Issue 2, 2012
European & Mediterranean News
Welcome...
Contents
...to a distinctly sunnier issue of our regular travel magazine with some warming features to revitalise your holiday taste buds. If you would like to find regular sunshine and escape the incessant rain then we are sure that the features within the magazine will point you in the right direction. We are delighted to showcase some of the world’s finest beach resorts and hotels in popular winter sun destinations as well as some new contenders like The Residence Maldives, a stylish retreat lying smack on the Equator on an idyllic, private island within the southernmost of the Maldives atolls. Alternatively, you can always be sure of great activities to keep all the family occupied at the awardwinning Palm Tree Court & Spa, Dubai’s favourite family resort. For a truly indulgent escape why not consider booking one of the new family suites at Le Prince Maurice on the sun-kissed island of Mauritius. Discover exciting new destinations and cultures as we unveil some Far Eastern gems like the new river cruiser, Orcaella, that will ply the waterways of Myanmar or the fabulous new resorts at Lăng Cô Bay in the underdeveloped but extremely beautiful area of Central Vietnam. If you want an exotic adventure within a short flight of the UK then head for a stay at Four Seasons Marrakech.
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European & Mediterranean News
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Peak Performance Two great places to enjoy the mountain air - Courchevel and Zermatt.
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10 The Return of the Prince A fresh look and some excellent new family suites at Le Prince Maurice in Mauritius
Lăng Cô Bay in Central Vietnam
I am sure you will agree that there are a lot of enticing ideas covered in this issue from which to plan a great escape, so sit back, have a good read then give us a call to discuss your perfect holiday...
One of the Amalfi coastline’s most cherished boutique hotels, Palazzo Sasso is changing its name in January 2013 to Palazzo Avino in homage of the family who owns the hotel and as a fitting testament to the original endeavours of Guiseppe Avino, who saw the potential, renovated and opened his “dream place” in July 1997 out of the remains of an aristocratic dwelling that dates back to the 12th century. Whilst the name change comes as a result of a legal battle over the use of the name “Palazzo Sasso”, it also reflects how the Avino family will be closely involved in the running of this hugely popular hotel on the hillside of Ravello.
With its classical and modern décor Le Bar du Bristol welcomes clients from Paris and around the world. The Head Barman, Maxime Hoerth, Meilleur Ouvrier de France in 2011 proposes exceptional Champagnes, wines and cocktail drinks and to accompany them, 3 Michelin Star Head Chef Eric Frechon has created an assortment of tapas for guests to enjoy.
A Playground for Families, or a Romantic Getaway for Couples at the Four Seasons Resort Marrakech.
Discovering Ritz-Carlton
Authentic Charms and Pristine Landscapes in Central Vietnam at Laguna Lăng Cô.
Tantalising nibbles, exceptional cocktails and hip vibes at Le Bar du Bristol, Paris
6 Oasis in the Red City
Hotels of distinction in very special places where service comes first.
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An Italian Love Story: Palazzo Sasso Becomes Palazzo Avino
Each evening a huge mirror transforms into a screen showing a selection of artists' videos. On Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings "Le Bar du Bristol" welcomes a DJ to create a tailor-made musical atmosphere.
Pera Palace re-opens after four-year renovation 12 Journeys in the Land of Smiles
Charting a course through Myanmar with Orient-Express.
It's East meets West in glamorous, exotic and stylish form. Istanbul’s most famous hotel has just had a £20 million facelift – and it's got to be seen to be believed. The Pera Palace, the first Western Hotel to be built in Turkey, has just completed a four-year renovation project. First opened in 1892 to meet the needs of the Orient-Express in the final decade of the Ottoman Empire – it’s now been restored to its former glory.
Niall Douglas Managing Director
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Tropical Island Residence
Published by Travelspeak Limited - 020 8944 6050
Private villas with a butler ...a thoroughly civilised approach to holiday paradise!
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59 St Mary's Street Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 0EL
Tel: 0800 048 8772 Fax: 01491 501662
www.fullcircletravel.co.uk
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World News
If you are looking for a quality experience and those special things that define luxury travel then a professional, independent travel consultant is worth his/her weight in gold (or at least a modest fee!). Here is the CASE in favour:
Competitive:
Low Rise Dubai A timely autumn reopening of a firm family favourite at the all-suite Palm Tree Court & Spa.
The Canny Traveller ...is the person who uses a travel agent
Added Value: 20 Miami Metabolics A more flexible approach by one the leading US wellness spa companies compliments the Miami Beach lifestyle.
Security: Expertise:
Travel Agents can often beat any other prices available (even online) and will certainly have access to much cheaper club class, business and 1st class airfares. They will have access to benefits you can’t get otherwise. Indeed, a top consultant can also make you an instant VIP – negotiating room upgrades (sometimes complimentary), arranging restaurant reservations, private viewings and other lifestyle perks. They are always working for YOU and will be a safety net during your trip that you simply won’t get by booking yourself or buying insurance. The Travel Agent will know more than you do and will be better connected with hotels, airlines and tour operators.
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Peak Performance
winter summer
The winter landscape of Courchevel within the Trois Vallées ski domain offers one of the world’s greatest winter sports venues. For a more refined environment stay at the more genteel village of Courchevel 1650. ..
Portetta
The Omnia
Ski-in ski-out in the heart of Courchevel
Modern designs in the shadow of the Matterhorn
ocated in Courchevel 1650 within tranquil and stylish surroundings in the largest ski area in the French Alps, Portetta Hotel, Lofts & Mountain Lodges are a haven dedicated to skiers. Offering an exceptional location with the ultimate in ski-in ski-out luxury, the 4-star hotel has thirty eight rooms and six stylish lofts (an ideal choice for families). The lodges further up the slope – suitably named after local mountain animals, Chamois, Blanchot, Marmotte and Petite Marmotte - can accommodate between ten to fourteen guests with Petite Marmotte accommodating two making it the perfect setting for a couples retreat.
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Could Portetta be a contender for the most userfriendly accommodation in the Alps? It certainly offers all the right components; informal yet chic, undeniably family friendly, superb cuisine with both local Savoie and classic French at a choice of two restaurants, excellent communal spaces including a stunning sun terrace, a delicious subterranean spa complex... even the Courchevel 1650 ski-school is located just outside the hotel! In our opinion this is a true lifestyle hotel offering the best value for luxury in Courchevel and will deliver the ultimate hotel-skiing experience.
More and more people are choosing to spend their summer holidays in the Alps. Perhaps it is the invigorating and clean air that stimulates the senses. Certainly it is the ultimate terrain for walking, climbing and many other exciting outdoor pursuits. Discover a welcome refuge from the crowded beaches and stiffling heat of the Mediterranean...
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n the Swiss Alps, perched dramatically above the slate grey roofs of Zermatt, a conifer-studded mountainside is bisected by the sharp lines of a modern alpine hideaway. Here at The Omnia, which sits serenely in the shadow of the Matterhorn, New York-based architect Ali Tayar has fused elements of the traditional American mountain lodge with functional, modernist furnishings, creating a high-altitude space for reflection and rejuvenation.
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The word Omnia, which means ‘the all encompassing’ in Latin, gives clues about Tayar’s inclusive design philosophy. Inside his 30 individual rooms and suites, which have been left unnumbered to enhance the homely mountain lodge feel, primal elements come together as a harmonious whole. Fires crackle in black, egg-shaped stoves, while shades of dark granite and white oak accent furnishings that have been custom-made by local cabinet makers. Private balconies offer spectacular views of the saw-toothed peaks that surround the car-free town of Zermatt. Nestled in the heart of the romantic Visper Valley and surrounded by meadows of fragrant alpine flowers, The Omnia offers a tranquil base from which to explore the mountain trails above and around Zermatt when not indulging in the hotel’s splendid facilities including the sensational spa and pool. The summer season begins in mid-June and continues to draw visitors well into the colourful early autumn.
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Oasis in the Red City A Playground for Families, or a Romantic Getaway for Couples at the Four Seasons Resort Marrakech
Marra kech a t a gl
ance
our Seasons Resort Marrakech is a 40-acre walled estate within Morocco’s most exciting city, with 141 rooms and suites, three dining options, a lavish spa and a world of possibilities for relaxation, exploration and memories.
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balcony or terrace for leisurely breakfasts or dining à deux, and the adults-only pool promises a relaxing day in the sun. At the Spa, a separate couples pavilion with its own entrance and series of private suites opens the possibilities for shared journeys of relaxation and renewal.
Inspired by the nearby Medina, the resort offers a modern take on traditional Moorish architecture. Rosehued pavilions with hand-carved details are surrounded by sunlit swimming and reflecting pools, gardens, pathways and fountains. Buildings are low-rise so as not to obstruct stunning views of the snowcapped Atlas Mountains and the Menara Gardens beyond the Hotel’s swaying palms. The accommodations evoke a Moroccan medina, filled with riads connected by arcades, walkways and courtyards. Each of the spacious guest rooms and suites has its own furnished balcony or terrace with mountain, Menara Gardens or resort views.
Families will adore the sumptuous main pool. Four Seasons also offers the city’s only fully-supervised facility for children, Kids for All Seasons, along with dozens of conveniences for families from complimentary strollers, cribs, high chairs and other baby gear to kids menus. Connecting rooms with a private foyer mean everyone can be together, and a Young Adult Centre and babysitting services allows family members to do their own thing if they choose.
Families and friends travelling together will love the flexibility available at Four Seasons Resort Marrakech that will allow everyone to enjoy themselves. For couples seeking an interlude Four Seasons Resort Marrakech is a romantic oasis, with private spaces and experiences to share. Every room and suite has its own 6
Some might say that the resort offers a destination in its own right with so much on offer. It most certainly delivers a tranquil enclosure within easy walking distance of the city’s principal sights. Since opening in June 2011 it has already become one of the city’s most acclaimed dining spots with Chef Francesco Montano’s innovative Italian cuisine at the three-storey Bleu D’Orange restaurant. No evening would be complete without enjoying sunset over the Atlas mountains on the rooftop bar, Zest at Bleu D’Orange. For Moroccan fare dine at Azzera.
Flight tim e from U K: 3 hou rs 30 min Marrake utes ch is kno wn as “T rose-tinte he Red C d buildin it y, ”a gs conta ined wit reference to the Marrakech hin its pin w h a kish-ora ealth of s o ft en b and is an nge wall exotic m een referred to a s. s ix of Ara b, Berbe the Capital of So There are u r th a nd sub-S e fe aharan in rn Morocco than wa w more pleasu fluences. rab nd These so ering around th le ways to spen e se d ti uk further in s comprise alley emingly endless me in Marrakech upon all you ventu maze of ey o m re the m ore intere f tiny retail cub arkets. Whilst T icles. The sting the he Red C y becom ity may billion w e. seem as spent ea spent on tourism a chaotic place , ch year. a in n fr e a n st o It is rm ruc destinati on waitin the quintessen ture in 2007 wit ous US$2 h tia g to be d iscovere l, short haul exo more being d. tic
Main picture: Above: left: Below left:
The Presidential Suite with stunning views across the resort to the High Atlas Mountains The Spa Above right: Exploring the Souks Royal Villa Below right: Bleu D’Orange Restaurant
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The Ritz-Carlton Vienna, Austria Music to the ears of Viennese visitors ...even in the pool! Discover The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna, a historic building composed of four former Palais from the 19th century that are culturally protected. The 202-room hotel, which includes 43 suites, is located on Schubertring, a part of the city’s most elegant boulevard, the Vienna Ringstraße and within walking distance of the city’s main landmarks. The hotel offers a perfect base to explore the sights but life within is as much of a draw with a range of dining options including a chance to eat at the Chef’s table of well-known Austrian Chef, Wini Brugger of DSTRIKT Restaurant. Relax at the Spa or swim in the remarkable 18m indoor pool, a truly immersive affair with underwater music!
The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park A home from home in the heart of the “Big Apple”.
The Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation, Georgia, USA
Discovering Ritz-Carlton
Hotels of distinction in very special places where service comes first.
ooking after and exceeding the needs of each and every guest is at the very foundation of the Ritz-Carlton success story. The hotel is considered the gold standard of hospitality because of the conviction that employees are the face of their company, and that service isn't just part of the brand, it is the brand. Attention to detail is bound to have a positive effect on guests and Ritz-Carlton are justifiably proud of the high percentage of repeat business from contented customers.
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With a legacy that stretches back over 100 years to the very birth of the modern, luxury hotel, Ritz-Carlton today offers a prestigious global network of 81 properties with a further 11 set to open shortly in exciting new locations like Tamuda Bay in Morocco, Bangalore in India and Molasses Bay in the Turks & Caicos. We hope to 8
showcase these and other properties in future issues but for the moment we felt it would be appropriate to highlight three stars from the collection reflecting varied opportunities to discover special places in the company of RitzCarlton - Vienna, New York and Okinawa (see left). For those of you who would perhaps like to see the bar placed even higher then mention should be made of the Ritz-Carlton Club Level. To be found at many of the hotels, this exclusive domain offers club level guests even more individualised attention with dedicated lounges where delicious food offerings are prepared throughout the day and a personal concierge is available to assist you with everything from hard-to-get restaurant reservations to changing your airline flights.
Sometimes it really is a case of location, location and location especially when you are talking about one of the world’s greatest cities. The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park, offers an exclusive address in Midtown Manhattan with all the elegance and charm of a private home in the heart of the “Big Apple”. The big news for Autumn 2012 is the opening of “Auden” Restaurant incorporating an open floor plan that combines the famous bar with the new restaurant and the adjoining Star Lounge. Auden, meaning “old friend,” showcases Executive Chef Mark Arnao’s refined adaptation of traditional bistro cuisine.
The Ritz-Carlton Okinawa, Japan A sub-tropical sanctuary in Japan’s Southern prefecture. Okinawa has all the makings of a remarkable, subtropical travel experience with crystal-clear waters, top-notch scuba diving, endless stretches of beach, a generous helping of UNESCO World Heritage sites and delicious local cuisine. And yet the destination had remained a well-kept Japanese secret - not so now with the recent opening of the new Ritz-Carlton. This impeccable 97 guest room resort is located in the tranquil grounds of Kise Country Club with far-reaching views across the 18-hole championship golf course and surrounding woodlands down to the East China Sea ...a perfect stopover for any Far East trip. 9
The Return of the Prince A fresh look and some excellent new suites ideal for families marks the crowning return of Constance Le Prince Maurice in Mauritius
ubtly camouflaged across 148 lush acres punctuated by pools and lagoons, Le Prince Maurice is without doubt one of Mauritius’ finest resorts and the flagship of Constance Resorts’ portfolio of luxury resorts across The Indian Ocean.
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Opened in late 1998, it was the creation of Frenchman Patrice Binet-Decamps, who wanted it to be elegant but not ostentatious and to blend in with the island's topography. Fourteen years later Le Prince Maurice is still setting the benchmark that other resorts endeavour to match, a task they will find even harder as a result this year’s recent enhancements and refurbishment. The resort works exceedingly well in providing a balance of accommodation and facilities to suit a subtle mix of couples and families. For instance, a carefully located kid’s club, Les Petits Princes, is set well away from grown-up areas. Similarly, those seeking more privacy will be drawn to suites and villas within the Barachois (fishing reserve) rather than around the main beach and the centre of the resort. A welcome enhancement for guests with children is now provided by 12 new thatched-roof family suites, with a choice of sea or garden views. Each feature a 10
main en-suite bedroom, children’s room with bunk beds and bathroom, and a spacious sitting area. Some suites offer direct access to the beach. Le Prince Maurice is often described as the most romantic and indulgent experience and one of the highlights is a fish and seafood dinner on one of the five floating, tented pontoons at Le Barachois restaurant. The evening entertainment is sure to continue well into the night with the addition nearby of a floating bar. This hip new spot will give guests a space to enjoy long evenings listening to live music and DJ sets while sampling some wonderful cocktails and wines. The main restaurant, Archipel, now boasts a most impressive wine list with the addition of a state-of-the-art wine cellar with a capacity for holding 15,000 bottles. Leisure facilities have also been improved with the addition of a new, heated lap pool set well away from the main pool. On a more holistic note, the Spa de Constance now features treatments utilising the Sisley brand including chemical free options. This leader of Mauritian hospitality has always wowed its guests, but this latest return of the prince will certainly raise the bar high above the competition. 11
Journeys in the Land of Smiles Charting a course through Myanmar with Orient-Express.
tarting summer 2013, new opportunities will open up that will allow discerning travellers to explore even more of the fascinating land of Myanmar. Orient-Express’ new river cruiser, Orcaella, will join its sister ship, Road To Mandalay, on the mighty Ayeyarwady River. Also, it will venture into new waters along its more mysterious tributary, the Chindwin.
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Named after the dolphins unique to the Ayeyarwady, this elegant, four-deck ship will take just 50 privileged passengers to the very heart of Myanmar on leisurely seven-night and eleven-night voyages.
Orcaella will cruise between Yangon and Bhamo, stopping at key cultural sites and towns, as well as dropping anchor at fascinating, off-the-beaten-track sites. This nimble ship will also cruise the Chindwin, passing successive mountain ranges, winding its way through western Myanmar as far north as Homalin, just 36 miles from the Indian border.
Guests will stay in 25 spacious cabins with floorto-ceiling sliding doors that frame the riverside vistas. Ample cruising time will enable them to fully enjoy the Observation Deck, restaurant, swimming pool and fitness centre, as well as regular onboard entertainment by local artists and experts. Starting July 2013, Orcaella's schedule will run from January to April and from July to December.
Fascinating offshore excursions will range from the chance to witness a traditional Novitiation Ceremony of local monks to a journey to explore caves housing 492 Buddha chambers carved into the hillside.
Any trip to Myanmar will most certainly involve a stopover in the capital, Yangon. Orient-Express have the ideal base from which to discover the wealth of religious sites that fan out from the mighty gold-spired Shwedagon. The Governor’s Residence is a romantic, colonial-style mansion dating from the 1920's set in lush gardens dotted with lily ponds. Myanmar is a country of extraordinary sights populated by a gentle people who have endured much under the recent military regime, and yet one of the enduring images of daily life is that of a land of smiles. As the tide of democracy flows gently onwards this must surely present one of the most enticing travel experiences.
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Laguna Lang Cô
Lang Cô Bay
pening in November 2012, Laguna Lăng Cô is the first and largest world-class integrated resort in Vietnam. The 280-hectare community is situated near Lăng Cô Bay and is framed by a three kilometre beach overlooking the East Sea.
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Authentic Charms and Pristine Landscapes in Central Vietnam
Central Vietnam and the Lăng Cô area has been heralded as one of the most stunning locations in Vietnam. The 21 km mountain range of the Hai Van Pass showcases incredible landscapes around the Annamese Mountains, down to the Bach Ma National Park and the beautiful Da Nang coastline. Even though this area is starting to open its doors to visitors, it still retains its authentic charm and pristine environment. Now is the time to visit.
he area around Laguna Lăng Cô resort was historically a favoured holiday retreat for Vietnamese royalty. The destination resonates with mystique and natural beauty and is accessible within an hour’s drive from the airports of both Da Nang and Hue. In turn these airports offer excellent connections for international flights from the UK routing via Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam, or from nearby Bangkok and Singapore.
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A pristine white sand beach and sparkling turquoise waters are framed by lush hills and mountains soaring amidst white clouds, offering a dramatic setting from which to explore one of Vietnam’s most picturesque regions. Laguna Lăng Cô sits at the crossroads of several distinctive UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient capital city of Hue on the shores of the Perfume River, the charming and age-old city of Hoi An and the ruins of My Son, a sanctuary featuring temples and monuments with intricate carvings.
The development, which includes both Banyan Tree and Angsana hotels and spas, is nestled in a unique crescent bay offering privacy and unparalleled exclusivity set directly on the beach. Each resort offers a plethora of dining venues and recreational activities for guests of all ages, whilst a stunning chapel makes Laguna Lăng Cô an ideal overseas wedding venue. A splendid 18-hole par-71 championship golf course designed by Sir Nick Faldo delivers a golfing experience that can be enjoyed by skilled and novice players alike. z
Angsana Lang Cô Ideal for families and adventure seekers www.banyantree.com www.angsana.com
his family-friendly resort commands an unrivalled beach frontage. Angsana Lăng Cô offers exceptional contemporary accommodation and activities designed for couples and families, plus a variety of dining options both within the resort and at the nearby Banyan Tree Lăng Cô. The award-winning Angsana Spa features 10 treatment rooms and provides guests with a unique “high touch, low tech” approach using fragrant oils, organic herbs and healing botanicals.
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229 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, are decorated with unique Vietnamese elements of bamboo, calligraphy, folk art
The Resort’s 300 metre pool wraps itself around the property and includes the Laguna Water Sports Centre and Marine Lab where one can hire equipment or take lessons before setting off from Canh Duong beach on various aquatic adventures – such as snorkelling, diving, sailing, water-skiing, windsurfing, kayaking and jet skiing. A comprehensive and complimentary range of activities together with dedicated spaces are offered through the Angsana Kids Club.
Dine at a range of restaurants with a tantalising choice of international and Vietnamese cuisine. Rice Bowl offers local and Asian rice-based dishes. Moomba is an al fresco venue for tapas, while Upper Deck opens onto views of the East Sea and is the ideal venue for guests seeking a relaxing lounge atmosphere to cap their days. The Rice Bar is the resort’s dedicated cigar bar and destination for fine wines, aged whiskeys and inspiring Asian rice-based beverages complemented by live music.
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Banyan Tree Lang Cô A sophisticated and private retreat ocated in its own private enclave, Banyan Tree Lăng Cô offers an exclusive all-pool villa retreat that will particularly appeal to honeymooners, couples seeking complete privacy, spa lovers and culture seekers wishing to explore the sights of Central Vietnam.
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Inspired by the artistic heritage of Vietnamese dynasties past, the resort features 32 one-bedroom lagoon villas (131 sqm) and 17 one-bedroom beach villas (124 sqm) set on the shores of Canh Duong beach.
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and lanterns, whilst offering mountain, lagoon or sea views.
Experience a sanctuary for the senses at Banyan Tree Spa Lăng Cô, the first foray of the world-renowned Banyan Tree Spa in Vietnam. The spa focuses on a holistic approach to physical and spiritual wellbeing, drawing on time-honoured Asian spa traditions, to blend romance and serenity with exotic sensuality. Banyan Tree Lăng Cô offers an array of eclectic dining experiences from modern Thai cuisine to French specialties with hints of Vietnamese influence.
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1.
Tropical Island Residence
Private villas with a butler ...a thoroughly civilised approach to holiday paradise!
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1. Pristine white sands and crystal clear turquoise waters 2. The Beach Bar and Main Pool 3. Beach Villa Living Room
Reef Encounter
4. Villa Bedroom 5. The Spa by Clarins
he Residence Maldives, a member of prestigious The Leading Hotels of the World, is nestled on Falhumaafushi, a pristine island in the Gaafu Alifu atoll, forming part of the largest atolls in the world. Located 242 miles south of Male International Airport, it is reached via an air and short sea transfer.
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Swaying palm trees and powder-soft white sands are in abundance here. The island’s natural flora and fauna encourages cool exploration of its lush landscaped gardens, whilst the surrounding waters teem with spectacular marine life in vibrant coral reefs. This secluded retreat, 1km long by 120m at its widest point, offers unparalleled beauty. Unspoilt, tranquil and breathtaking, it is a true refuge from the norm 16
comprising 94 elegant beach and over-water thatched villas, each administered by a personal butler as you would expect from The Residence hotels. Beach front and beach pool villas of one and twobedrooms provide a serene escape. Guests in water villas, also one and two-bedroomed, can slip straight from sundecks into crystal clear waters of their own private lagoons. The Residence Maldives features the only Spa by Clarins in the archipelago. Serenely located at the end of a jetty over the lagoon, it offers holistic treatments, pampering massages and hair salon services at six serene pavilions. Treatments showcase acclaimed Clarins spa formulas with plant origins.
Leisure activities include an extensive selection of water sports including a dedicated PADI-5 Dive Centre for both experienced and beginner divers to discover some of the most spectacular dive spots in the Maldives. The atoll’s reefs are famed for vibrant marine life including barracuda, turtles and white-tip sharks. A Kids’ Club keeps youngsters aged 3-12 entertained all day while parents relax. Resort facilities extend to a sauna and steam room, fitness centre, internet corner, library including DVDs & CDs, boutique and gift shop.
Dine over the reef at The Falhumaa, an over-water venue that is spectacularly located at the end of a 230m long jetty. The menu features western cuisine with the emphasis on fresh seafood and grilled meats complemented by fine wines from around the world. The bar is a relaxed and intimate setting for aperitifs and after-dinner liqueurs. Alternatively, contemporary Asian, Indian and Maldivian cuisine can be enjoyed on the island at The Dining Room. Private dining is also available, either for romantic barbecues at villas or on the beach, served by a personal chef and waiter.
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Low Rise Dubai
The all-suite Palm Tree Court & Spa glistens with new features after a summer of refurbishment.
Main picture: Top left: Bottom left:
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Overlooking the resort’s private beach Junior Suite Top right: Water sports Lush open spaces Middle right: Infinity Pool Bottom right: Golf at Jebel Ali
estled in a lush garden setting, just steps from a pristine private beach, the Palm Tree Court & Spa is a low rise, Mediterranean style family resort located next to its sister property, the famous Jebel Ali Hotel. Both have an enduring reputation as popular, family friendly establishments but if you are looking for superlative accommodation then the allsuite Palm Tree Court will be your top choice.
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enhance the enjoyment of guests from Autumn 2012. Both the White Orchid and Fontana restaurants have been refurbished, with a second floor extension at the former, and an extensive reworking of all areas of La Fontana including the adjoining pool and bar area. In addition the popular salt water pool has been improved and a second free-form pool has been added close to the beachfront.
The luxurious beach hotel is comprised of 208 suites and junior suites in six, three level Mediterranean style residences. Each residence in the family beach resort is surrounded by lush gardens and greenery which enriches the property’s exclusive and opulent ambiance. Featuring its own separate reception area, restaurants and shops, the Palm Tree Court & Spa family beach resort in Dubai is set within tropical gardens strewn with fish-filled streams, ponds and waterfalls, arched wooden bridges, viewing terraces and decks.
There is significant added benefits for guests who purchase an All Inclusive Value Package. This includes lunch, dinner and snacks on a full dine-around basis in a choice of 15 restaurants and bars(buffet or à la carte) as well as buffet breakfast at La Fontana. In addition a range of beverages are complimentary with or without meals including soft drinks, house wine, house beer and house pouring spirits. Guests will also receive complimentary wind surfing, catamaran, laser, kayaking and camel rides.
The Residence is the epitome of luxury, comfort and choice at Palm Tree Court & Spa. This beachfront villa on the resort’s Arabian Gulf shore, houses a limited collection of spacious 2-bedroom suites, 1-bedroom suites and junior suites where guests can enjoy special complimentary amenities and preferential treatment.
It is no surprise that Jebel Ali have received the award for the “World’s Leading Family Resort” and guests will be spoilt for choice with a myriad of onshore and water activities for children, teenagers and adults. Even the smallest are looked after with the introduction this autumn of the Crèche, the first of its kind in 5 star resorts in Dubai. The Crèche offers professional child care facilities for children from 4 months up to 3 years of age.
The resort has undergone some significant redevelopment over the summer that will further
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Miami Metabolics
Canyon Ranch puts the buzz back into living with a unique hotel experience that is sure to stimulate the senses
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nergise the body and the rest will fall into place. It’s the basic premise of many a successful health and wellness spa, but when you stay at Canyon Ranch Hotel & Spa on Miami Beach you will encounter the most comprehensive, unique, adventurous, flexible and even... indulgent services and treatments yet devised to rediscover the body beautiful at Southern Florida’s largest spa. Now there’s one of the best (and possibly healthiest) reasons for a holiday in the ever popular “Sunshine State”!
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There is so much to do even before considering the nearby sights, festivals and shopping opportunities of Miami. Perhaps, a visit to the Aquavana Thermal Suites for some lymphatic stimulation and body oxygenation. Increase your metabolic rate as you progress through the most complete series of European thermal water caverns, experiencing intense temperature changes including the “Igloo” or experiential rain showers with options like “Polar Mist” complete with mood sounds and invigorating aromas - the ultimate adult water park!
The stunning beachfront hotel is an iconic, modern Miami residence with striking communal spaces designed by pre-eminent architect, David Rockwell, who successfully combines the energy of Miami Beach with a sense of serenity that defines Canyon Ranch. But be prepared for surprises like the two-storey, indoor climbing wall with ocean views! 750 metres of Miami Beach fronts the property, promising ample space to enjoy the outdoors or to frame each perfect ocean sunrise from the comfort of the spacious (and competitively priced) all-suite accommodation, in anticipation of another event-filled day.
Of course, no matter what activities, lectures or treatments you partake in you will surely muster a good appetite. At Canyon Ranch award-winning cuisine combines tasty with the highest culinary and nutritional standards whether it is a gourmet meal at the Canyon Ranch Grill or a snack at the pool. Above all, Canyon Ranch Miami Beach offers a flexible approach tailored to the personal preferences of each guest. Some visitors will want to work on building a healthier lifestyle, whilst others will just enjoy the superb facilities and the great location. 21
Asia & Far East News
Special Occasions
Grace Beijing A sanctuary for art lovers
Ananda in the Himalayas The No.1 Spa in the World
Wildlife adventure and sensory delights at Karloof Spa in Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa
St Lucia named as leading Caribbean honeymoon destination
Grace Beijing lies in the heart of Beijing's famous 798 Art District, the thriving cultural centre that is one of the city's leading tourist attractions as well as a focal point for the world's fashion and art community.
Multi award-winning Ananda - In the Himalayas (www.anandaspa.com) has once again been recognised as one of the world’s BEST destination spas by the Condé Nast Reader’s Travel Awards.
Grace Beijing has 30 luxury rooms each with its own unique contemporary decor. The hotel restaurant, 'Yi House', offers modern Mediterranean and Asian cuisine and has a superb wine cellar. This district of Beijing is the perfect environment in which to introduce the charm and understated elegance that epitomises the Grace design-philosophy.
Earlier in 2012 Ananda was also voted ‘Number One Spa in the World’ and ‘Best Overseas Spa Retreat’ at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Spa Awards. It was awarded top marks for its ambience and design, body treatments and individual approach.
Nestled away in a deep green blanket of forest & African Bush lies a destination of unique excellence. Indulge in the Big 5, sensory delights of Touch, Taste, Smell, Sight and Sound. For honeymooners looking to escape into a private world of timeless romance, Karkloof Spa calls (remember to ask for Villa 10!). Enjoy an unparalleled pampering experience of unlimited spa treatments during your stay as well as meals & game drives at your own pace - no set times to interfere with your special occasion. Begin your life's journey together by escaping to an eden where the mind, body & soul are revived.
St Lucia was named as the Caribbean's Leading Honeymoon Destination at the recent World Travel Awards 2012, the equivalent of the Oscars in the travel industry. This should come as no surprise for the island is famous for its dramatic landscapes, wonderful array of unspoilt beaches and crystal clear waters as well as a substantial selection of dreamy resorts ideal for newlyweds.
The hotel offers the perfect city escape for anyone on business or vacation looking for international standards of luxury and service.
Traditional Thai hospitality in an idyllic tropical setting with beautiful beaches Located on privately owned estates by the beaches of the Andaman Sea, lie two exclusive holiday destinations of unique opulence. Maikhao Dream Villa Resort & Spa, Phuket and Maikhao Dream Resort & Spa, Natai are carefully designed holiday getaways for discerning families to relax in style and for couples looking for somewhere private for a romantic interlude. Each resort offers tailor-made dining options, leisure activities and spa pampering to suit all ages and preferences complemented by warm, gracious Thai butler service to make you feel right at home.
Ananda in the Himalayas is a luxury destination spa located in the foothills of the Himalayas in India. It is a retreat dedicated to restoring balance and harmonizing energy through a holistic approach.
Maikhao Dream Villa Resort & Spa, Phuket
Maikhao Dream Resort & Spa, Natai
When going on holiday there is no need to pack a suitcase full of baby essentials; With The little Concierge Company, everything your baby could possibly need will be waiting for you at your holiday destination. As a special offer for clients of Full Circle Travel, quote FCT10 at the checkout for a 10% discount. www.thelittleconcierge.co.uk
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(Image: Courtesy of Jade Mountain)
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