The popular Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy is not only Rome’s largest Baroque fountain, but also recognized as the city’s most beautiful one.

Trevi Fountain has origins that date back to ancient Roman times, when it was the terminal point of Rome’s aqueduct – Aqua Virgo – constructed in 19 BC. Aqua Virgo translates to “the Virgins Water.”

Trevi Fountain, or locally known as Fontana di Trevi, dominates quaint Trevi Square which is located in the Quirinale district.

In 1730, Pope Clement XII originally held a competition for a fountain design that would cover the whole back wall of the Palazzo Poli. In 1732, then Pope Clement XII commissioned Nicola Salvi to create a large fountain at the Trevi Square.

It took 30 years, but the beautiful fountain was finally completed. Die to the long construction timeline, three different popes served the Catholic church – Clement XII, Benedict XIV and Clement XIII.

Trevi Fountain was officially unveiled on May 22, 1732 and has been a popular Roman attraction ever since.

The primary figure of Trevi Fountain is Neptune, the god of the sea. Neptune rides a chariot that’s shaped like a shell and is pulled by two sea horses. A Triton guides each of the sea horses. The water at the bottom of the gorgeous fountain represents the sea. The statue on the right hand side of Neptune represents Salubrity. On the left is a statue that represents Abundance.

If you do visit Rome and see Trevi Fountain, you must follow the long standing tradition of tossing a coin into the fountain’s water. Legend has it that he or she who throws a coin over your shoulder with your back to the fountain …. will one day will come back in Rome.

Legend has it you will return to Rome if you throw a coin into the water. You should toss it over your shoulder with your back to the fountain.

To make reservations to visit Rome Italy and see the world famous Trevi Fountain, please contact The Life of Luxury by using the below form:

Photo: Biennale

For lovers of the art and those who can’t get enough of the romantic city of Venice, Italy … you are in luck. Now you can combine the best of both worlds.

The world famous Venice Biennale is one of the most illustrious art festivals in the world and showcases contemporary art, architecture, cinema, dance, music and theatre on every corner of Venice.

First established in 1895, Biennale is historically the oldest art festival. This special art event runs between June and November and draws art and culture lovers from all over the world to experience all that is truly one of Italy’s most beautiful cities.

Venice Biennale will be held at the Giardini, at the Arsenale, in addition to other venues thoughout the famous Italian city.

In 2013, Biennale will celebrate its 55th anniversary. The renowned art festival will showcase works from almost 90 countries, and offer 48 collateral events.

To make this a trip to remember, you need to stay in one of the luxury hotels in Venice. The BAUERs Group is widely recognized for having four of the most luxurious properties to stay in Venice – L’Hotel, Il Palazzo, Il Palladio Hotel and Spa, and Villa F.

If you still desire to soak in more art during you rVenice stay, then consider:
– The Seguso Exhibit at the BAUERs L’Hotel, daily through September 29th, 2013. The name Seguso became synonymous with quality glasswork during the fifties and sixties when the prestigious glass factory was under the direction of creative genius Flavio Poli, winner of the Grand Prix at the Brussels International Exposition of 1958.

– See the painting, Le Cortigiane (The courtesans) by Carpaccio at Museo Correr, the civic museum. Another location to visit is The Ghetto – the Venice Jewish museum.

– Ai Wei Wei Exhibit at Zuecca Gallery, on Giudecca Island, runs daily until September 15th, 2013. This exhibition at Zuecca Project Space presents us with an immediate sense of the drama of an event, which underlines the contradictory development of contemporary China.

There is so much to see and do in Venice, Italy anytime of the year. Please contact The Life of Luxury to make your travel reservations and plan your trip of a lifetime to Venice.

Photo: Corinthia Hotel London

Londoners love their tea. As Wimbledon 2013 nears, the world famous tennis tournament will draw thousands of tennis fans to historic London.

The luxurious Corinthia Hotel London has introduced a new program that will serve Wimbledon spectators of the capital the ideal Championship Afternoon Tea.

As you enter the gorgeous lobby of the Corinthia Hotel London, guest will notice soaring dome of the “Full Moon” chandelier. The atmosphere exudes royalty as tranquillity and calm are the order of the play.

The stunning Baccarat Chandelier was made with 1,001 crystals baubles that truly illuminate The Lobby Lounge.

You can enjoy a wide array of teas that include bespoke blends developed specifically for the Corinthia London’s Tea Palace menu. Be sure to try one of the delicious, themed afternoon pastries.

For foodie lovers, consider the savory selection of delicious finger sandwiches with gourmet fillings such as Loch Var smoked salmon, creamed Innes goats cheese with cucumber and organic egg mayonnaise with micro watercress. To end the fine meal, enjoy a mouth-watering selection of scones.

For those who enjoy Champagne, try a glass of Laurent-Perrier with a Champagne Afternoon Tea.

Corinthia Hotel London is offering its Championship Afternoon Tea program each day at 3pm, between June 24th and July 9th 2013.

To book your reservation to attend the Wimbledon 2013 tennis tournament or a stay at the luxury Corinthia Hotel London, please contact The Life of Luxury below:

Photo: The Draycott

The Draycott hotel in London, is the British city’s most refined and charming boutique hotel.

The Draycott Hotel can be found in a stunning 19th century townhouse at 26 Cadogan Gardens in Knightsbridge, inside the borough of Kensington & Chelsea.

As one of the premiere hotels in London and offering five-star accommodations, The Draycott is now offering an incredible package for its guests.

You can have the opportunity to enhance your summer wardrobes with the help of personal shopper and fashion stylist, Ghaz and the world class boutique shopping of Chelsea and Sloane Square.

Photo: The Draycott

The full package is based on a two night stay that also includes morning breakfast for two people plus afternoon tea.

After you’re ready to get your day started, hotel guests will meet with Ghaz, who offers a unique experience for those in search of the most enviable summer wardrobe.

Ghaz is well respected and provides a highly individualized personal styling, wardrobe planning and accompanied personal shopping service for both men and women across the entire London area.

This truly bespoke service is a one of a kind and features a four-hour VIP shopping experience that allows you to take in vintage, new designer and couture shopping throughout the boutiques of Chelsea, Sloane Square and Kings Road.

The Draycott package includes the following:

· Full English Breakfast
· Half day personal shopping and consultation with Ghaz
· Afternoon Tea for two including tea or infusions, a selection of sandwiches, traditional homemade fruit cake, scones, handmade preserves, butter and clotted cream

Hotel package rates are based on a two night stay (rates include VAT):

· Superior Double: £690
· Deluxe Double: £835
· Suite: £979

When you are done with your memorable shopping indulgence, it’s time to head back to The Draycott to enjoy a well-deserved afternoon tea for two served in the splendid drawing room designed by Nina Campbell. This beautiful room overlooks the private garden, and at 6pm – hotel guests can enjoy further pampering with a complimentary glass of champagne.

To book your reservation at The Draycott hotel in London, please contact The Life of Luxury using the form below.

Photo: Cannizaro House

Wimbledon begins June 24th and this year’s famous tennis tournament is expected to be better than ever.

If you’re looking for a bit of British luxury during your stay, then consider the Cannizaro House, Wimbledon.

Cannizaro House, Wimbledon is London’s first boutique country house hotel and is offering several wonderful packages during the Wimbledon tennis tournament.

Located just a two short minute drive from the famous All England Club, Cannizaro House offers first class dining and impeccable service.

Start your special tennis viewing day with Champagne and canapés on the hotel’s terrace. Next enjoy a sumptuous four course lunch in the restaurant. Then be whisked away by a chauffeur driven transport to the tennis tournament.

Wimbledon Lunch package is priced from £200 (incl. VAT @ 20%) per person and includes:
• Coffee and pastries served on the terrace

• Alain Thienot champagne and a selection of canapés

• Four course lunch including unlimited superb red and white wines followed by coffee & something sweet

• Full bar until 2.00pm

• Official Wimbledon programme Aykhurst1042

• Chauffeur driven transport to and from the courts

• Free parking

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Cannizaro House can even offer lunches with a Wimbledon ticket package, which includes all of the above plus:

• Debenture tickets provided by Thomas Cook Sport or BAC Sport

• Prices subject to change and availability for preferred court

For more information about Cannizaro House, Wimbledon – or to make a reservation for the upcoming Wimbledon tennis tournament, please contact The Life of Luxury using the below form:

Hovertravel is the only scheduled Hovercraft operator in Europe. It’s also the quickest way for visitors traveling to the UK, to reach the Isle of Wight.

The scenic Isle of Wight offers some of the best beaches in all of Britain. In addition, enjoy the historic Victorian architecture, all alongside some of quaintest English villages. It is definitely the perfect place for a day out.

Launched in 1965, Hovertravel’s service is a safe and speedy 10 minute flight across The Solent to the Isle of Wight.

More importantly, it means that from London to the Island is a journey of just 1 hour and 45 minutes.

As the world’s longest running hovercraft operator, the Hovertravel experience is also one your children will never forget.

Neil Chapman, managing director of Hovertravel, explains, “For any Americans visiting Europe, the quick flight on our hovercraft is a truly unique and enjoyable experience. We regularly welcome visitors from around the world who have traveled many miles to witness this iconic British invention.”

The Hovertravel terminal is linked to London via several transport options including trains and the Greyhound coach service which departs directly outside the Hovertravel terminal.

For additional information on travel deals and events in Europe this Spring & Summer, please contact us using the below form:

Courtesy: Riverdance

Riverdance is as popular as ever and its continued popularity just proves it remains a worldwide phenomenon with millions of fans.

As a wonderful celebration of Irish music, song and dance, Riverdance draws on Irish traditions and combines the richness of the music with the magic and sensuality of the dance.

Now is your chance to visit Ireland between July 20-21, 2013 and immerse yourself in an incredible Riverdance experience. Enjoy this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be a part of one of Ireland’s most cherished traditions!

Ticket packages include premium tickets to see Riverdance: On Screen, a live gathering of Riverdance bands past and present, but for those with a basic competency in Irish dancing, a one-off opportunity to participate in an attempt to break the current record for the longest Riverdance line!

Each Riverdance – The Gathering vacation package above includes a seat to the following highlight events and are included in your price:
1. Seated tickets for Riverdance: On Screen at Merrion Square – July 20th
2. Reserved priority viewing area for Riverdance – The Record Breaking Attempt – July 21st. Retail Value: $25 per person.
3. Riverdance at the Gaiety special Gathering performances July 20 or 21st (matinee and evening performances). Retail Value: $70 per person. Brendan Vacations has several wonderful travel packages available:

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“Dance & Drive” Vacation Package

Delight in the ultimate Irish experience! Start in Dublin, Ireland’s bustling capital city and enjoy sightseeing and Riverdance festivities before setting off to the quaint countryside and ending in Shannon!
6-night Self-Drive Vacation from $902* per person.

Your travel value includes:
– Private airport arrival transfer
– Your choice of Dublin City Bike or Walking Tour
– Riverdance Experience in Dublin (Complete details online here)
– 2-nights at a 4-star Downtown Hotel in Dublin (several options)
– 5-day Economy Hertz Rental Car with select inclusions
– 1-night stay in Kilkenny or Waterford at a Bed and Breakfast “Gem” of your choice with breakfast
– 2-nights in Killarney at the 4-star Arbutus or The Malton hotel
– 1-night in Shannon at the Bed and Breakfast “Gem” of your choice with breakfast
– All accommodation taxes

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Private Chauffeur Experience: Ireland & Riverdance

Dreaming of Ireland? There is no better way to experience the Emerald Isle’s wondrous traditions than with a premium, private chauffeured vacation. Begin in Dublin, enjoy Riverdance and set off on a journey that will reveal Ireland’s most breathtaking sights and experiences. Best of all, it’s at your pace, with your driver and private car.
7-nights from $4,733** per person, traveling July 19-26, 2013.

Your travel value includes:
– Luxury private car and chauffeur throughout
– Private airport arrival greeting/departure transfers by your chauffeur
– Riverdance Experience in Dublin (Complete details online here)
– 3-nights at the 5-star Merrrion Hotel with daily breakfast in Dublin
– 1-night at the 5-star Waterford Castle with breakfast in Glendalough
– 2-nights at the 5-star Aghadoe Heights Hotel with breakfast in Lakeside
– Private excursions to Bru na Boinne with Newgrange or Knowth to visit the Neolithic tombs; Powerscourt House and Gardens; Blarney Castle; Ring of Kerry; the Foynes Flying Boat Museum and a tasting of traditional “Irish Coffee”
– 1-night at the majestic 5-star Dromoland Castle with breakfast
– All accommodation taxes

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If you are interested in creating your own Irish travel experience, the contact us to add the 2013 Riverdance – The Gathering experience for only $69 per person to any Customized Vacation or either our Dublin & Killarney, or Dublin & Belfast Independent Vacation itineraries – a great value!

To learn more about the available Riverdance – The Gathering vacation package or to book your reservation, please contact us using the below form:

St Ermin’s Hotel

The luxury St Ermin’s Hotel is now offering a spy package that is ideally timed to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Ian Fleming’s first Bond book “Casino Royale,” which gave life to his legendary character. Now hotel guests have a chance to be James Bond 007 like Daniel Craig and live like a spy!

St Ermin’s Hotel in London’s St James’s, which completed an 18-month, £30 million renovation in the summer of 2012, is distinctly individual, contemporary and welcoming with 331 newly designed stylish rooms, including 41 luxurious suites.

With a rich history of espionage, undercover activities and even a secret passageway to British Parliament, London’s recently renovated St. Ermin’s Hotel, offers young 007 fans a chance to be special agents with its “Budding Bonds” package.

Families can use their own undercover abilities with the hotel’s “Budding Bonds” package which lets kids test their code breaking and observational skills. At check-in, each child receives their own Top Secret briefing pack containing confidential information on the hotel’s links to the intelligence community. A book of codes and tips help budding agents develop spy skills, while a series of searching questions.

The briefing pack also takes them on a London Spy Walk Challenge enabling them to win a coveted ‘iSpy for St. Ermin’s’ identity card before being rewarded with their very own shaken not stirred, non-alcoholic cocktail.

For avid James Bond 007 fans and die-hard enthusiasts, the luxury London hotel can arrange a private London Spy Walking Tour, which highlights major points of interest in the country’s history of espionage, much of which took place nearby.

The “Budding Bonds” package is priced at £550 (approximately USD $831.00 based on a family of four sharing) inclusive of VAT for a two-night stay. It includes a Family Room accommodation which sleeps five – two Queen-beds, a full-size day bed and two bathrooms – on a bed & breakfast basis. And, of course, a St. Ermin’s Secret Agent Package per child, including the London Spy Walk Challenge. A minimum two-night stay is required. Offer is subject to availability and is valid till December 31, 2013. Blackout dates may apply.

In 2012, St. Ermin’s Hotel made the Condé Nast Traveler “Hot List” as one of the world’s best new hotels.

To learn more about the St. Ermin’s Hotel “Budding Bonds” package in London or make a reservation, please use the contact form below.

St. Ermin’s Hotel
2 Caxton St
London, SW1H 0QW

Photo: Ellenborough Park

Located in the spectacular rolling countryside of the Cotswolds, Ellenborough Park is a 16^th century country house hotel offering the perfect mid-week getaway for those seeking a deluxe male relaxation experience.

Just over two hours from London, the incredible scenery of Ellenborough Park’s grounds and surrounding landscape offers guests a further opportunity to escape.

Guests can escape their daily routines and indulge themselves in ultimate comfort and luxury through a rejuvenating spa experience, exquisite fine food and wine, along with enjoying the extensive grounds and facilities at this luxurious 5-star award-winning hotel.

The Indian-themed spa offers the ideal venue for relaxation with three separate secluded treatment rooms.

Hotel guests can relax and wind down in the hydrotherapy pool, sauna and steam room. if you’re feeling more energetic, then take advantage of the property’s amazing fitness suite facilities or outdoor swimming pool, heated to a perfect 31 degrees.

Ellenborough Park is part of Mantis, a collection of five star boutique hotels and eco-escapes around the world.

Ellenborough Park which was sensitively restored back in 2011 and has proudly been awarded a number of prestigious accolades since re-opening, most recently winning Leading Country House Hotel and Leading Spa Hotel at the World Travel Awards 2012, along with being voted Trip Advisor’s Traveller’s Choice No. 1 UK Luxury Hotel.

Gentleman’s Luxury Retreat at Ellenborough Park is available Tuesday – Friday from £625

· Overnight stay in a luxury room
· 1 hour – 25 minute spa treatment of back massage, manicure and pedicure
· 3 course fine dining with 3 selected wines specially selected by hear sommelier Clio Giudici

Please use the Contact Form below to submit your travel request for a stay at the Ellenborough Park hotel. We will promptly get back to you.

Wiesbaden

Hanau is located in the scenic Frankfurt Rhine-Main region, in the heart of Germany. The famous Brothers Grimm (Jacob and Wilhelm) were born there and 2013 marks the 200th anniversary of their first publishing of the first volume of “Children’s and Household Tales.” Years later, Walt Disney brought to life the famous characters – Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, and Little Red Riding Hood.

Now the Frankfurt Rhine-Main region is celebrating this milestone by offering various events that celebrate the work and life of the Brothers Grimm. The region can be described as a fairy tale-like landscape, with amazing castles and an unmistakably magical atmosphere.

Frankfurt Rhine-Main region features an array of cultural, historical, and culinary delights, plus thriving cities like Frankfurt, Wiesbaden, Aschaffenburg and Mainz, in addition to traditional villages such as Seligenstadt, Bad Homburg and Rüdesheim.

Hanau is where the rivers Main and Kinzig meet, inviting visitors to enjoy some absolutely amazing scenery. At the market square, in front of the Baroque Neustädter Rathaus (town hall), stands the impressive Brothers Grimm memorial, which commemorates the famous sons of Hanau and marks the starting point of the 373 mile-long Fairy Tale Route.

The “EXPEDITION GRIMM exhibition is located in the documenta-Halle and sponsored by the State of Hessen. Between April 27th until September 8th, some of the Grimm brother’s most precious manuscripts and personal mementos will be on display. This unique exhibition also sheds new light onto who the Brothers Grimm really were: far from being mere fairy tale collectors, they were also language scholars, legal historians, and politicians.

There are incredible festivals to enjoy, including:
Grimm Fairy Tale festival, Hanau (from May 1st – July 1st)
Brothers Grimm Museum in the Castle Bellevue, Kassel
Brothers Grimm Festival, Kassel (from July 18th – August 18th)

One of the most significant Renaissance castles in all of Germany is the impressive Johannisburg Castle. The Johannisburg Castle features a front made of bright red sandstone, and is truly the landmark of the city of Aschaffenburg. The stunning castle is a spectacular sight along the shores of the famous, river Main. There is no better place for seeing breathtaking, historical castles than right here in the Frankfurt Rhine-Main region!

Additional events to plan on attending, include:
– Art Views 2013 in Offenbach (April 24th – 28th)
– Darmstadt Art Nouveau Festival (May 24th – 26th)
– Skyscraper Festival in Frankfurt (May 25th – 26th)
– International Jazz Festival “Bingen swings” (June 28th – 30th)

Please use the Contact Form below to submit your travel request to experience the Brothers Grimm celebration in the Frankfurt Rhine-Main region of Germany. We will promptly get back to you.

Corinthia London

Look Left Look Right invites everyone to “take the stage” as you journey through a night of adventure and suspense at the Corinthia Hotel London, a 294 room Victorian building including 36 suites and 7 penthouses with breathtaking views across London’s most popular landmarks.

A thrilling series of theatrical performances, entitled Above and Beyond, by the award-winning interactive theater company, Look Left Look Right, will take audiences on an exhilarating adventure. Hotel guests are invited to enjoy vivid performances through one-on-one interaction followed by world class luxury accommodations.

Located in the heart of London, Corinthia London is home to the flagship ESPA Life at Corinthia, a next-generation spa housed across four floors, plus its own Daniel Galvin hair salon. Enjoy fine dining at The Northall, serving the best in British produce throughout the day; modern Italian cuisine at Massimo Restaurant & Oyster Bar, and the musically inspired Bassoon Bar.

Corinthia London

Production of this play required the theatre company’s Artistic Director Mimi Poskitt and writers Morgan Lloyd Malcolm and Katie Lyons to take up residency at Corinthia London for a month. Stories about the hotel’s past and present will form part of the interactive experience.

With 24 performances per night scheduled, each participant will be guided through a number of mysterious encounters set around the Lobby Lounge and Victorian Ballroom to the previously unseen back of house areas. The play lasting 70 minutes will allow individuals to take part in approximately 15 scenes lasting ten seconds to seven minutes long.

Available March 18 through April 14, 2013, this unique luxury package includes 2 tickets for the Above & Beyond play held at Corinthia Hotel London and a one night stay in luxury accommodations followed by an English Breakfast for two in The Northall (based on two adults sharing).

You can learn more about about other luxury Corinthia Hotels in Europe.

Please use the Contact Form below to submit your travel request. We will promptly get back to you.