The Bride's Diary - Honeymoons & Holidays

Bunga Raya Island Resort, Malaysia

2012-02-16T11:44:00.000+11:00

Bunga Raya Island Resort is a luxurious jewel set on a coral reef island just off the coast of Borneo. A secluded island hideaway of 47 timbered villas, the resort is tucked away on a tranquil and hidden bay framed by crescent shaped white sand beach on one side and the centuries old virgin jungle on the other.

Each private villa is hand-crafted by local tradesmen, terraced into the hillside reflecting the traditional simplicity of the Borneo architectural style, blending seamlessly with the comforts and needs of the most sophisticated and discerning luxury traveller. Private balconies offer jaw dropping vistas of the beach below and the South China Sea beyond.

Villas range from simple timbered dwellings, steps from the beach, to opulent 3 bedroom, multi-level units with wrap around decks and indulgent private plunge pools. A dedicated hilltop spa, with exotic private spa pavilions, blends the very finest of Traditional Asian and Western treatments which capture restorative powers of indigenous plants and oils.

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Sweet Frills!

2012-02-15T09:00:00.000+11:00

Enjoy and relax away your honeymoon with the lovely Floral Façade Cami and Short and Cami Dress from Jethro & Jackson. Pretty and sexy, your new hubby will love the playful frills and sweet love heart print in pink and red.

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Seven Nights of Savings at Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa

2012-02-14T14:24:00.000+11:00

Save 30% at Samoa’s premiere luxury resort, Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa, with their amazing stay seven nights but pay only five nights. Priced from only $869 per person and featuring a range of great inclusions this deal at the untouched beachfront paradise that is Sinalei, is just too good to pass by.

The seven night deal includes accommodation in a Garden View Fale, return airport transfers, afternoon tea daily, free use of the resorts tennis courts, Golf course and all non-motorised water sports including kayaking and snorkelling equipment and is valid for sale until 17 February 2012 or until sold out and valid for travel from 01 February – 31 March 12 and 17 April – 27 June 12, 2012.

Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa is surrounded by lush vibrant tropical gardens, white sandy beaches and the irresistible beauty of nature. It is an absolute utopia for couples and honeymooners and is a unique and inspiring destination where hospitality is bound with warm happy smiles.

Sinalei offers guests the complete package in the utmost intimacy and style. With 29 luxurious accommodation Fales, two magnificent dining options, an array of activities and excursions, the choice between a fresh water lagoon pool or the blue pacific ocean to relax by, there is always something for guests to do and experience.

For the ultimate in any resort stay, Sinalei also boosts a stunning beach front Serenity Spa offering a wide range of pampering treatments in three exquisite treatment Fales. This uniquely simple open-air spa has every facility for the ultimate relaxing break in totally private surrounds.

Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa’s seven night package starts from only $869 per person and includes seven nights’ accommodation in a Garden Fale, return airport transfers, afternoon tea daily, use of the tennis courts and golf course and free use of all non-motorised water sports.

For bookings contact Travelscene on 13 872 835 and quote “Booking code: SIN7for5” or visit Travelscene

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Banyan Tree Ungasan, Bali

2012-02-13T14:27:00.003+11:00

With unrivalled panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, Banyan Tree Ungasan, Bali presents the ideal Bali experience for the worldly traveller. With pure white beaches, the promise of perfect blue waters and golden sunshine, Banyan Tree Ungasan offers the antidote to the demands of modern life.

Perched 70 meters above sea level on the cliffs of Bali’s southernmost peninsula, close to the famous Uluwatu Temple, the resort offers the highest level of comfort and privacy synonymous with the Banyan Tree brand.

Experience the epitome of cliff top living with our villas, each with a private pool and offering the highest level of comfort and serenity.

Visit Banyan Tree Ungasan

Design Hotels 2012 Book

2012-02-10T09:37:00.000+11:00

This year’s annual edition of The Design Hotels book comes with 220 unique and inspiring hotels worldwide featuring 21 new member hotels and including new destinations like Sydney, Bogotá, Portobelo and Nairobi. With the new book, readers can explore the gateways to some of the most creative neighborhoods around the world – Design Hotels’ member properties.

Whether it’s the little street of old-time weavers or an area where a new generation of “urban artists” express themselves on walls, furniture and whatever else they can find, each locality is unique and each one tells a special story of where you are.

“A hotel should be much more than a beacon of creativity and hospitality. It should be a member of the community. At times it’s a valued partner standing alongside other businesses in a local scene. But it can also be a leading figure, helping a neighborhood transform itself as it takes on an exciting new shape and purpose,” says Design Hotels founder and CEO Claus Sendlinger.

The member properties do this by offering guests a slice of local experiences that are topical. They are meeting places for creative folks and individuals looking for like-minded company. Their staff is absorbed into the fabric of the neighborhood, so much so, that it’s like visiting a cool friend in an unknown city.

So go on and flip through the pages of Design Hotels' new book and choose not just hotels to stay but places to be.

Visit Design Hotels and selected book retailers worldwide to grab a copy.

Gigli d'Oro Suite, Italy

2012-02-03T10:29:00.000+11:00

Charming and captivating in a modern setting, upscale design and an attentive and elegant return to the past, Gigli d’Oro Suite, in the old city center of Rome features 6 amazing luxury suites. Nestled in the heart of the old city centre of Rome, Gigli d’Oro Suite conveys the feeling of a boutique hotel.

An entire traditional 15th-century medieval palace that still conveys the flair of an old Roman residence is exclusively dedicated to 6 original luxury suites equipped with every amenity and manned by an ever available staff.

Set in an atmosphere of relaxation and privacy, Gigli d’Oro Suite's exclusive entrance with direct access from the road will make you relive the charm and feeling of its historic past. Guests are welcome to evocative settings where no detail has been overlooked and where gorgeous designer furnishings are coupled with accurately preserved medieval elements, such as exposed beams, old portals, period floors and stairs.

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Pinnacles

2012-01-30T15:58:00.000+11:00

Pinnacles is the ultimate in 5 star luxury self-contained accommodation situated in Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the fabulous Whitsunday Islands. Pinnacles you can indulge your senses to make your stay a memorable experience.

This award-winning complex offers 29 stylish 1, 2 and 3 bedroom self contained apartments all with spa, spacious balconies and magnificent Coral Sea views. Enjoy the splendour of the Whitsunday Islands from your balcony and the Great Barrier Reef on your doorstep. Sail the pristine waters of the Whitsunday's, relax with a treatment in our on-site day spa or just laze by the pool and use our gym and sauna.

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Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island

2012-01-27T11:08:00.000+11:00

Capella Lodge is Lord Howe luxury and Lord Howe Island's premium boutique accommodation. Commanding stunning ocean and mountain views the lodge affords a civilised, stylish and sophisticated escape. Resting atop romantic Lovers Bay and at the foot of the imperious twin peaks rising dramatically above, Capella Lodge welcomes spectacular views of the ocean, reef and mountains into the lodge.

An intimate nine contemporary island-style suites are designed to complement Lord Howe's pristine natural environment and provide a luxurious, serene refuge. Inspired by the carefree spirit of the Australian beach house, this is barefoot luxury at its best.

Capella Lodge's contemporary cuisine, first name service, relaxed sophistication and intimate surrounds combine to deliver a unique and exclusive Lord Howe Island experience.

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St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland

2012-01-26T09:40:00.000+11:00

Until recently, St. Patrick’s Day was a bigger celebration for the Irish in other countries than on their home soil, but this has changed dramatically in the past few years, with residents of the Republic and Northern Ireland embracing Lá Fhéile Pádraig. So celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland with Emerald Custom Tours! Jetsetter has a great deal on the tour for five nights and six days,

On March 17, Dublin puts on the biggest show of all, and this is where Emerald Custom Tours’ six-day guided tour will finish, timed to this grand finale. Before the dramatic conclusion, guests will visit fascinating sights like the 12th-century Rock of Cashel, the Glen of Two Lakes, and drive the historic Titanic Trail to Cobh — the port from which the Titanic sailed on the centenary of its fateful voyage.

Itinerary:

Day One: Arrive at Dublin Airport

Drive to Cork, with sightseeing along the way. Visit the ancient home of Irish kings, the Rock of Cashel, and its 12th- and 13th-century castles. Tour downtown Cork and the city’s English Market.
Overnight at Hayfield Manor

Day Two: Tour County Cork
Visit Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone, then drive the historic Titanic Trail to seaside Cobh and see the shipyard from which the Titanic was launched, and the exhibition commemorating its centenary. Visit the Cobh Heritage Centre and tour the scenic Kinsale Peninsula, with lunch in the quaint town of Kinsale, and visits of Charles Fort and Desmond Castle.
Overnight at Hayfield Manor; breakfast and lunch included

Day Three: Cork to Kilkenny
Day Three includes visits to Kilkenny Castle and leisure time in the charming town.
Tour Jerpoint Abbey and Kilkenny Castle, with lunch and free time in charming Kilkenny. In the afternoon transfer to Mount Juliet resort in the countryside and explore the 1,500 acres of grounds and many sporting and outdoor activities.
Overnight at Mount Juliet; breakfast, lunch and dinner, with wine, included

Day Four: County Wicklow
Known as the “Garden of Ireland,” County Wicklow is lush and full of parks and well-kept estates with formal gardens. Visit Glendalough, the Glen of Two Lakes, a dramatic glacial valley filled with ancient monastic ruins, then tour Powerscourt, the grandest of Wicklow’s estates, which has extensive gardens and landscaping. Have lunch in Wicklow’s Roundwood Village and visit the James Joyce Tower before arriving in Dublin to a welcome hot Irish whiskey on arrival at the hotel.
Overnight at Clontarf Castle; breakfast and lunch included

Day Five: St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin!
Day is at your leisure to watch the holiday parade and explore top sights, including the Guinness Storehouse (brewery and museum), the Old Jameson Distillery, the National Museum of Ireland, the city of Dublin itself and its famous Phoenix Park.
Overnight at Clontarf Castle; breakfast included

Day Six: Depart from Dublin Airport

Visit Jetsetter

Travel in Style!

2012-01-25T11:30:00.000+11:00

Stylish and functional, these Mr and Mrs passport holders from Weddingstar are perfect for your romantic honeymoon away. Pair with matching luggage tags and you and your new hubby are ready to travel in style!

Visit Weddingstar

Villa Chi, Phuket

2012-01-24T10:32:00.000+11:00

This ultra chic three-bedroom sits just above the magnificent shoreline of the exclusive Millionaires' Mile headland on Phuket's west coast. Every room offers opulence, comfort and incredible sea views, while its 16-metre infinity swimming pool is an inviting expanse of light marble that blends in with the shimmering ocean waves below.

Bask in the tropics and entertain in style with extravagant indoor and outdoor living spaces including a glamorous kitchen and dining area. Vivid avant-garde design finishes within Villa Chi enchant the eyes as much as the spectacle of sea, sky and sunsets in full view beyond.

Couples and small groups will relish in having both the seclusion of a private villa and access to the facilities and services of a five-star resort. This unique feature also makes Villa Chi an exceptional location for a wedding or an exquisite event.

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Villa Caletas, Costa Rica

2012-01-23T10:18:00.000+11:00

Villa Caletas, a luxury boutique Costa Rica hotel, is 1150 feet over the vibrant Central Pacific coast. The hotel is prized for not only for its location in the lush tropical jungle, but for its design and décor. Be prepared to be blissfully taken away and experience amazing views, outstanding facilities and service that is second to none, the ideal place for your Costa Rica vacation.

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Love Home Swap

2012-01-19T12:46:00.000+11:00

As Australians everywhere swap their swimmers for a suit and reluctantly head back to work, international home exchange website Love Home Swap has come up with a list of the top 12 must visit holiday destinations for 2012.

Home swapping is revolutionising the way Australians travel. With thousands of homes of all shapes and sizes available on Love Home Swap both across Australia and in 70 countries around the globe, swappers save themselves up to $2,000 per exchange meaning they can holiday for longer and more often!

Debbie Wosskow, Founder of Love Home Swap says, “Home exchanges are a great way to see the world without spending a fortune. We have drawn up a list of locations that have been very popular search destinations by Australians on the Love Home Swap website.”

“With the London Olympics taking place in August, there has been a huge amount of interest from Australians looking to swap with Londoners. Other dreamy destinations such as Sri Lanka and Costa Rica are also sought after locations, proving what we already know, that Australians love an adventure and the chance to immerse themselves in a different culture. And with home swapping, they have that unique chance to experience their destination like a local, rather than a tourist,” said Debbie.

So if you thought there wasn’t room in your budget for a mid-year holiday, think again. Joining Love Home Swap costs just $1 for a four week trial, after which annual membership costs $175 per year, allowing you to swap as many times as you like.

Love Home Swap’s list of must visit destinations include:
1. London – Offering everything from swanky apartments in central London to beautiful homes nestled away in the quieter city streets, forget over-priced and over-booked hotels and home swap for your chance to be a part of the 2012 Olympics!

2. South Africa – Take yourself from the coastal beauty of Cape Town and Plettenberg Bay, to colonial properties nestled in the mountains. South Africa is becoming more and more popular as an adventure-packed home exchange destination.

3. Sri Lanka – Take the chance of a lifetime and experience the life of a tea farmer by exchanging your home for a colonial bungalow in Central Province located on a tea estate. Alternatively there are endless beach front villas in the Southern Province with amazing sea views available to swap.

4. Greece – Live like a local in Greece by staying in a luxury villa in Santorini or a hill top property on the Island of Mykonos with breathtaking views. You could also swap with a family and live in a fishing village in Aegina and really rub shoulders with the locals.

5. Ireland – Country locations offer you the chance to immerse yourself in the rich Irish history. Home exchange options in Tipperary include stunning period properties with walled gardens and charming fireplaces. The town of Kerry features Georgian houses available to swap with 18th century courtyards set across acres of woodland overlooking the river.

6. Spain – Live like a Spaniard in one of the many of the coastal villas, or swap with a farmer and live in a stunning hillside farmhouse nestled in the Pyrenees foothills. Did someone say tapas?

7. Switzerland – If you want to experience the charm of a small town in Switzerland, places such as Vaud have beautiful World Heritage houses with breathtaking lake views. There are also fabulous traditional ski chalets available to swap in both winter and summer.

8. Canada – In summer, visit beautiful lakeside residences and log cabins in the mountains where wildlife call your front yard their home. Or plan your ski vacation around a home exchange in one of multiple amazing ski chalets available within walking distance to some of the best slopes in the world

9. Costa Rica – Known for its amazing beaches, Costa Rica also has amazing rainforests and wildlife. Properties available to swap in the dry rainforest area showcase a variety of wildlife including howler monkeys, iguanas, parrots, pelicans, frigate birds and hermit crabs. There are also many amazing resort style homes in Costa Rica's Central Pacific Highlands, oceanfront villas in Dominical as well as colonial villas on the pristine Southern Pacific Coast.

10. Tasmania – Tasmania has some of the most beautiful sweeping beaches Australia has to offer. Properties available to swap in Spring Beach report frequent sightings of dolphins and occasionally whales, while bush animals such as wallabies, kangaroos and wombats are sited from the front door. Other locations such as Table Cape overlooking the Bass Strait offer a great location to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

11. NSW North Coast – There are many hidden jewels on the North Coast of Australia that offer the perfect weekend, week or month away! Swaps include an amazing 22 acre banana, mango and fruit farm in Korora and a rural riverfront retreat on a world heritage rainforest in the Thora Valley where you can enjoy the best that nature has to offer by bushwalking, doing a spot of freshwater fishing or canoeing down the river.

12. Western Australia – From the beautiful beaches, sweeping planes and amazing wineries, Western Australia has a plethora of amazing holiday options. Living like a local in Mandurah will see you sitting on your front deck overlooking the beach or taking a drive down to the beautiful wineries in the Margaret River region. If you are looking for a city escape, there are some gorgeous renovated cottages in Perth allowing you to relax and enjoy a west-side city break with easy access to delights like Rottnest Island and Perth’s pristine beaches.

Visit Love Home Swap

Le Vasa Beach Resort in Samoa

2012-01-18T10:53:00.000+11:00

Le Vasa Beach Resort in Samoa is a secluded beachfront resort situated on a ½ mile of prime oceanfront property, on 8 acres set in an enchanting tropical paradise, with magnificent views of Manono and Savaii Islands.

Offering 13 luxurious one and two bedroom waterfront villas, Le Vasa Beach Resort is the best place to see sunsets on Upolu Island, relax in our ocean view restaurant and bar while sipping your favourite cocktail. Enjoy our pool side lounge & game room, historic monument, welcoming and romantic atmosphere, experience true Samoan hospitality.

Le Vasa Beach Resort faces a beautiful private lagoon surrounded by coral reef. A variety of activities are available including private island escape by boat, sea kayaks, snorkelling, game fishing, sunset cruises and island tours.

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Esperanza Resort, Mexico

2012-01-17T11:06:00.000+11:00

The tranquil Cabo resort retreat, Esperanza, is where the body is healed, the soul is revived, the senses are awakened and the spirit soars to new heights. A place where sun, sea, sky and earth join as one to form a tropical oasis like no other.

Esperanza Resort in Cabo offers accommodation that delivers the utmost in comfort, style and atmosphere. From spacious hotel suites, to magnificent casitas to opulent villas, every living space at Esperanza surrounds you in luxury while giving you the most authentic Cabo San Lucas experience imaginable.

The Villas at Esperanza provide the best of both worlds; nearby access to the attractions of Cabo San Lucas and a tranquil sanctuary offering Esperanza's signature service and amenities. The Villas exude a casual elegance that reflects the rich history and traditions of Mexico. Interior features include gracious living space, gourmet kitchens, spacious bedrooms and baths, hand-crafted furnishing, original art, lush garden courtyards and sweeping ocean vistas.

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Six Senses Samui, Thailand

2012-01-16T10:35:00.000+11:00

The luxuriously appointed Six Senses Samui is set around a gently sloping headland on the northern tip of Samui Island, amongst 20-acres of indigenous vegetation that ensures maximum privacy while offering uninterrupted, breathtaking panoramas to the Gulf of Siam and outlying islands.

Just 66 villas create an atmosphere of space and light whilst maintaining views from almost every location in the villa. 52 of the villas have private infinity-edged swimming pools that blend into the horizon and help maintain a feeling of seclusion, even though all of the resort’s facilities are close at hand and augmented by personal butlers.

Six Senses Samui has the reputation for serving some of the best food on Koh Samui and uses the freshest herbs, vegetables, and organic greens from the resort’s own gardens. Dining on the Rocks is located at the tip of the headland and presents 270 degree views whilst Dining on the Hill offers regional and international cuisine. A large selection of wines from many of the world’s most respected regions is featured in the cellar.

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Season's Greetings…

2011-12-22T16:11:00.004+11:00

Cabins in the Clouds, Hunter Valley

2011-12-15T12:40:00.000+11:00

Escape to tranquility and indulge your senses at Cabins in the Clouds, a secluded mountaintop retreat offering the most peaceful and secluded Hunter Valley accommodation in the Barrington region.

Soak in your private hot tub as you take in the stunning view across the mountaintop and enjoy the local wildlife. Cool off in the sparkling swimming pool, try your hand at tennis or treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment in your own cabin.

Choose from three charming and peaceful cabins – Peta, Tallarook and Jabiru, each offering relaxation and privacy in a truly spectacular setting. Catering for singles, couples or groups of 6 to 7. Stay on your own, with your partner or bring your friends for a fun time together.

Take a short drive to boutique vineyards, the olive grove, lavender farm, historic Morpeth, Tocal Homestead, Dungog, local artisans, homely country pubs and national parks, all on the doorstep of your romantic Hunter Valley accommodation.

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Rendezvous, St Lucia

2011-12-14T14:15:00.000+11:00

Aiming to provide a truly personalised, intimate and romantic holiday, Rendezvous is the perfect couples resort. Rendezvous is the ideal romantic holiday where you can escape for couples from the stresses and strains of everyday life.

Set on a beach with miles of white sand and an unbelievably clear sea, we have created a resort that is unlike any other. Candlelit dining on the beach, the finest cuisine, sumptuous rooms, a lazy river pool that meanders gently through the resort creating small nooks and private hideaways, wading pools, a lush tropical garden and a brand new spa where you can reward yourself with some well-earned pampering.

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The Modern Honolulu, Hawaii

2011-12-13T10:52:00.000+11:00

Where innovative design meets barefoot luxury, The Modern Honolulu promises a refreshingly new experience. Home to Iron Chef Morimoto’s celebrated new restaurant Morimoto Waikiki, the hotel’s understated elegance and service has earned acclaim for service and design during its opening year.

The Modern Honolulu luxury hotel offers 353 stylish guestrooms, highlighting the glittering city skyline, moored yachts in the harbour, and spectacular ocean views. Many offer a private terrace where you can enjoy breakfast in your plush robe or play with an iPad borrowed from the hotel. Take a dip in the Sunrise Pool while indulging in a signature cocktail or bask under towering palms at the Sunset Pool. Round out the day with a pampering treatment at the hotel’s revitalising spa.

Just a short walk away, adventures await at the world-renowned Waikiki Beach, one of the most iconic surf spots in the world, just one of many nearby attractions. Explore endless retailers at the Ala Moana center or premier shopping along Kalakaua Avenue. Witness the profound energy that results when city meets island during your stay at The Modern Honolulu.

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The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

2011-12-08T11:18:00.000+11:00

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is a unique luxury resort offering a decidedly different perspective, situated in the heart of The Strip directly between CityCentre and Bellagio. Experience one-of-a-kind private terraces unlike any other Las Vegas resort.

Consisting of two skyscrapers, spacious suites with private terraces, 13 restaurants and 300,000 square feet of retail and entertainment space, this hotel came to make a statement – the hotel delivers a true Vegas stay in style.

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Cascade Wellness & Lifestyle, Portugal

2011-12-07T11:46:00.000+11:00

Picture yourself waking up surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of the Algarve’s west coast, uninterrupted ocean views, beautiful Portuguese landscapes, peace and serenity, you are at Cascade Wellness and Lifestyle Resort.

Situated in a unique location close to the historical city of Lagos, Portugal, on the cliff tops above the impressive splendour of Ponta da Piedade, a beautiful landscape of natural caves, grottos and sea arches, Cascade Wellness and Lifestyle Resort is, in itself, a place of stunning luxury and beauty. This is your Algarve luxury Hotel of choice.

Cascade Wellness and Lifestyle Resort has been created with local history in mind paying respect to the Portuguese. Warm natural colours of the surrounding area - tones of pale terracotta, ochre and pale yellow was the palette chosen to blend in perfect harmony with the terrain. The hotel reflects this ambiance and feeling throughout with rooms and suites styled in the individual traditions of the continents of Europe, Africa, Asia and South America.

The Resort boasts not only a 86 bedroom hotel, but luxury 4 bedroom villas and luxury 1 & 2 bedroom apartments, a huge condo pool, a fully equipped gym, a medical centre and the Cascade Performance Sports Academies.

Here the emphasis is on luxury and wellbeing. Whether your wish is to luxuriate in the stunning spa and avail yourself of the gourmet food and up market bar; or work out in the gym, perfect your sporting performance in the sports academies or perhaps a little of both, the choice is yours.

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Banyan Tree Phuket

2011-12-06T10:55:00.000+11:00

An island paradise of golden sunsets and perfect moments, Phuket offers fine beaches, turquoise seas and warm sunny weather. Discover the romance and beauty of this island with Banyan Tree Phuket. This is a destination that showcases the island’s extraordinary beauty in a setting of award-winning architecture, built in harmony with nature.

From planning a quiet retreat for two or a family holiday, the staff at Banyan Tree Phuket will put you at ease with their attentive service and traditional Asian hospitality. Indulge in a range of treatments at the renowned Banyan Tree Spa, savour the best of local and international cuisine as prepared by master chefs, or venture out to explore Phuket. Engage in water sports, visit the surrounding islands or tee off against a backdrop of mountains and lagoon.

Banyan Tree Phuket is the destination you have always dreamed off and one that you will never forget.

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Deriş Bosphorus Lodge, Turkey

2011-12-05T10:48:00.000+11:00

Deriş Bosphorus Lodge, located at Kabatas, the heart of Istanbul. With 7 unique apartments; this hotel offers luxurious, comfortable and relaxing accommodation with breathtaking views of Bosphorus, port and the Old Town!

The guests have smooth access to all business, shopping and sightseeing districts of Istanbul such as the Port, the Old Town, Grand Bazaar, Levent, Maslak, Taksim, Bosphorus area and the Asian side in 15 minutes by funicular, subway, light train, and ferries.

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Hollywood Roosevelt

2011-12-01T10:36:00.000+11:00

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel opened back in 1927. Today, with many of the historic features still remaining, the renovated 302-room hotel has established a new level of glamour in Hollywood.

Located in the heart of Hollywood, on the Walk of Fame across from the Grauman’s Chinese Theater, The Roosevelt houses some of the hottest drinking and eating venues on the west coast of America – the famous poolside Tropicana Bar, celebrity haunt Teddy’s nightclub, The Library bar which is acclaimed for its hand crafted cocktails, The Spare Room, a speakeasy gaming lounge featuring vintage bowling lanes and classic cocktails, and vaudeville inspired theater Beacher’s Madhouse and Public Kitchen and Bar offering a variety of dining options.

To top it off, the hotel’s heated outdoor swimming pool provides guests the only locale in the world where they can swim in a million dollar work of art painted by acclaimed artist David Hockney. The hotel is constantly buzzing with the entertainment industry’s glitterati.

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Villa Yin, Thailand

2011-11-30T12:07:00.000+11:00

Enter Villa Yin and discover the treasures of one of Phuket’s true luxury rental gems. This palatial work of art mixes elements of classic Thai architecture and a dazzling collection of contemporary art with an ultra–luxury design approach.

Pamper your soul in seclusion and privacy at Villa Yin. Situated on Kamala headland’s water edge, this spectacular half-acre site overlooks the breathtaking turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea and features a unique private stairwell to a natural, shallow swimming enclave in the sea below.

Delight in the villa’s indoor-outdoor tropical living plan which showcases four elegant bedrooms and a 18-meter marble pool that wraps around expansive entertaining platforms along the island’s most prestigious west coast location. Villa Yin is an ideal luxury retreat for families and private and corporate groups.

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Tahéima Wellness Resort & Spa, Mexico

2011-11-29T10:31:00.000+11:00

Tahéima Wellness Resort and Spa is nestled on the Mexican Riviera Nayarit just a 10-minute drive from the airport. Tahéima guests can view the Sierra Madre mountains cresting to the east with the world class golf course below and slip into the warm waters of the Pacific just a short stroll away.

Tahéima Wellness Resort and Spa offers luxury accommodations set in a tropical lagoon, a state-of-the-art fitness center, an array of spa treatment options, over 25 different daily classes for body and mind such as Yoga, TaiChi, Pilates, and pottery, as well as holistic practices including Labyrinth Meditation, Chi Gong, Temazcal and more. Gourmet dining is courtesy of master chef Gerárd Dupont, president of l'Académie Culinaire de France.

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Aston Bali Resort & Spa

2011-11-28T11:25:00.000+11:00

Located in the exclusive enclave of Nusa Dua on one of the most stunning private beaches of Benoa Peninsula, the Aston Bali Resort & Spa offers a combination of traditional Balinese hospitality and casual elegance. Only 20 minutes away from the airport, Aston Bali Resort & Spa is the ideal retreat to relax.

The hotel, built in a Balinese contemporary style, offers 187 newly refurbished and fully equipped rooms and suites. Ideal for honeymooners and discerning travelers who seek a carefree escape.

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Old Bahama Bay Resort, Bahamas

2011-11-24T10:39:00.000+11:00

Old Bahama Bay is the ultimate Bahamas holiday, offering tranquility, relaxation and pampered service. Combining Bahamian charm and luxury, Old Bahama Bay is an all suite resort with 73 spacious beachfront suites and a 72 slip port of entry marina.

Activities at Old Bahama Bay include massage services, bicycles, some of the region's finest fishing, snorkeling and boating. This boutique oceanfront resort is the ideal setting for a romantic honeymoon, a short getaway or family vacation.

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Angsana Ihuru, Maldives

2011-11-23T10:36:00.000+11:00

Enjoy the surreal view of miles and miles of turquoise waters. Venture into the ocean and watch dazzling marine life. Take a break from civilisation and live on an uninhabited island for the day. Wake up to a sensory experience, every day at Angsana Ihuru.

Angsana Ihuru will bring out the romantic in you. The resort, located on the Ihuru island in North Malé Atoll, is 20 minutes by speedboat from Malé. Romance is always in the air when you have the privilege of seclusion and privacy.

Treat your ‘special one’ with a dash of adventure. Discover the house reef or explore an uninhabited island. Learn the fine art of Maldivian cooking from the master chefs or get a relaxing massage at the award-winning Angsana Spa.

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Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa, Cook Islands

2011-11-22T11:22:00.000+11:00

Let the pressure of today's fast paced world just drift away and enjoy world class luxury private beachfront and beachside villa accommodation when you stay at Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa. Offering very exclusive private luxury villas in the Cook Islands, all with private pools and most spa pools, along with many other included luxuries that other resorts and hotels don’t offer as standard. Surround yourself with a standard of exclusiveness for romantic tropical vacations and luxury honeymoon vacation packages which will refresh you, soothe your soul and stay etched in your memory long after you leave Rarotonga.

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Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia

2011-11-21T11:37:00.000+11:00

Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef is an exclusive safari camp hidden in the white sand dunes of Western Australia’s Cape Range National Park. Nine spacious wilderness tents are just metres from the water’s edge and the world’s greatest fringing coastal coral reef.

Sal Salis accommodation and hosting style exudes ‘Wild Bush Luxury’ and Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef guides deliver an extraordinary insight to one of Australia’s best kept natural secrets – Ningaloo Reef. Sal Salis’s ecological principles also ensure that your stay generates a minimal environmental footprint.

In keeping with the philosophy of ‘Wild Bush Luxury’, the focus of your stay at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef is the wilderness around you and its marine and land inhabitants. Your accommodation is designed to expose you to the sights and sounds outside your tent. There are also key comforts including: a supremely comfortable bed, 100% cotton linen (500 threadcount), a choice of pillows, soft bathtowels, an en suite bathroom, delicious food and great hosting.

The main camp building is raised above the sand and coastal scrub with views out to the reef and breakers beyond. Dinner is hosted against a back-drop of rich orange sunsets over the Indian Ocean and in the cool of the evening kangaroos and wallaroos appear from the bush for their evening graze.

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The Muri Beach Club Hotel

2011-11-18T11:06:00.002+11:00

The Muri Beach Club Hotel enjoys an enviable location on the very best stretch of beach on Muri Lagoon. Beachfront rooms have stunning views over the lagoon and the small off-shore islands (motu). This perfect getaway retreat is privately owned and operated with relaxation, privacy and guest satisfaction as its mission objective.

The amenities at Muri Beach Club Hotel are designed to pamper! The Fine Dining Restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner specialising in Pacific Rim Cuisine. Other amenities include the exclusive Lagoon Lounge, large central swimming pool, spa, personalised wedding and honeymoon co-ordinator, business centre, shopping including Polynesian jewelery and resort wear, aqua-centre, tour desk, rental vehicles and 24 hour Reception ensure every need is catered for.

Boutique in style and service, the Muri Beach Club Hotel welcomes you to experience the real rhythm of Rarotonga… in absolute chic sophistication.

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The Luang Say Residence, Laos

2011-11-17T14:15:00.000+11:00

Boasting 24 exquisitely appointed luxury suites, The Luang Say Residence extends through 6 stand alone pavillions and offers a contemporary reflection of life in the French colonial era.

The rooms in The Luang Say Residence feature wood furnishings, regal designs and decorations that truly reflect the rational designs of romantic colonial France. Each of the suites boasts ample living space and views from the private terraces and exterior lounges. The Pioneer Suites offer bathrooms that open into beautiful gardens while the Explorateur Suite features oversized, egg shelled lacquer bathtubs, walk-in showers and double vanity units.

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Honeymoon Hot List

2011-11-15T10:27:00.001+11:00

To make picking your honeymoon destination, Holidays For Couples has released the Honeymoon Hot List featuring 20 of the best resorts around the world. Be sure to visit the website to see more about each destination.

1. Alila Villas Hadahaa, Maldives

2. UXUA Casa Hotel, Brazil

3. Anantara Phuket Resort & Spa, Phuket, Thailand

4. Diva Maldives Resort and Spa, Maldives

5. Six Senses Destination Spa, Phuket, Thailand
6. Amantaka, Laos

7. Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay, Oman

8. Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa, Blue Mountains, Australia

9. Misibis Bay Raintree, Philippines

10. Cooper Square Hotel, New York City

11. Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi

12. Atlantis, Dubai

13. Wynn Encore Hotel, Las Vegas

14. Evason Ma’In Hot Springs, Jordan
15. Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Mexico

16. Sal Salis, Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia

17. Amala, Bali

18. Rumours of Escape, Cook Islands

19. Princess d’Annam, Vietnam

20. Buddha Bar Hotel, Prague, Czech Republic

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Mount Cinnamon, Grenada

2011-11-14T11:17:00.000+11:00

Mount Cinnamon Resort offers guests a relaxed and friendly Caribbean experience. The 21 spacious villas and luxury apartments feature bright, fun, modern, chic décor. Savvy's Restaurant offers some of Grenada's finest cuisine, accompanied by stunning panoramic views of the crystal clear waters of Grand Anse Beach, mountains and the charming and picturesque town of St. George.

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Grand Hotel Villa Medici, Florence

2011-11-11T09:22:00.000+11:00

Grand Hotel Villa Medici is ahistorical residence located in the centre of Florence at walking distance from all major art sites and shopping locations. With the train station around 500 metres away and on-site parking available, you can easily explore the many sights of this magnificent city on foot.

The Grand Hotel Villa Medici offers a welcoming environment where the high-quality service meets the elegance of the interior furnishings. The 100 rooms and suites mean you can choose just how you want to enjoy your stay. The rooms on the top floor, which have private terraces, overlook the enchanting cityscape, while the Penthouse Suite offers a large terrace with a Jacuzzi pool and breathtaking views.

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Karon Phunaka Resort & Spa, Thailand

2011-11-10T10:24:00.000+11:00

Perched on the cliff of Naka over the vibrant Phuket, Karon Phunaka Resort & Spa offers a luxurious and quality accommodation with stunning views of the city, tropical forest and the blue Andaman Sea. The 8 villa-style buildings are given modern and decent tropical design to complement its natural surroundings and distinguish itself from other tradition accommodations.

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Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat

2011-11-09T11:14:00.000+11:00

Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat is designed to seamlessly combine the three key ingredients of the perfect romantic getaway, privacy, comfort and luxury, within a stunning natural location.

Located in the Tweed Valley between Byron Bay and the Gold Coast hinterland, Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat comprises just 10 private architect-designed luxury bungalows. Set on 250 acres at the end of a peaceful valley, the Retreat is bordered on three sides by World Heritage National Park, assuring true peace and privacy.

For a honeymoon, romantic getaway, birthday or anniversary Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat is the ideal relaxing getaway. Stroll along stunning fern-lined gullies, under giant strangler figs and 400-year-old rainforest trees. Lie in a hammock over a bubbling rainforest brook of pure, crystal-clear mountain water.

At your bungalow, enjoy freshly prepared, delicious gourmet food that has been quietly delivered to you, relax with a DVD from the extensive library and then snuggle up for the night with your loved one in exotic luxury.

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Omni Puerto Aventuras Resort, Mexico

2011-11-08T12:36:00.000+11:00

Nestled on the Puerto Aventuras Caribbean coastline, a luxury yachting community in the heart of the Mayan Riviera, is the Omni Puerto Aventuras Resort. These villas and luxury condominiums were built using native materials to reflect their natural surroundings.

At the Omni Puerto Aventuras Resort, you can stretch out in one of 30 oversized boutique style guest rooms all furnished with local décor. You'll indulge in creature comforts beyond your expectations, such as a private Jacuzzi and a balcony with hammock.

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Chateau St. Philippe, France

2011-11-07T11:15:00.001+11:00

Built as a priory in 1032 by Benedictine monks, Chateau St. Philippe was transformed by a 19th-century baron into his noble home. Today Chateau St. Philippe is the ideal place to enjoy the quintessential French lifestyle.

Explore local bakeries, cheese shops, and open-air markets that typify French living. Excellent shopping and restaurant opportunities can be found in the surrounding towns and villages.

Take in the spectacular views of the Alps, Mt. Blanc and the iridescent glow of the setting sun while enjoying aperitifs on the terrace. Children find themselves playing outside or exploring the grounds.

Each of the spacious en suite bedrooms have distinct style, combining antique charm with modern comfort. All rooms have a magnificent view, most provide a seating area and some have fireplaces and restored hardwood floors enriched with imported rugs.

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Little Good Harbour, Barbados

2011-11-04T09:48:00.002+11:00

Just minutes north of Port St Charles, this charming cluster of cottages, nestled around two swimming pools and lush gardens, epitomises the best of Caribbean architecture. Located in the tranquil little fishing community of Shermans, Little Good Harbour's luxury guest cottages impart the unique individuality of one of the last family-run ocean front hotels on the fashionable west coast of Barbados.

Little Good Harbour has 10 one bedroom and 3 two bedroom garden cottages along with 6 three bedroom Vineyard suites which are ideal for families looking for their own private villa. The old seaside Fort which now houses the Fish Pot restaurant, also houses the stunning two and three bedroom Fort suites with their breathtaking views of the Caribbean sea.

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Get Rewarded For Spending Summer in Paradise!

2011-11-03T10:52:00.000+11:00

InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa is rewarding guests who stay at the property for five nights or more this summer with a $500 resort credit. Summer packages at InterContinental Fiji include accommodation in a Garden Room and buffet breakfast for two adults and two children under 12, from FJD$656 (approx AU$350) per night with a bonus $500 resort credit provided to all guests that book for a stay of 5 nights or more.

This summer, wake up to white sand, endless ocean and 35 acres of tropical gardens in the only resort on Fiji’s Natadola Beach, awarded one of the world’s top 10 beaches by Forbes magazine. Indulge in a massage treatment at Spa InterContinental, play a round of golf at the resort’s 18-hole coast hugging golf course and enjoy a romantic cabana dinner under the stars. For families, InterContinental Fiji offers its own on-site kids club, Planet Trekkers, leaving parents free to visit the adults-only pool for a cocktail and some sanity.

InterContinental Fiji’s concierge team can create personalised itineraries for each guest, from snorkelling adventures and walks through the island’s lush interior, to a cultural experience like no other on a visit to the local Sana Sana village. Guests can also upgrade their stay to Club InterContinental. An exclusive resort within a resort, Club InterContinental incorporates 55 hilltop suites all with spectacular views, a 24-hour personalised butler service, complimentary evening canapés and drinks and access to the Club InterContinental infinity pool.

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*Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Available from travel dates between 01/11/2011 – 15/12/2011 & 12/01/2012 – 29/03/212.

Hotel Elisa, Samoa

2011-11-01T09:36:00.000+11:00

Hotel Elisa is located on Apia Beach Road, Upolu, the main island of the Independent State of Samoa – 5 minutes walk to the bustling capital of Apia and a 40 minute drive from the International Airport.

The hotel has 22 moderately appointed air-conditioned rooms with magnificent views of Apia's harbour and surrounding mountains. Cool off with a dip in the new swimming pool, wake up to a view the sunrise or enjoy a cold drink on your private balcony while viewing the sunset.

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Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort

2011-10-31T11:43:00.002+11:00

With an engaging range of outdoor activities, including a Nature Reserve, Orang Utan education centre and an ecologically friendly championship golf course, Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort is the premier luxury resort in Kota Kinabalu that offers the best of Sabah in a lush, 400-acre tropical setting beside exquisite Pantai Dalit Beach.

Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort goes beyond the offerings of Kota Kinabalu hotels by providing numerous options for relaxation, including the magnificent Spa at Dalit Bay, a wide range of water sports, Rasa Ria's own catamarans for cruises and deep sea fishing, a challenging 18-hole championship golf course, tennis, horse riding, a fitness centre and a fun-filled Kids' Club.

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The Chedi Club at Tanah Gajah, Bali

2011-10-28T09:28:00.000+11:00

Nestled in an exclusive estate surrounded by lush greenery and verdant rice fields, The Chedi Club at Tanah Gajah offers one of the finest luxury retreats in the world. Surrounded on all sides by green rice fields, it is a haven of tranquility with traditional Balinese villas decorated with beautifully crafted artefacts.

With 20 elegant villas and suites, this charming hideaway is one of the best Bali resorts. With standard suites sporting generously large bedrooms and bathrooms, bathtubs, outdoor showers, and private terraces, The Chedi Club at Tanah Gajah is a 5-hectare expanse of rural landscaping and privacy.

Guests at the Spa Villas with private massage suites, saunas and cold plunge pools, can enjoy morning massages, afternoon spa treatments and spa breakfasts for two. Head off for a stroll, relax with a book at the 35m pool, or get a massage at The Spa, with two private treatment suites opening out to rice paddy views. There’s also yoga studio and gym.

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Frommer's Top Destinations List for 2012

2011-10-27T09:02:00.000+11:00

Frommer’s has unveiled their Top Destinations List for 2012. This list, compiled by Frommer’s experienced and passionate travel writers and editors, features an inspiring choice of both emerging and established destinations which are set to be big news for travellers in 2012.

Each year Frommer authors put their heads together to find those places that inspire their readers to see the world anew. For 2012, Frommer expanded the list adding destinations to match the interests of particular travellers – Ardent cruise fans, foodies, families. However you choose to travel, you will find smart suggestions and a few surprises in Frommer annual Top Destinations list.

Top 10 Destinations:

· Curaco

· Chongqing, China

· Fukuoka, Japan

· Beirut, Lebanon

· Ghana

· London, England

· Girona, Spain

· Bay of Fundy, Nova Scotia/New Brunswick, Canada

· Kansas City, Missouri, USA

· Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Top Family Destination: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Top Cruise Destination: Tromso, Norway
Top Beach Destination: Hanalei Beach, Kauai, Hawaii
Top Adventure Destination: Moab, Utah
Top Food & Drink Destination: Lima, Peru
Top City Break Destination: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Top Endangered Destination: Aysen Region, Chile
Top Value Destination: Albanian Riviera
Top Destination to Get Lost: Whitsunday Islands, Australia

Readers’ Choice: Turkey

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Let Jetsetter Plan Your Honeymoon!

2011-10-26T10:37:00.001+11:00

Haven’t found a honeymoon that’s exactly what you’re looking for? Or maybe you just want a personalised trip that is unique to the two of you. Let Jetsetter's Personal Travel Planning take the reins and plan your perfect honeymoon. Depending on what you want, Jetsetter will have you sipping a cocktail on the beach in Thailand, spotting lions in Kenya or Michelin-star restaurant hopping.

Firstly you will supply the team with some basic information about what type of honeymoon you’re looking for. Next, Jetsetter will search through their network of people who canvass the globe full time searching for the world’s best new resorts, destinations and honeymoon spots and find an Expert you can chat to on the phone or via email.

Your Expert can help you pick the perfect honeymoon destination, and once you’ve landed, they will supply you with personalised, first-hand advice on hotels, restaurants, activities and more. Once you have chosen your destination Jetsetter's booking specialist will work with you to make all your hotel reservations.

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Likuliku Lagoon Resort, Fiji

2011-10-25T10:24:00.000+11:00

Set within a turquoise lagoon on the island of Malolo, Likuliku Lagoon Resort is the ultimate destination for luxury, tranquility and romance. It is a unique and special place designed with integrity to cultural values, traditional designs and architecture, and is embraced by the renowned warmth of the Fijian people.

Featuring the first and only resort in Fiji with over-water bures - designed exclusively for couples, Likuliku Lagoon Resort, offers sheer comfort and blissful privacy amid stunning surrounds. Laze on your deck or luxuriate in your separate bathing pavilion with lagoon views from your bathtub.

On land, the split-level design of the Deluxe Beachfront Bure optimises the spectacular views over the lagoon and provides a beautiful sanctuary for a truly romantic stay. The Garden Beachfront or Beachfront Bure are only a few steps from the beach and crystal lagoon and offer a secluded haven of relaxation and privacy.

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Hotel Four Seasons Bora Bora

2011-10-24T10:33:00.000+11:00

Situated between the deep blue Pacific and the multihued waters of a tranquil lagoon, Hotel Four Seasons Bora Bora offers escape on its own sublimely private small islet. Inspired by Polynesian architecture, the village-like resort blends into a lush world of unsurpassed tropical beauty and takes full advantage of heartstopping views.

The resort offers 121 spacious hideaways nestling around Bora Bora lagoon and its outer beaches. The 100 over-water bungalows perch on stilts above the turquoise lagoon. On the shore, seven beachfront villas nestle along a stretch of semi-private beach. All overlook the pristine waters and views of spectacular Mount Otemanu.

Guest accommodations offer a restful, airy ambience inspired by local architecture – with traditional teak wood furnishings, high ceilings and roofs thatched with pandanus leaves. To accentuate the feel of Polynesia, special touches include striking works of art, private pools and deep bathtubs beside doors that slide open to reveal panoramic fresh-air views of the lagoon.

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AQUA Wellness Resort, Nicaragua

2011-10-21T11:15:00.000+11:00

AQUA Wellness Resort, is a yoga and wellness retreat and eco vacation resort located on the beautiful Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. AQUA is a place created in harmony with nature, fulfilling your vacation with health and wellness by integrating luxurious earth friendly accommodations, spa treatments, wellness programs, nutrition and the best of local cuisine. There is also a complete complement of activities from hiking trails, water sports, surfing to nature tours of whales, sea turtles and volcanoes.

Nestled on the pristine Pacific Coast just 50 km north of Costa Rica, AQUA was designed to provide the perfect setting for relaxation, rejuvenation, personal rediscovery and fun. The Pacific Ocean is the centre-piece of life at AQUA. The secluded white sand beach of Redonda Bay is just footsteps away from each eco-luxury TreeTop Villa.

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Highland Peaks

2011-10-20T16:45:00.001+11:00

Enjoy fine New Zealand hospitality, conversation, personally guided wildlife eco-tours, cuisine and wines at Highland Peaks – a small, modern, eco-friendly luxury lodge with panoramic ridge top mountain and sea views.

Built in 2005 from natural stone to a eco-friendly design, Highland Peaks's ridge top position provides stunning views from all suites and lounges. Located on 21 acres of native forest and ridge top grounds, Highland Peaks is quiet, secluded and private. The modern European styling creates a spacious, warm, light, ambience for comfortable living.

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Capella Pedregal, Mexico

2011-10-19T11:13:00.002+11:00

Capella Pedregal is the premier spa resort in Cabo San Lucas. Situated on the southernmost tip of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula, Capella Pedregal encompasses 24 spectacular mountainside and oceanfront acres. The luxury resort rests at the very point where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, near the legendary rock formations known as Land's End.

The beach resort is reached via the only privately owned tunnel in Mexico, Dos Mares. Carved through the heart of the mountain, the tunnel is a 300-meter long engineering feat that separates the town of Cabo from the Pacific Ocean.

This incredibly dramatic entrance to Capella Pedregal overlooks a long expanse of beach and the ocean. Guests and residents who want to experience true "Cabo culture" will find the vibrant shops, dining and entertainment of Cabo San Lucas village all within easy reach by foot, bike or resort valet.

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Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa

2011-10-18T13:42:00.000+11:00

Nestled in the world’s oldest rain forest, 65 million years older than the Amazon, and experiencing the world’s oldest culture. Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa projects a sense of exotic remoteness which is belied by the fact that it is located only 90 minutes by car from Cairns and 40 minutes from Port Douglas, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.

Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa has only 15 tranquil rainforest "Bayans" nestled amongst the world's oldest living rainforest... reinforcing the impression of being 'at one with nature', yet still providing all the creature comforts of a boutique retreat.

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Dubrovnik Sun Gardens, Croatia

2011-10-17T10:20:00.000+11:00

Sun Gardens offers a place where you can enjoy all the privileges and facilities of a five-star resort under the Croatian sun and overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

The Radisson Blu Dubrovnik Sun Gardens is one of the first “resort-style” hotels in the region, mixing modern design, kid-friendly activities, a full raft of dining options and sea views at every turn. All this, and a dose of culture is waiting in the historic city center, just 30 minutes away.

The 201 rooms are all about contemporary design, with a Mediterranean palette of beige and turquoise and floor-to-ceiling windows framing the sea outside. All rooms are equipped with top-class amenities and feature an elegant terrace/balcony for taking in the magnificent surrounding views.

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Legends Resort, French Polynesia

2011-10-14T09:37:00.000+11:00

On the island of Moorea in French Polynesia, Legends Resort consists of villas that line a bloom-covered hillside , with views of the surrounding sea. Spread across 17 breathtaking acres, Legends Resort encompasses its own little slice of paradise.

Magnificent individual villas offer a personal haven of tranquility, stylishly furnished with exotic furniture, delicate china, and elegant interior design. Escape to the unparalleled beauty of this luxury hotel, where relaxation isn’t a state of mind – it’s a way of life. Villas reflect a modern and soothing Polynesian aesthetic, with dark, polished wood surfaces and colorful paintings, and each comes with a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious living room and a large outdoor deck with a Jacuzzi.

There are plenty of activities to choose from — snorkeling, tennis, sunset sails — but the sugary sand beach on the resort’s nearby private motu (island) is the real draw.

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The Peninsula, New York

2011-10-12T10:39:00.000+11:00

Few properties say 'five star luxury' quite like The Peninsula. At Fifth Avenue and 55th Street, this 239-room hotel has incredible views of Manhattan from its renowned roof deck. And down below, the city is at your fingertips.

Housed in a beauty of a landmark Beaux Arts building, The Peninsula is the perfect combination of modern accents and old-world charm. The 185 spacious and luxurious guest rooms and 54 suites have recently been refurbished and decorated in a classic, contemporary style. The huge marble bathrooms all have soaking tubs with televisions so you can watch while taking your bubble bath.

The Peninsula also features one of the best and biggest New York hotel health clubs and spas, the rooftop Pen-Top Bar, and a faultless concierge desk.

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Las Balsas, Argentina

2011-10-11T11:41:00.000+11:00

On the northern shore of Nahuel Huapi Lake, is Las Balsas Gourmet Hotel & Spa, a hidden gem in this rugged landscape. With amenities like an upscale restaurant and luxurious spa, plus a well-stocked wine cellar, the 15-room hotel puts guests lakeside with amenities not often found this far off the beaten path.

Las Balsas is an intimate, classic boutique inn with a fantastic restaurant and an enviable wine cellar. Situated in the middle of one of the planet's most ruggedly beautiful landscapes – the Argentine Patagonia, a land of jutting peaks, endless evergreen forests, and idyllic lakes.

Each of the 15 rooms and suites has its own unique style inspired by the surrounding splendor. At the restaurant, local flavors and ingredients feature prominently.

Simple pleasures take on new magic at Las Balsas. Take a romantic stroll through mountain foothills, ride a boat onto Nahuel Huapi Lake, or gaze up at the canopy of stars that seems impossibly close.

Visit Jetsetter for a great deal on this hotel.

Legends, Mauritius

2011-10-10T11:00:00.000+11:00

The five-star Legends is located in the north-west of the beautiful island paradises of Mauritius. Legends is the only feng shui hotel in Mauritius and the Indian Ocean, where the ancient Chinese theory of harmony and wellbeing promises a total sense of peace and serenity.

Legends coils languorously along stunning coves and pristine golden sands where little crabs scuttle and birds twitter in the coconut trees. While this is the picture-perfect island vacation for relaxation, Legends goes one step further.

Each of the six room categories has a different design scheme, with corresponding colours and materials. The rooms range from comfortable and spacious Superior Rooms to the sumptuous Emperor Villa, which features aspects of all the elements and has its own private beach.

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Playa Viva, Mexico

2011-10-07T11:49:00.000+11:00

Playa Viva is an eco-escape of just eight treehouse-like casitas set on a beachfront ecological reserve. It's a special place where you and your family will enjoy the rugged, unspoiled beauty of Mexico in the guilt-free luxury of an environmentally-conscious resort. Be up with the sunrise and heading to bed as it gets dark, with daily yoga classes, a tour of Aztec ruins and a taste of healthy Mexican cuisine in between.

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Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa, United Kingdom

2011-10-06T11:47:00.000+11:00

Entering the forested driveway that leads to Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa, it's hard to believe this historic hotel and spa is less than an hour from central London. Within 123 acres of rolling Surrey parkland and gloriously maintained grounds, it is home to one of the UK’s best spas and unique accommodations.

Wonderfully located between Ascot, Sunningdale and Wentworth and only 45 minutes from the centre of London, Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa offers everything from tennis and unmatchable five-star spa breaks and treatments to its own golf course, fine wines, superb dining and impeccable service.

All of the bedrooms and suites are individually styled and designed so that no two are the same. It is this individuality that sets Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa apart.

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Naladhu, Maldives

2011-10-05T12:37:00.000+11:00

Naladhu is Maldivian for beautiful island – and that’s certainly the case at this intimate resort. A short boat ride from the Male airport, the resort's 19 spacious villas – all overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean – epitomise tropical chic with their stylish interiors and indoor-outdoor design.

Unwind in free-flowing space in the paradise of the Maldives. Dream to a symphony of rolling waves and rustling palms. Plunge into your private infinity-edge pool or surrender to the aroma of an exotic Ayurvedic essential oil. Seek refuge in the familiar cool of hardwood floors and goose-down pillows. Surround yourself with the familiar comforts you know and love. Delight in the surprises of the islands.

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Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay, Turkey

2011-10-04T10:35:00.000+11:00

Nestled on the bluffs overlooking pristine Barbaros Bay, the Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay is a sprawling spa resort in a postcard-perfect setting. Views of the Aegean take center stage, whether through floor-to-ceiling windows in rooms and suites, in some of the six on-site restaurants or from the enormous infinity pool – one of the largest in Turkey. The private beach and 60,000-square-foot Six Senses Spa make this destination for sun-worship and spa time.

Your room at the Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay is comfortable enough to be perfect for cocooning and features all the amenities you expect from the world’s luxury expert, but the experience you will treasure is the unique zen of a perfectly frosted glass of champagne sipped on your walk-out terrace as it seems to float effortlessly on the rays of the sun setting silently into the Aegean.

The 201 square meter Presidential Suites each have their own design language – Asian Flavor or Ottoman Desire, and both feature expansive terraces with al fresco whirlpools, as well as exclusive amenities and private services. Each of the 12 single-bedroom suites is the perfect couples retreat, featuring a large living room, powder room, master bath with jacuzzi, and a bedroom with a balcony or terrace that is the perfect place to greet the day, commanding a panoramic view of the Aegean.

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Huvafen Fushi Maldives

2011-09-30T10:14:00.000+10:00

Huvafen Fushi Maldives is a luxury resort set in its own lagoon offering 43 spacious and sleek bungalows that are an architect's masterpiece. The resort is ideal for honeymooners looking for a romantic get away. The resort features individual plunge pools, on-call personal butler, glass floors in ocean bungalow's and the world's first underwater spa.

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A perfect romantic paradise in Tropical North Queensland

2011-09-29T12:31:00.000+10:00

Misty Mountains Rainforest Retreat is the deluxe destination in Far North Queensland for a tranquil and romance-infused escape, exclusively for couples.

The boutique retreat offers luxurious lodgings, complete privacy and indulgent facilities. Just 40 minutes south of Cairns in the foothills of the famous Misty Mountains, guests are transported to a place where they can breathe in nature’s unique aroma amidst a verdant wonderland of world heritage rainforest and contemporary design.

The boutique-style accommodation: Blue-Lagoon Villa or Studio, offers something for every guest. Imagine, your very own villa set under the canopy of world heritage rainforest, soothing massages by a flowing stream, tropical days by the relaxation pond, a picnic under the stars or late nights in your private Glass Bar & Lounge.

Surrounding your luxury retreat villa is a sprawling swimming lagoon set amongst the lush gardens and rainforest. The stunning Glass Bar – also exclusively yours – features a state-of-the-art bar and lounge and if you’re in the mood for meditation and massage on your romantic getaway, escape to your Think Tank perched above the soothing sound of a flowing stream and surrounded by rain forest.

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Family Friendly – The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa

2011-09-28T10:39:00.000+10:00

Searching for a family friendly resort? Somewhere you and those you love can truly relax on an island with the best beach and enjoy playing in the most beautiful lagoon? Well we have found the resort for you… The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa! Readers of Australia’s leading family travel magazine, Holidays With Kids, have recently voted The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa as a Top 10 family-friendly resort for 2011!

Enjoy the simple pleasures with your family here at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa, where you can feed the fish right at the water's edge, or snorkel straight off the resort's secluded beach in the sparkling blue marine reserve to play with the colourful reef fish. The world-class beach and lagoon are no more than 10 seconds from your doorstep!

Your children Play Free in the Cook Islands' only kids club, the Moko's Kids Club, and parents love it too because children also stay free at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa! Two children aged up to 11 years stay free when sharing a room with up to two adults. And up to 4 children can stay free in the fully self-contained 2 Bedroom Beachside Suites and the Grand Beachfront Suites.

And for even more family fun, Moko's Kids Club kids also receive a great Free Fun Welcome Pack upon arrival at The Rarotongan for your kids in paradise holiday!

Book a 5night stay (or longer) in any category at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa, and receive:

• Kids stay, play and eat free.

• 1 free session per child at the new Banana Beach Playland crèche + Little Dolphins mini waterpark for kids aged under 4.

• $45 per child free Arcade Game Tokens for kids aged 4-16 years.

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Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul, Korea

2011-09-27T09:58:00.000+10:00

Escape from the hectic pace of the city and relax at Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul, amidst serenity and natural beauty. Overlooking Seoul’s picturesque Mt. Namsan, Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul is Banyan Tree’s first combination of urban resort and membership club. With wraparound views of Seoul, the limpid Han River and the lush greenery of Namsan Park, this urban oasis offers a sanctuary for the senses in the heart of one of the world’s most exciting cities.

It combines warmth and traditional Korean hospitality with a mix of Banyan Tree Spa. A myriad of outdoor facilities including a golf driving range, tennis, futsal and outdoor swimming pool, and sophisticated cuisines in any one of the resort’s restaurants and bars. Simply relax with family and friends amidst the serenity, greenery and natural beauty of Mt. Namsan at Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul.

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Wild Frontiers 9-Nt India Toura

2011-09-26T11:23:00.002+10:00

Dreaming of this vibrant, fascinating country? It's closer than you think. In just 10 days the professionals at Wild Frontiers (and their on-the-ground, English-speaking guides) will take you through classic India. Delhi, Agra, Rajasthan, Jaipur and Bundi are all on the itinerary of this whirlwind expedition — as is the crown jewel of any bucket-list trip to India: the Taj Mahal. Although packed with enough authentic experiences to fill a bookshelf full of photo albums, the trip also leaves time for simply taking it all in.

Day 1: Arrival & Tour Old Town

The tour starts in Delhi, India’s capital city. After arrival you’ll go on a guided tour of Old Delhi, including a walk along the main thoroughfare, where shops sell everything from wedding saris and bangles to pots and pans. Quieter alleyways lead to spice markets and ornate townhouses. Enjoy dinner at Karim’s, a famous neighborhood restaurant. Overnight at Claridges Hotel; dinner included.

Day 2: To Agra

After breakfast, an air-conditioned car will take you to Agra (a 5-hour drive). Upon arrival, you’ll tour the riverside Agra Fort, which contains exquisite palaces carved in red sandstone, a perfect counterpoint to the white marble of the Taj Mahal — which you will visit at sunset when the stone turns a delicate pink. Overnight at Trident Hotel; breakfast included.

Day 3: Fatehpur Sikri

On Day 3, visit the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, built by a great Mughal emperor. Visit the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, built by the great Mughal emperor Akbar as his capital in 1571 but abandoned just 14 years later because of water shortages. After the tour, board a train to Gangapur, the closest city to storybook Ramathra Fort, deep in the countryside. Owners Ravi and Gitanjali Rajpal will act as your hosts for two nights, and all meals except one are included; choose from mild meat and vegetable curries, rice, local breads and puddings made from secret family recipes. Overnight at Ramathra Fort; breakfast and dinner included.

Day 4: Ramathra Fort

The Ramathra Fort creates an air of intimacy and comfort, so sleep in a bit in your airy suite in the lovingly restored main building, then join the party for breakfast. Your hosts will organize a guided village walk, a rare chance to see how daily life in India is lived. The afternoon is spent on a boat ride on the lake, where you could spot colorful birds. Overnight at Ramathra Fort; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 5: To Rajasthan

An air-conditioned car will transfer you to Jaipur, capital of Rajasthan, where the old sandstone buildings turn to pink as the sun sets (earning the nickname “Pink City”). After the 4-hour journey, stretch your legs during a guided tour of the bazaars and the Palace of Winds (which has 953 intricately carved stone windows) and the 18th-century observatory. You will spend 2 nights at Samode Haveli, the former townhouse of the princely Samode family. It oozes charm and character with frescoes, pretty courtyards and a peaceful garden — a sanctuary from the busy city streets.Overnight at Samode Haveli; breakfast included.

Day 6: Balloon Ride in Jaipur

The highlight might well be the balloon ride you’ll take today, during which you’ll get bird's-eye views of the 16th-century fort at Amber, outside Jaipur (you can choose to ride to the launch point via elephant, which only adds to the experience). The entire city will spread out before you, offering the photo opportunity of a lifetime. Afterward, head to the markets to partake in some of Jaipur’s renowned shopping. Bargain hard for cashmere shawls and handmade rugs. Overnight at Samode Haveli; breakfast included.

Day 7: To Bundi

It's a 5-hour drive south through hilly countryside to Bundi (my favorite town in all of Rajasthan). It’s like visiting Jaipur a century ago: Every house is painted blue, and the town spreads out from a vast palace mirrored in a lake. During a guided walk, take in the quiet city streets, which are full of interesting shops, from silversmiths to banglemakers, and welcoming cafés. You will stay in a restored haveli mansion built against the fort walls. The owners here know exactly what Westerners like: kingsize beds, powerful showers, WiFi access and rooftop dining. Overnight at Bundi Vilas; breakfast included.

Day 8: Tour the Royal Palace

After breakfast, embark on a tour of Bundi’s royal palace, which contains some of the finest murals in India: processions of hundreds of horses and riders, each with a different face; amusing scenes from courtly life; and trees, flowers and wading birds. Afterward, visit a local family to learn the secrets of Indian cooking and see the lakeside palace where Rudyard Kipling once stayed. Then, enjoy some free time to explore the bazaars; ask your guide to direct you to the studio of Gopal Soni, a miniature painter, who uses squirrel-hair brushes to make copies of the palace paintings on paper. Overnight at Bundi Vilas; breakfast included.

Day 9: Back to Delhi

Board the train bound to Delhi on the main line and transfer to Claridges Hotel for your final night. If you have time, visit the government-run Central Cottage Industries Emporium — a short taxi ride from the hotel — where you can pick up inexpensive shawls, wood carvings and miniature paintings bought direct from the artisan makers. Overnight at Claridges Hotel; breakfast included.

Day 10: Departure

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Gran Hotel Son Net, Spain

2011-09-23T12:07:00.000+10:00

Gran Hotel Son Net is an exquisite luxury Mallorcan Estate, a breathtaking historical mansion dating back to the 17th century, which has been lovingly restored into an elegant sanctuary amid the rugged Sierra Tramuntana Mountains.

Each of the 31 rooms and suites has its own style and color scheme – from red toile to understated hues of cream and black. Accessories include period antiques, grand mirrors, fireplaces and marble bathrooms the size of a New York apartment. For the best view, opt for the top-floor Deluxe Rooms, which capture panoramic vistas of the rolling countryside and hotel gardens.

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Le Rêve Hotel & Spa, Mexico

2011-09-22T12:11:00.000+10:00

Le Rêve Hotel & Spa is a beachfront boutique property hidden in the jungle 45 minutes south of Cancun. The 25 unique rooms offer quiet comfort, stunning views, privacy, in one of Mexico’s best hotels.

Le Rêve Hotel & Spa's white sand beach has seductively temperate, blue Caribbean waters where gentle breezes refresh and swaying palm trees dance in a relaxing tropical rhythm. Le Rêve's hospitality will exceed your expectations and make your stay as peacefully romantic as you ever imagined.

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Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa

2011-09-21T10:26:00.002+10:00

Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa is delighted to be featured on the latest cover of the prestigious US travel magazine, ISLANDS, following on from having been listed by ISLANDS as one of the World’s 12 Best Private Islands.

From Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa guests enjoy the best views on earth of the world’s mMost beautiful lagoon, and now there’s an even more beautiful way to soak up these bucket list views – our new bungalow category!

They are proud to be launching the superb new bungalow category at Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa – the NEW PREMIUM BEACHFRONT BUNGALOWS! Brand new and located directly facing the champagne sands of Sunset Beach with magnificent views over Aitutaki Lagoon – the best views in Aitutaki!

Under the cool shade of coconut palms, the 9 Premium Beachfront Bungalows feature a fabulous outdoor shower and a Californian super king size bed affording an uninterrupted vista out across the spectacular lagoon. Other features include cable TV/DVD player, radio alarm clock, refrigerator, coffee/tea making facilities, cool waffle-cotton bathrobes, and private verandah with sunloungers.

Close to the Bungalows are hammocks strung under the palms right beside the serene lagoon, the ultimate in relaxation. The most romantic beachfront bungalows in the South Pacific.

The sublime Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa is the ONLY resort located directly on the world’s most beautiful lagoon, Aitutaki, one of the must-see places to see before you die. Here you will also discover beaches, million-dollar lagoon views, exclusive Overwater Bungalows (unique to the Cooks), the sumptuous Royal Honeymoon Pool Villa and the Oneroa Beach Chapel plus three ‘Lagoon of Love’ wedding packages. Here you can truly live the South Seas romance of your dreams. Aitutaki. Heaven sent.

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The Balé, Bali

2011-09-19T10:10:00.000+10:00

The Balé is a luxurious 29-pavilion retreat dedicated to revitalizing your soul. Relaxation and decompression come easy here, especially at the Spa, where world-class yoga teachers share space with renowned healers. Each pavilion has their own private swimming pool and modern, fashionable interiors, The Balé offers you the chance to relax and revitalize in style. Stroll through peaceful white − walled courtyards and past refreshing water pools, indulge in the unique collection of holistic spa treatments and well-being programs and dine on the freshest organic produce.

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Jetsetter Homes

2011-09-16T11:26:00.003+10:00

Jetsetter is expanding beyond its core hotel business into offering vacation homes of all sizes around the world. Jetsetter Homes consists of more than 200 hand-selected, verified homes.

Each of the homes have been checked out by one of Jetsetter's correspondents, so you can expect the same exacting standards you find with Jetsetter hotels.Check out some of the homes on offer…

La Bagatelle, St Lucia – Embedded in a lush tropical mountainside, La Bagatelle feels like a luxurious treehouse. Open on almost all sides, the two-bedroom aerie provides a stunning bird’s-eye view of the cone-shaped peaks of St. Lucia’s dramatic twin Pitons. Framed by broad palms, vivid tropical blooms and bamboo, the villa’s ingenious open-air design blends effortlessly with its spectacular surroundings.
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Villa Kubu, Bali – Villa Kubu spreads out over seemingly endless space. The modernist mansion spans 7,500 square feet, with sleek, unbroken lines and floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Outside, the views over the Indian Ocean extend as far as the eye can see from the cascading edge of the 27-foot infinity pool. The villa’s décor cleverly uses repetition and reflection to add to the immeasurable impression of the house. The real secret to the vast feel of Kubu, though, is the ocean view from every room.
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Stargazer, Turks and Caicos Islands – On a secluded half-mile stretch of shoreline west of Grace Bay Beach, Stargazer is straight out of MTV’s Cribs. The sprawling three-building property houses a full-size ballet studio, turtle-filled grotto and private movie theater, garden-filled grounds, a tennis court and a dramatic infinity pool, a sauna and so much more. There are also all the normal things you'd expect to find in a vacation home: an airy great room, with vaulted ceilings and wicker and rattan furnishings; an elegant dining room for ten, with ocean views; and six bedrooms spread among the main house and outbuildings. And despite the priceless collectibles and extravagant chef-prepared meals, the place has a comfortable, lived-in vibe.
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Grand Hotel di Como, Italy

2011-09-15T11:09:00.000+10:00

In a large park on the shores of Italy’s most beautiful lake, the Grand Hotel di Como delivers modern ambience and some of the best beds in town. The 153 rooms and suites are spacious and airy, done up with bright colors and an eclectic art collection. But it is the grounds here that really shine. Filled with indigenous trees and flowers, they are home to an alfresco restaurant and a wonderful swimming pool with killer mountain views.

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The Springs Resort & Spa, Costa Rica

2011-09-14T13:24:00.000+10:00

Rising from the tropical rain forest that skirts the lava-streaked cone of Arenal Volcano, The Springs Resort & Spa has postcard-perfect views across the spectacular Costa Rican countryside. With its wonderful architecture, five-star staff and hot springs flowing through the on-site gardens, this isolated resort offers everything for a romantic escape or festive family vacation.

With a spectacular view of the Arenal Volcano, natural hot and cold springs, four unique dining experiences, and an impressive full service Spa, The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal promises to overwhelm you in every aspect of quality, service and design.

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Palazzo Viviani, Italy

2011-09-13T12:31:00.002+10:00

Atop a hill on the border between Italy’s Romagna and Marche regions sits Palazzo Viviani Castello di Montegridolfo, a lovingly restored medieval castle that has been converted into a romantic hotel. The palazzo has an impressive artistic pedigree and the 54 suites within its 14th-century wheat-gold walls range from lush medievalism to dark wood minimalism. Experience the striking views — order a sundown Negroni and watch the sky blush pink over the Adriatic.

The hotel’s 54 rooms are spread out among different buildings within the castle walls. Palazzo Viviani, the main body of the hotel, houses the grandest suites as well as a bar, reception rooms and one of the property's four restaurants. Flagstone floors, heavy damask curtains and antiques are the order of the day here, with the ancient walls painted in faded yellows and greens.

Visit Jetsetter for a great deal on this hotel.

Casa de Las Olas, Mexico

2011-09-12T15:24:00.000+10:00

A vacation at this waterfront spot is equal parts romance and relaxation. With only five rooms, the intimate Casa de las Olas is all ocean, sand and sun. Many of the studios and suites have full kitchens, so after days spent on the beach you can spend your nights staying in and dining on your oceanfront balcony or at the restaurant down the road (there’s no menu and only nine tables).

Every detail at Casa de las Olas will lead you to a perfect vacation in Tulum, Mexico. The exquisite oceanfront accommodations will ignite the senses. Awaken to sunlight filtering through the sheer curtains of your canopy bed, your skin tickled by ocean breezes.

Enjoy the fragrance of fresh flowers, the whisper of waves outside and the taste of mouthwatering fresh fruit. Private ocean-view balconies, four post beds, crisp, white linens, rustic hand-painted tile, tropical hardwood beam ceilings and a fusion of Mexican and Indonesian furnishings create a luxurious, comfortable and welcoming ambiance.

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The Chanler at Cliff Walk, Rhode Island

2011-09-07T16:18:00.000+10:00

A historic, luxury, European-styled boutique hotel, The Chanler boasts the best ocean view in Newport, Rhode Island. This oceanfront New England luxury hotel is only steps from Easton's Beach and a mile from downtown Newport. Offering discerning travelers a glimpse of Newport's Golden Age, it is the first historic mansion and only hotel located on the famous Cliff Walk of Newport, Rhode Island.

The Chanler offers twenty exquisitely appointed guest rooms, each with its own historically inspired decor. Dining options include the romantic Spiced Pear restaurant for award-winning fine dining in New England and the ocean-side outdoor Terrace restaurant, for a casual oceanfront Newport restaurant.

From its world class views with manicured gardens and lawns to opulent accommodations and award-winning restaurant, The Chanler at Cliff Walk provides an unparalleled romantic hideaway, the premier Newport wedding location for up to 200, and a place where small meetings and events are always done in historic fashion.

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Macakizi Hotel, Turkey

2011-09-06T10:27:00.000+10:00

Maca Kizi means Queen of Spades in Turkish, and this Bodrum hotel shimmers like a waterside palace, making guests feel like 21st-century royalty. All three parts of the resort — a hotel, a world-class restaurant and a hip-happening beach club — recline on the side of a hill covered with hot-pink bougainvillea and white-hot sunlight. The beautiful people come here, but so can everyone else.

The quiet rooms and suites are at the top of the hill, and a small maze of flower-decked paths takes you to the open-air restaurant (where the complimentary breakfast includes omelets made to order) and the beach with its large bar and various sunbathing and swimming piers. En route you’ll pass the lovely, underused pool, the well-attended Turkish bath and a small gym.

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Travel Made Travel-sized

2011-08-30T09:23:00.000+10:00

The new Jetsetter iPhone app is an exclusive collection of trips you can't afford to miss, experienced through high definition photography and insider reviews. Book immediately at members-only rates, wherever you are.

Search and discover hundreds of the world's greatest vacations, handpicked for you by experts who've been there.

Tap-and-go booking means all you have to do is pick your dates to get the members-only rates. You'll be on your way in no time.

Jetsetter's correspondents visit every property and report back with what you need to know, so you can book in confidence.

Visit iTunes to download the Jetsetter app.

Le St-Martin Hotel & Suites, Canada

2011-08-29T11:30:00.000+10:00

The new Le St-Martin Hotel puts guests elegantly in the heart of it all at the corner of De Maisonneuve Boulevard, where stylish passers-by walk to the boutiques on Rue Ste-Catherine or the museums of Vieux-Montréal. With 123 sleek rooms dressed in rich, dark tones and a restaurant that serves inventive Mediterranean cuisine, the hotel’s 17 floors rise above a backdrop of sparkling city lights, with views of Mont Royal.

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Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Italy

2011-08-25T10:37:00.000+10:00

Set on a magnificent spot on Lake Como, with commanding views of the town of Bellagio, the glamorous five-star Grand Hotel Tremezzo truly lives up to its name. This stunning Art Nouveau palace that for a century has served as a retreat for Europe’s elite, is still one of the most popular destinations in all of Italy.

One hundred windows reflecting the blue of the water and the lush greenery of the gardens: all rooms offer Guests an extraordinary spectacle. All 90 rooms and suites are decorated in pastel yellows, blues and greens and richly furnished with sumptuous fabrics, period furniture and antique paintings and prints.

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Cap Juluca, Anguilla

2011-08-22T11:01:00.001+10:00

Cap Juluca delivers the classic Caribbean getaway: romance and comfort with warm service, tasty food, spacious rooms and the prettiest beach on Maundays Bay. Here, it's hard to think about doing much besides lounging on the two-mile beach, but this 179-acre resort offers plenty of activities, from morning yoga to waterskiing lessons to an aqua-golf driving range.

Located along the intimate crescent of Maundays Bay on the exclusive island of Anguilla, Cap Juluca’s Greco-Moorish architecture is as timeless as the sea itself. And thanks to a $28-million renovation, Cap Juluca is tailored to today’s travelers and seekers of solace, yet focused on improving your overall resort experience.

The guestrooms all now feature luxurious new Stearns and Foster beds and Frette linens, 40” Sony Bravia HDTVs and DVD players, Bose Wave stereos with iPod docking stations, free wireless internet as well as enhanced patio furniture, new towels and new robes. The world famous powdery white sand beaches have been enhanced with the addition of fashionable custom made chaise lounges.

At Cap Juluca, come to a place where sand, wind and water blend seamlessly with world-class dining and the friendliest most welcoming people of the Caribbean. The next time you seek the sun, let Cap Juluca’s genuine staff create for you a timeless memory.

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Honeymoon Hideaways Offers The World's Most Intimate Honeymoon Destinations

2011-08-19T11:19:00.000+10:00

Gorgeous groom? Check. Stunning wedding gown? Check. Wedding planner on the case? Check. Perfect honeymoon booked? Need a little inspiration? Now you can discover the world’s most beautiful hidden honeymoon destinations and properties at a brand new Australian website Honeymoon Hideaways.

Founded by travel industry veteran Sally Vardy, Honeymoon Hideaways is passionate about matching newlyweds’ interests and desires to their perfect honeymoon destination. There are currently 38 exclusive properties featured on the site to choose from, with 20 more to come in the near future. With a range of options for every budget, all properties featured are unique in their own ways, and Sally, who has visited each one personally, can provide extra information to ensure every element of your honeymoon caters for your heart’s desire.

The site’s stunning photography provides the ideal starting point to dream and plan your perfect escape. Destinations include the eclectic barefoot luxury eco-resort at Ratua Private Island resort in Vanuatu, the turquoise lagoons, tropical forest, and white sand beaches of Fiji’s most exclusive hideaway, Laucaula Island, a luxury safari experience at Londolozi Private Game Reserve in South Africa, and the Caribbean’s mesmerising beachfront Jade Mountain sanctuary.

“I love getting to know each and every one of my clients’ interests, and then finding the ideal paradise for them to celebrate their first days and weeks of marriage uninterrupted,“ reveals Sally. Newlyweds can draw on her 16 years of travel industry expertise to get access to insider knowledge and contacts to create a special experience. “After the stress of planning a wedding, couples deserve time to relax and spend uninterrupted quality time with each other, to celebrate. This is their time to unwind and enjoy these precious moments before starting their lives together as a married couple.”

To provide a more personal approach to choosing your honeymoon, a blog gives Sally’s detailed insider information and stories of key properties, while the ‘Experiences’ section offers real life stories from clients, including their budget and all inclusions.

Sally’s inspiration for the site came when visiting the world’s most exotic locations. After passing on this insider knowledge she found her clients were overwhelmed by the hidden paradises she had discovered for them.

“It struck me that people don’t really know what’s out there, and therefore revert to the usual textbook honeymooner’s holidays,” Sally explains. “These are lovely, but every honeymoon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience – you want it to be extraordinary.”

Because Sally has personally vetted every experience listed on the website for honeymooners, through the site, travellers can take advantage of Sally’s special access to VIP status, exclusive rates, upgrades, added extras and special amenities at each destination. Sally’s intimate knowledge of each property and her ability to work to each client’s budget allows her to give each couple the best value for their honeymoon.

Honeymoon Hideaways can also use their valuable resources and contacts to assist in making destination wedding arrangements, whether for an intimate ceremony on a remote tropical island or a large reception at a five-star resort with music and entertainment. Sally’s personal experience of every property makes her indispensable when looking to choose the right venue for your big day. A clever Gift Registry service allows your wedding guests to contribute towards the honeymoon of your dreams as their wedding gift to you.

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Petra Hotel & Suites, Greece

2011-08-16T12:03:00.000+10:00

A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the intimate Petra Hotel & Suites offers a lifetime experience on Patmos island, enchanting guests who expect the highest standards of hospitality and personalised service from an authentic Greek islands boutique hotel.

With just 12 rooms and suites forming a miniature village in traditional island architecture, the Petra hotel has earned a place among the leading luxury boutique hotels in Greece, as well as honorable mentions and shining reviews from international publications, including a 2010 Finalist Award for Most Outstanding Service.

A place ideal for visitors who seek a relaxing holiday on an intimately authentic Greek island, Patmos' beauty has been praised in a cover story by the New York Times' T Magazine, while its main settlement of Chora, an architectural marvel of white-washed houses and narrow streets, is prominent among UNESCO's World Heritage sites.

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Koro Sun Resort, Fiji

2011-08-15T10:06:00.000+10:00

Koro Sun Resort's unspoiled location offers you the genuine warmth and friendliness of the Fijian people, beautiful lush tropical surroundings, and warm, impossibly clear waters.

In a remote setting that defines paradise, Koro Sun Resort & Rainforest Spa immerses you in a genuine Fijian experience that’s nirvana to the core. This 160-acre sanctuary was born of a nature lover’s dream. The tropical retreat is etched within a coconut plantation that’s encircled by lush rainforests at the edge of a stunning private lagoon.

From the moment you arrive, the Koro Sun Resort staff embraces you like family. They greet you with a song that welcomes you to your home away from home. Certainly, the Fijians are known around the globe for being the most warm and friendly islands on earth.

The 29 private bures and villas are spacious, individually appointed decor and fully air-conditioned. Your stay is all-inclusive – from airport transfers to bountiful gourmet fare and a flurry of non-motorized water sport activities.

Spend your day lazing on the daybeds at the waters edge, exploring the offshore reef with the PADI certified crew, fine-tuning your putting on the nine-hole pitch and put rainforest golf course or indulging in a banana leaf body wrap or coconut oil massage in the enchanting Rainforest Spa. Explore Lotu Island Cave with Manu, tour botanical gardens with Leba or hike with Jone to a tumbling waterfall where you can splash in the cool pools beneath.

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Fairmont Monte Carlo, Monaco

2011-08-12T10:46:00.000+10:00

From its impressive architecture to its storied past, everything about the Fairmont Monte Carlo is larger than life. Add to that the stunning views of the Riviera, an in-house casino and culinary delights served at the famed L’Argentin restaurant, and you’ve got a recipe for true joie de vivre in one of the most exclusive destinations in the world.

The Fairmont Monte Carlo hotel is a unique four-star luxury convention resort located in the heart of the Principality of Monaco in between the Mediterranean Sea and the legendary Casino of Monte Carlo. The hotel is one of the largest in Europe with its 602 guest rooms, residences and suites, two restaurants, a bar, 18 meeting rooms, and a new pool space on the roof rethought to integrate a contemporary touch.

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The Pavilions, Phuket, Thailand

2011-08-03T10:00:00.000+10:00

The Pavilions are some of Phuket’s most romantic hilltop retreatsthanks to sublime panoramic Andaman Sea views and the island’s most discreet staff. The resort have a brand new collection of 25 spacious, private, luxury ‘Plantation’ pool villas all with private spa room to complement the resort’s existing 21 ocean view pool villas. Exclusivity and romance are the key features of this chic boutique resort. The resort also boasts two fantastic restaurants with sea views and welcomes guests of sixteen years and over.

Arrival at your villa at The Pavilions is one of life’s delights. Step through the luxuriant gardens to a home designed to delight the senses. You’ll find an airy Asian design with elegant touches of Europe. Indulge in the extraordinary space… revel in this precious time together.

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A guide to Vegas

2011-07-28T10:20:00.000+10:00

SMH has given us the run down of Las Vegas, from where to stay, eat, shop and what to do…

Stay
The cheapest digs are usually found Downtown, and the Golden Nugget (from $US47) is the best of the bunch. The rooms aren't swish but they're by no means shabby.

If you're after a good all-round resort at a reasonable price but want something that stands out, Mandalay Bay ($US89) has the best pool in Vegas. The recent revamp at the Tropicana ($US78) has worked wonders, too — and the bright, beachy vibe makes the rooms distinctive. Top value for money comes at the Signature at MGM Grand. They're stylish and most have balconies to go with the kitchenettes and in-bathroom TVs.

Vdara (from $US157) gets it right as a couples' retreat in a prime central location. It's still a giant hotel but there's a quieter air, the spa is impressive and the beds are extraordinarily comfortable. THEhotel at Mandalay Bay ($US192) has lovely suite-like standard rooms plus the warm feel of a luxury city hotel rather than a mass-herd resort.

The MGM Skylofts (from $US1014) are quite something. Just about everything can be controlled electronically, butlers are on hand and the two-bedroom suites have pool tables. The Bellagio has a genuine air of class, and the floral displays are astonishing. The $US190-plus standard rooms are great but true high-rollers go for the $US7000-a-night, two-bedroom suites with butler service, cigar-tasting classes, yoga and in-room waterfalls.

Shop

Vegas is a city where malls defiantly rule the roost. For those who have won big, Crystals, in the City Centre complex offers the likes of Mikimoto, Kiki De Montparnasse, Prada, Gucci and Tiffany. Bargain hunters should try the Las Vegas Premium Outlets where big names sell old stock on the cheap.

Nightclubs
Marquee at the Cosmopolitan is the latest hot joint in town. Expect long queues, a mazy interior and a heaving dance floor where the visual displays complement the DJ sets. XS at Encore is probably the sexiest, most decadent club in town, although only the truly good-looking tend to get away with jumping into the in-club pools.

See + Do

Vegas is crammed full of absurd sights — many of them tacky as hell and many of them free to gawp at. The dancing fountains outside the Bellagio are probably the most graceful of the showpieces. They go off every 15 minutes to a different piece of music after 8pm.

The shows are the biggest non-gambling drawcard and those by Cirque du Soleil are the hottest tickets. General consensus has Ka at the MGM Grand being their best production but the aquatic acrobatics of O at the Bellagio are mesmerising, too. For other shows, visit one of the Tix4Tonight stands, because they often have good discounts available.

Eat + Drink

Joel Robuchon has more Michelin stars than any other chef in the world and his L'Atalier de Joel Robuchon restaurant at the MGM Grand is generally seen as the high-roller foodie benchmark in Vegas. Picasso at Bellagio is a relative stalwart but the original Picasso paintings on the wall, dancing fountain views and Julian Serrano's miracles on the menu make it special. For a taste of new Vegas, try the dark-lit and sexy Sage at Aria. Shawn McClain's signature menu, with wine or beer pairing, should have you purring contentedly for days.

Visit Visit Las Vegas for further information.

Adare Manor Hotel, Ireland

2011-07-27T13:17:00.000+10:00

One of Europe’s grandest resort hotels, Adare Manor represents the best of everything about Ireland: centuries of history, architectural opulence, authentic cuisine, ancient ruins, world class golf, every imaginable sporting activity, an indulgent spa and, of course, the famous Irish hospitality at every turn. Between the town of Adare and the resort, this is truly Ireland in microcosm, and there is little need to go anyplace else to enjoy a luxurious taste of the Emerald Isle.

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Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa, Maldives

2011-07-26T11:18:00.003+10:00

Located in the Maldives’ South Malé Atoll, a short speedboat ride from the main airport, the 110-villa Anantara Dhigu Resort is that rare Maldivian retreat that offers a sun-drenched tropical escape, plus enough outdoor pursuits to keep active types entertained. Choose from diving, sailing, snorkeling and surfing in the crystal-clear Indian Ocean, or find a quiet spot to lounge in an overwater villa, by the infinity-edge pool or on Dhigu’s powder-white beach.

Anantara Dhigu’s evocative location is matched by a tranquil island design approach that feels like home away from home while providing you with excellent facilities. Play tennis, hit the gym and swim in the infinity edge pool, or simply unwind at Anantara Spa with a range of renowned signature treatments. Discover your own paradise at Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa.

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The Sands at Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos Islands

2011-07-25T12:03:00.000+10:00

Just a 90-minute flight from Miami, Turks and Caicos is one of the Caribbean’s more under-the-radar archipelagos and a favorite destination for the rich and famous in search of a discreet escape. On Providenciales, The Sands at Grace Bay resort fronts spectacular Grace Bay Beach – renowned for its 12 miles of powder-white sand — with renovated plantation–style studios and suites. Here, days are spent on the beach, in the calm Caribbean Sea or simply lounging in the hammock-filled coconut groves.

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Havana San Antonio Riverwalk, Texas

2011-07-22T09:55:00.002+10:00

This historic hotel came off a head-to-toe makeover in 2010. The distinctive property, originally built in 1914, has been reinterpreted in a bold, eclectic style, mixing Cuban, Victorian and modern elements. And an enviable setting — on the quiet, recently extended northern stretch of the San Antonio River Walk — makes it a handy base for exploring notable museums, restaurants and shops.

From the studios to the Penthouse Suite, each of the 27 rooms at Havana is uniquely appointed and designed for comfort. All rooms feature original Bastrop pine floors and are decorated with antique furniture, Turkish rugs and vintage Cuban artwork with an emphasis on creating elegant but uncluttered space for a restful stay. Each room comes equipped with the signature mini bar featuring local and international snacks, drinks and souvenirs.

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