November 18th, 2010
If you have a fear of what’s below you in the ocean, a “new” (man-made and man-shaped) reef in Mexico might not be the place to conquer it. However, if you want to swim among statues and see the latest in coral reef restoration efforts, this is your spot… an artificial reef off the east coast of Mexico made entirely from human statues. Mastermind behind this installment is British artist, Jason de Caires Taylor, who used local Mexican residents to create the ‘life casts’ and shaped each of the 350 statues from materials with a neutral pH to encourage coral growth.
Creepy or awesome?
November 17th, 2010
These two got engaged on a Kenyan safari, so we’re sure the honeymoon will be equally as cool and unique. Here are our picks for the Royal Honeymoon.
CARIBBEAN
Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos
The private isle is the ultimate place to hide away from the cameras and unwind after all of the pomp and circumstance of a royal wedding.
Royal Treatment: Rent out the COMO Shambhala Cottage for a night of Champagne, spa treatments, and candlelit dining.
Rosewood Mayakobá, Mexico
Let loose after escaping to the beautiful Mexican Riviera hotel and test tequilas recommended by the resident tequila sommelier.
Royal Treatment: With Mayasutra, newlyweds can get intimate with a Moonlight Tantric Yoga class and a couples massage instruction session followed by 30 minutes of “alone time”.
Geejam, Jamaica
No stranger to celebrities, the luxury property was originally a residential recording studio where the likes of No Doubt and Amy Winehouse laid down some tracks.
Royal Treatment: Stay at the amazing Sanwood villa designed by British architect Anthony Wade in the 60s and relax in the private pool or bask in the Jamaican sun and take in the views on the sun deck.
GoldenEye, Jamaica
Next to the man in line for the throne, James Bond might be the most enviable Brit we know, so vacationing at this Jamaican hideaway where Fleming penned all the Bond books would be quite fitting.
Royal Treatment: Stay in the Fleming Villa for a private beach and the spirit of James Bond lingering in the air and compelling the swilling of shaken-not-stirred martinis.
The Caves, Jamaica
Dodge the paparazzi at the romantic Caribbean resort where couple feeling like a dip can leap off a cliff for a private swim.
Royal Treatment: It doesn’t get much more private than a candlelit dinner for two in a hidden cave looking out on the water.
Strawberry Hill, Jamaica
Following in his parents’ footsteps, William would love to vacation at this mountain resort where, besides Charles and Diana, the guests list boasts Mick Jagger and Bob Marley.
Royal Treatment: Get away from the photographers 3,100 feet above sea level and take in the sweeping views from the Blue Mountains.
Jakes, Jamaica
Kick off those shoes and lose the fancy cap; this charming seaside resort is the perfect antidote to structured courtly life.
Royal Treatment: Enjoy a private yoga session by starlight and listen to the waves.
NANTUCKET
White Elephant, Nantucket
What’s more fitting for English newlyweds than a trip to New England? This harborside Nantucket hotel is a classic (and classy) spot for postnuptial bonding.
Royal Treatment: Only on Nantucket (at Brant Point Grill) does a Bloody Mary come equipped with lobster.
THAILAND
Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa, Chiang Rai, Thailand
The luxurious Thai resort is tucked away in the beautiful Golden Triangle, away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.
Royal Treatment: Take a romantic ride atop an elephant – sure beats a limo!
Anantara Phuket Villas, Phuket, Thailand
After the long awaited ‘I do,’ couples can celebrate the occasion with a wide selection of live entertainment – including a seven-piece band at this Thai property.
Royal Treatment: Hidden in the mangroves, the lavish villas have a 355 ft. sq. private pool, outdoor showers, and a terrazzo tub built to accommodate two (and only two).
MALDIVES
Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa and Anantara Veli Resort & Spa, Maldives
These romantic spots embody what a honeymoon should be – nothing but sun, water, sand, and a newlywed couple pampered and sunkissed.
Royal Treatment: Answer to only your whims on a private a romantic island getaway with Anantara Dhigu, Veli, Naladhu, and the soon-to-be, Anantara Kihavah Villas opening in early 2011. The best part about Anantara in the Maldives is that at whatever resort couples choose to stay, free transfer is available between islands to enjoy the benefits of all.
Cocoa Island, Maldives
The private island resort in the South Male Atoll is just over 1000 feet long and is surrounded by pristine, turquoise water.
Royal Treatment: Honeymooners get a complimentary sunset cruise with vino and an antipasti plate.
SOUTH ASIABhutan
Uma Paro,
No tabloid photographers here; the remote mountain lodge is a great spot from which to explore Bhutan’s monasteries and temples and get spiritually in tune before returning to palace life.
Royal Treatment: After trekking through the country by bike or raft, couples can be pampered in the COMO Shambhala Retreat.
INDONESIA
Uma Ubud, Bali
The luxurious retreat set in the tangled jungle is perfect for the couple that likes an exotic locale without giving up modern comforts.
Royal Treatment: The COMO Suite allows guests to have spa treatments in private in its private treatment area.
High Seas
Crystal Cruises
Couples can sail away on a luxurious cruise to spots around the globe – no need to pick just one. Romantic “must-sees” include Rome, Mykonos, and Casablanca, to name a few.
Royal Treatment: Enjoy a Couples Massage in the Feng-Shui inspired Crystal Spa or cozy up in the back row of the Hollywood Movie Theater and watch a first-run movie while sipping champagne.
October 7th, 2010
Don’t miss the beautiful pictures and property details of Rosewood Mayakobá in the November 2010 issue of Architectural Digest!
A mini-vacation for your mind. Happy reading!
October 7th, 2010
While some of our favorite Mexican beverages will always be a margarita on the rocks or an iced Corona, there’s a new (even though it’s been around over 400 years) Mexican drink to try – wine!
Jesuits first planted the vines in 1597, but world-class winemaking has been thriving since the late 1980s. Among the top are Adobe Guadalupe’s Serafiel, a captivating blend of cabernet and syrah that is one of Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands favorites and Casa de Piedra’s Bordeaux, which benefits from the Baja valley’s warm days and cool nights. Other noteworthy bottles include Villa Montefiari’s Montepulciano and the sauvignon blanc from Monte Xanic; and Baron Balche’s unique merlot blend.
All in all, there are about 50 vineyards in Mexico producing a few hundred cases per year. With no mixing regulations like France and Italy, the bottles and flavors are open to experimentation and the results are a fun new taste in wine, South of the Border style.
After trying the wine, travelers can stop by the Tequila Library at Rosewood Mayakobá to sample over 100 various tequilas from all over the country. The resident tequila sommelier offers pairings and selections from some of the finest Mexican labels. After all, you can’t go drinking in Mexico and skip the tequila.
August 12th, 2010
AMPR ticker tape…AMPR ticker tape…AMPR ticker tape…AMPR ticker tape… AMPR ticker tape…
Hot off the press…
AUGUST 2010
Here is our monthly news in tweetable form.
New and Notable
Hotel Parq Central
- Up up and away for #BalloonFestival! #HotelParqCentral opens on 9/23/10. Rates starting at $179/night including breakfast and other treats.
Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas
- #AnantaraBophut in Koh Samui, #Thailand will be getting an upgrade! And we have the pics (http://bit.ly/cSwDte) to prove it!
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July 23rd, 2010
What’s new in the Caribbean? LOTS! Our hot list includes new villa rentals in Turks & Caicos, a glamorous new hotel, authentic Farm Dinners and Reggaelates (the new fitness craze) all happening in Jamaica, as well as moonlight yoga classes in Mexico, and an exclusive jazz-themed Caribbean cruise itinerary. Read on to find out more…
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July 21st, 2010
Honeymooners taking part in Rosewood Mayakobá’s Honeymoon Mayan Romance may eventually need to pull themselves away from all of the private moonlight Tantric Yoga sessions and romantic moonlight couples’ massages (complete with a couple’s massage tutorial)…. While this package does include a daytime snorkeling trip among the Mayan ruins, the Yucatan Peninsula is a marvelous place to explore for more than just a quick dip. The nearby Coba ruin is a thrill for history buffs and the merely curious alike. Considered to have been one of the largest Mayan cities, it is awe-inspiring in its setting of dense forest and shallow lakes. Rent bikes at the entrance and make a day of touring the vast park and snapping photos of the impressive, towering ruins. This ancient marvel is a perfect daytrip getaway!
March 19th, 2010
The high season for weddings has begun! Below find a round-up of honeymoon packages to suit all kinds of couples, from the couple who wants to just do nothing together to the couple that wants to do everything together.
For the laidback couple: beach time
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Rosewood Mayakoba knows that running around town to pick up save the dates, sample wedding cakes and find the perfect dress is hard work, even with the help of a great wedding planner or maid of honor so the five-night “Honeymoon Mayan Romance” package begins with top-shelf tequila upon arrival, and is all about chilling out. Take a Tantric Yoga class and enjoy a Moonlight Massage for two on your suite terrace. Glory in your private plunge pool and butler and end the day in an Aroma Bath with champagne and chocolate. You’ll also get a Couple’s Massage instruction session with 30 minutes of “alone time.” Let stress slip away at this gorgeous resort, nestled between the Yucatán jungle and Caribbean Sea that marries high design with serious luxury. Rates start at $1152 per night.
Visit www.rosewoodmayakoba.com or 888-ROSEWOOD for more details.
Maldives
At Naladhu, the Island Romance package begins before you even reach the property. A speedboat will meet you as you leave the airport to take you directly to this Maldivian island resort. A House Master will lead you to your private house, where Champagne cocktails and fruit are waiting. Spend the day by the pool or snorkeling in the reef then relax with a complimentary coconut milk bath for two. As if that wasn’t enough, chocolate cake to share is included! Nightly rates for the Island Romance package begin at $1,475 per night with a four-night minimum (rate excludes service charge and Maldivian government bed tax).
For the stress-crazed couple: inner peace
Bali
Begin your journey together in Bali’s spiritual heartland, at the COMO Shambhala Estate, with a Wellness Program tailored to your needs. Give your marriage the brightest possible beginning by learning how to stress-battling techniques based on the philosophies of Yoga, Chi Kung and Tai Chi. Then let the experts in holistic healthcare go to work using massage, acupuncture, Ayurvedic therapy and hydrotherapy (using water from the Estate’s sacred, mineral-rich spring). Rates begin at $2,100 for a three night Stress Management program in a Garden Room. Visit http://www.cse.como.bz/rates-2010 for more details.
Turks & Caicos
Stay at Parrot Cay and simply ‘be’ as a couple in one of the few pristine places in the Caribbean: a 1,000-acre private island where the spacious, teak-filled bedrooms spill out onto a mile of powder soft beach. Recover from the pre-wedding jitters with complimentary extras like Pilates and yoga classes and use of windsurf boards and catamarans. A seven-night Parrot Cay Honeymoon also includes 60-minute couples massage, a candlelit dinner in the COMO Shambhala Cottage and a bottle of champagne on arrival. (BONUS: The COMO Shambhala Stress Management program is available here as well!) Rates start at $6,012 per couple.
For the classic couple: New England whimsy
Nantucket, Massachusetts
The Wauwinet, a natural, stunning waterfront setting in Nantucket, is perfect for the couple that doesn’t want to go stray too far from home. Newlyweds can stay at one of the Wauwinet’s charming garden cottages, just slightly removed from the main buildings. Arrive at the hotel via the Wauwinet Lady, the hotel’s private charter, then indulge in couples treatments at The Spa by the Sea. With Nantucket Island Resort’s Hot Dates, Cool Rates promotion, rates at the Wauwinet start at $225 for 2010.
For the foodie couple: Southwest seasoning
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Stay at the Inn on the Alameda and explore our oldest capital city’s culinary and cultural delights for your honeymoon. With the Taste the City Different package, couples can take a three-hour walking tour around beautiful and historic Santa Fe with a chef guide to introduce you to the city’s most unique dining destinations. The next day, see who’s got better mincing skills with a cooking class and lunch to follow. When you’ve had your fill, the hotel’s Kiva fireplaces, triple-sheeted beds, and afternoon wine and cheese will be waiting. Don’t forget to bring home those authentic Southwestern recipes ‘por dos.’ Rates begin at $675 for a three-night package.
For the adventurous couple: exotic escapades
Bhutan
Honeymoon in the largely unspoiled kingdom of Bhutan, and participate in adventurous activities that include rafting, archery, camping and fly-fishing at Uma Paro. Then hit the road with biking and trekking courses that visit local monasteries and villages for a slice of culture. And don’t forget, the Bhutanese measure their wealth in Gross National Happiness, so the joy of recently married duos will certainly spike that statistic! Stay in a Como Suite and you’ll have a stunning 180 degree view of the Paro Valley. Rates start at $595 per night.
Chiang Saen, Thailand
High in the rolling hills of Thailand’s north, Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa is the perfect locale for the adventurous honeymooners to hang their hats before setting off for an unforgettable adventure. Never a dull moment at the resort, couples can learn to ride, bathe, and feed Thai Asian elephants at the on-site elephant camp. Choose the Mahout Discovery package for a three-day intensive mahout training course and learn all the sublties of elephant driving, or partake on a tri-country expedition on the Mekong through northern Thailand, Laos, and Burma, with the Three Country Discovery package. Nightly rates for the Mahout Discovery package begin at $480 for a Deluxe Room, double occupancy, and at $682 for a Deluxe Room, double occupancy, for the Three Country Discovery package. Certain restrictions and conditions apply. Please refer to the package links for details.
For the couple who wants it all: beach, adventure, culture
Changlang Beach, Trang, Thailand
Anantara Si Kao Resort & Spa in Thailand will satisfy the couple looking for an unforgettably full cultural experience. Try pretty much every water sport imaginable, from sailing, snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, waterskiing, to even swimming with sea cows! Need something to hang beside the marriage certificate? Get scuba-certified on site with the resorts 5-star PADI scuba diving center. And you both can learn how to prepare a full Thai meal with staff-led cooking classes. More creative couples can partake in the art of Kae-Sa-Luk, Thai fruit and vegetable carving. Book your stay online 40 days in advance between now and December 20, and receive 20% off and daily breakfast buffet for two with the Early Bird Bonus special package. Nightly rates begin at $270 for a Deluxe Garden Terrace room.
March 8th, 2010
Is it just me or is everyone getting engaged? Perhaps you love birds took advantage of Valentine’s Day falling on a long weekend this year. Congratulations if you are one of the lucky few we have spotted around town recently betrothed. Now let the planning begin! To help, here are few suggestions of locales to have the perfect destination wedding.
CARIBBEAN
Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos
Getting married at a private island resort in the Caribbean is a fantastic kick-off to a new life. Parrot Cay offers two beachfront setting for wedding ceremonies – a boardwalk aisle that leads to an unspoiled beach, or the beachfront of a private villa available for rent. Parrot Cay also insists that stress need not be a part of the preparations; all weddings include the dedication of a planner to assist with all preparations, including reserving the dates, food and beverage details, music and entertainment, photography, and any other service requested. Parrot Cay can accommodate small, intimate weddings, or can be bought out for larger weddings (up to 120 guests).
Rosewood Mayakobá, Mexico
Weddings at Rosewood Mayakobá are all about choices – choose stunning outdoor venues like the white sand beach or the Plaza with views of the resort, lagoon, and tropical jungle. Three different restaurants are available to cater. Retreat to the privacy of a private plunge pool after the ceremony, or come down a day early with the wedding party and receive treatments at the resort’s spa, Sense, which is its own private island.
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February 1st, 2010
Obscure cravings, recurring mood swings, and an ever-expanding waistline? When you’re expecting, the side effects can be less than glamorous. Thank goodness for these soothing babymoon packages, guaranteed to result in that oft-talked about motherly “glow.” So ladies, prop up those swollen ankles, sip on a decaffeinated beverage, and settle in for a few days (or even just an hour!) of much-deserved pampering. Oh baby!
Parrot Cay
Here’s your chance for a second honeymoon: Parrot Cay’s three-night Babymoon Package designed for couples to have some time together before the new arrival. Sink into an indulgent 75-minute prenatal massage, an hour-long private yoga session, and a COMO Shambhala Massage. Seeking some outdoor adventure? Book a snorkeling expedition, kayaking, diving, and fishing. Or snuggle up for some alone time with a castaway picnic or private tiki hut dining.
Prices start at $3,070 per couple. Package includes accommodation in a Garden View Room, breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, return airport transfers on scheduled commercial flights, group yoga and Pilates classes, and non-motorized water sports.
Metropolitan London
Mum’s the word! Stop in chic London Town and book the Metropolitan London’s A Met Mum-to-Be offering. Upon arrival to your room, mother-to-be will find a lightweight COMO Shambhala tote bag (perfect for hauling around all those diapers!) and a Purify Hydrating Mist for refreshment on the big day.
Test out the Urban Escape spa for a COMO Shambhala pre-natal massage incorporating a specially-designed ‘Body Cushion’ for support and relaxation during your treatment. Packages from £319 per night for a Deluxe City Room include mineral water in the room at turndown and a healthy breakfast for two.
Rosewood Mayakobá
Story-telling, diaper-changing, and bathtub-splashing are the most excitement you’ll be seeing in your weekends for awhile. So take advantage of the freedom you have left with a few nights away at Rosewood Mayakobá!
Book the four-night Babymoon Package for two and receive daily buffet breakfast, a prenatal yoga instruction session with consultation for two, choice of a snorkeling excursion or a visit to the photo studio at the resort, and a romantic candlelit beach dinner.
Rates start at $1,183 per night including tax and service for a minimum five-night stay through December 15, 2010.
Nantucket Island Resorts
Frankly, strollers on cobblestones sounds like a painful endeavor. Steal away to the quaint historical streets of Nantucket while your load is still light! Reserve a Nantucket Babymoon Package for two nights at either The Wauwinet or White Elephant and a one-hour soothing prenatal massage at one of these properties.
And hey, mom’s not the only one in need of some pampering! Mr. Mom can use a “Daddy Coupon” of $25 towards any treatment at either spa.
Other package inclusions are the White Elephant’s signature “Trunket” stuffed elephant, celebration cigars for the big day, and complimentary gourmet Continental breakfast at The Wauwinet.
The Peninsula Spa by ESPA
A working mom-to-be and can only get away for an hour or two? Reserve a Maternity Massage at The Peninsula Spa by ESPA, New York. This gentle massage uses nourishing ESPA oils and is designed for mothers-to-be after the first trimester, relieving tension in stress-prone areas such as the lower back and hips.
Indulge in 60 minutes for $195 or 90 Minutes for $295. The Peninsula Spa by ESPA in both New York and Chicago also offer a special Pre- and Post-Natal Treatment. Using signature calendula-infused oil, Pink Clay Mud, and various nourishing creams, mommy or mommy-to-be will enjoy improved skin tonicity and complete relaxation. Cost is $320 for 90 Minutes of utter bliss.
ESPA at Acqualina Resort & Spa
While your growing belly might not be ready for an itsy bitsy bikini beachside, you can still snag some Floridian sunshine in a cover up and chic celebrity-esque shades. Book a room at the Acqualina Resort & Spa through December 23 and take advantage of the resort’s Babymoon Package and ESPA spa. Offering includes an 80-minute Maternity Massage and an 80-minute Deep Tissue Massage to work out any pregnancy-induced knots.
Need some extra TLC during your stay? Reserve an additional 90-minute prenatal treatment at the on-site ESPA spa. The nourishing treatment incorporates natural calendula-infused oils, muds, creams, and advanced massage techniques to relax and nurture.
From now through April 4, the Babymoon Package starts at $675 for an Intracoastal Hotel Room and includes daily continental breakfast for two with a minimum stay of three nights.