescobaldi, and explore the hillsides in our bright red Ferraris. Ciao Bella!

That's just the beginning. To give you an even better idea of all that is in store for you, watch the following 3-minute film trailer below, of our ESCAPESEEKER feature episode on Italy. As you will quickly discover, we are absolutely passionate about all things Italian! And, thanks to the BAGLIONI HOTELS COLLECTION (www.baglionihotels.com) you can count on tastefully decorated, 5-star accommodations with impeccable service at every stop. It is truly unforgettable, "Luxury with an Italian touch"...Perfecto. Only the best for our ESCAPESEEKER VIP's!

By the way, we are keeping our ESCAPESEEKER group very small, ensuring that this "EEE"--Exclusive Escapeseeker Experience is exactly that--EXCLUSIVE!

Come along, we'd love to have you. E-mail us at: escapeseeker@gmail.com for exact details.

Here's to non-stop BLISSFUL ESCAPES!

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

NOTE: PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU TURN OFF THE MUSIC PLAYLIST ON THE RIGHT HAND COLUMN OF THIS BLOGPAGE BEFORE CLICKING ON THE FILM BELOW:

MEET THE MOTTE FAMILY -- THEY REMIND ME EACH DAY, THAT WE MUST NEVER EVER LOSE OUR CHILD-LIKE WONDER!

2010-05-26T16:09:00.000-07:00

U.S.A. -- To our loyal readers, as you may recall, this past April, upon my return from our ESCAPESEEKER French Polynesia filming assignment, I introduced you to the André Motte family from Brittany, France. They are currently on their 10th month of a year-long sabbatical from their former "regular lives", and sailing the majestic blue waters, exploring the dramatically beautiful archipelagos of French Polynesia--and it was there, during our shoot on the Rangiroa atoll that I luckily encountered this remarkable family!

Since meeting them, not a day goes by that I do not think and wonder about the Motte family, as to their whereabouts, how they're doing, and even today, I can still hear the joyful, contagious laughter of their three children, Manon, André-Marie, Corentin, the eldest, and chief fisherman.

As you can see from these traditional black and white images of Corentin captured by our Director, Jason Wise (who by the way reveres the Ansel Adams style of picture taking), Corentin is quite the spear fisherman! On that particular afternoon, he not only assisted his father in making sure their catch made it safely back onto the boat--but we also witnessed him meticulously clean and fillet the fish.

To truly comprehend how unique and amazing the Motte children are, you need to meet their parents, André and Marianne.

You know the famous saying, "The apple does not fall far from the tree." Well, this old adage definitely applies to the Motte family. From remarkable, joyfully courageous, independent, self-reliant parents, come children of the same mold.

Don't take my word for it. I was not the only filmmaker who found the Mottes fascinating. Here you go, witness it for yourself, via youtube, below. No worries--this mini-docu will not steal our thunder. Our ESCAPESEEKER story angle will be bigger than this one. Oh my gosh, I sound just like another fisherman! :-) I do hope you will stay tuned when TAHITI: OH HEAVEN'S HEAVEN special hits the airwaves this Fall!

Enjoy, and may you too be inspired, to never, ever lose your child-like wonder...

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

PS: PLEASE REMEMBER TO TURN OFF THE PLAYLIST AT THE RIGHT COLUMN OF THIS BLOG PAGE BEFORE YOU PLAY THIS VIDEO:

SOME EXPERIENCES ARE SO REMARKABLE, THEY'RE WORTH REPEATING AND SHARING!

2010-05-24T23:00:00.001-07:00

U.S.A. --I'm absolutely giddy with anticipation as the puzzle pieces are quickly coming together for my return trip to the land of "La Dolce Vita" ~ Italy! But I'm particularly happy about this next sojourn because I'm escorting a very special group of ESCAPESEEKER friends and fans, and traveling to the Italian destinations that are so dear to my heart. I will also be introducing our ESCAPESEEKER VIP guests to the many Italian friends whom we met during our filming assignments...individuals and families whose lives truly exude the spirit of La Dolce Vita! If you've ever dreamed of walking in our ESCAPESEEKER shoes, why not join us?

In the meantime, I would like to take the opportunity to share with you each day (prior to our July departure), a unique aspect of our upcoming Italian travel adventures. For example:

A Summer to Remember...

Beneath the Tuscan Sun, We Shall Dine Like a True Florentine

For over 700 years, the Marchesi de Frescobaldi family has been actively involved in the culture, commerce, finance, and history of Italy and of Tuscany in particular.

The Frescobaldi Family began producing Tuscan wine in 1308 from grapes planted on the hillsides around Florence, and soon acquired some very distinguished customers.

In exchange for paintings, the Frescobaldis sold wines to Michelangelo. The family also supplied wine to Henry VIII and have contracts in their family archives signed by the English king. Soon, the Frescobaldi wines became the beverage of choice amongst the Royal families of Europe. The younger members--the 30th generation of the Frescobaldi family are now perpetuating the legacy built by their predecessors, as they take over the reigns of their illustrious Frescobaldi dynasty, still driven by the same passion for excellence that has become synonymous with their world-renowned products, be it Tuscan wine or the best olive oil in the world!

Within the Chianti region, the Marchesi de' Frescobaldi land stretches from Pomino Doc across Brunello di Montalcino, Morellino di Scansano, continuing on through Mugello until the province of Livorno. Since the 1700's proven ability, experience, passion and love has produced a superior quality of wine derived from this region. 1000 hectares of operating vineyards, divided into nine properties, where the perfect balance between atmosphere and the skilled use of raw materials, permits the Marquesi de Frescobaldi the ability to guarantee the quality and unique personality of each wine.

Tiziana Frescobaldi, one of the members of 30th generation of Frescobaldi has kindly offered to welcome our ESCAPESEEKER VIP guests to their Tuscan estate, Castello di Nipozzano, located in the heart of the Chianti Rufina region.

To give you a sneak peak of what to expect on our Italian adventure, just go to our ESCAPESEEKER Facebook page by clicking below and viewing our ESCAPESEEKER film trailer entitled, La Dolce Vita: Italian Passion Personified. Feel free to scroll and view several of our ESCAPESEEKER trailers. As you will quickly discover, our destinations and experiences are absolutely camera-ready!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/ESCAPESEEKER/367501815104

By the way, we will be residing at the 5-star Relais Santa Croce in Florence during our visit. This beautiful 18th century Palazzo is beautifully situated right in the heart of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Everything is within walking distance. You'll be surrounded by so much art and history, you're bound to be inspired just as I was. Yet, the minute you enter its huge entrance and climb up the stairs, you'll suddenly feel as if you've entered a peaceful sanctuary...an artist's or writer's enclave, a luxurious Florentine retreat. It was certainly that for me, and I cannot wait to return. You know you're just a click away. Why not take a private cyber tour:

http://www.baglionihotels.com/en/destinations/florence-tuscany/florence/relais-santa-croce/hotel

There's more to come. So please stay tuned every day.

Here's to Blissful, artful, meaningful escapes!

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR DEEPLY PERSONAL INSIGHTS AND TRAVEL EXPERIENCES...

2010-05-22T07:48:00.000-07:00

The Lone Star State, USA -- There's nothing more satisfying than receiving feedback from our ESCAPESEEKER fans--whether via e-mail, postcards, snail mail, and even via Facebook messages. And, I do take the time to personally respond to each and every communication. Every now and then, I will receive a message that is so insightful from more seasoned, astute travelers than myself that I begin a dialogue...an exchange of ideas and acumen, from which I derive greater knowledge and perspective about an area of the world our film crew has yet to explore. I also gained a new friend. With his permission, I have posted our cyber conversation below. I am compelled to share it with you because the viewpoint and experiences of this seasoned global traveler may be one, to which you too, can relate. In any regard, this writer shares a truly meaningful travel experience in Costa Rica. His perspicacity, I think you will find exceptional. By the way, what you read below has not been edited in any way.

Thank you everyone for all of your letters and comments. Please keep them coming.

Here's to Blissful, meaningful travel experiences...

With love,

Mel

Richard Slackman May 20 at 6:52pm

Many moons ago, when I was younger and the earth was still cooling, I used to travel extensively with a different slant on the world. In the past 10 years or so, about the time George W. Bush sat in the Oval office, the world's attitude towards America changed drastically and I noticed I became a bit more apprehensive. Almost like I wanted to go unnoticed as an American. I began picking my destinations with more thought and a bit more caution. I was fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to visit virtually every National Park in the USA. I worked as a feature photographer for Travel and Leisure mags back in the 70's. So I haven't missed to much here at home. Spent much of my time in Jamaica and the Carib as well. Went to Europe several times as well and back then I was SO proud to tell everyone I was an American. Things have changed globally. America has a tarnished reputation to many outsiders. I try and be an ambassador of good will when I mingle with locals in foreign lands. Tell them all thats good in America. But I suggest to all my friends to get out there, see there world while they still can. There is SO MUCH beauty in foreign countries but I ALWAYS tell my friends to see America FIRST. The National Parks, especially in the off seasons are our jewel. They are so awesome.

I'm rambling . Your fault. Ya got me going and now I don't know how I can wait to September to go back to Europe ;) .

You are charming

Richard

Mel Gee Henderson May 20 at 7:19pm

Dearest Richard...All the reasons you shared are the very reasons we need to travel without our "American lenses"--leave those behind, and see the countries through the respectful eyes of the natives. By the same token, give them the opportunity to get to know us as Americans--no matter our origins or ethnicity--that America is just that--a kaleidoscope of ethnicity...where we can still dream...and follow our heart. I love that I can wake up at any time of day or night and find someone I can skype with, conduct business with...time zones mean nothing to me.

I spent several years producing documentaries about the most impoverished regions of the world--from the "roof of the world", Tibet--to the jungles of Central America, to the roof of Africa--Mount Kilimanjaro--I helped C.A.R.E raise awareness and funds for numerous global relief efforts. Fast forward, today, I get to honor and pay tribute to the men and women whose vision and hard work built some of the most amazing dream destination resorts/properties, etc in the world. It is as if God decided, "Ok, Mel has seen enough of the other side of the world...let's now open the doors for her to see the majesty of what happens when man's ingenuity merge with My creations. :-)

I have yet to meet someone--no matter their station in life--who did not appreciate being respected for who they are. I love the line in the closing song in Le Miserables, where Valjean sings:
"And remember
The truth that once was spoken
To love another person
Is to see the face of God."

Richard, my true objective with ESCAPESEEKER is to simply, SPREAD THE LOVE! I want to be that program that sheds a ray of sunshine in a media full of woe and disturbing reality shows where losers are adored. WQED told me when they sought me out, "Mel, we just simply love how JOYFILLED your show is!" Everyone is starving for JOY! Honest to goodness JOY! I want to send the message to all of those stressed out mothers out there ready to take their next prozac pill--STOP. Instead, go buy yourself a plane ticket, a train ticket, a bus ticket to the most beautiful place on earth--it can be in your own backyard and you don't even know it...stand atop a mountain and ask yourself if you are not grateful that you can still climb? Swim beneath our gorgeous oceans, and tell me you don't see that every single micro organism life's on earth matters--including yours! When I am in the most beautiful places in this world...when I'm talking in a foreign language that takes all of my mental concentration, and I see my new foreign friend smiling so proudly--I am just plain grateful for life! When we're grateful, how can we be blue right Richard?

Let's get rid of all this sadness that permeates our universe...one baby step (one episode :-) at a time!

Thanks for letting me ramble too! :-)

Have a beautiful night...

Mel

Richard Slackman May 20 at 10:50pm

Walter Cronkite your idol, Ansel Adams was mine. I can imagine how you must have felt about Mr. Cronkite. The steward of truth and honesty. An American to look up to, a human being to believe in, a great choice among many. I was selected by Ansel Adams in 1974 to study with him at the Brooks Institute and we spent much of our time together in the wilds of Alaska. He taught me how to see as few people can. He helped me open doors that might have gone unnoticed We shared a lifetime together in an instant and he will always be my friend.

You, dear lady are a joy and an inspiration to behold. I am in awe every time you words, thoughts, ideas, and visions cross my path. I concur with your belief that an "attitude of gratitude" is a blessing. That very man, woman, and child deserves opportunity. That to see the end of world poverty and hunger in our lifetime would be the epitome of man's humanity towards man.

I was in a local dive bar in "Timbuktu", Costa Rica a few years back and I was sharing some photographic stories with a group of new friends I had met fishing that day when all of a sudden I realized I was being surrounded by a group of local natives. Impoverished, uneducated, mall nourished they stood before me and asked if I would accompany them into their jungle to see something that no white man had seen before. A scary proposition to say the least. They said to my surprise, that they needed my help. They also said they could not reveal to me anymore abut what they were doing nor what it was that I might assist them with, but to bring my cameras.

My new fishing friends looked at each other, looked at this group of natives and quickly departed. Somehow, looking into their eyes I felt that this was a mission I could not refuse and that this was no time to consider the apparent danger involved. So as requested, I met them back at that bar at 5:00 a.m., and in the darkness, hoped into their dilapidated old pickup truck and headed off into the deep, deep jungle, perhaps never to be seen again.

Turns out, that after a two hour ride on dirt roads, and a two hour trek thru the jungle, we finally arrived. "Put these on" were their instructions as they handed me a pair of pole climbing boots which had razor sharp spikes sticking out the sides of the heels. I was going "UP". Then they carefully secured me with harnesses and ropes and up the trees we climbed, and climbed, and climbed. 150-200 feet later, we broke thru the canopy of the rain forest that we were in and OMG, what a sight. To say I am deathly afraid of heights would be an understatement, at least without a floor under me. What they wanted me to see became immediately clear.

They had built a virtual highway across the treetops that extended in every which way for as far as the eye could see. WOW, if my friends could only see me NOW, was etched upon my brain. ( I'll send you the pics if you haven't seen some already ). They wanted for me to photograph what they were doing and assist them in securing American financing for more supplies to continue their work. Apparently the jungle down below was too thick, too impenetrable for them to get around and their villages were literally cut off from civilization without this network of bridges.

Why did I tell you about this particular adventure. It certainly won't go down in history as the smartest move I've ever made but if the ends justifies the means then looking back, perhaps it was. I did what they asked, photographed their mission, took it back to the states, secured funding from a variety of different sources and perhaps never felt better about anything I've achieved, ever.

People are intrinsically good. They simply need an opportunity, a vehicle to demonstrate their willingness and ability to help their fellow human beings. I see the world thru those glasses.

warmest personal regards,

Richard

IF YOU LOVE SPICY SALSA, SUN, AND SEA...I HAVE JUST THE PLACE!

2010-05-17T23:50:00.000-07:00

A HAVEN FOR FAMILIES LOOKING FOR A LITTLE MORE SPACE: A striking rendition of the Arch in Cabo San Lucas and built into the cliffs overlooking the powerfully-blue Sea of Cortéz, this resort, I surprisingly discovered, is a great place for even the very young.

Los Cabos, Mexico -- For the last four days, I have gone incognito--that is I've been residing at The Westin Resort & Spa in Los Cabos under a different name--in order to determine how a typical guest--a non-travel journalist for instance, would be treated at this unique, architecturally renowned Cabo landmark hotel. To my delight, I discovered you do not have to be a travel writer to get the VIP treatment at The Westin Resort & Spa in Los Cabos! No, not at all. I should note that I was not a particularly easy guest. I spent most of my time exploring and experiencing the hotel with my companion, my two-year old granddaughter, Violet. As a grandmother to almost 8 grandchildren (July 2nd is when #8 is due) I needed a new story angle. I wanted to find a luxury resort that an entire family--especially, those with young children--could escape to--one that makes even the littlest of people feel very welcome. Well, I must say, our little Violet was treated by the staff just like a Princess! Her favorite hang-out: the swimming pool. Her favorite lunch: chicken nuggets with french fries, served poolside. These chicken nuggets are not of the McDonald's variety. Instead, they're delicious chunks of white meat with a crunchy light-brown exterior perfect for tiny hands to handle. And, since Violet is going through an extremely independent streak, ordering food that she can proudly eat on her own is a godsend. I, on the other hand, loved my refreshing virgin pina-colada. After spending hours in the hot Baja sun, this cold beverage definitely fit the bill...well, that is until Violet accidentally spilled it all over the ground. When I brought our unfortunate incident to the waiter's attention--he immediately beckoned for a staff member to clean it up. A few minutes later, the waiter kindly returned with a newly prepared virgin pina-colada to replace the other--even without being asked. These are the kinds of attention to detail that makes guests want to return again and again.

It is so wonderful to know these kinds of family-friendly resorts still exists today. They're luxurious enough to make this lux-seeking ESCAPESEEKER (and other adult guests) feel at home and pampered; yet, they're not so over-the-top luxurious that children are afraid to act themselves--that is, like children!

Thank you Westin Resort & Spa for creating a superb environment where this "Escapeseeker Grandma" can enjoy some real quality time with Princess Violet, or as her Mama, Joanna likes to refer to her, "Little Escapeseeker in training." I'm pleased to report that based on our own tried and true experience--Violet and I would not hesitate to recommend The Westin Resort & Spa, Los Cabos to any fun, escape-seeking family. If you want to find a resort where the staff sincerely likes children, well, this resort located at the tip of the Baja peninsula--where the mountains and the desert meet the sea--is definitely your kind of place!

So, you're probably asking, "How about the dining options at The Westin Resort and Spa?" Frankly, for the first two nights, Violet and I played so hard during the day that we opted to test out their evening in-room dining menu. Simply, Violet is a huge fan of their Spaghetti with Sauce Alfredo (made especially to her specifications), and I savored their Homemade Tortelloni filled with mozzarella, nuts and basil, fresh tomato sauce and grated parmmesan cheese. Yes, there's more to Mexico than tempting salsa and tacos! However, speaking of salsa, oh my goodness, the morning buffet at La Cascada has the best omelet station, complete with an array of fresh toppings from guacamole, pico de gallo, and the most palate sizzling salsa you'll ever taste!

Last night, I had the opportunity to venture out on my own. So I decided to try their award-winning restaurant, Arrecifies. Walking in and seeing the awe-inspiring view of the Sea of Cortéz immediately made me smile. Superb location? Check! My most pleasant discovery about this fine dining establishment--Arrecifies is headed by two thirty-something Chefs--Elena and Gabriel--who are absolutely passionate about culinary art! And, true artist they are. You just have to come and experience it for yourself. You won't believe what these two can do with the bounties--prized seafood from the Sea of Cortéz!

Each night, we are lulled to sleep by the rhythmic, powerful sounds of the waves...the cool Sea of Cortéz greeting the hot desert sand.

Los Cabos presents two towns with two moods and two styles: Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo — one has always been more of a party town, while the other has transformed itself into a sophisticated travelers’ haven, waiting to be explored. There are six world-class golf courses nearby which includes The Jack Nicklaus Ocean Course at Cabo Del Sol is rated one of the world’s best by Golf Magazine.

When it comes to deep-sea fishing, The Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortéz meet at Los Cabos, creating some of the world’s best year-round sport fishing. Many high-profile marlin tournaments are held here annually, and the bill fishing is superb.

Being the diving enthusiast that I am, I definitely have to return to test my newly acquired diving skills. Legendary diver Jacques Cousteau once described the Sea of Cortez as the "world's aquarium" and the "Galapagos of North America". That alone is reason enough to book another trip. But next time, there's no going incognito. I am the ESCAPESEEKER through and through!

Here's to Blissful Escapes...

With love,

Mel

Postscript: For those of you still wondering where Cabo is, thought you might enjoy this little capsule Geography lesson:

The Sea of Cortez is bordered by the states of Baja California, Baja California Sur, Sonora, and Sinaloa. To the north it is part of the desolate Sonoran landscape, and creates amazing ares where open desert suddenly spills into a beautiful, sparkling coastline. Further down south it laps up against more popular--and more populated--places like Bahia Concepcion, La Paz, San Carlos, and San Jose del Cabo.

PRESENTING THE PRESIDENTIAL SUITE: ESCAPESEEKER HAS ARRIVED!

2010-05-12T13:36:00.000-07:00

The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco -- Earlier this week, while I was spending the Mother's Day weekend festivities with my family in Utah, I received confirmation that a very important meeting I had requested had been confirmed. The meeting place? The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco. Hallelujah!

The Ritz-Carlton is a hotel our entire family is very fond of--one that has always made all the children feel so welcome--even when they were very young. So for me, it was like a coming home. More on that in a moment.

But first, let me tell you about my newest Bay area discovery. I found the easiest, most economical way to get into the city: Air-BART. Yes, from the Oakland Airport Terminal, there's an Air-BART shuttle bus that delivers you to the Oakland BART station for a mere $3.00. From there, the BART train costs only $3.80 and delivers you right in the heart of the action--Powell and Market--where taxi's abound ready to deliver you to your favorite San Francisco district. No rental car pick-up or stressful return for that matter to worry about. No traffic, no congestion to deal with--just pure anticipation of the San Francisco enjoyment that awaits every visitor!

By the way, I have to say, "Thank You" to Southwest Airlines for having the most fantastic ticket policy on the planet! They allowed me to change destination on my already purchased ticket (from Dallas to Oakland) with no change fee! As a matter of fact, they refunded me $6.00 for having one less segment than originally noted. Amazing is it not? There's an airline that actually recognizes that the more they facilitate our lives so we can fly where we have to at any given time, the more we're convinced to be their loyal customers. I'm a new SWA convert. After all, once you purchase a ticket, are you not the owner of the value of that given ticket? Southwest Airlines definitely thinks so. You can change destinations at the last minute. My gosh, I learned you can even apply the value towards a new passenger. Bravo SWA!

With all of these terrific money-saving secrets, I am able to invest in what matters most to me: Where I stay--yes, where I sleep, and how I sleep is very important when you travel as much as this ESCAPESEEKER. I love staying in hotels where I feel I can go barefoot in my suite because it is immaculately clean.

And, I just adore a staff that makes every single guest feel like a VIP--whether you're a young toddler or an adventurous Grandma, like yours truly--or a Hollywood A-lister or have "President" before your name. Everyone at my favorite San Francisco hotel--THE RITZ-CARLTON is a VIP!

So like I mentioned, I grabbed a taxi after arriving at Market and Powell (Parc 55 always has a long line of Yellow cabs) and instructed him where to go. Honestly, I was so excited to be back in the City that I actually found myself gigling so much that the taxi driver asked why? I responded with, "Do you know how lucky you are to be living in one of the most beautiful cities in the world?" His response, "Absolutely! The longer I live here, the more grateful I am!" What a terrific answer--coming from a taxi driver who loves his job!! How cool is that America?

As we arrived on Stockton and California Street, we noticed that the driveway to The Ritz-Carlton was occupied. So, I just asked him to let me off at the curb. I pulled my loyal computer bag and LV overnight bag and snuck past the two doormen who were occupied with helping a handicapped arriving guest. As soon as I entered the beautiful lobby, I thought to myself, "I'm back!" That sentiment was quickly revised when upon checking in, I was informed, "Mrs. Henderson, you'll be in room 910, the Presidential Suite!" Change that thought to, "I HAVE ARRIVED!"

This elegant Presidential Suite had me exploring room to room and asking, "Anybody home?" Just kidding, but I did feel like doing exactly that.

My terrace, with its magnificent cityscape is almost a block long. And, I haven't played a piano in years, but this Steinway grand piano had me playing Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata by heart. Since 1853, Steinway pianos have set an uncompromising standard for sound, touch, beauty. Handcrafting each Steinway requires up to one full year – creating an instrument of rare quality and global renown. Not surprisingly, Steinway remains the choice of 9 out of 10 concert artists, and countless pianists, composers, and performers around the world. Of course, only the best will do for The Ritz-Carlton Presidential Suite!

Isn't life funny? Just a few days ago, I was crawling on the floor, playing with my little grand-baby, Violet, while I babysat her so her Mom could go to her exercise class. Today, I'm the career ESCAPESEEKER, dressed in my tailored suit conducting business meetings in the City By The Bay!

I love the eclectic, global nature of my life. It has been and continues to be one amazing journey, full of serendipitous discoveries and encounters. I feel so blessed in being able to see the magic that others often overlook. I relish the courage I inherited from my Mother, who was fearless when it came to talking to people from all walks of life. I love how Albert Einstein defined serendipity or coincidences in our lives: "Coincidences are God's way of remaining anonymous." Thank you Mr. Einstein for reminding me that there are no coincidences in life. Just pure magic, and I personally believe God is controlling my wand.

By the way, my business meeting--well, mission accomplished! Thank you Ritz-Carlton for another productive day. I know being able to swim several laps early this morning in your warm indoor-pool guaranteed a superb start to my San Francisco day.

Where will my adventure take me next? Please stay tuned...

Meanwhile, here's to Blissful Escapes...

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

TODAY'S ESCAPE: THE HEART OF LUXURY IN THE CITY BY THE BAY

2010-05-11T14:02:00.000-07:00

The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco is where this avid ESCAPESEEKER is bound today! It has been quite a while since I've stayed at this legendary luxury hotel, and I cannot wait to see for myself the results of the hotel's recent $12.5 million renovation. I thought it was fabulous before, so I'm excited to experience the new version. The Ritz-Carlton has always been synonymous with impeccable service and refined living.

What my family and I have always liked about this hotel--it is just blocks away from all of our favorite San Francisco landmark attractions, like Union Square (no surprise--my girls love the shopping and kaleidescope of dining options), not to mention the array of cultural events (we love the San Francisco Opera). Yet, its Nob Hill location is so tranquil. Once you step inside its doors, you'll immediately feel like a bonafide San Franciscan living in the lap of luxury.

Our family has yet to find another hotel in the city whose concierge level can even begin to match that of The Ritz Carlton's. The Ritz-Carlton Club® Level redefines the luxury hotel experience, combining intimacy, comfort and exclusivity with the personalized service and attention to detail that are the hallmarks of The Ritz-Carlton. This "oasis" from the hustle and bustle of one of the world's most international city, is often referred to as a hotel within a hotel, where seasoned concierge attends to guests' individual needs in a well-appointed, relaxed lounge environment. With continuous culinary offerings throughout the day (my children loved the giant jars of homemade cookies), --breakfast, light snacks, hors d' oeuvres, beverages and sweets) and access to a computer station - it is an the ideal place to plan out your activities, or unwind thereafter. For me, I find it so ideal to conduct business--and that is exactly what I have planned.

Well, I better get packing. I cannot wait to return to what I think is the most geographically beautiful city in America--San Francisco. It is no wonder the city steals the hearts of so many!

Here's to Blissful Escapes,

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

TO MOTHERS AROUND THE WORLD, HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2010-05-09T17:20:00.000-07:00

Salt Lake City, Utah -- It's a gorgeous Sunday morning in the Rocky Mountain West, especially along the foot of the majestic Wasatch Mountains. The weatherman has warned that there's a cold front moving in later today, but for now, Mother Nature has seen it fit to delay his predictions and grant a respite from our unusually cold Spring. I'm figuring, if anyone understands how important it is, that this day--Mother's Day--is perfect--it would be Mother Nature right?

Being that it is Mother's Day, I would like to take a moment to pay tribute to the wonderful lady responsible for my insatiable wanderlust--for my drive to persevere even against all odds--and for my desire to seek the good no matter where life leads. Meet Epifania Reyes Peapealalo, my mother, a grandmother, and great-grandmother.

"Grandma Eppie" is how she likes to be called. And, honestly, I do know that she loves her grandchildren and great-grandchildren more than anyone or anything in this world. They are the ones guaranteed to continually bring a smile to her face. Like any Grandma, she proudly shares in their accomplishments. I have one older brother. Mom doesn't really worry much about the two of us anymore--I guess she figures she's done all she can to impact our lives--and it's time to move on to the next generations.

Grandma Eppie's Legacy continues...

Speaking of the next generation, it is quite remarkable that this 80-year old "Matriarch" of our family would see her legacy multiply the way it has. A native of the Philippines, and a naturalized citizen of the United States, Grandma Eppie has had a novel-like journey from her war-torn childhood memories of her tiny Province outside of Manila in the 1940's when it was occupied by the Japanese, to its American liberation when General Douglas MacArthur famously vowed to return--Mom has story after story of how her family of 10 all miraculously survived the ravages of war.

Perhaps, those experiences are the very reasons how my mother was able to meet the challenges of what was to transpire in the '60's and '70's when the U.S. became deeply engaged in another conflict--the Vietnam War. My father was a highly-decorated, career Marine. There was nothing, and I mean nothing, he loved more than serving his country. Mom learned very quickly how to manage our family on her own as Dad served multiple assignments during the Vietnam conflict. She learned how to be both father and mother, and career woman to help supplement our family income; Looking back, Mom never complained about Dad's absence. She embraced her U.S. citizenship, and shared in Dad's patriotic commitment to "God and Country"--and at that time, it meant fighting in the Vietnam war. She never spoke of being lonely. She just focused on keeping our home a place we always looked forward to coming home to each day. It was the gathering place. As I entered my teen years, it became the neighborhood hangout--Mom always had something delicious cooking--and the noisy pool parties added a lot of life to our home. Mom enjoyed the noise. Maybe that's because it took her mind off the war, and kept loneliness and worry at bay.

Mom was absolutely serious about education. Nothing below an "A" grade was tolerated. When I began to show real interest in geography and history, Mom planned a road trip across the United States, so I could see our nation's historic places first hand. We drove all over the United States, just my Mom and I, and a little girl that Mom volunteered to care for so that her single Mom could still go to work. Mom never hesitated to be of help to others--especially foreigners looking to find a way to get a fresh start in America. Sometimes, I would discover that a family would be living with us for an extended period of time--until the parents would secure employment. Mom would just say, "these are your cousins!" Man, I sure had a lot of cousins! To this day, there are many successful families that continue to sing praises about Grandma Eppie, and how she helped them, when no one else would.

I am so grateful to my Mother for the examples she set, not only for me, but for her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Grandma Eppie gives whole new meaning to the admonition, "Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you." I know there are many mothers out there just like my Mom. How blessed are we? I believe the world is a much kinder place because of our mothers!

I am so reminded by the words of Abraham Lincoln who said, "All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother."

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY...

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

MY PERSONAL REFLECTIONS...PAST AND PRESENT...

2010-05-05T23:49:00.000-07:00

Pecan Plantation, Texas -- It's 12:36 a.m. in the Lone Star State, and I'm packing my bags again headed for the "Beehive State"--Utah, where I will be gathering with five of my six children to celebrate Mother's Day. I can't help but look back at how much our lives have changed--or should I say progressed. My children are all grown now, and pursuing their own dreams, striving step by step, to reach the goals they've set for themselves. With such busy schedules, it is so much more complex now to gather as a family. So, whenever the puzzle pieces do come together, we all get so excited! And, the funny part about all of this--when we do gather, what do you think we talk about? Well, after the various life's updates--what we do most is reminisce about the many, many past travel adventures we took as a family...or two by two; or most often it was me with the four younger children who had more flexible schedules.

It all reminds me of Mark Twain's famous quote:

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

I'm a firm believer in living in the present. Embrace all the opportunities that life affords us. After all no one knows what the future brings. I'm not advocating a reckless abandon of planning for the future. But rather, embracing the moment. Perhaps, it has something to do with my sudden realization of how quickly time passes. If you don't think so--here's an illustration:

This first photo was taken of a T-shirt my son, Brennen and I had made. We chose to applique a photo of he and I taken during our summer European cruise in 1994. And, Brennen asked the shop owner to please in script the phrase, "Best Friends" below the picture. Brennen was 11 years old at the time.

The following January, 1995, Brennen and I were fortunate enough to attend the Super Bowl at Joe Robbie Stadium in Miami. We eagerly climbed the bleachers to get to our assigned seats. We were both so excited--these were highly coveted seats--mostly reserved for corporate executives. Brennen felt very special! As we were settling in, Brennen took of his jacket, and what shirt was he wearing? Our Best Friends T-Shirt! He proceeded to ask me, "Mom, where's your Best Friends T-Shirt? Of course, we were in the corporate section, so I had to look the part, and chose not to wear it. But, that priceless memory is forever imprinted in my mind. I felt so cool being Brennen's Best Friend. I knew that would eventually change as he entered his teen years--but at that moment, I held the esteemed role!

Fast forward, 2010, and Brennen is now creating new travel memories with his own family. Here's a second photo of Brennen with his new Best Friends. I hope his little baby, Seren, someday soon says to her Daddy, "Where's your Best Friends T-shirt Daddy?" To which he will quickly respond, "I'm wearing it Seren. How cool is it that we get to be twins!"

With Mother's Day just around the corner, may we all take a moment to pay tribute to Mothers everywhere. We have Hallmark cards to thank for reminding us, "God could not be everywhere, so he created Mothers."

May I suggest another reason? Time is fleeting. Cherish the moments you have together. More importantly, create lasting memories. Take your Mom, your sister, your brother, your Best Friend, and do as Mark Twain advises: Explore. Dream. Discover. There's a big, wonderful world just waiting.

May your lives all be filled with priceless Best Friend memories...

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

Hundreds of ESCAPESEEKER fans have asked to see the faces behind the scenes...

2010-04-28T15:06:00.000-07:00

San Diego -- Ok, you asked for it: During the month-long French Polynesia shoot, we had several "relief crew" that flew in to assist our core team--some of whom enjoy staying incognito. So, here are the faces...see if you can match them to the names below:

Roy A. Henderson, Executive Producer
Jason Wise, Director
Jackson Myers, Director of Photography
Christina Tucker, Producer
Michael Ryan, Editor/Sound Engineer
Joanna Boice, Production Manager
Jessica Maughan, Production Design/Assistant
Garrett Burton Gee, Guest Talent, Production Assistant
Brooke Miller, Guest Photographer
Dr. William Harcourt-Smith, Anthropologist/Palaeontologist/Guest Talent
Amira Thoron, Guest Participant

HERE'S A SNEAK PEAK AT THE TALENTS YOU'LL BE SEEING ON ESCAPESEEKER!

2010-04-23T15:48:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles - Every single episode of ESCAPESEEKER requires the participation of various talented individuals--both in front of the camera, as well as behind the scenes. I thought I would give you a sneak peak of four individuals who contributed to the success of our latest month-long shoot in French Polynesia. We drew our ESCAPESEEKER participants from across the U.S., France, as well as Tahiti and her islands--giving our upcoming episodes a diverse and unique native perspective on French Polynesia. But more importantly, all four of these inspiring individuals are living their dream--pursuing their passions, and doing it on their own terms.

Not only does their presence on ESCAPESEEKER highten our PBS mission "to educate, to inspire, and to entertain--but we feel very blessed to have made some very special new friends!

THE EXPERTS

Dr. William Harcourt received his Ph.D in Vertebrate Paleontology in 2002 from University College London, his M.Sc. in Paleoanthropology in 1997 from University College London and his B.Sc. in Physiology from King’s College London. He is currently Assistant Professor in Anthropology at Lehman College and the Graduate Center at CUNY, and a Research Associate in the Division of Paleontology at the American Museum of Natural History. He also co-directs the Early Miocene field site of Rusinga in western Kenya. His research interests include the origins of hominin bipedalism, paleoecology and hominoid evolution, primate cranial evolution and geometric morphometric techniques. Is your brain dizzy yet? I can't even pronounce half of those subjects. I like to call him Dr. Will. And you know what I noticed? When Dr. Will speaks, people listen. But then again, with that deep "FM" voice and brilliant British accent, he could describe how to make English pudding, and it would still command attention! I learned more about the different phases, the evolution of volcanic islands from Dr. Will in one sitting, than I have in all of my college science courses combined! His enthusiasm for his field of study was definitely contagious.

Mark Eddowes came to Tahiti in l988 as a graduate student in anthropology at the University of Auckland in New Zealand. Studying the prehistory of Polynesia he was invited to excavate archaeological sites in the valley of Papenoo on the north coast of Tahiti. The project lasted four years and he eventually decided to stay on, specializing in Tahitian culture of the 18th century, prospecting, mapping and excavating sites throughout the archipelago. Spend just five minutes with Mark and you'll quickly recognize that he is a man who loves what he is doing!

He became fluent in French and Tahitian, the latter giving him access to numerous communities with whom he has worked and intensified his knowledge of Tahitian society, past and present. He is a student of Professor Roger Green (Harvard University, US, Auckland NZ), a founding father of Polynesian archaeology and the world authority on the “Lapita people” ancestors of the Polynesians. He also began the first systematic studies of the Tahitian maraes, (temples).

Mark has excavated with his persona1 friend, renowned archaeologist Professor Bob Suggs, whose excavations in the 1950's created the model for the settlement of East Polynesia via the Marquesas Islands. As such he is an acknowledged expert and researcher in his field among academians and students alike in Polynesian anthropology.

Mark was resident archaeologist from 1989 to 1999 at the Musee de Tahiti et des iles in Tahiti during which he undertook fieldwork and lived upon numerous islands in French Polynesia. He now resides on the Society Island of Huahine. Mark infused our entire ESCAPESEEKER team with historical and present day knowledge of the Marquesas Islands while on board the m/s Paul Gauguin, which better prepared us for our own exploration of the various Marquesas Islands. We enjoyed his brutally honest, no nonsense approach to Tahitian history.

Frank Murphy, an Expat who has found his paradise on Moorea, definitely inspired our team to think twice about returning to the U.S. Here's an excerpt from a Nat Geo ADVENTURE Magazine interview, wherein Frank Murphy expresses his personal thoughts on his Expat status. This article helped me decide that we definitely needed to get Frank's input on our quest to determine if Heaven's Heaven is in French Polynesia. I think Frank would tell you he has it narrowed down to the island of Moorea!

Our film team completes shooting our interview with Tahiti Historian, Mrs. Hinano Murphy, wife of Berkeley Researcher, Frank Murphy, on the very spot where the original British explorers first landed.

"I'd never thought much at all about Tahiti until a job opened up to manage the University of California-Berkeley's Gump Research Station. Having managed a field station in Baja and been a nature-reserve caretaker in Big Sur for a year, I had decent experience for the job—I guess I was just lucky that the station happened to be in such a great place.

Some people come here with the dream of moving to paradise, but after a while they just burn out—all they can do is complain about what they can't do because of the limited infrastructure. Whiny old expats... don't know why the dream sours for them. Because I deal with tourists and scientists visiting the research station, I feed off their sense of awe, and it reminds me of how beautiful this place is.

In my day-to-day life, I don't really miss the States that much. I guess most people would say they miss the hustle and bustle, and the culture. They get attached to bookstores, the theater, their Starbucks coffee. But I've never been a big-city kind of guy. Of course, I miss friends and family, and the American landscapes—especially the desert and the mountains. Without a doubt, it's beautiful out here, abounding with spectacular peaks, ridges, and bays. I've heard a few people swear that Moorea is the most beautiful island in the world. There's so much hiking; it's easy to get out on the water in a kayak.

I'm married to a Tahitian and have become part of her huge family, so it's not like I'm flitting between worlds. When I think of our friends, they include a whole spectrum of locals, expats, visitors, and folks back in the U.S. People laugh when I say something to my kids in English and they answer in French. It's great. Just like I didn't plan to move here, we don't plan to move away, either. I can see myself living here the rest of my life. "

Andre Motte, a native of Brittany, France, has always dreamt all of his life about sailing across the French Polynesian Islands. Fortunately for Andre, he married a beautiful woman, Marianne, who not only shares his dream, but is also a competent sailor! Fast forward, I'm on the Rangiroa atoll, sitting on the beach, just taking a break from our filming when I watch this remarkable 9-year old boy skillfully navigate his dinghy from a catamaran anchored offshore, and back and forth to the dock. At one point, he returned with his father--so I just had to ask the question? Who are you, and how did you become such a good sailor?

His name is Corentin--the eldest son of Andre and Marianne Motte. Corentin, along with his younger brother, Andre-Marie, and baby sister, Manon, are having the time of their life, exploring every corner of French Polynesia via catamaran! Yes, their family is on their 9th month of a 12-month adventure voyage. After years of planning and preparation, finding and re-fitting the perfect vessel that would meet their young family's specification--taking a year sabbatical from their jobs, and plucking the kids from school, their parents' life long dream became reality on July 20, 2009 when they officially set sail for Huahine, one of the Society Islands.

Honestly, you will not want to miss this episode of ESCAPESEEKER! After arranging to spend some time with the Motte Family, I really wanted to post a new slogan--"A family that sails together, stays together." I have never met such a happy, close-knit, loving and generous bunch of kids! And, regarding their Mom and Dad--well, if the sparkle in their eyes, and the warmth in their voice is any indication--this adventure has provided exceptional glue to the entire family's already cohesive qualities!

Here's a brief recap of the Motte's sailing itinerary:

~ 2 months in Society Islands (Tahiti, Raiatea, Bora-Bora, Maupiti ...) a sort of warm-up to help the whole family acclimate to their new vessel, and new environment.

~ Crossing 2 days to 2 months to the Tuamotu Archipelago lagoons bound for the east (Fakarava Rangiroa, Hao) eventually positioning (relative to the trade winds) to cross to the Marquesas.

~ They pass Austral summer in the Marquesas (Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa, Fatu Hiva ...)

~ Descends to the southeast Gambier, crossing Southern Gambier, spending 2 months between Raivavae Rurutu and witnessing Humpback whales!

~ Their last voyage is back to Tahiti and Raiatea, where they hope to sell their boat before returning to France.

I hope these unforgettable individuals, (just a sampling of the incredible "talents" who will be featured in the TAHITI: Oh Heaven's Heaven episodes), inspire and remind you once again of the saying, "if you can dream it, you can achieve it!"

Thank you for your enthusiastic support of ESCAPESEEKER!

Here's to BLISSFUL ESCAPES...

With love,

Mel

ESCAPESEEKER FINAL TASK ACCOMPLISHED!

2010-04-17T05:18:00.000-07:00

Papeete, TAHITI -- The m/s Paul Gauguin has just pulled in to shore. It has been my home for the last five days--Part 2 that is--of an adventure that began on March 13th when my film crew accompanied the ship and crew on its voyage to the Marquesas Islands. I rejoined the ship on April 12th in Bora Bora in order that I could complete an important task that I had left unfinished. I wanted to prove that the Paul Gauguin is truly a superb way for a novice diver like myself, to become PADI certified, and thus be even better prepared to fully enjoy the "diving mecca" environment that abounds throughout these French Polynesian Islands!

Well, with the expert guidance of the Paul Gauguin diving team, under the direction of Dive Master, Dominique Tehei, on April 16th at 10:00 AM Tahiti time, I officially became a PADI certified diver!

I can't wait for the day when I feel just fine showing my smile underwater like dive master, Dominique Tehei. He is as natural being beneath the sea as he is on land.

The experience has been one mind-expanding, physically exhilirating challenge after another, as I overcame each open water diving requirement. If you've ever dreamed of exploring what lies beneath these glorious French Polynesian waters, and do not quite know how to begin, I highly recommend that you book a voyage on the m/s Paul Gauguin. Not only will you see breathtaking, jaw-dropping vistas that uplift the soul, and mingle with the Tahitian natives who make you instantly feel like one of the family, but you can pursue the dream of swimming with more sea creatures than you ever thought possible! All, under the watchful care and guidance of the most patient diving teachers I have ever met.

What a tremendous ending to our ESCAPESEEKER French Polynesian filming assignment! Not only did we capture enough footage and compelling stories to fill three episodes--but I leave with a treasured new skill--one I look forward to honing as we travel to other exotic destinations around the world.

Thank you Captain Toni Mirkovic, and the Paul Gauguin diving team for celebrating my PADI certification achievement! Just another example of a life-enhancing opportunity that awaits all of us who dare to be a true ESCAPESEEKER!

Stay tuned for TAHITI: OH HEAVEN'S HEAVEN -- a three-episode feature on French Polynesia. You will definitely want to see what we have discovered in our quest to determine, "If Heaven has a Heaven, is it found in TAHITI and her islands?" Well, you will just have to watch and find out!

I better sign off for now. I am disembarking this beautiful vessel at 3:00 AM today to catch my 6:15 AM flight from Papeete to Los Angeles.

I leave these heavenly islands with a treasure of memories. My sincere THANK YOU to all who paved the way and made it all possible for our entire team to accomplish this most ambitious filming endeavor.

I definitely began feeling very Tahitian...and looking like one too. Now, if I can only learn to dance like a Tahitian!

Here's to Blissful Escapes...

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

ESCAPESEEKER DECLARES, "IT'S A WRAP!"

2010-04-09T17:30:00.000-07:00

Moorea -- After an extensive, physically challenging, sleep depriving, "AHA moment" inducing month of filming throughout French Polynesia, the ESCAPESEEKER team called it a wrap at approximately 1pm Tahiti time!

We've all gathered around The Legends poolside lobby having a total cyber buzz--all computers open and reconnecting with the rest of the world. Everyone departs Tahiti this evening, except for me. I will have 8 more crystal-blue water-filled, heavenly days to complete some crucial scuba requirements.

I shall submit more detailed reports of our filming adventure in the next couple of days. In the meantime, I better help the team get packed.

Until then,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

ESCAPESEEKER FILM TEAM MORE GRATEFUL THAN EVER!!

2010-04-06T09:16:00.000-07:00

Bora Bora -- After criscrossing the South Pacific, filming Tahiti and her breathtakingly beautiful islands for the last 4 weeks, the ESCAPESEEKER film team arrived in Bora Bora after dark. All we could really see were the billions of stars above us, and the lagoon waters below. It was fantastic timing actually because my team knew they were in for the ultimate photographer's dream, but it had to remain just that--a dream--until yesterday morning when they awakened to what many only dream of seeing--the postcard perfect, signature trademark of Bora Bora! I get so much joy seeing the amazement in their eyes every time we arrive at a new island, each one so unique in its own way.

Thanks to renowned anthropologists, scientists, and local experts, we have had one incredible mind-expanding adventure after another. But let's not forget the other tremendous reasons we like to ESCAPE. I like to call them the 3 R's: Rest, Relaxation, and Romance. And, there's no better place more conducive to all of the above than BORA BORA! Honestly, if the heavenly environment of Bora Bora doesn't enfuse, revive your relationship with romance, then you better give it serious thought. You may not be with the right person! Bora Bora, "the pearl of French Polynesia" and known as the Supreme Island, is considered by many to be the most romantic place on earth! Two of our cast members, Garrett and Jessica willing obliged to put it to the test.

Rest and Relaxation at this moment continue to elude our film team as we slowly check-off the remaining items on our filming rundown, while we remain focused on our objective--to prove that if Heaven has a Heaven...it would be in French Polynesia!

Tahitians love sharing this story: Rumor has it that God created French Polynesia on the 6th day so that He would have an extraordinarily BEAUTIFUL place to rest on the 7th day! I'm looking out over the crystal blue waters from my bungalow as I write this blog entry...as the morning light is just beginning to break... the dramatic beauty that surrounds me only makes me believe that what the Tahitians say is absolutely true!

If you have not yet set foot on French Polynesia, it is time to put it on your TO DO list! If you would like a reminder, take a peak by visiting the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort's websites:

http://www.intercontinental.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/borabora-thalasso
or
http://www.intercontinental.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/borabora-lemoana

Our entire team has captured sufficient footage, numerous compelling stories to fill not one, not two, but THREE episodes! Our last few remaining days of filming will ensure that our Tahiti feature special will definitely become 90-minutes long!

On behalf of our entire filming team, here's to Blissful, HEAVENLY Escapes...

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

ESCAPESEEKER TEAM COMPLETES DAY 14 OF FRENCH POLYNESIA FILMING

2010-03-24T22:04:00.000-07:00

Moorea -- Or perhaps I should switch the dateline to read, "Somewhere Over The Rainbow"-- for as I write this, I realize I am quickly running out of fingers trying to keep track of how many rainbows we have captured on film during our first two weeks in French Polynesia. I just asked my team if maybe we should consider changing the episode title? And, they quickly responded, "No way! TAHITI: OH HEAVEN'S HEAVEN is our mantra!" Of course, they're absolutely right. Our goal of proving that 'Heaven's Heaven' exist in French Polynesia thus far is proving true. And, we have the footage and photos to prove it!

Our Producer, Christina, overseeing the filming at Radisson's Le 5 Sens featuring the culinary artistry of Chef Lenoir. His delicacies are true palate pleasers.

The famed Black Sand Beach at Radisson Destination Resort, Papeete

I could go on and on for hours describing what we have seen, what we have felt, what we have learned during this remarkable journey. From our first couple of days taking in historic Tahiti Nui (www.radisson.com/aruefrp) and getting a feel for the land, to diving in the Fakarava atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago, to the remote Marquesas Islands--all explored via the luxurious vessel, m/s Paul Gauguin (www.pgcruises.com), and then hopping on an airplane for our 3.5 hour flight back from Nuku Hiva to Papeete where we overnighted just long enough to chase a world champion wakeboarder, "Rodo" (a truly unforgettable filming experience), then jumping onto a Ferry for our 30-minute ride to magical Moorea-- our adventure is action-packed and non-stop! We all collapse every night from exhaustion, but don't doubt it when I tell you, we all retire each night with smiles on our faces, still wondering how in the world we can be so blessed to be here in Heaven's Heaven!

Champion Wakeboarder, "Rodo" doing what he does best with such grace and style!

The view from the Ferry as we approached the island of Moorea. Talk about a movie set! Simply stated, "It's MAGICAL!"

I am writing from the gorgeous hillside villas of The Legends Resort (www.legendsresortvillas.com) looking out over an expanse of the turquoise waters of Moorea--where earlier, we spent most of the day observing/swimming with sharks, spinner dolphins, and other sea life that left us simply awestruck!

Yes, these are exactly what you're thinking. But no worries, they're of the friendly variety!

They say a picture is worth a thousand words-- take a look at the superb photos captured mostly by our still photographer, Brooke Miller, who has been shadowing us since day one of filming...and you would most likely think they're just too good to be true...so may I suggest you hop on the next Air Tahiti Nui flight--LAX/Papeete direct--and in 8 short hours, you too, can begin to share in our incredible adventure.

Before I sign off for the evening, I must extend a huge THANK YOU to Jonathan Reap, and his tireless team at Tahiti Tourism for their invaluable guidance and support. Can you imagine how challenging it is to move our team (equipment and all) from island to island--some of which are only accessible by boat?

Our journals are all packed-full with unbelievable stories. I know that this will be our longest ESCAPESEEKER program credits--as we are indebted to so many people in Tahiti for their unwavering support...and to think, we are only halfway finished! The team is not eager for our assignment to come to an end --they're just savoring every day of shooting! How can we not? Today, we had a three-rainbow day! We love being the ESCAPESEEKER team! And, we will just keep following these Tahitian rainbows...wherever they may lead...at least for 16 more glorious days!

Thank you for following us on this amazing journey. We cannot wait to share the finished two-part episodes featuring TAHITI: Oh Heaven's Heaven with all of you!

Sometimes, I have to conduct interviews wherever our subjects feel most comfortable!

Here's to BLISSFUL ESCAPES...

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

IT'S COUNTDOWN TIME...TROIS, DEUX, UN...FRENCH POLYNESIA HERE WE COME!

2010-03-09T08:57:00.000-08:00

Los Angeles -- It's countdown time...after months and months of preparation/collaboration with multiple Tahiti experts/Mother Nature's cyclone revision of our filming plans/and PBS/WQED's recommended script edits, we're now just hours away from embarking on the most intensive filming assignment to date. Our challenge? Proving why so many literary giants call French Polynesia HEAVEN. Is it truly the most "DRAMATICALLY BEAUTIFUL PLACE ON EARTH"?

We hope you'll stay tuned as we bring you the latest ESCAPESEEKER updates as our film team travels to the Tuamotu Archipelago, Marquesas Islands, and the Society Islands--via ship, via yacht, via planes, via jeeps, via bicycles, on foot, underwater diving--you name it, we're trying it!

I want to thank my ESCAPESEEKER film team in advance, because without their unwavering dedication, respective expertise and talents, I could not even begin to undertake this magnificent French Polynesian adventure!

Roy A. Henderson, Executive Producer
Jason Wise, Director
Jackson Myers, Director of Photography
Christina Tucker, Producer
Michael Ryan, Editor/Sound Engineer
Joanna Boice, Production Manager
Jessica Maughan, Production Design
Garrett Burton Gee, Guest Talent, Production Assistant
Brooke Miller, Guest Talent
Dr. William Harcourt-Smith, Anthropologist/Palaeontologist/Guest Talent
Amira Thoron, Guest Talent

We are also grateful for the tremendous support we are receiving from Air Tahiti Nui, Tahiti Tourism Board, ms/ Paul Gauguin, Haumana Yacht, Radisson Resort/Papeete, The Legends Resort Moorea, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa, and the many native Tahitians waiting and eager to share their unique perspective and life-long knowledge of their heavenly islands with our viewers.

A vous tous, nous donnons nos sincères remerciements.

A bientot,

Mel avec le ESCAPESEEKER team

Cyclone Oli tried to stop us...then the Tsunami warnings across the Pacific...The ESCAPESEEKER film team remains undaunted!

2010-02-28T07:36:00.000-08:00

After months and months of advance research and preparation, countless collaboration with French Polynesian native experts, scholars, leading scientists--combined with the tremendous support of Air Tahiti Nui and the skilled guidance of the Tahiti Tourism Board team led by Jonathan Reap--our ESCAPESEEKER crew is ready to embark on our most extensive filming assignment yet! Stay tuned as we bring you jaw-dropping footage of the dramatically beautiful Marquesas Islands--captured from the luxurious liner m/s Paul Guaguin; to mesmerizing Moorea from our hilltop Legends Resort, to fascinating Tahiti and the historic Black Sand beaches of the Radisson, Papeete, to the world's "divers' mecca"--Rangiroa, a private experience awaits exclusively tailored for our ESCAPESEEKER film team by Haumana Yacht; to James Michener's chosen paradise--Bora Bora and its eco-friendly, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa; whether by boat or plane, on foot or off-road safari vehicles; from volcanic mountain tops to the deepest ocean, our land and underwater cinematographers are geared and ready to go. Our objective: to discover the answer to what so many poets and writers claim: "If Heaven has a heaven--French Polynesia is that place!" What a tough assignment I tell you. What we won't do to bring you the very best in quality television!!!

ESCAPESEEKER...seeking to bring you the very best travel experiences.

Here's to Blissful Escapes,

Mel and the entire ESCAPESEEKER team

REFLECTIONS ON OUR 11-DAY JOURNEY IN THE LAND OF THE RISING SUN

2010-02-10T23:31:00.000-08:00

Originally composed on February 9, 2010--somewhere over the Pacific -- It’s the dawn of a brand new day. I am gazing out the window of our Boeing 777 aircraft and see a crested moon hovering above whipped cream-like clouds. And beyond the horizon, a pink orange stream as if paint-brushed by the sun’s morning rays. Not really sure as to our approximate location at this moment, but I just felt a real urge to write.

Eleven days ago, my ESCAPESEEKER “Advance Research Team” aka “ART” departed for Japan. We weren’t exactly sure what we would find—we just knew it was a country that had fascinated all of us for a very long time—and now we had been given the chance of a lifetime to learn from and with those who know her best. Our home base while exploring Tokyo—The Royal Park Hotel—conveniently located with its own easy access to Tokyo’s transportation systems, and a superb staff willing and able to provide us all the guidance we needed—from walking us through Tokyo’s metro system, to the appropriate etiquette during a formal tea ceremony—to translation services--they were just a phone call away whenever we needed their help. I can’t begin to express how invaluable it is to have the best “land team” to whom you know you can turn for guidance at any time of day.

Our ESCAPESEEKER team is flanked by Hiro Kanno-san (R) and Jintaro Nakayama-san (L), to whom we always turned for guidance. Without their generous assistance, superb guidance, and excellent bilingual skills, our entire research trip would have been much more challenging indeed. They are such great teachers that by the end of the week, we were all able to navigate Tokyo's subway system by ourselves, and ventured out on our own. (Photo by Peyton McCollum--who is rarely seen because she is generally behind the camera.)

I must be perfectly honest. Japan is the one place in this world about which I knew very little. And, when it comes to Japanese cuisine, I’m a huge fan of teriyaki chicken—but that was about it! As a matter of fact, I have an aversion to eating anything that hasn’t come in contact with heat! Accepting the invitation to explore Japan I knew would challenge my status quo—but one I was excited and eager to undertake.

Fast forward, it’s 11 days later and I’m sitting on this return flight to America with a smile on my face as I reminisce about our Japan adventure. Where to begin?

Right off the bat—guess what? Japanese food as we know it in the U.S.—well, with a few exceptions, I would venture to say most of it has been “Americanized”—a variation on the Japanese theme. That was discovery #1. Remember, I’m no rookie when it comes to analyzing cuisine—but I was still very surprised by the dramatic difference between the two styles of cooking. Don't take my word for it. Check out these images captured by our research photographer, Peyton McCollum during our various dining experiences:

Sliced fillets of the freshest uncooked fish crowned with steamed crustaceans was served artfully to our team. The only accompaniments--soy sauce, wasabi (warning--there's lots of it), daikon, and maybe a shiso leaf. This was just the beginning of what turned out to be a 16-course dinner. Talk about instant cultural immersion! My entire team was amazingly resilient. Peyton, Mary Harris Pappas, and Roy Henderson were quick to embrace and savour every single bite, as they followed the example of our exceptional guides--"Hiro-san"and "Jin-san" ...I'm actually feeling a little lost without them now.

Of the 3,000 or so varieties of fish eaten in Japan, the most common, available year-round, are maguro (tuna), tai (sea bream), baze (gobies), buri (yellowtail), saba (mackerel). This particular dried fish variety is quite tasty. By the way, you eat all of it--including the fish head. Has a nice crunch to it!

Japan gives whole new meaning to "Haute Cuisine" when it comes to sweets or "Wagashi" in Japanese. Japan are serious about their sweets! The delicate-looking confections, often made of sweet bean paste, are traditionally associated with the tea ceremony, They are also sold as gifts. And, my photographer, Peyton, upon realizing I had become addicted to these delicious tasting desserts, (they come in a variety of shapes, styles, and sizes) gave me a box as a "farewell gift"...and guess what I'm eating at this moment while I'm composing this very caption? Yes, you guessed it--my box full of "Wagashi"--Thanks Peyton. I already gained 3 pounds while in Japan!!!

Discovery #2: Tokyo, and Japan as a whole, has to be one of the cleanest places on the planet! Thanks to excellent hygiene standards, an upset stomach is more likely to happen due to overeating so many of the delicious foods offered! Even tap water is drinkable throughout Japan. So remember to keep your eating and drinking in moderation...I have to admit, that's easier said than done.

Dan Nakamura-san and his team hosted our ESCAPESEEKER team to a superb "farewell dinner" on our last night at their teppan-yaki-style restaurant, "Sumida" ...we had not experienced it previously, and it was an outstanding time to "audition" the Chef for our Japanese "Cooking Segment"... and it proved to be a perfect casting call. The Chef spoke French and Japanese...so he and I communicated in French every now and then, which will be a terrific way to demonstrate how perfectly able they are...even the Chefs, to care for a variety of international guests! My entire team is still raving about the dinner ...I've never seen marbled beef steaks as delicious and tender as those served to us. I can understand now why Japan has more award-winning chefs than any other country in the world!

Discovery #3: Few allowances are made even for foreigners like ourselves on certain points, mainly relating to Japanese standards of hygiene. It is a serious mistake to wear shoes indoors, or wear the wrong slippers into or out of a toilet area. When it comes to table manners, serious errors include touching food in a communal dish with your chopsticks but then not taking it; shoveling food direct from bowl to mouth, and standing chopsticks upright in rice, this latter no-no has something to do with rituals for the dead and is therefore strictly taboo at the dinner table. However, when it comes to eating noodles or soupy rice dishes--the Japanese slurp with gusto! I'm told it actually helps to slurp so that some of the air created when you slurp can cool the piping hot noodles. This definitely took me some getting used to...as a result, it took me twice as long to eat my soba noodles.

Discovery #4: Our entire team is still astonished at how quickly we began to adapt to the Japanese ways. The Japanese take everything they do seriously. From business, to sports, to other leisure activities...whether it's bathing in onsens (hot springs) to the 'art of shopping' (Tokyo is definitely a shopper's paradise) to hosting a few invited guests for a ceremonial tea--the point of the ritual is summed up by the samurai notion of "one lifetime, one meeting" (ichigo, ichie)--in other words, this is a unique moment to be treasured.

That is exactly the sentiments we feel about our Japan experience...although it was not just one moment...but many moments woven together that has opened our eyes to a culture we knew so little about when we arrived...yet one we are now eager to delve into even deeper. The thousands of images we are now sifting through only serve to plant the vivid memories of this ancient yet modern land into our hearts and minds.

And, by the way, don't let all those serious, somber faces you'll likely encounter on Japan's public transportation systems fool you. Once you get to know them, and visa versa, you will find you are welcomed with warmth and open arms. At least, that was our ESCAPESEEKER experience. We look forward to returning with our entire film team and capturing images such as these below, taken from the rooftop of the Royal Park Hotel one very early chilly morning. What Peyton and I won't do for a perfect picture. But hey, how can we possibly leave without a 'rising sun'--after all the Japan feature episode is entitled, "Land of the Rising Sun."

Peyton and I, along with the Royal Park Hotel night manager, accompanied by the security guard, shivered as we waited for this beautiful sunrise. So worth it...even if it took us a while to thaw out!

We hope to return in time for the Cherry Blossoms...as you can imagine, these trees that dot the landscape of Japan are pretty spectacular. We caught a sneak peak of a winter-variety...one that blooms in the winter...and we weren't the only ones grateful to get a sneak peak. I tell you, I love how Peyton's lens always seems to be just at the right place...at the right time.

A "Royal bird" enjoying the beautiful weather and Winter Cherry Blossoms on the grounds of the Imperial Palace Garden.

Thank you advance team for a job well done. And, thank you very much 本当にありがとうございます (arigato gozaimass) to Hiro-san and Jin-san for putting aside all of your many duties for 11 straight days in order to afford us an insider's look into your remarkable country. Dan Nakamura-san, we are forever grateful to you and your entire staff for making our experience unforgettable.

Our thanks to the entire Royal Park Hotel team, led by Dan Nakamura-san (second from right) for your tremendous support of our ESCAPESEEKER Travel Series. The friendliness of the staff, combined with the Royal Park Hotel's traditional Japanese style of hospitality, made "coming home" after each day's exploration a real pleasure. Also, access to the Executive Level with all of its special privileges (amazing breakfast buffet) gave our team a healthy head-start each morning. I so miss the freshly-squeezed orange juice made just the way I like it! If you're planning a trip to Tokyo, this is the place to anchor your visit. Check it out: http://www.rph.co.jp/english/

Until we meet again, Ki o ts'kete...注意する ("Take Care"..I sure hope that's correct :-)

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

Goodbye Japan...We will be back...

2010-02-08T19:17:00.000-08:00

Narita Airport -- As I wait to board my return flight back to the USA, I can't help but reflect at how much we've learned since our ESCAPESEEKER Advance Research Team set foot on Japan 11 days ago. Yet, I am also totally cognizant of the fact that we've barely scratched the surface...realizing we have a tremendous challenge before us if we are to do justice to this remarkably ancient culture, one steeped in tradition, yet one so technologically advanced. Well, we will definitely give it all we've got.

Unfortunately, my flight is being called, so I must close for now, and will pick up where I left off upon landing in the Lone Star State. In the meantime, ponder these few images...and tell me if these do not make you hop on the next plane to Japan?

Catch you soon...

Here's to Blissful Escapes,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

ESCAPESEEKER ART, Day 5: We're venturing out to the countryside...

2010-02-01T12:34:00.000-08:00

Tokyo -- It is 5 am, and I've awakened to snow-covered rooftops of Tokyo. I never really fell into a deep slumber last night because I'm just too filled with anticipation for today's Advance Research Team (ART) adventure--wherein we will be traveling by car into the countryside. Our destination--HAKONE, a hilly hot-spring town whose attractions are both cultural and natural.

A popular resort destination since the 9th century, the Hakone area extends across the collapsed remains of a huge volcano, which was active until about 3,000 years ago, leaving behind a legacy of hot springs and steam vents. Something I am told must be experienced.

And, to further our immersion into true Japanese lifestyle and culture, tonight we will be staying at a RYOKAN--a traditional inn which demands a high level of etiquette--more details to follow later--since this is an absolute first for this ESCAPESEEKER, it is best to describe after I've experienced it! It will definitely be interesting to see how our entire team adjust to sleeping on floor mats.

Meanwhile, here's a brief history on Japanese Ryokans and a sneak peak at our chosen Ryokan--The Skirakabeso.

Ryokans have been a part of Japanese culture for centuries. Some of the earliest Ryokans were (and some still are) located on the Tokaido Highway which connected the capital city of Edo (current day Tokyo) and the Imperial Palace in Kyoto. It was a very busy highway as samurai, traders, and others made their way between the two popular destinations in the country. Ryokans were built to welcome these weary travelers who needed to rest before continuing on their long journey. Some Ryokans were very simple and offered extra rooms in their homes for travelers while others were more elaborate and served the higher ranks of the government. In any case the owners worked hard to make their guests feel as welcome as possible as they still do today.

Inside a Ryokan Guest Room
A typical ryokan guest room contains:

the "agari-kamachi" (after opening the door guests step into this small area and take off their shoes)
"shoji" (sliding paper doors) which separates the agari-kamachi from the room
"tatami" mat flooring (reed floor matting)
low wooden tables
"zabuton" (sitting cushions)
futon (sleeping quilts)
a "tokonoma" (an ornamental alcove built into the wall used for placing flower vases and hanging scrolls)
an "oshiire" (a closet for futon sleeping quilts)
an "engawa" (a glass enclosed sitting area separated from the room by a shoji)

Well, I better get packing. We depart the Royal Park Hotel today at 8:15 a.m., and based on our experiences of the past few days--our guides are never, never late!

We are filled with anticipation...I love the life of an ESCAPESEEKER...and the knowledge we gain from these new life experiences, and more importantly the increased cultural understanding it affords our entire team.

Stay tuned...and thank you for being such loyal fans and friends of ESCAPESEEKER.

With love from the entire team,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

ESCAPESEEKER ADVANCE RESEARCH TEAM BEGINS DAY 3 IN THE "LAND OF THE RISING SUN"

2010-01-30T12:30:00.000-08:00

Royal Park Hotel, Tokyo -- Our ESCAPESEEKER Advance Research Team (ART) gathered last night at the Symphony restaurant to review and discuss our extensive Japan Research Tour Itinerary--day 3 of which begins today. Our team is comprised of yours truly along with Roy A. Henderson, Executive Producer, and the talented photography team of Peyton McCollum and Mary Harris Pappas--all of whom share my insatiable wanderlust to explore the world, embrace the unexpected, and learn everything we possibly can in the next 10 days as we journey across this fascinating country of JAPAN: Land of the Rising Sun.

Our home while in Tokyo is the luxurious 5-star, Royal Park Hotel. It’s unique approach and distinctively Japanese style of hospitality is world-renowned, and one we are definitely eager to experience. http://www.rph.co.jp/english/index.html

My research team created our proposed "wish list" of the various cultural/historical areas of significance that we are hoping to see and experience to help us shape an ESCAPESEEKER episode that meets WQED/PBS' mission to educate and inspire, and submitted it to the very abled and knowledgeable team members of the Royal Park Hotel headed by the highly respected, Dan Nakamura-san for their review and input. Well, that proved to be a very wise move indeed--as his superb team took the list and expertly revised it to create one even more amazing, in-depth itinerary that far exceeds what I had originally submitted.

With our fluent English-speaking guides, Jintaro Nakayama-san and Hiro Kanno-san, who have already recruited various experts in the field to also assist us, we are confident that our research team will find the stories we are seeking, and capture thousands of story-telling images of this uniquely beautiful country...a country unlike any other Westernized Asian society where tradition and modernity are one.

We are cognizant that our learning process which began long before we arrived, will need to be an on-going continuous effort... for how does one cover 3,000 islands lying along the Pacific Ring of Fire in such a short amount of time...where the Tokyo-Yokohama area alone--the largest urban concentration in the world-- holds 70 percent of Japan's population who reside along the Pacific coast stretch between Tokyo and Kyushu. No worries--our team is undaunted! We will go forward, eager to learn, and embrace all we can as we begin filling in the blanks of our "working script" as we strive to turn it into one compelling story...a richly entertaining episode of inspiring, meaningful television viewing. Hey, no easy task right? But our team thrives on challenges and loves shooting for the stars! Here's a sneak peak at our working script...wherein each day we will strive to make the pages come alive:

EPISODE INTRO: Join us as we journey to the Land of the Rising Sun... to discover the unique culture and unparalleled landscapes of Japan...if you time it just right, you may prefer to follow the sakura zensen, the "cherry blossom front" as it advances from the subtropical islands of Okinawa to the northernmost island of Hokkaido...

Walk through sacred Shinto shrines...witness artisans fashion centuries old traditional crafts of paper-making—and ride the most efficient, world-class bullet train in the world from one end of Japan to another in no time at all...

A visit to Japan lets you experience 11 centuries of history and cutting-edge modernity—all in the same trip... Join us as we strive to bring you a comprehensive view of how Japan’s culture and vibrant traditions influence the promising future of this ancient land. After all, few people in the modern world are not affected in some way by the ideas, culture and economy of Japan!

By the way, for all of you expert shoppers--I've never seen department stores of the scale found in Tokyo...and those of you who know me well, know that I've spanned the globe perfecting the sport. Well, Tokyo wrote the book on elegant presentation and displays...just visit the food section in the basement of Mitsukoshi...I couldn't believe my eyes...it makes Harrod's of London look anemic in comparison. For all of you avid shoppers, I recommend putting Tokyo on your bucket list!

Please stay tuned as we bring you the latest updates as our ART advances each day across this ancient...modern...ever-inspiring Land of the Rising Sun.

On behalf of our entire team...

Here's to Blissful Escapes,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

PS: Our special thanks to Richard White-san who spends a great deal of time in Japan, for connecting the dots for us. We can't think of anyone who is more passionate about its culture... and who possess such great understanding of this country and its people than Richard. Ask even the natives who know him well--from both sides of the Pacific, and they'll be quick to agree.

WQED PROUDLY PRESENTS ESCAPESEEKER...

2010-01-19T00:17:00.000-08:00

ESCAPESEEKER is an entertaining, educational, inspiring, beauty-infused TV travel program. Series creator, Mel Gee Henderson, accompanied by her talented film team, seeks out the amazing destinations of her dreams to create 12, 26-minute stand-alone episodes captured in spectacular high-definition cinematography.

La Dolce Vita, Italian's legendary passion for the sweet life. Director of Photography, Jackson Myers maintains a steady hand while Mel describes the stunning Amalfi Coast as the team cruises on board "HAPPYsimma" near the postcard-perfect town of Positano.

Mel prepares to get a bird's eye view of epic scenery found at the ultimate "Rocky Mountain High" adventure retreat, Three Forks Ranch located in the pristine Sierra Madre Mountains between Savery, Wyoming and Northern Colorado. Surrounded on three sides by National Forest, Three Forks Ranch is a sportsman's paradise like no other. Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall, the wide array of activities you'll discover is as varied as the seasons. The ESCAPESEEKER team stops at nothing to achieve the perfect shot!

Now, I understand why they call this place where three rivers meet, "Fishing Nirvana!"

It is 2010. A brand new year brings brand new opportunities. Opportunities to make wise decisions…about work, about play, about every aspect of your life. It’s a fact. Your money is hard earned, especially during these challenging economic times. Even more reason why how you spend your discretionary funds is a decision you shouldn’t take lightly.

WQED and ESCAPESEEKER, offer PBS' 65 million weekly viewers with an insider’s joyful look into travel destinations that are unabashedly luxurious, with unforgettable experiences impeccably designed to be worthy of your precious investment.

As Travel Journalist and Host, Mel brings her years of globetrotting experiences and insatiable passion for travel, combined with her contagious optimism to create an exciting program proven to inspire viewers to duplicate her adventures.

Make 2010 the year you make your own dreams come true. To borrow the words of writer, Henry David Thoreau: "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined."

Mel saddles up to join Three Forks Ranch seasoned cowboys on her first ever cattle drive. A true "bucket list" experience!

For more information on our ESCAPESEEKER adventures, go to www.escapeseeker.net

BECOME AN ESCAPESEEKER PROGRAM SPONSOR:

When you underwrite ESCAPESEEKER, you take an active role in furthering the success of one of PBS’ most respected institutions, WQED. In turn, the reputation of PBS sets your message apart and enhances your visibility with an audience that expects quality programming and services. A majority of PBS viewers polled believe sponsoring companies are industry leaders and would choose to purchase from PBS sponsors, all other things being equal.

For more information on ESCAPESEEKER SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AND BENEFITS, please call Roy Henderson @ 206.299.6980.

To learn more about WQED, go to www.wqed.org

ESCAPESEEKER TEAM PREPARES TO CAPTURE THE POSTCARD-PERFECT TOWN OF LAGUNA BEACH

2010-01-12T22:52:00.000-08:00

Los Angeles - It is not too often that our ESCAPESEEKER film team secures an assignment that doesn't require a long flight, or no flight at all. It is even more unordinary for our next stop not to require a passport. That's right. No Passport? No Problem! We're going to experience what many in Los Angeles--especially Hollywood--have discovered. A mere 1 hour and 20 minutes drive (even in traffic) and they can escape to one of the most picturesque resort town in California: Laguna Beach. Being a Southern California beach girl, I would even argue that it is THE MOST picturesque town in all of California. Just ask the artists, painters, and writers who have made it their permanent residence, and they'll tell you, "it is an art-inspiring place to live"...a tradition that began in the 1920's when landscape artists began to arrive, and still continues to this day.

You may ask, where exactly do these Hollywood escapees stay when they retreat to Laguna Beach? Of course, you're right in assuming that they're probably the type that treasure their privacy. Well, let's end the suspense now--especially since it is included in the title heading above: MONTAGE LAGUNA BEACH!

I first discovered Montage Laguna Beach, a Resort and Spa, back in 2007 when I was assigned by ESCAPE MAGAZINE to review the luxury resort. Lucky for me, ESCAPE MAGAZINE only assigned me the 5-star variety! The high end magazine was particularly interested in why/how it had become such a popular retreat amongst Hollywood A-listers...especially since many of its own readership are well-healed, high-profile individuals who also appreciate being incognito. So I arrived prepared and determined to find out!

In preparing for our filming assignment, I dug up my 2007 review and the memories just came rushing back. Frankly, I need to share this experience with you so you'll understand why we've elected to return...this time to capture it in moving pictures (as in high-def cinematography). It's interesting isn't it? We often travel thousands and thousands of miles to find the perfect escape...without realizing that sometimes it is just right down the road!

Oh by the way, I've visited the Montage Laguna Beach again recently...just to make sure it was exactly as I remembered. And, guess the answer? Almost. STUDIO, its award-winning restaurant, now has a new award-winning chef. Now, I'm even more eager to try it out...you know how it is with us travel writers...we love doing comparative studies.

Why not see for yourself why so many guests return, and why even the locals call Montage Laguna Beach a "self-contained work of art."

www.montagelagunabeach.com

UNFORGETTABLE FACES OF FRENCH POLYNESIA

2010-01-09T07:21:00.000-08:00

Dallas/Los Angeles/Charlotte, NC -- As our ESCAPESEEKER film team makes final preparations to return to the islands of French Polynesia for the filming of the hour-long episode entitled, TAHITI: OH HEAVEN'S HEAVEN, we are enjoying sifting through thousands of images captured during our (ART) Advance Research Team's visit last October. And, what we've come to realize is, it is not only the majestic, jaw-dropping, goosebump-producing landscape of French Polynesia combined with our thrilling adventures that drive us to return--but, rather the never-ending warmth and engaging spirit of its people.

Our Assistant Photographer, Peyton McCollum, an avid nature documentarian, also has a real gift for capturing faces--particularly children's faces--especially in Tahiti where they seem to just follow her around. Maybe it's because she's a real kid at heart? Peyton's childlike wonder for our beautiful world never ceases as proven by the 33 countries she has already explored with plans to visit 36 more, oh probably in the next three years or so! Peyton is a true ESCAPESEEKER. But her real motto should be, "Have camera will travel"...Team, as you may recall, her camera was glued to her the entire time we were in French Polynesia...and that includes underwater! For as she pointed out, "Every moment in Tahiti is a photo-op!" Gotta lover her! Thank you Peyton for helping us shape and script a beautiful ESCAPESEEKER episode. Together with Sr. Photographer, Justin Grant, you made quite the team. Ok, cinematographers, you have one tough act to follow.

We're all eager to rise to the occasion...intellectually, emotionally, and physically (as proven by our 2010 resolve for daily workouts--so far so great--no one has missed a day!

Before I close, I thought I would share below just a few of the UNFORGETTABLE young faces, as seen through Peyton's lenses. (A big thank you to the parent's who kindly obliged)

Enjoy...and here's to Blissful, Never-ending ESCAPES,

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

TO OUR LOYAL ESCAPESEEKER FANS: A HEARTFELT THANK YOU!

2010-01-05T19:33:00.000-08:00

Dearest friends and fans of ESCAPESEEKER,

Thank you for all of your notes and positive feedback about Monday night's KOCE-TV broadcast of ESCAPESEEKER. Our entire ESCAPESEEKER team is very happy to learn that it made you want to hop on the next plane to France! We're also especially pleased that many of you have indicated how much you are learning from watching each of the episodes. That just makes our day!

The ESCAPESEEKER team at Villa Gallici in Aix en Provence, doing what we love to do!

The great news--with a brand new year, comes a multitude of brand new opportunities for the ESCAPESEEKER team! 2010 will find us capturing the "Art of Living" at the Montage Laguna Beach Resort and Spa, followed by our return to French Polynesia to film, "TAHITI: Oh Heaven's Heaven."

Pondering the ESCAPESEEKER life at the Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa

And, another exciting aspect of our 2010 destinations? Many will be located within the United States and fall under the ESCAPESEEKER theme of "No Passport? No Problem!" Ok, at least that applies to our PBS viewership. For our international fans following us via all forms of cybercommunication--please, no problem--feel free to cross the oceans and explore our massive North American continent with our ESCAPESEEKER team!

There is so much to see, new friends to be made, adventures to embrace--we're so excited to get back on the road...with or without our passports! From the shores of Waikiki... to the rugged, winding coastline of Big Sur...to the enchanting City By The Bay--San Francisco...to the glamour of Hollywood...we'll even test our luck where the "Surf Meets the Turf"--Del Mar!

By the time we finish filming those adventures, we'll be ready to cross the Atlantic once again for some unfinished La Dolce Vita in Positano and Sorrento, along with an infusion of joie de vivre in the City of Lights--yes, you've guessed it-- Paris! We've lined up one amazing Parisien to be our personal insider--"Monsieur Paris" as I like to refer to him because he knows everybody in the city and beyond--will show us how to do Paris in absolute style! Talk about savoir faire --just know that ESCAPESEEKER is about to illuminate the City of Lights!

I'm just hoping that our team goal of whipping ourselves into shape before we dive into the crystal clear, turquoise waters of the Tuamotu Archipelago in March will prove successful. So I must end my report for now. It's almost 8:30 in Texas and I've gotta do 20 push-ups! Yes team, I haven't missed a day yet since I made my promise. I love the gift of a new beginning. Thank you 2010, and HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone.

Here's to never-ending blissful ESCAPES!

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

Wishing you all a JOYOUS SEASON...and May 2010 bring you rich blessings beyond measure...(Please click off Song Playlist before you play the card below)

2009-12-24T09:22:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

THESE BREATHTAKING IMAGES OF FRENCH POLYNESIA--INCLUDING THE ONE ABOVE OF YOURS TRULY, ESCAPESEEKER, CAPTURED AT THE LEGEND'S RESORT-- NEED NO INTRODUCTION...

2009-12-01T17:49:00.000-08:00

They merely explain why our ESCAPESEEKER film team is eager to return to capture TAHITI and her islands in all their splendor...add to that, the unforgettable warmth and beauty of the Tahitian people. Well, simply stated, all of these combined explain why so many who set foot in French Polynesia choose never to leave! I'm not taking any chances: Each of our ESCAPESEEKER team members are being asked to sign a document before boarding our Air Tahiti Nui flight, promising to return to the U.S. after we're done filming! :-)

Approaching the island of Moorea at Sunset

The view from our ESCAPESEEKER still photographer's luxurious over-the-water bungalow at the Intercontinental Thalasso-Spa, Bora Bora. What tough working conditions! Thank you Justin Grant for these beautiful reminders of how good life can truly be. The view from my bungalow was equally stunning. This is one retreat where there is no such thing as a "bad view"...unless of course you're not crazy about the person with whom you're sharing your gorgeous bungalow. UGH! What an awful thought. After all, everyone is beautiful when you're in paradise!

Gives whole new meaning to the term "Nature Guide"

Justin captured this image of a Blue Dolphin riding the wake of this massive vessel as it entered this Rangiroa channel . We were in our diving raft just preparing to find out for ourselves why Rangiroa--particularly this very spot, is known around the world as THE DIVER'S MECCA!

Approximately an hour flight from Tahiti, Rangiroa is the largest atoll in the South Pacific. Its lagoon is gigantic (40 miles long and 20 miles wide, with a depth up to 150 feet), communicating with the pacific ocean by the Avatoru and Tiputa channels. Through these flows a phenomenal quantity of water from the ocean into the lagoon and vice versa. Following the tides are hordes of fish, jacks, tuna, barracuda, manta rays and eagle rays, turtles, dolphins, and everything it seems, that can swim! A short distance out, the reef drops to a depth of 1200 meters.

During six hours, the incoming current carries the clear water of the ocean into the lagoon. Ideal for a drift dive, one can see schools of sharks, squadrons of eagle rays, or maybe a great hammerhead cruising with the schools of fish.

Six hours later, the lagoon empties itself through the passes to the ocean. For better visibility, one may dive on the outside reef next to the pass. You will find small and big fauna: schools of jacks, barracudas, manta rays, as well as several species of sharks, and numerous pelagic fish.

A word of warning: Although Rangiroa always has divable sites in any weather, the average conditions are not for the inexperienced or faint-hearted. The ocean normally has a moderate swell near the passes with a 5 knot current entering in rhythm with the rise and fall of the tide.

It is easy to see why Rangiroa has become, without a doubt, one of the most sought after diver's destinations in the world. My ESCAPESEEKER Director, Jason Wise, an avid scuba diver/underwater photographer, and turtle enthusiast, will now surely think that I'm his "Fairy Godmother!" :-)

In need of the ultimate romantic retreat? How about a moon-lit night on the island of Raiatea, complete with champagne dining at water's edge? If you don't get an "I LOVE YOU" after this setting, it's time to change the cast!

Stay tuned to ESCAPESEEKER in 2010...where we will be presenting an entire hour-long special on French Polynesia, entitled, "Oh Heaven's Heaven."

In the meantime, here's to life's ultimate Blissful Escapes...

Yours truly,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

HAPPY THANKSGIVING ESCAPESEEKER FANS!

2009-11-27T11:05:00.000-08:00

Phoenix, Arizona -- Greetings from the Grand Canyon State, where our very large family decided to gather for my most favorite holiday--the day of THANKSGIVING! As we bowed our heads to give thanks for life's many, many blessings before partaking of the bounties of life--an entire table full of traditional American Thanksgiving delicacies prepared by many hands...and of course anchored around one very large roasted Turkey--we couldn't help but reflect on how blessed we truly are at that very moment.

Surrounded by loving family and friends, we dined outdoors at my daughter and son-in-law's beautiful backyard, amidst the gorgeous hillside desertscape of Phoenix, Arizona. Mother Nature provided not only a beautiful setting, but the weather was mighty fine too. We timed the dinner just right so that five babies, all under two years of age, were napping during the main course. Oh my, but you should have seen the scene during the dessert course--pumpkin pies, cheesecake and pecan, topped with vanilla ice cream and whipped cream covered the babies' faces...and the tile floors too. It was a scene right out of a Norman Rockwell painting! :-)

And, now as I reminisce and sit typing this entry, my 19-month old grandson Brady, is sitting on my lap trying to help me press the keyboards, as we sing-a-long to the tunes found on my blog...albeit paraphrased, "I watch you grow, you''ll learn much more, than I'll ever know, and I think to myself, What A Wonderful World." His twin sister, Olivia seems to be enjoying our song as well.

It is my sincere hope and prayer that you are all enjoying a wonderful THANKSGIVING season, surrounded by those whom you love (and who love you back :-), and may we all have the continued health and strength to contribute to this beautiful world of ours...embracing all that is good...every step of the way.

With love and gratitude to all of you,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

ESCAPESEEKER FRENCH POLYNESIA "ART" RETURNS TO USA WITH MORE THAN 5000 IMAGES!

2009-11-08T10:39:00.000-08:00

Bonjour Escapeseeker friends,

Just want to quickly let you know that we have returned after an incredibly adventurous two weeks in French Polynesia. We're reviewing thousands of images captured by our team of photographers, Justin Grant and Peyton McCollum, and will be back in the next few days to share them with all of you. Get ready to be WOWED!

Until then,

Mel

ESCAPESEEKER ADVANCE RESEARCH TEAM (ART) SET TO EMBARK FOR FRENCH POLYNESIA!

2009-10-10T10:06:00.000-07:00

No destination is too far or too difficult for Escapeseeker to reach!
Now, how appropriate is that Escapeseeker tag line?

Nomade Yachting...

The only way to cruise along this heart-stopping,
breathtaking, azure blue seascape
amidst emerald mountain vistas!

Newport Beach -- I know...I know exactly what you're thinking! And, yes, at this very moment, our entire Escapeseeker Advance Research Team (ART) is feeling very blessed to have the opportunity to embrace the beautiful people and unique culture of French Polynesia. On October 23rd, we will depart LAX via AIR TAHITI NUI (ATN), the international flag-carrier of Tahiti and Her Islands that links four continents to the South Pacific.

www.airtahitinui.com

Our first stop, Papeete, Tahiti, where we will spend the first two days acclimating to our inspiring Tahitian environment before we continue on to Bora Bora to board the luxurious TI'A MOANA yacht, one of the two luxury private yachts offered by NOMADE YACHTING. www.nomadeyachting.com

Blue and every shade thereof...

It is from the vantage point of this beautiful vessel that we will gain a new perspective as we explore and navigate our way through the four Society Islands. And, as ESCAPESEEKER executive producer, host and writer, I'm feeling so incredibly fortunate to have on my ART, three wonderfully talented individuals to help me capture and record our priceless experiences:

1. Justin Grant - We're so excited to have Justin on board . He is in such high demand and to be able to have Justin capture Phase 1 of "The Making of" Tahiti episode(s) is a gift. Speaking of gifts, feel free to view and experience his amazing gift for photography--it is easy to see that Justin was born with this talent. http://www.justingrantphotography.com/

2. Peyton McCollum - I've never met such a bright, spunky, natural born ESCAPESEEKER as Peyton! She has traveled to 33 countries, most recently her travels include Galapagos, China, Mongolia, Namibia, Botswana, and Costa Rica. Peyton majored in Biology and Athropology at Duke University, with a certificate in Primatology. She lived in Kenya for 4 months studying wildlife management, and loves nothing more than hopping on a plane and seeing where life takes her. Sharing in the ESCAPESEEKER mantra, Peyton truly enjoys learning about new cultures and gaining a deeper appreciation for our beautiful planet...and caring for our planet is something she takes seriously. Peyton has completed three Earthwatch projects! We cannot wait to get her input as we work to shape the Tahiti episode(s).

3. Roy A. Henderson - our team leader-- As a former CEO of several financial institutions, Roy's leadership and management skills instill such order and peace amongst the entire ESCAPESEEKER creative team. As those who know him well are often heard saying, "Roy is as calm as an inland lake!" And, calm is exactly what our team needs as we're often logging in thousands of miles, criss-crossing continents and defying time zones! It's also a nice bonus that Roy is not only an expert pilot, but a seasoned, competitive sailor too. However, for this ESCAPESEEKER assignment, he's totally content to be on the gorgeous TI'A MOANA!

I think you'll agree, we have one very exceptional research team.

Here's a sneak preview of what is in store for our ESCAPESEEKER ART:

Bora Bora: The Supreme Island

Among the numerous boulders found on Bora Bora is the Ofai Honu, the Turtle Stone petroglyph that Polynesian mythology claims was the father of this dramatic island.

Possessed with godly power, Ofai Honu mated with the cliff of Mt. Pahia, called Hororai, and from their union a son was born who was named Firiamata O Vavau. This “founder” of Bora Bora gave his name to the island which was known,for many years as Vavau which means “first born.”

This island is located about 230 kilometers (140 mi) northwest of Papeete and is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef. In the center of the island are the remnants of an extinct volcano rising to two peaks, Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, the highest point at 727 meters (2,385 ft).

Taha'a: The Orchid Island

Formerly known to the Maohi pioneers as Uporu, the birthplace of Hiro, the famous god of thieves in Polynesian mythology, Taha’a is shaped like a hibiscus flower with a scalloped shoreline and deep indented bays. In 1769, Captain Cook wrote: “Taha’a offers two very welcoming natural harbours, the one which is on the front is Haamene (the deepest bay of Polynesia), and the other’s name is Hurepiti; it is quite large and we can easily anchor…” Taha'a and its small motus can be reached by boat and outrigger from Raiatea and offers a view of Bora Bora framed by the coconut palms and the lagoon. Originally introduced a hundred years ago, vanilla plantations have flourished on the island which produces 70-80% of all French Polynesia's vanilla. Because of the pervasive aroma of vanilla, Tahaa is also known as the "Vanilla Island".

Raiatea: The Sacred Island

The Polynesian Creation Chants tells of Ta’aroa, the Supreme God who broke out of his shell and created all things. This is how Havai’I (Raiatea) was born. It was the birth place of land, the birthplace of gods, the birthplace of kings and the birthplace of man. And it was to Havai’I that the souls of the dead must return. This holy island became the cradle of royalty and religion as well as the center of Polynesian Maohi culture, history and heraldry.

Raiatea is both the largest and most populated island in the Leeward Islands, with a land area of 167.7 km² (64.7 sq. miles) and a total population of 12,024 inhabitants at the August 2007 census.

Ra'iatea is widely regarded as the 'center' of Polynesia and it is likely that the organized migrations to Hawaii, Aoteroa (New Zealand) and other parts of East Polynesia started at Ra'iatea. A traditional name for the island is Havai'i fanau fenua (Hawai'i birther of land).

Huahine: The Island of Bards

Huahine is actually two islands: Huahine Nui, the great island of the North, and Huahine Iti, the little island in the South – that meet at a beautiful strait and a narrow isthmus. Legend claims the isthmus was formed when it was cut apart by the canoe of the god Hiro. A birthplace and home to many famous writers, poets, artists and singers, Huahine’s world of land, sea and fable is a world where dreams meet reality.

I will not be surprised to find our team leaving with a script sufficient to fill an hour-long special on these heavenly islands! Oh speaking of script, our current working title for this episode:

OH HEAVEN'S HEAVEN

Derived from the poem by Rupert Brooke entitled, "Tiare Tahiti"

Stay tuned as Justin shares with us the series of images that we will capture during this ART adventure. Meanwhile, here are some that will give you an idea of how truly idyllic an experience awaits you at NOMADE YACHTING...definitely no captions needed. My film crew is already preparing for their turn to transform my eventual story into stunning cinematic full length ESCAPESEEKER episode...or maybe two?

If you cannot wait, why not go to www.nomadeyachting.com (they have experts standing by ready to assist...you can even chat online) , and www.airtahitinui.com and book a flight to paradise. Maybe, my ESCAPESEEKER team and I will see you there! And, you know, I'm a big believer in being prepared so I recommend you learn all you can about French Polynesia before you go. Here's a good place to start: www.tahiti-tourisme.com They're more than happy to help you get started.

By the way, if you are interested in sharing this glorious experience with your significant other--especially if your "other" needs added incentive to make you feel more significant :-) --everyone can use a little couple's retreat every now and then right? Well, Tahiti tourism can help guide your way. I love their theme: "Invest In Your Love." Check it out, and let your LOVE begin to grow: http://investinyourlove.com/tahiti-vacations.aspx

Until then...

Here's to Blissful ESCAPES.

With love,

Mel aka Escapeseeker

TONIGHT IS THE NIGHT! Please tune in to KOCE-TV, Channel 10, at 10:00 PM

2009-10-05T16:38:00.000-07:00

Mel Gee Henderson, Creator/Writer/Host/Executive Producer of
Escapeseeker Travel Series, with her Escapeseeker team on assignment in France:
(Front) Mike Ryan, Sound Engineer; Jackson Myers, Director of Photography;
(Back) Jason Wise, Director; Christina Tucker, Co-Writer/Producer

Orange County, California -- After months and months of filming all over our beautiful planet--you will finally have the opportunity to view two full episodes of ESCAPESEEKER on KOCE-TV, Channel 10 (your channel may vary depending on your carrier), tonight, October 5th at 10:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Please tune in! Thank you Escapeseeker friends!

Yours truly,

Mel aka Escapeseeker

BREAKING NEWS: ESCAPESEEKER FRENCH ROAD ADVENTURE SET TO AIR, OCTOBER 5th!

2009-09-13T08:58:00.000-07:00

Dear ESCAPESEEKER fans,

I am so pleased to announce that our program is all set to premiere on KOCE-TV on October 5, 2009 at prime time viewing-- 10:00 pm. Our ESCAPESEEKER team is excited beyond words. Promise us you'll tune in! I know we're competing with my favorite comedian--Jay Leno. But you can all TIVO him right? Ok, all you CSI Miami fans--same goes for you! Yes, you Mr. H!

Our ESCAPESEEKER team will be departing on September 16th for another exciting filming adventure in Ireland and Italy's Amalfi Coast--but you can bet we will be back on October 4th, just in time to view our premiere episodes together!

Thank you everyone for your unwavering support! Check out our program promo below: Please forward the info to every Southern Californian you know!

Love,

Mel aka Escapeseeker

ESCAPESEEKER ROAD ADVENTURE:
UNVEILING FRANCE'S BEST KEPT SECRETS
Monday, October 5 at 10:00 PM, KOCE-TV, Channel 10

Travel journalist, Mel Gee Henderson ventures out to the gorgeous countryside of France to unveil France's best kept secrets in her new travel series, Escapeseeker. From Champagne country, land of the famous bubbly fit for a king, to the verdant vineyards of Bordeaux, you'll begin to understand why wars were fought over this precious French soil. Mel's own version of Tour de France also reveals the art-inspiring, lavender-scented landscape of Provence to the sun-drenched artist retreat high above the French Riviera. Join Escapeseeker joie de vivre and relish all things French in this two-part premiere special.

One Month From Today, Our ESCAPESEEKER Team Will Be Feeling Very Lucky!

2009-08-17T20:48:00.000-07:00

The Banks of the Brazos River - - Hi Y'all! Yup, that's Texas talk. I'm spendin' my August days in the Lone Star State...and I tell ya, there's nothin' like this Texas heat to remind me that in just one month, September 17th, I'm gonna be tradin' this heat for some cool lucky Irish green clover, as our ESCAPESEEKER team begins our filming assignment at The K CLUB, on the Emerald Isle, home of the 2006 Ryder Cup.

There's so much happening in the next few weeks that our ESCAPESEEKER team is barely keeping up with all the excitement!

We are just weeks away from our Season Premiere. We do hope all of you stay tuned. We will definitely be updating this blog before our air date to let you know which PBS stations will be carrying it. Meanwhile, here's a reminder of what is in store on ESCAPESEEKER...when I prove once again that there is no destination on earth too far, or too difficult to reach! By the way, our new ESCAPESEEKER theme song is composed by an incredible talent: Hollywood music producer, Griffin Boice.

I BELIEVE IN MIRACLES...EVEN IF AT TIMES, WE NEED TO CALL IN A FORMER PRESIDENT IN ORDER TO MAKE IT HAPPEN!

2009-08-07T02:22:00.000-07:00

FOREVER SISTERS, FOREVER FRIENDS!
This photo is a wonderful reminder that God does answer prayers.

Los Angeles, California--Sometimes, something so unforgettable happens that one just has to pause from everyday life--even if you're engaged in the time sensitive task of producing a TV Travel Series that's about to air...and give thanks.

You have to live in a cave to not know that the most miraculous event occurred this week--which apparently has been weeks in the making. Former President Bill Clinton successfully negotiated the release of fellow journalists--Laura Ling and Euna Lee. Ever since I heard of their arrest on March 17th--a day has not gone by when I haven't said a prayer for Laura and Euna, along with so many other deeply concerned friends and family-- particularly those of us united via facebook and kept updated by Lisa, Laura's older sister... (also a brilliant journalist). Well, tonight I signed onto facebook, and above is the photo that Lisa had posted for all of us to see...and just like many times before, I cried tears...but this time, they are tears of JOY!

And, the joy-filled photos did not stop there. On Paul Song's (Lisa's husband) Facebook page, we see the "A Team" family photo!

THANK YOU PRESIDENT CLINTON!
THANK YOU "AL" (what Laura called her Current TV boss)

Here's a recap of the now famous rescue by President Clinton, written by Maynard Institute columnist, Richard Prince:

"Two American journalists jubilantly reunited with family and friends early Wednesday upon returning to the United States with former President Bill Clinton, whose diplomatic trip to North Korea secured their release nearly five months after their arrests," Robert Jablon reported Wednesday for the Associated Press.

"The jet carrying Euna Lee and Laura Ling, reporters for Al Gore's San Francisco-based Current TV, and Clinton arrived at Burbank's Bob Hope Airport at dawn. Clinton met with communist leader Kim Jong Il on Tuesday to secure the women's release.

"Lee emerged from the jetliner first and was greeted by husband Michael Saldate and 4-year-old daughter Hana. She hugged the girl and picked her up before all three embraced in a crushing hug as TV networks beamed the poignant moment live.

"Ling embraced her husband, Iain Clayton, as teary family members crowded around.

"'The past 140 days have been the most difficult, heart-wrenching days of our lives,' Ling said, her voice cracking.

"Thirty hours ago, Ling said, 'We feared that any moment we could be sent to a hard labor camp.'

"Then, she said, they were taken to another location."

"'When we walked through the doors, we saw standing before us President Bill Clinton,' she said to applause. 'We were shocked but we knew instantly in our hearts that the nightmare of our lives was finally coming to an end, and now we stand here, home and free.'

"Clinton came down the stairs to applause. He hugged Gore, then chatted with family members.

"Gore described the families of the two women as 'unbelievable, passionate, involved, committed, innovative.' . . .

"After 140 days in custody, the reporters were granted a pardon by North Korea on Tuesday, following rare talks between Clinton and the reclusive North Korea leader. They had been sentenced to 12 years of hard labor for entering the country illegally.

"The women were kept in enforced isolation and fed poor-quality food, Ling's sister said.

"'They were kept apart most of the time. . . . On the day of their trial, they hugged each other and that was it,' Lisa Ling told reporters outside her sister's home in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles.

"'She's really, really anxious to have fresh fruit and fresh food. She said there were rocks in her rice. Obviously, it's a country that has a lot of economic problems.

"'The little bit that she was able to recount of her experience of the last 4 1/2 months has been challenging for us to hear,' Lisa Ling said. 'She's my little sister but she's a very, very strong girl and a determined person.'

Lisa Ling, the reporter for "The Oprah Winfrey Show" and "National Geographic Explorer," spoke briefly to the media this morning outside her sister's California home.

"We are gonna go have a little powwow at home," she said, according to the NECN cable network.

"We are gonna stuff her with food that she loves."

I LOVE HAPPY ENDINGS!!

It is 3:06 a.m. It is time for me to stop reflecting on life, and close my eyes.

Goodnight Escapeseeker fans,

With love and peace,

Mel

ESCAPESEEKER Update: Present and Future...

2009-07-12T10:53:00.001-07:00

Hello ESCAPESEEKER fans,

I hope you're all having a beautiful week. I just wanted to take a moment to update you on all the exciting activities preceding and surrounding our ESCAPESEEKER October 5th KOCE-TV Fall Premiere.

At this moment, the talented members of our ESCAPESEEKER team, from the post production group (writers/director/editors/sound) to the graphics artists, to the composers, have all begun an intense ESCAPESEEKER "repackaging" in preparation for our BIG TV premiere. In the next following weeks, several crucial steps are being taken:

1. The first six episodes will be completed and submitted to PBS/KOCE-TV for review by August 1st. We have acquired enough footage for 8 episodes, but at this time, PBS only needs to see the first six. As you can imagine, our entire film post-production team won't be seeing much real daylight before August 1st.

2. A brand new updated ESCAPESEEKER promo is being cut, hopefully complete with our newly composed ESCAPESEEKER theme song. This will be the promo that will run on PBS/KOCE-TV during August and September leading up to our program's premiere. Talks are also in the works for additional PBS member stations to carry the program--which may result in joint premieres in major cities across the U.S. whose audience demographic is similar to KOCE's.

3. A brand new official www.escapeseeker.net website is currently being built, which will enable visitors to view the promo instantly, view a photo gallery complete with images from all the global destinations we are featuring, provide background info on the ESCAPESEEKER film team, but more importantly, the website will link our destination partners, and enable the visitors to go directly to their site to make reservations. In some instances, visitors will be able to click and request the "Escapeseeker Package" which will closely duplicate my experiences they've viewed on our ESCAPESEEKER program.

By the way, this escapeseeker.blogspot.com site will continue to function as is, but now, visitors will have the additional option to be directed to the escapeseeker.net website too.

4. Ancillary products' design have also begun for the following items:

a. ESCAPESEEKER, journalism -style, glossy coffee table book, highlighting the global destinations we are featuring on the ESCAPESEEKER program.
b. ESCAPESEEKER cookbook, featuring the renowned/talented Chefs featured on the ESCAPESEEKER program, including their signature (often secret) recipes, and the /restaurants destinations with which they're affiliated.
c. MUSIC CD, comprised of all the music/score used in each episode.
d. ESCAPESEEKER inspired fashion line and accessories.

As you can imagine, these are exciting, albeit intense, times for ESCAPESEEKER! Who needs to sleep right? We purposely did not schedule any new filming until mid-September for these reasons.

If you're one of our corporate sponsor prospects, or an interested ESCAPESEEKER investor, may I recommend you ACT FAST, ACT NOW, before you miss one of the most exciting travel adventures ever!!! Call +1 949.689.3297 or write: escapeseeker@gmail.com

In the meantime, here's a sneak peak of where our film team is slated to travel to for our future episodes during the month of September, October and November: Enjoy. Better yet, why not join us? Write or call and we'll give you the details.

www.kclub.com

September 17-24:
At The K CLUB resort, we will set out to "Prove the Luck of the Irish" as we capture on film its stunning championship golf courses, try our hand at Ireland's gentleman style fly-fishing on the River Liffey, and maybe even try our luck on horse racing, fully decked out in the right fashion, hat included of course! Less, we forget, The K Club is also famous for its signature SPA pampering...after all, it isn't easy being the ultimate ESCAPESEEKER!

I love starting my day off with a swim in this climate-controlled swimming pool at the K Club Spa!

Then on September 28th-October 4th, we will continue on to the AMALFI COAST, PALAZZO SASSO in Ravello, to be exact! Now repeat after me, "HEAVEN ON EARTH!" That's exactly what we are calling this episode...and if you have ever set foot in this part of the world, you know what I'm talking about for sure.

Sasso by the sea...I can hardly wait...I know my ESCAPESEEKER film team is already SMILING! Stop smiling so much guys...it will give you wrinkles! Bring it on!!!

You can expect ROYAL TREATMENT only at this Palazzo...nothing less!

October 5th will find our team around the biggest screen possible for the premiere of ESCAPESEEKER...but no worries, we will not rest on our laurels, as we continue to span the world seeking out the greatest destinations on earth. You'll be excited to know that we're including four of our most favorite places in the United States:

www.cavallopoint.com
Stay tuned for this one-of-a-kind tribute to the City By The Bay, complete with our salute to the brave men and women who protect our freedoms (Fleet Week with the famous Blue Angels), and bring you the most amazing luxury hotel transformation you've ever seen--CAVALLO POINT, a once upon a time army housing? You've gotta experience it to believe it!!! The only luxury hotel in the U.S. located in a National Park...with a view of the most famous bridge in the world!
Honestly, you'll be singing the famous Greenwood tune, "God Bless The U.S.A" by the time this episode is done.

www.postranchinn.com
Can you combine "Green" and Romance? Absolutely!!!
If you believe in being earth-friendly, without sacrificing luxurious comfort when looking for the ultimate romantic retreat--you'll definitely want to tune in to this "Greening of America" episode featuring the best kept secret of California's Big Sur coastline: POST RANCH INN--noted as "the most eco-friendly hotel in the U.S."

POST RANCH INN
BIG SUR VIEW

www.montagelagunabeach.com

Need a little help learning "The Art Of Living"...MONTAGE LAGUNA BEACH, California living that is! This episode is for you. From the moment you arrive at these architecturally/ authentically designed California beach bungalows, you'll know you've found the place you've spent an entire lifetime searching for. At first you may think you've stepped into a painting...an absolute work of art...but this is no momentary illusion. MONTAGE LAGUNA BEACH is set on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific along the beautiful, vibrant Laguna coastline of the 'California Riviera'--offering 30 acres of oceanfront luxury! Welcome to your new found life......yes, you can start humming the Beach Boys tune, "I wish they all could be California Girls..."...as a matter of fact, that just may be a California girl...no it's not her look alike...This is a favorite of Jennifer Aniston's too! Congratulations...you're learning the art of California living!

www.montagebeverlyhills.com

Want to feel what its like to live like a HOLLYWOOD LEGEND? Well, not a problem. Check in to the luxurious MONTAGE BEVERLY HILLS...and it won't take look before you will begin to feel and look every bit as glamorous as Hollywood's most famous names...Garbo, Monroe, Newman, and Rock...Hudson that is. If you don't arrive as beautiful as you'd like to be, no worries, MONTAGE BEVERLY HILLS has partnered with Hollywood's famed KIM VO...repeat after me, "salon masterpiece!" Yes, you are truly BEAUTIFUL...a star like no other!

WHAT'S IN STORE FOR ESCAPESEEKER IN NOVEMBER?

Here you go, click at the link below and take a sneak peak at what awaits our ESCAPESEEKER team as we travel to INDIA to film our ROMANCING INDIA episode...if I may borrow the poetic expression describing India by Ananda Coomaraswamy, “It has proved impossible for those who have not seen the ancient gods to represent them: and the powers to be are not yet seen or heard, only the movement of their dance is faintly felt.”

And, if I may also add the words of Pliny the Elder who wrote, “India aboundeth in wonders.” After you view this footage from THE LEELA Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, you will absolutely agree.

http://www.theleela.com/live-the-leela-dl-low.html

Thank you fans and Friends of Escapeseeker for your continued support and contagious enthusiasm as we strive to bring the JOY and PASSION back into TRAVEL!

With love,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

2009-07-12T10:53:00.000-07:00

LIVE THE LIFE YOU'VE IMAGINED AT THREE FORKS RANCH!

2009-07-06T16:17:00.000-07:00

NOTE: Just click on the images to view in full size.

Writer, Nature lover, HENRY DAVID THOREAU, who always looked to nature for greater intensity and meaning for his life once said, "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you've imagined!"

Welcome to Three Forks Ranch. A nature lover's paradise...a place built on one man's dream. This week, the ESCAPESEEKER film team had the opportunity to experience what life is like in the remote corners of Northern Colorado--where God seemed to have worked overtime creating one of the most beautiful, breathtaking place on earth!

Our entire team discovered a new reverence for nature, and for the cowboy's way of life, which by the end of the week, we were more than happy to embrace in every regard...as we quickly learned, it is tough work being a real cowboy!

We hope you'll stay tune to PBS/KOCE-TV ESCAPESEEKER episode, entitled, "Rocky Mountain High" slated to air in October when we will introduce you to the hearty, genuine folks whose vision and focus now enable others (just like me) to live and enjoy the life they've imagined!

Mike, Mel and Jay after a successful cattle drive. I'm sure Jay, Three Forks Ranch GM is very relieved that I managed to stay on my horse. Frankly, so am I! Look around, this is definitely "God's Country!"

Proof that you can make a cowgirl out of a city girl!

Thank you Jay, Justin, Allison, and all the seasoned cowboys who helped our ESCAPESEEKER film team capture your unique western lifestyle!

Less we forget, we must also thank our supporting cast, Augustus McCrae Linderman, Ranch Mascot, who kept a lookout for us city folks, every step of the way. Thanks Gus!!

With love and respect for your nature-loving way of life...

Mel and the ESCAPESEEKER team

MY FIRST TASTE OF "FISHING NIRVANA"...

2009-07-06T15:49:00.001-07:00

Three Forks Ranch - - With Duncan Draper as my expert Teacher and Fishing Guide, I set out to find out why they call the Little Snake River--or to be more exact, the Middle Fork, North Fork, and South Fork Rivers, which all come together at Three Forks Ranch to form the headwaters of what many call, "FISHING NIRVANA!" The Little Snake River meanders through this 200,000 acre ranch, creating one spectacular sportsman's paradise. Well, this budding sportswoman didn't find it so bad either...as I became totally hooked on the sport. Thank you Duncan for the most unforgettable fishing experience anyone can have--novice or expert. Your enthusiasm and love for the sport is undeniably contagious! Don't take my word for it. Here's a sneak peak!

I LOVE THREE FORKS RANCH!

LOOKING BACK AT ESCAPESEEKER'S MONTH-LONG FILMING EXPERIENCE: Part 1

2009-07-03T05:59:00.001-07:00

ESCAPESEEKER'S ROAD ADVENTURE--
LESSONS ON GRATITUDE:

Newport Beach, California -- After 25 hours of traveling by car, plane, and car again, the ESCAPESEEKER film team is back on U.S. soil once more..ok, almost everyone. Gabrielle was offered a $600 voucher if she would volunteer to give up her seat on American Airlines' overbooked flight...and she thought about it for a nano second...one more day in Rome and a free ticket for future travel? What else would you expect from an offspring of an ESCAPESEEKER? I do hope she's on today's plane. Gabrielle loves Italy almost as much as I do!

European lifestyle just seems to agree with Gabrielle!

Well, I awakened at 3:00 a.m. today, which I figured my body is thinking it just had a major sleep-in, because that would be noon in Rome. So, my options were to go to the 24-hour grocery store and start resuming my homelife, or begin making a slideshow of our filming adventure and attempt to convey in writing/images my reflections of what I've gleaned from this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Honestly, looking back, my immediate thought is simple: GRATITUDE.

The month-long journey has filled my heart with GRATITUDE. First of all, none of it would have been possible without the support of my family and the group known as "FRIENDS OF ESCAPESEEKER" who continue to offer their generous support, (both 'in-kind' and financial) and, are helping turn our ESCAPESEEKER TV Series into reality! Next, there's the talented film crew, who go to any lengths in order that we can accomplish what we've set out to do: TO JOYFULLY SEEK OUT THE WORLD'S GREATEST DESTINATIONS! If you think filming is difficult, that's just one-third of the process. The development/planning phase that takes place, even before we set foot on the airplane, is intense. And, now that it is "all in the can" as they say in the business, the long sleepless nights that will follow in order to weave our images into a compelling story is a given...and we are excited to give it all we've got, just as we have done with the other previously shot episodes.

Third, on behalf of the entire ESCAPESEEKER team, I wish to sincerely thank all of the people who gave of their precious time, talents, and resources to participate in our filming process, including the hotel GM's and their hard-working staff--our job would have been so difficult without you! THANK YOU so very much.

On a personal note, what the experiences of this past month has taught me is how ALIKE we all are. We may be culturally different, but when it comes down to it at the end of the day, we are all one...seeking to find JOY in our daily lives by engaging in worthwhile endeavors that make a difference in other people's lives...and forging meaningful relationships with our family, our friends, and luckily for our ESCAPESEEKER team, you are all so open to make new ones. Thank you for taking us into your hearts, your home, and your places of business...and sharing with us those things most precious to you: Your country and its unique art and culture, along with its engaging historic past--we've all learned so much from you and have grown in so many ways (yes, our waistline can attest to that :-)...we are so thankful for the joy and laughter we've shared.

Last but not least, I am grateful for good health that enabled my to do? ESCAPESEEKER team to accomplish all that we had to do...for eyes that enabled all of us to partake of the many unforgettable wondrous beauty that abound...for God's constant watchful eye that kept us safe during our long journey...and for this precious privilege I have been given to share it all with you.

For the next few days, I will attempt to recap each of the stops we made on our filming adventure. Here you go, today's result from my 3:00 a.m. awakening. France, Part 1: ROYAL CHAMPAGNE.

Napoleon and his noble suite used to stop over at Royal Champagne en route to Rheims, where coronations for the Kings of France took place. The luxurious suites afford panoramic views of the vineyards of the Champagne valley. And, its exquisitely pure French restaurant will thrill your palate! Kid you not. But what you may even love most about Royal Champagne is the incomparable attentive service you will receive from every member of their staff. They will ensure your stay is truly unforgettable.

Below is a sneak peak at our ESCAPESEEKER experience.

Remember to stay tuned for Part 2, when we travel southward to Cognac and Bordeaux and arrive at Chateau de Mirambeau.

Keeping you posted,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

AFTER A 4-DAY FILMING REPRIEVE, OUR ESCAPESEEKER TEAM HEADS FOR THE MOUNTAINS OF NORTHERN COLORADO: THREE FORKS RANCH!

2009-07-02T04:59:00.000-07:00

The Rockies--as in Rocky Mountain High--and that's exactly what you feel from the exhilaration of being surrounded by all this natural beauty. My team and I will get to spend 6 glorious days here capturing all that this beautiful land has to offer. It is also important to note that THREE FORKS RANCH is an actual working ranch, so yes you can expect to see this ESCAPESEEKER learning how to do just that--work the land. I've never been on a cattle drive--so this will be a first. I'm super excited also to learn the "art of fly-fishing" from Duncan, the local expert who I understand is the very best there is. Perhaps I will finally begin to understand why fly-fishing is such a "spiritual experience" for so many?

Please stay tuned...I've gotta run for now...we're filming a historic re-enactment of one of the legendary mountain man/trapper who hunted in this valley--Jeremiah Johnson, immortalized in Robert Redford's film of the same name. My film team's creative juices just flow like crazy being surrounded by all this breathtaking beauty. Don't take my word for it. Go to: www.threeforksranch.com

Catch ya later,

Escapeseeker aka Rhinestone cowgirl--ok, you're right, there were no rhinestone cowgirls in the 1850's! :-)

OUR ESCAPESEEKER 'Tour de France' CONTINUED...Next, Uncovering the Best Kept Secrets of Cognac and Bordeaux...

2009-06-29T05:52:00.000-07:00

Chateau de Mirambeau, France -- There's only one way to describe this luxury destination: It's an absolute made for Hollywood movie set--well, in our case, a stunning scene for our ESCAPSEEKER TV series! But, let me emphasize, there's nothing fake about this gorgeous chateau. This is REAL LIFE...from the lavish period-accurate furnishings and abundant fabrics, to the mouth-watering French delicacies meticulously prepared by Mirambeau's talented Chef--it won't take long before you'll notice yourself feeling--and in Jackson's case--sounding very French!

You are now deep in the heart of France where names you've heard many times before will take on whole new meaning: Cognac, Bordeaux, Saint-Emilion. Stay tuned to ESCAPESEEKER. This Fall on PBS/KOCE-TV we will share with you the secrets we have uncovered during our own exciting 'Tour de France'...meanwhile, here's a sneak peak at just some of the images, many of which were captured by our own team at Chateau de Mirambeau and the nearby region. Viva La France!

Abientot,

Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER

PS: Meanwhile, if you're in need of a superb, romantic French hideaway, and can't wait for our ESCAPESEEKER French episode to air--please feel free to go to: http://www.chateauxmirambeau.com/

INFINITI G37 CONVERTIBLE, OUR ESCAPESEEKER STAR and MODE of TRANSPORTATION THROUGHOUT FRANCE!

2009-06-28T05:49:00.000-07:00

Our ESCAPESEEKER team with our fleet of INFINITI luxury vehicles. My stunning G-37 is the most liberating way to explore France...and my crew is still trying to figure out how they can get their hands on their own EX-37...to keep permanently!

INFINITI G37 Convertible: Are you poised to experience the ultimate driving exhilaration while sitting in the most comfortable convertible 'cockpit' in the business? I particularly enjoyed the air-conditioned seats...yes, there's no such thing as sticking to your seats while enjoying the Provence sunshine in the G37!

THANK YOU INFINITI FOR YOUR TREMENDOUS SUPPORT OF ESCAPESEEKER. I am missing "Grace" big time! Here's my tribute to Grace...my G37 INFINITI convertible, whom I named after the Hollywood star/turned Royalty--Princess Grace--because frankly, this amazingly powerful performance car drove with such GRACE, and as you can see, Grace's power only adds to her dignified beauty! But don't be mistaken, this is no "chic mobile"...After all, beneath her stunning beauty, the G37 is an INSPIRED PERFORMANCE MACHINE! Nothing like your hair blowing in the wind as you power across France's breathtaking countryside. Honestly, it is pure symphonic bliss. Oh yeah, and every now and then, I think, this is exactly what life is meant to be! I'm so blessed. Whether your "Born to be Wild" or Born to be Mild-- I've been described as a quiet rebel, myself, driving the INFINITI G-37 will make you SMILE!

One word of caution before you tackle a French Road Adventure...

One added warning however, before you tackle a road trip through France, be sure to have a chunk of change (or a plastic card with sufficiently high credit line) handy for the toll booths. Our three INFINITI cars totalled 75 Euro (25 Euro each, on average) at each toll booth stop! OUCH! It happened so often that my editor/lead car, co-driver, Mike Ryan became fluent in saying in French, "I'm paying for three autos, please," and pointed to the other two INFINITI EX37 behind us. And, let me not forget to mention, France charges a 19 percent sales tax on petro! You don't really realize how good we have it in the U.S. when it comes to road-friendly mobility. There's definitely a price to enjoying the luxury driving machines in France. But then again, if you're driving one of these beauties, you probably can't be too concerned about French toll booths and gas taxes right?

On a good note, we discovered that Italy is definitely less expensive--both in terms of petro cost and toll booth prices. So take your pick. Both countries are undeniably breathtaking. And, I highly recommend that a French/Italian luxury road trip should be on every one's 'bucket list'...it allows you to really get up close and personal with the natives. Our INFINITI vehicles received more than their share of envious glances. Let me just say, the French and Italians definitely appreciate a performance driving machine! It just took me and my Producer, Christina, a little while to figure out that they were not staring at us, but rather, our beautiful cars! So, if your ego needs a boost, I recommend not getting such a beautiful car. :-) On the other hand, if you can say, "Eat your heart out" in French or Italian, you can definitely handle the G37 convertible.

Love,
Mel aka ESCAPESEEKER aka "Quiet Rebel"

PS: Please be on the lookout for the September issue of ADEYAKA magazine (INFINITI's stunning magazine, www.adeyaka.com), which will contain a feature on ESCAPESEEKER! How cool is that?

ESCAPESEEKER TEAM, "ON OUR WAY HOME"

2009-06-25T22:18:00.000-07:00

The ESCAPESEEKER team with Father Mark Haydu, International Director of the Patrons of the Arts in the Vatican Museum who helped make our unforgettable Vatican experiences possible. To learn more go to: http://www.vatican-patrons.org/ and help ensure that these magnificent works of art contained at the Vatican museum are preserved and perpetuated for future generations.

Dear Escapeseeker friends and family...

After the most once-in-a-lifetime experience at The Vatican--not only for filming purposes, but also for general individual enlightenment of the entire team, individually and collectively, we are now packed and ready to head to FCO--Rome's International airport. Our hearts, not to mention our luggage, is oh so very full with gratitude for the priceless experiences we had the opportunity to embrace and capture on film. Italy and France will forever hold very special memories for us for the friendships we have forged and the lessons we gleaned at every stop.

I shall pause for now so that we do not miss our flights...our team cannot wait to weave our episodes together...what a challenge...how does one capture the feeling, the scents, the emotions, the spirits of the remarkable destinations we visited? Capturing their beauty was the easier part--it was one AH HA moment after another for our entire team. We will definitely make every effort to do them justice.

Until then, this is ESCAPESEEKER wishing all of you the most beautiful, productive day,

Love,
Mel

ESCAPESEEKER TEAM: MEETING THE CHALLENGE OF A MOST AMBITIOUS FILMING SCHEDULE!

2009-06-20T23:23:00.000-07:00

CIAO ESCAPESEEKER FANS!

If you've been wondering why the ESCAPESEEKER updates have been non-existent until now--well, to put it frankly, we've been on a continuous filming adventure that is definitely not meant for the faint at heart!

Twelve hour shooting dates filled with incredibly unique, albeit often challenging activities.

For example, how about hot-air ballooning over Champagne region at sunset; or driving "Grace" as in Grace Kelly--my G-37 INFINITI convertible and co-star in the French Riviera episode--on Monaco's own Grand Prix route! All captured on film! I named my car after the beautiful Hollywood legend turned royalty because this amazing driving machine drives with such grace, yet powerfully dignified in its presence and beauty! THANK YOU INFINITI FOR THE NON-STOP ADRENALIN RUSH!

On top of all the filming excitement--we had the added layer of being shot as we were shooting. A bit confusing? Well, while we were filming ESCAPESEEKER, the entire ESCAPESEEKER team was being captured on film by INFINITI's ADEYAKA magazine. Yes, a story about yours truly will be included in their September issue. It is an absolutely stunning magazine...check it out: www.adeyaka.com
I hope you'll keep your eye out for the September issue. :-)

A sneak peak of the ESCAPESEEKER team at work at Villa Gallici
in Aix-en-Provence
(photo compliments of INFINITI)

By the way, the ESCAPESEEKER team was also featured on French TV -- France 3 -- and on radio--my gosh, I hope all this notoriety doesn't go to their heads! I'm not too worried. We are all too exhausted by the end of the day. It's really great how the entire team is rising to the occasion.

I am so grateful for their resiliency...and how quickly they can adapt to any situation.
After all, it is not easy when you are required to drink wine from such outstanding, historic vineyards, like that of the Marquese de Frescobaldi in Tuscany...who by the way, generously sent everyone home with a bottle of their finest wine...and even included their own produced olive oil too!

We are overwhelmed by the generous support and kindness that has been and continues to be extended to us. We continue to forge new friendships everywhere we go, and that is truly the best gift of all. I love being the " ESCAPESEEKER"...and I love my ESCAPESEEKER team!

Pictured above: Jason Wise, Director; Christina Tucker, Co-Writer-Producer; Jackson Myers, Director of Photography;
Mel Gee Henderson, Creator/Host/Executive Producer;
Michael Ryan, Editor/Sound Engineer

After 15 straight days of 12-14 hour shoots, Mr. H aka Roy arrives from the U.S. and takes one look at our team and says, "Mel, I think you could all use a day off. How about sailing with me." No one resisted his recommendation.

Thank you Roy! You revived our spirits and our stamina--which is exactly what we needed to begin the Italy portion of our filming assignment. Roy and Christina left us just as we were departing for Italy--but thank goodness, we acquired two talented team members to give us a hand for the remainder of the shoot.

Olyvia and Gabrielle ready and willing to assist the ESCAPESEEKER team

Gotta run...Venice shoot awaits...I LOVE THIS MAGICAL CITY! We only have two days here to accomplish all that we must do. Then we are off to the final segment of our filming adventure: ROME...and THE VATICAN! Yes, we have been granted the permission to film inside The Vatican, and to participate in the Holy Father's Wednesday Audience. We're trying not to think about it too much...but every now and then, we all look at each other and say, "Oh my gosh, are we really getting to see the Pope?"

Thank you for staying tuned...

With love from the land of Serenissima,

Mel aka Escapeseeker

THE PALAZZO SASSO: Heaven on Earth...Living the Divine Life on the Amalfi Coast.

2009-05-17T23:48:00.000-07:00

(photos by Genivs Loci)

Ravello, Amalfi Coast --. The radiant sun is shining brightly above this towering jewel known as Ravello, a village that has long inspired and captured the hearts of artists, musicians, and writers including Gore Vidal, who was instantly awestruck by its beauty, and so charmed by the local villagers that he decided to make Ravello his home--and oh what a glorious home that turned out to be.

A SLICE OF HEAVEN

For the last seven days, I, too, have discovered what it is like to reside in a glorious home in Ravello, as I have been made to feel like family while being a guest at the luxurious Palazzo Sasso. The stunning five-star hotel is a historic 12th century Italian villa tucked away in this terraced hill top village, and perched high on the cliffs, 350 meters (1,000 ft.) above the deep emerald green Mediterranean. Yes, along the Amalfi Coast, the sea is surprising shades of verdant green, depending on the time of day. By the way, Palazzo Sasso may have been erected in the 12th century, but her beautiful, immaculate interiors definitely defy her age.

As I gazed out each morning from my wide arched glass doors of suite 307 of Palazzo Sasso, it gave whole new meaning to the term, “A room with a view”, as I would feel the sudden, overwhelming desire to smile and just sing my heart out. But I managed to practice some self control so as not to wake the lovely honeymooners next door. But why in the world would anyone want to sleep in when right beneath your gaze an expanse of heaven awaits!

The Palazzo Sasso overlooks some of the Amalfi Coast's most picturesque fishing villages. Since its opening as a brand new hotel in 1997, Palazzo Sasso has been rated as one of the world's finest hotels and boasts its own two-star Michelin dining at Rossellinis. The cuisine is one of the very best with which I've treated my now seasoned and discerning palate. But there’s no doubt in my mind that the highly coveted second star was awarded in great part because of its impeccable service. Eager to sample the cuisine I had read so much about, I decided I would try it out, even if it meant dining alone on my first night. But the staff made me feel totally at ease as I savored bite after bite. There were moments however, that I hesitated to take that initial bite because each dish was so beautifully presented—I didn’t want to ruin it!

Ok, confession time. If I showed signs of being madly in-love with Italy before, well, any trace of doubt can now be totally erased. I can't even begin to truly explain when or how my love of Italy took root. But I suspect it is for the same reason others have succumb. It is that inexplicable feeling, the tugging of the heart, that have caused many to return to this beautiful village time and time again...and for some, those fortunate enough to do so like Mr. Gore Vidal, who decide to make it a permanent love affair, by making Italy their home.

STEPPING BACK IN TIME - - A NOBLE HISTORY

The Palazzo Sasso was named after the prosperous Sasso family from Scala, who were descended from San Romoaldo, founder of the Cistercian order, and San Dominico Sasso, the successor to Saint Dominico who created the Dominican order. Another ancestor was the legendary Gerardo, founder of the Knights of Malta. The "Ravello" branch of the family was linked to Cardinal Ottavio, Governor of the Emilia Romagna region during the reign of Pope Pius the III.

Palazzo Sasso, like many other buildings along San Giovanni del Toro, was part of the aristocratic quarter of Ravello during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

The Sasso family settled in Ravello around 1710 when Domenico Diego purchased the Palazzo Sasso from the noble Bonito family and subsequently restored it. In 1756, his son, Andrea, built the chapel, dedicated to Maria Maddalena Penitente, which is now the lobby of the hotel. Andrea died in 1758 without an heir.

The Palazzo Sasso was then abandoned until the beginning of the 19th Century when it was purchased by the wealthy Camera family. In the mid-19th Century, the first foreign visitors began to arrive, such as Francis Nevil Reid in 1851 and Richard Wagner. When James Becket bought and rebuilt Villa Cimbrone in 1904, Ravello attracted many prominent people, including Virginia Woolf, E.M. Forster, Maynard Keynes, D.H. Lawrence and Andre Gide. Following the example of other local families, The Camera family converted the Palazzo into a Hotel. In 1928 the Viullmieur family assumed the management of the hotel.

During the next half-century, Palazzo Sasso was known as Hotel Palumbo and its guests numbered kings, queens, aristocrats, poets and writers. On the declaration of war against France (in 1939), the French-born Duchess Anna of Aosta (wife of the Viceroy of Ethiopia) was applauded by the people of Ravello when she appeared on a terrace above The Principessa di Piemonte Gardens.

The beauty and tranquility of Palazzo Sasso has inspired many Twentieth Century personalities; the playwright Eduardo de Filippo wrote Saturday, Sunday, Monday on one of its terraces and General Eisenhower resided here while planning the attack on Monte Cassino. Former guests also recall Ingrid Bergman and Roberto Rossellini giggling over dinner in the restaurant.

This era was sadly interrupted in 1978, when the Viullmieur family gave up the Palazzo Sasso in favour of the Palazzo Confalone. The Palazzo then closed for 19 years.

IT'S ALL ABOUT THE GUESTS

Fully restored to its grandeur, it re-opened in July 1997 setting a new standard in the world of fine hotels. Unquestionably, its heavenly setting is a sight to behold. But what truly leaves an indelible mark in your heart and mind is the Palazzo Sasso's superb staff. As the GM, Aaron Kaupp explains when asked how did he assemble such a fine team, he responded, “I purposely seek after those individuals who are blessed with the genuine gift of 'people skills'...those who possess a natural love of people...something you can't teach"--in which he also added, "their experience in the hospitality industry may sometimes be secondary because that is something that can be taught and perfected with time…but the ability to genuinely make each guest feel welcome and special is a definite gift.”

Aaron's formula is undoubtedly working. One staff member who definitely possesses the 'people skills' of which Aaron speaks is the Front Office Manager, Antonio Ferrara, who played a vital role in ensuring that my days were filled with superb activities, that exemplified the tremendous variety that one can experience all along the Amalfi Coast. Whether you want to explore by land, or by sea, or even on foot; whether its new Italian culinary skills you desire, (I highly recommend Mamma Agata's Cooking School--indescribable), or an evening of classical music, or just hanging out with the locals at the village restaurant, Antonio knows everybody--and I mean everybody on the Amalfi coast. The one activity he recommended, but I was unable to fit in--a scooter ride in Capri. He said, "Mel, it is a great way to get up close and personal, as it can get you to places not reached by the regular tourists." So, there you go, I now have one more superb reason to come back to the Amalfi Coast. After all, this ESCAPESEEKER is all about doing the non-ordinary. And, there is absolutely nothing ordinary about the Palazzo Sasso!

A GATHERING PLACE

The Palazzo Sasso is a wonderful place to gather with friends and family, after all, heaven is only “heaven” if you’re there with people you love right? My ESCAPESEEKER advance research team quickly discovered that the Palazzo Sasso is a perfect place to also make new friends. There's something that happens when guests—some total strangers--begin their Amalfi day with Palazzo Sasso’s signature buffet breakfast…complete with omelets made to your exact specifications…served outdoors on the fragrant flower-scented terrace, surrounded by Spring’s bloom, while gazing out into that breathtaking Amalfi Coast that just seem to bring people together. My team and I ended up ‘adopting’ Evelyn and Rick from Canada, who just happen to be walking by the Palazzo Sasso one afternoon and loved it so much that they walked to the reception desk and asked if by chance they had any availability? Well, it was their lucky day. Evelyn and Rick ended up staying three days, and explored the entire Amalfi Coast with us. My advance team liked our newfound friends so much that they ended up leaving together. It seemed we had known them forever. And, as I stayed behind, savoring my last few days I had left at Palazzo Sasso, I couldn’t help but wonder. Is it the contagiously warm and friendly, familial spirit of Palazzo Sasso that makes it so easy to make new friends here? Or perhaps, when you’re in heaven, it is easy to recognize the angels who surround you?

I cannot wait to bring my talented film team to Palazzo Sasso. I know Jackson, Jason, Mike, and Christina will definitely feel as though they’ve died and gone to heaven…cinematographer’s heaven!

A sincere thank you to the Palazzo Sasso staff for making this ESCAPESEEKER research visit one we shall never forget. We definitely long to return, and this time, it will be our turn to immortalize (on film) the shining star of Ravello--THE PALAZZO SASSO!

Here's to Blissful Escapes,

Mel

Leaving our ESCAPESEEKER trail...What a glorious day!

SOMETIMES WE ENCOUNTER A PLACE SO VERY SPECIAL THAT IT MAKES US WANT TO FREEZE THAT MOMENT IN TIME...

2009-04-25T21:25:00.000-07:00

Dear ESCAPESEEKER friends,

It has been quite a while since I've last reported.

Our entire ESCAPESEEKER film team recently returned from FIJI and immediately, our editing team went into post production mode. We found our filming adventure so rewarding that we just couldn't wait to weave the footage and begin telling our story. The genuinely warm Fijian people we met, the spectacular vistas we captured, the knowledge we gleaned from the various specialist at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort, all combined made it a most rewarding experience we shall never forget. To Ty Goulter and your exceptional team, we cannot thank you enough for the tremendous assistance you rendered!

It also really helps that each and every day, we have thousands of images to help us fuel our memories. Take a peak...as good as these images are, they don't quite do justice to the magic of the Fijian Islands, which we've found live up to our episode's working title: FIJI: PURE PARADISE!

ESCAPESEEKER PROMO UNVEILED!

2009-03-21T16:16:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles, California - After weeks and weeks of burning the midnight oil, my entire ESCAPESEEKER team is happy to give you a sneak preview of our ESCAPESEEKER travel series, slated to air on KOCE-TV as part of their brand new 2009 Fall Season line-up.

Our exciting filming adventures continue, so please visit my blogspot often, as the promo will continually change, as we add new footage from our upcoming destinations: In April, our team heads to the South Pacific--Pure Paradise: FIJI, where we will brave the deep turquoise waters with the seasoned scuba diving team of Jean-Michel Cousteau at FIJI ISLANDS RESORT, voted the most "eco-friendly" resort in the world! AMAZING!

Upon our return we will cruise the ruggedly stunning coastline of California's Big Sur, where we explore the historic POST RANCH INN. By the way, speaking of "eco-friendly"--Post Ranch Inn was green long before it was cool to be green! From there we will continue on to the City By The Bay-- San Francisco--a city close to my heart. If you think you know San Francisco, wait until you see what our ESCAPESEEKER team reveals. By the way, you cannot visit San Francisco without a sailing adventure. Well, that's exactly what we are planning to do. We will sail beneath the Golden Gate Bridge with a group of seasoned sailors from the St. Francis Yacht Club. These former Olympic competitors I'm sure will take our cinematographers for quite the spin! I suggest they tie our cameramen down ok? Well, at least the cameras! Our home during this San Francisco adventure? CAVALLO POINT--the only luxury resort located on a National Park!!!

The month of May will find us crossing the Atlantic once more as we prove the luck of the Irish! We are very excited to return to the Emerald Isle and capture the stunning beauty of the K CLUB, along with its magnificent golf courses par excellence--no pun intended.

Towards the end of May will find the ESCAPESEEKER team returning to the land of La Dolce Vita...filled with the Magic of Serenissima, THE LUNA HOTEL BAGLIONI in Venice! We will also revisit the birthplace of the Rennaissance-- Florence, as we immerse ourselves in beauty and culture at HOTEL RELAIS SANTA CROCE.

By June, we will be saying, "Viva La France!" Our team is so excited to unveil France's best kept secrets as we embark on our own version of ESCAPESEEKER's "Tour de France"--a road adventure that will take us deep into the French countryside from the medieval villages of St. Paul de Vence to the champagne country of Epernay and Reims. This French episode is so all-encompassing, you just have to stay tuned.

To all our friends, we thank all of you for your never-ending support and dedication. And if you like what you see in the promo--just imagine what a complete episode will be! Stay tuned for our premiere, October 5, 2009!

By the way, today I learned some very exciting news! The Baglioni Hotels Collection will soon be offering the "Escapeseeker Italy Tour" --so that YOU, TOO, can have the same exciting Italian adventure!! Details to follow. But meanwhile, take a peak at our promo below, and you'll understand why our entire team is pinching ourselves: Can our experiences possibly get any better? From the land of La Dolce Vita to the Rocky Mountain High of THREE FORKS RANCH--we continue to meet the most amazing individuals, each time teaching us new skills, and ultimately helping us to truly embrace the life well-lived. To our new-found friends around the world, WE THANK YOU for sharing our passion for life and the child-like, joyful wonder we feel as we experience the majesty of this beautiful planet earth!

On behalf of my entire ESCAPESEEKER team...

Here's to Blissful Escapes!

Mel

Note: Please turn off the music playlist before you begin viewing the promo video below!

ESCAPESEEKER TEAM IS BACK IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA...BUT LONGS TO RETURN TO THREE FORKS RANCH!

2009-03-07T12:48:00.000-08:00

Newport Beach, California ~ I've already heard back from our crew. Jason, our ESCAPESEEKER Director said, "So, Mel, we're driving down the freeway, and thought, what are we doing here?" Yes, it is a bit of a shock to the system to go from approximately 7,500 feet to sea level. But even more so to segue right back to the fast pace life of Los Angeles. And, one has to ask, "Where did the five billion stars go that glistened above us each night? I have to add, we are all missing the gifted culinary talents of Chef Marc and his entire team. To make the adjustment just a tad easier on my husband, Roy, I had to create a personal menu with his name on it for last night's dinner. I'm just so relieved to know that the ESCAPESEEKER team has been invited back in June. If it is this beautiful and this much fun in the winter, can you imagine how spectacular the experience will be in the summer? FISHING NIRVANA? We will be absolutely ready.

On behalf of the entire team, Thank you Three Forks Ranch for showing us what it is like to have a true "Rocky Mountain High" Winter Adventure. Take a peak below of just some of our favorite images...

Here's to BLISSFUL ESCAPES!

ESCAPESEEKER aka Mel

OUR WINTER ADVENTURES JUST NEVER STOP AT THREE FORKS RANCH!

2009-03-07T10:25:00.000-08:00

The Rockies of Northern Colorado~ When our ESCAPESEEKER team thinks we can't possibly have any more fun, Jessica Philip, Director of Nordic Activities at THREE FORKS RANCH proves us wrong! Here's just a glimpse of our sunbursting Rocky Mountain High Snowmobiling Day! Priceless I tell you, Priceless! Stay tuned, there's more to follow: Cross Country Skiing, Old Fashion Sleigh Ride, "Crew only, x-treme sledding" (this is definitely for the young and fearless only, and by special request...our camera team had an absolute blast!) Amongst my favorite moment, A special "Fireside Chat" with THREE FORKS RANCH resident, Cowboy Poet, Jay Linderman. By the way, Jay also happens to be the GM. We quickly discovered that the entire staff of THREE FORKS RANCH are multi-talented, and seasoned multi-taskers! For instance, there wasn't much Jessica Philip couldn't master. A Dartmouth grad, (BS in Psychology) they kid her about being an "outdoor therapist"--our team gave her the nickname of "Tiny but Mighty"! Well, at the end of every adventure, that's exactly how our ESCAPESEEKER team felt-- MIGHTY revived! Thank you THREE FORKS RANCH for the TREMENDOUS experience!