On your next visit to London explore the legendary market at Harrods. Grab a picnic to go and retire to Hyde Park, where British artists (think Damien Hirst) have been commissioned to design the lawn chairs next to The Serpentine.
May 6th, 2008
“Let’s go surfin’ now / Everybody’s learning how / Come on and safari with me…”
The words of The Beach Boys still ring true today as travelers continue to flock to the water’s edge at some of the finest beach properties for their own surfing adventures and choose from a variety of tutorials to learn how to hang ten in style. So come on and trade the snow suit for a wet suit and jet-set to warm weather in search of the perfect wave. (more…)
May 6th, 2008
With the economy dominating the headlines and the dollar taking some hits, one might not considering traveling to far off places. However, if one looks hard enough, there are still deals to be had and areas in which the dollar has buying power, and the truth lies in the numbers. For example, while a four-night, all-inclusive retreat at The Golden Door in California costs $4,725, in Bali at the COMO Shambhala Estate at Begawan Giri a five-night, all-inclusive wellness program will cost around $2,100. For city deals, head to Saigon, where a room at the mod Park Hyatt Saigon starts at $265 per night, compared to a room at New York’s Bowery Hotel which starts at $495 per night. So look no further for ten reasons to think again and jet set – or cruise – to some super savings in all regions of the world this summer. (more…)
May 6th, 2008
In time for the Olympic Games, Park Hyatt Beijing opens as the first Park Hyatt in Greater China. The 237 guestrooms occupy floors 37-49 of the tallest skyscraper in Beiijng on Chang’an Avenue, and coming soon is the six floor “lifestyle” complex designed by SuperPotato that connects the three towers of the Beijing Yintai Centre.
Update: After a soft opening in time for the Olympics, the hotel will unveil its final look later this fall.
May 6th, 2008
ESPA’s new collection of potent potions, called Super Actives, will debut this spring to combat serious skin conditions using natural ingredients and no “nasties” (think synthetics, parabens, and chemicals that damage skin).
May 6th, 2008
Now available for rent at Parrot Cay in Turks & Caicos are the resort’s palatial villas – Rocky Point, The Sanctuary (decorated by designer Donna Karan), and The Residence. If owning a house is a more attractive proposition than playing make-believe for a week, brand new beachfront villas are up for sale, with each featuring a private, infinity-edged pool and individual butler service. Prices begin at $9 million for the 3-bedroom villas and $11 million for the 4-bedroom homes. You know you’re worth it.
May 6th, 2008
Walk like a Masai in the Swiss Alps this year, with new walking tours at Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa that employ techniques gleaned from these nomadic tribesmen of Kenya.
May 6th, 2008
ESPA has opened shop at two Ritz-Carltons: ESPA at The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt, Ireland, featuring a dramatic Swarovski-lit pool, and ESPA at The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow, a city escape situated by The Kremlin and Red Square and especially suited for business travelers. (more…)
May 6th, 2008
Thailand’s annual King’s Cup Elephant Polo tournament has just capped off its seventh year as the main fundraiser for Anantara Resorts’ Asian elephant conservation efforts. So far the tournament, held each year at Anantara Golden Triangle, has raised over $200,000 USD to provide protection and support for the embattled Thai elephant population.
May 6th, 2008
Tired of slipping in the middle of downward-facing dog? Pick up one of COMO Shambhala’s eco-friendly yoga mats, made entirely from natural plant-based materials and totally PVC free. For easy cleaning, pop them in the washer, set it to cool, and air dry – think offsetting your carbon footprint. And FYI: we hear it’s the must have accessory for COMO Shambhala’s exclusive yoga retreats. $118.
May 6th, 2008
Race in the Covered Bridges Half-Marathon at the beginning of June and stay at The Woodstock Inn – not only does The Inn purchase extra tickets that are made available after the popular race sells out, it also hosts a carb-loading dinner the night before.