January 27th, 2012
Newly engaged Chrissy Teigen and John Legend; Anantara Kihavah Villas. Photos courtesy of gatagat.com; Anantara Resorts & Spas.
Of course you know that John Legend proposed to Chrissy Teigen in the Maldives, but do you know at what resort? It is no secret that the island nations of the Maldives, taking the #27 spot on The New York Times’ “45 Places to Go in 2012” list, is a hotbed for celebrities. But with over 80 different resorts throughout the necklace of islands, where are they all hiding?
Well, we’ve spotted supermodel Chrissy Teigen with R&B musician John Legend, soccer stud Cristiano Ronaldo, tennis champion Roger Federer, and British bombshell Jenny Frost all at the luxurious Anantara Kihavah Villas. Whether they spent their time relaxing on the white-sand beaches, picking up a few tips from a cooking class at Salt, sipping on some bubbly at the underwater restaurant, Sea, or popping the question à la John Legend, it is clear that this resort is hot on the celebrity circuit! Whether you are a star or starlet, or just like to pretend that you are, all guests of Anantara Kihavah Villas receive five-star treatment.
January 25th, 2012
Crazy Horse Cabaret, the avant-garde icon of provocative Parisian nightlife, continues the celebration of its 60th anniversary with Le Pavillon des Lettres, extending an invitation to see the show and get a room. In a perfect marriage of the arts (literature and burlesque go hand in hand, non?), the literary hotel and the legendary theater are offering a package that includes amour-inducing accommodations, VIP tickets to Crazy Horse’s 60th anniversary celebration show, Désir, and some take-home memorabilia.
In order to get the most bang for your burlesque buck, we suggest some pre-Paris homework… In a documentary showing at the Film Forum in New York City now through Tuesday, February 7, and currently available anytime, anywhere on Netflix, acclaimed documentary filmmaker Frederick Wiseman has captured the mystique of the most famous nude dance show in the world with “Crazy Horse: Désir.” Wiseman’s new film takes a behind-the-scenes look at the painstaking creation, grueling rehearsals, and ultimate unveiling of the 60th anniversary show.
Radiating the timeless elegance of Paris, Le Pavillon des Lettres features 26 intimate rooms, each dedicated to a letter of the alphabet that pays homage to corresponding French and international literary geniuses. A stay in a room named for, and decorated with the works of such writers of passion and romance as F for Flaubert (Madame Bovary), S for Shakespeare (Romeo & Juliet), or T for Tolstoy (Anna Karenina) is sure to enhance the experience.
This offer includes :
- Deluxe Room accommodations
- Daily breakfast
- Two VIP tickets to Crazy Horse
- Crazy Horse photo book
- Rates start at 440 euros per night ($570 USD)
- Valid for travel now through December 31, 2012
- Minimum two-night stay; based on double occupancy
For additional information visit:
www.pavillondeslettres.com or call +33 (0)1 49 24 26 26
January 20th, 2012
While there is something magical about that first snow of the season, let’s face it, the rest of winter is spent dreaming about sand between your toes and a warm sea breeze. And now, thanks to the National Geographic Top 10 Beaches, we’re dreaming in overdrive. While any beach sounds amazing, we’ve got a couple that we can’t stop thinking about. In fact, we’ve already dreamed up our spring, summer, and next winters’ vacations there.
First on our list, and number two on NatGeo’s list, is the Maldives. With over 1,102 islands, forming 26 atolls, there is plenty of beach to go around. We’re dreaming of a nice long stay in an over-water bungalow at Cocoa Island. Not only does the crystal clear water make for some of the world’s greatest scuba diving and snorkeling, there’s also surfing, fishing, and other incredible water sports to keep you busy. Then again, we’d be happy just to sunbathe on the pristine beach all day.
After spring break in the Maldives, we’re heading to number six, Nantucket, for our summer vacation. This magical little island 27 miles off the coast of Massachusetts is the ultimate place to visit, whether for a weekend or the entire summer. While the island itself is less than 50 square miles, there are over 80 miles of beaches, but our desired beach is located at our favorite inn by the sea, The Wauwinet. There are actually two beaches to choose from – one at the head of the Nantucket Harbor, for shallow water and no waves, and the other on the Atlantic Ocean, with deep, soft sand and gentle waves. Don’t forget to collect some shells, you’ll find some beautiful ones to take home with you.
Next December, we want our early Christmas present to ourselves to be a luxurious cruise aboard Crystal Symphony. The “South Pacific Sojourn” will stop at several incredible ports, but the one we’re most excited about is Bora Bora, number three on NatGeo’s list. Dubbed the “Romantic Island”, this lush little slip of land is protected by a lagoon and has 18 miles of white sandy shore. The beautiful lagoon provides a wide array of activities, from windsurfing to scuba diving, and the two towering peaks of sheer black rock make an impressive backdrop to the dazzling blue waters. While some consider it the most beautiful island in the world, we can’t wait to find out for ourselves!
January 17th, 2012
Photo courtesy of huffingtonpost.com
Sailors in the Volvo Ocean Race have had quite the adventurous couple of months. After departing from their starting port in Alicante, Spain in October, they braved the treacherous Atlantic to Cape Town, Africa, narrowly avoiding potential pirate attacks in the Straight of Hormuz. From Cape Town, they set sail to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates where they arrived last Thursday to the welcoming music of Coldplay.
After several in-port races in Abu Dhabi, the boats embarked on the next leg of their journey to Sanya, China, where they can expect some surprises in the water. While sailing the Malacca Straights, the second busiest shipping channel in the world, they need to be on the lookout for logs and other debris in the water that have the potential to cause disaster.
After Sanya, they will set sail for Auckland, Australia; Itajai, Brazil; Miami, USA; Lisbon, Portugal; Lorient, France, and finally, Galway, Ireland. After approximately nine months of racing and 39,270 nautical miles, there will only be one champion in Galway. We can’t wait to find out who!
For the most up-to-date information and updates on the race, visit www.volvooceanrace.com.
January 16th, 2012
Last night’s Golden Globes kicked off the 2012 Awards season, and Hollywood prep teams are hard at work ensuring our favorite starlets are putting the best foot, and face, forward on the Red Carpet. On a smaller scale, we all have our own versions of a Red Carpet moment, and without a prep team, we need to rely on the products in our cabinets to help us achieve that picture-perfect look. From anti-wrinkle creams to redness reducers, these products will leave your skin flawless, and of course, Red Carpet ready!
The problem: Red, blotchy skin
The cure: Guinot Crème Red Logic, 1.3oz $40
Avoid caking on too much makeup to mask unwanted red spots; opt instead for one layer of this dream cream. Ingredients like arnica extracts and esculosides work instantly to reduce the appearance of redness and tone capillary veins, leaving your complexion refreshed and spot free.
The problem: Fine lines
The cure: Guinot Mini-Lift Éclat Beauté, .06oz $22
This day of skin saver relies on a complex of natural sugars and witch hazel to smooth away fine lines and even out the complexion. Soy protein forms a protective barrier over the skin’s surface to shield the epidermis from external irritants and prolong makeup application, so your face is flawless throughout your big night.
The problem: Dull complexion
The cure: ESPA Skin Radiance Mask, 25ml $68
Revive skin’s natural radiance with this instantly illuminating face-saving mask. Mulberry, bearberry, and liquorice work together to help visibly brighten and even out skin tone, while pumpkin enzymes dissolve dull cells clean away, breathing instant luminous light into skin.
The problem: Shiny skin
The cure: Guinot Matizone Moisturizer, 1.7oz $60
Eliminate shine while you prime with this mattifying moisturizer. Matti-sponges act to trap and neutralize shine by absorbing the oil on your face, and, unlike makeup powders, water is left behind ensuring the skin is not dried out. Hydrocyte complex works to lock in moisture by forming a protective barrier over the upper layers of the epidermis, which also makes it an ideal primer.
The problem: Messy makeup
The cure: Guinot Youth Time Treatment Foundation, 30ml $55
Covering up the problem is only half the battle. Now you can win the war on aging with Guinot’s new foundation. While may feel light, this long-lasting cover-up definitely pulls its weight! The Youth Time Treatment does double duty by masking the signs of aging and also decreasing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time. Green tea extracts and vitamin E work together to protect and sooth the skin, while hyaluronic acid spherical fillers penetrate the epidermis to plump out wrinkles and smooth facial features.
The problem: Dry cracked lips, smudged lipstick, and fine lines
The cure: Guinot Longue Vie Lèvres, .51oz $34
Nourish and plump up lips with this cellular regenerating treatment. Guinot’s replenishing spheres, which contain 56 cellular active ingredients, provide an anti-wrinkle effect by filling out fine lines around the lips, and camomile extract and vitamin E work together to ward off free radicals and moisturize the lip surface.
The problem: Tired eyes, crow’s feet, and puffiness
The cure: ESPA Lift and Firm Eye Moisturizer, 15ml $79
You don’t need to go under the knife to reduce the appearance of fine lines around the eye area. This potent line smoother provides an instant lifting effect beta glucan and chitin boost elasticity, while tightening argania spinosa extract and firming algae help recontour the delicate eye area. Golden root brightens dark circles, while summer snowflakebulb actively smoothes lines for a more youthful appearance.
The problem: Puffy eyes and dark circles
The cure: Guinot Anti-fatigue Yeux, .5oz $42
Alleviate the appearance of tired eyes with this revitalizing gel that gives the one-two punch to dark circles and puffiness. Plant extracts, horse chestnut, and ivy decongest and strengthen the capillary walls, while allantoin softens the epidermis and encourages cellular regeneration. Keep this gel in the refrigerator for a cooling effect that soothes heavy eyelids.
Find ESPA products at us.espaonline.com.
Find a store that carries Guinot at guinotusa.com.
January 13th, 2012
Photo courtesy of thecrazypoint.com
In the Chinese calendar, January 23rd marks the end of the Year of the Rabbit, and the beginning of the Year of the Dragon. It’s the start of the 15 days of celebration for Southeast Asia’s most fêted holiday – the Chinese New Year. It’s a time to welcome longevity, wealth and prosperity and to eliminate any negative “chi” from the past year. It also predicts what the next year will have in store for us. For this year, the return of the Dragon characterizes 2012 to be a year of excitement, unpredictability, exhilaration, and intensity. It is said that people respond to the spirit of the Dragon with “energy, vitality, and unbridled enthusiasm, often throwing all caution to the wind,” according to Chinese legend, so this should be a very interesting year!
The New Year is traditionally rung in with a fabulous feast – and you can join in at several Anantara properties! Anantara Bangkok Riverside, Anantara Bangkok Sathorn, Anantara Phuket Villas, and Anantara Si Kao are all celebrating in their own distinctive way:
Anantara Bangkok Riverside – Welcome in the Chinese New Year of the Dragon with a vibrant cultural occasion overlooking the majestic River of Kings at the Riverside Terrace! Feast on an endless buffet of the finest cuisine from all over the world, enhanced by a thematic dim sum counter and other mouthwatering Chinese delicacies. Watch a calligraphy expert write beautiful Chinese greetings and enjoy an impressive lion dance show. Then open traditional Chinese red envelopes filled with indulgent Anantara surprises, such as a complimentary meal or discount vouchers to be used for amazing experiences.
Anantara Bangkok Sathorn – Invite friends and family to the stylish 100˚East restaurant to ring in the Chinese New Year! Share a delicious Chinese and International buffet prepared by a team of highly trained chefs both from Thailand and abroad. Featuring items from the most delectable Asian fare to freshly stone-baked pizza, there is sure to be something for everyone on the menu.
Anantara Phuket Villas – Savour a grand BBQ buffet of Chinese, Thai, and international cuisine, as Chinese lanterns sway overhead in the soft sea breeze on the Beach Lawn. Open traditional red envelopes to find wonderful gifts of discovery. Watch a colorful lion dance performance, a spectacular fire show, and auspicious Chinese crackers welcome in the Year of the Dragon.
Anantara Si Kao – Ring in the Chinese New Year at Leelawadee, Anantara Si Kao’s signature outdoor restaurant. Experience laid back Andaman luxury and Anantara Si Kao’s international buffet on the terrace, decorated with fantasy lighting and red envolopes hanging from mandarin trees. Then retire to your room or suite to find a mandarin orange and red envelope containing an indulgent surprise.
January 6th, 2012
It’s the beginning of a new year, and a new you! If you’re resolving to be healthier this year, why not kick start your new fitness regimen on board an ultra-luxe cruise ship? Crystal Cruises is now offering complimentary Pilates and yoga programs on board both Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity on nine sailings each throughout the year. Travelers can attend several classes per day during their cruise, or arrange private one-on-one sessions of either interest (for a fee), as well as men- and couples-only yoga instruction.
Every Crystal Cruise offers a host of complimentary classes such as stretch, spinning, abs, circuit training/boot camp, and more. Crystal’s state-of-the-art fitness center, the only Feng Shui spa and gym at sea, features Kinesis strength training equipment, LifeFitness® treadmills with individual flat-screen TVs, cross trainers, recumbent and upright life cycles and steppers, free weights, and other strength-training equipment. Golf instruction, tennis, Nordic Pole walking, WALKVEST® Training, personal trainers, and a bevy of dietary choices offer the perfect opportunity to kick-start, or comply with, your healthy lifestyle.
Here’s to a happy and healthy 2012 aboard Crystal Cruises!
For more information on Crystal Cruises, visit www.crystalcruises.com
January 6th, 2012
While they may be far from any hockey rink, Anantara Resorts has still managed to score a “hat trick” in the Maldives! They have proudly achieved Green Globe Certification for three of its resorts – Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa, Anantara Veli Resort & Spa, and Anantara Kihavah Villas. This recognition highlights Anantara’s sincere commitment to operating in an environmentally, socially and culturally responsible manner through a broad spectrum of initiatives in the Maldives, and is proudly the first operator in the Maldives to have all of its resorts Green Globe Certified.
Anantara’s Maldives resorts incorporate all aspects of Green Globe standards in their daily operation, primarily in environmental conservation such as water, energy, and waste management efficiency. The resorts also support their local communities and environments and promote the islands’ social and cultural heritage through resort and local island experiences.
Baa Atoll, the capital of the Maldives, is also recognized as a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO for its conservation, research, and development of their rich coral reef systems. With this, UNESCO acknowledges Baa Atoll’s “great potential for demonstrating sustainable development throughout the Maldives and the region, while relying on a green economy.”
For more information on Anantara and its environmental, social and cultural sustainability policies, please click here.
January 5th, 2012
Image courtesy of http://www.airlinesanddestinations.com.
Sydney, Australia, already voted one of the Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities at Night by TripAdvisor, becomes even more stunning this spring (or shall we say fall?). From May 25-June 11, Sydney Harbor will once again transform for Vivid Sydney, the largest celebration of light, music, and ideas in the Southern Hemisphere. For these 17 days, the Sydney Opera House sails will be illuminated by more than 50 light-art sculptures and large-scale installations and projections.
Catch the best views of the event at the newly redesigned Park Hyatt Sydney in the Rocks District, reopening in February. With its incredible views of the Sydney Harbor, you can have the best seat in the house in your own room!
The festival will also feature contemporary music performances at Vivid LIVE at the Sydney Opera House; international creative-industry conferences; and the new Vivid Ideas Exchange, a hub for creative ideas, discussion, and debate at the Museum of Contemporary Art. For more information on Vivid Sydney, visit www.vividsydney.com
For more information on Park Hyatt Sydney, click here.
December 16th, 2011
This holiday season, watch a different kind of ball drop at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship, taking place in Abu Dhabi December 29-31. Six of the world’s top ten players will compete for the title in Abu Dhabi. The all-star line-up includes world number 1 Novak Djokovic, world number 2 and 10-time Grand-Slam Champion Rafa Nadal, world number 3 and 16-time Grand-Slam champion Roger Federer, world number 5 David Ferrer, world number 6 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and world number 16 Gael Monfils.
(Photo Courtesy of AsianWaveMag.com)