November 14th, 2011
Located in the heart of one of the world’s most famous coffee-producing mountain ranges, Jamaica’s Blue Mountains, Strawberry Hill Hotel & Spa opened on October 18 following an extensive refurbishment of the property. Listed in the New York Times #1 bestselling book, 1,000 Places To See Before You Die, Strawberry Hill is 3100 feet above sea level and features one of the most awe-inspiring views of the Blue Mountains in one direction as well as the city of Kingston in the other. On a clear day, one can see up to 40 miles from the property’s infinity-edge pool, and at night the city far below becomes a twinkling mirror of the night sky.
The refreshed accommodations feature the property’s original antique furnishings, fully-restored, including romantic canopied four-poster beds, solid mahogany desks, and ornate hand-carved fretwork. Brand new soft-finishes round out the update with exquisite, hand-dyed linens by Royal Hut.
The spa, a focal point of this high-up hideaway, specializes in stress-relief, body and soul rejuvenation, and wellness activities. Whether it’s a nature-curious guest wishing to explore, or one looking to get the blood pumping with an outdoor workout, Strawberry Hill’s lush surrounds provide the ideal playground for both. On offer are hiking trails of varying intensity, grounds that are considered the most exotic tropical gardens on the island that include an organic coffee farm, and the opportunity to see most of Jamaica’s 26 beautiful endemic species of birds.
The exciting new menu at Strawberry Hill’s beloved restaurant features a fresh take on classic Jamaican culinary favorites, highlighting the influence of the island’s multi-ethnic heritage of East Indian, Spanish, British, African, Chinese, and Lebanese settlers who have called Jamaica home since the 15th century. The organic fruits, vegetables, meats, and poultry used in Strawberry Hill’s kitchens are sourced from the property’s own gardens and Chris Blackwell’s personal farm, Pantrepant. Chefs now also serve up delicious local dishes prepared with traditional pimento-infused techniques, using the new stone grill on the property’s main lawn.
Channeling the hotel’s rich music history, acclaimed DJ and Quango label founder, Bruno Guez, produced all new musical playlists for the public spaces that perfectly match the vibe of this cool high-altitude escape. iPods with pre-loaded Bruno Guez playlists are available for guests during their stay.
Nightly rates start at $235, plus tax and service. From now until December 15, guests who book three nights will receive a complimentary de-stress spa treatment per person. Valid for travel completed before December 19, 2011.
For more information visit, www.islandoutpost.com/strawberry_hill 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
August 5th, 2011
So you didn’t make it into the NYC Marathon this year? Don’t fret! Forget running in the cold, start thinking about cool runnings instead and head south for the winter for the Reggae Marathon in Negril, Jamaica on Saturday, December 3, 2011. The Caves, a stunning cliff-side boutique hotel located near the race starting line, has it all wrapped up…
The shabby chic Island Outpost resort is offering runners their specially-created Reggae, Running & Relaxation package. The all-inclusive race-weekend package is complete with a pasta party, race transfers, spa treatment, and celebratory cocktail party. And guests who wish to stay on a little longer will receive 10% off any additional nights booked.
Not ready to go the full 26.2 miles? The Reggae Marathon offers a half marathon and 10K options as well. Registration is still open, so click here to sign up!
Here’s your race weekend itinerary:
Friday, December 2 – The Warm Up
Fly into Montego Bay, head down Lighthouse Road, and arrive at The Caves. You’ll be greeted with their signature Cliffhanger cocktail. (Hmm… one cocktail won’t hurt before the big day, right?). That evening, The Caves will provide roundtrip transfers to the annual “World’s Best Pasta Party” at Couples Swept Away.
Saturday, December 3 – Up Hill…
It’s race day, and the adrenaline is pumping through your body! Rise early for your transfer to the starting line. You’re about to embark on one of the most breathtaking runs of your life – winding along the island’s north coast (on a relatively flat course!)
26.2 miles later, with the endorphins flowing, The Caves will meet you at the finish line for transfer back to the hotel. That evening, let loose in the Blackwell Rum Bar (set in a candlelit cave) at a celebratory cocktail party.
Sunday, December 4th – …Down Dale
Experiencing that stiff “I didn’t even know I had a muscle there!” feeling? Head to the resort’s spa for a Blue Mountain Coffee Scrub to help ease the tension. Relax in the sun, and if you have a little bit of energy left, leap from one of the property’s cliff-edge jumping points (the highest is 30 feet) into the impossibly blue waters, or take a leisurely snorkeling tour through the limestone grottos.
Monday, December 5th – The Finish Line
Reggae? Check! Running? Check! Rest and relaxation? Check, check! Now it’s time to check out… But for those who can’t tear themselves away from The Caves, extra nights can be booked with a special 10% discount.
REGGAE, RUNNING & RELAXATION PACKAGE DETAILS:
DATES: Friday, December 2nd – Monday, December 5
RATE:
- $1,500 per room, based on double occupancy (TOTAL SAVINGS = $300!)
- 10% off rack rate for any additional nights booked
INCLUDES:
- All food and beverage
- Tax and gratuity
- Signature welcome cocktail
- Round-trip transfers from The Caves to the annual pre-race “World’s Best Pasta Party”
- Round-trip race day transfers between The Caves and the start/finish lines
- Post-race celebratory cocktail party at Blackwell Rum Bar
- Blue Mountain Coffee Scrub at the property’s Aveda Concept Spa
CONDITIONS:
- Bookings accepted now through December 1
- Based on availability
- Airport transfers not included
For more information, visit www.islandoutpost.com/the_caves or call 1.800.Outpost
July 25th, 2011
Need a vacation? Black Tomato is offering an amazing prize that will make you feel good inside and out. Enter here to win a trip to Jamaica at the incredibly chic and Bohemian Jakes AND a three-day pre-trip BluePrintCleanse for you and your travel partner so you arrive beach bod ready. After sipping on six fruit and vegetable juices daily for three days, arrive at an Oceanfront Cottage for a four night stay, complete with a seaside scrub at the resort’s Driftwood Spa, courtesy of Black Tomato. Guests can explore the beautiful YS Waterfalls, lounge on the beach, or take a boat trip to the Pelican Bar (situated on a sand bar almost a mile out to sea). After a three-day juice cleanse that jerk chicken and watermelon sorbet served up at Jakes will taste like manna from heaven!
July 22nd, 2011
Feel like a hair dryer is blowing directly into your face each time you step outside? Air conditioner ailing amid the 100 degree temperatures? And are you afraid that if you stand in front of your open freezer door one more time your electricity bill may look more like your monthly rent? Jakes in Jamaica feels your pain and has decided to share the recipe for their homemade sorbets, which launched this month at the chic bohemian resort.
Coming to the rescue of heat wave sufferers, Jakes offers the icy treat in unique flavors such as the island-authentic Soursop*, refreshing Cucumber & Ginger, as well as fruity classics, watermelon and passion fruit. (All produce used is grown locally in the Treasure beach community.)
If you can’t make it to Jamaica this weekend, follow these simple steps to create your own frosty clouds of Jakes-tastic sorbet bliss.
Jakes Homemade Watermelon Sorbet
1. Place following ingredients into a mixing bowl:
- 4 cups of seeded watermelon (We recommend buying organic. Jakes uses only local produce, and we want this to taste as close to the real deal as possible!)
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/2 lemon (peeled)
- 4 cups of ice
2. Blend at low and increase to high for 30 seconds until stiff peaks form. Serve immediately.
3. Tweet (@jakeshotel) a photo or comment about your creation (ours is below!).
With rates at Jakes starting at $95 per night this summer, there’s no reason not to head down to the island’s South Coast. It may be hot there too but it’s hardly a case of “out of the frying pan, into the fire” … I think we can all agree that taking a dip in the Caribbean Sea is the best way to beat the heat!
*What exactly is Soursop? Native to the Caribbean, this funny fruit may be prickly and green on the outside but inside is an edible white pulp with a is sweetly tropical flavor.
For reservations call 1.800.Outpost or visit jakeshotel.com
July 8th, 2011
The votes are in and Jamaica has been named “Best Island” by Beach Tomato’s People Choice Awards. We can’t say we’re not surprised … the island is known around the world for its breathtaking beaches, turquoise waters and rich culture (this was the birthplace of Bob Marley and reggae music after all!)
Jamaica has long been a beautiful island getaway, and this summer it’s definitely the place to be! With off season rates starting as low as $95 a night at hotels like Jakes in Treasure Beach, it’s now more accessible than ever. Take a trip down to Jamaica this summer and see what all the buzz is about! If a trip isn’t in your near future, follow Island Outpost hotels (@iohotels) on Twitter for all the deets on island happenings.
… And be sure to check out the complete list of Beach Tomato’s People’s Choice Winners here.
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 10th, 2011
On February 19th Jakes farm dinner in Treasure Beach, Jamaica is for the bees. New York Times-featured bee keeper, Cerise Mayo, is teaming up with local bee keepers from the parish of St. Elizabeth (a parish is to Jamaica as a state is to America) to craft a honey-inspired menu that is sure to lure any sweet tooth. The four-course dinner with wine pairings will start with cocktails at 5pm and take place in a working field on a local farm. As if the warm night air isn’t enough – guests get to enjoy their honeyed entrees under a full moon!
If you’re unable to join us in February, upcoming Farm Dinner dates include March 19, April 16, May 14 and June 11. Rates for the dinner are US$95/person including transfers. Guests can reserve their spot by calling Jakes at (876) 965.3000.