Thursday, November 19, 2009

Pueblo Bonito Resorts Introduce New Spa Treatment Thermage

A little tid-bit for all of you luxury spa goers out there:

Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront resorts in Cabo have partnered up with the renowned Raquel Sarfati Cosmetic Clinic to bring guests an exciting, non-invasive, radio frequency cosmetic treatment designed to help tighten skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and contour the body without surgery, injections or downtime. The Thermage treatment stimulates the body’s natural collagen renewal process to produce natural looking results on the face, eyes and body for an overall youthful appearance and the treatment can be done in just a single treatment.

The treatment will be available at the award-winning Spa at Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach from December 15, 2009 to January 9, 2010 only. Raquel Sarfati is a medical aesthetics practitioner with fifteen years of experience and a trained staff of medical professionals.

Here's the best part: guests staying at any of the Pueblo Bonito resorts can get a complimentary Thermage consultation including a renewal skin analysis, skin care evaluation and colorscience mineral makeup recommendation, valued at $250.00. To download the voucher visit pueblobonito.com/consultation_voucher.php

For more information about Thermage, visit their website at www.thermage.com

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Flashpacking 101

The current state of the economy has significantly changed the travel industry. Deals and discounts are abundant and "staycations" and roadtrips are more popular than ever. One of the more recent travel trends bears the cheeky title "flashpacking" - also known as backpacking with a little flash. Instead of bumming rides down the highway and 20-bed dorm rooms, it's low-cost airlines and decent accommodations with nice bathrooms. One blog simply describes it as "the kind of backpacking that doesn’t have the pesky constraints of a shoestring budget."

TravelandLeisure.com has some excellent suggestions for flashpacking hot spots: Germany’s loftlike BaxPax Berlin (doubles from $64); Loki Lima (doubles from $25), in Peru, with a popular rooftop lounge; and Cape Town’s 13-room Daddy Long Legs Art Hotel (doubles from $83). Sounds like a good deal to me!

B&Bs can also be a good option for the flashpacker inclined. You'll get a room and breakfast included for added value, not to mention the charm and comfort of a real home. Check out BedandBreakfast.com to find an inn that suits your travel outing.



For those of you who thought that "luxury" and "hostel" would never be friends, take a look at Habitat Hostel in Singapore. Habitat proudly declares itself a "boutique flashpackers hostel" and the accomodations are quite inviting. Chic design, fully air-conditioned rooms and unique self-enclosed sleeping pods (complete with reading light and a small ledge for personal items) are ideally meshed with social activities and a prime location - everything you need for a five-star hostel experience. I think it's safe to call that FabTravel.

Essentialy, a "flashpacker" wants to travel without spending too much money, but is willing to pay extra for nice accommodations, good food and whatever else comes along the way. So what do you think? Are YOU a flashpacker?

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Luxury Cabo Wedding Cakes

A Cabo wedding says luxury from start to finish. No detail is overlooked and this includes the cake! Stylish, carefully designed cakes are an essential piece to the overall look of your wedding, and the colorful possibilities are practically endless! Cabo wedding beach cakes can be especially stunning with tropical or soft blue hues and creative beach or travel-themed designs. I've collected a few of my favorite cakes from TheKnot.com - hopefully they can inspire you!


Delicate yellow flowers cascade down a white background on this simple, yet elegant four tiered cake. This look can perfectly complement a beach themed wedding since it can match with a wide variety of colors. Try light blue or even bold red accents for the rest of your wedding decorations to really make your cake stand out!



This whimsical cake is perfect for the couple that has a penchant for travel. The adorable suitcase topper and dotted map lines give the cake a modern feel while the fun but subtle color scheme doesn't make it too over the top.



For a classic luxury feel, go with royal colors such as this ruby red, and an elegant design like the swirls or mini dot clusters. The ribbons at the base of each tier is a popular cake accent and give it a sleek and sophisticated finish. A slight variation on each tier is a great way to give the cake a design that leaves an impression without making it too busy.



This cake was tailored to the bride, as her nickname growing up was "ladybug". Personal touches on a cake can make it very special and with a little creative twist, you're sure to have the perfect cake. As you may have noticed, when it comes to Cabo wedding cakes, simple is best. By using only a few colors with a chic design, your cake will mesh flawlessly with the rest of your wedding.



This cake is a great example of how only a few colors can go a long way. If you want your cake to be a bit more fun and funky, pick three basic colors and a basic shape and let your creative mind mix them up between the tiers. Dots and other geometric shapes make for a cake that's cute, modern and still sleek.



Typically, I don't like Cabo wedding cakes that are gung-ho on the beach theme , with shells and starfish everywhere, but this cake does it so tastefully that I had to include it. The Adirondack chairs on top give it a unique twist and the light blue matches well with the brown sugar sand.

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Fab Eco Travel: Luxury Eco Resorts

co travel is all the rage, but some hotels are greener than others. If you really want to go luxury green traveling, make sure you book an eco resort that truly adheres to eco friendly standards. This means initiatives beyond energy-efficient lightbulbs and low-flow toilets. I'm talking about the real eco resorts that are made from all natural and local materials, grow and serve organic food, use solar energy and implement a full scale recycle program. Sure, it doesn't sound glamorous but you'd be surprised how incredibly inviting these all-natural eco lodges can be. Take a look at some of my top picks for eco resorts from around the world:



La Cocotera Resort - La Barra de Santiago, El Salvador

La Cocotera is a picturesque green hotel in El Salvador designed for those who seek simple luxury and peaceful relaxation. The adorable thatch roof bungalows are mere steps away from the beach, and the beach hammocks that line the premises don't hurt either. For animal lovers, La Cocotera also sponsers a Turtle Release Program for the Olive Ridley sea turtle. Yes, you get to release baby sea turtles into the ocean!

Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa - Queensland, Australia

When I think eco resort, I think beach...but I also think tree tops. Being one with nature is definitely a priority for this breathtaking eco resort. The fifteen villas are nestled into the rainforest in tree house-style and really look like something out of a movie. Ever wanted a massage in the jungle? You can make it happen at Daintree.



Longitude 131° - Northern Territory, Australia

Yay Australia! One look at this picture and you'll know why this made my list of favorites. The fifteen tents are actually on steel stilts to leave the desert sands beneath undisturbed. It may be in the desert, but the accommodations don't skimp on the luxury. Since you're basically out in the middle of nowhere, you really have some time to relax and wonder at the beauty of the Australian outback.



Soneva Fushi by Six Senses - Maldives

If you love pristine beaches and clear blue ocean, Soneva Fushi is the only place you need to go. The resort offers 65 accommodations that are beach luxury at its finest. Each villa opens to its very own stretch of white sand beach just a few steps away, and some even include Private Sea Water Swimming Pools.

What are you favorite eco resorts? Add them in the comments!

Thursday, April 9, 2009

Destination Weddings: The Ultimate FabTravel Experience

It's springtime and lovers are all a-twitter with romantic strolls and wedding plans! I've been cruising through some wedding photo blogs lately (don't ask me why) and have seen so many beautiful photos of destination weddings in Cabo and the like, and I just had to share some of my favorites. Destination weddings sound uh-mazing - you get to travel, blow tons of money AND get married all while looking fabulous? This is right up my alley! Where do I sign up?



Destination Wedding in Cabo - Leigh Miller Photography (from Real Weddings by The Knot)




Destination Wedding in Cabo - Manuel Burgoin




Destination Wedding in Colorado - Julie Harris Photography (amazing photos, I highly recommend going to to her website and seeing more!)




Destination Wedding in Mazatlan - Larry Scott Photography




Destination Wedding in Cancun - Manuel Burgoin



Destination Wedding in Nuevo Vallarta - Stephanie Williams

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

San Diego Hotel Sé Opens New Nightclub "Sìrén"



San Diego's hottest new luxury hotel, , has just bumped it up a notch and opened its rooftop bar/lounge, Sìrén. The 7,000 square-foot hot spot features an infinity edge pool with underwater surround sound, a large central teak bar, eight private cabanas with bottle service and oversized beds. Sounds a lot like the Ivy rooftop bar. We'll see who really comes out on top. Sé is located at 1047 Fifth avenue, between Broadway and C.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Bad Economy = Luxury Mexico Vacations for Less? It's true.



What's that you say? Luxury vacations for less? It's true. Luxury hotels are offering special deals and discounted rates left and right. The latest is from Pueblo Bonito Luxury Resorts and Spas in Mexico. They have announced a "Stimulus Package" promotion that will consist of a series of different offerings all throughout 2009. Currently, the promotion is 4th and 7th nights freeeeee at any of their Mazatlan or Cabo hotels. UPDATE: The current promotion is 35% of rates at their Mazatlan and Cabo hotels plus Kids Stay, Eat and Play Free.

Other promotions that will be sprinkled throughout the year include a Kids Eat, Stay and Play Free promo, spa credits and discounted rates (up to half off). You can read the official press release on their blog. Sounds like the perfect opportunity to take that long awaited vacation to Cabo!

Monday, March 30, 2009

Win a Romantic Retreat to Los Cabos AND Swim with Dolphins? Cha-ching!

What's better than luxury travel? Luxury travel for free! Cabo Adventures and Pueblo Bonito hotels have teamed up to offer a pretty sweet prize. One lucky couple can win a relaxing 4-day/5-night vacation to the Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Cabo hotel and two passes to the Cabo Adventure complex where you can swim with ze dolphins. The contest ends on April, 7th 2009 so if you want a shot at paradise, hurrrrrry. Go here to enter!




Monday, March 16, 2009

St. Patrick's Day for the Elite - Luxury Hotels in Ireland



The Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt, County Wicklow

I've never really thought of St. Patrick's day as a luxury travel event, but it very well could be! Who says you can't drink green beer and be fabulous at the same time? Well if you're going to go all out, you have to go to Ireland! I did a little research and found some of the most luxurious places to stay at the end of the old rainbow. Check it out.

Aghadoe Heights This luxury resort overlooks the world famous lakes and mountains of Killarney. This unique 5 star luxury hotel offers stunning features including an Aveda Spa, Fitness suite, swimming pool, extensive terrace and lounges along with stunning bedrooms & suites, all with spectacular views of the Kerry landscape, lakes and mountain range.

Here's the full description of The Penthouse Suite from the Aghadoe Heights website:
Situated on the roof top of The Spa at The Heights, The Penthouse, all 3,000 sq. ft, offers 360 degree vistas of the Lakes, mountains, Killarney and indeed Kerry. The Penthouse is accessible by private lift comprises a spacious lobby, extensive reception lounge and dining area facilitating 22 guests, private study, 2 luxurious bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, private Roof Top Terrace with Outdoor Hot Tub, plasma screen and piped music. Your home away from home or a dream come true- the Penthouse at Aghadoe is simply unique and among the finest in Europe.
The Clarence Dublin's premier boutique hotel located in the heart of the city on the famous River Liffey. Owned by Bono & The Edge of Irish rock group U2, The Clarence is very much a reflection of 21st century Ireland. A personal vision of the hotel's owners, representing a place that they would choose to stay in when visiting Dublin.

The Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt, County Wicklow Set amidst one of the most scenic and historic estates in Ireland, The Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt, County Wicklow is a 200- room resort showcasing Palladian style architecture and offering guests a host of amenities. Two championship-calibre golf courses on the grounds, a 30,000 square foot luxury spa by ESPA and a Gordon Ramsay signature restaurant are among the distinctive attractions of this first Ritz-Carlton in Ireland.

Ashford Castle You can't make a list of luxury places to stay in Ireland with mentioning at least one castle. You can pretend to be a real prince or princess at the Ashford Castl, voted "Best Resort" in Ireland by Conde Nast in 2008, and 2nd Best Resort in Europe. Ashford Castle in Mayo, Ireland has an unsurpassed reputation for providing guests with the very finest accommodation. Many of the rooms retain their original features and all are equipped with modern amenities including Broadband connectivity and Interactive TV.

Dromoland Castle Okay two castles! Standing majestically over 410 acres of its own private demesne, Dromoland Castle quietly affirms itself as one of the most impressive and distinguished castle hotels in Ireland - and one of Europe's most desired 5 Star destinations.

If you're interested in visiting Ireland and staying at the Dromoland Castle, they are currently doing a special Easter Offer - Three nights Deluxe Accommodation, Full Irish Breakfast and Table d'Hote Dinner on two evenings. Yum!



Friday, March 13, 2009

Feeling Fabulous in The Golden Zone - Mazatlan Hotels and Nightlife



Mazatlan is a tried and true vacation destination for those looking to party it up. While the climate is hot and the beaches are beautiful, Mazatlan also posesses a certain old world charm, making it a wonderful destination for cultural exploration and laid back style.

 If you're looking for a wild night out, Mazatlan has plenty of spots to drink, dance and be merry. Senor Frog's Mazatlan (the very first Senor Frogs!) is the perfect place to start. The place has almost become a cult following among those looking to have a good time. The party atmosphere is "legendary and every night is something new." Senor Frog's has good food, a good view, good drinks. That's pretty much all you need!



For a more trendy club experience, try Sumbawa, a popular beach themed nightclub where all the young people are bound to be. Who wants to dance the night away on the sand with me? Another classic dance club experience can be found at Bora Bora, where if the floor is too packed (as it usually is) people dance on the bars!

And don't forget about Fiesta Land. It is what it sounds like.  Located at the end of the Golden Zone, this collection of restaurants and clubs offers different styles and music for all tastes. Whether you want to dance to the latest club mixes or sit down for some romantic piano music, Fiesta Land has you covered. 



All that dancing and drinking will no doubt leave you in need of some rest and relaxation. Enjoy a luxury spa experience at the Mazatlan hotel, Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay. The resort boasts a state-of-the-art spa with such signature treatments as the Therapeutic Desert Stone Massage. It's the perfect way to make your fun-filled Mazatlan vacation truly FabTravel. 

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Can't Buy Me Love! But You Can Buy Me the Tackiest Wedding Ever

Since it's getting to be wedding season (destination weddings in Cabo anyone?) I just had to share this little gem I found on a blog called Tacky Weddings - teehee! This has less to do with luxury travel and more to do with spending money on awful things. This lovely bride has designed the wedding of her dreams/our nightmare, complete with crop top and skirt wedding dress, Ursula crown and an inappropriately dressed mother. P.S. The bride and groom are 16 and 17. Whatever floats your boat, right?



See the rest of the beautiful weddings photos here!

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Top Spring Break Hot Spots for 2009


Spring Break! Woo!

For Spring Break 2009, I expect college students to be taking a nice, relaxing, sun-soaked vacation in their backyards. But if you're still hell bent on having the time of your life, here are the top destinations for Spring Break 2009 (Spoiler Alert: they're the same as every year).

1. Cancun, Mexico
2. Panama City Beach, FL (location of this year's MTV Spring Break 09 thing)
3. South Padre Island, TX
4. Acapulco, Mexico
5. Mazatlan, Mexico
6. Nassau, Bahamas
7. Negril, Jamaica
8. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
9. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
10. Baja (Rosarito Beach, Cabo), Mexico

WOW, Mexico stormed the list! What a suprise! Hey, the party's at where the party's at, right? That was awkward to type. Remember that if you're going to Mexico, you need your passport!

Monday, February 23, 2009

San Diego Vacation Rentals are for Cool People

Looking for a fun, fabulous and unique way to enjoy your vacation? Try a luxury San Diego vacation rental. You can plan a romantic weekend away for two, or an amenity-filled group getaway with your friends. Luxury vacation rentals come with everything you could ever want on a beach vacation - jacuzzi, bbq, swanky beachfront deck, an amazing view and of course San Diego has amazing summer weather.

Imagine waking up in a big comfortable and cozy house - not a teeny, stuffy hotel room - and then strolling right out to the beach for some surfing and sunbathing. Mmm delicious.

Since I'm from San Diego, I have been looking into this whole luxury vacation rental thing quite intensely. It seems to be a very cool way to spend a weekend or a even a whole week!

Penny Realty is the "trusted leader in San Diego vacation rentals" so I've been perusing their listings. They've got some pretty cool looking houses available - I definitely want the one with the cool open air deck and extremely large living room. Did I mention it's right on the beach?

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

$43,000 Will Buy You Two Dead Birds



Who wants to fork over $43,000 dollars for some roadkill? Roger Vivier says you do! Check out these rockin' robin shoes! Yeah, those are real birds.

Each stuffed bird has a crystal-encrusted head, 24 ct gold-coated mesh, silk, ribbons and crocodile-skin rosettes. Every pair also comes with special protective crocodile or snakeskin platforms that attach to the bottom of the shoes so they never have to come into contact with the ground. You only have to wait three months after you order them, presumably because they need time to hatch and raise the birds before killing and hot glue-ing them to the front of a pair of generic gold shoes. Oh what money can buy!

Vivier does have some other shoes in his 2009 Spring/Summer collection that are quite unique and kinda cute too. If you want to travel in style, definitely consider some of his shoes.


Source: Luxist.com

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Forbes List: World's Most Decadent Hotel Amenities

True luxury travel is more than just a nice big room - it's what comes with the room. Come one, come all, and read about the extravagant amenities available at some of the the world's most luxurious hotels.


Pet Services
- Pet's are luxury travelers too! If you think you love your pet, image to what lengths a rich pet owner would go to make sure their furry friend is taken care of. At the Lowell New York, the pet room service menu includes filet mignon tartar and organic buffalo marrow bone. Sounds more gourmet than most of my meals. It doesn't stop there. Pets that need pampering will enjoy an aromatherapy spray, oatmeal shampoo or paw moisturizer treatments.


Butler Service
- There are more than 150 butler programs around the world, including those at the Marriott Moscow Royal Aurora, the Rixos Hotel Premium Belek in Turkey and the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel in Hawaii. Butler service gets pretty specific at Keswick Hall, an Orient-Express hotel in Virginia. New moms can take advantage of the baby butler - they warm bottles, place a rocking chair and personalized crib in the room and rock the baby to sleep while mom soaks in the tub.


Excursions -
Who says you can't go on vacation while you're on vacation? At the Banyan Tree Phuket, guests can fly by private plane to a secluded island where they'll watch the sunrise over breakfast.


Transport -
Instead of arriving at the hotel by taxi, why not roll up in a Bentley or Rolls Royce? The JW Marriott in Beijing will escort guests from the airport in one of these. At Taj Palaces in India, guests arrive in a restored vintage car and are greeted by hotel staff--as well as elephants and camels.


Details -
It's hard to feel truly doted upon without the little touches. At the Ritz Madrid in Spain, monogrammed robes are placed in a guest's room before arrival. The Conrad Bangkok in Thailand provides its guests with personalized milk, white and dark chocolate business cards.


Tech Stuff -
It's a tech world and the hotel industry is not one to be left behind. Plasma TVs, DVD players and iPod docking stations are increasingly common at high-end hotels. Aloft, a W Hotel brand, offers guests the ability to plug and play with a 42" LCD TV that hooks up to other electronic devices. At Pueblo Bonito's Cabo hotel, Pacifica, guests are provided with their own iPods - while they lounge on a private beach bed and enjoy a gourmet 3 course dinner and champagne.

Want to read more? See the full list of Forbe's World's Decadent Hotel Amenities!

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Brangelina Continues to Disgust Us With Their Perfection

Breaking entertainment news guys:

Angelina Jolie Misplaces $1.6M Diamond Earrings

Angie on way to airport when she realized she didn't have the earrings

Yeah, she has 1.6 million dollar earrings. Oh, the traveling woes of the rich and famous.
Why they're so sickeningly perfect:

Exhibit A:


Aww teaching the kids with books and stuff.

Exhibits B - F:
  • They have "adorable six-month-old twins, Knox and Vivienne" and they couldn't be happier with their big family.

  • Angelina says, "He is the man that made all my dreams come true" about Brad and Brad says "[Angelina's beauty] never gets old." !!!

  • They're both considered someone of the most beautiful people in the world.

  • They make millions of dollars and get to travel all over the world as a family.

  • To top it all off, they've both been nominated for best actor/actress for this year's Academy Awards.
Why must you everything fall so perfectly in place for you? Why Brangelina why?
Read the full article about the earrings here

Monday, February 9, 2009

In the Lap of Luxury (for V-day, at least!): Cabo Spas



With Valentine's day around the corner, everyone has dimly-lit restaurants, chocolates and relaxing couple's massages on the mind.

Well what better place to enjoy a weekend away from it all than Cabo San Lucas, Mexico! And if you're going for a romantic vacation, you have to visit one of the many luxurious Cabo spas. Hey, a Cabo hotel vacation is good any time of the year, not just Valentine's day :)

Pueblo Bonito's Cabo spas are uh-mazing, and I highly recommend them to anyone looking for complete pampering and relaxation. Here is just a short list of the luxurious spa treatments they offer, from facials to manicures to a million different types of massages.

Honey Scrub
An innovative body treatment that nourishes and regenerates the skin by exfoliating dead cells, revealing smooth, healthy skin. Its exclusive formula incorporates crystallized honey, which nurtures and hydrates the skin, and a delicate floral scent that promotes relaxation. This soothing treatment ends with a body lotion massage. 50 minutes - $110.00 USD

Temazcal
A steam bath of pre-Hispanic origin that is utilized for therapeutic, detoxifying and ritual purposes. Exotic! Healing benefits include menstrual period regulation, release of muscle tension, and release of stress and negative energy. The close quarters are also great for bonding and "introspective exploration". Ceremony - $130.00

Therapeutic Stone Massage
A wonderfully soothing treatment that includes a variety of massage techniques combined with the healing properties of heated river stones. These smooth stones are placed on key tension areas to open the chakras or energy channels. This massage is designed to take you into a deep state of relaxation. 80 minutes $170.00





For The Guys: Gentleman's Nourishing Facial

A remarkable treatment specifically designed for men. This facial begins with a deep pore cleansing with enzyme peeling and steam. A relaxing anti-stress facial massage follows, ending with a hydrating mask. As a final touch, a moisturizer and soothing gel are applied to prevent razor burn and sensitivity. For best results, we recommend shaving prior to the treatment. 50 minutes - $100.00

Couple's Massage
The perfect choice for couples. Massages are given side-by-side on two separate tables, each with your own therapist, in a relaxing private environment. Select from Swedish, Sport or Deep Tissue massage. 50 minutes $200.00, 80 minutes $280.00

For more indulgences, check out the complete list of luxury spa services.

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Hotels on Myspace

Hotels on Facebook? Check. Hotels on Twitter? Double check. Hotels on Myspace? Hmmm... well it comes as no surprise that hotels have plugged into this vast social network but it took a little work to find some good ones. I was curious to see how hotel Myspace profiles would look and how they would approach the whole thing and it was actually pretty interesting to see what worked...and what didn't.

Vibes Hotels - Definitely the best one I've seen. Very sleek design that actually loads fairly fast! It's well organized, clean and just generally very visually appealing. Two thumbs for this Australian hotel chain. Could use some more info about the hotels though - but I guess that's what the real website is for.

Luxor - Captures the essence of Myspace and Las Vegas very nicely. The color black, clubbing, gettin' crunk, being fabulous, etc. Customized design, looks like it's updated pretty frequently, thousands of friends and very user-interactive. Good job Luxor. You are dominating the social media scene.

Mandalay Bay - The layout had a lot of potential in terms of colors and photo placement, but a few elements are cut off, which is very off-putting.

Pueblo Bonito - They kept it simple, so it looks good and I can read all about their Cabo hotels with ease. Who says you need to be flashy to be credible?

Hotel Chelsea - Okay this one is actually a tribute to the Hotel, not made and managed by the hotel. Weird. The page has a cool artsy background with a collage of pictures making one picture but it makes it hard to see anything else. Whatever, they're artists.

Ghostbar at W Hotel Dallas - Let me just say that this fits the Myspace vibe perfectly. Party party party and about 5 million too many pictures.

Monday, February 2, 2009

Madagascar (not the movie): A Luxury Travel Destination?


Madagascar is more than just a kid's movie! Did you know that some people think it is a made up place? Well it is not. Madagascar is a tropical island (the fourth-largest in the world) off the southeastern shores of Africa. The island is home to many exotic plants and endangered animals, including the lemur, a type of primate found only in Madagascar and surrounding islands. In fact, most of the plants and animal species in Madagascar are found nowhere else in the world.

Want more fun facts? Madagascar is the world's largest producer and exporter of vanilla.

Okay, so it's a fabulous place for ecologists, but is it a worthy luxury travel destination? While Madagascar is considered a third-world country, the presence of breath taking natural surroundings and just general unique-ness (who wouldn't want to see a ring-tailed lemur up close?) and remote-ness have made way for a few luxury hotel and resort gems. With the rise of the eco-tourism market, travel to Madagascar has become increasingly popular.

Anjajavy
Set along the Mozambique Channel in an extremely diverse environment, the hotel comprises an outstanding complex of 25 rosewood villas. Each villa features a large terrace facing the ocean, a living room area and breakfast area and a bed room. A small staircase provides access to the first floor which features a relaxation room that can be used as an office or children’s/guest room.

The nature reserve alongside the hotel is home to over 1,800 floral species, most of which are endemic to the country along with many medicinal plants. The forest is also home to many animal species such as the famous Sifaka lemur, birds of paradise, chameleons and Cuvier’s oplure (a type of iguana).

Anjajavy can be accessed by plane from the private airline Air Hotel from Antananarivo or Nosy Be.


Constance Lodge Tsarabanjina
This luxury eco resort is actually on its own island of the same name, and is comprised of twenty-one thatched-roof bungalows looking out on the sea, each with private terrace built from rosewood. Every bungalow is unique and bears the name of a flower, a tree or fish. In addition to the supreme seclusion and "an island, all your own, just for you" concept, the resort is an ideal place for diving, kayaking, nature walks and other eco activities.






Princess Bora Lodge - Ile Sainte Marie
Located on Sainte-Marie, a small island just off the northeast coast of Madagascar, the Princess Bora Lodge is a beach-lovers paradise. The hotel boasts two private beaches, Coco Bay and Clipper Bay, both of which are surrounded by a large forest of coconut trees.

The Executive Beach Villas include a large central bathtub made of stone, a double shower, a double basin, separate closets, a wide terrace and a king size bed that faces the Indian Ocean. Everything from the food to the spa treatments is unique and luxurious, but it doesn't stop there. Bicycle, kayak and snorkel gear rentals are all included, and if you crave more than just basking in the resorts superb surroundings, activities such as whale watching and scuba diving area also readily available.

There are many other beautiful options in Madagascar, ranging from luxurious to adventurous to all-natural. Each make for a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else in the world - that in itself is a luxury!

Monday, January 26, 2009

Luxury Travel can be "Green" too - La Cocotera Eco Resort



Green is the new black...even in the world of travel! Luxury eco resorts are popping up all over the place and the morphing of "environmentally-friendly" and "luxury travel" couldn't have come at a better time.

Our featured resort this week is La Cocotera Resort, an all-inclusive luxury eco resort in El Salvador.



Located on the beautiful shores of La Barra de Santiago in El Salvador, La Cocotera Resort aims to support the local people and environment while offering visitors picturesque accomodations, fresh food and lots of relaxation. One big plus of the resort is that it is far away from big crowds or touristy areas. A main focus of eco travel is educating visitors about the importance of our environment and how beautiful nature can be. By experiencing nature in such a positive way, eco resorts such as La Cocotera hope to inspire and encourage travelers to do their part in saving the environment.

Besides many nature tours, birdwatching, kayaking and other adventurous activities, the resort offers visitors the unique opportunity to release baby Olive Ridley turtles in to the ocean as part of a special turtle release program.



According to the website, La Cocotera eco resort was built by locals using local natural materials such as palm fronds, sustainable teak wood, plant vines, natural stone and hand woven fabrics. The resort also utilizes solar energy for all hot water and has its own state-of-the-art waste water recycling system. Everything is environmentally safe down to the soaps, shampoos and cleaning products. Visit www.lacocoteraresort.com for more information and for reservations.

Monday, January 19, 2009

Luxury Mexico Resort Reviews

One thing all luxury travelers must do is read lots of reviews of the hotels they intend to book. What's even better than finding a decent review? Writing your own amazing review and - hold up - getting PAID to do it. Well if that interests you then check out sarasmexico.com. Unfortunately, the site focuses exclusively on luxury resort vacations in Mexico, but if that's where the wind is taking you, these reviews are actually quite good. They are descriptive, straightforward and tell you all the details you want to know from whether the rooms have WiFi to what the best nearby restaurants are. It's pretty nifty.

The site includes such luxury fare as Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach reviews, Grand Mayan Acapulco reviews, and reviews of the top all-inclusive Omni Cancun.

Did I mention you can get paid for submitting a good review?

Friday, January 16, 2009

Celebrity Travel Style - What to Wear

There are 2 things you really must have to travel in celebrity style this winter: A trench coat and boots. Pair those with ANYTHING that matches and a pair of huge dark sunglasses and you'll have paparazzi all over you.


Okay I guess there's bit more to it than that. Especially if you plan to travel not in the winter. Who does that? Here are a few fab things that can make you the pinnacle of fashion on your luxury vacation:

1. A Chic Carryall
A definite must. Designer brand is best. Louis Vuitton, Prada, Marc Jacobs, Chanel, etc. Make sure the label shows. See my other post on Designer Luggage for some cute luggage pics.

Chloe Andy Canvas Tote


2. Sarong

Wear it over your suit as a skirt or a dress and you'll be sexy and stylin'. If you're going on a beach-y vacation pick bright tropical colors like hot pink, yellow or a bright teal.

3. Long Comfy Dress
A "maxi-dress", as they call it, is a great great thing. These dresses are trendy, comfortable, and you can work it from the airport to shopping to dinner. Try pairing it with a cute cardigan, and of course a cute bag and a pillow with an LV pillow case (do they make those?).

Eva knows what's up.

4. A Hat
Straw fedora hats are all the rage. Little slouchy knit berets are great for that hip casual look. Or go with your own signature style a la Gwen Stefani. Just wear a hat okay?


5. Mix and match stuff

"You only need a few key items to mix and match the entire trip," says Nicolette Prpa, world traveler and owner of chic Chicago boutique SHE. Try choosing a color theme for all of your vacation clothes. Neutral tones or simple black and white are always smart, sophisticated and goooood lookin'. Layer your pieces and add some cool accessories and you're as fab as Fergie. You know, if you want to be.

6. Designer Sunglasses.
Or ones that look designer. This one is really a no-brainer. Go big, go dark or go home. Brown sunglasses are cool too. Do NOT get this "creative" with your look:



But we love your sunglasses, Victoria!