April 30th, 2012
The effortlessly chic fashion line, Haute Hippie, and the highly-lauded Jamaica hotspot GoldenEye Hotel announce their collaboration and the creation of a new “All Things Gold” clothing collection. Inspired by Island Outpost’s flagship property and the simply stunning north coast of Jamaica where the hotel is located, the Haute Hippie designs will launch in time for Resort 2012.
The laid-back rocker-chic designs of Haute Hippie founder Trish Wescoat Pound are in perfect harmony with the simple, iconic Jamaica-style glamour that Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Chris Blackwell has nurtured at the recently re-opened hotel. Their shared affinity for a relaxed approach to high style has resulted in this special “All Things Gold” collection, which will feature the vintage-inspired, yet modern vibe that both brands embody.
“So much of what inspires us is drawn from the places we travel and the music we listen to. The partnership with Chris Blackwell and GoldenEye is a true meeting of the minds – a sharing of aesthetics, tastes and influences,” said Trish Wescoat Pound, founder of Haute Hippie.
The “All Things Gold” Resort 2012 collection will be available later this year at Haute Hippie stores. The collection will also be carried on-site at GoldenEye and at its sister property Strawberry Hill Hotel, Spa & Gardens, which is set high among the Blue Mountains and offers breath-taking views over the city of Kingston below.
Haute Hippie draws from a myriad of cultures, genres, people and places, and embraces the lifestyle for which they design. More than just a line of beautiful clothes, Haute Hippie is an expression of a collective conscious, a common mindset and a shared worldview. It’s no wonder Wescoat Pound was inspired by Jamaica and GoldenEye following her recent wedding at the property. The hotel and its lush surroundings are steeped in old-Hollywood history – after all, it is the former home of author Ian Fleming and the location where he penned all 14 James Bond novels – yet thoroughly infused with the vibrant spirit of this most unique island. Set along the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, GoldenEye successfully pays homage to its rich heritage while offering contemporary luxury with an authentic Jamaican feel with brand new beach- and lagoon-front Cottages and Suites, swimming pools, and dining options.
About Haute Hippie
Founded by designer Trish Wescoat Pound, Haute Hippie is the expression of a love affair with clothing. From boy shorts to ball gowns, each piece in the Haute Hippie collection is inspired and designed by people who are passionate about the clothing they create. Haute Hippie embodies the spirit of the global nomad – blending vintage, urban chic and other cultural influences from around the world. The Haute Hippie woman is as comfortable exploring the jungles of Peru as she is the streets of New York; a true citizen of the world – comfortable in her own skin and free from the need to conform to trends. A believer in the democratization of fashion without compromising luxury, Trish infuses Haute Hippie with the same carefree – yet sophisticated – aesthetic that characterizes every aspect of her life. Founded in 2008, Haute Hippie is sold in over 100 stores across the United States and more than 40 countries worldwide.
About GoldenEye Hotel
GoldenEye overlooks the Caribbean Sea in the quiet village of Oracabessa Bay on Jamaica’s north coast. Built by the novelist Ian Fleming as his Jamaican retreat, GoldenEye is where Fleming wrote all 14 James Bond novels. Today, GoldenEye is an award-winning Island Outpost hotel. It is owned by Chris Blackwell, the Jamaica-raised founder of Island Records. Though built in 1949, GoldenEye reopened in 2010, following a two-year renovation. The hotel now encompasses Fleming’s original villa, three villas built by Blackwell, plus nine new Beach Cottages, two new Lagoon Cottages and six new Lagoon Suites. GoldenEye is sited on 52 stunning acres and is home to secret coves, breathtaking private beaches, tropical forests and a singular lagoon. Two new restaurants—The Gazebo and Bizot Bar—serve quintessential Jamaica-style cooking and signature cocktails mixed with Blackwell Fine Jamaica Rum. The FieldSpa is the home base for the fitness and activities program. Treatments are given by the water, in-your-own-room, or at a cottage named Royal Palm, at the lagoon-edge where open-to-the air treatment rooms are a sanctuary for massage, salt scrubs, skin brightening facials, herbal wraps, and energy work. A pioneer in a variety of green initiatives, GoldenEye supports the Oracabessa Foundation, which educates and encourages sustainable development within the community.
February 14th, 2012
We’re a mere six weeks away from spring break (not that we’re counting or anything…) and we’ve got warm temperatures on the mind! Whether you’re looking for some QT with the family, or hoping to jet off with your sweetie, Jamaica’s GoldenEye Hotel & Resort is offering some enticing winter getaways for families and couples alike. GoldenEye was once home to author Ian Fleming and the birthplace of James Bond. Today, the property features a collection of one- and two-bedroom Cottages, Villas, and Suites, as well a Fleming’s original five-bedroom villa.
For the Family: “Come Bond with Us”
Package includes:
- Activities: Picnic at Firefly (Noel Coward’s former home), fishing trip, tour of the local community with the Oracabessa Foundation, kayaking, and paddle boarding
- Trips: Dolphin Cove, Mystic Mountain, and Dunn’s River Falls
- Extras: Complimentary daily breakfast, a bottle of Blackwell Rum, US $100 OR $150 resort credit per day (one-bedroom Beach or Lagoon Cottage OR two-bedroom Beach Cottage, respectively)
- Insider Tip: Meet Ramsey, the hotel’s resident historian – having worked on the property since the days of Fleming. Have him carve you a monkey coconut (he’s an expert!) for an authentic souvenir.
- Rates: Starting at $1,500 per night; five-night minimum stay required. Valid now through April 30, 2012; blackout dates apply.
For the Couple: “For Your Eyes Only”
Package includes:
- Activities: Picnic at Firefly, private four-course dinner for two including wine pairings, and cocktails at sunset on the “GoldenEye” – the property’s glass-bottom boat
- Trips: A thrilling jet-ski excursion around the coast of GoldenEye
- Extras: Complimentary daily breakfast, a “90-Minutes-of-Bliss” in-room couples massage, and a bottle of Blackwell Rum
- Insider Tip: Bike ride to Firefly and sip champagne at dusk. Rumored to be Captain Morgan’s lookout, Firefly offers one of the most beautiful views of the Caribbean sunset.
- Rates: Starting at $840 per night; seven-night minimum stay required. Valid now through April 30, 2012; blackout dates apply.
For more information, visit www.GoldenEye.com or call 1.800.Outpost.
October 13th, 2011
The holidays can be hectic with all that shopping to do and all those family dinners to attend. Give yourself a break this year and plan a festive vacation! Whether it’s a snowy escape, a sunny getaway, or an urban adventure, there’s something for everyone.
SNOW
Where: Palace Luzern, Lucerne, Switzerland
What: A Swiss winter wonderland
Why: Taste world-famous Swiss Fondue and admire the breathtaking views of the snow-capped Alps from the windows of the oldest electric cogwheel-train as it climbs Mt. Rigi. Browse more than 45 stalls of holiday gifts and confections at the annual Christmas Market and wander the festively decorated medieval streets as carolers serenade in the distance during a winter escape to Lucerne, Switzerland. The Palace Luzern’s annual New Years Eve party will be the perfect start to 2012, and the hotel’s special New Years Eve package won’t break your budgeting resolutions for the new year!
When: The New Years Eve package starts at $844 (two nights, double occupancy) and is valid only December 30, 2011-January 1, 2012
Where: La Réserve Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
What: An enchanted holiday
Why: Spend the holidays at La Réserve Genève – explore the International Christmas Market, wave hello to Santa Claus at the Annual Electric Christmas Parade, and attend the annual Christmas Tree Festival where international artists display beautifully crafted sculptures and trees. For a special holiday evening, leave the kids with La Réserve Genève’s experienced babysitters, available for children aged 6 months to 13 years.
When: holiday rates start at $500 per night
SUN
Where: GoldenEye Hotel & Resort, Oracabessa, Jamaica
What: Who said the holidays had to be cold?
Why: Nestled on Jamaica’s north coast, GoldenEye Hotel & Resort was once the Jamaican home of author Ian Fleming and the site where he penned all 14 James Bond novels. Holiday festivities include dinner and entertainment on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, a New Years Eve Extravaganza, Festive Afternoon Teas, and Champagne Cocktail Party. Guests can kick off the New Year in good health kindness of the hotel’s fitness and activity program, with offerings such as daily yoga, paddle boarding, and local runs through Oracabessa. Younger visitors can kayak, snorkel, or participate in the hotel’s coral restoration program.
When: Holiday rates start at $1,040 per night from December 15 – January 7
Where: Pacific Coast Holiday, Roundtrip from Los Angeles to the Hawaiian Islands
What: 14 days of culture, fun, and adventure aboard Crystal Symphony
Why: Leave the snow behind and tour the sunny Hawaiian Islands aboard Crystal Symphony. Sign up for private dance lessons, take a helicopter ride over Oahu, or discover the wonder of whale-watching near Maui. Children will love learning to snorkel, kayak, and surf in the beautiful, warm waters.
When: December 21, 2011 – January 4, 2012, two-for-one fares start at $7,050 per person, and include $500 per person all-inclusive “ As You Wish” shipboard credit, plus free, round-trip air and airport transfer from two dozen North American gateway cities (or generous air credit). Restrictions apply.
CITY
Where: Park Hyatt Washington D.C.
What: A patriotic holiday
Why: Plan a Christmas visit to the Park, and start your stay with delicious homemade gingerbread cookies and Eggnog. For those revelers looking for the best place to bring in the New Year, the Park offers New Years guests two tickets to the hotel’s popular New Years Eve celebration in the Lounge. Extend the holiday cheer all winter long with the hotel’s Comfort and Joy package, which includes hot cocoa and fresh baked cookies to enjoy after braving the cold to attend the National Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Ceremony on the White House grounds or visiting the National Christmas Tree, lit daily during December.
When: Christmas package rates start at $445 for the first night and at $245 for each additional night from December 22-26, 2011; New Year’s Eve package available December 27-January 22, 2012 (contact hotel for rates); and Comfort and Joy package rates start at $299 per night from November 28-February 29, 2012
Where: The Inn on the Alameda, Santa Fe, New Mexico
What: 26th anniversary celebration
Why: Escape for a weekend at the Inn on the Alameda in Santa Fe, a city known for its dazzling luminaria displays! The Inn is turning 26 this year, and Santa Fe’s beloved and charming hotel is celebrating by offering a special anniversary rate. Guests who stay at the inn for three consecutive nights between October 30 and December 12 will pay just $26 for the third night! To get in the holiday spirit, travelers can attend a festive Santa Fe Desert Chorale winter concert or check out the shops of the historic Santa Fe Plaza area.
When: Special rates start at $336 from October 30-December 12 (excluding November 23-26 and November 30 -December 5)
Where: Peninsula Spa by ESPA, New York City
What: A rejuvenating ‘spa-cation’
Why: New York City is never more alive than at Christmastime with tree-lit ice skating at Rockefeller Center, enchanting carriage rides in Central Park, and lavish window displays at Saks. For people looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city streets, the Peninsula Spa by ESPA is offering a day-long ‘spa-cation,’ including a 60-minute treatment, a special lunch, and complimentary use of the pool and fitness centre.
When: Spa-cation package is available Monday – Thursday weekly for $285
June 1st, 2011
Ian Fleming, creator of James Bond, would have celebrated his 103rd birthday on May 28 (had he not passed away in 1964). After a WWII mission brought him to the Caribbean, Fleming returned to “paradise on earth” and built his dream villa, GoldenEye.
While we can’t all spend the rest of our days soaking in the Jamaican sun like Commander Fleming did (although we wish we could), why not celebrate his birthday with a trip to the birthplace of James Bond. There’s no better time than now with summer rates starting at just $448 per night for a Lagoon Suite. If you’re in the mood to party, grab the whole gang for a blow out bash and rent the Fleming Villa with rates starting at $4,400 per night. When not swimming in the turquoise lagoon or lounging on the beach, be sure to chat up Ramsey Dacosta, resident historian of GoldenEye, having worked at the property since the days when Fleming was in residence. He certainly has some good stories to share…
Trade in your martini (shaken, not stirred) for a red stripe and your tuxedo for a new bathing suit and toast to our Commander in Chief’s 103rd birthday!
May 19th, 2011
“What am I going to do with them for three months?” is the question weighing on many a parent’s mind. We’ve gathered up the best kid-friendly locations – no mouse ears required!
Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa
Where: Chiang Rai, Thailand
What: Elephant Camp
Why: Kids eight years and older can learn how to care for the endangered Thai Asian elephants at Elephant Camp under the tutelage of skilled mahouts who will teach them how to feed, bathe, and ride these gentle giants. Guests can contribute to helping their elephants with a donation to the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation, Anantara Golden Triangle’s charity.
Summer Perk: Summer is, contrary to popular belief, a lovely time to visit Northern Thailand, as the short bursts of rain cool the air and keep the flora lush and green. And there are deals to be had and far less tourists to contend with!
Rates: Anantara Golden Triangle offers a special Mahout Discovery package that includes accommodation in a room with daily breakfast and a three-day mahout training course. Rates for this special package begin at $402/night (not inclusive of taxes) for a Deluxe Room, double occupancy (children under 12 sharing a room with parents are free of charge and receive 50% off the daily breakfast).
Jakes
Where: Treasure Beach, Jamaica
What: Caribbean fun
Why: Kids have a variety of activities, such as a mosaic tile workshop led by the artist who is largely responsible for the unique mosaic design found throughout the property as well as watercolor painting classes. There are interactive cooking lessons to teach aspiring young chefs Jamaican cuisine, trips to stunning waterfalls where kids can jump from a rope swing Tarzan-style into the water, and Farm Tours where they follow the food from farm to table.
Summer Perk: Book four nights at Jakes and receive the fifth night free.
Rates: Starting at $95 per night for a garden room
Shakti
Where: Ladakh, India
What: Little ones in Little Tibet
Why: Outfitter of bespoke village walking tours, Shakti introduces children to snow-crested landscapes untouched by Western influence through a culturally-sensitive tour replete with colonial-style creature comforts. Guides lead guests on walks and activities such as monastery visits, rafting, and sightseeing between Himalayan villages, while porters supply day packs with lunches.* Families retire to Shakti’s fully staffed (and thoughtfully renovated) homes rented from villagers. Kids as young as six will love riding the region’s indigenous two-humped camels, while older ones may prefer to raft the Upper Indus, one of the great rivers of India.
Summer Perk: The weather is consistently sunny and dry on this high altitude plateau.
Rates: A seven-night walk with customizable itinerary and luxury homestead accommodations starts at $530 per night/per person, based on two to three adults, including meals, activities, guides, and ground transportation. A two-night Shayok River Rafting Journey offers ‘glamping’ in luxe-bedded tents; Western-style loos and showers is an optional add-on. Children between three and 16 will pay 50% of the adult rate.
White Elephant Hotel Residences
Where: Nantucket, MA
What: Classic New England Summer
Why: Kids can enjoy the surf at the nearby Children’s Beach and Jetties Beach – both beaches have swing sets, slides, and climbing equipment. There are also numerous activities such as whale-watching, fishing, biking, golfing, and bird-watching. The cabanas by the new members’ pool come equipped with pool toys, towels, and sun screen, and after a day at the beach, children can eat from their special menu at the delicious Brant Point Grill.
Summer Perk: Can’t beat the charm of Nantucket or the miles of beaches surrounding the island.
Rates: Starting at $350 in June for a King room with the Hot Dates/Cool Rates promotion
Crystal Cruises
Where: Alaska
What: Family friendly programming, excursions, and eats
Why: Crystal Symphony offers children’s programs and activities on select sailings including the Fantasia playroom and the Waves arcade, complete with a Sony Playstation® 3, Nintendo Wii™ and Xbox 360™. A daily newsletter, tailored by age group, provides details on kid-friendly activities, like sushi making with Nobu-trained chefs, bridge and galley tours, ice cream parties, scavenger hunts, and Computer University@Sea® classes.
Summer Perk: The Alaska Summer Series has allied with the National Park Service where Park Rangers come aboard to teach children about natural history; kids and teens can even become Junior Rangers!
Rates: Children 11 and younger pay 50 percent of the minimum fare when accompanied by two full-fare paying adults. Throughout the year, the line occasionally sets special promotions in which children can sail free when sharing a room with two adults.
Royal Mansour Marrakech
Where: Marrakech, Morocco
What: Joujou Kid’s Club
Why: Along with the idyllic playroom, everyday there is a schedule of events including an Arabic course, arts workshop, writing games, modeling clay, swimming pool games, dress up, and reading. Parents can also arrange for outings around Marrakech, including camel rides through the Palmeraie.
Summer Perk: Take the whole fam to check out the Festival National des Arts Populaires where Berber music, folk dance, and street performers fill the streets of Marrakech and provide wonderful – and free – entertainment.
Rates: Rates for a full individual riad start from €1,650 per night.
Parrot Cay
Where: Turks & Caicos
What: Caribbean fun
Why: The resort introduced children’s offerings based on input from guests, with a range of tailor-made activities including shell painting, tie-dying T-shirts, making necklaces from fossilized shark teeth, organized scavenger hunts, and sailing trips around the island. These activities are particularly popular since they allow the kids to make friends with others on the island.
Summer Perk: Now through October 31, with the Extend that Summer Feeling offer, guests at Parrot Cay get four nights for the price of three or seven nights for the price of five, including breakfast. AND kids eat free all summer!
Rates: Starting at $450 per night for a Terrace Room
La Réserve Genève
Where: Geneva, Switzerland
What: La Petit Réserve
Why: Children can explore the world of La Petite Réserve and let their imaginations run wild. The property features a creative ensemble of tree huts and an open air playground on the beautiful lawns.
Summer Perk: La Réserve Genève’s exquisite wooden speedboat is the perfect way to get out on the lake and take in the Swiss scenery and the city views.
Rates: Rates start at $682 for a superior king room
GoldenEye Hotel & Resort
Where: Oracabessa, Jamaica
What: James Bond-style Family Vacay
Why: The watersports program at GoldenEye is supervised by trained lifeguards and will teach children about water safety, snorkeling, jet skiing, and kayaking, and expose them to the amazing undersea world of extraordinary creatures and corals. Kiddies can carve coconuts, embark on nature walks, learn bonfire building and fishing with Ramsey (who has worked on the property since the days of Fleming), or stay up to stargaze with Brian, resident astronomy buff.
Summer Perk: Families save 46% off high season winter rates.
Rates: Starting at $448 per night for a Lagoon Suite
Park Hyatt Beaver Creek
Where: Beaver Creek, Colorado
What: Teen & Tween treatments at Allegria Spa
Why: Tweens and teens can ditch the ‘rents for some much deserved pampering at the Allegria Spa. Eight-12 year olds can indulge in the ‘Diva Deluxe,’ which includes a bubbling footbath, nail and toe art, a primadonna updo, and sweetcheeks makeup application. 12-16 year olds can recreate their favorite makeover scene with the Uptown Girl package, which includes a cranberry orange scrub, Swedish massage, teen facial, and makeup application.
Summer Perk: Fridays at the Park, a free weekly event with snacks, live music and activities for kids and the whole family.
Rates: Diva Deluxe- 70 minutes for $125, and Uptown Girl- 120 minutes and $250
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 9th, 2011
Sick of streets that resemble grimy gray Slushees? Concerned about those shimmering icicles that looked so dainty in December but now look like sinister samurai swords? You’re in luck because the doctor is in, and he prescribes a healthy dose of something tropical. More specifically, a dose of Jamaica. Even more specifically? You need to partake in the celebration of the opening of GoldenEye’s Bizot Bar.
Set on the western arm of Low Cay Beach, this new hot spot is named for Jean-François Bizot, the journalist, musical taste-maker, and founder of Paris-based world music radio station, Radio Nova. Bizot was a great friend of Island Outpost owner Chris Blackwell and was a frequent guest at GoldenEye.
In honor of the bar’s namesake, Radio Nova will be broadcasting the party live from noon to 6pm. Live interviews with Jamaican and world music stars (such as Grace Jones) will run throughout the event. But wait, will it be in French or English? The answer is: both. Moderator extraordinaire, Paul Holdengraber, Director of Public Programs at the New York Public Library, will be the bilingual host with the most.
Admission is free to guests of GoldenEye, and for non-guests tickets go for US$100. To stay at GoldenEye or to reserve tickets call 876-622-9007 or email goldeneye@cwjamaica.com
But, if getting down to Jamaica isn’t in the stars for you, simply recreate the party at home…
Step 1: Tune into novaplanet.com for the broadcast
Step 2: Turn up the heat and invite some friends over
Step 3: Make a big batch of rum punch
Step 4 (Optional): Fill your apartment with sand and palm trees
January 24th, 2011
We all know that Bob Marley is cool – his melodies are the perfect soundtrack for a warm sunny day with a rum punch in hand. What we may not have known is that his coolness may stem from Jamaica itself! CNNGo recently ranked countries by their coolness, and Jamaicans were ranked third coolest nationality in the world. The reggae tunes, the laid back life style, the effortless use of the word, “mon”… all of these things make Jamaicans pretty darn cool. Americans aren’t too far behind (we ranked #5 due to things like rock n roll, surfing, and Hollywood), but if you want to up your coolness factor, head down to Jamaica and kick back the newly opened GoldenEye with a Blackwell Rum cocktail.
January 5th, 2011
Island Outpost has the sexiest solution to shaking off the winter chill, with two new airport openings that will make it more glamorous – and easier than ever – to flit in, out and about Jamaica. In conjunction with Island Outpost’s Jakes in Treasure Beach, Lionel Densham Aerodrome opened on December 16th with an event hosted by Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Bruce Golding; and Ian Fleming International Airport, Jamaica’s third international entry point, is set to launch on January 12th, just 10 minutes away from the newly-reopened GoldenEye Hotel & Resort in Oracabessa.
Ian Fleming International Airport
Jamaica opened its first international airport in February, 1947. At the time Montego Bay Airport (today known as Sangster International) was the lively hub for island-hopping glitterati. Now, a month shy of that airport’s 64th anniversary, the best-loved bolt hole of the Caribbean will receive its third international airport with the launch of Ian Fleming International. The airport will be officially opened by Prime Minister Bruce Golding with a 4pm launch event on January 12th, and will be attended by Fleming’s nieces, Lucy and Kate, as well as Island Outpost founder and music mogul, Chris Blackwell.
The airport formerly known as Boscobel Aerodrome has been updated and expanded to accommodate private jets and other small commercial aircraft. It has also received a fitting name change – Ian Fleming was not only a fixture of the area (his Jamaica home is the idyllic GoldenEye Hotel & Resort) but he also helped put Jamaica on the map during the glamorous 50s and 60s. He and good friend Noel Coward would host everyone from heads of state to Hollywood royalty between his own estate and Coward’s nearby cliff-top home, Firefly.
Providing quick and easy access to Jamaica’s beautiful North Coast, the launch of Ian Fleming International means that the phrase “Let’s pop down to GoldenEye for lunch and a swim,” is no longer simply wishful thinking! The airport will be able to park six international aircraft with a maximum wingspan of 55 feet (16.8 meters) and maximum length of 65 feet (20 meters), plus three small domestic planes. Also available will be JetA1 and AvGas fuel. Initially, international flights will be limited to private aircraft, with a domestic shuttle service between Jamaica’s other airports set to launch at a future date.
Lionel Densham Aerodrome
For guests wishing to fly to Jakes, Lionel Densham Aerodrome is a new private airstrip located 10 minutes away from the resort. Exclusively for Jakes guests, it is the first aerodrome in Jamaica to be wholly owned by a resort property, to be used as an amenity for guests. The grass-surfaced strip is 2,300 feet long (701 meters) and is ideal for single-engine light aircraft. Four- and six-seater Cessnas will be available to transfer guests between Jakes and other Island Outpost properties, as well as to and from the main airports at Montego Bay and Kingston.
All flights will be private charters and part of a VIP package, which will include a complimentary bottle of champagne and spa treatments. But with rates starting at US$275/night for VIP flight and stay packages, this luxe add-on won’t break the bank! Reservations can be booked through Jakes, or Island Outpost’s central reservations. Guests wishing to land their own planes at Lionel Densham should request permission prior to their stay.
The eponymous airstrip pays homage to Jamaica’s first aviator, Lionel Densham – the great uncle of Jakes’ owner Jason Henzell. He was a local eccentric who first came to Jamaica in 1929 while navigating a yacht for some wealthy Americans. When the stock market crashed, so did the yachting job, and Lionel returned to Jamaica with his only sibling, Basil. Lionel was the first person living in Jamaica to own his own plane, but was perhaps a little more famous for his eccentricities. When a friend stopped to find out if he was having engine trouble he said: ”Oh no old boy, just frying an egg,” and sure enough that is just what he was doing, with his frying pan balanced precariously on his engine block.
December 15th, 2010
Island Outpost has the sexiest solution to shaking off the winter chill, with two new airport openings that will make it more glamorous – and easier than ever – to flit in, out and about Jamaica. In conjunction with Island Outpost’s Jakes in Treasure Beach, Lionel Densham Aerodrome will open on December 16th; and Ian Fleming International Airport, Jamaica’s third international entry point, is set to launch on January 12th, just minutes away from the newly-reopened GoldenEye Hotel & Resort in Oracabessa.
For guests wishing to fly to Jakes, Lionel Densham Aerodrome is a new private airstrip located 10 minutes away from the resort. Exclusively for Jakes guests, it is the first aerodrome in Jamaica to be wholly owned by a resort property, to be used as an amenity for guests. The grass-surfaced strip is 2,300 feet long (701 meters) and is ideal for single-engine light aircraft. Four- and six-seater Cessnas will be available to transfer guests between Jakes and other Island Outpost properties, as well as to and from the main airports at Montego Bay and Kingston. Lionel Densham Aerodrome will officially open with a special launch event at 10am on December 16th, hosted by Jamaica’s Prime Minister, the Hon. Bruce Golding.
All flights will be private charters and part of a VIP package, which will include a complimentary bottle of champagne and spa treatments. But with rates starting at US$275/night for VIP flight and stay packages, this luxe add-on won’t break the bank! Reservations can be booked through Jakes, or Island Outpost’s central reservations. Guests wishing to land their own planes at Lionel Densham should request permission prior to their stay.
The eponymous airstrip pays homage to Jamaica’s first aviator, Lionel Densham – the great uncle of Jakes’ owner Jason Henzell. He was a local eccentric who first came to Jamaica in 1929 while navigating a yacht for some wealthy Americans. When the stock market crashed, so did the yachting job and Lionel returned to Jamaica with his only sibling, Basil. Lionel was the first person living in Jamaica to own his own plane, but was perhaps a little more famous for his eccentricities. When a friend stopped to find out if he was having engine trouble he said: ”Oh no old boy, just frying an egg,” and sure enough that is just what he was doing, with his frying pan balanced precariously on his engine block.
Ian Fleming International Airport will be officially opened by Prime Minister Bruce Golding with a 4pm launch event on January 12th, and will be attended by Fleming’s nieces, Lucy and Kate, as well as Island Outpost founder and music mogul, Chris Blackwell. Just 10 minutes’ drive from GoldenEye, the airport formerly known as Boscobel Aerodrome has been renovated and expanded to accommodate private jets and other small commercial aircraft. It has also received a fitting name change – Ian Fleming was not only a fixture of the area (his Jamaica home is the idyllic GoldenEye Hotel & Resort) but he also helped put Jamaica on the map during the glamorous 50s and 60s. He and good friend Noel Coward would host everyone from heads of state to Hollywood royalty between his own estate and Coward’s nearby cliff-top home, Firefly. The airport will be able to park six international aircraft with a maximum wingspan of 55 feet (16.8 meters) and maximum length of 65 feet (20 meters), plus three small domestic planes. Also available will be JetA1 and AvGas fuel.