November 3rd, 2011
Nantucket Town is about as traditional New England as it gets – grey shingled buildings line the cobblestone streets, ice cream parlors and general stores flourish and there is not a traffic light in sight. Add Victorian-appareled carolers, hot cider and cornbread, and Santa Claus parading down Main Street and it reads just like the pages out of a storybook.
Nantucket Island fetes the entire holiday season with Nantucket Noel, a month-long celebration organized by the Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce. The highlight event is the Annual Christmas Stroll Weekend that takes place December 2-4, 2011. Stores, shops, and restaurants open their doors for holidays shoppers, carolers sing favorite holiday tunes, and Santa Claus arrives via a Coast Guard Vessel. This is an authentic experience not to be missed! (Especially for shoppers looking for the perfect present – almost everything on the island is on sale at this time to make way for new merchandise coming in for the following season.)
Several Nantucket Island Resorts properties are open for the Stroll Weekend, including the historic and centrally located Jared Coffin House, the iconic White Elephant, The Cottages and Lofts at the Boat Basin, and the luxurious White Elephant Hotel Residences. These properties offer a variety of cozy accommodations for visitors to the island.
September 22nd, 2011
JetBlue is offering roundtrip flights New York (JFK)/Nantucket (ACK) for just $98 from now until October 10. Take advantage of this great deal and enjoy everything Nantucket has to offer in the fall – beautiful autumn weather, dwindling crowds, and amazingly low hotel rates at Nantucket Island Resorts! Schedule your trip around the Nantucket’s Cranberry Festival, October 7-9, for a chance to see the island’s famous Windswept Cranberry Bog, one of the few certified organic bogs in the county and open for just a short time in October when berries are harvested. Indulge in delicious cranberry creations and enjoy the seasonal bog tours, hay rides, and sheep-shearing. Burn off those extra calories with a bike ride down the recently resurfaced 6.4 miles of bike paths, tee off on Nantucket’s top-notch Sankaty Head golf course, or simply wander the cobblestone streets lined with pre-Civil War architecture. Not only is the airfare low, the rates at some of Nantucket’s most popular hotels are also reduced throughout the fall, making a Nantucket trip a no-brainer.
- The Cottages & Lofts at the Boat Basin from $175 | Enjoy the views of the harbor from the docks, where The Cottages are located on three wharves jutting out into Nantucket Harbor.
- White Elephant from $195 | Sip on delicious cocktails on the lawn overlooking the harbor (Lobster Bloody Mary, anyone?)
- The Wauwinet from $225 | Play a game of tennis, or engage in a cooking class with Chef Kyle Zachary in the kitchen of TOPPER’S restaurant.
- White Elephant Hotel Residences from $350 | Enjoy all of the complimentary extras that the Residences offers, including access to the hotel’s private swimming pool (in season) with daily fruit and ice cream service.
- Jared Coffin House from $125 | Relax just steps away from Nantucket’s Main Street in this historic inn’s newly decorated guest rooms. Additionally, guests of the Jared Coffin House receive 10 percent discount on brunch at the Brick Bistro, part of the Jared Coffin House.
August 16th, 2011
After Labor Day we’ll be putting away all our summer whites but not so fast with those Nantucket Reds, they’re alright! While Nantucket conjures images of quintessential New England summers and those famed weathered-looking pants, we recommend donning the slacks this autumn and heading to the Grey Lady. Forget high season crowds, in the fall the masses have dispersed and the rates have dropped. If that alone is not reason enough, here are another 14 Reasons to visit Nantucket in the fall.
1. Value
Fall rates at hotels on the island are greatly reduced in September, October, and November. For example, at the iconic White Elephant the lowest midweek July rate available is $550, while in September guests can stay overnight for as little as $375 with the Hot Dates, Cool Rates promotion.
2. Nantucket Restaurant Week , September 26-October 2, 2011
For a small island, Nantucket has a wide variety of renowned culinary establishments that include the new Brick Bistro, award-winning TOPPER’S, and the harborside Brant Point Grill, home to the Lobster Bloody. During restaurant week, three course dinners will be offered at these and other top Nantucket eateries from $25 – $45.
3. Nantucket Historical Association’s Harvest Fair, October 2011
Celebrate fall harvest at the Old Mill and learn about Nantucket’s agricultural heritage, play lively colonial games, and make traditional crafts such as cornhusk dolls or beeswax candles.
4. The Nantucket Project, September 30-October 2, 2011
Unlike crowded, impersonal meetings-of-the-minds like TED and the Aspen Institute, the first Nantucket Project will gather amazing speakers including Ed Crane, founder and President of the CATO Institute, a libertarian think tank, and Craig Ventor, biologist and entrepreneur best known for being among the first to sequence the human genome, for an intimate weekend of stimulating lectures and conversation held at the White Elephant.
5. Nantucket Conservation Foundation’s Cranberry Festival, October 8, 2011
Visit Nantucket’s famous cranberry bogs, generally closed to the public but open for a short time in October just when the berries are harvested. Partake in bog tours, hay rides, sheep-shearing, and, of course, fresh berries and delicious cranberry confections.
6. Golf
Nantucket’s top-notch Sankaty Head Golf Club’s coveted ocean views and links-style holes are usually only available to members. In the off season (October-May), for a fee, anyone can tee off.
7. Nantucket Slam, Cystic Fibrosis Benefit, September 11-13, 2011
This all-inclusive, two-day, competitive catch and release tournament is two days of competitive fishing for Bluefish, Bonito, Striped Bass, and Atlantic Bonito/False Albacore. To get a “Slam,” one must catch three of a designated species in the same day. All proceeds benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
8. Scenic Hiking and Biking
Rent a bike and roll down the recently resurfaced 6.4 miles of bike paths of Nantucket and check out the beautiful fall foliage. Bike rentals typically cost around $30/day; complimentary bikes are available for guests of White Elephant Hotel Residences, The Cottages & Lofts at the Boat Basin, and The Wauwinet.
9. Spooky Halloween at haunted Jared Coffin House
Every year kids can dress up and go trick-or-treating at the shops and stores lining Main Street. Enjoy a super spooky stay on Nantucket at the Jared Coffin House, said to be haunted by the ghost of the successful 19th century ship-owner after whom the house was named. Other ghosts are rumored to roam the halls and rooms of this historic property – room rates start at $125 October 23-31.
10. ACK Pink with Nantucket Island Resorts for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, October 2011
For the month of October, Nantucket Island Resorts will be donating $1 from every room night bought to the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides against Breast Cancer charity. In addition, guests booking a stay during the weekend of October 14-16 will have the opportunity to participate on the Nantucket Island Resorts-sponsored team during Nantucket’s Making Strides against Breast Cancer Walk on Sunday, October 16. Nantucket Island Resorts has committed to a $1000 donation for the Breast Cancer Walk. Those who join the team will receive a complimentary team tee-shirt. Additionally, proceeds from themed cocktails and treats on offer at The Wauwinet, the White Elephant, the White Elephant Hotel Residences, and Jared Coffin House will be donated to the cause.
11. Inexpensive Airfare
Think getting to Nantucket is difficult and pricey? Phooey! Fly Jet Blue direct from New York City to Nantucket starting at $69 this September.
12. Romance
If you took the kids to Nantucket this summer, come back in the fall without the little ones and stay at the romantic Wauwinet (open until October 29). The 32-room inn doesn’t allow children under 12, so there’s no chance of having a screaming baby just down the hall. Rates at this luxury inn start at just $225 in October.
13. Traditional New England Thanksgiving
Visit the state where the original Thanksgiving took place. The White Elephant’s Brant Point Grill hosts a special Thanksgiving buffet with all the comfort foods you’d expect at your grandmother’s house without all the cooking and dirty dishes. Brave souls can participate in the 10th Annual Turkey Plunge on Children’s Beach, where hundreds jump into cold Nantucket Harbor on Thanksgiving morning.
14. Fall isn’t all… Come in December for Christmas Stroll! December 2-5, 2011
Nantucket Island celebrates the entire holiday season with Nantucket Noel, a month-long celebration organized by the Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce that runs November 25-December 31. The highlight event is the Annual Christmas Stroll Weekend. Stores, shops, and restaurants open their doors for holidays shoppers, carolers sing favorite holiday tunes, and Santa Claus arrives via a Coast Guard Vessel. This is an authentic experience not to be missed! Several Nantucket Island Resorts properties are open for the Stroll Weekend, including the historic and centrally located Jared Coffin House, the iconic White Elephant, and the luxurious White Elephant Hotel Residences. These properties offer a variety of cozy accommodations for visitors to the island.
July 7th, 2011
Why settle for less than the best when you don’t have to? Travel + Leisure makes finding the very best in travel a whole lot easier with their annual World’s Best Awards list. This year, 13 of our favorite hotels and resorts, not to mention our best-loved cruise line and spa brand, all made the list. Some properties even walked away with awards in multiple categories! Now that is something to celebrate!
Anantara Golden Triangle
#15, Top Resorts in Asia
#4, Top Family Hotels in Asia
#5, Top Hotel Spas in Asia
Crystal Cruises
#1, Top Large-Ship Cruise Lines
The Peninsula’s ESPA Spa
#9, Top Hotel Spas in US and Canada
Palacio Duhau Park Hyatt Buenos Aires
#1, Top City Hotels in Central and South America
#19, Top 100 Hotels Overall
Park Hyatt Beaver Creek
#41, Top Family Hotels in U.S. and Canada
Park Hyatt Chicago
#45, Top Large Cities Hotel in US/Canada (100 rooms or more)
Park Hyatt Milan
#52, Top 100 Hotels Overall
#4, Top Large City Hotels in Europe
Park Hyatt Melbourne
#2, Top City Hotels in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific
Park Hyatt Mendoza
#4, Top City Hotels in Central and South America
Park Hyatt Saigon
#10, Top City Hotels in Asia
Park Hyatt Sydney
#4, Top City Hotels in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific
Parrot Cay
#25, Top Resorts in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas
The Wauwinet
#7, Top Inns in US/Canada (fewer than 40 rooms)
Uma Paro
#12, Top Resorts in Asia
White Elephant
#19, Top Family Hotels in U.S. and Canada
Congrats to all of the winners!
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
May 17th, 2011
Afraid the Easter Bunny won’t know where to find you if you’re away? We guarantee he’ll be drawn to these great Easter celebrations, so pack those bags and get ready to eat some jelly beans and chocolate eggs. Whether near (Nantucket, Washington D.C., Toronto) or far (Paris, Provence, Moscow), these spots are perfect to ring in the spring.
NEAR
Nantucket Island Resorts
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket Island Resorts, including Jared Coffin House (starting at $125), White Elephant (starting at $195), The Cottages & Lofts (starting at $200), and White Elephant Hotel Residences (starting at $350 for guestroom or $500 for residence)
Easter Happenings: Amazing rates at each of the properties over Easter Weekend – and a delicious brunch at the Brant Point Grill featuring Easter Basket Workshops and Egg Hunts!
The Offer: Spend a great family weekend on Nantucket with plenty of amusement for the little ones. The following will be happening at the White Elephant. For event and brunch reservations, please call 508.228.1320.
- Saturday, April 23 – Easter Basket Workshop at 1 pm and 3 pm. Reservations required; $5 per child; open to the public
- Sunday, April 24 – Easter Brunch with Raw Bar at Brant Point Grill – $42 adults; $21 children
- Sunday, April 24 – Easter Egg Hunts – 11 am and 2 pm with a special guest on the White Elephant Harborside Lawn
Subject to availability. Excludes room tax.
Park Hyatt Washington D.C.
Washington, D.C.
A tony Washington DC design and foodie favorite in the fashionable West End Georgetown neighborhood.
Easter Happenings: A three-course, buffet-style brunch from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm. Highlights include sunnyside eggs with cod cakes and spicy buttermilk sauce; roasted leg of lamb with rosemary jus and shallots; local rockfish with pea sauce and morels; and Belgian Liege waffle with Mountain Huckleberry Marmalade.
The Offer: $90 per person and $45 for children between six and 12; children under six years of age are welcome on a complimentary basis.
Park Hyatt Toronto
Toronto, Ontario
Set in fashionable Yorkville just across the street from the Royal Ontario Museum and five minutes from the theater and financial districts, Park Hyatt Toronto offers a contemporary city getaway, with 336 guestrooms and the award-winning Stillwater Spa.
Easter Happenings: Relax in comfort with Park Hyatt Toronto’s Awaken at The Park package: overnight accommodations and full breakfast for two in the acclaimed Annona Restaurant. Annona is also offering an Easter Brunch Prix Fixe and an Easter Dinner Prix Fixe.
The Offer: The Awaken package is available from Friday, April 22 until Monday, April 25 starting at $208. Three course brunch menu at Annona is $71 per person, while the three course dinner is $52 per person.
FAR
Pavillon de la Reine
Paris, France
This impossibly chic and charming hotel is located on the historic Place des Vosges in the Marais. Blooming with life in the spring season, the ivy-clad 54 bedroom Pavillon de la Reine was originally built in the 1600s as part of the Place Royale by King Henri IV.
Easter Happenings: Guests are welcomed with a chocolate egg and bottle of champagne upon arrival. Following an egg painting session, kids will enjoy running throughout the private courtyard on the quest for chocolate eggs. The Easter weekend package also includes brunch for two.
The Offer: Superior rooms start at 390 euros per night, Junior or Duplex Suite start at €550 ($792 USD) per night.
Le Pavillon des Lettres
Paris, France
The new literature-inspired hotel offers 26 rooms – each devoted to a letter of the alphabet and an international author corresponding to that letter (think S for Shakespeare, V for Voltaire…)
Easter Happenings: A chocolate egg, bottle of French white wine, and a book of the best places to eat chocolate will be waiting in your room upon arrival. Enjoy brunch for two on Easter morning in the Salon amongst the hotel’s literary greats!
The Offer: Deluxe rooms start at €360 ($518 USD) per night.
Hotel Crillon le Brave
Provence, France
The refined rustic Hotel Crillon le Brave is one of France’s most notable boutique hotels. Just 90 minutes North of Marseille, its consists of seven beautifully restored stone houses dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, which are linked by bridges, cobblestone walkways, and hidden courtyards.
Easter Happenings: While the kids participate in entertaining French lessons, learn to make French desserts, and visit a local boulangerie and olive oil mill, parents can enjoy wine tastings and spa treatments.
The Offer: The Provençal Family adventure package is offered April 17-22 and April 25-29 and costs €2,290 ($3,297 USD) for a family of four.
Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow
Moscow, Russia
While “egg hunt in Russia” might inspire thoughts of “finally, a chance to find those missing eight Fabergé eggs,” Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow is offering an even sweeter deal. Built on the former site of Hotel Armenia, this hotel combines classic Armenian and Russian design elements, and is located within immediate vicinity of Moscow’s most famous landmarks, including the Bolshoi Theatre, the Kremlin, Red Square, and Saint Basil’s Cathedral.
Easter Happenings: Free chocolate eggs will be given to take home at Easter Sunday Brunch on April 24th. Executive chef Guillaume Joly will be whipping up traditional Easter dishes like kulich, paskha, roasted leg of lamb, and much more at The Park Restaurant. For children, an egg hunt (yes, of the chocolate kind) will take place, with “sweet” prizes to be won.
The Offer: RUB 3,900 per person ($138 USD), including VAT and service charges.
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 4th, 2011
Nantucket Island Resort’s Hot Dates, Cool Rates are back! Guests who book Nantucket vacations by February 18 not only get their first choice of Hot Dates but also receive the lowest rate of the season with the Hot Dates, Cool Rates Guarantee.
Other benefits to booking early include a dinner credit ($25 on $100 spend, or $50 on $150 spend) and two $25 spa treatment credits.
The Hot Dates, Cool Rates for 2011:
- Jared Coffin House from $125 | Relax just steps away from Nantucket’s Main Street in this historic inn’s newly decorated guest rooms.
- The Cottages & Lofts at the Boat Basin from $175 | Enjoy the views of the harbor from the docks, where The Cottages are located on three wharves jutting out into Nantucket Harbor. *Named Best Resort Location in the U.S. on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2011 Gold List*
- White Elephant from $195 | Sip on delicious cocktails on the lawn overlooking the harbor (Lobster Bloody Mary, anyone?) *Voted #1 Resort in Massachusetts in Travel + Leisure’s 2011 World’s Best Awards*
- The Wauwinet from $225 | Play a game of tennis, take a boat ride on The Wauwinet Lady from late-June to mid-September, or engage in a cooking class with Chef Kyle Zachary in the kitchen of TOPPER’S restaurant. *Named 3rd Top U.S. Small Hotel in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards*
- White Elephant Hotel Residences from $350 | Enjoy all of the complimentary extras that the Residences offers, including access to the hotel’s private swimming pool (in season) with daily fruit and ice cream service.
Nantucket Island Resorts also offers add-on packages at any of their hotels to make your Nantucket experience as unforgettable as possible – these include family, couple, babymoon, girlfriend, and golf packages, or more “Uniquely Nantucket” activities like scalloping, lobstering, and seal- or whale-watching. Or choose to visit during one of Nantucket’s annual festivals including Daffodil Festival weekend (April 30-May 1), Wine Festival weekend (May 18-22), and the Nantucket Film Festival (June 22-26).
To book online, visit the website of the Nantucket Island Resorts property of your choice and enter the booking code GTDLOW, or call 800.ISLANDS (800.475.2637) or 508.325.1000 and mention booking code GTDLOW.
October 21st, 2010
The votes are in! Nantucket Island Resorts has announced the results of its first video sweepstakes, ‘Flip Out on Nantucket.’ Visitors were invited to submit one-minute long video clips made during their summer 2010 stay on Nantucket for the chance to win a grand prize vacation valued at $15,000.
Of the many videos submitted during the May 26 – September 6 entry period, Ben and Carly Kinberg’s award-winning video entitled ‘Nan-Took-It’ was one of 10 finalist videos selected by Nantucket Island Resorts’ panel of judges. Voting on the top 10 videos was then opened to the public for a 15-day voting period in which over 2,000 votes were cast. After all votes were tallied, the Kinberg’s ‘Nan-Took-It’ video was determined the winner receiving nearly 500 votes!
The lucky Kinberg couple stayed at the White Elephant for their honeymoon in May 2010. During their stay, Kinberg captured a video of a seagull ‘stealing’ a muffin from his wife while relaxing on the hotel’s harborside lawn. When reminiscing on their Nantucket vacation later in the summer, the couple came across details of the video contest on the White Elephant website and quickly uploaded their video for consideration.
The couple plan to return to Nantucket in June 2011 to claim their grand prize, which consists of a five-night stay at a Nantucket Island Resorts property along with two dinners, two spa treatments, jeep rental, harbor cruise, and $1,000 gift card.
Other prize winners included Chris Gale of New York, NY, and Sean O’Neill of Wellesley, MA. Runner-up Gale was awarded a $500 gift card for his ‘Mr Bear’s Nantucket Visit’ video, and O’Neill received an honorable mention prize of a $250 gift card for his ‘Griswold’s NIR Experience’ video.
Nantucket Island Resorts is a collection of premier hotels on Nantucket including The Wauwinet, White Elephant, White Elephant Hotel Residences, Jared Coffin House, The Cottages & Lofts at the Boat Basin, and Nantucket Boat Basin.
September 30th, 2010
Looking for something a little different for Halloween? Maybe a ghoulish puppy party or a tasty celebration of Dia de Muertos will do the trick. Go hunting for ghosts or carve a star pumpkin and get in the holiday spirit.
Washington, D.C.
Where: Park Hyatt Washington D.C.
What: Halloween Doggy Happy Hour
When: October 20, 2010
Why: Your tail will be waggin’ at the swanky DC hotel’s Halloween-themed pet costume party. Pooch-loving guests and visitors can strut their dressed dogs down the red carpet before mingling for doggy happy hour. Celebrate Halloween with your four-legged friend in comfort as part of their Paws at the Park package, available year round. (Above are images of Doggy Happy Hour; the first Halloween Doggy Happy Hour is happening October 20 with dressed up pooches.)
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