San Diego: A Quick Weekend Getaway

Rancho Bernardo Hotel

Sometimes it's easier than you think it is to spoil yourself. The only good thing about the economy still being in shambles is that 4 and 5 star properties are cutting deals for those in need of a quick escape from the stresses of the city. From July 31 through September 13, The Rancho Bernardo Inn is inviting guests to head to sunny Southern California to experience an ultimate getaway for one all-inclusive price. The new “Spoil Me” package combines all of the property’s amenities—deluxe accommodations, exquisite dining, fabulous wine, championship golf, and luxurious spa treatments—providing a no surprises getaway in a warm, relaxing setting.
Starting at $289 per person, guests can relax, unwind and be pampered during their stay. With all amenities and resort fees included in the package price, The “Spoil Me” package features:

• Overnight stay in deluxe accommodations
• All meals, including the option of dinner at El Bizcocho
• All honor bar beverages and wine amenity
• Unlimited rounds of golf
• One signature spa treatment per person per day
• Tickets to local area attractions
• All resort and parking fees
• On property recreational facilities

Rancho Bernardo Inn, a member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, is not only a Mobil Four Star property for 18 years, but it also has a AAA Four Diamond rating. The Inn is conveniently located within 25 minutes of most of San Diego’s main attractions including the Wild Animal Park, Lego Land, Sea World, San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and the Pacific Ocean. Rancho Bernardo Inn is owned by JC Resorts, whose other properties include Surf & Sand Resort, Temecula Creek Inn, and JC Golf.

www.ranchobernardoinn.com

Tel: 800.770.7329

Caribbean Escapes: Discounted Flights, Over-Water Spas, & Chic Yoga Retreats

This hot off the press from an independent island hopper who reps some hidden gems in the Caribbean.
Kamalame Cay, Bahamas - Outer Islands

BAHAMAS & JAMAICA
In celebration of its 10-year anniversary, Kamalame Cay, a 96-acre private island resort in the Bahamas, invites guests to FLY FOR FREE* THROUGH DECEMBER 14 and is also offering 20% OFF ALL SPA TREATMENTS for any Girls World* bookings. With the addition of new General Manager Peter Bauer, a new Spa Director, an onsite wedding planner, a new solar power system – and a new sister property in Jamaica – there are so many reasons this year is better than ever to seek out sunny serenity at two of the most authentic hideaways in the Caribbean. Perched on the edge of the ‘Tongue of the Ocean’ in The Bahamas, Kamalame Cay is a private island hideaway unlike any other. The secluded beachfront cottages combined with the three miles of white sand shores that run the length of the island are just what the body and soul need to re-center, relax and rejuvenate.
Kamalame Cay Private Island Resort Room

The new 'Best of Both Worlds' package encourages guests to extend their barefoot Bahamian getaway to Jamaica’s lesser known northeast coast – and the Hew family’s (who own Kamalame) – personal getaway. Using either Air Jamaica’s direct Nassau to Kingston service or flying private to maximize precious holiday minutes, the package includes three nights at Kamalame with choice of full day fishing or equivalent spa credit, 3 nights at Kanopi House, a VIP river rafting trip with quintessential Jamaican barbecue and another full or half-day excursion to one of the countless nearby waterfall wonderlands. Kamalame is also bringing back its ‘New Year, New You’ workshops in January at no extra charge. With (optional) daily yoga and motivational life coaching sessions with renowned Handel Group Life Coach Jo Sawalha to inspire and reinforce the “to thine own self be true” philosophy and encourage participants to exercise the power of body and mind to achieve the life of their dreams. The Kamalame Spa is also located over the turquoise waters of the lagoon and its five treatment rooms face out onto the surrounding sea with floor-to-ceiling windows that fully collapse. Hello?!?

Diving, snorkelling, tennis, sea kayaking into mangroves, as well as deep sea and bone fishing are all available right on property. So dine on the conch fritters at Hank's Place (242/368-2447; www.hanks-place.com) on the water at Fresh Creek and tell Kamalame we sent you.

Kanopi House, in Jamaica, is a low-impact resort featuring a relaxed club house and four individual eco-chic tree houses in a luscious rainforest with commanding views over Port Antonio, often referred to as the Jamaican Riviera. A stone’s throw from the world famous Blue Lagoon, all meals and activities are catered to individual tastes.


www.kamalame.com
www.kanopihouse.com

Rates for six nights as above including inter-island air start at $2500pp based on double occupancy.

Visit: www.kamalame.com/news/The_Kamalame_Summer09.html for complete details.

Reservations for both properties (and the Best of Both Worlds) can be made by calling +1.800.790.7971 and mentioning this deal and where you heard about it. Meanwhile, Jet Blue launches service from JFK to Saint Lucia (UVF) October 26 and to Kingston, Jamaica on October 30th making this offer even more tempting.

Palm Springs: The New, Super Hip Ace Hotel

The Ace Hotel & Swim Club

Everyone in LA knows the edgy, musically-inspired Rudy's, the popular salon for men and women on Melrose. My husband gets his wild mop trimmed there. Well, the owners of Rudy's have branched out and we like what we see. Built on the foundation of a 1965 Westward Ho Hotel, their newly-opened (and super hip) Ace Hotel in Palm Springs maintains both functionality and simplicity without sacrificing aesthetic. Perfect for couples getaways, bachelor or bachelorette parties, and just that much needed, get me the hell outta LA weekend trip. The hotel's laid-back atmosphere embraces a natural and organic design with interiors designed by L.A.-based visual design team Commune. Transporting guests to an indulgent camping experience with an eclectic assortment of local artists and designers contributing their talents to the hotel, community is a central theme with shared outdoor areas like communal fireplaces and patios that invite guests to come together.

The hotel features offbeat details like tamale carts and a sno-cone bar, poolside massages in a Mongolian Yurt (there are also indoor treatment rooms), and two saline pools. The restaurant Kings Highway redefines roadside diner fare, focusing on fresh, organic and local ingredients, while the original old rand-hand bar, the Amigo Room, has been restored to its high/low glory. An old ice cream truck - the Short Bus - also serves as poolside bar.

www.acehotel.com/palmsprings

$129-999

Maui, Hawaii: The Best Luxury Lover's Getaway

Our Editor-in-Chief calls Maui home so, when it comes to finding new deals and secret retreats, it's a bit of a challenge. She knows almost every place already. However, in all her years of traveling to and from the island, this winter, she and her husband were surprised to uncover a beauty among the beaches. The Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, nestled right next to the Shops at Wailea, is just a few hundred feet from well-known properties like The Four Seasons and The Grand Wailea, but offers something you won't find at more popular locations... no screaming kids! That's why we've voted it the 'Best Luxury Lover's Getaway on Maui.' Not to mention the fact that it's slightly less expensive than her neighbors.

With an onsite restaurant, Mala Wailea, from world-renowned chef/owner Mark Ellman, it also has one of the best Kobe burgers in town. The resort offers 546 guest rooms and suites with amenities like high-speed Internet, a 27-inch flat screen TV, cable TV, video games, a private lanai (balcony), the Mandara Spa with holistic treatments from the Far East, five swimming pools, including the new Maluhia Serenity Pool with six exclusive over-the-water cabanas reminiscent of over-water bungalows in Bora Bora, and nearby golf, tennis and Shops at Wailea. The rooms, pictured here, were all recently revamped and look more like a sophisticated W Hotel than the usual (and somewhat dated) luxury hotels nearby.
Though it's not as beach front as the other properties nearby, you will save a few hundred bucks a night and you're closer to the Shops at Wailea. The beach is also just a two-minute walk down a paved oceanfront path. Plus, no other property nearby has anything like their over-the-water cabanas and infinity pool. This is property for adults... and celebs who don't want other guests constantly gawking. To wit, when our EIC stayed here, Lindsay Lohan was taking some much needed down time. So, though we may be young at heart, we really like our quiet sexy time.

From $525-$3,250/night

www.waileamarriott.com
Tel: 1-808-879-1922

Mediterranean, Crystal Serenity: Cruising With Nobu

Nobu, we love you. As Dena DiOrio says, "What do sushi, elephants, a great value, and donkeys have in common?" That would be Master Chef Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa, our favorite Democrat debate champ, James Carville, and Republican politico, Mary Matalin. Every now and again, we love jaunting around on a cruise ship and calling into port. We'll admit, some cruise lines are for fanny-pack wearing fogies, but this is one luxury cruise experience worth sailing, perfect for sophisticated, politically-savvy, food loving, honeymooners.
Nobu is proud to announce that he's joining Crystal Serenity’s July 28 Mediterranean cruise “Byzantine Accolades,” exclusively creating menus for Crystal Cruises guests. Personally preparing seven Omakase (chef’s choice) dinners at Silk Road, the shipboard restaurant that has featured his cuisine since 2003, these Omakase dinners are completely free to guests (onshore, they have a value of over $90 per person at Nobu’s 25 restaurants worldwide)! Additionally, the famed restaurateur will be signing cookbooks and giving onboard cooking demonstrations.

A great excuse to properly learn how to stir it in style, both in the kitchen (and the stateroom), we think it's an ideal and romantic cruise for honeymooners and couples.

Spicing it up even more, and we’re not just talking togarashi, one of Washington’s most popular political couples, James Carville and Mary Matalin, will also be onboard for a special debate discussing the topics of the day. Because really, what's a proper Jaunt without good food, an exotic atmosphere, and a lively political debate?

The 12-day “Byzantine Accolades” itinerary visits Venice, San Marino, Corfu, Rhodes, Bodrum, Istanbul, Mykonos, and Athens.

Cruise fares for this sailing start at $6,055 per person, double occupancy, not including port, security, and handling charges of $405 per person. The per diem breaks down to about $538.50/person/night.

To view the itinerary, onboard programming, and Crystal Adventures excursions:

www.crystalcruises.com/cruise_itinerary.aspx?CID=9316

See you in Turkey, turkeys!

www.crystalcruises.com

Honeymooning in the Maldives: Luxury Over Water Villas

The first "Floating Resort" in the Indian Ocean... does it get any better than this? The perfect exotic escape for honeymooners and discerning families alike, check out The Banyan Tree's 'Angsana Velavaru' located in the pristine South Nilandhe Atoll in the Maldives, known as ‘Turtle Island’ in the local Dhivehi language. We're excited to be one of the first to announce that they're launching their first standalone collection of water villas in July 2009! Feted for its turquoise lagoon, spacious pool villas, and one of the few resorts in the secluded southern reaches of the Maldives, it's a scenic 40-minute seaplane (yes, seaplane!) journey from Malé island. The 34 uber-luxurious InOcean Villas are located just a half a mile from the island of Velavaru where the resort’s original 79 villas are located and range from 1,885 square feet to 3,122 square feet. We love that the sliding glass doors along the living, sleeping, and bathing areas offer an absolutely unobstructed panoramic view of the Indian Ocean. Each swanky two-story villa is also reminiscent of a stylish loft with contemporary design accents. We think you ought to relax on an airy outdoor deck with a hammock suspended over the sparkling azure waters and swim in a 200 square-foot infinity pool. Like this...
The Premier InOcean Villas and two-bedroom Sanctuary InOcean Villas each have extended decks into the ocean, complete with a cozy pavilion for lounging or yoga practice (since we know how much you all love your yoga). Modern amenities include a flat screen TV, stereo system with iPod docking station, and wireless internet. Hell, it's hard enough to find a reliable wireless connection on the mainland!

In addition, Azzurro, the resort’s new gourmet Italian restaurant and bar, has been added toward one end of the InOcean Villa cluster and guests can enjoy complete access to the facilities at the main resort on Velavaru Island like dining at Funa and Kaani restaurants, cocktails at Kuredhi Bar, culinary classes, Angsana Spa treatments, diving, guided snorkeling safari, wakeboarding, and, our favorite eco-resort feature... a dedicated Marine Lab which organizes hands-on activities for environmentally-minded travelers like coral planting, reef cleaning and marine biology classes.

Angsana, managed by The Banyan Tree, truly caters to the modern traveler seeking style, luxury, and eco-awareness. Comprising of contemporary chic retreats, each property is designed to deliver vibrant experiences which also exude the spirit and conscience of its environment. A stylish eco-resort in the Maldives with one of the only Marine Research Labs in the world onsite... along with a hammock suspended in the ocean? Does honeymooning (or canoodling) get any more high-end and feel-good than this?

$750 per night, per villa.

www.angsana.com
1(800) 591-0439
Email: reservations-velavaru@angsana.com.

San Francisco: InterContinental Hotel's Hot Deal "The First Anniversary Package"

InterContinental San Francisco Guest Room

Since we love luxury, particuarly when it's on a budget, we had to fill you in on this sweet deal good until... the end of the year! As a tribute to the InterContinental San Francisco's First Anniversary, InterContinental San Francisco is offering their First Anniversary Package, an amazingly low nightly rate of just $88.80 per person, 2 person minimum.

The package includes a lavish Buffet Breakfast for 2; cocktails in Bar 888 for 2; overnight valet parking (a $50 value); an I-Spa gift bag and a $50.00 gift card for use in the I-Spa.

For Reservations: Call 415.616.6500 and make sure you mention 'The First Anniversary Package.'

A Moveable Feast: Silversea's Luxurious Food & Wine Cruise

Here at Jaunt we think one of two ways. 'Only the best' or 'Only the most authentic.' When we find something that marries the two together (and involves five-star culinary fare), we get hungry to share with the masses. Yes, Silversea is the best cruise line in the world and we say, "If it's good enough for Isabella Rossellini, it's good enough for the jauntiest of the jaunty." Voted "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure, Silversea is offering a foodie lover's wetdream (get it?), a collection of the world's most flavorful destinations expertly paired with the culinary world's hottest talents.
These moveable feasts are perfect for sophisticated travelers who enjoy high-end dining as much as the adventure of luxury travel. In case you've never hit the high seas aboard their ultra-luxury liners, Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities in an intimate setting. The best part? All-suite vessels! The Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, and recently launched in December, the Silver Spirit. With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.
Silver Shadow Room

The enlightening café lifestyle of Paris in the 1920s (immortalized in A Moveable Feast) stayed with American writer Ernest Hemingway throughout his life … wherever he traveled … and for Silversea guests, this year's 11 Culinary Arts voyages promise similar opportunities for personally enriching experiences that will linger after the journey ends. These unique culinary theme cruises showcase the artistry of award-winning chefs of top dining establishments from around the world, including the internationally acclaimed chefs of Relais & Châteaux, the exclusive collection of 480of the finest hotels and gourmet restaurants in 56 countries.
Dining on the Silver Whisper

Established in France in 1954, the family of hoteliers and Grands Chefs from all over the world share a passion for exceptional quality. From the vineyards in Napa valley to the beaches in Bali, from the olive trees in Provence to the lodges in South Africa, Relais & Châteaux offers a chance to explore the Route du Bonheur and discover a special place in a variety of destinations.
On the culinary sailings, celebrity chefs will display their talents during dynamic and informative cooking demonstrations where guests can taste and learn firsthand the secrets of enticing signature dishes. Chefs include the likes of Rick Tramonto, partner and executive chef of Chicago’s Tru, a Mobil Four Star and AAA Five Diamond restaurant; Eyvind Hellstrøm, owner and chef of Michelin Two Star Bagatelle in Oslo; and Anne Desjardins, the chef/co-owner of CAA Four Diamond L'Eau à La Bouche in Ste-Adèle, Québec. The Culinary Arts enrichment voyages also feature escorted provisioning trips to international markets, food and wine pairings, creative regional dishes, and a five-course grand gourmet dinner. Throughout these special voyages, the featured guest chef and Silversea’s executive chef are on hand to share their culinary expertise and answer any questions.

Below, with the handy help of Silversea's excellent staff, we've put together a list of the Culinary Arts voyages around the world.

Now hit the high seas and relish the good (foodie) life!

ALASKA & PACIFIC COAST

Voyage 3912: Silver Shadow, May 28 - June 7, Seward to Vancouver, 10 days. Early Booking Incentive fares start at $7,050. Jonathan Lindenauer -- Bon Appétit magazine's chef de cuisine will be in residence to bring the Bon Appétit Supper Club to life and offer guests a taste of his signature recipes. This avant-garde concept of a stylish, limited-time dining experience will transform La Terrazza into a New York-inspired restaurant.

Voyage 3917: Silver Shadow, July 20 - August 1, San Francisco (roundtrip), 12 days. Silver Sailing fares start at $4,747. Gregory Short -- Executive chef of Masas, San Francisco.

CARIBBEAN

Voyage 1926: Silver Cloud, October 19 - 29, New York to Barbados, 10 days. Silver Sailing fares start at $3,397. Relais & Châteaux Grand Chef Anne Desjardins -- Co-owner of L'Eau à La Bouche Ste-Adèle, Québec, Canada.

Voyage 3929: Silver Shadow, November 13 - 22, Barbados to Fort Lauderdale, 9 days. Silver Sailing fares start at $3,047. Relais & Châteaux Chef Stéphane Mazières -- Executive chef of Le Gaïac restaurant at Hôtel Le Toiny, St. Bart's.

FAR EAST & SOUTH PACIFIC

Voyage 3909: Silver Shadow, April 11 - 29, Sydney to Singapore, 18 days. Silver Sailing fares start at $10,496. Relais & Châteaux Chef Mathew Macartney -- Executive chef of Chateau Yering, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

MEDITERRANEAN

Voyage 2915: Silver Wind, May 14 - 21, Barcelona to Nice, 7 days. Silver Sailing fares start at $3,197. Relais & Châteaux Grand Chef Rick Tramonto -- Executive chef/partner of Tru, Chicago.

Voyage 2922: Silver Wind, July 18 - 28, Monte Carlo (roundtrip), 10 days. Silver Sailing fares start at $6,177. Relais & Châteaux Chef Vincent Nattress -- Executive chef of Meadowood Resort, St. Helena, California.

Voyage 4931: Silver Whisper, October 3 - 10, Venice to Rome, 7 days. Silver Sailing fares start at $4,616. Lidia Bastianich -- Author, TV chef and co-owner of Felidia and Becco restaurants, New York City.

Voyage 4933: Silver Whisper, October 17 - 24, Monte Carlo to Athens, 7 days. Silver Sailing fares start at $3,297. "World of Relais & Châteaux" -- Over seven days, these five Relais & Châteaux chefs are set to take part in what is sure to be the ultimate culinary festival at sea:

Jacques Thorel, Auberge Bretonne (La Roche-Bernard, Britanny, France)
Eyvind Hellstrøm, Bagatelle (Oslo, Norway)
Julien Lahire, Auberge du Moulin Hideux (Noirefontaine, Belgium)
Christian Gölles, Gasthof Post (Lech am Arlberg, Vorarlberg, Austria)
Erwan Louaisil, El Castell de Ciutat (La Seu d'Urgell, Lleida, Spain)

Voyage 2933: Silver Wind, October 18 - 30, Istanbul to Rome, 12 days. Silver Sailing fares start at $5,847. Anton Mosimann -- Chef/owner of Mosimann's, London.

NORTHERN EUROPE

Voyage 1916: Silver Cloud, July 11 - 26, Copenhagen (roundtrip), 15 days. Early Booking Incentive fares start at $11,396. Relais & Châteaux Grand Chef Eyvind Hellstrøm -- Chef/owner of Bagatelle, Oslo.

Fares listed are per person based on double occupancy for a Vista Suite and do not include port charges and handling fees that range from $100 to $500 per person, depending on the itinerary.

www.silversea.com

For information on Relais & Châteaux:
Tel: (800) 735-2478 (U.S./Canada)
TeL 00 800 2000 00 02 (U.K.)
www.relaischateaux.com

Prague, Czech Republic: The Buzz at The Four Seasons

How sweet it is! The buzz in the kitchen at Four Seasons Hotel Prague is starting to spread. In addition to the 27 (yes, 27!) talented cooks at Allegro, the Hotel's Michelin-star Italian restaurant, there's a rumour that 9.6 million specialty "chefs" have been recruited to make the food even sweeter. But these chefs don't chop, sauté or bake.
In fact, they're bees — literally! — property of Allegro's longtime saucier, Vladimir Milfait. Go Vlad. We love a unique twist on luxury. During prime honey-producing months, he maintains 60 hives, each of them occupying up to 160,000 bees, because that's what it takes to make the 500 kg that'll keep the restaurant dripping in deliciously sweet honey for about a year.
Four Seasons Hotel, Prague

Why so much liquid gold? Well, from pastries to meat marinades and sauces, honey is a key ingredient on the menu. What makes this stuff so special is variety: Vladimir's workforce creates oak, pine, and linden tree honey, all of which differ in scent, colour and consistency. This allows the restaurant's other chefs — vastly outnumbered by their bee counterparts — to select the right flavour for the right dish.

Talk about a sweet retreat for you and your honey.

www.fourseasons.com/prague/dining.html

The Himalayas: Ananda, The Best Destination Spa in the World

The World's #1 Destination Spa. Ah, so much can be said about a spa at the base of the Himalayas that was once a stunning princely estate ruled by the Shah family. The previous residence of Maharaja of Tehri-Garhwal is now ranked by Conde Nast as the World's Best Destination Spa and known, far and wide, to be charged with an all powerful "Shakti" energy. It is said that when Gods left their footprints on the land of Haridwar, they also left "an indelible mark on the spiritual ethos of every Hindu who would later follow their holy paths all across this blessed land." Of such significance is Haridwar that it's earned the name among Indian Hindu's 'The Gateway to the Gods.'
Legend has it that the holy Ganga, which flows through this sacred city, has actually been sanctified by the trinity of Hindu mythology (Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva) and, in the days of the British Raj, the palace welcomed noble Viceroys and people of eminence – including, you guessed it, Mahatama Gandhi!
Located in the tranquil Himalayan foothills close to the mythological cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh, Ananda is the spiritual pathway to the ultimate, discovered through the union of body, mind and soul. As their website says, "It is not just a retreat that will leave you breathless with the enchantment of its surroundings, but it will assist in redefining your lifestyle."
Garhwal today remains a land of myth and legend, where every stone tells a story. The earliest historical references to the region are found in the Vedas, paeans to the purity of the Himalayas. Specific mention of the mountains also exist in the Mahabharata, dated around 1000 BC. This is when the protagonists of the epic, the Pandavas, are said to have ended their life on earth by ascending the slopes of the peak in western Garhwal called Swargarohini - literally, the "Ascent to Heaven."
So take all that great Indian history and a spa program grounded in Ayurveda, Yoga and Vedanta combined with contemporary international therapies and world class masters and Ananda is truly the ultimate exotic holistic escape.

Rooms from @ $300-$1300/night
Wellness Package Programs also available

www.anandaspa.com

Guatemala: Eco-Tours, Local Markets, & Luxury

Every Jauntophile knows... Guatemala is one of Latin America’s hidden gems. Sandwiched between Mexico and Belize in the north and El Salvador and Honduras in the south, the name itself means 'Land of Trees,' and this hot jungle country is every bit as green as it's name suggests. Poised somewhere between the old and the new, roughing it or Ritzing it, this Central American country combines the unique traditions of Mayan heritage with a urban landscape of bustling cities and lush resorts. Wildly beautiful with towering volcanoes, verdant rainforest, colonial architecture and fascinating beaches, fusing these elements together are the people, the majority descendants of the ancient Mayan. Warm and generous, their spirit is one of welcome. This Central American country is also one of the most indigenous in the world, now distanced from it's unstable 36-year civil war. The best part? In this down economy, you can still get an entire meal for $3.00!
This photo contains a piece of deer meat, Tepezquintle meat (this would be a noctural rodent highly prized for it's rich flavor), a piece of wild turkey, and... a piece of Armadillo! Don't worry, not all the food is this daunting.

So where to stay in this wild jungle paradise of woven ponchos and beaded bracelets? Below are a few places to rest your weary head, a homebase from which to take off and land. Ideally located in Guatemala City and Antigua, each hotel below is a destination unto itself, ideal for couples, business travelers, and families.

Guatemala City
Guatemala is the country’s cultural, political and economic capital. Founded on the site of the ancient Mayan city Kaminaljuyu, the city is renowned for its abundance of archeological sites and rich cultural history. Now with a population of more than 3 million, it is one of Latin America ’s most vibrant urban destinations.
Hotel Vista Real, a member of Preferred Hotels® & Resorts, is the city’s grande dame. Perched above the city in an exclusive residential enclave, the Hotel Vista Real welcomes guests into an oasis of service and style. This all-suite luxury hotel stands out for its elegant artwork and fine dining. Comprised of 123 suites and eight meeting rooms, the Hotel Vista Real is ideal for a weekend getaway or dazzling wedding.

Rates starting at $145
www.vistareal.com
Hotel Princess, a member of Sterling Hotels™, combines a great location in the bustling zona viva with a friendly staff for a reasonable price. Just off of one of the city’s main avenues, Hotel Princess’s 104 guest rooms encircle an inner courtyard that is a haven for business and leisure travelers. The perennially popular Garden Court restaurant and Clancy’s Bar are the perfect places to sample great food and local hospitality.

Rates starting at $129
www.hotelesprincess.com

Antigua
An hour from Guatemala City lies the captivating town of Antigua. Situated in the central highlands, La Antigua Guatemala (“The Old Guatemala”) was the country’s third capital and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition, if you're looking for a beach close to La Antigua Guatemala, a few hours away is the beach of Monterrico where chickens and pigs roam free. In fact, we've even heard they like to dip in the ocean. Talk about au natural. A range of backpacker pensions and 3 star hotels are also available, if you're interested in staying the night.
La Reunion, Antigua Golf Resort, a member of Preferred Boutique™, is the region's most exquisite hideaway. A sophisticated collection of 26 free-standing cottages, each with their own plunge pool, every suite has been tastefully appointed in colonial style. Nestled amid two volcanoes, La Reunion also offers golf on a memorable Pete Dye-designed course. Gourmet cuisine and numerous activities make La Reunion, Antigua Golf Resort the great destination for a complete couples getaway.

Rates starting at $225
www.preferredboutique.com or www.lareunion.com.gt
Porta Hotel Antigua, a member of Summit Hotels & Resorts™, is located in the heart of the city, an easy distance to explore Antigua’s cobblestone streets, colonial churches and monuments. With 115 guestrooms, the hotel is a lush oasis of soothing greenery. Encircled by trees, the pool area is a popular destination for cooling off after a busy morning of sightseeing or meetings.

Rates starting at $162
www.portahotels.com

Before you start booking your tickets, growing a beard, and thinking you can singlehandedly unite The Americas into one (a la our favorite renegade revolutionary, Che G.), don't forget to visit Lake Atitlan. Lake Atitlan is one of the country’s most prized scenic locations. The tourist friendly fishing town of Panajachel is a great place to take an eco-tour of the area or climb the Pacaya volcano for a glance inside its cone. We also hear that a bus about five kilometers away from Antigua to Pastores is a village known for handmade leather Cowboy Boots.

Here's a handy guide for Guatemala's Eco-Tours:

www.ecotourdirectory.com/ecotours/guatemala/
www.atitlanresource.com/travel_agencies_eco.htm
www.enjoyguatemala.com/tours.htm

In addition, a trip to Guatemala wouldn't be complete without a jaunt to the ruins of El Mirador and Tikal in the northern Petén region. The nearby city of Flores serves as the ideal base for any trips into Petén. In the village of Chichicastenango, the Thursday and Sunday market are the best ways to gain insight into Guatemala culture as indigenous groups come from around the country come to sell their handmade multi-colored goods. For hotels in Flores, we recommend checking out:

Flores Hotels
www.destination360.com/central-america/guatemala/flores-hotels.php

Oh, and for those of you with, how shall we say, more 'discerning tastes,' here's another list of swanky Guatemalan digs:

Guatemala's Ultra Luxury Hotels
www.kiwicollection.com/luxury-hotels/guatemala
We think Casa Palopo is one fine spot overlooking Lake Atitlan, set against a backdrop of three volcanoes, Tolimán, Atitlán and San Pedro.

Riviera Maya: Mandarin Oriental's Wellness Yoga Retreat

Face it. You need a quick escape. Recharge that battered spirit. Elevate that funky mood. Take the OM out of ominous. We can feel it. We're there too. These days, everywhere we turn and everything we see is doom and gloom. Aside from trekking in the Andes and eating hot noodles in Saigon (which takes a bit more than four days), the Yoga Wellness Retreat at the Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya is a surefire way to relax and feel good about spending your hard-earned cash. When you give to your spirit, the Universe gives back. Did we mention that the honorable Rishi Bharadwaj of India is teaching? Well, he is... and he's 15 years of yogic magic.
Alas...

Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya presents its 2009 Wellness Yoga Retreat, a four-day holistic program featuring guided meditations, yoga classes, yogic diet and nutrition sessions from:

March 26 to 29
May 28 to 31
June 25 to 28

A relaxing weekend break at an award-winning spa and resort located on Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula? Si senorita. Eso es la vida perfecta.
Leading the Yoga Retreat is Yoga Instructor Rishi Bharadwaj, a native of India who comes from a family of yoga experts. Rishi will guide guests to determine the best possible programs to continue on their path towards health and wellness. The retreat begins on Thursday evening with a welcome group dinner and opportunity to meet with Rishi and fellow guests. Throughout the weekend, guests will experience Asana and Pranayama yoga sessions, diet and nutrition classes, quiet time for meditations, group discussions and bask in the luxurious accommodation at Mexico’s most sophisticated resort.



A naturalist’s paradise, Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya is nestled in mangrove reserves and tranquil lagoons highlighted by a spectacular cenote, a deep, freshwater reservoir sacred to the ancient Mayan.





The resort is only 10 minutes north of the always happening Playa del Carmen with dining, entertainment, and boutiques, just a 30-minute drive from Cancun International Airport.

The “Wellness Yoga Retreat” includes:

· Three-night stay at the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya
· Yogic breakfast daily and one group dinner
· Choice of one spa treatment
· Morning and evening yoga sessions
· Daily meditations
· Diet and nutrition classes
· Participation in daily fitness activities
· Complimentary use of Heat and Water Therapies
· Round-trip airport transfers

Now how's that for OM-nificent?

Rates from $2465 (single occupancy) and $3340 (double occupancy)

www.mandarinoriental.com

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico: The Holistic Yoga Wellness Retreat

This just in from The Marquis Los Cabos, one of our favorite Cabo properties, located right off 'The Corridor' on the southernmost tip of the Baja península where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific. To celebrate it's ability to soothe you, they're now offering the first of its transformational travel events. The Guru Getaway Series with renowned mind/body wellness instructor Kent Burden will take place from May 17-21, 2009. The 230 + room resort, just minutes from the Old World village of San Jose del Cabo and the town of Cabo San Lucas, has one of the best spas and fitness centers in the area (a 15,000 square foot retreat to be precise).
In addition, their exclusive gourmet restaurant, Canto del Mar, has one of the only Michelin-pedigreed chefs in Cabo. Our EIC stayed here about two years ago and was blown away by the fresh bread and fruit basket delivered each morning, the fantastic dinner service, and the excellent views. Since its 2003 opening, Marquis Los Cabos has earned the travel industry's most coveted awards including "World's Best" (Travel + Leisure); "Gold List Award" (Conde Nast Traveler); and the Five Star Diamond Award for its Canto del Mar restaurant. Marquis Los Cabos is also a member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World and the only member of Leading Spas of the World in Los Cabos.
The Holistic Wellness Getaway incorporates yoga, Qi Gong and Pilates instruction; a visit to an organic farm with cooking lesson; an art walk and progressive dinner in San Jose del Cabo; a waterfall hike and tai chi instruction; Real Food, Aztec Calendar and Modern Day Hunter/Gatherer lectures, and a horseback meditation ride into three days of mind/body activities that promise to encourage "personal growth" and "self-actualization." Who couldn't use some of that in these trying times?

With more than 25 years of fitness experience, Kent Burden has worked one-on-one with Oscar, Emmy, and Grammy winners and NFL and NBA champions alike. His mind/body program created at California's Ojai Valley Inn & Spa was voted by Spa Finder Magazine's Reader's Choice Awards as one of North America's top mind/body fitness programs. A certified personal trainer, Pilates instructor, Yoga instructor, Spinning instructor, water fitness instructor, Systematic Touch Trainer and Massage Therapist, you're, you guessed it... in really good hands. For more information on Kent, check out his website:

www.mylifefitness.com

The 5 day/4 night Holistic Wellness Getaway is $2,550 per person, based on single occupancy, and includes all lectures and mind/body activities, suite accommodations, a signature welcome drink made of natural local fruits, breakfast daily, gifts upon arrival and departure, box lunches for all activities, VIP roundtrip airport/hotel transportation, and all service charges and taxes.

www.marquisloscabos.com

Four Seasons Seychelles: By the Sea Shore

Good news, lads and lassies! The Four Seasons Resort Seychelles has opened it's doors. Said to be a 'remote, hillside retreat that embraces the natural simplicity of treetop living,' this brand spankin' new property occupies an isolated position overlooking the idyllic bay of Petite Anse, just 30 minutes from the Mahé international airport. The Republic of Seychelles, East of Africa and North of Madagascar, is a tropical haven of 115 islands scattered across 530,000 square miles of the western Indian Ocean, an archipelago of 41 hilly, granite islands surrounded by low-lying coral islands. Covering a secluded area of 170 acres on the southwest coast of Mahé, the Four Seasons Seychelles consists of 67 villas and suites and 28 Four Seasons Private Residences that descend down a lush forested incline to the private, horseshoe beach of Petite Anse. Creole-inspired design complements the dramatic topography with granite boulders, steep jungle slopes and a shoreline indented with pirate coves. That's right... argghhh, who goes there, Matey? Back in the day, these waters were a favorite among the Jack Sparrows of the water world.
Four Seasons Seychelles Room

Get this... each of the 67 tree-house villas and suites is perched on stilts amid a jungle of coconut, mango, jackfruit and cinnamon trees. How disgustingly exotic is that? Standard features in all villas also include an infinity-edge plunge pool, open-air shower, glass-walled bathroom and expansive private outdoor living space with sunset views over the Indian Ocean or surrounding landscape. At the base of the Resort, black granite boulders, powder-white sand and tropical foliage combine with the azure blues of the sea and sky to create a vivid image of exotic island perfection. To keep you looking good and feeling good, there are also plenty of water sports, water trails and off-site activities like tennis, trekking, hiking, bird watching, mountain biking and paragliding. It's also a perfect paradise location for weddings, from a simple blessing on the private powder-white beach to a civil ceremony among the frangipani. Say it again after me... frangipani. Now isn't that fun?
Four Seasons Seychelles Exterior

The Resort’s main restaurant, ZEZ (Creole for a zither), offers a breakfast buffet of Continental and Asian dishes with a full American breakfast and speciality dishes available à la carte. Dinner takes on a Mediterranean air, featuring Portuguese, Spanish, Italian, Greek, Turkish and Lebanese dishes. The restaurant focuses on simple cuisine and deep flavours and offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, extra virgin olive oils, tapas, mezzes and speciality Arabic breads. An extensive wine list features 250 wine labels from the Old and New World since no vacay is complete without a lonnnngggg list of fine wines.

Oh, and their beach... one of the top ten beaches in the world. So stop complaining about the snow, the economy, your husband, and your weight and get lost in the Seychelles by the sea shore.

Rates from €1,000/night

www.fourseasons.com/seychelles/

Paris, France: A Boutique (Tres) Chic Art Hotel

Hotel Des Academies

Jaunt says, “Take your lover to Paris this year!” Since we live for hunting down the hottest deals and coolest hotels, we came across this artsy little gem located right on the left bank in the 6th Arr. Walking distance to the Jardin de Luxembourg, Saint-Germain-de-Pres, The Louvre and almost every other romantic attraction, Hotel des Academies et des Arts is a 20-room boutique art hotel that pays homage to the artistic heritage of both the building and the neighborhood. The owners brought together several artists to create an original backdrop for contemporary works of art and recently opened a tea room lovingly called 'Chez Charlotte.' We also hear it's the only hotel in Paris to serve famed French pastry chef Pierre Herme's macarons. Psst... rumor has it that Modigliani and Gauguin once slept here when they were art students across the street at the Academie de Grand Chaumiere.

If that’s not enough to make you want to channel your inner Cezanne, we really don’t know what is.

www.hoteldesacademies.com

Rates from €190

New York City: Another Valetine's Day Getaway

Trump International New York City

Talk about a room with a view. Does it get any better than feeling on top of the world, Trump style? We're feeling so amorous lately that we're pulling out all the stops and preparing you for the Big V Day. Check this baby out. Trump Hotel Collection is offering an ‘Enchanted Evening’ Package where guests staying at any Trump Hotel Collection property can make this Valentine’s Day even more special with a trio of romantic amenities – a bottle of chilled Champagne, decadent handcrafted chocolates, and a bouquet of one dozen long stem roses – included with a one-night stay. The “Enchanted Evening” Valentine’s Day Getaway package is being offered at Trump International Hotel & Tower New York, Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago and Trump Hotel Las Vegas Feb. 13-15, 2009. Take in the stunning city views from spacious residential-style rooms with fully equipped gourmet kitchens where you can whip up your own little treats a la Martha Stewart (only imagine yourself looking more like Alessandra Ambrosio). If cooking isn't your thing, you'll have access to world-class dining, spas, and the signature services of a Trump Attaché, your own majordomo, ready to fulfill (almost) all of your aching whims.

Trump International Hotel & Tower New York rates start at $595. Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago rates start at $595. Trump Hotel Las Vegas rates starting at $209.

Isn't your Boo worth it?

www.trumpintl.com

Santa Monica, California: A Valentine's Deal...

Oceana Santa Monica, California

Happy Friday, my little Jauntophiles! Time seems to be flying faster than clam in high tide, so we're here to remind you about the always dreaded and shamelessly hopeful holiday... Valentine's Day! The perfect time to indulge in a romantic getaway, The Oceana in Santa Monica, with her seaside views and ocean breezes, is offering SoCal couples the perfect escape to celebrate. Guests can count on Oceana for a sexy evening including an in-room couples massage, strawberries, chocolate, and champagne. An ideal romantic setting for cocktails around their signature heart-shaped pool decorated with floating votives and red roses, it's only minutes away from LA, but couples will feel transported to a relaxing, beachside oasis.
The “Love is in the Air” package includes:

· One night stay in one of Oceana Santa Monica’s ocean view rooms
· Complimentary valet parking
· Champagne and chocolate covered strawberries delivered upon arrival
· In-room couples massage
· Cocktail hour with music in the courtyard surrounding the hotel’s heart shaped pool
· Breakfast in bed in the comfort of your hotel room
· Late check out on February 15 (because you'll need it)

A great respite from the city, Oceana Santa Monica is one of LA’s hidden hideaways giving guests the comforts of home with the luxury and sophistication of a chic boutique hotel by the beach. It was completely transformed in fall 2007 to offer extra-large guest suites, many with ocean views, the Ocean Lounge restaurant, featuring a menu of fresh California cuisine from local farmer’s markets and purveyors, a heated outdoor pool, an intimate lounge area with a fireplace, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a well-equipped oceanview boardroom (a favorite for either business meetings or personal vacations). Steps from the sand and minutes from the trendy shops and restaurants along Montana Avenue, Oceana’s beachside location gives couples the chance to hang by the ocean or stroll along Santa Monica's charming streets.

Price per couple @ $499

www.hoteloceanasantamonica.com
Tel: 310-393-0486