Wednesday, November 3, 2010

SAINT LUCIA TOURISM UPDATE: WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2010 SAINT LUCIA AIRPORTS FULLY OPERATIONAL, DESTINATION OPENS FOR BUSINESS THIS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2010

As many of you know St. Lucia was hit my a category 1 hurricane, called Tomas.  Below is an update from the tourist board on the condition of the island and travel. 



SAINT LUCIA TOURISM UPDATE: WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2010  SAINT LUCIA AIRPORTS FULLY OPERATIONAL, DESTINATION OPENS FOR BUSINESS THIS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2010   

"No significant damage" reported as key tourism facilities remain operational
SAINT LUCIA (November 3, 2010) - Saint Lucia's airports in the north and south of the island are now fully operational following the passage of Hurricane Tomas, a Category 1 storm, over the weekend.
Senator Allen Chastanet, Saint Lucia's Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister, reported that over the past few days Saint Lucians of walks of life joined hands in "true community spirit" to clear roads, clean debris and help communities return to a state of normalcy.
As of Tuesday, November 2, the island's two airports - Hewanorra International Airport in the south and George F. L. Charles Airport in the north of the island - were open for business; and American Eagle had increased services at George F. L. Charles Airport to move passengers who had previously been delayed between San Juan, Puerto Rico and Saint Lucia."We are pleased to report that major roads have been cleared and the Castries-Vieux Fort and Soufrière-Vieux Fort thoroughfares are now fully motorable," Senator Chastanet said, thanking the state authorities, businesses and private citizens for helping facilitate critical access between the north and the south.

Electricity has been restored to 80 percent of the island while power will flow to 90 percent of the country by this weekend. Most resorts currently have adequate water, and water supply should be restored in short order after detailed inspections revealed damage to the water dam is substantially less than expected. Most businesses resumed operations this week.

Senator Chastanet reported that "incredible improvements are being made every day to clean up debris littered throughout the island while tourism stakeholders intimated no significant damage to their properties and attractions."
Buoyed by the clean-up work of the Saint Lucian populace, the Tourism Minister declared, "We look forward to welcoming visitors by air from Europe, North America and the Caribbean with regularity from this Friday, November 5 - a week earlier than previously forecast."
Senator Chastanet also announced that cruise ships will resume calls to the island from November 7.
"Our prayers are with our brothers and sisters here and in the Eastern Caribbean who have been affected by this storm as well as those elsewhere in the region who are bracing themselves for its arrival over the next few days," said Senator Chastanet.
The tourism minister noted the government was working with local, regional and international partners to help deliver humanitarian assistance to communities that have been affected by Hurricane Tomas.

There will be a further update within 24 hours.

About Saint Lucia One of the Windward Islands of the West Indies' Lesser Antilles, Saint Lucia (pronounced Saint LOO-sha) is nestled halfway down the Eastern Caribbean archipelago. The "Helen of the West Indies," Saint Lucia is known for its natural beauty and diverse attractions, including the signature Piton Mountains - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - a tropical rainforest and one of the world's few drive-in volcanoes. Culturally rich offerings include the bustling marketplace in the capital of Castries, quaint fishing villages along the coastline, and the annual Saint Lucia Jazz festival. Saint Lucia's wide range of accommodations includes world-class five-star resorts, all-inclusive resorts, intimate inns and value-oriented properties.

SAINT LUCIA TOURISM UPDATE: WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2010  SAINT LUCIA AIRPORTS FULLY OPERATIONAL, DESTINATION OPENS FOR BUSINESS THIS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2010   "No significant damage" reported as key tourism facilities remain operationalSAINT LUCIA (November 3, 2010) - Saint Lucia's airports in the north and south of the island are now fully operational following the passage of Hurricane Tomas, a Category 1 storm, over the weekend.Senator Allen Chastanet, Saint Lucia's Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister, reported that over the past few days Saint Lucians of walks of life joined hands in "true community spirit" to clear roads, clean debris and help communities return to a state of normalcy.As of Tuesday, November 2, the island's two airports - Hewanorra International Airport in the south and George F. L. Charles Airport in the north of the island - were open for business; and American Eagle had increased services at George F. L. Charles Airport to move passengers who had previously been delayed between San Juan, Puerto Rico and Saint Lucia.
"We are pleased to report that major roads have been cleared and the Castries-Vieux Fort and Soufrière-Vieux Fort thoroughfares are now fully motorable," Senator Chastanet said, thanking the state authorities, businesses and private citizens for helping facilitate critical access between the north and the south.

Electricity has been restored to 80 percent of the island while power will flow to 90 percent of the country by this weekend. Most resorts currently have adequate water, and water supply should be restored in short order after detailed inspections revealed damage to the water dam is substantially less than expected. Most businesses resumed operations this week. Senator Chastanet reported that "incredible improvements are being made every day to clean up debris littered throughout the island while tourism stakeholders intimated no significant damage to their properties and attractions."Buoyed by the clean-up work of the Saint Lucian populace, the Tourism Minister declared, "We look forward to welcoming visitors by air from Europe, North America and the Caribbean with regularity from this Friday, November 5 - a week earlier than previously forecast."Senator Chastanet also announced that cruise ships will resume calls to the island from November 7. "Our prayers are with our brothers and sisters here and in the Eastern Caribbean who have been affected by this storm as well as those elsewhere in the region who are bracing themselves for its arrival over the next few days," said Senator Chastanet.The tourism minister noted the government was working with local, regional and international partners to help deliver humanitarian assistance to communities that have been affected by Hurricane Tomas.

There will be a further update within 24 hours.
About Saint Lucia One of the Windward Islands of the West Indies' Lesser Antilles, Saint Lucia (pronounced Saint LOO-sha) is nestled halfway down the Eastern Caribbean archipelago. The "Helen of the West Indies," Saint Lucia is known for its natural beauty and diverse attractions, including the signature Piton Mountains - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - a tropical rainforest and one of the world's few drive-in volcanoes. Culturally rich offerings include the bustling marketplace in the capital of Castries, quaint fishing villages along the coastline, and the annual Saint Lucia Jazz festival. Saint Lucia's wide range of accommodations includes world-class five-star resorts, all-inclusive resorts, intimate inns and value-oriented properties.

First All Inclusive Hard Rock Hotel Opens in Punta Cana

So what do you get when you combine the world most renown "rock and roll" hotel and restaurant brand with one of the best all inclusive brands in the Dominican Republic? The First Ultimate All-Inclusive Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Punta Cana, of course.  


Palace Resorts and the Hard Rock International have joined forces and completely transformed the largest resort in the Dominican Republic. (also the largest casino)  121 acres at Macao Beach in Punta Cana, the resort  has 1,800 guest rooms.  


This family friendly resort has something for everyone!  Golfers will be thrilled to hit the links at the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course that boasts 18 holes spanning across 155 acres. If you are looking for more of a Vegas style getaway you can seek solace in the more than 48,000 square foot Las Vegas-style casino that has a high-limit poker room, 457 slot machines, a VIP lounge and 40 tables featuring games such as blackjack, roulette and craps. Even the gym is spectacular the Body Rock fitness center and the rock-climbing wall are endless cover 15,000 square feet . The resort even offers something for you tennis pros with 2 amazing courts.  When staying here don't forget to stop by for a game of pool at the billiards,play ping-pong and other table games. After a hard day of play, wind down with a massage or facial at Rock Spa.


Take advantage of what the Hard Rock Hotels are most known... their pools.  With 11 pools this resort is sure not to disappoint.  Come on over and garb a stool at one of the four that has a swim-up bar so you can relax poolside with a signature frozen drink. The resort also has a lazy river, a mini-golf course, water slides, a Kids Club and an ice-cream stand.  The possibilities are endless...

Whether you are a hard rocker or channeling your inner rock goddess this is the resort for you.  Plan your bachelor or bachelorette getaway, looking to get away with friends, or just escape with the family the hard rock lifestyle is perfect for a memorable vacation.  You can even get married in one of the three floating wedding pavilions.

 
This fall, in celebration of the opening, visitors to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana receive a $350Dec. 15Dec. 23, 2010. Guests can also take advantage of a $1,500 Resort Credit for use toward room upgrades, spa and beauty salon treatments, golf outings, romantic dinners, Precious Wedding Collection packages and off-site excursions, all when booking a five-night stay or longer. airfare credit per person, based on the adult rate with a maximum of two people, for travel through and a 20 percent discount off the average daily rate for travel through

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Dreaming of Dominicia and Beau Rive

Recently on a flight from Antigua to St. Lucia on my favorite Caribbean airline Liat we flew over the most majestic island I have ever seen in flight.  There was a bit of morning fog but the most amazing lush island appeared out of no where.  I turned to my husband who was reading a copy of the St.Lucia Star and before I could utter a word he was in full awe.  It was truly a vision in green with lush forests, winding rivers, beautiful cliffs, and crashing waves.  Mountains that your eyes followed every curve and valleys that seemed to sink into the core of every existence of my mind. Sure I have recommended the island a hand full of times but never had such a desire to go and stay myself.  An undiscovered paradise and perhaps my next ecoadventure!


Dominica (not the Dominican Republic) is part of the Windward chain and lies between the French islands of Guadeloupe to the north, and Martinique to the south. From hiking the lush mountain peaks of almost 5,000 ft. to diving the dramatic vertical walls of our underwater terrain, it's no wonder Dominica took my breath away at every turn.

When I speak to my clients about the island and where to stay only one resort comes to mind  with simple sophistication and enough charm to feel like home.  The hotel is a gem, fully in harmony with the beauty of its lush surroundings.  

Welcome to Beau Rive!  


Beau Rive is situated 240 feet above sea level on the East (Atlantic) coast between the villages of Castle Bruce and Sineku. The hotel is nestled into a hillside amid three acres of tropical gardens and forest, with a dramatic view of the ever-crashing waves at Anse Francais and Wakaman Point. The setting is secluded and private and one can walk down through the forest and along the Richmond River to the wild and rocky beach. Here, the sea is too rough for bathing but there is a black sand beach at Castle Bruce one and a half miles to the south where it's possible to swim.

This secluded gem is just what I am looking for to escape life for a while, become one with nature, meditate, and simply be with the one I love.  Beau Rive boasts a humble 10 double suites all oceanview.  You will not find the standard room service, cable tv, and mini bar. This may upset some.  However, Beau Rive concentrates on quality of design, and a style of service rarely found today.  On resort you will find Roof terrace bar and dining room, Swimming pool Lounge / library, Citrus and spice gardens, and Forest trail to Richmond river.

Beau Rive is the perfect home base from which to explore the villages, markets, gardens, coastlines, beaches, trails, rivers, waterfalls, mountains and rainforests of Dominica.  


Dominica, like Beau Rive, is understated elegance and magnificently majestic.



For more information Beau Rive and other resorts in Dominica:

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Privilege Resort and Spa

Air, 5 Nts, All - Inclusive, Luxury, Award Winning Resort, Jacuzzi on Balcony $599

Spend five nights relaxing at one of Mexico's best kept secrets, the island of Isla Mujeres, for $599 per person. This all-inclusive getaway saves travelers $400 on the cost of booking air and hotel separately.
The Privilege Aluxes Resort, a 15-minute boat ride off the coast of Cancun, is a modern resort opened in 2009. Each room offers guests the added luxury of a private Jacuzzi located on the balcony.
This vacation includes roundtrip airfare, hotel, meals, drinks and activities. Packages are available for the first 200 bookings only for travel Nov. 1 - Dec. 16. 

 
Upgrade to a premium suite with ocean view and separate living room/bedroom for $99 more per person.
Fly from:
Click here for a quote on this and other Caribbean destinations.
Book by Oct. 22.
Note:  Travel over holiday weekends is available at slightly higher rates.  Roundtrip transfers from Cancun airport to Isla Mujeres are available for $45 per person, ask for details.

Terms :
  • Price per person based on double or triple. Rates do not include hotel charges typically paid by the customer directly to the hotel (e.g., room service, telephone charges, etc.), government imposed international travel taxes of up to $110.90, airport passenger facility charges of up to $18, the September 11th Security Fee of up to $10 per person and federal excise taxes of $3.30 which will be imposed on each domestic segment. A flight segment is defined as a takeoff and a landing. Other conditions apply. Total Vacation Package price will always be clearly displayed to you prior to purchase. Limited time offer is subject to (i) change without notice; (ii) availability (advance reservation is required As Always SkylineDestinations.com Brings you the best Deals Price is only valid until it sells out! Some cities may have an extra surcharge. 
 

ClubMed in Sandpiper Bay is perfect for Family Reunions, Destination Weddings, and Corporate Events!

Good afternoon all.  Recently I have gotten a few request for Corporate Events.  A few have been requesting destinations in the US however love the allinclusive concept.  Well look no further my friends.  Be the first to experience ClubMed in Sandpiper Bay, Florida, after 25 million dollars in renovation will reopen on December 17, 2010.  


Book one of their renovated club rooms at $150pp a night.  Need a little more time book today and you can enjoy 7 all-inclusive nights for the price of 3 nights only!

This property would also be a great choice for a destination wedding or the Bachelor / Bachelorette party before! 

For more information ClubMed Properties and other Caribbean Destinations:
 

Monday, October 11, 2010

Beaches Resort at Turks and Caicos: Best Caribbean Resort for Parents, Grandparents, & the Children!

The fans are swaying to the music, clapping and crowding the stage so they can reach out and touch their favorite stars.... who happen to be giant furry characters named Elmo, Cookie Monster, Bert and Ernie.


Welcome to Beaches Resort at Turks and Caicos the family themed resort from our favorite Caribbean brand Sandals ResortsBeaches Resorts offer the very best in a luxury included vacation for the whole family.  With childcare for infants and toddlers, beach camp for for children with crayola arts and crafts, to beach since and even camp-outs.  We must not forget the tweens with the ultra cool Scratch DJ Academy.  Teens will never want to leave after gaming in the xbox 360 game garage and even Liquid Nightclub just for them! Escape to the islands and get ready to discover the true meaning of paradise. Feast on a candlelight dinner in one of several romantic, fine-dining restaurants. Pamper yourself with a soul- and body-renewing treatment at our heavenly Red Lane Spa. Surrender to the sunshine in your chaise lounge drawn right up to the Caribbean Sea. Splash, swim and sip the day away with new friends at a sparkling swim-up pool bar. Have the time of your life at a Beaches resort—your very own adult playground in the heart of the gorgeous tropics.  Fun is sure to be had at the wave rider and the water parks?



There are four all-inclusive Beaches Resorts are operating at 80 percent or more capacity, despite an economy that continues to wreak havoc on the travel industry. There are as many as 10 weddings a day, including many that involve blended families.This year beaches launched a Martha Stewart-themed wedding packages.  A couple of years ago Beaches completed a $125 million expansion that includes Italian Village with some of the best-planned family rooms I've ever seen. (Think separate space for kids with bunk beds, video games, sink to brush their teeth and a door that you can close!)


Vacation packages taking as much as 65 percent off the rack rate certainly help too, as does the drop-dead location -- the resort is spread over 60 acres spank in the middle of a marine sanctuary with a white-sand beach that stretches for miles.



 











Did I mention the 16 restaurants, huge fitness center, seven pools - five with swim-up bars (virgin pina colada anyone?) and complimentary diving daily? And though this is a huge resort (633 rooms) it doesn't seem that big because there are three clusters or "villages" each with its own check-in, lobby, shops, pools and more.


Something that peaked my interest was the Beaches Friends Forever Girls Getaway!  This is a wonderful opportunity to get together with your Girlfriends for a bachelorette party or maybe your friends and family. 



For more information on Beaches and Sandals Resorts:

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Sandy Lane: The Caribbean's Most Exclusive Address

 
From the very first moment of your arrival, it is clear Sandy Lane is no ordinary hotel.  From the start and constantly evolving it captures every aspect of true exclusive luxury.  Welcome to the island of Barbados... Welcome to Sandy Lane Hotel.

On your way to the resort amidst the long winding driveway, you step into a luxurious dream of tranquility, and leave the world far behind. 
 


This is a glorious exotic resort for those who seek the absolute finest vacation with litmitless leisure options.

Sandy Lane offers 112 rooms and suites which are extremely spacious with marble floors, plasma TV's, large verandahs, and state of the art equipment.



There is one five bedroom villa exclusively for only the wealthiest of patrons
24 hour room service is accepted as normal, and you can dine on the finest cuisine in Sandy Lane's four five star restaurants.





Sandy Lane is home to the well known Green Monkey Golf Course.
And this isn't Sandy Lane's only premier golf course, there are two more! Even the most experienced golfers will find a challenge here.

At first glance, it's difficult to locate the award winning Sandy Lane Spa because it is hidden behind a cascading waterfall. 
Expect nothing but the best in spa treatments with "deep" massage treatments as a specialty along with other unique techniques from around the world.
 

Barbados is home to many world class hotels, but Sandy Lane is in a class all by itself, and it has the history to prove it.


Monday, September 20, 2010

The sun. The sea. The Dreams: Dreams Palm Beach Sale

The sun. The sea. The Dreams: Dreams Palm Beach Sale

The sun. The sea. The Dreams

Time spent at Dreams Palm Beach on the sun drenched east coast of the Dominican Republic is an idyllic haven for singles, couples and families. It’s a friendly, utterly relaxing world comprised of gorgeous beaches, a majestic turquoise sea and most importantly, the special feeling of being welcomed as an honored guest with all the privileges of Unlimited-Luxury® — where everything is included.
As gentle breezes blow through the palms, time and worldly concerns seem to evaporate. Take a nap by our lovely pools. Wander among our tropical gardens. This is the vacation your body has been seeking for so long. From the moment we greet your arrival, you will be delighted by all you see... and all you can do. 

  • Our amenity-filled luxury rooms and suites offer stunning ocean views, shimmering pools or manicured gardens.
  • A spectacular array of day and evening activities for every age and interest.
  • Three beautiful sun basked pools including a children’s pool.
  • Eight international restaurants serving gourmet fare, a beachside snack bar, coffee, tea and pastry café and five very friendly bars and lounges serving unlimited premium brand beverages.
  • 24-hour room and concierge services.
  • Supervised Explorer's Club for kids, and Core Zone for teens so everyone enjoys their own time in their own way.
  • Nearby excursion sites for golf, shopping, tours and adventure
  • A friendly, fastidious staff who will make you feel like the honored guest you are.

The beauty of our Unlimited-Luxury® service is that virtually everything is already included. You won’t have to think about anything except fully enjoying yourself. Our extremely high standards have earned us premier recognition from the prestigious Preferred Hotels and Resorts Worldwide.
Dreams Palm Beach— where everything is included, exquisite and perfect.

**Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana $200 resort credit per room** per stay, 2 kids 12 & under stay, play & eats for FREE!
 From Atlanta: From $899.00pp DL Nonstop
From Charlotte: From $799.00pp DL Airlines

Friday, September 17, 2010

Bermuda Offers Island-Wide Free Night Promotion

Bermuda’s Department of Tourism is launching an island-wide “Compliments of Bermuda” promotion offering complimentary accommodations on every third night for stays of at least three nights at participating Bermuda hotels and resorts. The program is timed to coincide with Bermuda’s “golf and spa” season, and features 15 participating hotel properties.


The offer applies to bookings made between Sept. 15, 2010, and March 12, 2011, for travel from Nov. 15, 2010, to March 15, 2011. The participating hotels are the Cambridge Beaches Resort and Spa; Clearview Suites; Elbow Beach, Bermuda; Fairmont Hamilton Princess; Fairmont Southampton; Fourways Inn; Granaway Guest House and Cottage; Greenbank; Grotto Bay Beach & Tennis Club; Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort and Spa; Royal Palms Hotel; Rosedon; Surf Side Beach Club Hotel; St. George’s Club and Tucker’s Point Hotel and Spa. Rates range from approximately $125 to $460 per night. For more information, visit http://www.skylinedestinations.com/

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Luxe Vacations Increase Happiness!

As I was browsing though articles this morning I found this and thought I would share. I know luxe vacations increase my happiness! 

How to Spend Money So It Makes You Happy


The debate over whether money can buy happiness just got more complicated. A new paper from two economists suggests that spending money on certain things – namely, leisure activities – does, in fact, improve happiness levels. Spending on more materialistic items, such as cars, food, and clothes, does not.

First, some background: Economists have long debated how money influences happiness levels. On one hand, people in richer countries report higher happiness levels. But after a certain threshold of wealth is reached the link begins to weaken. That could be because people get used to higher incomes, so wealth doesn’t bring them as much pleasure, or because once people achieve a certain level of material success, they begin to wish they had even more. People also tend to compare themselves to others, and it’s always possible to find someone else who’s richer than you.

But no one doubts the importance of being happy. For starters, it feels good, but it also appears to improve health and even longevity.

Now, back to these intriguing new findings. By comparing consumption data from the national Health and Retirement Study, Thomas DeLeire of the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Ariel Kalil of the University of Chicago found that spending money on leisure activities, which include vacations, movie theater tickets, and hobbies, improve happiness levels. (Happiness was measured by asking respondents to describe how they felt about their lives.)
Expenditures on durable goods such as refrigerators, clothes, personal items, cars, and housing, on the other hand, did not have an effect on happiness.

The apparent reason behind the leisure spending – happiness connection is even more intriguing than the finding itself: Spending on leisure activities appears to boost one’s level of social connectedness. That makes sense, since when you go on vacation, engage in a hobby such as tennis or bridge, or go out to the movies, you are almost always doing it with somebody else. So spending on leisure might boost your social connectedness, which in turn improves your happiness level.

What does this all mean for the savvy consumer? Well, it suggests that we should be sure to budget some of our funds towards leisure. While the latest handbag or car might give us a short burst of euphoria, we might soon get used to having them around so the happiness provided is short-lived. But if we spend money on a once-in-a lifetime vacation with our families instead, then we might feel happier and more connected to our loved ones.

One caveat: The study is based on data from older Americans over the age of 50, so it might not apply to everyone. It’s possible, for example, that younger Americans get more of a happiness surge from keeping up with the latest clothing trends, and older folks get more pleasure from leisure. As the authors put it, “For a relatively older adult, an expensive vacation or box seats at the symphony may be happily viewed as the just reward of a long and productive life, something that was postponed until a stage of relative financial security and seniority in one’s position at work or in the community.”

Still, the findings hold a useful lesson for the rest of us, too.

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Bless Our Soldiers!


The other day I received a request from a soldier stationed in the middle east.  He explained that he would be in the field for over a year and had a beautiful fiance at home who he loved so very much and could not wait to make her his wife. (he went on and on about how much she meant) He also explained as a surprise he would like to plan a romantic Caribbean honeymoon as a surprise.  He also mentioned that he could not give me exact dates that he would be coming back to the US but would like information on what was out there.  He also mentioned that money was tight for the time being as well.  Also letting me know that if he did not reply for a few days or so that the reason was probably because he was in the field. This brought tears to my eyes the love he has for America (you and I, strangers...) and the love and strong bond he and his fiance must share.  My Sandals Resorts Rep Joy sent me an email this morning with a program Sandals Resorts now has for our troops.  They have always offered military and active a discount on their Sandals Resorts vacation package.  Now they are offering to send personalized cards from us to our friends and family stationed abroad.  I am sending one to my Father's neighbors son who is stationed in Iraq.  This is amazing and one more reason I am in love with this resort brand!

Send a soldier a card:  http://www.snapio.com/uso-sandals

Below was taken from the site:


If you have a loved one serving in the armed forces, and want to send them a FREE personalized folded card letting them know you’re thinking of them, then all you have to do is follow these 3 easy steps .
The first step is to choose from over 30 different images to go on the front of your folded card, and then to personalize the card by filling out the information to the right hand side. Afterwards, hit the “Continue” button. The second step is to create an account for security reasons. The last step is to click the link you’ll receive in your email registration and confirmation letter. Once that’s done, the USO will deliver your one-of-a-kind card to your recipient.
For a moment of your time, let that special someone know you’re thinking of them, and that they have your appreciation and support for the service they’re giving our country. 

For more information on this program and Sandals Resorts:

Aston Martin Driving : Nurburgring Driving Academy

I know what I want to do should I find myself in Nurburgrin, Germany! 


Little sparks my interest outside the islands but the though of this is thrilling!  Many who go on European vacations are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For driving enthusiasts, it doesn't get much better than touring the famed Nurburgring track in Germany, the site of many legendary races throughout history. But thanks to a new initiative from Aston Martin, visitors won't just get to see the track, but race on it.

Nurburgring, not far from Frankfurt, attracts racing fans throughout the world. According to MotorTrend, the company has opened the new Nurburgring Driving Academy at their trackside test center. Travelers who pay for lessons will be allowed to get behind the wheel of a car and experience the thrills of track racing. Once drivers pass certain benchmarks, demonstrating their skills and ability, they'll be unleashed on the full 13.5-mile track that has become famous around the world.

"The course underlines both essential elements of Aston Martin driving: road safety and track etiquette," said Wolfgang Schubauer, director of Aston Martin's Nürburgring test center. "We intend that each owner will leave with a clear understanding of their driving skills and a heightened sense of reaction and control."

Even if drivers can't make the trek to Nurburgring, they might want to look into some of Aston Martin's other driving academies, which have popped up across the world.



Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Adults Stay Free at Bolongo Bay Beach Resort in St. Thomas

This morning in my inbox I received this holiday deal from a great resort in St. Thomas!  This would make for a perfect group trip to celebrate the last days of summer!


From Long Island to the Virgin Islands. We have celebrated 36 years of hospitality at Bolongo Bay since we made The Virgin Islands our home in 1969. Dick and Joyce Doumeng became the owners and managers of the property in 1974. Personal involvement with both guests and co-workers was their top priority. That simple idea made a success of Bolongo almost immediately, culminating with Dick & Joyce being awarded the Caribbean Hotel Association's Hotelier of the year in 1988, still the only couple ever to win.
 

Bolongo Bay Beach Resort in St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands is offering an “Adults Stay Free” special offer that provides free stays for a third and fourth adult staying in the same room with two adults paying full rates. In addition, the group will receive a 20 percent discount and a free catamaran sail to swim with turtles, or a sunset cocktail cruise. Under the offer, guests stay at the resort for less than $50 per person, per day. The special offer applies to minimum five-night stays through Oct. 31, 2010, and must be booked by Sept. 30, 2010. With the 20 percent discount, daily rates for ocean-view accommodations start at $212 for August travel and at $193.60 for travel in September and October. The cost per person, per day is $48.40 for travel September and October. The Adults Stay Free offer must be booked by Sept. 30.

Monday, July 19, 2010

Resort Hopping with Secrets & Now Resorts!

I just received the press release below.  This is a fantastic package for those of you looking to see a bit more of Mexico and what AMResorts has to offer or to end a day out in town!  


 AMResorts introduced their Night Out Dine Around Package, a new program that provides guests a chance to enjoy dinner and an evening of entertainment at a neighboring resort within the same brand. The Night Out Dine Around Package is now available for guests of the following neighboring resort groupings: Dreams Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa and Dreams Villamagna Nuevo Vallarta; Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun, Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun and Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun; and Now Jade Riviera Cancun and Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun.

To take advantage of this opportunity, guests will need to speak to their resort’s concierge, who will make all of the necessary arrangements in advance, including arrival and return times and restaurant selection. While dinner and entertainment are complimentary, guests will be responsible for the roundtrip taxi fare and all gratuities. Important to note is that this program is good for one evening in the same brand of resorts that the guest is staying at and the visit is not to be considered a day pass. For more information request a quote from Skyline Destinations!

Friday, June 18, 2010

St. Regis Empire Suite Atlanta: Home Away From Home

St. Regis Empire Suite Atlanta: Home Away From Home



As many of you may or may not know I live in Atlanta.  One of my very favorite clients contacted me the other day and inquired about an extended stay and needed a rather large suite.  As many of you also may know I do not book not do I offer many US destinations.  Atlanta being one.  




 




However in this case I could not decline the chance to work on this project.  I thought about my options as they were quite limited due to my destination and knowing exactly the standard my client was used to and only one resort stood out.  A resort chain I loved in my International Destinations... St. Regis Atlanta.




 



I contacted the sales dept grabed my trusty camera and headed down for a tour of Atlanta's largest and most opulant suite the Empire Suite at St. Regis Atlanta.







 The 2,800 square-foot Empire Suite surrounds guests with every possible luxury, and the potential for many more through the services of a bespoke St. Regis Butler. With a full kitchen and elegant dining area, a piano and a fireplace, the suite is a natural venue for intimate gatherings, whether cocktails or a sit-down dinner.







Surrounded by French doors and several small Juliette balconies, the suite is open and airy. Decorated with fresh flowers, filled with original artwork and architectural drawings and furnished with plush sofas, armchairs, it is as welcoming as any fine private residence





Enjoy the ease and privacy of working out in the suite’s TechnoGym-equipped exercise room, relax in a deep soaking tub in a white marble bathroom, or simply unwind with music or a movie. From the latest technologies to the mahogany swirl, leather wrapped writing desk and chair, any and all desires are met.



 

 Throughout the suite, elegant crown moldings, handcrafted chandeliers and macasser ebony furnishings meld with a soothing color palette to define artful residential style. Hues of cream, taupe and mineral green along with sprays of fresh flowers create a soothing space made even more inviting with floor-to-ceiling windows.


Bookings Provided by:
Allison C Patton
http://www.SkylineDestinations.com