all the dish that’s fit to print
congrats! you are engaged, now what?
Is it just me or is everyone getting engaged? Perhaps you love birds took advantage of Valentine’s Day falling on a long weekend this year. Congratulations if you are one of the lucky few we have spotted around town recently betrothed. Now let the planning begin! To help, here are few suggestions of locales to have the perfect destination wedding.
CARIBBEAN
Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos
Getting married at a private island resort in the Caribbean is a fantastic kick-off to a new life. Parrot Cay offers two beachfront setting for wedding ceremonies – a boardwalk aisle that leads to an unspoiled beach, or the beachfront of a private villa available for rent. Parrot Cay also insists that stress need not be a part of the preparations; all weddings include the dedication of a planner to assist with all preparations, including reserving the dates, food and beverage details, music and entertainment, photography, and any other service requested. Parrot Cay can accommodate small, intimate weddings, or can be bought out for larger weddings (up to 120 guests).
Rosewood Mayakobá, Mexico
Weddings at Rosewood Mayakobá are all about choices – choose stunning outdoor venues like the white sand beach or the Plaza with views of the resort, lagoon, and tropical jungle. Three different restaurants are available to cater. Retreat to the privacy of a private plunge pool after the ceremony, or come down a day early with the wedding party and receive treatments at the resort’s spa, Sense, which is its own private island.
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happy new year (again) at uma ubud
Middle photo courtesy of balionstages.blogspot.com
2010 resolutions already abandoned? Start fresh and toast to another New Year with COMO Hotels and Resorts Uma Ubud in Bali. Celebrate Nyepi Day, the Balinese New Year and annual Day of Silence, by booking the resort’s special two-night package, March 15-17.
Arrive in Bali on the Day of the Dead Moon for a three-hour guided tour of Ubud and a taste of the New Year festivities: dancing, parades, and entertainment characteristic of the night before Nyepi Day (much like our New Year’s Eve!). Guests will find themselves immersed in the rich spirituality of Balinese culture through a host of Nyepi rituals and colorful processions of Ogoh-Ogoh, intricately crafted paper mâché models symbolizing evil spirits.
Make sure to satisfy your thirst for exploring on the Day of the Dead Moon. Uma Ubud asks guests to respect the Balinese traditions and remain on the grounds of the resort during the following Day of Silence, when villagers remain indoors, stores close, and lighting is kept to a soft mellow glow. This custom is meant to trick demons and bad spirits (the Ogoh-Ogoh) into abandoning the island, thereby establishing a healthier and happier start to the New Year.
Bask in the calm of the island through self-reflection and meditation with complimentary yoga classes or a relaxing 60-minute COMO Shambhala treatment. Guests will also enjoy a quiet, traditional Balinese Rijstaffel dinner (numerous side dishes served with rice) at the resort’s Kemiri restaurant. Package rates start from $780 based on two people sharing.
Other inclusions:
- Two-nights of accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- One three-course set lunch and dinner
- Return airport transfers
vacay the swiss way
Here’s something worth yodeling about: travelers can now extend their next Swiss vacation at no extra cost. Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love freebies?
For any three consecutive nights booked at La Réserve Geneva Hotel, guests will enjoy the third night FREE. Spend the extra evening relaxing in refined comfort on a soft velvet bedspread, or dining on seasonal Mediterranean dishes at the Le Loti restaurant. Rates start from CHF 900/night (about $857); offer is available for Executive and Deluxe Rooms and all Suites and includes access to all of the hotel facilities.
We all wish we could slow down Father Time. Well, at the Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa, it’s truly possible with a 30-hour day offering. For every 24 hours booked, with check-in at the guest’s convenience, six hours are added on as a gift. For example, a noon check-in is good until 6 p.m. the next day. And, multiple 24-hour days can add up! Arrive at noon on Friday with expected check out on Monday at noon – that’s three 24-hour days plus an extra 18 hours. So, one can stay an extra day and a half (until Tuesday at 6 p.m.) for nothing.
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tryst with a twist at met london
The sophisticated Metropolitan London presents a classic romance package – with a little spice. Book Rendez-Vous at the Met in time for Valentine’s Day, or any weekend that requires some sizzle.
For the chocoholic, the offering gets off to a sweet start with a tray of handmade bonbons waiting in the room upon arrival. Snuggle up together and select a complimentary film of your choice from the movie channel.
Later it is lights out, but not before taking a peek inside the “Seduction Bedside Box” for a selection of nighttime necessities: COMO Shambhala “Harmony” Massage Oils, a 20% discount off Coco de Mer goodies, a Luxury Suede and Silk Blindfold by Jimmy Jane, and other items.
Who doesn’t love lounging in bed all day? The Met ensures you will by providing a champagne breakfast for two the next day and extending the check-out time until 4 p.m. Cost is £329 for a City Room.
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a fashionista’s paradise at the metropolitan london
There’s nothing like a little retail therapy to brighten the gloom of these tough economic times. So, doctor’s orders, get glam and save big by booking the Tote-to-Toe at the Sales offering at the Metropolitan London and take advantage of the city’s bi-annual sales when some of London’s most popular retailers slash prices.
Guests will receive £50 in shopping vouchers for Selfridges. With top designer stores posted right at the Met’s doorstep, shopaholics can easily explore other London Town hot spots while strolling nearby Bond Street, Mayfair, Oxford Street, and Knightsbridge.
Post-shop-a-thon, one can always use a little pick-me-up, which is why the offering includes a complimentary COMO Shambhala Aromatherapy Gift Set, a bottle of chilled pink champagne, and a full night of beauty sleep in one of the King Park Guest Rooms (for two!)
Book from December 18, 2009 – January 10, 2010, and pay a reduced rate of about $435 (£259) per room, per night – a whopping 20 percent off the regular price.
Tote-to-Toe also includes:
- Metropolitan London tote bag
- Access to one of London’s best Concierges
- Priority reservation in NOBU
- Access to the famous members-only Met Bar
- Healthy breakfast for two
- Late check-out until 4 p.m.
- ‘Independent London’ guidebook by Moritz Steiger & Effie Fotak
- ‘VERYstyleguide for London’ and ‘VERYstylemap for London’ guidebooks
oh tidings of comfort and joy at park hyatt washington
Head to our nation’s capital and book a cozy holiday getaway with the Comfort & Joy Winter Package at Park Hyatt Washington D.C.
Enjoy a complimentary upgrade to a Park Deluxe room, where guests can spend a frosty evening snuggled up under a fluffy down comforter. Before lights out, chase away the chill in your bones and settle in to a steaming hot bath in the Park Deluxe spa-inspired bathroom.
Then savor the flavors of a revitalizing pot of tea from the hotel’s famously unique Tea Cellar. Boasting more than 50 rare teas from regions of China, Japan, Sri Lanka, and the Himalayas, the Tea Cellar is sure to please anyone in need of a soothing night-cap. If the kids are in tow – or you’re craving something a bit sweeter – ask for a complimentary pot of rich hot cocoa and a batch of freshly baked cookies.
As for the best part? There’s no need to worry about getting to bed early – check-out time for this special seasonal package is pushed back until 4 p.m. for a little extra hibernation.
The offer is available from November 29, 2009 through February 28, 2010. Rates start at $349 per room.
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stuffing galore on nantucket
Let someone else baste the turkey this year and relax with a few great, last minute holiday deals from Nantucket Island Resorts. Stay at the White Elephant, where Hot Dates, Cool Rates will get you a room for $150 per night from November 25-29. Then feast with the family at the All-day Thanksgiving Buffet at Brant Point Grill for $65 adults, $32.50 kids 6-12yrs and $5 for 3-5 yrs.
Book online or call 800.ISLANDS and mention “Hot Dates, Cool Rates.”
Visit http://www.nantucketislandresorts.com for more information.
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winter deals in caribbean and mexico
It’s that time of the year: the leaves are gone, and Starbucks has the gall to bring out its holiday cups. So, at the risk of getting ahead of ourselves, we wanted to send out two new deals for the Caribbean and Mexico for early 2010 (!) escapes.
On the Riviera Maya, Rosewood Mayakobá just announced its ‘5 for 4’ offer for stays from January 3 through May 10, 2010. This is available for all room categories. The fifth (consecutive) night is complimentary, and the only blackout date is March 3 to 7, 2010. The resort just won a Five Diamond Award for 2010, on top of a slew of others, but the real reason to go is the tequila library.
More details and reservations here or call 888-ROSEWOOD
In Turks & Caicos, Parrot Cay has several new offers for stays from January 10 through September 8, 2010: ‘7 for 5,’ ‘4 for 3,’ and then 25% off of any of its packages. These are applicable to all room categories. Its packages include the Stress Management Program and the Ayurvedic Program at the COMO Shambhala Retreat, the all-inclusive Sun and Seclusion, and then the new Babymoon and Romantic Runaway packages.
More details and reservations here or call 649-946-7788
After last winter, we are resolved to build in some warm sun & turquoise water getaways this year. After all, the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte only gets you so far.
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put the ahh in your spa at the peninsula new york
Looking for a spa pick-me up from one of Condé Nast Traveler’s Hot Spas of 2009? Visit The Peninsula Spa by ESPA, New York before the New Year and take advantage of these glorious spa deals.
Spacation: $250.00 (valued at $404, valid Monday through Sunday, offer expires 12/31/09)
- 60-minute treatment of choice (Holistic Massage, Intensive Facial or Organic Sunless Tanning Treatment)
- 15-minute “Deeper Relaxation” addition with choice of Express Facial or Scalp Massage
- Naturally Peninsula Spa Cuisine Lunch
- Complimentary use of the sundeck, pool, fitness center and all yoga and core classes
- Two ESPA introductory products to continue your spa experience at home
- Guests encouraged to arrive 60 minutes prior to treatment to make full use of spa facilities, including the Asian Tea Lounge, relaxation areas, and Heat Experience with steam room, sauna, ice fountain, and experience shower.
Weekday Pricing Promotions (valid Monday through Thursday, offer expires 11/30/09)
- $150: Any 60 min. treatment normally priced at $195 now discounted to $150.
- $250: Only the following 90 minute services normally priced at $295 are now discounted to $250: Swedish, Hot Stone, Aromatherapy, Deep Tissue and Maternity Massage, also the Refining Enzyme Facial.
Please note that these discounts CANNOT BE COMBINED with any other promotions or discounts, such as member discount, $30 GCs. or any other weekday special. This will only apply to clients who are paying full price with no other DISCOUNTS.
Deals can be found online at: http://www.peninsula.com/New_York/en/Wellness/default.aspx#/New_York/en/Wellness/The_Peninsula_Spa_by_ESPA/Spa_Journeys/
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on the road again with park hyatt’s fall-friendly offerings
There’s a tell-tale bite to the wind and a leafy crunch underfoot, which means that autumn is right around the corner. So load up the car, breathe in that crisp air, and embark on an All-American road trip to delight in the season’s brilliant fall foliage – and Park Hyatt’s latest offers.
1. Guests will give thanks for the Park Hyatt Washington’s An American Harvest package, available now through November 29. Enjoy an upgrade to a Park Deluxe room, featuring spa-inspired limestone rain showers and deep soaking tubs. Then quiet that rumbling tummy with a complimentary signature apple pie from the hotel’s award-winning Blue Duck Tavern while cozying up and sipping on a seasonal beverage in the hotel’s Lounge. Who could resist an Apple Cinnamon Martini from the new fall cocktail menu? Prices for the package start at $309 per room, plus tax.
Don’t miss out on the Blue Duck Tavern’s Thanksgiving brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on November 26. The prix fixe, three-course menu is $85 per person (only $42.50 for children ages 6-12, and complimentary for kids under six). An á la carte Thanksgiving dinner will also be available from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
2. Think pink at the Park Hyatt Toronto! For the month of October, guests can help promote breast cancer awareness by staying in the newly-fashioned “Pink Suite.” Dreamed up by Canadian designer Sarah Richardson, of HGTV’s Design Inc., the one-of-a-kind suite features pink bedding, artwork, a sitting room, and various accents in the bathroom. Guests will also enjoy the all-pink culinary creations and amenities offered during their stay in the “Pink Suite.”
For each of the suite’s rack rate reservations, Park Hyatt Toronto will donate to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation; all funds raised will support breast cancer research and community health projects for those living with or at risk for the disease.
3. Expect to hear Elton John’s Candle in the Wind ballad at Park Hyatt Philadelphia over the next few months. The hotel’s newest package honors the life of the late Princess Diana with two VIP tickets to the Diana: A Celebration exhibit at the National Constitution Center, now through December 30.
Diana: A Celebration presents nine galleries showcasing the life and legacy of Diana Frances Spencer, Princess of Wales. The award-winning exhibit provides an intimate glimpse into her childhood, her engagement and fairytale royal wedding with Prince Charles, their children, and Diana’s tireless charity work.
Highlights include:
- Diana’s royal wedding gown, diamond tiara, veil, 25-foot train, shoes and parasol
- 28 dresses worn by Diana during her public life, including suits and gowns designed by Versace, Valentino, Chanel, and Azagury, among others
- Diamond tiaras and priceless family jewels
- Home movies of Diana’s childhood, historical artifacts, personal letters, photos and heirlooms
4. At Park Hyatt Chicago, every girl will feel like a Princess with the hotel’s American Girl Place Package. During their stay, children will receive a child-sized Park Hyatt robe and slippers for pint-sized pampering, as well as a bubble bath experience complete with a personal bath butler and a tasty “coconut flavored beverage.” Girls can snuggle up in their rooms to watch one of the four American Girl movies before the nightly turn-down service of milk and cookies. To top it all off, there’s an American Girl doll travel bed to take home as a memento! The offering is available until December 16 and includes accommodations for two and complimentary breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant, NoMI.
5. Picture Colorado and your mind may conjure up images of powdery-soft snow banks and bundled-up ski bunnies. The latest offer at Park Hyatt Beaver Creek is sure to leave you smiling with an unexpected dose of sunshine. Sign up for the hotel’s Sunshine on Sale deal, book any two nights between now and December 1 and receive the third night free.
Be sure to test out the menu at the new 8100 Bar & Grill restaurant or sink into the healing waters at Allegria Spa.
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