Experience The Wonders of The Palio in Siena in Italy

The Palio di Siena is a magnificent horse race and festival that’s held in the Italian city of Siena twice each year. Siena is located next to the famous Renaissance city of Florence.

The Palio in Siena is a special event for the city as every citizen is involved to some extent. Locally, The Palio di Siena is known as Il Palio. The event is a historical secular tradition tied to the origin of the Contrada of the city of Siena.

This popular event is witnessed by thousands of tourists and locals who crowd historic Il Campo square to view this incredible, cultural experience. See first hand as a horse and jockey, who represent various parts of Siena participate in the exciting horse race.

We can arrange a unique Palio in Siena, luxury travel package and that includes an apartment to view all of the festive action. It’s a VIP service experience. This exclusive apartment can hold up 10 people, and was actually rented by famous actress Kate Winslet during last year’s event.

The luxury Apartment offers the following amenities: Guided visits, De Luxe room in a Tuscan resort, breakfast and thermal experiences, plus a private car and driver at your disposal.

The Palio in Siena is a unique combination of culture, tradition and folklore. Beginning August 16, immerse yourself in two days of festivities that includes the unbelievable medieval duels between the numerous contrada teams.

After the horse races end, you can relax and enjoy the Italian culture with three days at a resort found in the hilly area of Val d’Orcia.

The Palio in Siena itinerary includes the following:

Friday August 15
– Late Afternoon Arrival at Siena (a transfer be be arranged by request from the arrival airport)
– Check in at the 5 stars Hotel in Siena
– Dinner at the Contrada preparing the Palio

Sat August 16
– Morning: 3h Guided Visit of the Contrada, the Church during the Horses Benediction, the Contrada Museum, Pinacoteca and Dome
– Lunch
– Back to the Hotel preparing for The Palio (Dress code: Formal)
– 5:30 p.m Transfer to a Private and Exclusive Apartment in Piazza del Campo which boasts the exclusive view on the Mossa, which is both the starting and ended point of the Palio’s Run
– 7:30 p.m Starting of the Palio’s run, Folkloristic Dinner in Piazza del Campo, watching the Horses Parade

Sun August 17
– Morning: Check out
– Transfer to the Resort in the Val d’Orcia
– Check in at the Resort: A XVII century palace with thermal pool hidden in the Tuscany’s hills
– Afternoon at your leisure
– Dinner in a suggested restaurant

Mon August 18
– Morning: Discovering Val d’Orcia villages, guided visits of Montepulcinao, Pienza, Montalcino (private driver at disposal)
– Lunch: Wine, typical Tuscan products and Olive oil tasting
– Afternoon at your leisure
– Dinner in a suggested prized restaurant

Tue August 19
– Morning: Discovering Val d’Orcia Villages: guided visits of Sorano, Pitigliano and Saturnia
– Afternoon leisure time
– Dinner in a suggested restaurant

Wed August 20
– Check out of your hotel
– Transfer to Rome (different destinations are available upon request)
– Flight back to your home country

Luxury travel

If you interested in experiencing the wonders of The Palio in Siena in Italy, contact The Life of Luxury and one of our VIP travel concierge specialists can book your entire itinerary. Want to learn about more luxury travel opportunities, then follow this luxury blog each day.




Explore the Romantic City of Venice in Three Perfect Days

The magical Italian city of Venice is often called the “Queen of the Adriatic.” Venice is recognized as one of the most romantic, if not the most romantic city in the world.

When one hears the word Venice, it conjures up visions of an endless fairytale of canals, a romantic gondola ride and incredible building architecture. Venice is also known for luxury shopping, local markets and numerous fine dining restaurants.

The city’s history is rich in culture. Each view from a narrow bridge or stroll down the piazzas tells a unique story. So how should you spend your time discovering Venice, Italy. Many people spend just a day from the mainland of Italy, but there is much to see and do.

We wanted to share the perfect way to spend three days exploring Venice. You’ll fall in love at first sight and want to immediately make plans to return someday soon.

For those you are making plans to visit this Spring and love art, you are in luck. Venice is hosting all of its major art exhibitions this season. The art exhibits include the Fortuny Museum, the exhibition of Carlo Fontana in Palazzo Franchetti and Venice Art for All Haris Epaminondas Chapter IV. Cyprian artist Haris Espaminonda also makes his first Italy art exhibit in Venice.

There’s no better place to start your Venice stay than visiting St. Mark’s Square and its incredible Cathedral. St. Mark’s Square is also known as Piazza San Marco and is the primary, public square of Venice. The amazing Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art displays a wide variety of very unusual artistic pieces. One of the best places to take in the famous Grand Canal of Venice is from the terrace of the De Pisis. To view the Bellini’s famous triptych and Titian’s magnificent ‘Assumption of the Virgin Mary’ stop by the church of the Franciscan Friars. End the day with a fine dining experience at the Michelin-starred Quadri Restaurant located in Saint Mark’s Square.

Begin your second day with a delicious breakfast at one of many local eateries. Then it’s off to the Veneto Region of Italy with a short train ride to Padua. Be sure to see the world-renowned Scrovegni Chapel frescoes that were created

by Giotto. Visit St. Anthony’s Cathedral and stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens, plus view Galileo’s operating table. You can dine at the trattoria “Da Gianni” or head back to Saint Mark’s Square for numerous restaurant choices.

On day three, hop on a private boat and head out to the Islands of the lagoon. Explore this amazing place and be taken back in time. One of the most secret islands is San Francesco del Deserto. On the island of Torcello, you can dine and enjoy the panoramic views of Venice. For additional views and a little exercise, be sure to climb up to the top of the beautiful bell tower. Upon your return to Venice, stop by the busy Rialto Market which is right next to famous Rialto Bridge.

To have a true VIP experience, be sure to stay at The Bauers luxury hotel while in Venice. This elegant hotel can be found just a few steps away from the main city center of Venice.

If you want to live in a dream for a few days, nothing beats The Bauers Hotel, located in the heart of Venice, a mere two minutes walking distance from the city’s St. Mark’s Square, shopping, and cultural center. Also nearby is the magical Doge’s palace, which best symbolizes Venice. Doge’s palace is also located in St. Mark’s Square, close by the famous Ponte dei Sospiri.

A luxury stay at The Bauers hotel provides its guests with many privileges such as passes to the Pinault Foundation, the various civic museums and access to the Venice Casino. In addition, receive benefits in some of the luxury hotel’s partner boutiques located around Venice.

Luxury travel

The Bauers hotel makes for a perfect stay while in scenic Venice. Itself offering classic architecture and opulence.

To make plans to visit Venice, Italy and stay at The Bauers luxury hotel near Saint Mark’s Square, contact one of our travel concierge specialists at The Life of Luxury. Continue keeping up with the best luxury travel news by following our luxury blog.




World’s First Outdoor Whisky Art Gallery by Aberlour in Scotland

Aberlour is a premium single malt Scotch whisky brand and they just announced the grand opening of the world’s first outdoor whisky art gallery in Scotland.

The art exhibition is truly a unique experience for visitors to see up close and explore the various elements which contribute to creating Aberlour in the area surrounding the whisky distillery.

The popular Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival celebration honors Scotland’s national drink – whisky. The Aberlour whisky art gallery coincides with the beginning of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

The incredible outdoor photography exhibition is free to all attendees and includes beautiful, photography work by former European Wildlife Photographer of the Year, David Maitland.

The Scottish art exhibit will offer a world-first series of amazing super-macro images that uncover the uncovered beauty of Aberlour’s whisky journey. Several topics that are represented include the unique oak cask where the whisky spirit is transformed plus the pink granite used to create the softness of the water utilized in the fine whisky distillation process.

The specialized technique of super-macro photography used by photographer David Maitland allows the subject to be captured closer than ever before. The resulting imagery is stunning and displayed within this unique outdoor, whisky art gallery by Aberlour.

Proud winner of the European Wildlife Photographer of the Year in 2008, Dr David Maitland was quoted, “I am so pleased that the public can enjoy these images in the natural surrounding from which they were inspired, right in the heart of Scotland’s single malt region.”

Maitland continues, “The whisky journey is one that relies on nature and none more so than Aberlour, from the spring water used in the distillation process, to the sherry casks in which the whisky is aged. These images bring all of these elements to life in a way that I have not seen done before and I hope will be enjoyed by all who see them.”

Luxury travel

The Aberlour outdoor whisky gallery is located at the Aberlour Distillery in the middle of Scotland’s Speyside region, between the cities of Inverness and Aberdeen. Whisky tours are also available at the Aberlour Distillery.

If you would like to travel to Scotland and attend the world’s first outdoor whisky art gallery by Aberlour, contact The Life of Luxury and we can assist with your luxury travel needs. Keep up with other travel related news by visiting our luxury blog.




For a Genuine VIP Experience, Stay at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo

Spring is here and the arrival of the luxury Grand Hotel Tremezzo re-opening on Lake Como is upon us. First built in 1910, the luxury hotel in Italy underwent a 3 year renovation project that consisted of a complete overhaul of the hotel’s 92 rooms.

The incredible Grand Hotel Tremezzo has been a favorite destination for the many of the world’s most affluent people, from famous celebrities to noted dignitaries. This iconic palace hideaway offers the ultimate in luxury living.

This season, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo will offer 30 newly-renovated Lake View Prestige Rooms plus the new signature Historic Suite Aurelia. This unique lakeside palace serves up memorable views of the Riviera delle Azalee, Bellagio, plus incredible Grigne mountains.

Hotel guests will enjoy wrought-iron balconies that provide amazing water views of majestic Lake Como. The luxury rooms are decorated with custom furniture that have been created by local artisans. The decor has also been accented with finest, local silk. You’ll find gorgeous Verona marble in each bathroom. The glamorous style is truly magnificent!

Suite Aurelia becomes the latest “Historic Suite” at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo and pays tribute to one of the hotel’s own Grand Dames. Turning 90 years old this year, Aurelia is respected and beautiful member of owning family, and has an elegant style and well known for her sophistication.

In the Suite Aurelia, which is the fourth Historic Suite that the hotel has added, discover treasured antiques from her own personal collection. Examples are a beautiful 18th Century oil painting, incredible baroque mirror in addition to a writing desk.

Each Historic Suite at the luxury Grand Hotel Tremezzo celebrates the “Great Ladies” who have graced the Italian property. For example, Suite Greta was named after famous actress Greta Garbo, who mentioned the luxury hotel in her popular movie – “Grand Hotel.”

For hotel guests staying in one of the eight, amazing Rooftop Suites, they will experience the ultimate indulgence and VIP service of a private butler service. For those who want a true VIP experience, combine all 8 suites into your very own, opulent Rooftop Penthouse.

Each of the Rooftop Suites offers a private terrace and outdoor heated Jacuzzi. There’s no better place to take in the breathtaking Lake Como views and relax in luxury style.

The renovation at the luxury Italian hotel also consisted of updates to the luxurious T Spa. Indulge in luxury style by trying a spa treatment in the T Spa Suite. It even comes with a private couple’s massage room. T Spa Suite features a stunning whirlpool tub to relax your worries away, in addition to a steam bath, with contrast shower and cascade jets, plus a sauna.

For some of the best fine dining found anywhere, choose from any of the hotel’s five restaurants. Discover Italian cuisine from the culinary maestro Gualtiero Marchesi. Marchesi is well recognized as Italy’s most celebrated modern Chef. Along with Executive Chef Osvaldo Presazzi, Maestro Marchesi’s offers signature dishes such as his world-renowned “Risotto con Foglia d’oro,” or Saffron Risotto topped with Pure Gold Leaf.

Luxury travel

If interested in booking a dream vacation to Italy and stay at the iconic Grand Hotel Tremezzo on Lake Como, please contact The Life of Luxury and one of our travel concierge specialists can assist you. To stay on top of the latest VIP travel news, come back often and follow this luxury blog.




Raffles Istanbul – New Luxury Hotel in Turkey

Scheduled to open September 1, 2014, the Raffles Istanbul luxury hotel is on path to become the “new face of Istanbul” and offer true VIP service plus endless, luxurious amenities.

Raffles Istanbul is centrally located in the Zorlu Center. This social hub is noted for fine fashion, wonderful food and the arts. The luxury hotel sits on the European shore in Beşiktaş and offers scenic views of the Bosphorus, the Princess Islands and local peninsula.

Raffles Hotels & Resorts has long history of offering luxury properties going back to 1887 when they opened Raffles Hotel, Singapore. This award-winning, luxury international hotel company offers ten luxurious properties in the following locations: Singapore, China, Cambodia, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Seychelles, Philippines and Paris.

Similar to the Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris luxury hotel, the new Raffles Istanbul will be adorned in fine artwork from Turkish artists. The art collection will enhance the already sleek modern interiors and consist of a mix of sculpture, paintings, photography plus video installations.

As there is a thriving art industry in Istanbul, the Raffles Istanbul hotel wants to assist its guests with an Art Concierge. The service is similar to what is currently offered at Le Royal Monceau in Paris, and will help hotel guest better understand the flourishing, new art scene and celebrating a new generation of creative artists.

Istanbul, Turkey is a timeless city and the Raffles Istanbul will deliver a luxury oasis for those of expect the very best in a luxury hotel. VIP services abound, hotel guest will be wowed by an elegance that will overwhelm their senses.

If you would like some discretion, then use the hotel’s rooftop helipad to arrive and depart in an expeditious manner in a helicopter. As you arrive, you’ll notice the luxury hotel’s sleek rooms with huge balconies that provide amazing views of the ancient city of Istanbul, Turkey.

There are a total of 130 luxurious guestrooms and 50 suites at the Raffles Istanbul hotel. The property also features a wide range of luxury amenities and VIP service, such as indoor and outdoor swimming pools, two restaurants and a bar, ballroom. For a relaxing and pampering experience, try the signature Raffles Spa which will be one of the largest spas found anywhere in Istanbul.

The rooftop swimming pool is a wonderful place to unwind and beat the city’s summer heat. At night, the pool area comes alive with the vibe of live music in addition to a vibrant DJ / nightclub atmosphere. Socialize, dance and enjoy the awesome city views.

The Long Bar, found downstairs will offer delicious tasting, modern cocktails but with a new glam twist. It will soon become a popular social gathering for both locals and hotel guests.

Hotel room rates at the new Raffles Istanbul luxury hotel will start at €600 per night.

To learn more and book your Istanbul reservation and stay at the new Raffles Istanbul hotel, please contact The Life of Luxury. One of our travel concierge specialists will be happy to plan your travel itinerary. Follow this luxury blog to keep abreast of the latest travel industry news.




Experience the BAUERs Venetian Garden at the Palladio Hotel & Spa

The luxurious Palladio Hotel and Spa is located on Venice Giudecca Island in Italy and provides guests spectacular views across the water to the world famous Doge’s Palace.

Venice is a magical place with secluded islands, winding alleyways, incredible Italian cuisine and of course, the gondolas that cruise down the romantic canals of Venice.

But a hidden gem of Venice is adjacent to the Palladio Hotel & Spa and Villa Giudecca Island. This beautiful, secluded oasis awaits those luckily enough to visit it. The reward is one of the most romantic spots found anywhere in the world – the BAUERs Venetian Garden.

The magnificent Venetian Garden is wonderful way to enjoy film screenings, relaxing picnics, as well as al fresco dining.

Francesca Bortolotto Possati is the current owner of the Bauer Hotel group and has made it a priority to revive this secret garden that is relatively hidden. She has been inspired by the beauty of the gardens with traditional English flowers and the oldest magnolia tree in Venice.

For an unforgettable experience, The Bauers Palladio Hotel & Spa offers its guests the unique chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the BAUERs Venetian Garden and indulge in a dining experience of Italian cuisine under the trees. the lush garden is adorned with flowers read to bloom this Spring, including: narcissuses, tulips and crocuses.

Later this summer the garden will come alive with plants such is lily of the valley, lilacs, climbing white roses plus and a gorgeous, lavender-lined pagoda.

Lounge in the garden with deliciously prepared baskets – al fresco style. The Palladio Hotel & Spa also provides cookery lessons that are offered by the hotel’s talented chefs. Be taught using traditional culinary methods and utilize fresh, classic Venetian ingredients from the nearby Rialto market.

The BAUERs Venetian Garden is an oasis for the senses. Children can play amongst warm sunshine, fresh air, and lush green grass of the garden grounds. The beauty of the garden flowers and trees is stunning. Visitors can also try various activities such as rowing and gondola lessons. Or take a private boat and cruise around the many, hidden Venetian islands.

For mothers who desire a pampering experience, enjoy a day at the hotel luxury spa. Choose from a variety of body treatments that will both relax and rejuvinate. If you want to keep in the spirit of enjoying the natural outdoors, then try a luxury massage in the garden in a linen tent under the breezy magnolia tree. It doesn’t get any better than that – a true VIP style experience!

For a little artistic experience, how about a fun picnic while watching outdoor screenings of various classic English and International films. Several noted ones include Alice in Wonderland and Brideshead Revisited. During the warmer summer months, the movie screenings will be held both indoors, in addition to outside in the property’s garden.

Rates at luxury Palladio Hotel & Spa begin at 400 Dollars.

To make plans and stay at the Palladio Hotel & Spa in Venice, Italy and visit the BAUERs Venetian Garden, contact The Life of Luxury for help in booking your reservations. You want to keep up with the latest luxury travel news? Then follow our luxury blog.




Luxury Cromlix Hotel in Scotland – Owned by Tennis Great Andy Murray

The luxury hotel Cromlix in Perthshire, Scotland is owned by tennis star Andy Murray. Cromlix now becomes the 28th Scotish property part of the Connoisseurs Scotland family of luxury accommodations.

Cromlix is the latest venture by Wimbledon champion Andy Murray. The luxury hotel is managed on behalf of Mr. Murray by Inverlochy Castle Management International (ICMI).

The 15-bedroom luxurious Cromlix hotel is a stunning, Victorian mansion located just three short miles from Murray’s hometown of Dunblane.

The hotel is pure, grand country house living. The recently completed renovation has focused on keeping the original heritage. The hotel’s property even includes its own private chapel and loch.

The Cromlix offers a whisky room for guests to relax and have their favorite beverage. There’s a drawing room, furnished with muted sofas and an open fire. Overall, you will find nine different fireplaces throughout the hotel.

Cromlix Hotel Drawing Room
Cromlix Hotel Drawing Room

The hotel’s luxury decor features an elegant blend of antique Scottish furniture. The bar is decorated in sky blue and gold leaf and the Chez Roux dining room is adorned in French navy and moss green with glass-walls.

Guest accommodations at the luxurious Cromlix hotel include 10 bedrooms and 5 suites. Many of the bedrooms offer gorgeous views of the manicured grounds and nearby tennis courts. The VIP style rooms bask in natural light and are subtly decorated.

The 5 elegant suites have been named after famous Scots – Burns, Bowes-Lyon, Bruce, Eden and Ferguson by Andy Murray himself. Each of the luxury suites has their own unique character to make your Scotish stay a special one. You’ll find stunning, freestanding gold, silver and copper baths, in addition to high-end 32-inch televisions screens that are cleverly disguised as mirrors. It’s VIP living at its very best.

For a truly fine dining experience, try Chez Roux restaurant. This luxury restaurant is overseen by the legendary French chef – Albert Roux. Award-winning Executive Head Chef runs Chez Roux restaurant.

Darin Campbell, is housed in an elegant conservatory overlooking the grounds and offers diners a ringside view of the chefs at work in the extensive open kitchen. Guest will also find other private dining opportunities such as the intimacy of a small study that seats up to 10 people or the first-floor snooker room that offers traditional atmosphere. You’ll find a full-size snooker table that creatively spins over from green baize to a table that can easily seat up to 20 people.

If you would like to hold a wedding party at the Cromlix, there is a beautiful chapel that can hold up to 30 people. In addition, there’s a gorgeous organ with exposed pipes at foot of the stylish, hotel staircase.

Norbert Lieder is the managing director and was quoted, “Cromlix and Chez Roux combine to truly offer one of the best hotel and restaurant experiences in the country. The interiors, service, food and attention to every detail of the customer journey will make sure Cromlix becomes as well known for its service as it is for its famous owner. We look forward to welcoming guests from all over Scotland, the UK and the world.”

Outdoors, enjoy the beauty of Scotland. The perfectly manicured landscaped grounds are lush with flowers, trees and shrubs. Play the role of tennis star Andy Murray while you play a few games on the property’s tennis courts. The tennis court and practice wall have look and feel of Wimbledon, painted in the colors of purple and green.

To book a reservation to Scotland and stay at the Cromlix luxury hotel, please contact The Life of Luxury and we can help arrange you entire itinerary. Want to read up on the latest travel news, follow our luxury blog.




5,500 of the World’s Best Bartenders Battle – Diageo Reserve World Class

It’s the ultimate battle of cocktail mixology on the high seas! 5,500 of the world’s best bartenders will go head to head in an epic competition.

Diageo Reserve World Class™ is sponsoring this battle in partner of 4 of the biggest names in the cruise industry – Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International.

Diageo Reserve World Class has been transforming fine drinking experiences and cocktail culture, both around the world as well as at home. The brand offers some of most recognized spirits known today. Their luxury portfolio includes the following popular labels:

JOHNNIE WALKER® BLUE LABEL™ Blended Scotch Whisky, JOHNNIE WALKER® PLATINUM LABEL™ Blended Scotch Whisky, JOHNNIE WALKER® GOLD LABEL RESERVE™ Blended Scotch Whisky, The SINGLETON™ Single Malt Scotch Whisky, CÎROC® Vodka, KETEL ONE® Vodka, TANQUERAY® No.TEN™ Gin, DON JULIO® Tequila, ZACAPA® Rum, Bulleit® Bourbon, and Talisker Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

This year’s competition will see a huge increase in participation as 5,500 cruise line bartenders from around the world will compete for supremacy. That’s almost 15 times more participants than last year.

Diageo Reserve World Class
Photo: Ian Derry

The goal of this incredible bartender battle is to discover the next generation of bartending talent by introducing and sharing the latest mixology trends, then carrying these learnings to the best bars worldwide.

The head to head rounds will go on until only four bartenders remain. The final four will compete at the glamorous Diageo Reserve World Class Global Travel semi-final event on 5th June, and held in tropical Miami, Florida. Who will be crowned the mixologist extraordinaire?

World Class Global Winner for Latin America & Caribbean 2013, Mario Seijo, will be managing the training program this year. Seijo will be supported by leading mixologists Joseph Brooke, Julio Cabrera plus Michael Parish. The team will coach the on board bartenders in various showmanship skills in addition to the latest cocktail making trends to create great tasting drinks for their cruise ship guests. Two of those trends include ‘Gin and the Secrets of Distillation’ and ‘Mediterranean Mastery’.

Louise Higgins is the Marketing Director of Diageo GTME Western was was quoted, “WORLD CLASS has become synonymous with creativity, style and sophistication, constantly pushing the boundaries of contemporary and experiential cocktail culture. Through DIAGEO RESERVE WORLD CLASS, the drinks industry’s largest investment in luxury drinking experiences, we are delighted to be collaborating with the best cruise lines in the industry to transform fine-drinking for holiday makers. This is our biggest year ever by some way and we are excited to see these bartenders will take their cocktail making skills to new levels in the world’s most credible cocktail competition.”

Due to the large increase in participating bartenders, Diageo Reserve World Class decided to bring in two more cruise line heavyweights. Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises will join this year and are excited to add fine-drinking experiences for their passengers as well.

If you would like to learn more and book a reservation on one of these luxury cruise ships to watch the bartender competition. please contact The Life of Luxury. A travel concierge member will be happy to assist you. Come back often to read the latest news on our luxury blog.




Celebrate National Tartan Day and Honor Americans of Scottish Descent

April 6 is National Tartan Day. It’s a holiday that occurs each year to recognize proud Americans of Scottish descent and Scotland’s important contributions in the United States.

There will be numerous celebrations across the country leading up to National Tartan Day, such as parades, bagpipe players plus Scotch whisky tastings. Of course, great tasting Scotch Whisky is the perfect drink to help you have fun and enjoy this honored holiday.

Laphroaig® Single Malt Scotch Whisky is well recognized whisky brand and known as the most richly flavoured Scotch Whisky found anywhere. Below is a delicious cocktail recipe we hope you will enjoy on National Tartan Day.

Laphroaig® Affinity ingredients:
– 1 1⁄2 parts Laphroaig® Quarter Cask Scotch Whisky
– 1⁄2 part Sweet Vermouth
– 1⁄2 part Dry Vermouth
– 2-3 dashes Orange Bitters

Method: Stir all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled rocks glass. Garnish with an orange peel.

We have gathered some interesting, Scottish heritage facts to share with others who may be celebrating National Tartan Day.

• The U.S. Senate passed a bill resolution in 1998, naming April 6th as National Tartan Day. The reason that particular date was chosen wa because it was the anniversary of the Declaration of Arbroath, which was signed in 1320 and asserted Scotland’s sovereignty over English claims.
• Across the U.S., there are eight towns named Edinburgh, eight that are named Aberdeen, and seven named Glasgow. IN addition, eight towns are called Scotland.
• The world’s first color photograph was of a Tartan ribbon.
• Americans of Scotch descent number over 5 million people. Several well known names include: Lucille Ball, Reese Witherspoon, Lyndon B. Johnson, Edgar Allen Poe, Robert Downey Jr., Johnny Cash, and surprisingly – Malcolm X.

So enjoy this special day in Scottish heritage and drink up with a glass of Laphroaig® Affinity
cocktail.

If you have always desired to visit Scotland, contact The Life of Luxury and we can help put together a wonderful luxury travel itinerary to make your trip a memorable one. Follow our luxury blog for the latest luxury news.




“Behind the Scenes Grand Budapest Hotel” Package at Corinthia Hotel Budapest

The Corinthia Hotel Budapest was first opened as the Grand Hotel Royal back in 1896. The luxury hotel in the capital city of Hungary in Europe was completely rebuilt and finished in 2003.

The Grand Hotel Royal was Europe’s first grand hotel and royal spa. In 1915, the Hotel’s Royal Ballroom was converted into the Royal Apollo Cinema to show the first cinematographic screening outside of Paris in Continental Europe. Seating was created for 1,000 viewers.

The exclusive, three-night “Behind the Scenes” package at the luxury Corinthia Hotel Budapest provides movie buffs a unique experience and appreciate the luxurious ambiance of an historic “Grand Hotel.”

Hotel guests can enjoy a luxury lifestyle at the Executive Club facilities while getting pampered in the beautifully restored Royal Spa. Interesting fact is that the spa is actually ten years older than the original luxury hotel.

You’ll be able to learn about the history of the Hungarian film industry which has its roots in the Corinthia Hotel’s Grand Ballroom. You don’t have to be a millionaire or billionaire to experience a luxury lifestyle.

The “Behind the Scenes” package also provides guests a special opportunity to attend a VIP Grand Budapest Hotel movie screening at the Arena Plaza cinema (guaranteed between the dates of March 20 and April 9). You’ll next be able to participate in a walking tour of the Hungarian capital’s most famous movie set locations.

No visit to Budapest should leave out a cruise down the famous Danube River. The river cruise provides amazing views of Budapest that will last a lifetime.

Pricing for the three-night “Behind the Scenes” experience at the luxury Corinthia Hotel Budapest starts at EUR 842 (approximately $1,150). Package price is for two and includes a buffet breakfast. Rates are good between March 20 and December 25, 2014.

To make a reservation and experience Budapest, Hungry and stay at the luxury Corinthia Hotel  Budapest, please contact The Life of Luxury.  Be sure to follow our luxury blog to keep with on the latest luxury living industry news.




Ferrari Land – New Luxury Theme Park Coming to Spain

When the incredible Ferrari World Abu Dhabi opened in the UAE, it became the largest indoor and first Ferrari theme park. We covered the story here – Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Well Ferrari just announced its plan to build a brand new theme park near Barcelona, Spain inside the PortAventura luxury resort. The new theme park will be called Ferrari Land.

In addition to Ferrari Land, the first Ferrari-themed hotel is planned for PortAventura. This five-star luxury hotel will offer 250 guest rooms, fine dining restaurants, in addition to a driving simulator.

Ferrari Land will be built on eighteen and a half acres of land. PortAventura Entertainment SAU is a subsidiary of Investindustrial and signed a licensing agreement with Ferrari. The company has rich history in the luxury car industry. In 2012, they bought about a third of luxury car brand Aston Martin, plus they own Ducati.

The luxury, Ferrari Land theme park will feature highest and fastest vertical accelerator in Europe. It’s a terrific opportunity for the whole family to learn about the luxury car brand and experience world-class entertainment.

Ferrari Land is scheduled to open in 2016 and comes with a hefty price tag of about $139 million or 100 million euros.

If you need help in booking a luxury vacation to Europe or anywhere in the world, please contact The Life of Luxury and one of our travel concierge specialists can assist with your entire itinerary. Be sure to re-visit our luxury blog to follow the world of luxury.