Molly Mathis

About Molly Mathis

Posts by Molly Mathis:

A,Panoramic,View,Of,Taormina,,Giardini,Naxos,And,Mount,Etna,

March 13 2023

Adventure Worthy Places That Add Value To Your Travel Bucket List

Get more bang for your buck in places like these….

Peak travel season is fast approaching and we’re seeing record-breaking crowds in all popular destinations.

If you must travel during high season, we highly recommend considering these alternatives to get more bang for your buck.

Most destinations including New Zealand, Costa Rica, the Caribbean and Greece require you to think a year ahead and plan well in advance.

If you can’t wait until 2024 to experience rich culture and the amazing views from these popular locales, check out these options that offer breathtaking landscapes and amazing experiences.

Instead of New Zealand or Australia consider Thailand

This is the year to travel to Asia! Things are back up and running but the crowds haven’t yet returned to pre-pandemic levels.

Asia has endless potential with luxury properties that offer incredible value. I’ll be returning from Thailand in April where we can dive deeper into the unlimited possibilities.

Your adventure to Thailand can include:

Sailing crystal blue waters in a traditional long-tailed boat off the shores of Phuket — steps from your luxury resort
Enjoying a 60-minute Thai massage in Wat Po (built nearly 200 years ago).
Visiting an elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai.
Tasting all the incredible flavors Bangkok has to offer during a private, customized tuk tuk tour

Instead of traveling to Costa Rica or the Caribbean, consider Colombia

If you’re looking to get more bang for your buck this travel season, consider Colombia. It offers rich culture, colorful architecture, mouth-watering cuisine and beautiful marine life without the high price tag and travel cost.

Your adventure to Colombia can include:

Enjoying a privately-guided bike tour of Cartagena.
Sampling local flavors and spices during a customized food tour
Relaxing in a beachside bungalow complete with private pool and sea access.

Instead of Mykonos or Santorini, consider Crete or Naxos.

Instead of going to the most popular and crowded islands in Greece, consider visiting Crete and Naxos. You’ll enjoy equally breathtaking views and adventure possibilities with less crowds.

Your adventure to Crete or Naxos can include:

Exploring the mountains of Crete via a customized Land Rover safari.
“Hiking The Past”– through valleys and local towns in Naxos complete with breathtaking views, food and wine.
Island hopping on a luxury day charter throughout the Cyclades before relaxing in your Naxos luxury resort

: Exploring the crystal clear waters of Phuket from your luxury resort property

: Colorful Colombia

1 2

March 13 2023

Best Eats and Drinks From Morocco and Chile

Musings

Two recipes allowing you to experience culture without having to go anywhere

One of the things we love most about travel is the opportunity to experience other cultures. And there’s often no better way to do this that by eating like a local.

In honor of our recent adventures to Morocco and Chile, we’re sharing our favorite new dinner and cocktail recipes with you.

Close your eyes and let these flavors take you away!

CHICKEN TAGINE – MOROCCO

Chicken Tagine is a classic Moroccan dish cooked in a traditional clay pot. There are different variations of tagine with different meats, fish and vegetables. This recipe we’ll be sharing with you includes chicken but feel free to substitute your favorite protein.

While in Morocco, we took a hands-on cooking class where we learned how to make this classic, traditional meal. This dish has a wonderful combination of spices and garlic and is very easy to make! Follow the recipe below to incorporate some Moroccan cuisine into your next weekly meal plan.

Ingredients:

1 lb whole chicken (cut into large chunks)
½ red onion (finely chopped)
½ lemon
10 purple or green olives
2 cloves of garlic (finely chopped)
1 tablespoons of parsley (finely chopped)
1 tablespoons of cilantro (finely chopped)
2 table tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
Water

Spices:

½ tablespoon pepper
1 teaspoon ginger powder
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 pinch of saffron threads

Instructions:

Cut the preserved lemon in half and separate the flesh from the peel.
Set the peel aside and finely chop the preserved lemon pulp.
Place the chopped lemon pulp in a tagine (Moroccan clay pot)
Add olive oil, ghee, garlic, parsley, cilantro, all spices and cup of cold water
Mix everything well.
Add the chicken pieces to the tagine and pierce them with a sharp knife so they absorb the spices.
Mix all the ingredients until the chicken pieces are well coated with the marmalade.
Add the finely chopped onion to the tajine and mix well.
On low heat, sear the chicken for 15 minutes (tajine lid should be on to keep moisture in)
Turn each piece of chick over and add a bit of water if necessary.
After 15 minutes, add 1 cup of cold water.
Increase the heat to medium, cover the tagine and bring the cooking juices to a boil.
Cook covered for 30 minutes or until the chicken is done.
Check on the chicken and add water, if necessary, make sure there is enough sauce at the bottom of the tajine so the chicken won’t burn.
Once the chicken is done, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning.
Add the lemon peel and olives to the tagine.
Continue cooking, uncovered until the sauce slightly thickens (few minutes).

PISCO SOUR — CHILE

If you’ve seen a Pisco Sour pop up on a bar menu lately and haven’t tried it, here’s your chance. The Pisco Sour Cocktail is both refreshing and tangy, perfect for those outdoor patio nights. Get ready to feel as if you transported to Chile while drinking this South American sipper.

Pisco Sour Cocktail Recipe:

2 oz of Pisco
1 oz of fresh squeezed lime juice
1 oz of simple syrup
1 fresh egg white
1 dash of Angostura or Amargo bitters

Instructions:

Combine Pisco, lime, simple syrup and egg white in a cocktail shaker with ice.
Shake until the egg white is foamy (about 12 seconds).
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass (reserving a bit of liquid in the shaker)
Shake again for 10 seconds (whipping the egg white more)
Top off the glasses
Drop a dash of bitters on top of the egg-white foam.

Be sure to tag @mojoactiveadventures if you decide to try the famous Morocco dish or refreshing Chile cocktail from your home!

March 13 2023

Just Back From Chile

Musings

Unlock the magic and see what Chile has in store for you!

Known for one of the longest coastlines in the world and amazing food, Chile has unlimited potential waiting to be unlocked. “Chile checks all the boxes for the ultimate bucket list adventure. Breathtaking scenery, endless adventure opportunities, great culture and mouthwatering cuisine,” says Molly Mathis, CEO and Chief Experience Creator of MOJO Adventures.

Molly recently traveled to Chile as part of an exclusive, hosted group of key luxury travel professionals. “We are constantly working to bring you new and unique destinations and experiences.”

However, similar to Morocco and Cuba, it’s a locale we don’t recommend winging on your own. “Chile is a lot larger in scale than most people think and requires intricate, advanced planning to see all the country has to offer. Since roads aren’t super developed, it’s critical you coordinate specific flight transfers and timing.”

An adventure in Chile brings endless adventure opportunities. Highlights include:

Heli-hiking the Andes mountains
Fly fishing on a world-class river, only steps from your private, luxury lodge
Enjoying local, chef-prepared meals (including an authentic aside dinner) featuring local ingredients

To truly experience Chile, we highly recommend working with a trusted travel professional to provide an authentic, off-the-beaten path experience.

Chile should be at the top of your travel bucket list if it isn’t already. If interested in learning more REACH OUT. And if you want to experience Chile’s national cocktail, the Pisco Sour, CLICK HERE or the recipe.

February 18 2023

Just Back From Morocco

Musings

Why Morocco needs to be on your list

Known for their tasty cuisine and the Sahara Desert, Morocco is one of the most underrated places to travel. “Morocco is the perfect blend of adventure, culture, history and food,” says Molly Mathis, CEO and Chief Experience Creator of MOJO Adventures.

CULTURE

“I was blown away at how welcoming the culture is. Everyone was so friendly and anxious to learn English. However, between complex routing logistics, frequent border checks and a huge language barrier, it’s not the type of place you want to just show up and wing it. It’s essential you plan your adventure with an expert,” says Molly.

We recommend a dedicated driver and guide to accompany you throughout your stay. Our partners on the ground know how to make things magically happen and get you from point A to B both safely and seamlessly.

“By having a guide that literally knew everyone and everything about the area, (we even ran into his brother in a remote village along the way) we didn’t have to worry about anything”.

Morocco water seller in traditional dress

ADVENTURE

One of our many highlights was a visit to the Sahara Desert. It was a beautiful eight-hour drive with interesting stops along the way (thanks to our guide). The Sahara Dessert is exactly how you would picture it… sand dunes as far as you can see and camels. Some highlights from our adventure in the desert include:

Riding ATVs over the sand dunes
Riding camels during sunset
Staying in a luxury desert camp
Sandboarding down the dunes

CLICK HERE to view our adventure highlight reel.

ATV ride through the Sahara

HISTORY

“We traveled to three amazing cities in Morocco: Casablanca, Fes and Marrakech.”

When visiting Casablanca, you feel as if you are stepping back into time. “They have great French Colonial architecture dating back to the 1910s,” says Molly.

Fes is known for their tanneries where ancient techniques are used and souvenirs from here are special to bring home.

Marrakech is known for their breathtaking palaces and lively markets. We enjoyed the Djemal El Fan square where we looked through local Moroccan products.

Saddian Tombs - Marrakesh

FOOD

Moroccan cuisine is popular because of their unique take on spices and flavors and influence from locales like Spain, France and the Middle East. Our guide took us to his favorite local restaurants where we could taste the cuisine ourselves.

We also enjoyed a hands-on, private cooking class where we cooked a traditional Moroccan meal.

Exploring the lively market of Fez

February 18 2023

Why Cuba Is The Perfect Weekend Getaway

Musings

Havana is calling, and you’re in expert hands!

After a scouting trip to Cuba, I’m excited to share that it may just be THE new weekend getaway. With direct flights from many cities, a long weekend in Havana is the perfect way to accelerate your path to summer.

But, don’t go it alone! This is not the trip to show up and wing it. Navigating Visa applications and streamlining your trip from start to finish is what we do best. You can book an adventure here with confidence, have our partners on the ground meet you when you land, and live out an itinerary just like this one – knowing we’ve got your back.

CLICK HERE to view a sample itinerary of what a day in Havana could look like for you through MOJO.

February 17 2023

A Hidden Benefit: MOJO’s Flight Booking Service

Musings

Let us handle the stress so you can fly with peace of mind

Did you know that MOJO can book commercial and private flights for you? In the midst of flight cancellations, delays and lost baggage, there couldn’t be a better time to tell you about the benefits of using our service.

We partner with dedicated experts who book air travel for customers 24/7
24/7 emergency support anywhere in the world.
Insider knowledge you wouldn’t get otherwise
1. Our experts provide their recommendations for the best flight routes. With international flights, it can be tricky to navigate connections and layovers. They provide you the best routes, fares and airlines that match your preferences.
Real time flight monitoring
1. Our team uses advanced technology to monitor your flights and notify you of any changes. In case of a change, we reschedule to fit your schedule.
Up-to-date industry information
1. Our experts provide the best travel experience by recommending the best aircrafts and cabin configuration
Never wait on hold with customer service
1. We all know the horror of finding out your flight was cancelled and waiting on hold for hours. If you experience a flight delay or cancellation, an expert is working behind the scenes to solve the issue for you while you relax and enjoy your vacation.
Earn frequent flyer/award miles and choose your favorite airline
Receive the lowest published fares available
1. One-time $50/person booking fee that covers all services.

January 17 2023

2023: The year of bucket list travel

Musings

Be the first to know about EIGHT NEW MOJO Destinations

Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to travel more or trek to new countries? Then, 2023 is your year!

Our team is personally scouting eight new destinations for you to explore in 2023. This means that you can get more curated experiences to new places, peppered with surprise ‘MOJO Moments.’

1. MARRAKECH, MOROCCO

Known for its spice-filled souks and museums, you can experience the culture of Africa – customized for you! The city is divided into two parts: The Medina and Ville Nouvelle, offering something for everyone.

The Medina quarter is full of vendors carrying everything from old world rugs to modern appliances. The Ville Nouvelle has modern restaurants and big brand stores for a contemporary vibe.

2. PHUKET, THAILAND

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and a piece of paradise in the Andaman Sea. Phuket offers picturesque long, white-sand beaches with palm trees that seems too good to be true. This is the perfect destination to relax on the beach, enjoy local cuisine and scuba dive in the crystal-clear water.

3. MALLORCA, SPAIN

Besides having beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, Mallorca offers unique adventures for thrill seekers. Your adventure can include exploring caves, hiking in the mountains and relaxing on world-renown beaches.

4. SANTORINI, GREECE

Out of 227 islands in Greece, Santorini is the one that stands out. Home to villages with sapphire-domed homes and outdoor restaurants, who wouldn’t want to explore this one-of-a-kind island? Among the highlights are breathtaking sunsets with a glass of local Santorini wine in hand.

5. PARIS, FRANCE

There is only one true City of Light. Paris offers the most iconography where you can see the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Musée du Louvre. Paris offers an array of experiences from world-class art museums, Michelin-starred restaurants, designer boutiques, historical architecture and breathtaking gardens.

6. GALAPAGOS ISLANDS, ECUADOR

The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago of 19 isolated volcanic islands and each island has its own unique ecosystem and species. On each island, you can see different marine life from the flamboyant flamingos of Floriana to the playful sea lions on Espanola.

7. ISLAND OF HAWAII, UNITED STATES

Known as the biggest island in the United States, Hawaii has eight different climate zones, five volcanos and three different colored sanded beaches. Under the water, you can spot colorful reefs and manta rays. On shore, you can experience farm-to-table dishes and vibrant farmers markets.

8. PATAGONIA, CHILE

Go off the grid in a memorable way. Epic adventures here can include heli-hiking, whitewater rafting, fishing and skiing complete with world-class food and wine-in-hand.

: Experience the magic of Thailand

: Go off the beaten path in a memorable way in Patagonia, Chile

: Galapagos -- home to more unique species in the world

: Skip the lines during a privately-guided tour of the Eiffel Tower

This is the year for new adventures and we’re excited to unlock new destinations for you, making your travel calendar the envy of all.

If you’re interested in any of these new destinations, please give us a shout.

January 16 2023

Is your passport expiring soon?

Musings

Here’s how to renew your passport painlessly with these pro tips!

Are you planning on traveling internationally and your passport is set to expire? Last-minute passport renewals are possible if you know what to do!

Double check your passport’s expiration date before any international travel. A large majority of countries require your passport to be valid at least 6 months before the date of travel. If your passport is set to expire in 2023, renew it sooner rather than later.
Some exciting news! The US Passport Agency’s post-Covid log-jam has eased but regular processing time can still take 6-9 weeks.
Visit THIS LINK to see if your passport is eligible to be renewed by mail. Main requirements to be eligible: passport must be undamaged, issued when you were 16+, issued within the last 15 years and issued in your current name.
If you do not meet the main requirements to renew online/mail, visit THIS SITE . This shows you how to apply in person using Form DS11.
If you need your passport expedited, there is an option for an additional fee (around $60). The expedited processing times are typically 3-5 weeks.
If you are travelling internationally within 14 days (or 28 days with a Travel Visa), you can provide proof-of-travel (international flight receipt) and are eligible to apply in-person for passport renewal. To locate your nearest passport agency and make an appointment contact 1-877-487-2778. Through this route, passport renewals can be processed in as little as 1-2 business days.
Lastly, third-party services such as CIBT VISAS can also help with expediting passports and travel visas prior to travel. Fees range from $150+ for expedited services

January 16 2023

Everything You Need To Know Before Traveling to Cuba

Musings

Working with an expert can unlock the magic of Cuba. Come along on our recent scouting adventure.

Cuba is famously known for its cigars, salsa dancing and delicious rum, but to safely enjoy the history and unique experiences the island nation has to offer, we recommend working with an expert.

Cuba is a great example of a destination that requires careful planning because there are limited ways to visit Cuba as a US citizen. “By working with the right partner, we can get you there under the ‘Support For The Cuban People’ visa which requires the right paperwork and know-how,” says Molly Mathis, CEO and Chief Experience Creator of MOJO Adventures.

Traveling across borders can be stressful and confusing especially when you aren’t familiar with the area. “We arrange for a personal, VIP representative to meet you at the gate and whisk you through customs without having to wait in line and negotiate potential immigration complications. This helps take the stress off your shoulders from the get-go upon landing,” says Molly.

In addition to navigating the travel visa and paperwork, a trusted partner provides peace of mind. “When we customize your Cuban adventure, we connect you to true local experts who unlock special insider access to activities and programs you wouldn’t otherwise be able to experience.”

We pride ourselves in giving clients authentic insight into the destination’s culture and history. Here are some highlights from our recent scouting trip to Cuba, with adventures making us feel like we were transported back in time.

Private Rum Tasting and Cigar Pairing Workshop with the Head Sommelier of Havana Club Rum
1. 1. We learned about the rum production in Cuba and paired different spirits with top-shelf cigars.
Private salsa lessons at one the oldest salsa schools in the Americas.
Professional photo shoot with classic convertible cars. Cuba is basically a living museum for classic cars. We felt like we were transported back in time being chased by paparazzi on this memorable afternoon. Most importantly, the scenery on our drive was breathtaking!

“This is not a typical destination where you want to show up and wing it. A guided expert and personal driver helped us truly unlock the magic of Cuba safely,” says Molly.

All-in-all, Cuba is a cultural destination not to miss, if you plan it right!

Pro Tip: Houston, Miami and New York all have direct flights to Cuba making it an easy weekend trip!

Travel back in time in a vintage convertible

Touring the oldest cigar factory in Havana

Custom cigar and rum pairing

Learn the art of salsa dancing

Rooftop views of Havana

December 20 2022

Top Destinations MOJO Travelers Trekked To This Year

Musings

We planned heaps of adventures in 2022, but these destinations proved to be most popular. Could one be on your bucket list?

When it comes to the adventure of your dreams, it’s important to have unique experiences to compliment any destination. MOJO works with vetted, experienced vendors to provide authentic adventures without lines or crowds. Here are four examples showing we can add value to any location!

3. ICELAND AND FRENCH ALPS

We couldn’t decide between these two epic destinations — so it’s a tie!

Iceland is the Land of Fire and Ice and offers amazing outdoor activities with an even better landscape. Your trip to Iceland can include:

Riding ATVs on a black sand beach
Trekking across the largest glacier in Europe
Snorkeling between two continents (The only place in the WORLD you can do this!)

To learn more about how Iceland is the perfect destination for you, please CLICK HERE.

The French Alps hold amazing adventure opportunities with a breathtaking backdrop. CLICK HERE to learn more information or explore the French Alps with us HERE.

Some opportunities in the French Alps include:

Relaxing in a private, luxury chalet nestled in a small village in the French Alps
Hiking the alpine trails in France and enjoying wine and pasta lunch in a nearby village
Biking to an authentic French farmhouse for a chef-prepared dinner

2. GREECE

With crystal blue water and enriching culture, Greece takes our second place. Two couples traveled throughout Greece the MOJO way and had experiences at every turn, including flying to Crete in a private helicopter. Check out OUR RECENT FEATURE to hear more about their trip and why they chose to work with MOJO.

Some favorite moments from their trip included:

Island hopping with luxury accommodations along the way (including a private day yacht charter)
Trying local foods on a “Taste of Athens” food tour
Cooking an authentic meal in a Cretan home

1. ITALY

Our first place goes to a destination full of stunning views, freshly made cuisine and rich history… Italy! The Warren family took advantage of Italy’s amazing food and enriching culture with a packed 16-day adventure.

To read more about the Warren’s adventure including their opinion on the best time to travel, CLICK HERE.

Some highlights from their trip include: