As Kim mentioned in her blog last week, GT‘s auction is in full swing. It’s time to take advantage of the best travel prizes the world has to offer. Not only will you be getting the great packages at exceptional values, but you will also be helping children through the Mentor Foundation — a definite win-win situation.

I currently find myself in southeast Asia, where many of our great auction items could  take you also. I flew through Incheon International Airport and saw many of the recent airport renovations — making an already superb transit hub even better. By adding updated shopping outlets, Korean culture workshops, stores and museums, the airport has turned into a great destination to visit while in transit.

I also transited in the new Asiana first- and business-class lounge, which offers Asiana and Star Alliance passengers a phenomenal space to rest and relax. Before heading south, I spent a few days in Seoul at the Ritz Carlton. The hotel was celebrating its 15th anniversary with a cocktail reception sponsored by Remy Martin. There was a featured cask on display that was valued at more than $20,000 per bottle. It was handled with white-glove service, and they raffled off a taste to a few lucky guests. I happened to be one of the lucky winners! I am not a cognac connoisseur, but I knew I was tasting something special. I also knew to savor it since I would have to pay $800 a glass if I ordered it at the bar. It was smooth going down. Something tells me it will be a long time before I am able to make a fair comparison with a such a rare bottle of Remy Martin.

Bottom line — take a look at the auction website, make a bid and see what global adventures await you!

— Alex Young, vice president and associate publisher