Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for Everyone

January 5th, 2024

Whether it’s a coffee table book, a once-in-a-lifetime experience or a gift from a hotel shop, there’s something for every friend, partner and family member this Valentine’s Day!

Books – a few beautiful coffee table books for aesthetes

Jamaica Vibes by Assouline

The Paramount Pictures film, Bob Marley: One Love, will hit theaters on February 14, 2024, providing a look at the legendary musician’s rise to fame. A household name, Marley put Jamaica on the map, inspiring countless other artists and creatives. The nation’s pride is reflected in the music, dance, cuisine and literature that originated in Jamaica, but has since influenced people across the globe. Now, the most stylish Caribbean nation has inspired Assouline’s newest title, Jamaica Vibes, with a foreword by music industry legend and Island Outpost founder Chris Blackwell. There are over 200 glossy photos taken by globally-renowned photographers, including Slim Aarons. The book is part of Assouline’s iconic Travel Series and retails for $105.

Villeggiatura: Italian Summer Vacation by Assouline

Belmond will open the brand’s ninth property in Italy in 2024, inviting guests to experience villeggiatura at Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel, Costa Smeralda. Prepare yourself for the Italian sunshine with Villeggiatura: Italian Summer Vacation, an exquisite coffee table book from Assouline and Belmond. With vivid imagery and evocative descriptions by former Vogue Italia editor Cesare Cunaccia, the book will take readers on a journey to Belmond’s collection of heritage hotels: Cipriani in Venice, Splendido and Splendido Mare in Portofino, Villa San Michele in Florence, Castello di Casole in Tuscany, Caruso in Ravello, and Grand Hotel Timeo and Villa Sant’Andrea in Taormina, Sicily. Available on Assouline.com retailing for $95.

UXUA Utopia: A Very Gifted Guest House

The boutique property on the Bahian coast of Brazil tends to attract a cool crowd (Anderson Cooper loved it so much that he built a house; its where Solange Knowles spent her honeymoon; models like Candice Swanepoel have been spotted there…), so it’s no surprise that leading trend forecaster Li Edelkoort joined forces to release this coffee table book. The 288 pages combine elements of design, art, and travel, exploring owner Wilbert Das’ achievements in establishing values for a new world through a local project meant to set a global example. Past guests can reminisce about their holidays while flipping through the beautiful pages, and those yet to visit can daydream and imagine themselves in the tropical paradise of Trancoso, Brazil. The book retails for $150.

Food & Beverage – for the foodies in the family

007 Special Edition Blackwell Fine Jamaican Rum

Chris Blackwell – the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer and owner of Ian Fleming’s former residence, GoldenEye – launched a 007 Collector’s Edition of his prized Blackwell Fine Jamaican Rum in 2023 in celebration of over 60 years of the James Bond film franchise. The packaging features a black and white photo of one of the original cinema lobby cards from the Dr. No film. Fewer than 1,000 boxes were made, and all are hand-numbered and include a personalized and signed note from Chris Blackwell. A rare gift for the connoisseur, the Blackwell Rum 007 Collector’s Edition features a special bottle of Blackwell Fine Jamaican Rum (750 mL in the US and 700 mL in the UK/Europe), sold exclusively on blackwellrum.com and 007store.com and retailing for $700.

Artisan Olive Oil from Tenuta di Murlo in Umbria

Tenuta di Murlo’s exclusive olive oil, harvested at the 18,000-acre estate from a blend of Dolce Agogia, Frantoio, Leccino, and Moraiolo olives holds the DOP label (Protected Designation of Origin) that is awarded to products that are produced, processed and prepared with ingredients from the specific region. For subtle amaro and spicy flavors, while also enjoying a fruity aroma with herbaceous notes, gift a bundle of three bottles for $83 on shop.murlo.com.

Elevated Gifts from the Chicest Hotel Shops

Exclusive Artisan Crafts at the Fife Arms

A dog is man’s best friend (or valentine!). Show your pup some love with The Fife Arms’ exclusive dog accessories, including a tweed & leather collar and a travel blanket. Designed exclusively by Araminta Campbell, the tweed’s pattern and palette are drawn from the ‘Green Mar’ tweed that the Duke of Fife would have worn when out hunting. The collar retails for $39 and the blanket retails for $87.

Nantucket Charm at home with White Elephant x Arhaus: The Limited-Edition Cashmere Throw

Arhaus, a leader in artisan-crafted home furnishings and décor, has teamed up with White Elephant Nantucket’s iconic harbor front resort for an exterior refresh as part of the property’s 100th-anniversary renovation. To commemorate this exciting collaboration, the exclusive and co-branded White Elephant x Arhaus embroidered throw blanket is available both online and in-store at the hotel’s newly redesigned retail space for $299. This limited-edition Cashmere Throw boasts supreme softness, rich colors, and a touch of classic style. Its fringed edges add texture, making it a perfect addition.

Elegant Teatime with The Westbury’s Finest Set

Relax with your valentine using The Westbury’s quintessential set of afternoon teacups and saucers. Available in a set of two, are crafted from the finest bone china and with a hand-painted gold rim. It elevates a DIY afternoon tea experience from the cozy confines of home. This set is available on shop.doylecollection.com, with a retail price of $88.

Charlotte & Co Dromoland Castle

Instead of the requisite trinkets that often fill hotel gift shops, Dromoland Castle’s Charlotte & Co, a boutique celebrating Irish artisans and giving visitors a one-stop shop to pick up an authentic, Irish-made item to remember their trip. While jewelry and chocolates tend to get a lot of attention over Valentine’s Day, Dromoland Castle’s Charlotte & Co. boutique has some more creative options, such as Belfast Bow Company with its selection of bowties, cufflinks, and pocket squares (think fun Liberty prints and Irish linen) and skincare products from plant-based Irish brand Seabody.

Where to Go: February 2024

December 18th, 2023

From riding a luxury train through Malaysia to cruising the Peruvian Amazon during high water season to relaxing in a villa in the Maldives, here are our top choices for places to travel in February:

Malaysia

Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train will make its much-anticipated return to the rails in February 2024 with restyled interiors and new journeys. Belmond will launch two new seasonal journeys departing from Singapore and traveling through Malaysia’s ever-changing landscapes and vibrant cities: the Essence of Malaysia (November to February) and Wild Malaysia (March to October). The Wild Malaysia journey was devised in collaboration with global tiger conservation organization, Save Wild Tigers, to bring Belmond guests to a new destination for the brand – the Taman Negara National Park. One of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world formed 130 million years ago, the Taman Negara National Park is home to hundreds of species such as tigers, leopards, and Sumathran rhinos. Travelers will embark on a variety of excursions including meeting with local volunteers in Merapoh about the safeguarding of the critically endangered Malayan Tiger to a foraging experience in the jungle.

Zurich, Switzerland

In February, Zurich emerges as a premier destination with its magical winter atmosphere. Snow-covered streets, glistening lakes, and breathtaking mountain views create a wonderland for visitors to enjoy. Whether it’s strolling through the charming Old Town, exploring the famous Bahnhofstrasse shopping street, or taking a boat ride on Lake Zurich, the city is transformed into a scene that is straight out of a fairytale. Zurich Carnival occurs from February 16-18 and allows locals and visitors to gather to celebrate with parades, colorful costumes, and lively music. Another highlight is the Sechseläuten, a traditional spring festival dating back to the Middle Ages, featuring the famous burning of the Böögg, a snowman effigy. For travelers looking to delve deeper into the city’s artistic and cultural offerings, La Reserve Eden au Lac Zurich, right on the shores of Lake Zurich, offers a variety of exclusive experiences for its guests including free admission to Kunsthaus Zurich, Switzerland’s largest art museum and home to one of Europe’s most extensive art collections, including masterpieces by renowned artists such as Monet and Van Gogh.

Jamaica

The Paramount Pictures film, Bob Marley: One Love, will hit theaters on February 14, 2024. Starring Kingsley Ben-Adir and produced by Ziggy Marley, the biopic will provide a look at the legendary musician’s rise to fame. A household name, Marley put Jamaica on the map. Today, the reggae superstar’s influence as the country’s greatest musician, spiritual icon and righteous revolutionary leader – is still present. Throughout Jamaica, music echoes from local jerk shacks and his portrait is splashed across storefronts. Travelers can retrace his life with a visit to his Kingston home, which has since been converted to a museum; partake in a tour through Trench Town, known for being the birthplace of reggae; and or attend an event at the location of Marley’s Historical 1978 Peace Concert – which is also the main focus of the film. Book a stay at Chris Blackwell’s Strawberry Hill in the Blue Mountains. Blackwell not only signed Marley to his Island Records label, but also brought him Strawberry Hill to recuperate after his 1976 attempted assassination. Today many artists and visionaries continue to return to mountaintop retreat for revitalization and renewal.

Peruvian Amazon

February is an ideal time of year to visit Peru, especially for travelers planning to visit Machu Picchu (best time to avoid the usual tourist rush) or those who want to experience notable festivals (including the Carnival of Cajamarca from February 10-14, 2024). For those who want the ultimate adventure in Peru, Aqua Expeditions announced additional seven-night Amazonia departures in February 2024 on the 20-suite Aqua Nera. There are also options for three- and four-night sailings. February is part of the high water season in the Amazon, meaning guests can get closer to the jungle tree canopy and explore the rainforest mainly on water, bringing monkeys, birds, and turtles closer to the naked eye. Since 2021, Aqua Nera, best described as a floating boutique hotel, has been taking guests to some of the most remote parts of the Amazon with their private military grade skiffs. Days are structured much like those of land-based safaris with naturalist-led twice-daily excursions ranging from jungle walks and piranha fishing to exploring hidden lakes and lagoons and spotting exotic wildlife. While on board, guests can expect world-class cuisine curated by acclaimed Peruvian chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, SpaceX’s high-speed Starlink satellite internet, a river-facing gym, outdoor plunge pool, and more.

Maldives

With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery white sands, the Maldives offers a picturesque setting for a winter escape. The weather in February is at its best, with 10 hours of sunshine per day and minimal rainfall.  Underwater visibility is also at its prime – up to 130 feet in depth – ideal conditions for snorkeling and scuba diving among the kaleidoscope of colorful reef fish and moray eels. The Maldives is known for its year-round whale shark sightings, but February is a particularly good time to spot these gentle giants. This month is also nesting season for turtles, making it a great time to witness them laying eggs on the beaches or hatchlings making their way to the ocean. Many resorts in the Maldives actively engage in ocean conservation and education programs to protect these fragile ecosystems. At Gili Lankanfushi’s new marine biology center, guests can get involved in a myriad of ocean-focused initiatives, including the Coral Lines project. The program – the first of its kind in the Maldives – was founded nearly a decade ago to protect and replenish the island’s reefs while increasing biodiversity. Guests can make their own coral line or join a guided snorkeling tour with the in-house marine biologists.

Black Friday + Cyber Monday Travel Offers

October 31st, 2023

From Black Friday (November 24) to Cyber Monday (November 27), here are eight unmissable travel deals, ranging from international adventures to domestic getaways.

INTERNATIONAL

40% Off | andBeyond | Africa + South America

Save up to 40% on a 2024 andBeyond booking by purchasing one of a limited number of Cyber Monday $4,000 travel vouchers for $3,000. These $4,000 vouchers can be redeemed off any new andBeyond lodge booking providing an additional $1000 of savings to any other offers applied in the booking.

  • Booking Dates: Only November 27 (Cyber Monday). Payment will be processed by November 30.
  • Voucher Terms and Conditions:
  • The vouchers are redeemable for travel for up to three years.
  • Only applicable to new andBeyond lodge accommodation bookings in Africa and South America where a minimum of four nights at any combination of andBeyond lodge or camp are booked.
  • The voucher is a payment method that can be used on a booking containing any of andBeyond’s other offers.
  • There are a limited number of 50 vouchers available for sale. A maximum of one Cyber Monday voucher redeemed per booking, and sales are limited to one voucher per person.

 

30% Off | Almanac Hotels | Barcelona, Prague, Vienna

Almanac Hotels, the family-owned boutique hospitality brand including Almanac Barcelona and newly unveiled Almanac Palais Vienna and Almanac X Alcron Prague, are offering 30% off the best available room rate, including complimentary breakfast, WiFi, and access to spa and gym facilities.

  • Booking Dates: November 24 – 27, 2023
  • Travel Dates: November 28, 2023 – March 15, 2024. Blackout dates apply. Two-night stay minimum in Barcelona and Prague.
  • Booking links, per property:
  • Almanac Barcelona: here
  • Almanac Palais Vienna: here
  • Almanac X Alcron Prague: here

 

Up to 50% Off | Dromoland Castle | Ireland

Dromoland Castle, a stunning 16th-century fortress nestled in the picturesque County Clare, Ireland, boasts a rich history is offering up a great deal. Enjoy a discounted two-night accommodation in the Queen Anne Classic or Deluxe Bedroom, full English breakfast daily, and 10% discount on a 60-minute treatment at the brand-new Barbara Sturm Castle Spa.

  • Booking Dates: Only November 27 (Cyber Monday).
  • Travel Dates: January 3 – March 31, 2024. Two nights stay minimum.
  • Starting Price:
  • Queen Anne Room: €680 total for two nights (inclusive of offer)
  • Deluxe Bedroom: €810 total for two nights (inclusive of offer)

 

30% Off | Tenuta di Murlo | Umbria, Italy

Tenuta di Murlo, the enormous 18,000-acre estate has been in the Carabba Tettamanti family since the 16th century and the current generation have spent a decade restoring, renovating, and designing the medieval farmhouses dotting the estate. The property is offering a 30% discount on a two-night stay minimum including daily breakfast and one dinner at Il Caldero. The offer applies to any of the eight villas which can accommodate anywhere from two to 12 guests.

  • Booking Dates: Only November 27 (Cyber Monday)
  • Travel Dates: Can be applied through April 30, 2024.
  • Starting price: €950

 

30% Off | Gili Lankanfushi | Maldives

Gili Lankanfushi the luxurious, eco-friendly resort situated in the Maldives, renowned for its overwater villas, pristine beaches, and turquoise waters is offering a 30% discount on the Best Flexible Rate, including complimentary half-board inclusions and a 60-minute spa treatment per person per villa once per stay.

  • Booking Dates: November 24 – 27, 2023
  • Travel Dates: December 1, 2023 – December 20, 2024.
  • Blackout dates: December 29, 2023 – January 7, 2024 and March 25 – April 3, 2024.
  • Booking link here OR contact the reservation team via email (reservations@gili-lankanfushi.com), WhatsApp +960 793 77 99 or phone call +960 664 0304. Use promo code CAMP-GILIBLACKFRIDAY2023.

 

25% Off | GoldenEye | Oracabessa, Jamaica

GoldenEye, the former home of Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond, is offering up to 25% off when booking a minimum two-night stay (up to a maximum 14-day stay). Rates are not valid for 3 rooms or more per guest.

  • Booking Dates: November 23 – 28, 2023
  • Travel Dates: January 4 – March 31, 2024
  • Starting Rates: $650, per night (without the discount) or $489 with the 25% offer. This is available for all room categories, excluding Fleming Villa.

 

DOMESTIC

25% Off | White Elephant Resorts | Nantucket, Massachusetts + Palm Beach, Florida

The White Elephant Resorts portfolio, including Jared Coffin House, The Cottages, The Wauwinet, and White Elephant in Nantucket, and White Elephant Palm Beach in Florida, will offer a fourth night free when booking a minimum three-night stay. The offer will be available for both the Nantucket and Palm Beach properties with an extended booking period from Black Friday through December 1. When booking, use the code: Cyber24.

  • Booking Dates: November 24 – December 1, 2023
  • Travel Dates for Nantucket: April 11 – October 26, 2024; blackout dates may apply
  • Travel Dates for Palm Beach: January 1 – October 31, 2024; blackout dates may apply
  • Starting Prices and Booking Links:
  • White Elephant Nantucket: $425. Booking link here.
  • Jared Coffin House: $220. Booking link here.
  • The Wauwinet: $395. Booking link here.
  • The Cottages at the Boat Basin: $180. Bookling link here.
  • White Elephant Palm Beach: $495. Booking link here.

 

40% Off I Parker Palm Springs I Palm Springs, California

Parker Palm Springs, a desert oasis nestled in the heart of Palm Springs known for its chic retro aesthetic, is offering 40% off the best available rate on any villa reservation as well as a $200 credit per villa per booking that can be claimed at the Palm Springs Yacht Club spa or for at Mr. Parker restaurant. Minimum three-night stay required.

  • Booking Dates: Only November 27 (Cyber Monday)
  • Travel Dates: Through December 31, 2024; blackout dates may apply
  • Starting price: $399 per night

 

30% Off I The Roundtree I Amagansett, New York

A hidden gem of low-key luxury in the Hamptons, just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from New York City, The Roundtree Amagansett is offering guests a 30% discount off of regular room rates.

Assouline and Island Outpost to Launch ‘JAMAICA VIBES’ Book in August 2023

July 25th, 2023

With its rich culture and sublime scenery, Jamaica has inspired countless artists and creatives. The nation’s pride is reflected in the music, dance, cuisine and literature that originated in Jamaica, but has since influenced people across the globe. The legacy of Bob Marley is intricately linked with the image of Jamaica; and for novelist Ian Fleming, Jamaica was his creative incubator. Now, the most stylish Caribbean nation has inspired Assouline’s newest title, Jamaica Vibes, written by Lisa Lovatt-Smith and Novia McDonald Whyte, with a foreword by music industry legend and Island Outpost founder Chris Blackwell. The book, launching in August 2023, is part of Assouline’s iconic Travel Series and retails for $105.

Born to a family that made its fortune in Jamaica growing sugar cane and making rum, Blackwell grew up on the island. By the 1960s, he entered the music business and launched the careers of Bob Marley and U2. He is credited for popularizing reggae throughout the world and has since been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. But Blackwell is just as well-known for his passion for Jamaica and its people, and his collection of celebrity-favorite boutique hotels as part of the Island Outpost portfolio. These include the legendary GoldenEye, previously owned by Bond creator Ian Fleming, who penned his best-selling spy series from the property’s famed waterfront villa. Blackwell also owns the Strawberry Hill mountain estate (where he grew up having Sunday tea), and the honeymoon-favorite The Caves.

Blackwell contributed a forward to Jamaica Vibes, presenting an intimate, insider portrait of this vibrant island nation and its mesmerizing power. The book was written by Lisa Lovatt-Smith, former editor and fashion director at various editions of Vogue; and Novia McDonald-Whyte, senior associate lifestyle editor and social content at the Jamaica Observer Media group.

Throughout the book are over 200 glossy photos taken by photographers including Slim Aarons and Adrian Boot and feature images of the nation’s colorful culture. Over the decades, Jamaica has hosted a never-ending parade of glamorous guests, including the likes of Harry Belafonte and Kate Moss, who have also shared quotes for the book.

For more information, visit Assouline.com.

Ian Fleming’s GoldenEye Announces New Package to Celebrate 70 Years of James Bond

July 25th, 2023

2023 marks the 70th anniversary of Ian Fleming’s Casino Royale, the first novel in the legendary James Bond series. In celebration, GoldenEye in Jamaica is offering a dedicated package that will trace both Fleming’s and Bond’s footsteps with ‘The Ultimate Ian Fleming Experience.’

Ian Fleming was a former British intelligence officer and discovered Jamaica during a WWII mission in 1942. Four years later, he purchased 15 acres of under-developed tropical land and named it GoldenEye to pay homage to his naval operation that first brought him to the island. He resided there every winter for more than two decades and penned all 14 James Bond books onsite (sometimes typing more than 2,000 words a day). 70 years later, the James Bond name is recognizable across every corner of the globe.

Highlights of the package include a guided snorkeling tour through Fleming’s beloved reefs; and a tour of his Villa (based on availability) where his writing desk and typewriter remains. Outside, guests can stroll through the sunken garden where Fleming entertained the likes of British Prime Minister Sir Anthony Eden, playwright Noel Coward, and actress Katharine Hepburn.

The four-night package includes:

  • Accommodations in a one-bedroom Lagoon Cottage
  • Guided snorkeling excursion
  • Tour of the Fleming Villa (pending availability)
  • A bottle of Bollinger champagne (featured in many of the Bond films and first mentioned in Fleming’s 1956 novel, Diamonds Are Forever)
  • 007 Collector’s Edition of Blackwell Rum – created in celebration of over 60 years of the James Bond film franchise (Did you know? GoldenEye  is owned by music legend Chris Blackwell. He served as a location scout in Jamaica for the 1962 Bond film Dr. No)

Package rates start at $3,700 for four nights in a one-bedroom Lagoon Cottage; available for stays now through October 31, 2023.

Call 800.688.7678, email reservations@islandoutpost.com, or visit https://www.goldeneye.com.

Cheating Summer Reading

July 25th, 2023

Everyone dreams of plowing through a towering stack of best sellers in the summer – visions of quiet beach days and lounging poolside. Often, life gets in the way of these serene, literary daydreams and the stack of books gets smaller and dustier. For a way to cheat a bit for summer reading, here are some of our favorite new coffee table books to transport readers (viewers, really) off to another locale.

UXUA Utopia: A Very Gifted Guest House

The boutique property on the Bahian coast of Brazil tends to attract a cool crowd (Anderson Cooper loved it so much that he had them build him a house, it’s where Solange Knowles spent her honeymoon, models like Candice Swanepoel have been spotted there…), so it’s no surprise that leading trend forecaster Li Edelkoort joined forces to release this new coffee table book this summer. The 288-page book combines elements of design, art, and travel, exploring owner Wilbert Das’ achievements in establishing values for a new world through a local project meant to set a global example. Past guests can reminisce about their holidays while flipping through the beautiful pages, and those yet to visit can daydream and imagine themselves in the tropical paradise of Trancoso, Brazil.

Assouline and Island Outpost launch Jamaica Vibes – August 2023

With its rich culture and sublime scenery, Jamaica has inspired countless artists and creatives. The nation’s pride is reflected in the music, dance, cuisine and literature that originated in Jamaica, but has since influenced people across the globe. The legacy of Bob Marley is intricately linked with the image of Jamaica; and for novelist Ian Fleming, Jamaica was his creative incubator. Now, the most stylish Caribbean nation has inspired Assouline’s newest title, Jamaica Vibes, written by Lisa Lovatt-Smith and Novia McDonald Whyte, with a foreword by music industry legend and Island Outpost founder Chris Blackwell. The book, launching in August 2023, is part of Assouline’s iconic Travel Series and retails for $105.

Born to a family that made its fortune in Jamaica growing sugar cane and making rum, Blackwell grew up on the island. By the 1960s, he entered the music business and launched the careers of Bob Marley and U2. He is credited for popularizing reggae throughout the world and has since been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. But Blackwell is just as well-known for his passion for Jamaica and its people, and his collection of celebrity-favorite boutique hotels as part of the Island Outpost portfolio (GoldenEye, Strawberry Hill, and The Caves). Blackwell contributed a forward to Jamaica Vibes, presenting an intimate, insider portrait of this vibrant island nation and its mesmerizing power.

Italian Summer Vacation brought to you by Belmond

Belmond, owned by LVMH, has collaborated with the former editor-at-large of Vogue Italia, Cesare Cunaccia, to publish Villeggiatura: Italian Summer Vacation ($95). As the definition of “authentic” travel continues to evolve, the Assouline coffee table book is a vibrant reminder that a hotel is not just a hardware, but in fact, it is a part of cultural immersion and prolonged discovery – whether at the newly renovated Splendido in Portofino, the countryside estate Castello di Casole in Tuscany, or perched atop the mountains of Ravello at Caruso.

Available online at assouline.com.

 

 

Ian Fleming’s GoldenEye Announces New Package in Celebration of 60 Years of James Bond

October 7th, 2022

Ian Fleming’s GoldenEye Announces New Package in Celebration of 60 Years of James Bond

2022 marks the 60th year of Bond—James Bond. What better place to celebrate than GoldenEye, the lush Jamaican hideaway where Ian Fleming wrote all fourteen 007 novels? Travelers who book a minimum four-night stay from September 28-December 19 will unlock 30 percent off accommodations, among other perks. Go to the source of Fleming’s literary inspiration by booking the five-bedroom villa that the author built and resided in as he penned classics like Casino Royale and Live and Let Die.

As a guest of GoldenEye, you’ll celebrate 60 years of Bond in killer style. A complimentary arrival cocktail will set the tone, followed by a bottle of Bollinger Champagne and a flask of Blackwell rum in the room. When you’re not lounging on the golden sounds or strolling the gardens where Fleming sought inspiration, enjoy complimentary use of the tennis court, non-motorized water sports, and the fitness course. Starting from $575 per night; booking is subject to availability, blackout dates apply (November 24-28, December 20-January 3, 2023); services and tax not included; valid for new bookings only, not combinable with other promotions.

The 60th Anniversary package is one of GoldenEye’s many offers for this year. Others include License to Chill, an exclusive promotion that gives guests US$500 to put toward dining during five-night minimum stays. Booking is subject to availability; blackout dates apply (April 13-18, July 1-4, November 24-28, 2022); travel window: January 4, 2022 to December 19, 2022; Booking window: now to December 14, 2022.

There’s also the Hut Life offer, where you can reserve four nights for the price of three (or seven nights for the price of five) in a  Beach Hut—owner Chris Blackwell’s preferred accommodation—some of which have private verandas, outdoor showers, and claw foot tubs set amid lush gardens. Booking is subject to availability; blackout dates apply (April 13-18, July 1-4, November 24-28, 2022); Travel window: January 4, 2022 to December 19, 2022; Booking window: now to December 15, 2022; Valid in Beach Hut category.

To experience the diversity of Jamaica, consider the Two-Post Outpost package, which includes three-night minimum stays at both GoldenEye and Strawberry Hill, another property in the Island Outpost portfolio, set in the heart of Jamaica’s Blue Mountains. At GoldenEye, enjoy a guided coral reef snorkeling excursion and a rum and brown sugar scrub included. During the 2.5-hour drive to Strawberry Hill, you’ll motor through Jurassic Park-like scenery and steep roads with bends tighter than a hairpin, passing jerk shacks with names like “Pon di Road Nyammings” that cling tightly to the mountainside. Once you’ve arrived at the 12-room cottage hotel, unwind with a signature in-room spa treatment, complete with views over the city of Kingston and beyond. Minimum length of stay: 3 nights per property for Goldeneye & Strawberry Hill, 6 nights in total. Subject to blackout dates (April 13-18, July 1-4, November 24-28, 2022); Cannot be combined with any other promotion; Travel window: January 4, 2022 to December 19, 2022; Booking window: now to December 13, 2022

About GoldenEye

Once the Jamaica home of renowned author Ian Fleming, GoldenEye was developed by Island Records founder, Chris Blackwell, and opened as a resort in 2011.  GoldenEye is home to private beaches, secret coves, a seawater lagoon and The Fleming Villa (where all 14 James Bond books were written). There are four dining options (The Gazebo, Bizot Bar, Shabeen and the Bamboo Bar), a newly expanded FieldSpa and accommodations that include Beach and Lagoon Villas, Lagoon Cottages, Beach Huts and an ocean front villa. GoldenEye is located 20 minutes east of Ocho Rios. It’s 90-minutes by car from Montego Bay Airport and an eight-minute drive from Ian Fleming International (private aviation only).

5 Favorite Indulgent Accommodations Around the Globe

August 2nd, 2022

A room with a view is always nice. But the world’s most indulgent accommodations go beyond sweeping vistas to offer sumptuous interiors, next-level service, and a dash of the unexpected—from a romantic open-air treehouse in Kruger National Park to a butler-serviced private riad in Marrakech complete with lavish rooftop terrace and home cinema. Take a peek inside:

Grand Riad at Royal Mansour

A four-bedroom oasis spread across three floors, this “medina within a medina” offers palatial-style design, private butler service, and a terracotta roof terrace inlaid with mosaics and offering sweeping views of the Atlas Mountain. Interiors are a vision of stucco lace, heavy drapery, Murano chandeliers, and a riotous mix of colorful wallpaper and precious stones. The ground floor opens onto a private garden with a retractable roof, while a cast iron elevator whisks you to the floors above, where each of the bedrooms has dressing rooms and private bathrooms. Other spaces include a dining room with billiards, a library for artful lounging, a neoclassical-style dining room, and the roof terrace with a plunge pool, Bedouin tent, and hammam.

Private Reserve at Gili Lankanfushi

A Robinson Crusoe fantasy come to life, the Private Reserve at Gili Lankanfushi is the world’s largest overwater villa, stretching across the Indian Ocean in multi-level tiers. Guests spend their days lounging by the infinity-edge pool and in the overwater catamaran nets; working out in the air-conditioned gym; pampering themselves with treatments at the private couples’ spa (complete with a steam room and indoor/outdoor treatment rooms); and sliding down the top-deck waterslide into turquoise waters. By night, enjoy movie screenings at the private cinema, and retire in the guestrooms (of which there are two en suite master bedrooms and a guest suite), which have doors that open to the breathtaking scenery. Other perks of the Private Reserve include a fully-equipped kitchen and the option to curate your own wine selection from the 400-label cellar.

Ian Fleming Villa at GoldenEye

Situated within the GoldenEye resort, this villa is tucked away in a private garden, where it’s hidden by tall trees and tropical foliage. It’s here that acclaimed British novelist Ian Fleming wrote all 14 James Bond books, inspired by the lush scenery and the three-bedroom villa he designed to his own specifications. A dedicated butler is on hand to make your every wish a reality, while a chef can whip up Jamaican specialties and martinis (shaken, never stirred) to be enjoyed in outdoor settings like a sunken garden or on the private beach, where there’s a grill built into the side of a rocky cliff. Each of the villa’s three bedrooms has its own tropical garden area with a clawfoot tub and a garden shower, setting the scene for relaxation en plein air. There are also two private stand-alone one-bedroom cottages on site for larger groups or families.

Producer Suite at The Chatwal New York

Guests of the Producer Suite will feel they’ve traveled back in time to New York’s heyday. Designed by French architect Thierry Despont, the expansive suite harks back to the city’s Art Deco past with its bold colors, geometric shapes, and a spiral staircase that spans two floors, leading to a panoramic roof terrace with views spanning over west 44th street and Manhattan’s skyline. Stretch out on a lounger enjoying the vistas of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and order room service for the ultimate New York power lunch. Butler services ensures you won’t have to lift a finger.

andBeyond Ngala Treehouse

It’s impossible not to feel a sense of child-like wonder as you sleep under the stars at the Ngala Treehouse, surrounded by the wilds of Kruger National Park. The four-floor treehouse offers the ultimate thrill—of being one with nature—while drifting off to the sights and sounds of the forest, far from the distraction of civilization. Enjoy sundowner drinks and a starlit dinner picnic on the upper deck, then retire to the elevated sleep-out platform for sleeping outdoors under a retractable screen (there’s also a covered and weatherproof space should you want to move indoors). And just because you’re off the grid doesn’t mean you have to go without the conveniences of a hot shower or a flushing toilet. Talk about the best of both worlds!

 

Chris Blackwell Launches Blackwell Rum x Charbonnel et Walker Truffles

November 22nd, 2021

Two Celebrated Names Collaborate & Create The Perfect Pairing Of Rich Dark Chocolate And Smooth Island Flavor

On November 21, 2021, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and hotelier Chris Blackwell will launch his latest collaboration, Blackwell Rum Truffles, which decadently combines his smooth Jamaican Gold Blackwell Rum with the chocolate of Britain’s first and finest chocolatiers, Charbonnel et Walker.  Each delectable truffle has a velvety golden rum-filled center wrapped in their legendary rich and silky dark chocolate and topped with vermicelli chocolate sprinkles. Available to order on BlackwellRum.com and CharbonnelChocolates.com, each package of 9 truffles is $28.00.

Blackwell Rum Truffles are elegantly presented in the chocolatier’s signature style – a luxurious handmade gold box.  Tucked under the box lid is an exclusive playlist, accessible via a QR code, curated by music industry pioneer and Island Records founder Chris Blackwell himself.  A transportive experience filled with the spirit of Jamaica awaits while savoring Blackwell Rum Dark Chocolate Truffles paired to this selection of relaxing island sounds.

The Black Gold Blackwell Rum used in these dark chocolate truffles has a traditional dark rum character with a light butter-gold body, soft notes of vanilla, caramel and toasted marshmallow, and a natural spice finish. The rum is encased in dark couverture chocolate composed of 70% cocoa solids, with its rich flavor complementing the warm, spiced palette of the spirit.

The partnership was inspired by the island of Jamaica where both Blackwell and Charbonnel et Walker Chairman Galvin Weston have strong roots and a family heritage.

Influential entrepreneur and record producer Chris Blackwell hails from one of the longest producing rum families on Jamaica. He founded Island Records in 1959, introducing the world to Millie, Bob Marley, Grace Jones, U2, Robert Palmer and Cat Stevens. Before there was music, there was rum. Returning to his roots, Chris created an exceptional dark Jamaican rum based on an original family recipe. It’s his special way of celebrating Jamaica’s unique and limitless energy.

With a royal warrant and celebrated patronage, Charbonnel et Walker, established in 1875, are known for fine chocolates and truffles. Mme Charbonnel, trained with the decadent and experiential chocolate houses of Paris, brought her exquisite and flamboyant techniques to London and to Mrs. Walker. Together, they opened their first store on Bond Street, offering the finest chocolates and sweet delicacies, all presented in beautiful gift boxes mostly hand made by Mrs. Walker. Exclusively a dark chocolate house only until the late 1970’s, the dark chocolate of Charbonnel et Walker is known for its rich, deep flavor with fine, silky couverture. Today, Charbonnel et Walker chocolates are still hand-made to the traditional recipes of Madame Charbonnel and sold from their shop on Bond Street and other London locations, as well as online.

 

What’s New at Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, Anguilla

October 11th, 2021

A new restaurant, experiences, and flight route make Cap Juluca a must this winter

Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, Anguilla will reopen for the 2021/22 season on October 22 with a new Peruvian restaurant, the only one on the island; two new guest experiences; special programming for Thanksgiving and festive season; and a new direct flight from Miami launching on December 11 with American Airlines.

New Restaurant: Uchu

Taking inspiration from Belmond’s collection of properties in Peru, Uchu, named after the Quechuan word for spice, will feature a menu of contemporary Peruvian cuisine inspired by three of the country’s regions: the coast, the jungle, and the highlands. The restaurant will offer a casual chic seafront dining option by day with a lunch menu based on local seafood, including ceviche, Anguillan crab cakes, and Quinoa Poke. As the sun fades, Uchu will transform into a stylishly elegant lounge complemented with live DJ entertainment.

Highlights on the menu will include Pollo Pachamanquero traditionally prepared in a clay pot; Lomo Saltado, a traditional stir fry; and a Red Snapper Patarashca, originating from Peru’s Amazon region. Don’t miss the Raspadilla Cart – a traditional shaved ice maker offering a cool treat in the afternoon sun – or the Ceviche Bar serving up the freshest seafood. Surrounded by natural wooden tones, lush tropical flora, and the sparkling emerald infinity pool, Uchu seamlessly blends Peru’s culinary diversity with Anguilla’s connection to the sea. The launch rounds out Cap Juluca’s extensive food and beverage options with four restaurants, also including traditional Caribbean at Pimms, Italian in partnership with Cipriani at Cip’s by Cipriani, and the casual beachside Cap Shack, the property’s vintage food truck.

Pisco is at the heart of the new signature cocktail menu. Complemented with fruits and herbs native to Peru, such as lemongrass, cape gooseberry, and eucalyptus, refreshing twists on the classic piscolada and ginger vanilla mojitos will be served – mirroring Uchu’s regional experience. A favorite will be the chicha morada sours, served as popsicles for a fun, contemporary twist on the classic drink originating in the Andean regions. A variety of Peruvian wines and artisanal beers will also be available.

Island Experiences

Cap Juluca is launching two new experiences this season. Honoring Anguilla’s reverence of the sea, Belmond guests can join local third-generation Anguillan fisherman Shawn Romney to learn about the importance fishing has for the local community. Using a traditional yo-yo reel, they will head over to the eastern point of Maundays Bay, a favorite local fishing spot for decades, and cast a line searching for a yellowtail snapper, blue runner, or parrotfish before taking the fresh catch back to Uchu for a private ceviche lunch. The two-hour fishing experience is offered complimentary for up to four guests at a time, excluding the ceviche lunch.

Set off in the property’s sea blue vintage Volkswagen van to explore the island’s 33 beaches. Guided by a Belmond Villa Host, no detail is overlooked for a perfect beach day, outfitted with beach chairs, towels, a cooler stocked with refreshing water, lemonade and frozen fruits, and a polaroid camera to capture candid shots from the day. A gourmet picnic lunch will be set up filled with a la carte menu items such as a smoked salmon poke bowl or lobster sandwich. As the sun sets, guests can opt for a champagne toast and sunset cruise back to Maundays Bay. The experience starts at $800 plus service fees for two people; additional $500 for the optional sunset cruise, depending on available boat.

These two new offers further enhance a robust variety of experiences on property. A playground for water activities, guests can also venture on an offshore trip to the tiny chain of uninhabited islands of Prickly Pear Cays, acquire an open water dive certification, or take part in windsurfing, water skiing, or snorkeling off the coast. As the sun rises, avid bird watchers can join local conservationist Jackie Cestero on a morning walk around Cove Pond, a nesting habitat for over forty species of tropical birds – from the green-throated Carib to the Antillean Bullfinch. Guests looking for a little relaxation can spend the afternoon at the Arawak Spa villa, located just 30 steps away from the water’s edge, featuring a private swimming pool, fitness center, three all-suite treatment villas and private relaxation terraces that overlook the Caribbean Sea. Treatments incorporate local and organic ingredients, including Anguillan salt, balsam bush, clay, and even a touch of Mount Gay rum.

Celebrate by the Sea

A white winter takes on new meaning in Anguilla. Skip the below freezing temperatures and head south for miles of white sand beaches and balmy 80 degrees days. The festive season in Anguilla is centered around great food and family fun, savoring mouth-watering coconut tarts and rum cakes or decorating the native, white flowered five-finger bush. Cap Juluca will host a roster of daily programming for couples and families alike, including wine tastings, sunset sails, tennis lessons, rum tastings, salt-scrub-making classes, an iron man swim along Maundays Bay, and more. For some extra yuletide spirit, there will be a choir performance, Carol of the Bells, on December 24 and a kids gift opening along with eggnog and s’mores on Christmas Day. Then, raise a glass to the new year island-style at the all-white New Year’s Gala – filled with a four-course dinner menu, live music, dancing, and fireworks over the sea.

Private Pool Villas

Cap Juluca’s three- and five-bedroom villas offer optimal seclusion for family and friends traveling this winter. The multi-story pool villas include a full kitchen with a dining atrium for private meals, direct beach access, and a personal freshwater swimming pool. Guests can spread out with 5,540 square feet of space – nestled in a private area of the property’s beachfront. 24/7 villa host service is on hand to assist with arranging group activities from a sunset cruise to tennis lessons, assist with dinner reservations, and share local insight into island experiences.

How To Get There

The trip is made even easier this winter with American Airlines launching a new direct route from Miami to Anguilla on December 11, 2021. This will be the only direct flight from a U.S. destination to the island. There are also flights from major U.S. cities into Anguilla with connection through San Juan. Travelers can also fly into St. Martin and take a 25-minute boat ride to Anguilla. Those arriving via private jet can also fly directly into Anguilla’s Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA).

Entry Requirements: Visitors to Anguilla who are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, must be fully vaccinated (last dose or only dose 21 days prior to arrival) to be granted entry to Anguilla. Visitors must also fill out an application form prior to scheduled travel, including the desired time frame of stay, proof of health insurance, and a negative PCR test within three to five days before arrival. Upon arrival in Anguilla, a PCR test will be administered, and travelers will be asked to remain within the resort until receipt of the negative test result (results are usually received within 6 to 12 hours of testing). Once guests have received the negative rt-PCR test result, they can leave the resort and explore the island at will. There is a cost of $200 per person to cover the testing fees. For more information, please visit https://escape.ivisitanguilla.com/.


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