Luxury Travel Destinations

Hire an exclusive holiday villa just south of Barcelona: Almiral de la Font

Tom — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 11:35:12 +0000

Almiral de la Font: luxury villa in Barcelona

Almiral de la Font is a luxuriously restored masia just south of Barcelona. Staying at Almiral is a unique experience: renovated with great care and attention to detail, this beautiful ‘masia’ (Catalan manor house), offers high-tech modern comforts whilst retaining the historic charm and character of the original building.

Set high on a hillside in the Penedes wine region, the masia is surrounded by the Garraf National Park and offers dramatic sea or mountain views from every room or terrace.

This tranquil haven has more than 300 acres of private grounds with vineyards, olive groves and fruit trees, yet is only a 30 minute drive from Barcelona and 10 minutes from the lively beach resort of Sitges.

Admiral de la Font is ideal for families and corporate groups, and for occasions such as weddings, filming and production launches.

Location
The masia is located just two kilometres from the traditional town of Sant Pere De Ribes. The well-known seaside town of Sitges is 6 kilometres away and Barcelona is only a 30-minute drive. Barcelona airport is 25 minutes away and Tarragona (Salou) airport is one hour away.

Also in Penedes wine region and its capital, Vilafranca, is just a 15 minute drive. The town of Tarragona and theme park Port Aventura are each a 45 minute drive.

BOOKING & INFORMATION:

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Italian Alps Travel: a truly comfortable holiday on the sunny side of the Alps – South Tyrol

Tom — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 19:58:00 +0000

Italian Alps Travel: a truly comfortable journey on the sunny side of the Alps

If you are interested in visiting beautiful places, South Tyrol is one not to miss. Located in the north of Italy in a characteristic area known as the Dolomites.

Because of its fortunate position on the south side of the Alps, you can enjoy 300 days of sunshine a year.

Here traditional life found its way into modern civillisation. Furtile soil together with a wise sense of cultivation creates an autonome environment. All that surrounded by magnificent nature and fresh mountain air. South Tyrol is internationally known for its wine, fruit and other natural products of high quality.

What Italian Alps Travel offers

The opportunity to experience the stimulating freshness of the Alps, while staying in one of the luxury hotels with wellness center & spa treatments.

The view from your suite will be marvellous, the magnificent mountains will take your breath away.

During the twelve-day visit, professional guides can accompany you on several excursions, including wine-tasting or enjoying nature from a horse-driven sled. You will be taken care for 24 hours a day to make sure that your visit to the sunny side of the Alps is a truly memorable one.

BOOKING & INFORMATION:

For a more detailed program and bookings please visit the website: www.italianalpstravel.com

You can reach Italian Alps Travel also by phone: +31654901531

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New Presidential Suites at Luxury Riviera Maya beachfront Resort in Mexico

Tom — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 08:40:24 +0000

New Presidential Suites at Luxury Riviera Maya Resort

With the opening of six new Presidential Suites, the Grand Velas All Suites & SPA Resort Riviera Maya in Playa del Carmen cements its reputation as being the all-inclusive resort like no other. The eagerly anticipated suites are a minimum of 2400 square feet – excluding spacious private terraces -with plunge pools, exotic woods and marble, dramatic jungle and ocean views, and a private full-service staff to exclusively attend to Suite guests’ needs.

While each Grand Velas Presidential Suite has its own particular ambiance, art and decoration — depending on whether it is located in the Master, Ambassador or Ambassador Grand Class wings of the resort — all offer the kind of services and amenities not often found in an all-inclusive setting.

Among standout Presidential Suite features are one 50-minute massage per person per day in the Suite’s own massage area; private butler, maid and pool butler service; enormous bathrooms with one and even two separate showers and Jacuzzi tubs; VIP transportation to and from the airport, and some feature open-air showers in a private garden.

In addition, Presidential Suites have dining rooms with marble tables, fully stocked bars/mini-bars, Nespresso coffee machines and multiple 42-inch plasma televisions.

Handpainted abstract frescoes

Designed for drama by Mexican architect Ernesto Vela, all Presidential Suites are furnished in contemporary classic decor, with special attention to rich fabrics, textiles and art:

here, handpainted abstract frescoes, multi-colored marble inlays, and warm mahogany paneling … there, hand-loomed textiles inspired by nature motifs, sculptures and bibelots from all over the globe for the finishing touch. The soaring double-height ceilings, and windows framing ocean and jungle vistas all create a peaceful, serene sense of luxury rooted in nature.

An all-inclusive unlike any other, the Grand Velas Riviera Maya is three hotels in one: the Master Wing in the jungle and with six zen-like pools lit with changing colors at night, the beachfront Ambassador Wing popular with families, and the ultra-exclusive, adults-only Ambassador Grand Class beachfront wing, favored by celebrities. Rate for the Presidential Suites is $5,400 USD per night.

BOOKING & INFORMATION:

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An exclusive New Year’s Eve party package: enjoy in ‘première’ the first sun-rise of 2010 over Antarctica

Tom — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 05:07:55 +0000

Scenic flights over Antarctica: be the first to see the sun in 2010

Antarctica…the world’s “last great wilderness”…What would you think of a flight aboard a state-of-the-art Airbus A380 or a 747-400 aircraft for a sightseeing flight over Antarctica? The flights we are referring to leave from Australia.

This may be a great idea: if you participate in the New Year’s Eve Midnight Sun Party Flight, you will be the first to see the sun in 2010– it is daylight at 12.01am.

A live jazz band will create the right atmosphere on board. Cost of the tickets in first class is $6299 and in business class deluxe $5499.

And your onboard experience is enhanced by a panel of experts, including world accredited Antarctic scientists, glaciologists, explorers, adventurers & mountaineers.

Antarctic tourism
While commercial Antarctic tourism dates back to the late 1960s, there has been rapid growth since the late 1980s. This has led to a wide range of tourist and adventure activities. Of course, the debate over the merits of Antarctic tourism echoes debates over other wilderness regions.

Tourism has allowed many people who might not otherwise have the opportunity, to experience the wonders, and understand the importance of Antarctica. Their experiences have led to a greater recognition of the region’s importance to the world.

LUXURY TRAVEL BUTLER agrees with Lars-Eric Lindblad, leader of the first commercial Antarctica cruise in 1966, who said: “You can’t protect what you don’t know.”

BOOKING & INFORMATION:

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Time for Swiss luxury: Hotel Guarda Golf – Switzerland

Tom — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 10:00:52 +0000

Time for Swiss luxury: Hotel Guarda Golf

This October the new five-star deluxe ‘Hotel Guarda Golf’ will open its splendid doors in Crans Montana. As the region’s first all year round five-star hotel it is situated in the heart of Crans, right by the golf course amidst nature and the majestic alpine landscape of the Valais, prepared to offer any possible amenities to their guests.

This new and innovative five star hotel, fashioned in a modern yet characteristic alpine style, reveals a unique concept and philosophy.

The Hotel Guarda Golf is adjacent to the golf course and counts twenty-five rooms and suites – outfitted exclusively with natural materials –, two gourmet restaurants, a lounge and the first spa in Switzerland offering products and treatments of the Brazilian cult label Ivo Pitanguy.

The owners and directors of Hotel Guarda Golf made their vision of a luxurious oasis of relaxation and comfort come true. Priority is attributed to providing special care to the guests, being discrete and efficient at the same time 24 hours a day.

Golf, cross-country ski and spa
Hotel guests and day visitors alike are welcome to enjoy the unique mix of leisureliness and active experience: the “Jack Nicklaus” 9-hole golf course situated right in front of the hotel and the adjacent 18-hole golf course designed by former world champion Severiano Ballesteros lure golfers in summer and cross-country skiers in winter.

The gorgeous Guarda Golf SPA sets new dimensions to recreation: 600 square meters are home to an extensive wellness area carved in stone and featuring an indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, Hammam and four treatment rooms.

This is the only spa in Switzerland offering exclusive products and treatments of the Brazilian cult label Beauty by Clinica Ivo Pitanguy.

Gourmet restaurants in the Alps
The hotel’s three restaurants use selected products to produce fresh culinary specialties, distinguished yet never pretentious.

At Ristorante Giardino one can relish elegant Italian cuisine, while the Restaurant les Alpes suggests authentic, regional specialties in a cosy atmosphere.

In the Guarda Golf Lounge one may enjoy a light lunch and in the evening a casual dinner or cocktails around the fireplace.

Unrivalled location, harmony and stylistical confidence of rooms and spa, unlimited appreciation for culinary pleasures as well as vast guest services: all attributes which make the Hotel Guarda Golf so lively and incomparable.

BOOKING & INFORMATION:

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Our luxury travel tip to Brazil: Brazilian luxury at Casa Turquesa

Tom — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 07:17:29 +0000

Brazilian luxury: Casa Turquesa

Located by the pier in the historic centre of Paraty in Brazil, Casa Turquesa recreates the façade of an old XVIIIth century town house, which had been destroyed in a fire thirty years ago. Restoration was done with the utmost care and consideration for the original colonial architecture, with a view to offering the very best to its guests

Casa Turquesa has nine comfortable and cozy rooms available, with views of the Paraty scenery from its windows and terraces.

The bay, the renowned rooftops, the mountains and the dome of Santa Rita Church – the oldest religious building in our town – combine to make up the scenery surrounding the Inn.

Experience
The hotel offers many experiences, including a tour to the Algodão Islands on board a restored fishing boat, deep-sea diving, a visit the historic centre of Paraty, exploring the hippie-style village Trindade (surrounded by beautiful beaches!), swimming around the waterfalls, etc.

Let us add one more inside tip: pay a visit to “Le Gite in Indaiatuba”, a superb restaurant. A truly amazing place that offers the most incredible food. And be sure to go in a bathing suit and take a dip in the waterfall or in the sea…

BOOKING & INFORMATION:

Brazil travel package: Cruising by rail – The Great Brazil Express

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Surprisingly different: Alila Manggis in Bali, a luxury seaside resort

Tom — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 06:59:40 +0000

Surprisingly different: Alila Manggis in Bali

One of Bali’s best kept secrets, Alila Manggis is a secluded, stylish seaside resort in Manggis, East Bali. Set amidst a coconut grove, the resort nestles between the sea and the majestic Mount Agung, Bali’s most sacred mountain. All rooms and suites face the ocean with clear views across the straits to Nusa Penida.

A contemporary interpretation of traditional Balinese architecture is artfully combined with modern amenities to create a relaxed environment in harmony with its natural surroundings. Famed for featuring east Balinese food and its dive sites.

Dive islands and palaces
Alila Manggis, just 1 hour and 15 minutes drive from the international airport at Denpasar, is situated within the regency of Karangasem, close to the village of Candi Dasa, and provides the perfect base from which to explore unspoiled east Bali. This area of the island is renowned for its spectacular beauty, where the steep rise from coast to mountain creates magical scenery. It is also the gateway to the dive islands of the East Coast, the mother temple of Besakih and the great water palaces and kingdoms of east Bali.

The hotel has its own leisure concierge where guests can enjoy various lifestyle activities.

Views across the coconut grove
The 53 rooms and two corner suites of Alila Manggis are housed in traditional two-storey thatched Balinese pavillions reminiscent of the village wantilan or meeting hall. The superior rooms, located on the lower floor of each block, boast a private terrace while the deluxe rooms on the upper level have a balcony with day bed. All rooms are designed to maximize the views across the coconut grove, the swimming pool and the sea.

The two spacious suites are situated on the upper level of the building closest to the sea. Large balconies surround the suites and serve as an outdoor dining area or sundeck. The spacious suites include a living and dining area. The bathroom includes a bathtub, separate shower and dressing room.

The name Alila comes from Sanskrit meaning ’surprise’, which truly describes the hotel.

Authentic luxury: trekkings in Bali
Two- to six-hour treks are available at the Alila Manggis, together with a local guide. Trips include a trek to Gumang Hill for stunning views of verdant rice terraces and Mount Agung; Kastala to Tenganan, a trek off the beaten track through rice terraces and small farms to the Bali Aga village of Tenganan, famous for its double ikat weaving and unique basket-making and the Mount Agung trek for the truly adventurous, a four-hour climb reaching the top in time for sunrise.

But there are also other options: you could do a mountain bik tour through the spectacular scenery and village and learn all about the local cuisine at the Alila Manggis cooking school, which is one of Bali’s most renowned cooking schools specialising in East Balinese cuisine.

The name Alila comes from Sanskrit meaning ’surprise’ which suitably describes the refreshing character of the property and the reaction of the guests upon arrival and throughout their stay at this unique hotel.

BOOKING & INFORMATION:

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Enjoy an exclusive guided tour and explore the treasures of the Vatican Museums and Rome

Tom — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 07:44:41 +0000

Explore the treasures of the Vatican Museums and Rome

“Driver in Italy” (www.driverinitaly.com) is the most efficient, professional and personal private driver service for your holidays in Italy. They can take you for a shopping tour to Milan, an excursion through the rustic countryside of Umbria and Tuscany, to works of art by Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci in Firenze, to charming Siena, Perugia, Sicily and many more Italian destinations. Let us give you a tast of Rome and the Vatican Museums…

Rome…the Eternal City…Imagine this: you will glimpse the bygone glories of ancient Rome on a full-day excursion by air-conditioned vehicle. After disembarking the ship, you will proceed along the ‘autostrada’ for approximately one and a half hours to Rome and the Vatican City.

Driving into the historical center of Rome, you will pass by and admire the Pyramid of Caius Cestius, the ruins of Caracalla Baths, the Capitol and Piazza Venezia, the city’s center square. The Colosseum dates back to 80 AD and is perhaps the grandest and most famous of the city’s monuments.

Tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain
In centuries past, some 50.000 spectators sat here spellbound as gladiators locked in combat and wild beasts were slain. The horror and fascination of it all springs to life as you explore these primeval ruins. You will pause at a vantage point overlooking the Forum where numerous foundations, columns and arches have survived the religious, civil and commercial hub of imperial Rome.

Continue your tour by tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain famous in the movie “A Roman Holiday”. Then drive by the Spanish Steps, Pantheon and Piazza Navona designed by Bernini.

Religious and artistic highlights abound during your walk through the Vatican. Gaze in awe at the symmetry of the Piazza San Pietro and the enormity of St. Peters, the worlds largest church. Then time permitting, enter the Sistine Chapel and marvel at Michelangelos awe-inspiring painted ceiling.

Michelangelo and Bernini
If you want to get more of the Vatican, take a tour of the Vatican Museums. Just take into account that you could easily fill another 4 hours with this tour.

The Vatican Museums are one of the world’s most distinguished cultural institutions with wide galleries of awe-inspiring paintings, sculptures and art collections.

A tour through the museum includes the Candelabra Gallery and the Sistine Chapel adorned with Michelangelo’s famed masterpieces.

You can make a stroll through the Tapestry Gallery, Bernini’s Royal Staircase and the Gallery of Maps and contemplate the breathtaking frescoes within the Rooms of Raffaello, as well as numerous masterpieces and magnificent art collections, all housed in the most spectacular of settings.

Italy is one of the most exciting travel destinations in the world and an ideal place for deluxe and out-of-the ordinary experiences. If you want to taste the destination, just get in touch with us and fill out the form below.

BOOKING & INFORMATION:
www.driverinitaly.com

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Special two nights offer in 5-star design hotel in Vienna

Tom — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 08:45:45 +0000

Special two nights offer in design hotel in Vienna

We invite you to visit and stay at The Ring, Vienna’s Casual Luxury Hotel. This 5-star property offers its guests exceptional comfort and casual luxury in every detail.

With the world class culture, art, shopping and financial districts on its doorsteps, this address is one of the most prestigious in Vienna.

You will enjoy wonderful views on the famous ‘Ringstrasse’ as well as the Vienna State Opera.

The luxurious guestrooms and suites at The Ring, Vienna’s Casual Luxury Hotel are atmospheric spaces. They feature an inspiring mix of contemporary and classical furniture complemented by an innovative light concept.

Special offer

2 nights accommodation in a luxurious “Special” room
“The Ring Breakfast” at “at eight” restaurant
a recreational full body massage for each person in “The Ring Day Spa” (sports massage on request)
an exclusive and extraordinary 3-course menu at “at eight” restaurant
Vodka-cocktail of your choice as digestive in the sensational “Drings” bar

Rate:
419 euro per person in a double room (199 euro single surcharge)

Aroma international
The fabulous restaurant “at eight” located on the ground floor of The Ring, Vienna’s Casual Luxury Hotel is here to pamper your senses. Try aroma international, fresh cuisine at its best! “at eight” is dedicated to offer excellent food and perfectly match this with a drink that suits your taste or does challenge your curiosity in the unique bar called “Drings”, famous for its excellent and extra-ordinary vodka cocktails.

The Ring Day Spa
Detour from the everyday at the The Ring Day Spa on the 7th floor of the hotel with an integrated Health Club, a steam bath, a sauna with view over the historical city of Vienna and a treatment room for massages and facial treatments.

BOOKING & INFORMATION:

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Special offer from Kasbah Tamadot, a deluxe boutique hotel in Marrakech

Tom — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 07:48:39 +0000

Special offer from Kasbah Tamadot in Marrakech

Less than one hour from Marrakech, Sir Richard Branson’s Kasbah Tamadot lies in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and has truly spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks.

A stunning ancient fort steeped in history, it has been transformed into an ultra luxurious boutique hotel while retaining all of the charm and character of the original structure.

Deluxe package proposal

Free night offer: clients can enjoy one free night, when staying 4 nights or more at Kasbah Tamadot

Kids go free: families can save EUR100 per night when a child stays with their parent’s in a Superior or Deluxe Suite. Children under six years old also dine free of charge throughout their stay. Valid until 31st August and from 16th October -1st November 2009.

A fairytale complex
This Kasbah is a fairytale complex of courtyards, intricately carved walls, staircases and terraced gardens. From reception an original staircase leads up to a traditional Moroccan painted courtyard that surrounds a deep blue reflecting pool on the first floor. Opening from here are a series of bedrooms, a library and Kanoun restaurant.

The restaurant, a striking mixture of modern and old, offers delicious local and international cuisine courtesy of an inspired and passionate chef. A dining terrace has wonderful views of the gardens while a secret stairway leads to a roof terrace strewn with cushions and tents that must surely be one of the most romantic places in the world for a sundowner.

Luxury Berber Tented Suites
The rooms and suites marry traditional Moroccan design with a sophisticated contemporary twist. Each is individually designed and filled with an eclectic mix of antiques, collected from around the world. Carved wooden ceilings and atmospheric tiled bathrooms compliment magnificent panoramas of the surrounding mountainous landscapes.

Those who long for total privacy will love the master suite which has three fabulous bedrooms, one with a private plunge pool and is a mini version of the Kasbah which sits majestically on a promontory a short distance from the main hotel.

For a truly romantic experience the luxury Berber Tented Suites, offer panoramic views over the valley and mountains. Each suite’s terrace comes complete with a plunge pool and a sunbathing and dining area.

Asounfou Spa
For indulgence and relaxation, the Asounfou Spa offers a wide range of relaxation treatments as well as a sauna, a traditional hammam and a dramatic dark blue tiled indoor pool. For those whose idea of bliss is somewhat more active, there is a gym with the welcome distraction of fantastic mountain views.

The terrace, surrounded by Greek columns, leads to the pool bar, the outdoor infinity pool with unbelievable views and a path which leads to tennis courts.

With scenic expeditions to Berber villages, local markets and mule riding adventures, there is as much or as little to do at this wonderful hotel as one could possibly wish for.

BOOKING & INFORMATION:

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Luxury Travel Destinations

Hire an exclusive holiday villa just south of Barcelona: Almiral de la Font

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