A Luxury Travel Blog

The following is a new ad from Royal Caribbean targeted at people who are new to cruising. What do you think? Do you love it or do you just find it too corny? Does it hit the mark or would you rather see more about the ships than hear people talking into a shell?

Which is the best kind of tropical island holiday? One where you lie on the same spot of the beach every day, read a couple of paperbacks, barely leave your lounger and pay exorbitant prices for imported water? Or one with benefits that last well after the tan has faded? Where you come back feeling re-energised, reinvigorated, re-inspired and re-ignited?

For those who tick the second box, LUX* Island Resorts launches this month at three hotels on Mauritius, one in the Maldives and one on Ile de La Réunion. The new brand, which replaces Naïade Resorts Ltd, represents the complete re-launch of the company and the culmination of an intensive twelve months of painstaking preparation and rehearsal.

CEO Paul Jones, a passionate hotelier and travel industry expert, was previously a key member of the team responsible for launching the highly aspirational One&Only brand. When he took over the fading Naïade Resorts group in late 2010, he and his management team saw an opportunity to create something truly unique in its place. They recognised that luxury itself had undergone a sea change: no longer synonymous with excess and bling, true luxury has become simpler, fresher and more individual.

Inspired by this change, it was agreed that rather than offering the standard sun, sea and sand 5-star vacation, LUX* Island Resorts would be defined by an experience that had been entirely and radically re-conceptualised.

The manifestation of this change is Island Light, the signature concept that will run at all LUX* Island Resorts. Adopting a name which is Latin for light, the new brand is dedicated to staging a lighter, brighter and less complicated holiday experience. Jones compares the concept to a musical production, where each resort is a theatre and its staff is the cast producing a show-stopping performance every day.

At its core is the commitment to doing the ordinary extraordinarily. Freshly-roasted organic coffee, retro-styled ice-cream parlours, on-the-beach film screenings, pop-up restaurants, integrated wellness & spa programmes, honesty bars and libraries of cool magazines are individually tempting, but it is the cumulative impact of these and a whole raft of other carefully choreographed Island Light experiences – underpinned by truly incredible service – which adds up to an exhilarating change of direction within the ’sea of sameness’ that most resorts offer.

LUX* recognises that it is the audience – the guests – who count most and Jones is confident that this new brand of simpler, more relaxed and more individual luxury – underpinned with truly incredible service – will have wide appeal: “I have spent 35 years designing, building, operating and managing resorts in exotic destinations around the world”, says Jones, “this project has presented me with an opportunity to contribute all that knowledge and insight. We are doing more than simply changing the name of the Company or putting a new brand on our hotels. Island Light is the summation of many different ingredients, which when experienced as a whole are a very powerful alternative to the usual island resort holiday. LUX* has determined its purpose as ‘Helping People Celebrate Life’ and that is what every
member of our team is committed to and has pledged to deliver”.

We’ve touched on the much-debated subject of hotel reviews on this blog before. Whether you like them or loathe them, it seems they are here to stay. And, since it’s Friday, here’s a light-hearted look from comedian Michael McIntyre about them:

Hoteliers… look away now!  It’s Friday so we thought we’d let our hair down a little and share this video with you.  It would seem Natalie Tran likes to have breakfast in her room, but doesn’t want to pay for room service.  Instead, she shows how you can make your own cooked breakfast using one or two items that can be found in your room.

Disclaimer: don’t try this at home (or in a hotel)…

Now that the Dreamliner has officially taken off on its maiden voyage, CNBC is taking you inside this much-anticipated aircraft with the documentary, “Dreamliner: Inside the World’s Most Anticipated Airline”, which airs tonight at 9pm. What does it really look like? Will it change the future of travel? What is so special about the Dreamliner that some think it will revolutionize the aviation industry?  Clips from the show can be viewed below:

This is clearly fake but it’s Friday so time for a little fun… sit back and admire what is possibly the world’s shortest train! And when you’re done, feel free to re-tweet, share on Facebook, Google+ or whatever… enjoy!

OK, so the subject is perhaps a little misleading… but hopefully you still won’t be disappointed with this fascinating timelapse video of the Boeing 777-200LR being slowly – or quickly, depending on how you look at it – pieced together in Everett, Washington, USA.

If you’re looking to travel in complete luxury, then you want to fly in first class. For some of us it’s something we can only dream of, for others it’s a regular occurrence. Airlines throughout the world compete to capture this high-value, luxury market by providing exceptional quality, services and features. When flying first class you can be treated to an experience like no other, including fine dining restaurants, LCD TV screens, flat beds, Dom Perignon Champagne and exclusive terminal lounges. We all enjoy cheap flights but enjoying true luxury in the sky comes at a price. If this sounds like an experience you would like to indulge in, then I’ve taken the hard work out of trying each airline and put together my list of top 5 first class airlines.

1. Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines provide an experience that can be crafted the way you like it. An option of Dom Perignon or Krug champagne is a great start and combined with food how and when I want it makes this the food-lovers perfect flight! All at once or in courses, you can treat yourself to the way you wish to be served. Combine this with a huge seat that flattens into a bed, oversized pillows and a Givenchy sleep suit and you’ve got yourself one pleasurable plane ride.

2. Qatar Airways

The seats on Qatar Airways aren’t quite as long as Singapore Airlines, but nevertheless match them in quality and comfort. What makes the first class experience so enjoyable with this airline is the separate terminal that includes a Jacuzzi and sauna, as well as fine dining restaurants and a medical centre. You’ll want to arrive ahead of schedule to enjoy what you’ve paid for.

3. Malaysia Airlines

This airline comes in third due to the quality of service. If you’re looking for the royal treatment, you will get it with Malaysia Airlines. Like the other airlines, seats become flat beds and you get a personal TV screen. Enjoy the luxury of some exceptional Malaysian cuisine that’s served with a smile.

4. Cathay Pacific

There’s two things that make this a luxurious experience – outstanding food and massage chairs! Each seat sits behind panels that create a suite-like feel. The super long chairs not only feature built-in massagers, but also lay down as flat beds. The food on Cathay Pacific is exceptional and probably the best of the bunch. If you’re looking for a good in-flight meal, add these guys to your consideration list.

6. Thai Airways

While not as comfortable as some of the other airlines, Thai Airways gives you the complete experience, from personal concierges that checks you in and fast tracks you through customs and immigration to a choice of 22 entrees that can be pre-ordered for your flight. Once again they provide 180-degree flat beds and a spa in their exclusive first-class lounge.

The experience of flying first-class changes your opinion of flying altogether. No longer are you sitting in cramped, economy-class seats but enjoying the luxury of a bed, exceptional service, exclusive lounges and exquisite meals. Once you go first-class, it’s hard to fly any other way.

Richard Greenwood is the Marketing Director at Flight Centre Australia.

If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.

Have you been to Greece?  If not, sit back and listen to visitors from all over the world as they tell you what it is like to travel to Greece courtesy of a series of ‘You in Greece’ testimonials. For more information, see www.visitgreece.gr

American Independence Day is one of the most universally celebrated events in America where the people get together and celebrate the 1776 Declaration of Independence from the British Empire. You can find yourself in many different places all over the country so here is a list of the top 5 places around the country to celebrate this event.

1. Washington D.C

Starting at 11:45 the Nations Capital offers a variety of excitement throughout the Glorious Fourth starting off with a parade on Constitution Avenue and continuing through with bands, drum corps, floats, military unity, giant balloons, VIP’s and celebrity participants with the organisers attempting to represent each of the 50 states in the constitution. You will be celebrating with hundreds of thousands of patriotic Americans. The celebrations continue into the evening with the National Symphony Orchestra and the countries largest firework display. An unforgettably light hearted and well spirited event.

2. Manhattan Island – New York

Whilst many residents of the bustling Manhattan Island tend to make their way to the beach to spend the usually hot beginning of July in the sun, but to do so you’d miss some of the most interesting events with the 4th of July Hot Dog Eating Contest hosted at Nathans on Coney Island followed by Macys Firework Display in the evening. There are a variety of dinner cruises available to get a great view of the fireworks from the Hudson River then you can finish the night off with the Battery 4th of July Concert and Family festival in Battery Park.

3. San Diego – California

A hot July 4th in California will insight thousands of people to spend their national holiday on one of the many San Diego County beaches. The San Diego beaches are the only ones in California where alcohol is allowed on the beach, so many like minded people flock to the shores to enjoy the beautiful weather, the day off work and the fireworks sent out over Pacific Beach visible from any one of the beaches. A great party atmosphere and is the place to be if that’s what you’re looking for.

4. New Orleans – Louisiana

If one place in the USA needs the support of a celebratory public, it’s New Orleans, but through the horrible luck they’ve had, they still see the brighter side that they have their health and do so by conducting one of the most heartfelt parades and fireworks displays in the country. Go 4th on the River is the primary celebration on the banks of the Mississippi river with plenty of food, music and fireworks.

5. Boston – Massachusetts

Hosting more than 200 events over 6 days surrounding the 4th of July starting on the first the celebrations in Boston are extremely patriotic, celebrating the city’s maritime and colonial heritage. The key place to be then is down on the waterfront, in and around the Harbour Islands and in Downtown where you can expect to see a whole host of celebrations commemorating the country’s independence in 1776. Live music, eating contests, barbeques, cruises and parades are what you can expect to participate in on these holidays.

Wherever you choose to celebrate the 4th of July you can be sure that you will have a great time in the friendly and patriotic atmosphere and a no less than spectacular event that everyone should experience once in their lifetime.

Peter Richards is a Digital Marketing Manager at Tropical Sky.

If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.

Watch Virgin Australia’s new television commercial which features industry experts Juli Grbac, responsible for the Virgin Australia uniforms and Hans Hulsbosch, who created the new airline’s logo and plane design.

Over the last four years, we’ve gradually become accustomed to the wonders of Google Street View and the insights it has given us.  You might already be familiar with the fact that Street View isn’t just limited to… well… streets. The same technology has also been used inside the football grounds that were used for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, as well as on historic landmarks in Italy such as the Colosseum and Pompeii.

Now it sounds like Google are about to take it to the next level and is asking businesses to volunteer to have their interiors photographed using the same technology. Watch this space… I’m sure it won’t be long before you’ll be able to virtually walk around a luxury hotel courtesy of Google Street View. Maybe even a restaurant or two. Meanwhile learn more by watching the video below.

Majorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands and lies in the Mediterranean Sea just off of the South East coast of Spain. Being further south comes with its benefits and being closer to the equator brings you a much warmer atmosphere. Majorca is a beautiful island and with it brings some beautiful culture. In Palma lies the magnificent 14th Century Gothic cathedral which truly is a stunning sight and with some of the friendliest locals in Europe this really is a fantastic holiday destination. Along with the stunning sights and the beautiful beaches there are so many top hotels in Majorca and this article will bring you the top 5.

Barcelo Formentor

Located on the Formentor peninsula of Majorca, this luxurious hotel offers many activities and a wonderfully sized pool. With just a 300 metre walk to one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe this is a fantastic holiday destination for people of all ages. As would be expected of a 5 Star hotel air conditioning and TV are included and even personalised service for all. Along these features there is also a gymnasium, boutique, sauna and tennis courts for all guests to enjoy.

Serrano Palace

This stunning hotel is located in the fishing village of Cala Ratjada region of Majorca. With its inspiring views over the Son Moll beach this truly is a beautiful hotel. It accommodates some lovely pools, a very relaxing spa and a number of different restaurants. The hotel offers excellent value for money when compared to other hotels in its 5 Star class.  It also offers a billiard table, golf facilities and a spa with aquatic massages.

Gran Melia Victoria

This utterly high class hotel is set in the beautiful surroundings of Palma, Majorca. It offers its customers 17th Century architecture, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, hot tubs, massages on request and exclusive access to a casino nearby the hotel. There are so many historical attractions within walking distance of the hotel for people of all ages to enjoy. This hotel offers true luxury and style for those who enjoy to be pampered. It offers an outdoor and indoor swimming pool, spa and massage. It also has a number of restaurants including a Vanitas Restaurant, an A La Carte Restaurant and a Piano Bar.

Hotel Port Adriano

This luxurious hotel located in the Calvia area of Majorca, offers a wide range of activities for people of all ages. Situated directly on the beach is just a stone’s throw from many other great attractions. With golf courses-a-plenty in this area of a Majorca there really is something for everyone. Alongside the beautiful white beaches is a yachting harbour accommodating over 400 moorings. The two on site restaurants offer both Mediterranean and International cuisine and both facing the sea are a fantastic way to indulge in the evenings. With a stunning infinity swimming pool looking out over the Mediterranean Sea, a sauna, Turkish bath and fitness room, this lovely hotel manages to fit in everything you would expect from the best of resorts.

La Residencia

This hotel offers something a little bit different to your usual luxury hotel. La Residencia’s gardens are an array of different coloured plants and flowers and this really is the way to relax when on holiday. Guests can really do whatever they want, anything from learning to swim to exploring the historic culture of the region. Facilities include two outdoor pools, one indoor pool, a spa, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and many others. This hotel is the hotel to visit if you wish to have a truly relaxing holiday away.

(Unfortunately, oehotel’s YouTube channel doesn’t allow their video to be embedded into other websites. Head over there if you want to view it.)

Danielle Thornton is Editor of Puerto Pollensa Hotels.

If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.

Using the experience perfected at its 123 spas around the globe, Hilton Hotels & Resorts launched a new spa concept towards the end of last year – eforea: spa at Hilton. The first eforea spa was opened at Hilton Short Hills in New Jersey, a AAA Four Diamond hotel located 45 minutes from Manhattan. eforea will feature a full menu of treatments and products, including three signature treatments or “journeys” comprised of a selection of face, body, and massage treatments with select add-in options. The spas will use and offer for sale products from three high-end beauty companies: Kerstin Florian, L’ITYA organic products and VitaMan, an Australian men’s skincare line. Currently there are more than 80 Hilton hotels under development that will feature eforea spas, including properties in Thailand, Japan, UAE and the Maldives. For more information, watch the video below:

With teNeues’ new travel apps, luxury travellers can quickly navigate through a curated selection of trendy restaurants, bars, hotels, shopping and highlights in metropolitan cities. There are three ways to explore: choose to search by category or district or be located on a map to see what is around you. The apps are based on the recently redesigned and bestselling COOL CITIES print guides and are image driven so it is easy to determine if the atmosphere will suite your style.

The first two apps to be released are specifically for New York City and Berlin, Germany with many more major cities to follow. Cool New York and Cool Berlin (available for the iPhone/iPad/ iPod Touch) will be launched this month with a retail price of $5.99 and 4,99 EUR respectively, but look out for special launch prices, with Cool New York selling for $.99 and Cool Berlin premiering for free.

There used to be a time in Costa Rica when vacation rentals were just a way to save money by families or friends traveling together, and packing in as many people as possible into a house. But not any more! In the last 8 years, there has been an explosion of high end, luxury villas in Costa Rica that not only equal what the big luxury resorts offer, but also add one additional amenity that they cannot provide – privacy.

Whether having a family vacation, a wedding ceremony on the beach with a few close family members and friends, or just three or four couples traveling together, a private villa rental just makes more sense. For instance, the dining area is just for your use, the swimming pool is just for you, the living room, and all outside patio areas are private to you and your guests.

One of the best examples of a luxury villa in Costa Rica is the Casa Oceano Beachfront Villa within the 125 acre Tango Mar Beach Resort and Private Nature Reserve. This truly “on the beach” villa has 6 bedrooms, 5 of them oceanfront with cantilevered balconies, one garden bedroom, 3 whirlpool tubs, and an oceanfront infinity pool that is just 11 steps down the stairs to the warm, tropical, sandy beach. Casa Oceano (and other deluxe villas of this type) has a staff of 4 that includes daily maid service, pool and grounds maintenance, a concierge available 24 hours a day and, if a meal plan is preferred, a full time chef. Amenities include a professionally appointed kitchen with a commercial gas range / oven, LCD televisions in the living room and bedrooms with premium satellite channels, iPod docking stations, high speed wifi, A/C, quality linens, pool toys for the kids, and even boogie boards for the more adventurous beach lovers. Nothing is overlooked. Just imagine yourself walking into your own private residence that you have prepared for your enjoyment and a staff to cater to your needs!

Of course, when you are out of the “house” category and into the world of “villas”, prices are reflected accordingly, and in some cases, you will pay as much or more than staying at a comparable resort hotel. As an example, the Casa Fantastica Villa in Manuel Antonio overlooks the famed Maneul Antoino Park area and Pacific Ocean. This newly constructed, 10,000 square foot villa has 8 luxurious bedrooms, 3 whirlpool tubs, a hotel size infinity pool, a game room, a gym, and a cinema with seating for 30 guests. Villas of this type, and Casa Oceano, can range from $10,000 in the low season to $13,500 in the high season, to $30,000 or more for the premium Christmas and New Year weeks. But the demand is there, not only for the luxury, but for the exclusive privacy.

Even the once sleepy fishing villages of Playas Mal Pais and Santa Teresa, in a remote area of the Nicoya Peninsula, have been discovered by celebrities who come to stay in the newly constructed luxury villas to get away from it all. The surfers who once camped out on those beaches fifteen or twenty years ago, have now returned as doctors, lawyers and business owners to rent the private, luxury bungalows on one of the best surfing beaches in Costa Rica. Lot owners seeing this phenomenon about 7 years ago decided to build deluxe villas to cater to larger groups. The Hollywood celebrity market immediately picked up on the opportunity to vacation in a remote and secluded area where their privacy would not be so easily invaded. Celebrities who have stayed here include model Gisele Bundchen, Leonardo DiCaprio and Mel Gibson, who is now just completing a mountaintop estate overlooking the beaches, complete with a helicopter landing pad. Murray Barnett, the owner of the first, and most popular website in that area, confides, “I have often been asked to sign a privacy agreement to insure that I would not reveal the names of visiting celebrities. In addition, one of the advantages of this more remote and undeveloped area is that most villas are situated on 1 to 3 acre beachfront parcels, which provide even more exclusivity to dignitaries and stars.”

Yes, for a single couple traveling alone, a luxurious suite or private deluxe bungalow is still probably the best option. But, for families and groups vacationing together, the luxury villa market is the one area of the Costa Rican tourism business that has remained steady, even in this economy, as luxury villa guests continue to value not only the outstanding accommodations, but also privacy.

Forrest Geiger is the Owner of 1 Costa Rica Link.

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