March 31st, 2011
Caribbean
Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos
What: Bring the family and rent one of Parrot Cay’s airy beach villas. The one-, two-, and three- bedroom villas each have a pool and are just a few steps away from the pristine white sand. For a little indulgence, try the Tamarind Villa – the newest property in the Parrot Cay Estates section comprises two complexes – one with three bedrooms and one with two bedrooms – that can be rented together or separately. When renting separately, rental includes butler service and other standard amenities. When renting as a whole unit, the estate will include two butlers, standard amenities, a gym, and a private chef. Both houses have a private deck and pool.
Why: The Caribbean is often thought of as a winter destination, which is what makes it such a secret gem in the summer. While the beach is never crowded, in the summer the resort is even more peaceful than usual and rates are at their lowest – plus from June through October, kids eat free!
Camp/Activities: Adults can partake in daily yoga and Pilates and relax at the COMO Shambhala Retreat while kids can take part in activities like treasure hunts and making shark tooth necklaces.
Rates: From June 1-October 31, 2011:
One-bedroom Beach Villa: $3,146
Two-bedroom Beach Villa: $4,114
COMO Beach Villa (three-bedroom): $4,840
Tamarind: Main House/3 Bedrooms – US$12,100 inclusive of tax (for all seasons)
Guest House/2 Bedrooms – US$6,050 inclusive of tax (for all seasons)
GoldenEye Hotel & Resort, Jamaica
What: Vacation like James Bond and rent out Ian Fleming’s villa (or a beach cottage just down the way). The Fleming Villa, where Ian Fleming wrote all of the James Bond books, can accommodate up to 10 people in its original three-bedroom home plus two new poolside cottages, with luxe amenities like a private swimming pool, media room and bar, sunken garden, and direct access to the private Fleming Beach. For a smaller group, consider the barefoot-chic one- and two-bedroom Beach Cottages, situated on Low Cay Beach, that open directly onto the sand.
Why: Who’s cooler than James Bond? Jet ski through the beautiful Caribbean waters pretending to be in the cast of Dr. No, or just relax at the newly opened Bizot Bar and sip a cool Red Stripe in the sun.
Camp/Activities: Jamaican Olympic triathlete Iona Wynter leads the fitness program so guests can stay in shape with activities such as Cardio Kayaking or Stretch and Snorkel sessions. Kiddies can carve coconuts, learn to fish, or stay up to stargaze with Brian, resident astronomy buff.
Rates: May 1-October 31, 2011:
One-bedroom beach cottage: $780
Two-bedroom beach cottage: $960
Fleming Villa: $4,400
Jakes, Jamaica
What: Relax in the quiet seaside town of Treasure Beach in one of Jakes’ island-chic private villas. The three villas – Calabash Bay Villa and Cottage, Hope House, and Cave Canum – are all close to Jakes and guests have all the benefits of the resort (such as the Driftwood Spa and Dougie’s Bar). The villas each have a private pool, although they’re so close to the ocean the pools might be overlooked, and come with a housekeeper and private chef.
Why: With all the benefits of a hotel but the privacy of your own house, these villas are perfect for a family vacation: the little waves lap up just feet from the house, nanny service is available, and they’ll even stock the fridge upon request so you can try your hand at jerk chicken, or maybe just some corn flakes.
Camp/Activities: Kiddies can run down to Jakes and take part in daily activities such as cooking classes and mosaic tile workshops, and the whole family can enjoy one of Jakes’ monthly moonlit farm dinners made with all local produce and set outside on a farm.
Rates: Rates start at $500 per night.
U.S.
The Cottages at the Boat Basin, Nantucket
What: The ideal rental for a traditionalist, these quintessentially New England one-, two-, and three-bedroom cottages all feature a full kitchen, dining area, living area, and many have a private deck.
Why: The Cottages are steps away from downtown, great for walking and avoiding that infamous Nantucket traffic. Also, if a family trip just isn’t the same without Fido, stay at one of the WOOF Cottages where man’s best friend is treated to dog beds, toys, and a list of pet-friendly spots on the island. (Keep an eye out for Forrest, the Cottage’s new black lab puppy and mascot!)
Camp/Activities: Borrow bikes and pedal around to see the beaches, bogs, and legions of grey shingled houses. Guests at The Cottages also have access to sister hotel’s White Elephant Spa, so one can get a Maritime Seaweed Body Revitalization after a day at the beach.
Rates: With the Hot Dates/Cool Rates promotion…
May: $185: May 1-5, 8-12, 15-18
$235: May 22-26, 30-31
June : $235: June 1-2, 5-8, 13-16
July : $405: July 7, 10-14, 17-21
August: $410: August 28-31
White Elephant Hotel Residences, Nantucket
What: Rentals with all the comforts of a hotel located right on the edge of Nantucket Town. The one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences are great for families of all shapes and sizes, ranging from 750 to 1,525 square feet. Designed in classic Nantucket style with a sleek, modern tilt, each residence features a flat screen TV, sub-zero refrigerator, and Pratesi by Rivolta Carmignani linens on the four poster beds. With all the space, grandparents and grandchildren are welcome to experience a pampered Nantucket!
Why: A great place to avoid traffic while still being close to Nantucket Harbor, Jetties Beach, Brant Point Lighthouse, along with all the stores in town. In case cooking at home seems daunting, take advantage of priority reservations at Brant Point Grill.
Camp/Activities: A day at the beach couldn’t be easier, with beach towels, chairs, and towels provided by the White Elephant and being within walking distance of Children’s Beach (a harbor beach with no waves). If lounging by a pool is more your style, the Residences have a beautiful private pool complete with cabanas, pool toys, and daily fresh fruit and ice cream service.
Rates: With the Hot Dates/Cool Rates promotion…
July: $1,200 July 5-6, 10-14, 17-21
France
La Réserve Ramatuelle, Côte d’Azur
What: These beautiful 4-6 bedroom villas each have a private garden, a pool, and an open view of the Mediterranean Sea.
Why: Along with the privacy of a house, the villas come with all the benefits of being at La Réserve (housekeeper, personal chef upon request, and access to the hotel and spa services).
Camp/Activities: Like heading off to day camp, those at the villas can troop up to the spa for à la carte treatments including a few designed exclusively for the resort by La Mer, or sign up for the 6-day program – one that focuses on weight loss, body sculpting, and revitalization through spa treatments and personally prescribed activities like yoga or hiking..
Rates: 4 bedroom villas start at 15,000 euros for 7 nights (4,000 euros per night on a nightly basis)
Maldives
Anantara Kihavah Villas, Kihavah Huravalhi Island, Baa Atoll
What: Live like a true jetsetter with an extended stay on the resort’s private island. The newly opened 78 overwater villas all feature private plunge pools, outdoor showers, and oversized bathtubs for two, ooh la la!
Why: If the Maldivian sun isn’t temptation enough, the resort is home to the longest pool in the Maldives (161 feet), an underwater restaurant and wine cellar, and is the only place in the Maldives to go whale shark and pink coral diving.
Camp/Activities: Guests can take traditional cooking and weaving lessons or a day trip to Seabird Island to visit the sea crane nesting ground. For a more relaxed activity, try a signature coconut treatment in an overwater spa suite with an aquatic viewing panel below the treatment beds. The Thiththi Boli Kids Club has plenty of daily activities (such as arts and craft and locally inspired games) to keep the 12-and-under guests busy from sunrise to sunset.
Rates: From June 1-October 31, 2011:
Beach Pool Villa: $2,200
Overwater Pool Villa: $2,450
Two-bedroom Overwater Pool Villa: $7,150
Two-bedroom Beach Pool Villa: $7,500
Thailand
Anantara Lawana Resort & Spa, Koh Samui
What: Host the ultimate summer BBQ at your temporary residence along one of Koh Samui’s most famous and longest beaches, Chaweng Beach. The Royal Lawana Pool Villa is 3,229-square-feet and designed in remembrance the area’s ancient Chinese merchant settlers. The design is a fusion of Chinese-Thai contemporary styles with unique Chinese rooflines with vaulted ceilings.
Why: The expansive outdoor sala is ideal for summer gatherings, and Lawana provides a private chef, waiters, and bartender to create the perfect party. All rooms overlook the beach, and the private pool and sundeck are just the spot for taking in the setting sun.
Camp/Activities: Anantara Lawana offers Thai cooking classes, yoga lessons, water sports, and an expansive fitness center. Don’t fret if leaving the 9-5 causes a little separation anxiety; the business center and library are available for high-speed Internet access (or just borrowing a new book or DVD)!
Rates: Royal Lawana Pool Villa rack rate between June 1 and October 31, 2011 is 58,000 THB/night (approximately $1,899/night). The ‘Best Available Rate with Breakfast’ is 42,800 THB/night (approximately $1,401/night) and is available through October 31.
February 16th, 2011
Sure we’ve heard of great options for far flung destination weddings, but MarthaStewartWeddings.com just showed us an amazing, real life, destination wedding at Parrot Cay. Lucky newlyweds, Vanessa and Gavin, had a beautiful wedding on the shores of the island and the amazing pictures have us dreaming of a Parrot Cay wedding…
January 17th, 2011
Two of the most chic hotels around have teamed up. The result? An amazing week of spa treatments, city fun, and quality beach time. The Greenwich Hotel in TriBeCa in New York City and COMO Hotels & Resort’s island paradise of Parrot Cay have crafted the perfect vacation. Two nights in downtown Manhattan with pre-beach shopping and spa treatments followed by five nights on Parrot Cay with yoga, spa treatments, and plenty of sunshine.
Inclusions:
New York Inclusions:
- Two nights in a Courtyard Queen Room/Corner Suite
- Breakfast daily
- Shibui signature cordial and fresh fruit upon arrival
- Custom “pre-beach” NYC shopping itinerary
- Shibui Spa gift
- Three 50-minute spa treatments per room on a two-night package: Guests can choose from a Basic Lotus massage, a 50-minute beach prep body scrub, and a Shibui manicure or pedicure.
Turks and Caicos Inclusions:
- Five nights in a Garden View Room/Beach House
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily (excluding beverages)
- Return airport transfers
- Bottle of Champagne upon arrival
- Complimentary group yoga and Pilates and non-motorized water sports
- Fruit bowl replenished daily
- COMO Shambhala gift
- Six 60-minute spa treatments per room on a five-night package. Guests can choose from a COMO Shambhala Facial, COMO Shambhala Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Indian Head Massage, Shiatsu Treatment, Indonesian Massage, or Reflexology.
Availability: Now-August 2011
Pricing:
Option 1: Courtyard Queen Room at The Greenwich and Garden View Room at Parrot Cay: $4,595
Option 2: Corner Suite at The Greenwich and Beach House at Parrot Cay: $16,305
Additional nights can be booked at the best available rate by contacting the hotels directly.
January 14th, 2011
With winter weather leaving faces dry and dappled with frown lines, Parrot Cay and Guinot have the perfect solution, “The Ultimate Facial Boost Experience.” This NEW exclusive offer is now available on the island. The program follows a three-tiered approach for a youthful, glowing complexion. The seven-night program includes three anti-aging Guinot Hydradermie Lift treatments, and a machine-based facial using new technology to treat both the skin and facial muscles for an immediate lifting effect – especially around the eyes, mouth, nose, and forehead.
Stress and fatigue can cause more wrinkles and lines than one likes, so the package also has a relaxing COMO Shambhala Signature Massage and complimentary daily group yoga and Pilates classes for a calming way to slow pesky signs of aging.
The third element of The Ultimate Facial Boost Experience is focused on diet. The resort’s custom-made COMO Shambhala Cuisine menus – available at both restaurants – are designed to maximize personal performance, addressing energy levels and blood-sugar imbalances. The menu has an emphasis on raw foods with dishes rich in living enzymes and essential vitamins and minerals. Guests can also cleanse their systems with detoxifying juices, broths, elixirs, vitamin boosts, and organic teas.
Inclusions:
- Three Hydradermie Lift Treatments (note this is the maximum number that can be taken in one week)
- Daily COMO Shambhala Cuisine breakfast
- Daily activities schedule (yoga, Pilates, and non-motorized water sports)
- COMO Shambhala signature massage (60 minutes)
- Seven nights in a Garden View Room, based on double occupancy
Rate: $5,169 per person, inclusive of government tax, service charge, and return airport transfer
December 20th, 2010
Come February, when winter’s cold has really outworn its welcome, jet down to Parrot Cay for a restorative Pilates Retreat. Already known for its amazing yoga retreats, the private isle is kicking off its new offering, continuing to be ahead of the curve when it comes to wellness. The retreat comes after the success of the resort’s mini-Pilates programs last year.
Elizabeth Feltman, instructor at the renowned Manhattan studio Erika Bloom Pilates Plus, is teaching this immersive program. With two classes each day, participants learn to set intention behind each movement for a true body transformation and form a great foundation for an active and balanced lifestyle. Feltman’s love of movement began with dance, and for the last 11 years, along with dancing and integrative nutrition, she has trained using Pilates to deepen her understanding of anatomy and kinesiology (the study of human movement).
While on the island, be sure to take advantage of the white sand beaches, healthy COMO Shambhala cuisine with an Asian flare emphasizing raw foods, and the very Zen COMO Shambhala Retreat and its host of Asian-inspired treatments. Daily group yoga classes are also available gratis!
Dates: February 2-7, 2011
Inclusions: (more…)
December 17th, 2010
Parrot Cay – the beloved private-island resort in Turks & Caicos – is now offering signature Guinot treatments at the resort’s COMO Shambhala Retreat for the first time. Included is a new, exclusive offering, specially crafted for Parrot Cay called the Guinot Sun Soother Treatment (the perfect antidote to those few extra moments in the sun). The 75-minute therapy includes an aromatic foot bath, a massage with Energizing Body Oil and After Sun Intensive Recovery lotion, and a cleansing and moisturizing facial – sure to combat any sunburn. (Please see below for more.)
To celebrate this collaboration, one lucky spa-goer will win a three-night trip for two to the private isle for some sun and relaxation. The weekend starts with champagne upon arrival. Then it’s off to the COMO Shambhala Retreat for a signature Guinot facial. After the spa, guests may explore the azure waters with a private snorkeling session before stretching out during a private yoga lesson. Throughout the stay, guests can enjoy the healthy and tasty COMO Shambhala cuisine (a menu designed to maximize energy and well-being, relying on raw foods rich in living enzymes, vitamins, and sea minerals).
Full inclusions are as follows:
-Three nights of accommodation (in a garden room, upgrade subject to availability)
-Champagne upon arrival
-Full board (excluding alcohol and gratuity)
-Guinot Hydradermie facial for two
-One guided snorkeling session for two
-One private yoga class for two
-Two round-trip economy airplane tickets to Providenciales from within the US (excluding Hawaii)
-Two round-trip boat transfers between Providenciales and Parrot Cay
Valid for travel through December 31, 2011 (subject to availability, and black-out dates apply).
To signup, visit a local dayspa featuring Guinot or www.guinotusa.com. The promotion will run from February 1-March 31, 2011. To locate the nearest spa, visit http://www.guinotusa.com/locator/.
November 17th, 2010
These two got engaged on a Kenyan safari, so we’re sure the honeymoon will be equally as cool and unique. Here are our picks for the Royal Honeymoon.
CARIBBEAN
Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos
The private isle is the ultimate place to hide away from the cameras and unwind after all of the pomp and circumstance of a royal wedding.
Royal Treatment: Rent out the COMO Shambhala Cottage for a night of Champagne, spa treatments, and candlelit dining.
Rosewood Mayakobá, Mexico
Let loose after escaping to the beautiful Mexican Riviera hotel and test tequilas recommended by the resident tequila sommelier.
Royal Treatment: With Mayasutra, newlyweds can get intimate with a Moonlight Tantric Yoga class and a couples massage instruction session followed by 30 minutes of “alone time”.
Geejam, Jamaica
No stranger to celebrities, the luxury property was originally a residential recording studio where the likes of No Doubt and Amy Winehouse laid down some tracks.
Royal Treatment: Stay at the amazing Sanwood villa designed by British architect Anthony Wade in the 60s and relax in the private pool or bask in the Jamaican sun and take in the views on the sun deck.
GoldenEye, Jamaica
Next to the man in line for the throne, James Bond might be the most enviable Brit we know, so vacationing at this Jamaican hideaway where Fleming penned all the Bond books would be quite fitting.
Royal Treatment: Stay in the Fleming Villa for a private beach and the spirit of James Bond lingering in the air and compelling the swilling of shaken-not-stirred martinis.
The Caves, Jamaica
Dodge the paparazzi at the romantic Caribbean resort where couple feeling like a dip can leap off a cliff for a private swim.
Royal Treatment: It doesn’t get much more private than a candlelit dinner for two in a hidden cave looking out on the water.
Strawberry Hill, Jamaica
Following in his parents’ footsteps, William would love to vacation at this mountain resort where, besides Charles and Diana, the guests list boasts Mick Jagger and Bob Marley.
Royal Treatment: Get away from the photographers 3,100 feet above sea level and take in the sweeping views from the Blue Mountains.
Jakes, Jamaica
Kick off those shoes and lose the fancy cap; this charming seaside resort is the perfect antidote to structured courtly life.
Royal Treatment: Enjoy a private yoga session by starlight and listen to the waves.
NANTUCKET
White Elephant, Nantucket
What’s more fitting for English newlyweds than a trip to New England? This harborside Nantucket hotel is a classic (and classy) spot for postnuptial bonding.
Royal Treatment: Only on Nantucket (at Brant Point Grill) does a Bloody Mary come equipped with lobster.
THAILAND
Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa, Chiang Rai, Thailand
The luxurious Thai resort is tucked away in the beautiful Golden Triangle, away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.
Royal Treatment: Take a romantic ride atop an elephant – sure beats a limo!
Anantara Phuket Villas, Phuket, Thailand
After the long awaited ‘I do,’ couples can celebrate the occasion with a wide selection of live entertainment – including a seven-piece band at this Thai property.
Royal Treatment: Hidden in the mangroves, the lavish villas have a 355 ft. sq. private pool, outdoor showers, and a terrazzo tub built to accommodate two (and only two).
MALDIVES
Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa and Anantara Veli Resort & Spa, Maldives
These romantic spots embody what a honeymoon should be – nothing but sun, water, sand, and a newlywed couple pampered and sunkissed.
Royal Treatment: Answer to only your whims on a private a romantic island getaway with Anantara Dhigu, Veli, Naladhu, and the soon-to-be, Anantara Kihavah Villas opening in early 2011. The best part about Anantara in the Maldives is that at whatever resort couples choose to stay, free transfer is available between islands to enjoy the benefits of all.
Cocoa Island, Maldives
The private island resort in the South Male Atoll is just over 1000 feet long and is surrounded by pristine, turquoise water.
Royal Treatment: Honeymooners get a complimentary sunset cruise with vino and an antipasti plate.
SOUTH ASIABhutan
Uma Paro,
No tabloid photographers here; the remote mountain lodge is a great spot from which to explore Bhutan’s monasteries and temples and get spiritually in tune before returning to palace life.
Royal Treatment: After trekking through the country by bike or raft, couples can be pampered in the COMO Shambhala Retreat.
INDONESIA
Uma Ubud, Bali
The luxurious retreat set in the tangled jungle is perfect for the couple that likes an exotic locale without giving up modern comforts.
Royal Treatment: The COMO Suite allows guests to have spa treatments in private in its private treatment area.
High Seas
Crystal Cruises
Couples can sail away on a luxurious cruise to spots around the globe – no need to pick just one. Romantic “must-sees” include Rome, Mykonos, and Casablanca, to name a few.
Royal Treatment: Enjoy a Couples Massage in the Feng-Shui inspired Crystal Spa or cozy up in the back row of the Hollywood Movie Theater and watch a first-run movie while sipping champagne.
November 10th, 2010
As you may have seen, recently on the TODAY Show’s “The TODAY Show Throws a Wedding,” Parrot Cay was voted as the honeymoon destination for the lucky couple, courtesy of luxury travel network Virtuoso®. While thrilled to offer the newlyweds, Melissa and Jeremy, this lavish honeymoon with spa treatments, excursions, and romantic dinners, the resort is offering the chance for the same honeymoon to another fortunate pair of newlyweds.
We wanted to pass along this news in case you would like to share the opportunity with those newlywed or recently-engaged readers, friends, and colleagues who would enjoy an all-expenses paid honeymoon on the private isle.
To enter, visit the COMO Hotels & Resorts Facebook page here: http://www.facebook.com/#!/COMOHotelsandResorts. Click on the Contests tab to see submission directions. Full details on the promotion below.
How To Enter: If you or someone you know deserves to be treated to the blissful escape of a lifetime, “Like” COMO Hotels & Resorts and select the promotion tab to submit their names, a photo of the couple, and up to 500 words on why they should be the lucky recipients! Entries will be accepted from now through November 30.
How To Win: The top ten entries will be posted to the COMO Hotels & Resorts Facebook page on December 1. During the first two weeks of December (1-12), the public will vote by ‘liking’ their favorite couple. The couple with the most ‘likes’ wins!
Entry Period and Voting Period: Entries must be submitted between now and November 30. Voting will take place December 1-12, and the winner will be announced on December 13 at noon!
Inclusions:
*Seven night’s accommodation in a Private Villa, at full board
*Airfare for two, round-trip economy to Providenciales from within the US (excluding Hawaii and Alaska)
*Pick up and private boat from airport
*Champagne on arrival at private villa
*Private butler
*Day Dream Getaway to Iguana Island
*Private Guided Snorkeling Experience and a private tour of Parrot Cay
*COMO Shambhala Bath for two
*Private poolside dinner at Lotus, a resort restaurant
*Private chef dinner cooked in your villa
*Evening at the resort’s Spa cottage, including massage and dinner
*Beach barbeque and bonfire
*Complimentary laundry – return home with everything washed and folded – the honeymoon bliss continues to ease back into reality!
NOTE: Black-out dates apply; non-inclusive of gratuity
October 27th, 2010
JetBlue just announced a killer sale to Turks and Caicos ($159 each way from JFK). This new route is the best way to get down there, and you can eat all the Tara Blue Chips you want! Get picked up by a speed boat and zip off to the private island of Parrot Cay for a long weekend in paradise or a mid-fall break. Thank you TravelZoo for always keeping us informed on the best airline deals around!
October 19th, 2010
Check out the cover of the just released November Condé Nast Traveler! We wish we were there now, on the warm, private island of Parrot Cay. It only makes sense that the chic Caribbean isle would grace the cover page of the Best in the World issue, filled with readers’ favorite places all over the world.
