Luxury Holidays Direct Blog

Summer Getaway Exclusive at Constance Unique Resorts

shamira — Thu, 23 May 2013 16:41:33 +0000

The luxurious Constance portfolio includes a group of 7 luxury hotels and resorts, each beautifully designed with its own individual character offering 5* comfort and escape in stunning island locations. Discover one Constance’s unique resorts in Mauritius, the Seychelles, the Maldives or Madagascar this summer and receive a complimentary signature massage plus either an a la carte dinner or credit for a diving excursion, depending on the resort you book. These are the four stunning locations you can choose from:- Constance Belle Mare Plage Mauritius Constance Belle Mare Plage in Mauritius offers an endless white sand beach and two championship golf courses on the stunning Indian Ocean. Enjoy choices from 7 restaurants, offering everything from fine dining experiences to laid-back meals on the beach. Relax and unwind at the Spa de Constance and where you’ll be pampered with the latest treatments and massages and laze around the beautiful infinity pool or on the magnificent beach. Constance Ephélia Seychelles The beautiful, family-friendly Constance Ephélia Seychelles provides a slice of paradise with its stunning setting, exquisite cuisine and a luxurious welcoming spa. Set on two of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Mahé and overlooking the marine [...]

Idyllic Antigua

shamira — Wed, 22 May 2013 16:42:43 +0000

A captivating island boasting some of the Caribbean’s most idyllic beaches and year-round sunshine, Antigua is ideal for tropical relaxation or exploration. The island has 365 exquisite beaches promising a beach for every day of the year and is surrounded by a nearly unbroken offshore reef and turquoise sea that provides world class sailing. Miles of sugar-white sands, hidden coves and incredibly clear waters reveal fascinating marine life and coral covered shipwrecks, whilst the evocative Nelson’s Dockyard offers a glimpse of the island’s heritage. Enjoy this picture-perfect paradise at one of these Antiguan resorts:- Galley Bay Resort is an intimate hideaway which delights guests with its refined, unpretentious atmosphere. Nestled in 40 acres of tropical gardens spread beside a magnificent secluded beach, Galley Bay is a charming Antiguan hideaway. Its saltwater lagoon, complimentary non-motorised water sports and fantastic facilities guarantee an unforgettable holiday. In a restaurant that overlooks the ocean, couples can enjoy romantic candle-lit dinners. A stay at Galley Bay is dreams come true. Or enjoy a stay at the luxurious Curtain Bluff, which is consistently ranked among the finest resorts in the world and is great for food and the famous Caribbean hospitality. Flanked by water on both [...]

A Thailand experience for food lovers

shamira — Wed, 15 May 2013 16:01:19 +0000

Explore one of the world’s favourite cuisines by exploring two of Thailand’s distinctive culinary regions, Koh Samui and Chang Mai. An experience like no other, discover each region’s distinct and flavoursome specialities and sampling some of the best street food in the world. This kind of experience would gives you the opportunity to explore some of the highlights of these two beautiful regions. The national cuisine of Thailand blends elements of several Southeast Asian traditions, placing an emphasis on lightly prepared dishes that are aromatic and fragrant. Balance, detail and variety are of great significance to Thai chefs. Thai food is known for its balance of three to four fundamental taste senses in each dish or the overall meal: sour, sweet, salty, and bitter. Whilst a subtle mix of ingredients such as lemongrass, chilli, garlic and fish sauce is central to all Thai food, the cuisine does vary from region to region. As might be expected in the south, seafood is a key ingredient; northern food is influenced by Burmese cuisine. The holiday provides a great opportunity to sample and learn about the food on offer in this beautiful country; taking you from sprawling markets, street stands, huge food courts, [...]

La Maison Arabe in Marrakech, a luxurious Moroccan escape.

shamira — Wed, 15 May 2013 14:54:05 +0000

Vibrant and charismatic; Marrakech is a city that oozes allure. From its bustling markets, ancient buildings and mesmerizing souks, Marrakesh is a treat for all the senses and a total escape from everyday life. A luxury break in Marrakech allows you to experience the day to day buzz of this wonderfully chaotic city. Upon arrival, travel by minibus to Marrakech’s medina, alighting at a dark alleyway which leads you to a great studded wooden door set into the wall – and into an Arabian Nights’ vision. Water trickles from a marble fountain in a perfect courtyard filled with lemon trees and grand terracotta pots; soft light from shimmering brass lanterns glows on alcoves filled with oriental carpets cushions and antique furniture. This city oasis is La Maison Arabe, a classic Moroccan riad in the heart of the bustling medina. It is one of Marrakech’s first riads and is a beautiful palace full of enchanting alcoves, stairways and passages. It is the perfect place to relax after a day exploring the city, a private oasis to which you can retreat to every day from the heat and hurly burly of Marrakesh to sip a mint tea high up on your own [...]

Heavenly Spa Breaks at Banyan Tree

shamira — Tue, 07 May 2013 16:41:31 +0000

A stay at a Banyan Tree hotel is a haven of relaxation like no other, offering rest and relaxation to travellers across the globe. Throughout history the banyan tree has provided shade and shelter to weary travellers and all of the Banyan Tree hotels embody this, providing the relief and comfort that being surrounded by nature brings. A leading international operator in the spa industry, Banyan Tree offers a signature blend of romance and travel with a green conscience. The philosophy behind every Banyan Tree resort is based on rejuvenation of the body, mind and soul – a sanctuary for the senses. Take care of your soul, uplift your spirits and soothe your mind at Banyan Tree. Succumb to the workings of timeless techniques steeped in Asian traditions dating centuries back. Banyan Tree Spa Phuket The internationally acclaimed Banyan Tree Spa in Phuket opened in 1994 as the pioneer of the tropical garden spa concept. Offering exquisite Eastern therapies with an emphasis on the holistic, the first Banyan Tree Spa set the standard for providing guests with complete spiritual, mental and physical harmony. As the first luxury oriental spa in Asia, it reintroduced an exotic blend of ancient health and [...]

Revitalise your Senses at Niyama in the Maldives

shamira — Tue, 07 May 2013 16:26:12 +0000

Vibrant, contemporary and stylish, the visionary Niyama resort balances the Maldives’ idyllic tranquil beauty with a sense of fun. Set on an idyllic island in the South-Western atoll of Dhallu, this unique resort is home to the offshore ‘floating’ restaurant and the world’s first underwater night club. Niyama was named “Best New Sensation” at the Tatler Travel Awards 2013, a prestigious award only given to properties that feature something inspiring and new to the world of travel. Before arriving on the island, book yourself in at the contemporary Lime Spa which offers heavenly treatments both day and night. Relax amid a lime tree garden whilst enjoying signature treatments that capture the essence of the Maldives. Indulge in a heavenly body scrub followed by the ‘Niyama Recovery’ to relax and revitalise your senses. The innovative treatments, dare you to try something new. Through aromatherapy, phototherapy and marine therapy, the Lime Spa takes its inspiration from the elements of earth and sea. In May, an in-house aromatherapist will join the expert team at the Lime Spa. Alli Sim of aromatherapy atelier, Mmerci Encore will be taking up exclusive residence at Niyama and will be immersing guests in her artisanal preparations of natural [...]

My trip to Morocco!

shamira — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 16:56:36 +0000

After the endless winter we just had in the UK this year, a last minute opportunity to get away from it all was very welcome. Morocco: another continent, another culture and, for sure, another climate. The Taj Palace near the red city of Marrakech is where I had the chance to start my trip. Two nights in this outstanding property will make you understands what is commonly called a Palace especially when it is a Palace from the Group Taj. This beautiful hotel in based just 15 minutes from Marrakech although it really seems to be far from all its noise and hype. This is a perfect environment to disconnect from everything and get back to yourself. With Jiva Spa products on their way, Taj Palace Marrakech will be a real retreat destination in itself. The Palace is not actually completely finished as only two riads out of four are currently used at the moment and the Spa is just waiting for the products Jiva to arrive. Although it is not finished, you would not be able to tell when you stay there. The greatness of this hotel is in its architecture but not only, the staff is absolutely lovely [...]

A family escape in the Maldives at One&Only Reethi Rah

shamira — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 12:52:05 +0000

‘Reethi Rah’ means beautiful island, and this island resort in the Maldives certainly lives up to its name. Situated on one of the largest islands in North Malé coral reef, this resort is a jewel among a thread of turquoise lagoons and white sand coves. This grand and sublimely luxurious resort sits amid nature’s tropical beauty. The natural splendour of the island coupled with the enriching variety of activities on offer, allows ample opportunity for families to play together, as well as for individual moments of calm. The One&Only signature KidsOnly programme and teen activities are complimentary and are carefully tailored to younger guests – providing children and teenagers with an exciting variety of activities. Under the expert care of fun and fully-certified staff, children can enjoy their own section of the resort with separate dining facilities, a clubhouse and a swimming pool. A pirate adventure awaits them, with a treasure hunt through the island’s lush greenery and afterwards head down to the beach for a game of volleyball or football. While the kids are having the time of their lives, you can indulge at the One&Only Spa which has steam rooms, saunas and a yoga pavilion. This luxurious island [...]

Bora Bora, The Exotic Collection

shamira — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:03:05 +0000

Bora Bora, the Pearl of the Pacific is often called the most beautiful island in the world, with its romantic mountain panorama and sublime resorts. Jagged green peaks cascade down to white sand beaches and shimmering blue lagoons. French Polynesia is host to some of the world’s finest hotels and resorts offering sumptuous indulgences including world class golfing and the most sublime spas, making it the perfect place to enjoy a honeymoon or romantic getaway. The essence of the South Pacific can be experienced fully on this beautiful island. Explore its magical waterfalls and relax on secluded beaches, take a dip in an azure lagoon and trek through tropical rainforest. Perhaps the most beautiful of the South Pacific islands with its romantic mountain panorama and exquisite lagoon. These three hotels provide a heavenly setting for a dream honeymoon in paradise:- Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort In the Marira Bay nestles Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort, a quintessential Bora Bora beach resort. This luxury hotel sits on a sparkling beach with lush grounds dotted by hibiscus flowers and tropical blossoms. There you can relax and meander through the tropical landscape and explore the riches of the island. A [...]

Indulgent luxury at Shangri-La, at Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

shamira — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:11:59 +0000

Oman, the land of Arabian nights, is one of the oldest civilisations on the Arabian Peninsula, a thrilling destination with a great climate and beautiful beaches lined with swaying date palms. A destination both exotic and mystical, from the vibrant citrus groves and the traditional reed houses to the majestic, white desert forts, Oman is a beauty to behold. The Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa is one of the Arabian Peninsula’s most exceptional hotels, an ‘all in one’ resort, offering an unequalled trio of superb hotels designed and crafted to reflect the cultural and historical richness of Oman. An oasis of luxury the resort comprises of Al Waha, Al Bandar and Al Husn, all nestled against rugged mountains along the sparkling bay of Al Jissah. The Sea of Oman’s hypnotic turquoise blue waters contrast vividly with the majestic mountains that rise behind the resort, making for a stunning location. A tunnel through the mountains leads to the sanctuary of Al Waha, a serene oasis located on Al Jissah Bay. An ideal family choice with excellent facilities, Al Waha has traditional Arabian Dhofari architecture and surrounds a swimming pool shaded by green palms. Boasting an excellent choice of restaurants [...]