There are numerous ways of rating a good vacation: A good vacation is one that you want to tell your friends about the moment you get home. It’s one that you can’t wait to repeat. It’s one where there are little, if any, travel snafus, and you managed to remember to pack everything you needed for the trip (from toothbrush to socks, and everything in between).

For the well-traveled foodie a good vacation is one with top-notch food; one that starts with a cappuccino that is perfect, from its first foamy sip to its last, rich, espresso drop. A trip of this nature promises that every bite will be nothing less than the most tantalizing and luxurious flavors that you have ever tasted.

Others would disagree. The more adventurous, explorer types would say that their idea of a successful trip is one that showcases the gorgeous wonders of a world unseen. Places that are pulsating with bright colors and natural landmarks. Places that are amusement parks showcasing the unimagined beauty of our planet. These travelers seek adventures that have them peeking through caves covered in florescent vegetation and animal life. They want to clink mugs of fresh fruit nectars with the locals in the morning, and be lulled to sleep at night by the even swell of crisp blue waters.

            And what do I want as a regular charter yachter? I want it all. Everything from impeccable food to exciting new views of the world is not only yearned for, it’s expected. I know that once I step onto the deck of a charter, my idea of what a good vacation is will be trumped, big time. These are vacations that are in the realm of greatness.

            In this issue of International Yacht Vacations & Charters we are offering you a view of the life well traveled. We will introduce you to the wonders of the Amazon rainforest; the indulgent luxuries yachting on the waters of Cote D’Azur, located on the south coast of France; and the sun-ripened beauty of St. Barths and the Abacos Islands. This issue is an aperitif of the yacht-charter vacations that can be had in these regions. We are whetting your appetite for fun, and inviting you to dig in.

            Be ready to get ideas for your next charter yacht vacation at the Myba Charter Show in Genoa, Italy. The show, running from April 30–May 4, promises to showcase some of the most beautiful and luxurious yachts in the world. The trip is well worth the trip to Italy. Patrons will be delighted not only by nautical sights, but by the rich history and atmosphere that Genoa provides. For more information, log onto www.mybashow.com.

For an equally breathtaking show, state-side, mark your calendars for the Newport Yacht Management Charter Show that will be held on June 19–June 22. For more information, log onto www.nymyachts.com.