The Insider's Club: June

The most complete GUIDE to the INSIDE

The Insider’s Club Hot Spot of the Month

June 2016

Jamaica

+ Things to Know About Where to Go

Featured Experience

Family Memories Exclusive Virtuoso

World Travel Experiences Tech News

Travel Technology

Choose Your News Explore: Jamaica 4-9 What To Do While You Are There 10-17 Where To Stay 18-21 Featured Experience: Family Memories 22-23 Exclusive Virtuoso World Travel Experiences 24-35 Tech News: Travel Technology 36-37

A WORD FROM YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR

Dear Fellow Travelers & Adventurers, In this month’s newsletter we are featuring Jamaica as well as our monthly tech news, travel tips, things and places to see in our hot spot, and exclusive travel deals from around the world. As always we welcome any suggestions you may have for this newsletter.

Please let us know if there is a specific location, hotel, restaurant, excursion, etc. you would like us to feature.

Thank you for your business and the opportunity to collaborate on your travel dreams.

I look forward to arranging your next great adventure.

-M

Explore: Jamaica

Jamaica, An Original Jet-Set Hideaway, Gets Its Mojo Back

By David Hochman Even for the author behind Agent 007, Jamaica wasn’t all swaying palms and shaken martinis. On his first visit to the island as a debonair British naval officer in July 1943, Ian Fleming cursed the “endless hairpin bends,” the “unaccustomed” flavors, and how it “rained in rods” every day at noon. In short, Jamaica was his brand of paradise –fabulously exotic and anything but dull. Flying out of Kingston that summer, Fleming turned to his seatmate and vowed, “When we have won this blasted war, I am going to live in Jamaica … and lap it up, and swim in the sea and write books.”

That he did. The spot on the northeast shore 20 minutes east of Ocho Rios called GoldenEye, where Fleming built a cliffside bungalow in 1946, inspired him to write all 14 James Bond novels in as many years and continues to hold visitors in its laser-like thrall.

Island Records founder and entrepreneur Chris Blackwell, the producer behind performers such as Bob Marley and U2, purchased the estate in 1976 as a hideaway for his family and VIP friends; five years ago he opened it to the world as GoldenEye. The five bedroom Fleming Villa still has killer views, as well as the author’s red bulletwood writing desk. But now it’s joined on 52 acres by 18 spacious villas and cottages with custom Balinese beds, retro-chic kitchen appliances, and flat screens big enough to stun Dr. No. The eco-friendly resort’s nursery has raised thousands of plants and trees for use in its landscaping and the local community, and its work helping to establish a no-fishing zone has notably increased fish stocks and coral coverage in the surrounding waters. A soundtrack curated by Blackwell plays in The Gazebo restaurant, and his celebrated Blackwell rum pours freely in the oceanfront bar.

Fleming would be pleased. Jamaica is once again emerging as a place for stylish travelers to dive right in. From bustling Montego Bay in the northwest, where most international travelers arrive, to the sleepier beach coves of Saint Mary Parish in the northeast, and on into the rugged interior, a new wave of sophistication is bringing back glamour and polish to the land of the all-inclusive resort. It’s time to fall in love with Jamaica all over again. It’s not for everyone: The island is funky and unique, but the weather’s great, the water’s gorgeous, and the service and amenities, particularly on the high end, rival anything you’ll find elsewhere in the Caribbean.

I certainly have no complaints at GoldenEye, where my wife and I kick off our island discovery with the help of Virtuoso’s on-site Jamaica contact. It’s already a trip for the books. Arriving at the resort’s outdoor Bizot Bar our first night, we join a cosmopolitan cocktail party, albeit a barefoot one, in full swing. A young London philanthropist is telling a gregarious Texas money manager and an Australian actor we recognize about a turtle sanctuary a few sandy inlets down from the hotel. Soon enough, we’re all clinking Red Stripes and plotting a group outing for the next morning. It turns out to be a life-affirming excursion. As our little gang watches, a volunteer naturalist delicately digs out a hawksbill sea turtle nest and counts 83 tiny creatures wiggling up from the sand. He has us form two lines to protect the little waddlers from flying predators while they run to the sea. These amphibians are known to migrate great distances and will likely swim from here to Cuba, Florida, North Carolina, and beyond.

You can practically track their entire course – as we attempt to do one afternoon from nearby Firefly Estate, the mountaintop historic house run by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust. Playwright and raconteur Noël Coward spent his final years here – lively ones, judging from candid photos of a young Alec Guinness dressed as Lawrence of Arabia on a pool floaty. Firefly’s dining room table remains set the way it was when Britain’s Queen Mum stopped by for lunch in 1965. Out back, you can sit and admire the crashing surf just as Sophia Loren loved to do. But it’s the view to the opposite side, with those misty green mountains beckoning, that captivates me.

The next day, we set out to explore them, driving west to the cruise port of Falmouth before taking a hard left into the jungle. Called Cockpit Country because of its humid and cramped terrain that reminded British officers of warships’ lower decks, this was once a nearly impenetrable region where Jamaican slaves, known as Maroons, escaped to live free among its limestone sinkholes during colonial rule. Today it’s increasingly popular with tourists. Our first stop is Good Hope Estate, a vast eighteenth-century Georgian-style plantation made rich from the sugar trade. Now it’s an adventure park, with zip lines, tubing on the sparkling Martha Brae River, and a colonial village.

The crowds thin out from there. Pushing south into Jamaica’s great green center, there’s little more to distract us from the jungle’s vines and guava and custard-apple trees than a couple of jerk chicken shacks and a few skinny donkeys. Funny to think that some of music’s biggest acts traveled this lonesome road: Bono, Grace Jones, and Bob Marley’s family have all frequented Pantrepant, Blackwell’s secluded countryside retreat, the entrance to which is marked only by a battered sign that reads “Private Property.” Last fall, for the first time since purchasing the 2,500-acre cattle estate 25 years ago, Blackwell began letting one privileged party at a time overnight in his two-bedroom guest cottage there as part of a new service at GoldenEye. The rock-star experience starts with a swim in what used to be a stone reservoir for molasses. Afterward, with thunderheads gathering, Blackwell’s longtime cook, Mama J, prepares us a feast: chicken and beef from the farm, salads as local and organic as they come (Blackwell sources the food for his island resorts almost exclusively from the gardens here). Homemade coffee ice cream with a Blue Mountain coffee pour-over makes for a fine affogato just as the rains arrive.

Roughly the size of Connecticut, Jamaica is easy enough to navigate. Even when you’re covering “long” distances, most destinations are no more than two or three hours apart. If you prefer relaxed sightseeing to white-knuckle navigating, leave the motoring to professional chauffeurs; drive on the left is the rule of the road, and the hairpins can get quite hairy.

From Pantrepant we head a few hundred twists south to lush Saint Elizabeth Parish, which still feels untraveled in a Caribbean fantasy sort of way. On isolated Treasure Beach, painted wooden boats wait to ferry you to the offshore Floyd’s Pelican Bar, a breezy, thatch-roofed cantina on stilts where the Red Stripe somehow tastes better and colder than anyplace else. Nearby, the YS Falls cascade down seven tiers of cliffs, with boardwalk pathways for easy climbing between their natural pools and guides on hand for those willing to brave rope swings that go from big to bigger to “Dude, get your GoPro!” It’s a straight shot from there to Appleton Estate, one of Jamaica’s oldest rum distilleries. After the fun and informative factory tour, we get a chance to sample five rums, which, come to think of it, may be the best reason of all to hire that driver.

The more you do in Jamaica, the less you want to do. The “ya, mon” spirit makes you kick back like that. There’s no place better to accomplish very little than at 30-acre Round Hill Hotel and Villas, home base for the end of our trip and a longtime haven for the jet set and the beautiful. Oscar Hammerstein was Villa 12’s original owner and worked on The Sound of Music there. Paul McCartney takes Villa 17 and a handful of others for his family holidays. Heidi Klum is practically a fixture on the beach. A decade ago, Ralph Lauren remodeled the 36-room hotel with an eye toward preserving the cottage colony vibe, and today it feels like a tropical village – for the very, very important. Though it would be impolite to name names, we share the view on our last morning at breakfast with a world-renowned architect, an Oscar-winning director, and one of the Caribbean’s most distinguished families. It’s easy to imagine a certain British Secret Intelligence Service agent fitting right in.

Jamaica

What to do while your there

Canopy Tour in Ocho Rios Mystic Mountain Rainforest Adventures, one of the top attractions in Jamaica, offers an exciting zip line excursion. Located in Ocho Rios, visitors soar through the rainforest canopy and glide from platform to platform while taking in the breathtaking views of Dunn’s River Falls.

Don’t forget to check out the latest Virtuoso Life!

Visit the Blue Hole Blue Hole Jamaica, otherwise known as the Irie Blue Hole or the Secret Falls, is located in the hills of Jamaica about 20 minutes from the town of Ocho Rios. Visitors can swim, jump or if they are feeling adventurous swing into the turquoise water below. A separate section of the Blue Hole boasts a 20-foot waterfall accessible via a 7 minute walk from the main hole.

7 Mile Beach Negril’s Seven-Mile Beach has been voted many times over as one of the best beaches in the world. Legendary for its dramatic sunsets, silky white sand, and clear turquoise waters it is easy to see why. Sheltered by one of the Caribbean’s great reefs, Negril Bay is always tranquil. The absence of high tides allows the entire protected beachfront to be nearly level with the gently lapping waters, creating a seamless entry from sand to sea. Plan your visit around one of the weekly beach parties and enjoy a variety of Caribbean food, music and live entertainment.

Rick’s Cafe Rick’s Cafe was the first public bar and restaurant of its type on the West End Cliffs. Rick’s Cafe boasts an unrivaled view of the sunset from its naturally formed cliffs. Over the years, visitors and locals alike have designated Rick’s Cafe as Negril’s premier gathering spot to watch locals and tourists jump from the cliffs and enjoy a drink while enjoying the sunset.

Dunn’s River Falls Party Cruise Enjoy the welcoming Jamaican party atmosphere on board a catamarån party cruise. Journey along the beautiful Jamaican coastline, soak up some sun and sip a rum punch during the 25-minute ride to the famous Dunns River Falls. Climb the 600-foot waterfall, go snorkeling or simply relax on the beach and soak up some rays.

Hooves - Guided tours on horseback A combination of history and fun, embark on a guided horseback tour through one of the most important historical sites in Jamaica. Learn about the history of Jamaica as you ride along a collection of 16thcentury monuments leading to a private beach where you and your horse journey into the sea for an exciting one of a kind experience.

Golf Jamaica is home to some of the finest golf courses and resorts in the Caribbean. With the emerald ocean waters or tropical jungle as your backdrop, there are a dozen or so championship golf courses to choose from. Whether you are a beginner or expert golfer, Jamaica has the right course for your skill level.

Deep Sea Fishing In Jamaica fishing is appropriately known as catching. Take an actionpacked four or eight-hour adventure with one of the many deep sea charters for a chance to catch a variety of fish including snapper, grouper, wahoo, mahi-mahi, sail fish, tuna and more. Many charters work with dockside restaurants where you can enjoy your fresh catch for dinner.

Jamaica

Where you should stay

Jamaica Inn: Ocho Rios For more than 50 years, Jamaica Inn has been ranked among the Caribbean’s top destination hotels, especially as an ideal location for honeymooners. You’ll realize why as soon as you arrive at this intimate enclave of just 52 suites, all of which overlook the beach or the sea. Each suite boasts a private balcony or spacious veranda, air conditioning, ceiling fans and cool ocean breezes wafting through louvered shutters. When you aren’t enjoying what many consider to be Jamaica’s finest beach, take time to indulge at the Ocean Spa, which is set atop coral cliffs and offers treatments inspired by the island’s native plants.

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GoldenEye Hotel And Resort: St. Mary, Jamaica At GoldenEye, you can expect a sophisticated adventure worthy of James Bond — it was here, after all, that Ian Fleming dreamed up his famous character. Today, this 52-acre hideaway features 28 airy rooms dispersed among 19 villas and cottages, each adorned with custom furnishings, deep-soaking clawfoot tubs and high-end sound systems.

Kayak or swim to the open-air spa for a salt scrub or meditation session, then head to the treehouse-style Gazebo for grilled lobster tail and glorious sunsets. Excursions include everything from sunrise fishing to twilight yoga, garden walks to Jet Ski safaris. The Bizot Bar serves Jamiacan beach bar cuisine.

Round Hill Hotel & Villas: Montego Bay, Jamaica At the elegantly understated Round Hill Hotel and Villas, mornings begin with breakfast and Blue Mountain coffee in bed, delivered by your cottage housekeeper. The lazy hours ahead may include a massage at the oceanfront spa, learning to windsurf in the resort’s protected waters or strolling through the 100 acres of lush tropical gardens. Later, dine on local cuisine by the award-winning chef in the fabulous Grill Restaurant. Choose from 36 oceanfront rooms that overlook the sea or the infinity swimming pool, a magnificent villa suite or one of the 26 private villas.

Half Moon, A RockResort: Montego Bay, Jamaica Known as the quintessential Caribbean resort, the exceedingly stylish Half Moon welcomes couples and families alike to its haven of barefoot elegance. You’ll quickly understand why so many guests return here each year. Families are particularly happy, thanks to the ample activities for children (including the Dolphin Lagoon experience) and spacious accommodations. Beyond swimming with dolphins, there’s golf on the Robert Trent Jones Sr.–designed course, horseback riding, tennis, shopping, scuba diving, snorkeling and luscious treatments at Fern Tree, A RockResorts Spa, with its outdoor soaking tubs and walking labyrinth.

Featured Experience: Family Memories

Family Memories: Round Hill Hotel & Villas Valid for travel through December 17th, 2016 Create family memories that will last a lifetime. Round Hill has long been the resort of choice for families wishing to spend quality time together but with the option of specially crafted activities for children and parents alike. Book a private villa for a minimum of 5 nights and your family will spend an afternoon touring the organic vegetable garden with the chef plus a cooking lesson at your villa as you prepare your own sumptuous lunch.

Whats Included: • A cooking lesson and lunch at your villa • • A private tour of the organic vegetable garden with the chef to harvest your ingredients.

• • 10% discount on the villa rate • • Personalized recipe card • • Keepsake Round Hill aprons • • Photo op with the chef • • Breakfast daily prepared by your personal villa staff • • Supervised activities at the Pineapple Kids Club

Exclusive Virtuoso

World Travel Experiences

Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort Phoenix, AZ United States

Valid for travel now through September 4th, 2016

Experience Includes: Stay 3 nights and receive the 4th night complimentary Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability Daily full breakfast, for up to two in room guests $100 USD Equivalent Food & Beverage credit Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

Exclusive Virtuoso

World Travel Experiences

Las Alamandas Resort Costalegre, Mexico

Valid for travel now through December 18th 2016

Experience Includes: Stay 3 nights and receive the 4th night complimentary Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability Continental breakfast daily, for up to two in room guests $100 USD Equivalent Resort or Hotel credit Welcome Margaritas upon arrival Welcome bottle of wine Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

Exclusive Virtuoso

World Travel Experiences

Bulgari Hotels & Resorts Bali Uluwatu, Indonesia

Valid for travel now through December 20th 2016

Experience Includes: Stay 2 nights and receive the 3rd night complimentary Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability Daily full breakfast, for up to two in room guests $100 USD Equivalent Hotel or Resort credit Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

Exclusive Virtuoso

World Travel Experiences

Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach Miami Beach, FL

Valid for travel now through September 30th, 2016

Experience Includes: Stay 3 nights and receive the 4th night complimentary Daily buffet breakfast for two by Il Mulino New York served in AQ $100 ESPA Spa Credit (only applicable for body or facial treatments) Early check-in subject to availability Late check-out subject to availability A welcome fruit amenity One category upgrade upon arrival subject to availability Complimentary Internet access

Exclusive Virtuoso

World Travel Experiences

Alila Villas Uluwatu Bali, Indonesia

Valid for travel now through October 31st 2016

Experience Includes: Pay for six nights, stay for nine!

Daily continental breakfast for two $100 food and beverage credit per stay Early check-in and late checkout, if available

Exclusive Virtuoso

World Travel Experiences

Belmond La Samanna Baie Longue, Saint Martin

Valid for travel now through December 22nd, 2016

Experience Includes: Stay 3 nights and receive the 4th night complimentary Automatic upgrade on arriva Daily Buffet breakfast, for up to two in room guests A complimentary lunch for up to two people once during stay, excluding alcohol, taxes and gratuities Fruit basket in the room Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

Tech News: Travel Technology

Stance Compact Tripod Stance is an amazingly versatile, compact tripod that mounts directly into your iPhone’s charging port. Watching your favorite videos, using FaceTime to make your friends jealous on vacation, and positioning your phone’s camera to capture amazing travel photos and videos has never been easier.

TO LEARN MORE OR TO ORDER CLICK ON PRODUCT IMAGE

Brookstone Virtual Keyboard This virtual keyboard transforms a flat surface into an instant work station. So you can type up a storm any time you want no matter where you are.

Skyroll Carry-On Garment Bag Roll your suits in this compact, carry–on garment bag. compact shape that is easy to carry. Fewer wrinkles and Say goodbye to checked bag fees.

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