country living

January 30th, 2009

With the dollar faring better against the pound than it has in years, 2009 is the time to visit the U.K.  Through the Royal Oak Foundation, the American affiliate of the National Trust of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, American visitors can further maximize savings by staying at one of the Trust’s affordable Holiday Cottages in an authentically Anglo setting and become part of country life (i.e., having a jolly time at the village pub).  One may choose from over 360 cottages from the Cornish coast to the Yorkshire dales, including ten new homes.  Adding to the experience, many of the cottages had previous lives as former sporting grandstands, water towers, and lighthouse cottages. (more…)

$10 treats in toronto

January 29th, 2009

What can an Alexander Hamilton buy you these days?  At Park Hyatt Toronto, a $10 bill can unbelievably get you a third night stay.  In celebration of the hotel’s 10th anniversary, this elegant Park Hyatt, located in the heart of Yorkville, is offering a list of 10 very special items at the very insignificant price of just $10!  This offer is available for guests booking an overnight stay from February 17-27, 2009.  Find the full list of extras below… (more…)

cruise to wimbledon

January 28th, 2009

Calling all tennis fanatics!  Crystal Cruises has announced a six-night, tennis-themed, post-cruise land program with – wait for it – VIP access to the Wimbledon Championships semifinals and finals!  This program is available following Crystal Symphony’s June 19th cruise from London to Stockholm, which features a stop at theTennis Hall of Fame in Bastad, Sweden.  Along with the Wimbledon Centre Court tickets, guests have access to the legendary Fairway Village and accommodations at London’s ultra-luxe Savoy Hotel.  So whether it is Federer vs. Nadal, or Williams vs. Williams, Crystal Cruises will get you there; game, set, match. (more…)

cucumber in paradise

January 26th, 2009

Little things do count.  For guests lounging by one of the three pools at Rosewood Mayakobá, the staff comes around with fresh cucumber slices.  A perfect chaser for last night’s tequila.

the language of love

January 26th, 2009

Fortunately for lovers looking to get away for the long Valentine’s Day weekend, love is a language spoken all over the world. For those who’ve had a hard time deciding which hemisphere to celebrate in, there are plenty of last-minute options that will suit any taste.

Spa Cottage at Parrot Cay

Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos

Why: Beautiful villas, miles of white sand beaches, and clear blue seas

What: Relax, regroup, and reinstate the romance on Parrot Cay’s private island. For an even more intimate retreat, rent the COMO Shambhala Cottage and share spa treatments and a Valentine’s Day dinner of seafood and caviar

How Much: Rates start at $775 per night; the Cottage is available for $200 for four hours and $350 for eight hours

Insider’s Tip: Experience a Caribbean sunset from the water and toast the end of the day with a glass or two of wine – the perfect sundowner (more…)

very american valentine’s day retreats

January 22nd, 2009

With Valentine’s Day falling over President’s Day Weekend, couples have the chance to get away for the perfect long weekend. This year, celebrate Valentine’s Day and the American presidents with a trip within the States.

 

Jared Coffin House, Nantucket, Massachusetts

Why: Long walks along the moors followed by a drink in front of the fireplace of the whaling captain’s mansion

What: Fabulous rates plus chocolate-covered local cranberries and a gourmet breakfast-in-bed

How Much: $124 for Saturday night; guests can extend the weekend at only $75 a night. Add a jeep rental to explore the island for $75 a day

Insider’s Tip: Head to Ladybird Lingerie for top of the line in women’s lingerie (most likely on sale, no less…) including pieces from Cosabella, Aubade, Chantalle, and Eberjey (more…)

bang for the buck in bangkok

January 22nd, 2009

While it may be the dead of winter, things are always hot in Bangkok – especially the deals.  Like its counterpart in London, the Metropolitan Bangkok is cutting travelers a break.  A City Room (normally $260 per night) can be had for just $99 per night – 62% off!  Similar savings are on hand for a Studio Room, now $119 down from $300 (60% off), and a Metropolitan Room, now $150 down from $320 (53% off).

(more…)

the peninsula spa by espa, new york officially opens

January 21st, 2009

A tranquil haven from the city, New York’s largest luxury spa, The Peninsula Spa by ESPA, New York opened January 1, 2009, spanning three floors and 35,000 square feet. The spa, designed by New York-based Alexandra Champalimaud, features a Fitness Center, a glass-enclosed pool with panoramic views of the city, and ESPA‘s signature dramatic design elements, such as the stunning marble ice fountain surrounded by a 24-karat-gold mosaic by Bisazza.
In addition to ESPA’s core line of products and treatments, the new spa will introduce ESPA Super Active, a highly-advanced range of products with pure, potent combinations of 100% natural ingredients. The revolutionary line complements three new 90-minute facials that offer complex lymphatic drainage massage techniques and use of Rose Quartz Crystal for product application to yield immediate, visible results for specific skincare concerns such as Rosacea, wrinkles, damaged skin, uneven tone, and extremely dry skin. (more…)

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