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Welcome...
Welcome to the latest issue of our regular travel magazine where we hope to stimulate your travel taste buds with a varied selection of worldwide holiday ideas and destinations to treat yourself, partner, family or a group of friends to a well-earned break.
this issue will not disappoint those looking for an escape to the sun as we head both west to the Caribbean and east to The Maldives. We also travel down to South Africa for an excellent combination of Safari and Winelands gastronomy in the company of Sir Richard Branson.
It is always refreshing to be able to feature new places and it is with great pleasure that we showcase the newly opened Regent Porto Montenegro. Similarly, D-Hotel Maris is a relative newcomer, but following many reviews from happy guests this summer, it is sure to be one of the hot shots for 2015. The location on the Datca Peninsula is simply stunning.
Finally, in keeping with our regular look at the world of luxury cruising, we embark on a tour of luxury hotel barge cruising, as featured in Rick Stein’s “French Odyssey” BBC television series. We also review the forthcoming introduction in 2015 of the new Suite Class on Celebrity Cruises.
In this issue we conclude our two-part spotlight on the “Golden State” of California looking at the Northern circuit working around the sights starting in San Francisco and ending up at one with nature in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Whether you are looking for a “trip of a lifetime”, a beach getaway, a luxury city break or just news on some of the world’s finest hotels and resorts we are sure this issue will inspire you, so sit back, have a read, then give us a call to discuss your travel plans
Of course, no issue would be complete without some reference to tropical climes and we hope
ETON 104 -105 High Street Eton, Windsor Berkshire SL4 6AF
Published by Travelspeak Limited - 020 8944 6050 - www.travelspeak.co.uk
Issue 2, 2014
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WOKINGHAM 10 - 12 Denmark Street Wokingham Berkshire RG40 2BB
Tel: 01753 671747
Tel: 0118 979 2555
E-mail: leisure@eton-travel.co.uk
E-mail: w.leisure@eton-travel.co.uk
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Travel News
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Winelands & Waterholes
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On the Waterfront
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No Shoes & No News
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Luxury Hotel Barge Cruising
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Golden Prospects - Northern California
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Turkish Delight
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Bajan Flavours at Cobblers Cove
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Suite Dreams
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Blackwell’s Jamaica
Travel News Celebrating 25 glorious years at Hostellerie Crillon Le Brave
All aboard The Ritz-Carlton, Abama train
Perched on a hilltop in the middle of a picturesque valley in the Vaucluse region of Provence, near Mont Ventoux, lies the charming medieval hamlet of Crillon le Brave, one of France’s hidden jewels.
A new 40-seater train offers guests transport around the resort’s grounds enabling swift access from the main hotel lobby to its secluded beach via a scheduled itinerary of stops. Running daily, the train operates round trips between 09.15 hrs and 20.00 hrs while outside of the schedule, the resort's team will be on hand to meet and drop off guests via one of the resort’s fleet of four-seater eco-buggies.
25 years ago, two enterprising Canadians, began a fascinating project, when they renovated a third of the village into a 32bedroom 5 star boutique hotel spread across seven medieval houses, accessed via bridges, hidden courtyards cobbled alleys and a terraced Italian garden. Further enhancements followed with the arrival in 2006 by Robin Hutson, the founder of Hotel du Vin. Today, Hostellerie Crillon Le Brave is a gourmet haven and a proud member of Relais & Chateaux. www.crillonlebrave.com
The Ritz-Carlton, Abama in Tenerife is the perfect year -round location for a luxury family holiday, or couples getaway, offering a selection of one and two bedrooms suites and newly furbished deluxe rooms in the Citadel all with a private balcony or terrace and, more often than not, a perfect sea view out towards La Gomera.
Hotel style breaks at The Lodge, Verbier With arguably the best ski runs in the world, Sir Richard Branson's luxury chalet is a dream winter wonderland escape. Experience the ultimate catered chalet and its legendary all-inclusive services. For most of the winter ski season The Lodge at Verbier can only be booked in its entirety, but selected weeks have been selected for 2014/2015 to open the chalet to individual room bookings. For instance, early birds can book 3,4 and 7-night stays between 10th December and 21st December 2014. Rates on request.
The Canny Traveller ...why carry cash abroad - use a currency card! There is no doubt that some cash in your wallet is a useful back-up, but carrying large quantities of foreign currency is just asking for trouble. However, using your UK bank or credit cards abroad, whilst convenient, will only end up in poor exchange rates and excessive charges. A good solution is to load sufficient funds onto a pre-paid currency card with the added advantages of very competitive exchange rates when transferring funds and no usage fees for purchases. For instance, Fair FX, one of the UK market leaders, provides US Dollar & Euro pre-paid cards with the facility to load money from Sterling accounts at exchange rates that beat the high street banks, the Post Office and bureaus like Travelex by very significant margins. www.fairfx.com
On the Waterfront Stylish hospitality at the Regent Porto Montenegro
et against the backdrop of one of the world's most famous super-yacht marinas, the newly opened Regent Porto Montenegro has become the latest addition to the Regent Hotels & Resorts collection. Situated on the shoreline of the Adriatic and overlooking Boka Bay (Bay of Kotor), the hotel offers each of its guests a unique experience of luxury and beauty in one of Montenegro's most captivating harbours.
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The traditional exterior of the five storey building borrows from classic Mediterranean architecture, with its terracotta roof, as well as from the styles found in the quintessential Italian palazzi that have lined the coast since the start of the Venetian rule in the 15th century. The sumptuous interior takes inspiration from both Renaissance Venice and also the nautical setting to create the elegant surroundings. Most of the 51 rooms and 35 suites are accompanied by a spacious balcony that allows the guests to enjoy the vistas of either Boka Bay or the famous mountains of Montenegro. The hotel also offers a varied selection of different dining and drinking options to suit all types of guest. The Dining Room is at the heart of this, with its graceful dĂŠcor, French windows and plush velvet seating. The menu uses seasonal and local Mediterranean produce to create a series of dishes 4
that combine the traditional tastes of the Adriatic regions with the occasional hint of Asian cuisine. For those with a sweeter tooth, The Gourmet Corner is at hand with its selection of classic sweet and savoury treats, including chocolate truffles, pastries and pizza fresh from the oven. The Regent Porto Montenegro is also the ideal location for an evening drink or afternoon tea. The Library Bar in particular features an open fireplace for guests to enjoy in winter months in addition to a west-facing terrace, the perfect location to view the spectacular sunsets over the marina. For guests seeking a more private venue, the Italian Garden is the perfect getaway. Situated on a private island, the open-air setting provides wonderful views of the bay whilst dining or having drinks. The amenities of the hotel include a 20-metre outdoor infinity pool, 15-metre indoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and, of course, a Regent Spa which features a Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, hammam and fresh juice bar. The Regent Porto Montenegro is located in the town of Tivat and can be reached through the local international airport or those found in Podgorica or just over the border in Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Montenegro, Wild Beauty Montenegro is a small country with a big punch. Since gaining independence from neighbouring Serbia in 2006, this tiny Balkan Republic has made great strides to establish itself as a yearround, quality tourist destination offering a stunning landscape of soaring mountains, Europe’s most southerly fjord and an idyllic 293 km stretch of long beaches and craggy coves bordering the warm, blue waters of the Adriatic. It is no wonder that Montenegro has witnessed a flood of investment and a rush to buy property. Along the meandering shoreline of Boka Bay there are several historic lakeside towns with beautifully preserved medieval stone buildings that reflect the rich architecture of the Renaissance republic of Venice, who governed the coastal regions until 1797. Today, the most popular towns of Budva and Kotor have a contemporary-chic atmosphere, with a burgeoning supply of good restaurants and lively bars. Travel into the hinterland of Montenegro and the drama of nature intensifies. There are 5 national parks, culminating in the striking alpine spaces of the spectacular Durmitor National Park where you can hike though unspoilt pastureland, ski past 2000-metre-plus peaks, or raft through the colossal Tara Canyon.
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Luxury Hotel Barge Cruising A truly unique experience with European Waterways hat is hotel barging? Despite the growing popularity of cruising, particularly on river boats, this is still a little known niche concept within the vast cruise industry. Maybe the term “barging” deters interest, conjuring up images of narrowboats or coal lighters. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth.
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Most hotel barges started life as cargo vessels but have since been painstakingly converted to offer luxury boutique accommodation for small groups of up to 20 passengers. This is cruising, but in a very different style to ships plying the big rivers or oceans. The pace is slow, with a 6-day cruise often covering little more than 50 miles along a rural canal. Passengers can walk or bike the towpaths and never be left behind as their floating hotel glides gently along. The idea is to offer guests full immersion into the culture, history and gastronomy of one of a number of fascinating regions of Europe such as Burgundy, the Midi, Alsace, or the Italian Veneto. Every day, when not cruising, a crew member leads an excursion, perhaps to a vineyard for a wine tasting, a market where the chef might buy fresh, local ingredients for the evening meal or a visit to a unique “off the beaten track” location that you would never find on your own. These could be to still-inhabited 6
troglodyte cave dwellings, a private chateau or to see an olive oil press at work and sample its produce. Surprisingly for such a largely unknown travel concept, the leading hotel barging company, European Waterways, has been offering its exclusive floating hotels for nearly 40 years. There are 18 vessels in the fleet, the best known of which is Anjodi, star of Rick Stein’s award winning BBC TV series “French Odyssey”, transporting him along the Canal du Midi on a voyage of culinary discovery. Other hotel barges offer the same intimate atmosphere, all with high levels of personal service and access to the tranquillity of smaller waterways which larger vessels cannot reach. About half of European Waterways’ bookings are for whole boat charters. The small passenger capacity offers a unique opportunity for groups of friends or family to enjoy their own bespoke private cruise. Otherwise, clients book a cabin to join the floating house party, hosted by the Captain and pampered by the chef and the rest of the crew. Whether you fancy a soak in the on-deck spa-pool, a game of boules on the bank or just to sit and watch the sun go down over the countryside with cocktail in hand, a “slow boat” European Waterways barge cruise offers the ultimate in experiential travel.
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Turkish Delight A hidden gem in the heart of the Datca Peninsula nce in a while you get really lucky in the search for the ideal, luxury Mediterranean resort. At D-Hotel Maris all the constituent elements are supremely delivered. For a start the resort occupies a very secluded cove within a vast, untouched nature reserve on the starkly beautiful Datca Peninsula. The surrounding volcanic mountains offer a splendid panorama that juxtaposes vividly with the crystal clear waters of the Aegean.
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What takes this luxury resort into superstar status is the ingenious skill with which the Dogus Group, faced with complete restrictions on re-development of the exterior facade, have transformed the existing property into a beautifully designed space fusing Turkey’s exotic charm with modern minimalistic glamour. The hotel boasts 200 rooms and suites as well as a standalone VIP villa. All are finished with richly hued woods, subtle chrome accents and elegant marble surfaces, and come complete with WiFi, iPhone docks and touchscreen control panels. Most of the rooms and suites have private balconies and a bathtub with a view whilst the villa, which can sleep 4 guests, enhances the superlative hotel experience with 24-hour butler service, a private pool, hamman and sauna. 8
Extensive outside spaces guarantee that all guests will never feel crowded, whether relaxing at the edge of the vast infinity pool or at any one of the hotel's five Blue Flag beaches dotted around the bay, each lined with glorious white sand (imported from Egypt each year!), picturesque palms and luxurious beach beds. This includes an exclusive beach dedicated to Executive Club Lounge guests whilst Serenity Beach is for those who want just that - life without distractions especially mobile phones. For a wide range of water activities head to Coliseum Beach. D-Hotel Maris provides excellent equipment and trainers, and the calm, private bay makes it the perfect place to try diving, catamaran sailing, water skiing and wake boarding. For the ultimate waterborne indulgence you can even charter D-Hotel Maris' beautiful custom-made 100-foot yacht Pasa or their 55-foot Azimut day cruiser. Land based activities include bike rides, tennis classes and mountain treks. There is a cornucopia of culinary delights at D-Hotel Maris, with six restaurants and four bars that each pair flawless menus with exquisite settings. A buffet breakfast of both international and Turkish dishes (including the region's famous local almonds and
honeycomb) is served every morning in the Terrace, with unrivalled views across the bay. The Breeze serves Aegean and Mediterranean dishes of fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients, while over on Bay Beach you'll find Nusr-Et, which boasts a menu of the finest steaks and meat cuts from Istanbul. For a change of flavour, head to the new al-fresco Zuma. This popular venue showcases Zuma's award-winning restaurant, lounge and bar concept, based around the 'izakaya' style of shared eating and drinking with three kitchens including a robata grill and sushi counter. D-Hotel Maris completes its perfect luxury Mediterranean resort qualification with comprehensive wellbeing and fitness facilities. The Espa spa is a haven of peace and relaxation and is home to an indoor pool, sauna, steam-room, relaxation area and wellequipped gym, alongside a menu of irresistible treatments that use the brand's award-winning products and are carried out by expertly trained therapists. In Summer 2014 the hotel was also home to the first Bodyism “Clean and Lean� residency in Europe. D-Hotel Maris is situated 130 km from Dalaman International Airport and 155 km from Bodrum International Airport. Private helicopter and sea plane transfers are available from both airports, bringing guests to the resort in just 25 minutes. British Airways is introducing a new, scheduled flight service between London Gatwick and Dalaman commencing 27th April 2015.
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Suite Dreams
Introducing the new Suite Class on Celebrity Cruises
tarting in April 2015, Celebrity Cruises are introducing a new Suite Class that is set to offer their most discerning suite guests the ultimate refinements, access to exclusive spaces and increased heights of indulgence.
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Those that have already sampled life in a Celebrity Cruises suite will be acquainted with their expansive, stylishly designed rooms featuring floor-to-ceiling windows. You will have enjoyed the services of your personal butler throughout your cruise and you will have noticed how you were always given priority with restaurant and theatre bookings.Let us not forget those additional in-suite perks like the complimentary welcome bottle of wine, 24-hour complimentary room service and Bvlgari luxury bath amenities as well as daily offerings of fresh flowers, fresh fruit platters and afternoon savoury selections. In addition to all this, with the new Suite Class, guests will get even more. The new Suite Class experience* includes a private restaurant reserved exclusively for all suite guests. Available morning, noon, and night, every meal features unique menus that offer sumptuous dishes not available anywhere else on board. You will savour dishes inspired by the local destinations and prepared with the world’s best ingredients ranging from locally caught seafood to the freshest pasta. Your Suite Class Chef can also provide tailor-made dining experiences to ensure your meals are
exactly as you like them. And, the Cellar Master (your head sommelier) will select from more than 450 wines to create the perfect pairing for any meal. And, as a suite guest, you have complete flexibility to dine wherever you choose: the main restaurant, in-suite for more intimate dinners, or in any of the speciality restaurants**. Enjoy 24-hour exclusive use of Michael’s Club VIP Lounge, complete with Personal Concierge who can arrange your dinner reservations, book Celebrity Shore Excursions, and even recommend restaurants in ports of call or arrange rental cars. Savour the complimentary cocktails served before dinner during daily “Happy Hour,” catch up on your reading with the wide selection of magazines, newspapers, and books, or just kick back and relax in this exclusive, private lounge. For Royal Suite guests and higher suite grades there is a new in-suite “all-in” service. In addition to the complimentary bottle of alcohol with mixers, guests will enjoy complimentary mini bar items including water, soda, and beer (stocked daily), not to mention your complimentary Premium Beverage Package that allows you to enjoy your favourite beverages, including wine and spirits, throughout the ship. Stay connected throughout your cruise holiday with unlimited Internet access. Suite dreams are certainly going to be even sweeter aboard Celebrity Cruises in 2015... www.celebritycruises.co.uk
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Images (clockwise from top left 1. Relaxing in the Jacuzzi, Penthouse Suite 2. Bedroom, Royal Suite 3. The Lawn Club, Celebrity Solstice 4. Back massage at Canyon Ranch Spa 5. Butler service 6. Bathroom, Reflections Suite * Services and amenities for suite guests vary by suite category. Suite Class experience excludes Celebrity Xpedition速 ** Complimentary reservations are provided to Royal, Penthouse, and Reflection Suite guests.
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Winelands & Sir Richard Branson’s new hotel (& vineyard) in the Cape Winelands ine wines and exceptional cuisine have established the town and valley of Franschhoek as the gastronomic capital of South Africa. Lying just 45 minutes from the centre of Cape Town, this beautiful valley allows easy access into the city whilst offering a distinctly more sedate environment to take in the open spaces of this inspiring locality.
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Situated on a hilltop, overlooking the quaint town of Franschhoek and affording spectacular views of the entire valley and surrounding mountains, Mont Rochelle Hotel and Vineyards is one of the valley’s most notable estates, with a history dating back to the late 17th century. It has also become the latest acquisition into the eclectic portfolio of worldwide luxury retreats of Virgin Limited Edition and reflects Sir Richard Branson’s own keen interest in both promoting wine and gastronomy tourism in Franschhoek as well as offering an ideal extension for guests visiting Ulusaba
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Private Game Reserve in Sabi Sand, which lies on the fringes of the Kruger National Park. The stunning 22-bedroom hotel has recently reopened after an intensive period of refurbishment and offers a range of accommodation including six suites, the finest of which are the Cap Classique Suites with separate lounge area, private terrace, private plunge pool and of course, stunning views across the valley. A stay at Mont Rochelle promises a true slice of the classic Cape Winelands lifestyle. Days can be spent exploring the estate, indulging in private wine tastings, taking a picnic in the vineyards or perhaps just relaxing by the side of the heated outdoor pool. For the more energetic-minded one might test the equipment of the hotel’s gym before surrendering to an indulgent massage at the spa.
Waterholes is the perfect South African duet with Ulusaba Private Game Reserve There are also plenty of options for dining at Mont Rochelle, from picnics in the great outdoors to relaxed lunches in the wine cellar kitchen, perfect for a light lunch in the sunshine or a relaxed dinner. The main restaurant, Miko, is the gastronomic heart of the hotel, and will be the stage for evenings of superlative cuisine, perhaps after relaxing with drinks in hand on the terrace to watch the sun set across this magnificent valley. Now imagine a new and perfectly contrasting landscape of the wild bushlands of Sabi Sand as found at Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, a magical wonderland in one of the world’s most prolific wildlife sanctuaries. The thrills of twice daily safari game drives (as well as walks) is complimented by a variety of magnificent accommodation, giving guests the choice of two separate lodges (and habitat). Rock Lodge clings to the upper reaches of a sentinel hillock (Koppie) that dominates the surroundings. From its many terraces you
literally look down and out over the forests and bushland to the distant horizon of the Drakensberg Mountains. Alternatively, guests can stay in the thick of it at Safari Lodge, located beneath a canopy of ancient trees on the edge of a dry riverbed. Guests will love the sense of adventure as they cross rope bridges between tree house style rooms, with local wildlife passing by. Whatever one’s particular habitat, (some guests stay at both lodges), Ulusaba offers one of the most refined wildlife adventures with the promise of the hospitality and facilities that Virgin Limited Edition is famous for. The difficult question now is not whether to visit both Mont Rochelle and Ulusaba, but in which order! It is a compelling duet that shows off the best of South Africa. Transfers between Mont Rochelle and Ulusaba involve a flight of 2 hours between Cape Town and Johannesburg followed by a light aircraft transfer of 1 hour and 20 minutes directly to the private airstrip at Ulusaba.
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No News & No Shoes Out of touch with the help of Mr & Ms Friday at Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives
hen you arrive at the idyllic private island resort of Gili Lankanfushi, you will be met in person by the general manager, whose principal duty will be to confiscate your shoes in exchange for the services of your personal butler, “Mr” or “Ms” Friday, who will assist, at the press of a “red” button on your villa phone with your every Crusoe whim during your stay until the sad moment of your departure.
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Welcome indeed to a very special, and undeniably romantic, barefoot Maldives holiday experience. Gili Lankanfushi (formerly Soneva Gili) was the first all over-water villa resort in the Maldives and continues to lead the way with its palatial villas-on-stilts. There are a total of 45 villas. All are crafted in a traditional style from natural materials and offer roof-top and over-water sundecks, featuring open air bathrooms, luxurious daybeds and a personal entertainment centre. Some of the villas at Gili Lankanfushi are accessed by walkways and for the ultimate privacy others can only be accessed by personal boat. Gili Lankanfushi has a casual atmosphere, the food is superb and of course, nothing is too much trouble for your personal Mr or Ms Friday!
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The interior decoration has been devised to recreate a natural habitat, using sustainable woods, natural materials and traditional fabrics, whilst still offering all the modern day amenities and creature comforts of true luxury. At Gili Lankanfushi the utmost care has been taken in developing the island with respect to its ecological balance. Dining options include several restaurants, but can also include a romantic, moonlit dinner on the deck of your villa, a sunset champagne cruise on a traditional dhoni, or dinners in the underground Gourmet Cellar - the settings are as memorable as the cuisine. From the fine wines to the excellent malts, Gili Lankanfushi has achieved a reputation for providing guests with unique dining experiences. Leaving just your footprints in the glorious white coral sands, snorkelling or diving in the crystal clear waters amid circling manta rays and playful dolphins, spending the day out on your own desert island, a hammock for two in a quiet spot, star gazing under the canopy of a clear night sky with no light pollution ...this is what escaping the rat race is all about... ...No News & No Shoes.
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Golden Prospects The “City on the Bay” and the great outdoors of Northern California
an Francisco Bay Area is regarded by many as the best place to experience world-class food and wine in North America. The region's culinary diversity, began with the California Gold Rush of 1849, when more than 300,000 people from all over the world migrated to Northern California to strike it rich. When the gold ran out, many of these immigrants remained, using their earnings to start small farms, dairy ranches, wineries, fisheries, and a myriad of restaurants that served family recipes from around the world.
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Present-day San Francisco offers a fascinating historical landscape that pays hommage both to the preservation of over 14,000 Victorian buildings in key districts that survived the ravages and fire damage of the 1906 earthquake as well as a more modern skyline of striking skyscrapers. Straddling the mouth of San Francisco Bay the unmistakeable sweep of the Golden Gate bridge connects the metropolis to the rugged northern shores of the bay, whilst the imposing prison island of Alcatraz, the world’s most famous monument to incarceration, once housed famous convicts like Al Capone and Robert “Birdman” Stroud who would have entertained elusive glimpses of freedom across dangerous waters to downtown San Francisco.
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Discovering Northern California
The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco A luxurious downtown San Francisco hotel that’s close to its heart Located in the heart of downtown, The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco is one of the finest San Francisco hotels to call Nob Hill home. Welcoming guests into a timeless escape of elegant luxury, this 1909 Neoclassical landmark has been transformed into a beautiful retreat of modern classic design. It is a gateway to iconic memories, enveloping guests in the sounds, flavours and imagery of San Francisco. Guests enter their guest rooms to the soft crooning of Tony Bennett leaving his heart behind. A mini Golden Gate Bridge model offers sweets for the taking. And the signature restaurant, Parallel 37, is named after the geographic latitude that runs through the Bay Area. Beyond the hotel’s doors, it is easy to explore the city’s spirited atmosphere and diverse cultural experiences as the historic cable car stops right outside.
The sights of the “City on the Bay” make for a perfect start to any trip to Northern California. There is an excellent concentration of galleries and museums within a relatively small urban footprint. It is also easy to navigate from one place to the next whether it be a tour of Chinatown, taking in the artistic vibes of Haight Ashbury, catching a traditional streetcar ride to Ferry Plaza and Fishermans Wharf or a walk through the Japanese Tea Garden of the immense Golden Gate Park. You will certainly be rewarded with many iconic sights, great gastronomy and a year round temperate climate that rarely falls below 40o fahrenheit. It does, however, have a famous microclimate,
when fog sweeps in, that can make temperatures drop sharply, especially in the summer. Locals tend to describe this as the city’s natural “air conditioner”. Exploring Northern California will appeal to those who have an appetite for rugged nature, open spaces and aweinspiring landscapes. To the north of San Francisco, within very easy driving distance, lie California’s premier winegrowing regions of Napa Valley and Sonoma County. For those who have been drawn by the gastronomic possibilities, The Wine Country will certainly be a heady highlight, with the opportunity to spend days discovering
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay An oceanfront resort with a cliff-top location that makes the most of California’s dramatic coastal scenery. Situated 23 miles southwest of the San Francisco International Airport, The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay provides a magnificent backdrop for the perfect holiday along the Northern California coast. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows by a terrace fire pit or relaxing on the bluff after a rejuvenating spa treatment, this resort offers a stunning destination for your next luxury getaway. Delight in delectable, innovative cuisine in the ocean-view restaurants, tee off on two championship golf courses or explore miles of walking trails in one of the most romantic settings in Northern California. With luxury accommodations, including rooms with full views over the Pacific Ocean, fitness facilities, indoor pool, world-class tennis and a wonderful spa, you will never be found wanting at this luxury resort.
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Discovering Northern California
Post Ranch Inn, Carmel Adult-only refinement on the edge of Big Sur
the many wineries and tasting the fruit of the vines. For the ultimate indulgence, why not stay close to the finest vineyards around Rutherford at the exclusive, Auberge du Soleil. In comparison to the open, sandy beaches of Southern California, the Northern coastline from Monterey County to the wildernesses of the far north is rocky and at times covered in great swathes of Redwood forests. Perhaps the best known stretch lies between the sleepy town of Carmel, 125 miles south of San Francisco, and San Simeon, 240 miles north of Los Angeles.
The Post Ranch Inn, located in Big Sur, California is simply heaven on earth. From its position above the cloud line, its easy to understand why. Known amongst the Hollywood elite as the ultimate weekend escape, Post Ranch Inn offers 39 secluded suites scattered along the cliff top., Post Ranch Inn is where you come to relax and reconnect with yourself, your partner and the environment. With this in mind, guestrooms do not include televisions or alarm clocks. This is also a grown-ups only getaway.
Auberge du Soleil, Napa Valley Gourmet delights amid the vineyards of Rutherford
Auberge du Soleil began life as a highly acclaimed restaurant. Today’s Auberge also includes 52 rooms and cottages as well as a superb 7,000 sq. ft spa and a glorious pavilion that overlooks Napa Valley. The rooms, suites and cottages have a Mediterranean design, complete with shuttered windows and Italian bed linen. The restaurant still retains its excellent reputation, and has been awarded the title of Napa's best restaurant. This, along with its location in prestigious wine country, makes the hotel a food lover’s dream.
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Known as Big Sur, the area is famous for the highly scenic 89-mile drive along Highway 1, which hugs a meandering and often precipitous coastline that rises and falls through many incredibly picturesque headlands and craggy bays. Whilst a popular touring destination, the area remains sparsely populated, in no small part due to the Santa Lucia Mountains, which rise steeply near the coast, marking one of the largest roadless areas near a coast in mainland USA (not including Alaska). For truly monumental natural vistas, the ultimate outdoor lifestyle awaits on the western flank of the State, where the vast Sierra Nevada mountain range extends 400 miles north-to-south. The Sierra is home to three national parks, 20 wilderness areas including Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America and Yosemite Valley sculpted by glaciers out of 100-million-year-old granite. At a surface elevation of 6,225 ft, Lake Tahoe is a hugely popular summer activity and winter sports destination. The surrounding mountains offer some of the best powder skiing playgrounds, whilst the freshwater lake itself is famed for the clarity of its waters and the mantle of alpine forests that cloak its banks.
Discovering Northern California
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe Legendary comforts on the northern lake shore The Lake Tahoe region is the perfect base for visitors looking for outdoor adventure. A ski paradise in winter and a hiking and nature lover's destination the rest of the year. The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe is the premier resort in the region and offers distinctive service, great food and large rooms with wonderful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Most of the rooms have their own fireplaces and balconies. The nearby village of Northstar can be reached by gondola and is packed with restaurants, bars and shopping.
The Ahwahnee Yosemite National Park Art Deco meets Native American
The Ahwahnee Lodge is in the heart of the Yosemite National Park, in an area that was once the village of the native Miwoks. In 1925, Gilbert Stanley Underwood was selected as the architect for this new luxury hotel. Due to its remote location, the construction of The Ahwahnee was the most complex trucking endeavour of its day. More than 5,000 tons of stone, 1,000 tons of steel, and 30,000 feet of timber were hauled over the challenging mountain roads.
The jewel in Northern California’s natural crown is without doubt, Yosemite National Park. Sights like the daunting sheer face of El Capitan, the grandeur of Glacier Point and the 200 giant Sequoia trees of Mariposa Grove testify to the incredible pioneering work that saw the protection of Yosemite Valley (and over 747,956 acres of terrain) during the presidency of Abraham Lincoln in 1864, some 8 years before the first official national park was created at Yellowstone in Wyoming.
Driving times and distances
Northern California offers a wonderful combination of urban and outdoor attractions to satisfy all the family. Excellent roads and highways connect many of the key areas, making self-drive a worthwhile option for a truly memorable holiday.
Yosemite NP to San Francisco Distance - 175 miles Driving Time - 3 hours 30 minutes
San Francisco to Carmel Distance - 125 Miles Driving Time - 2 hours San Francisco to Napa Valley Distance - 60 miles Driving Time - 1 hour 5 minutes San Francisco to North Lake Tahoe Distance - 200 miles Driving Time - 3 hours 20 minutes (North Lake Tahoe to Reno International Airport - 45 miles/minutes) Lake Tahoe to Yosemite NP Distance - 125 miles Driving Time - 2 hours 30 minutes
The hotel is renowned for its grand public areas with large stone fireplaces, vast wooden beams, rich tapestries and elegant stained glass. The views of the Half Dome and the Yosemite Falls are exceptional. The hotel features a fantastic solarium with indoor fountain from which to view the majestic Glacier Point.
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Caribbean cuisine and hospitality reach new heights at Cobblers Cove
t the heart of Cobblers Cove, and in a culinary league all of its own, the ocean-front Camelot Restaurant is the creation of Michael Harrison, the only Barbadosborn Executive Chef cooking in a 5 star setting on the island. Chef Michael trained under Michel Roux Jr. at Le Gavroche in London, before working at a number of world-renowned restaurants in Europe and the US before returning home to Cobblers Cove in 2012.
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Imbued with Chef Michael’s unique, Bajan approach, Cobblers Cove’s reputation for excellence in cuisine has earned the hotel its much coveted 5 star recognition from the prestigious Relais & Châteaux group, whose emphasis on food and wine has set the culinary bar at the highest level. The Camelot was also awarded 'Restaurant of the Year' at the Barbados Hotel & Tourism Association Awards in May 2014. Chef Michael’s cuisine adopts true Caribbean flavours using the freshest, local produce, whether it be fresh fish brought straight from the sea by the hotel’s fisherman, Barker, or a
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delicious vegetarian delicacy like Olive Crusted Mahi Mahi, whose main ingredient is plantains. Such dishes sit in good company with fine internationally inspired dishes, but be sure to look out for Chef’s Barbadian touches! Such fine fare also deserves a robust selection of fine wines, and the hotel is justifiably proud to maintain a very comprehensive wine list. Cobblers Cove also invites famous guest chefs for short residences. In 2015 these will feature visits by awardwinning South African Chef Garth Stroebel in January and Masterchef 2010 winner Dhruv Baker in March. For those who may not be acquainted with one of Barbados’ most cherished luxury hotels, Cobblers Cove, which lies on the “Platinum” Coast near to the quaint fishing village of Speitstown, is a privately-owned English country house-style hotel which blends immaculate Colonial décor with understated luxury. There is a distinctly intimate, and informal atmosphere that seems to rub off immediately on the lucky guests (many returning again and again), whether couples or families, who can choose from just forty suites dotted through its lush, tropical grounds – each with a breezecooled sitting room and private terrace. There is a swimming pool, floodlit tennis court, small fitness centre and complimentary watersports including waterskiing, sailing and windsurfing. Supervised activities are available for children aged 2-12 yrs during Christmas, Easter and summer holidays.
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Blackwell’s Discovering the rich beat of Jamaica with Island Outpost
GoldenEye, Oracabessa GoldenEye was Ian Fleming’s Jamaica retreat and where he wrote all 14 of the James Bond novels. Today, accommodations at the original resort include: The five bedroom Fleming Villa, 11 one and two-bedroom Beach and Lagoon Villas, six Lagoon Cottages, and one Ocean Front Villa. Located on a stunning 52-acre site, GoldenEye is home to secret coves, breathtaking private beaches, tropical forests, and a seawater lagoon.
here is a wonderful synergy with the villas and resorts of Chris Blackwell’s Island Outpost that perfectly mirrors the Jamaican pace of life. Vibrant, yet laid-back, here is a collection of diverse properties that will appeal to visitors with both an appetite to immerse themselves into the culture as well as a preference to chill out in a low-impact luxury environment in some of the most beautiful locations that this musically rich and colourful country can offer.
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In this respect whether it be the hills overlooking Kingston, the delicate and lush bays and lagoon of Oracabessa or the clifftop and sea cave setting of Negril you are in for a treat. You will appreciate why the island, and especially Blackwell’s properties, has offered both a secretive bolthole as well as an inspirational place to stimulate creative minds.
Strawberry Hill, Irish Town Strawberry Hill, the 26-acre mountain-top resort, is located in the heart of Jamaica’s Blue Mountains in Irish Town, 3,000 feet above the Caribbean Sea and overlooking Kingston. The property features twelve 19th century Georgian-style cottages, an infinity-edge pool, The Spa at Strawberry Hill, expansive botanical gardens, and world-class dining.
The Caves, Negril The Caves is a 10-acre all inclusive resort consisting of twelve exclusive cliff-side accommodations, including a selection of one and two-bedroom cottages and suites, plus Clandestino, a three-bedroom villa with double occupancy annex. The property’s series of coral stairways, grottos, caves and private nooks invite exploration.
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These are retreats with great personality, where, for instance at Oracabessa, Ian Fleming chose to build and reside at his villa “GoldenEye”, penning all 14 of the James Bond novels. Today, his villa has become the focal point for the larger collection of cottages, villas, restaurants and bars that all make up the GoldenEye Hotel & Resort. In the context of a more modern appreciation of Jamaica, it is not surprising that Jamaican-born Chris Blackwell who, as founder of Island Records, nurtured some of the world’s most famous rock and pop musicians including Bob Marley, has also invested much energy into his passion to promote the culture of his home country. Certainly, his enthusiasm has rubbed off on his creative peers with celebrities, rock stars and A-listers all being regular visitors to Island Outpost. Notwithstanding the need for luxury trappings, of which there are many sybaritic pleasures from well-stocked bars, luxury spas to water toys like jet skis, the true magic of Island Outpost is best summed up by Chris Blackwell himself: “I want guests to feel as if they have been to a country and a community rather than just a resort or a beach”
�Good hotels are places where you dream of staying, great hotels are where you want to live. This is how a lot of these hotels began, as places I lived."
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