WILLIAMSBURG, VA –Kingsmill Resort, Virginia’s only AAA four-diamond resort in Williamsburg, VA is now offering 30 day or longer stays, complete with unlimited play on 36 holes of championship golf. Rooms are move-in-ready with fast and secure wi-fi, a desk, dining table, living room, full kitchen, washer, dryer and plenty of video meeting-worthy backdrops that are perfect for remote work or learning environments.
Housekeeping services are provided weekly, giving guests more time to spend enjoying the resort. Business services such as printing, notary, private conference rooms and shipping are also available.
Whether you are remote working or not, take in fresh air and a wide variety of on-site recreational activities from a full-service marina to tennis to newly renovated million dollar spa and several dining options.
Rates start at $3,000 a month.
All guest rooms, restaurants, public spaces and activities meet and even exceed the health and cleanliness standards and guidelines put forth by the CDC and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Kingsmill is also implementing the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s Safe Stay industry-wide initiative.
Kingsmill features:
• No elevators
• Each unit features outside entrances
• No hotel hallways or corridors
• Parking directly in front of the guest room
• A campus style layout with vast space between the various buildings
• Windows that open and private outdoor patios
• Pet friendly condos available
• Social distancing golf, tennis, pickle ball, walking and bike trails, marina with motorized and non-motorized water sports
• Indoor and outdoor pools
• Full service spa
• Dining delivery directly to rooms and outdoor seating overlooking the river, golf course or tennis complex
Located on the James River off I-64 between Richmond and Norfolk the property is within minutes from Williamsburg’s numerous destinations including Busch Gardens, Colonial Williamsburg, The College of William & Mary, Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center. To plan your trip to Kingsmill, visit www.kingsmill.com.
Set among the beautiful and culturally rich southern part of the island of Ambergris Caye in Belize, Alaia debuted as the first Marriott International Autograph Collection hotel in Belize.
AMBERGRIS CAYE, BELIZE– For those with a zeal to discover the outdoors and live with purpose, owner and developer Andrew Ashcroft, in partnership with Autograph Collection Hotels, announces the grand opening of boutique resort Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection. Spanning over 20+ acres and the first in San Pedro Town to sit on more than 1,000 feet of beachfront access, Alaia Belize is a 155-unit complex operating as the first true four diamond resort on Ambergris Caye. The eco-luxury development is the first-ever Marriott International property in the country and evokes the founder’s passion, thoughtfulness of design, inherent craft and connection with the locale.
“With deep family roots in Belize and the hidden gem being my home for over 20 years, I wanted to ensure that Alaia Belize captured the lively spirit, genuine hospitality and friendliness of the destination and locals. My team and I worked closely with the Marriott International team to bring it all to fruition and allow our future guests and owners an opportunity to immerse themselves into the Belizean culture,” said Andrew Ashcroft. “No detail went unnoticed as we wanted to ensure that our travelers will be able to experience a new level of luxury on one of the world’s most photogenic yet untapped destinations. We are now ready to show the world all that Alaia Belize has to offer and take the country to new heights.”
Eco-Luxury Aesthetics
Situated in the historic town of San Pedro – dubbed La Isla Bonita after the 1987 Madonna’s song about the island – Alaia Belize enables hotel guests and residential owners to intimately connect with their surroundings as it was designed to stimulate all five senses. With interiors curated by renowned Brazilian designer Debora Aguiar, the boutique resort is meant to invite guests to touch, stay and feel connected to Mother Nature, from the warm and harmonious ambiance, woven textures, natural fibers and touches of greenery. The design-forward hotel features 155 guest rooms and suites, ranging from studios to three bedrooms, with a natural color scheme to complement the stunning oceanfront views. Seamlessly blending the indoor and outdoor settings, the rooms offer an average of 1,200 square feet indoors and almost 900 square feet in open air, per unit.
On the residential end, Alaia Belize is comprised of 71 stylish studios, two- and three-bedroom condominiums and eight oceanfront villas. Owners who don’t live full-time in Belize can put their condominiums or villas into a rental program booked through Marriott International’s reservation system and allow guests to live with a backdrop of deep blue waters. With exterior designs led by International Environments, the branded development features vertical green walls, specialty textured walls and crystal-clear glass windows to not interrupt any views of the tranquil Caribbean Sea and wild tropical foliage.
Autograph Collection Hotels advocates for the original, championing the individuality of each of its 200+ independent hotels located in the most desirable destinations across more than 30 countries and territories. Each hotel is a product of passion and a personal realization of its individual founder’s vision, making each hotel singular and special: Exactly LikeNothing Else. Hand-selected for their inherent craft and distinct perspectives on design and hospitality, Autograph Collection hotels offer rich immersive moments that leave a lasting imprint.
First of its Kind Experiences
Raising the luxury bar in Belize, hotel guests and owners have full access to first-of-its-kind amenities in the country, including Belize’s first-ever suspended rooftop pool and lounge with 360-degree views, the only luxury resort in Belize with a dive shop that also allows guests to receive a PADI certification onsite, K’in Spa & Wellness Center, a piano bar with a self-playing baby grand piano, kids’ club, adventure concierge, swimming pools with live DJs, branded golf carts and bicycles, and a live art gallery with local weavers, woodworkers and pottery makers to create custom handicrafts for guests to take a piece of Belize home with them.
Catering to foodie travelers, Alaia Belize has endless dining and bar options with five different concepts. Sea Salt is the crown jewel of the property with fresh catches of the day, high-quality seafood and meat with a Belizean twist. For those looking to enjoy the tropical weather and gorgeous 360-degree views of the Caribbean Sea, Alaia has a Vista Rooftop restaurant concept with small plate offerings, such as sushi, poke bowls and conch for lunch, dinner and late nights. The beachfront hotel also has The Deck and Beach Bar restaurant for those looking for an open-air beachside lunch or dinner with local favorite dishes, such as tacos, ceviche, burgers, fish sandwiches, wraps, salads, pizza and classic cocktails. Alaia Belize also has a Piano Bar to offer an upscale lounge setting for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night with small pastries, cocktail snacks and high-end wine and cocktails offerings from Alaia’s very own mixologist. Lastly there is the The Terrace Bar for lunch and dinner with flavorful items, such as burgers, sandwiches, salads, ceviche and more. In true Belizean celebratory fashion, this area of the hotel has a lively spirit with DJs and in-pools cabanas for a VIP experience.
Un-Belize-Able Destination
“My team and I had a chance to visit with Andrew Ashcroft at the Alaia Belize earlier this year, while the property was still under construction. I am pleased that the day has finally come to open the doors of this beautiful four-diamond resort on the island of Ambergris Caye. It is a great milestone for the team and the country, as it is a testament of our growth to see high-end brands like Autograph Collection from Marriott International migrating into Belize, elevating our travel scene,” said Hon. Anthony Mahler, Belize’s Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations. “The government is fully supportive of hotel developments and legacy projects such as Alaia Belize, and we are incredibly proud of all the positive steps the Belize tourism industry is making to restore the confidence in travel among our international visitors.”
In October 2020, Belize officially reopened Philip Goldson International Airport to international visitors for leisure travel. As of January 2021, Belize moved on to Phase 4 of its reopening plan with the full reopening of the overnight tourism sector and allowing visitors to move around the country freely. In December 2020, Belize received a Safe Travel Stamp by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) in recognition of the country’s enhanced health and safety protocols. To uphold the certification, the Belize Tourism Board created the Tourism Gold Standard program to ensure that all hotels, restaurants and tour operators adapt and maintain health and safety policies, including sanitation practices, social interactions and standard operating procedures while ensuring minimal impact on the guest experience.
Known as the hidden gem of Central America and Caribbean, Belize’s clear blue waters and Caribbean culture is home to endless historic offerings, a variety of adventures and a melting pot of cultures. Just moments away from Alaia, owners and visitors can experience more than 200 caves filled with several preserved Mayan Temples, including Xunantunich (the second tallest ruin in the country), lush jungles, rainforest canopies, and archaeological sites including the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave. For those looking to take a deeper dive and explore the beauty of Belize’s natural underwater locations, Alaia is 600 meters away from the world’s second largest barrier reef and a few minutes away from the ultimate world-class and unrivaled destination – The Great Blue Hole.
Ambergris Caye and Alaia Belize can be reached via Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize City. Then, travelers have to take a short 10-minute flight to San Pedro Airport or book tickets for a water taxi. Alaia Belize’s hotel concierge is available to help all guests book travel arrangements. A location for every traveler and every generation, Alaia Belize is offering an Un-Belize-Able Offer with special rates on a Vista Studio King Room, starting at $299.
For more information about Alaia Belize and/or to book your reservation, visit www.alaiabelize.com. For information on Marriott International’s Autograph Collection Hotels, visit www.autographhotels.com.
Autograph Collection participates in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com.
Jade Mountain’s high-rise vistas of The Pitons are breathtaking.
Naming St. Lucia’s iconic Jade Mountain the number one “Best Hotel in the Caribbean”, U.S. News & World Report rhapsodized about the resort’s high-rise vistas of The Pitons, with architecture that draws on St. Lucia’s natural beauty, and referenced the varied list of island sports, including snorkeling in its sister resort, Anse Chastanet’s clear waters, sunset sailing on the resort yacht and scuba diving with experts from the on-site PADI dive center.
With its rankings based on analyses of industry awards, hotel star and user ratings, U.S. News & World Report praised the resort’s ambiance: “As the site of the finale of the 14th season of ‘The Bachelor’, Jade Mountain knows how to create a romantic atmosphere. Couples can arrange for an in-room massage with the Kai en Ciel Spa or a private dinner on the Celestial Terrace. For other meals, there’s the Jade Mountain Club helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Allen Susser.”
Turning to Jade Mountain’s sister resort, U.S. News & World Report reported that Anse Chastanet, spread across 600 tropical acres, is flanked by two sandy beaches. The resort’s 49 rooms are either perched on the verdant hillside or nestled beach level within a tropical garden.” The resort was rated number 49 in the world.
The media outlet reported recent guests loved the relaxing, natural setting and their access to a host of activities, from yoga to jungle biking, and scuba diving in a marine reserve offshore. “To round out this nature-inspired retreat, travelers have their pick of five dining options, including one inside a treehouse,” they noted.
Meanwhile, Islands magazine declared Jade Mountain winner of its Readers’ Choice in its list of the top luxury all-inclusive resorts of the world, while Big 7 Travel, the global travel site, listed the resort among the world’s “50 Most Romantic Hotels in the World.” Big 7’s Top 50 list positioned Jade Mountain as number six in the world.
Karolin Troubetzkoy, Executive Director of both properties, was delighted by the latest of many accolades bestowed on her two resorts: “It’s heartening to see how these media houses noted the complementality of the adjoining sister resorts because that is precisely the sort of harmony with nature and each other which my husband Nick Troubetzkoy (the owner/architect) was aiming for.”
Islands magazine wrote about Jade Mountain: “There’s nothing quite like it. Even though there are other resorts with a similar concept – a nonexistent fourth wall, so your room is open to the sea and sky – we can honestly say that Jade Mountain guarantees you a one-of-a-kind luxury experience.”
Noting its editors and writers scoured the globe to find the best all-inclusive resorts based on “standout offerings, from top-notch dining options and cool bars to over-the-top suites and white-glove butler service,” Islands magazine reported on the “mesmerizing” rooms, called sanctuaries, “designed in a stunning blend of wood and stone elements. They’re massive (1,400 to 2,000 square feet) and layered atop each other, each with its own equally large (450 to 900 square feet) infinity pool offering unobstructed views of St. Lucia’s twin Piton peaks and the sapphire-blue sea.”
Troubetzkoy credited resort staff for their commitment to the sustainable aspects of the sister resorts: “We could not have achieved such mixing of luxury and conservation without the priceless contributions of our dedicated staff and their deep knowledge of the area.”
With only 78 rooms in total between the two sister resorts, the company employs more than 550 team members, 97 percent of whom are from the surrounding communities.
Anse Chastanet is set amid a lush 600-acre estate with two soft-sand beaches and breathtaking views of St. Lucia’s twin Pitons mountains, the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Amidst St. Lucia’s lush tropical beauty, activities range from jungle biking, hiking and bird watching to snorkeling on the reef within swimming distance of the beach. The environmentally friendly, award-winning resort comprises 49 individually designed rooms, 37 of which are scattered about a lush hillside, and 12 that are nestled within a tropical garden at beach level. It offers innovative menus, one entirely vegetarian, in four different locations and features fresh produce served up from the resort’s organic farm. Guests can take in interactive chocolate-making classes in the resort’s chocolate laboratory and a variety of water sports are also on offer. For more information, visit www.ansechastanet.com.
Rising majestically above the 600-acre beachfront resort of Anse Chastanet, Jade Mountain Resort on St. Lucia’s south-western Caribbean coastline is a cornucopia of organic architecture celebrating St. Lucia’s stunning scenic beauty. Architect owner Nick Troubetzkoy has expanded upon his philosophy of building in harmony with Caribbean nature in his creation of Jade Mountain St. Lucia. The bold architectural design – individual bridges leading to exceptional infinity pool sanctuaries and rugged stoned-faced columns reaching towards the sky – makes Jade Mountain one of the Caribbean’s most mesmerizing resort experiences. For more information, visit www.jademountain.com.
Virtuoso’s affluent clientele will now have access to Luxury Retreats’ more than 4,000 private villas in hundreds of the world’s top destinations.
NEW YORK – Global luxury travel network Virtuoso® has entered into a strategic partnership with Luxury Retreats, a full-service villa rental company dedicated to creating authentic travel experiences. With an increased preference by upscale travelers for greater personalization and flexibility – as well as the more immersive experience that comes with villa stays – Virtuoso’s affluent clientele will now have access to Luxury Retreats’ more than 4,000 private villas in hundreds of the world’s top destinations. Luxury Retreats will also offer Virtuoso clients additional advantages, such as a generous travel credit, superior technology and the support of a global 400+ person team for an unmatched experience.
“Over the past year, we’ve seen demand for private villas reach new heights with a 40 percent year-over-year increase in bookings, leading us to seek out more products and services to feed this skyrocketing trend,” says Albert Herrera, senior vice president, Global Product Partnerships at Virtuoso. “People want to experience destinations as if they’re living like residents, and many times they want seclusion and privacy as well. Whether it’s a Parisian pied-à-terre, beachfront getaway in Malibu or private island in the Caribbean, Luxury Retreats’ portfolio keeps Virtuoso’s industry-leading Hotels & Resorts program at the forefront of traveler demand.”
Luxury Retreats extensively vets every villa in its portfolio, ensuring the highest level of quality accompanied by a best-rate guarantee. With homes in coveted destinations, including Hawaii, Tuscany and Mexico, along with urban retreats, they provide personal concierge services 24/7 to assist with details big and small. In recognition of Virtuoso’s leading position in the industry, Luxury Retreats will offer the network’s clients a generous concierge credit per rental.
“As the world’s leading luxury rental site, Luxury Retreats has the proven ability to match discerning travelers with authentic experiences, personalized service and incredible properties to create unforgettable vacations,” said Amr Younes, head of Business Development & Strategic Partnerships at Luxury Retreats. “In partnering with Virtuoso, we are able to further deliver on our mission of bringing luxury travel to an even larger, highly-discerning clientele.”
Virtuoso clients can now enjoy the best of both worlds when booking a Luxury Retreats property: access to some of the world’s most exclusive private homes coupled with the expert guidance and peace of mind that come when collaborating with and booking through a Virtuoso-affiliated travel advisor. Furthermore, given the boom in multigenerational travel – the top trend of the year according to Virtuoso’s 2019 Luxe Report – demand for Luxury Retreats’ extensive worldwide roster of fashionable homes will continue to increase given their ability to cater to the preferences of each family member.
Virtuoso® is a leading international travel agency network specializing in luxury and experiential travel. This by-invitation-only organization comprises over 1,000 travel agency partners with 17,500 elite travel advisors in 50 countries throughout North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. Drawing upon its preferred relationships with 1,700 of the world’s best hotels and resorts, cruise lines, airlines, tour companies and premier destinations, the network provides its upscale clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access. More than $23.7 billion in annual travel sales makes Virtuoso a powerhouse in the luxury travel industry. For more information, visit www.virtuoso.com.
Luxury Retreats is one the world’s leading villa vacation rental companies, offering over 4,000 homes and villas in the most sought after destinations across the globe. A global team of passionate travel experts and partners hand-pick and inspect each property, ensuring that guests are offered only the very best on the market. Luxury Retreats provides 24/7 concierge service to customize each getaway, as well as dedicated villa specialists to help guests find the perfect villa – all without charging membership fees. In 2017, Airbnb acquired Luxury Retreats to help further its mission to provide a variety of homes and experiences for every type of traveler. For more information, visit www.LuxuryRetreats.comwww.LuxuryRetreats.com.
MIAMI – Regent Seven Seas Cruises, the only North American luxury cruise line to be granted permission to offer voyages to Cuba, is adding more visits to the Caribbean island on two itineraries in 2019 and 2020. Seven Seas Mariner will offer the line’s first immersive Cuba itinerary on her October 15, 2019 voyage, calling on Havana, Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba, providing guests more opportunities to engage in group, people-to-people activities intended to enhance contact with the Cuban people, and to immerse in the island’s culture. Havana is also being added into Seven Seas Navigator’s April 25, 2020 voyage.
“We are proud to have been the first North American luxury line to call on Cuba and are delighted to offer more opportunities for travelers to visit such a historic and culture-rich destination,” said Jason Montague, president and chief executive officer of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “On these eight future sailings that visit Cuba, guests will be treated to informative presentations from experts and scholars, as well as enjoy our distinctive, highly personalized service from every member of our exceptional staff and crew.”
As part of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ most-inclusive luxury experience, guests have the widest selection of free and unlimited, expertly crafted Cuba shore excursions in compliance with the Office of Foreign Assets Control’s (OFAC) regulations. Guests can meet with the people of Cuba and explore the island’s music, art, history and culture while enjoying as many shore excursions as their time allows.
In Havana, guests can walk in the storied steps of Ernest Hemingway and learn about the city’s Baroque, neoclassical and Renaissance architecture. From Cienfuegos, guests can visit Valle de los Ingenios (Valley of the Sugar Mills) and Trinidad, both deemed World Heritage sites for their well-preserved, Colonial-era architecture, and learn about traditional pottery methods at a family-owned workshop along the way. Santiago de Cuba will offer even greater context to events that changed the course of Cuban history, where guests can visit San Juan Hill and learn about the 18th century battle which led to the end of Spanish rule.
Seven Seas Mariner made Regent’s maiden call on Havana in April 2017. Travelers can choose among eight future itineraries that offer guests an opportunity to visit Cuba. Seven Seas Mariner’s October 10, 2018 voyage, will call again on Havana on its trans-Panama Canal voyage to the South Pacific, while the ship’s new October 15, 2019 voyage will offer three Cuban ports. Caribbean itineraries that also visit Havana are Seven Seas Navigator’s November 11, 2018 and April 25, 2020 voyages; and Seven Seas Voyager’s December 6 and 16, 2018, February 6, and March 5, 2019 voyages.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers one the world’s most inclusive luxury experiences with a four-ship fleet that visits more than 450 destinations around the world. Seven Seas Mariner’s upcoming 2018 drydock refurbishment will conclude Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ $125 million refurbishment program to elevate the elegance of the whole fleet to the standard set by Seven Seas Explorer. In early 2020, Regent will launch Seven Seas Splendor. The cruise line’s fares include all-suite accommodations, round-trip business-class air on intercontinental flights from U.S. and Canada, the largest collection of free, unlimited shore excursions, unlimited internet access, highly personalized service, exquisite cuisine, fine wines and spirits, prepaid gratuities, ground transfers and one-night, pre-cruise hotel package for guests staying in Concierge-level suites and higher.
For more information about the world’s most inclusive luxury experience, or to make a reservation, contact a professional travel agent, visit www.RSSC.com, or call 1-844-4REGENT (1-844-473-4368).
Finest Playa Mujeres, an all-inclusive, luxury resort nestled among white sand beaches and crystal blue waters of picturesque Playa Mujeres, Cancun, Mexico, has just opened, accommodating romantic getaways and nuptial celebrations, rejuvenating holidays, and family fun.
The resort offers every possible amenity and luxury one could dream of at an all-inclusive luxury resort: elegant and modern suites provide oversized Jacuzzis, swim-up rooms, private pools, decks with breathtaking views, rooftop terraces, and family-designed suites; a world-class spa with hydrotherapy circuit, 10 swimming pools complete with a children’s pool and baby wading pool, and playground and pavilion for children and teens, nine international gourmet restaurants and 17 bars.
Private club settings in the Excellence Club for adults-only relaxation; and the Finest Club for all ages, which offers additional amenities and services provide further exclusivity and more customized activity.
Finest Playa Mujeres and Finest Resorts are operated by Excellence Group Luxury Hotels & Resorts, a family owned and operated resort group specializing in hotel management and worldwide real estate development, with a primary geographic presence in the Caribbean. The group, a joint investment between Medieval Times and ETI (Explotacions Turistiques de les Illes), owns and manages five star award winning resort properties in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Riviera Maya, and Cancun, Mexico.
In 2014, Excellence Group properties won the Conde Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Award, the Travel & Leisure World’s Best Award and Trip Advisor Traveler’s Choice Award.
Villas of Distinction offers stays in a luxurious, private villa, with vacation experiences planned by a concierge.
Wilmington, Mass.– Villas of Distinction®, a full-service premier luxury villa provider with an extensive portfolio, is revealing the reasons why staying in a private, luxurious villa can ignite romance and make memorable vacation experiences.
Unlike online vacation rental companies, Villas of Distinction® provides a full-service, top-of-the-line experience, and in addition to reserving a premier luxury villa, clients have an entire experiential vacation planned by a private Villa Concierge from start to finish.
The company, which is part of World Travel Holdings, offers five reasons why a villa stay can rekindle the romance:
Stress-Free Planning. Whether traveling for a honeymoon, couples getaway, an anniversary celebration or just to reconnect, Villas of Distinction provides clients with their own personal villa concierge that plans every aspect of a vacation from the time you leave your house to the time you return. The Concierge can recommend some of the most romantic spots in a destination; make reservations for a candlelight dinner; or arrange a couple’s excursion like a wine-tasting or a guided morning yoga/meditation session on the beach.
Not Just A Stay, But An Experience. When you book your romantic retreat with a Villa Specialist, you are not only booking the villa, but you are planning an entire, unique and customized vacation. Want a favorite wine or food upon arrival? It will be pre-stocked in the villa. What about rose petals on the bed and candles throughout. A Villa Concierge can make it happen. Couples massages by the pool or on the beach, a private chef, fireworks on the beach, a private yacht charter for dinner and champagne — these are just some of the unique experiences a concierge can make happen.
Private Pool. Rekindling the romance means enjoying quality time together … alone. Privacy is something that is not offered at a resort pool with other guests crowding you. Villas offer privacy for alone time including private pools and most villas even have private beaches.
Chef-Prepared Candlelit Dinner. A dinner by candlelight is the ultimate in romance, but a dinner by candlelight with a meal made by a couples’ own private chef to their liking is even more romantic. How about the morning of the romantic dinner, accompanying the Chef to the water’s edge, where the local fisherman arrives in the morning, with his evening’s just-caught fresh fish and having that prepared for dinner? Or, picking fresh fare from the villa’s gardens and using the herbs in cooking class together to learn how to make local dishes — how romantic does that sound?
Quality Time To Reconnect. Being in a beautiful, luxurious and private locale is the perfect setting to reconnect with one another — this is the cornerstone of what a villa vacation offers. From a private pool or beach and couples massages to an excursion or cooking class together and enjoying the breathtaking views villa destinations provide, couples will find a villa vacation that can be customized to fit their relationship personality and vacation desires.
To learn more about the destinations and villa options Villas of Distinction offers, and how a Villa Concierge can help plan a one-of-a-kind vacation filled with romance, visit www.VilllasofDistinction.com or call 800-289-0900.
Villas of Distinction®, as part of World Travel Holdings, is a full-service premier luxury villa provider with an extensive portfolio of thousands of privately-owned villas in more than 50 luxury destinations including the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Costa Rica, Belize, Italy, France, Greece, Spain, Thailand, Croatia, the Continental United States and many private Islands. For nearly 25 years, Villas of Distinction and its team of expert concierges have been helping travelers find their perfect vacation home without a membership fee. The company takes pride in offering customized vacations to meet every need, with most villas featuring private pools, butlers, maids and chefs. www.VillasofDistinction.com.
NEW YORK – Virtuoso®, an international network of luxury travel agencies, has unveiled its 2015 Virtuoso Luxe Report, the results of which are based on an annual survey of its professional travel advisors. Recognized throughout the industry as an authoritative trend-predictor, the report forecasts luxury travel trends and favored destinations while offering insight into the patterns and decisions of the world’s most affluent travelers.
For the first time in five years, river cruising trumped multigenerational travel as the number one trend and Croatia secured the top spot in the “Emerging Destinations” category (the country didn’t make the “top 10” in 2014). Iceland is on the rise while Cuba, Myanmar, and Bhutan continue to be favored emerging destinations. “Adventure travel” surfaced as a dominant trend for 2015 with Costa Rica and South Africa sweeping the top two spots, respectively, proving travelers are less interested in sitting still.
The love affair with Italy continues as it reigned supreme for the “Top International Destination” as well as the favorite country for family travel and honeymoons. France, Mexico, South Africa, and Australia follow as top international locales, respectively.
Within the U.S., New York City maintained its top spot, followed by Maui, Napa Valley/Sonoma, and Las Vegas. Miami/South Beach climbed three places to reach the “top 5,” bumping Hawaii’s Big Island to ninth place.
Honeymooners showed they are seeking romance at tried and true favorites, as well as some more exotic locales. The most popular honeymoon destinations included Italy, Maui, French Polynesia, France, and the Maldives.
Exploring new destinations, seeking authentic experiences, rest and relaxation, and spending time or reconnecting with loved ones prove to be the key motivators behind high-end travel.
Key findings from the 2015 Virtuoso Luxe Report:
Top Travel Trends
River cruising
Multigenerational travel
Active or adventure trips
Celebration travel
Family travel (immediate)
Top Domestic Destinations
New York, NY
Maui, HI
Napa Valley/Sonoma, CA
Las Vegas, NV
Miami/South Beach, FL
Top International Destinations
Italy
France
Mexico
South Africa
Australia
Top Family Travel Destinations
Italy
Orlando, FL
Mexico
Hawaii
England
Top Adventure Destinations
Costa Rica
South Africa
Galapagos Islands
New Zealand
Peru
Top Honeymoon Destinations
Italy
Maui, HI
French Polynesia
France
Maldives
A record total of 599 travel advisors from Virtuoso member agencies in 25 countries throughout North America, Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia-Pacific and Europe participated in the survey.
Virtuoso®is a leading network of luxury travel advisors and entities. This by-invitation-only organization comprises 355 agencies with more than 8,900 travel specialists in 25 countries throughout North America, Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia-Pacific and Europe, as well as over 1,700 travel providers and destinations. The network’s member agencies generate over $14 billion annually in travel sales, making the group one of the largest in the luxury travel segment. Their relationships with the travel companies provide the network’s affluent clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access. For more information, visit http://www.virtuoso.com. To view Virtuoso’s latest videos, go to http://www.youtube.com/user/VirtuosoTraveler.
Crystal Cruises has two ships in CruiseCompete’s list of Top 10 Ultra-Luxury ships.
SeaDream I tops the Top 10 List for ultra-luxury cruise vacations, according to CruiseCompete, which analyzed reviews from thousands of cruise travelers, who provide insight into cruise lines, ships, amenities, service, dining and the destinations visited.
CruiseCompete has tabulated the ratings given to ultra-luxury cruise ship category:
One of the most significant aspects of the ultra-luxury lines is the amenities included in their cruise packages. These ships are designed to feel like floating country clubs or boutique hotels; one where a passenger’s every whim is indulged and there’s no need to keep a wallet handy for extra expenses.
To see what’s included on the Ultra-Luxury lines, click here.
To learn more about the luxury lines, or to book and Ultra-Luxury Cruise, visit www.CrusieCompete.com.
TerraVelo Tours organizes an all-inclusive luxury camping escape with bicycling, horseback riding, massages and other amenities.
This year, give your family the gift of your time and a shared experience to remember – a luxury camping (aka “glamping”) and cycling tour of the spectacular landscapes of Utah or Wyoming National Parks, or California’s vineyards and redwoods with TerraVelo Tours.
TerraVelo Tours offers fully-inclusive luxury mobile tent camping travel for both avid and casual cyclists – providing an unforgettable journey for both skill sets – TerraVelo has even created an elegant way to present your gift: a TerraVelo tote bag, complete with a custom-designed voucher and your choice of a selection of bath amenities from historic C.O. Bigelow & Apotheke Co. or a TomTom MultiSport GPS watch.
The voucher can be redeemed for 2015 itineraries:
Utah Arches, Canyons and Hoodoos through Arches, Zion, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Bryce National Parks brings guests through some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in the nation. Departures are April 12-19; May 3-9 and 10-16; September 20-26; and October 4-10.
Wyoming Mountains, Geysers and Bison tours include stops at Grand Teton National Park , Jackson, Yellowstone National Park including Old Faithful, Norris Geyser Basin, the Hot Springs Loop, the unique landscape of Mammoth Hot Springs and the Lamar River Valley. Tours depart June 28-July 4; July 19-25 (Family Tour); and July 26-August 1.
The California Oceans, Vineyards and Redwoods tours encompass stops at Point Reyes National Seashore, Santa Rosa, Sonoma, Napa, Armstrong National Redwoods Preserve, Salt Point State Park, and sunrise yoga followed by a cycle through the Avenue of the (Redwood) Giants. Departures are May 24-30 (Family Tour); June 14-20; August 9-15; August 16-22; and August 30-September 5.
“TerraVelo Tours combines moveable luxury camping with an exhilarating cycling itinerary, suitable for cyclists of all levels,” states David Levine, co-founder of the luxury cycling tour company. “Our bicycle tours bring together a maximum of 15 guests for intimate dinners, amazing food and enlightening conversation, complemented by luxurious camping and amenities. Our guests are cared for by 10-12 staff members, the highest ratio among bicycle tours.”
“Excursions, a masseuse, even the toothpaste are included in the experience,” adds Rebecca Martin, Levine’s partner and co-founder. “A private chef and sous chef will accompany us, preparing all our meals and snacks during each seven-day adventure. Our accommodations every night will be in luxurious, elegant tents, adding to the beauty of the scenery while providing supremely comfortable shelter. This is unheard of in our cycling world!”
Guests will be outfitted with a carbon fiber specialized Roubaix Expert Ultegra or similar high-end road bike and helmet; those preferring to ride their own bike can simply bring it to their local bike shop where TerraVelo will have it shipped, delivered and assembled, ready to ride when the guest arrives, and shipped back to the bike shop upon departure.
Each of the luxury tents simulates an upscale hotel guestroom, outfitted with plush memory-foam mattress; Frette linens; down comforters; rugs; furnishings from ABC Home & Carpet and Mitchell Gold +Bob Williams; Turkish bath towels; and C.O. Bigelow & Apotheke Co. toiletries and sundries.
Each night’s Camp will include: a full-time personal chef and sous chef who will prepare all meals served in the elegant dining tent. Several times during the tour guests can enjoy sunrise yoga; evening entertainment including live music and campfire; a masseuse who will provide 30-minute massages; educational sessions from a visiting expert, perhaps an astronomer and/or geologist who will share insights on the gorgeous night sky, landscape and vegetation. Laundry service is provided twice during each tour.
A Lounge tent with a sofa, club chairs, board games including chess, backgammon, playing cards; books and a fully-stocked bar; shower and restroom facilities complete the mobile accommodations.
Family-Friendly Tours Attract All Generations
For 2015, TerraVelo Tours will host dedicated Family Tour weeks in Wyoming and in California, welcoming children as young as 8.
“As the mother of two active children, I know what a joy it will be for parents – and grandparents – to watch their children explore the splendor of our national parks,” said Martin. “We will tailor activities to suit them, to assure a memorable experience for all ages.”
The 7-day tour packages include all food, beverage and accommodations, and are priced at $5,990 per person, double occupancy, with guests’ choice of one Queen bed or two singles.
Children’s rates are $4,990 with single bed accommodations in parents’ tents; youngsters 16 and over pay the adult rate.
GoingPlacesNearAndFar's Blog 