Luxury Stay at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai

With the new year here, the luxury Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai will become a top destination in 2017. Just opened last month, the new luxury resort in Dubai was launched by Nikki Beach Hotels & Resorts Ltd.

Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai becomes the fourth property in Nikki’s popular global portfolio of stylish beach and urban retreats. The opening follows the launch of Nikki Beach Dubai Restaurant & Beach Club in early 2016.

This luxurious resort and spa in the United Arab Emirates offers endless luxury amenities for their guests to enjoy. Found on Pearl Jumeira and adjacent to a gorgeous 450-meter long sandy beach, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai features 132 keys in addition to 63 private residences. With so many land and water activities available, this spacious property is definitely a luxury lifestyle resort.

In total, the property is 52,000-square-meters in size. Therefore guests can easily get some privacy and alone time. Enjoy the awe inspiring views of nearby Dubai skyline, plus the Arabian Gulf.

Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai

Guestrooms are equipped with individual climate control, wireless internet and also come with your own private balcony. In addition, enjoy mood lighting, a high-end entertainment systems, complimentary high-speed WiFi, plus a personalized minibar.

The room decor follows a beachside-chic aesthetic. Rooms and suites are decorated feature the bright whites, pale blues and natural wood elements that is Nikki Beach’s signature look. There is plenty of natural light in these spacious accommodations.

For those guests who stay in one of the beachside villas, you will have direct access to the beach, plus the property’s four private pools, sun-warmed terraces and private cabanas. What a VIP experience!

For those who want to get in a little exercise at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai, try the tennis court and and relaxing Nikki Spa and Tone Gym. Take advantage of the gym’s high-end Technogym fitness equipment.

Foodies will feel like they have gone to cuisine heaven. Feast at five different restaurant and lounges. Your dining choices include – Nikki Beach Dubai Restaurant & Beach Club, with globally-inspired fare in a beachside setting; Café Nikki, an all-day urban bistro; Soul Lounge, offering creative bites to complement chilled-out tunes and uplifting beverages, plus Nikki Privé, an exclusive lounge with perfect views of the sunset. Lastly, Key West is a blending of Floridian, Caribbean and Latin cuisine. This upscale restaurant will open later this year and promise to deliver a distinctive, fine dining experience.

Be sure to make plans to visit Dubai, United Arab Emirates and enjoy a luxury stay at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai. The Life of Luxury assist you with all your travel plans. Stop by again to read our luxury blog for more luxury travel ideas.

Photo: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai




Get Pampered in Florida with Seasonal Spa Treatments

With the Christmas holiday season and New Years over with, winter is still underway. Many parts of the world are experiencing cold weather. It’s time consider a much needed vacation and experience seasonal spa treatments in sunny Florida.

Two of Florida’s finest resorts are the Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa and Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa. These luxury resort properties offer the best amenities and luxurious accommodations. Best of all, be sure to enjoy their seasonal spa treatments.

During the Christmas season, several well known ingredients are Gingerbread, Peppermint and Cranberry. Both Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa and Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa have integrated these tasty treats in their respective, seasonal spa treatments.

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SiSpa at Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa
· Winter Rescue Treatment
Keep sinuses clear and the immune system strong with this purifying upper body treatment and Ayurvedic scalp massage. Perfect for those recovering from seasonal allergies or chest complaints, this treatment uses the essential oils of eucalyptus, tea tree and pine to decongest and boost natural immunity. Guests will leave refreshed and breathing freely. (50 minutes, $99)

· Hot Toddy Mani-Pedi
Features a Bourbon Bubbler scrub and a Red Hot Cinnamon oil massage with nail cleaning and cutting (100 minutes, $99)

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SiSpa at Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa

· Cranberry Orange Body Scrub & Wrap
Filling the room with festive scents of cranberry and orange, this treatment begins with a full body exfoliation with a cranberry orange scrub. Next, a detoxifying, antioxidant-rich mud masque is applied, followed by a gentle cocoon wrap. While wrapped, guests will receive a relaxing face and scalp massage to melt away tension. A rich cranberry orange body butter finishes off this delectable treatment to hydrate skin and lock in moisture. Guests can also opt for the Deluxe version of this treatment that includes a relaxing 25-minute massage. (50-minute treatment, $99; 80-minute Deluxe treatment, $150)

· Gingerbread Manicure & Pedicure
The perfect holiday mani for one hot cookie. Hands will be treated to a butterscotch effervescent vitamin soak, with chicory root and sweet almond oil for ultimate skin hydration. Next, a scrumptious brown sugar polish exfoliates and revives dry winter skin leaving behind a fragrance of gingersnap bourbon. Finally, before prep and polish begins, hands and feet will be thoroughly massaged with warmed, spicy caramel body milk. (80-minutes, $89)

· Guests can enhance their spa experience and rejuvenate the senses with an aromatherapy enhancement. Peppermint, eucalyptus and dwarf pine holiday scents are available. ($10)

Florida is a wonderful place to visit anytime of the year. It’s one of the top destinations in the U.S. and offers endless beaches and attractions to enjoy.

You can take advantage of the above seasonal spa treatments in sunny all through the month of January 2017. Beat the cold and get a pampering, VIP experience.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your vacation getaway to Florida. Get pampered at one of resort’s luxury spas and be treated to relaxing seasonal spa treatments. Return soon and follow our luxury blog.




El Palauet Living – A Luxury All-Suite Boutique Hotel

Located in Barcelona, Spain is the El Palauet Living. This immaculately designed luxury all-suite boutique hotel on Passeig de Gracia, makes this luxury hotel uniquely positioned to offer the lucky visitor a singular holiday experience. Guests can enjoy animated celebrations just steps outside the hotel’s front door. When the temps drop during winter, take advantage of the Finnish sauna to warm your chilled bones.

El Palauet Living is centrally located in the Gracia area, whose bohemian, cultural impetus is evident around every corner. The holidays are a spirited time in Barcelona, with schools closed and families spending much of the nearly two-week celebration together.

The streets of Barcelona are lined and decorated with colorful light displays. In lieu of Santa Claus, the Tres Reis Mags, the biblical Three Kings, or Magi, bring gifts for children aboard a tall-masted ship which arrives each January 5th at 5 in the evening to the Fuste Pier on Barcelona’s famous waterfront.

The all-suite, El Palauet Living hotel features six large 1600 square foot apartment suites. Each luxury and spacious suite offers the comfort, feeling, and familiarity of home. In addition, guests receive a highly personalized guest service program plus on-call personal assistants.

El Palauet Living is currently celebrating a milestone 5-year anniversary. The holidays are a spirited time in Barcelona and it’s a wonderful time to visit Spain and spend time touring the magnificent city of Barcelona. El Palauet is located in the Gracia area> Therefore, there’s a strong bohemian influence. Enjoy strong cultural at every street corner.

Barcelona is primarily a Catholic town. In fact, Christmas begins on December 24th and will continue until January 6th, which is called the Epiphany. This tradition utilizes the entire “12 Days of Christmas.”

The Catalan evenings come alive with a variety of artistic, lighting installations. The holiday lights line the streets to create a simply magical atmosphere. The annual Christmas parade (cabalgata) starts when the Three Kings get off their wooden ship. The Barcelona parade follows the major streets of the city. Once it arrives at the spacious Plaza de Catalunya, the Kings ride behind an array of floats and colorful Christmas adornments. A genuine VIP experience!

In addition to the beginning of a new Year, New Years also brings a tradition. At midnight with celebrations rockling all around Barcelona, partiers place 12 grapes into their mouth. Each grape represents each stroke of the clock.

Make your plans now to stay at the El Palauet Living luxury hotel in Barcelona. Take in the rich culture and enjoy a traditional Christmas celebration.

Our travel concierge specialists can help you plan and book your Barcelona stay at the El Palauet Living hotel. We enjoy sharing unique travel ideas in our luxury blog.

Photo: El Palauet Living




Hilton San Francisco Union Square – Holiday Bed & Breakfast Package

San Francisco is nicknamed the “City by The Bay.” Now is an awesome time to visit Frisco and enjoy the holiday season at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square hotel. In fact, take advantage of the hotel’s Hilton San Francisco Union Square’s Holiday Bed & Breakfast Package. It’s available until January 1, 2017.

The holiday package includes a Standard King room for just $179 per night – based on double occupancy. In addition to your accommodations, enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet for two in the hotel’s own restaurant – Urban Tavern. The Hilton San Francisco Union Square is definitely a world-class hotel. It provides awesome city views and a taste of international sophistication.

The Hilton San Francisco Union Square hotel features 1,919 guest rooms. In addition, there are 151 luxury suites. All rooms and suites offer great city views.

Staying at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square hotel, enjoy the best San Francisco offers. Your luxury hotel is nearby theater productions, shopping, plus the popular Union Square Holiday Ice Rink. San Francisco is a magical place during the Christmas holiday season.

Another Hilton property in the city is the Parc 55 San Francisco. This luxury hotel is offering the Parc 55 San Francisco’s Holiday Bed & Breakfast Package. Also priced at just $179 per night. Sleep in a comfortable Standard King room. The holiday package is for two people. In addition, you receive breakfast for two people in the hotel’s own restaurant – Cable 55.

Be sure to stop by the trendy, new Cityscape San Francisco Lounge. It’s found on the 46th floor of the Hilton San Francisco Union Square’s 46th floor. Enjoy signature cocktails, wines, small plates and appetizers. The big attraction is the unbelievable, 360-degree panoramic views of the entire Bay Area. Get a bird’s eye view of many of San Francisco’s most famous landmarks. Cityscape has become a popular spot to hang out in fun, social setting. The viewing lounge is open between 5:00 pm and 12:00 am seven days a week. You can read more at – New Cityscape San Francisco Lounge Offers Epic Views

If you are able to stay and take advantage of one of the 2 holiday packages, be sure to make the most of your visit. Shopaholics can enjoy the city’s largest collection of retail stores, department stores, boutiques and outlets. For theater lovers, see War Memorial Opera House is showing The Nutcracker. Of course when visiting San Francisco, take a ride on the world famous cable car. In addition, kids will love the chance to meet Santa Claus at Macy’s.

Photo: Hilton San Francisco Union Square




Get Festive in Italy with Five Italian Christmas Markets

Many people instantly respond to the traditional Christmas Markets in Germany. They are very popular during the holiday season and visitors travel from all around the world to enjoy them. Many are not aware that Italy also hosts their own. We would like to share five Italian Christmas Markets to consider.

If you are looking for an extraordinary VIP experience and travel to Italy for Christmas, then you need to make your plans now! There are still great travel deals available on short notice.

Fuoritinerario – Discover Your Italy is a boutique travel tour company that has a long history of of find off-the-beaten path opportunities. They have in depth knowledge of Italy and have offered to provide details on five Italian Christmas Markets.

These five Italian Christmas Markets provide tourist that chance to experience the rich culture of Italy. Enjoy great tasting food and drinks, plus a variety of products and souvenirs to purchase. Please take a look:

SANT’AGATA FELTRIA, EMILIA ROMAGNA (Now until December 20, 2016)
This medieval town is also known as Il Paese del Natale (the Christmas village). Its historic center becomes an enchanted place with the traditional sounds of bagpipes and handcrafted nativity on display all along the narrow alleys as well as in the Fregoso Fortress which dates back to 1000 AD. The market square hosts Santa’s home (reindeer included) and lots of fun activities for children organized by the elves!

CANDELARA, PESARO (Now until December 14, 2016)
Candele a Candelara, the Candelara candle light festival, is the first Italian Christmas market dedicated to candles. Apropos, since the name of this medieval town is derived from the Latin word for candle. During the celebration all electric lights go dark at fifteen minute intervals and the town glows only with candle light. Visitors can also wander through the town’s traditional Christmas market.

BOLZANO, SOUTH TYROL (Now until January 6, 2017)
Certainly the most renowned town in Italy known for hosting the country’s largest Christmas market or mercatini di Natale. For more than a month, the magnificently festooned Piazza Walther is filled with decorated stands, as well as the fragrance of cinnamon and mulled wine – making visitors feel as if they are in a fairytale.

AOSTA, AOSTA VALLEY (Now until January 6, 2017)
The Marché Vert Noël (Green Christmas Market) turns Aosta‘s Piazza Caveri into an alpine Christmas wonderland with twinkling lights, glimmering decorations, and adorned Christmas trees. Shoppers can browse handmade items including candles, holiday decorations, soaps, ceramics, wooden handicrafts and antique furniture, as well as clothing and accessories made from local wool, felt, hemp and lace.

MANAROLA, CINQUE TERRE (Now until February 1, 2017)
This lovely seaside town of the Cinque Terre hosts one of the most beautiful and original nativity scenes in the world – The Presepe di Manarola – with over 15,000 solar-powered light bulbs and 300 characters made from recycled or unused materials. Visitors can walk through a candy cane village, and take cooking classes preparing traditional Christmas dishes.

Discover Your Italy is owed by an Italian husband and wife team – Matteo Della Grazia and Daniela Mencarelli. Together they bring an enormous amount of travel knowledge and experience. Since 2007, they have become respected as experts in Italy travel. In addition to discovering the main attractions of Italy, get to know the cultural heart of this iconic country.

The Life of Luxury is available to help plan and book your luxury travel vacation. From visiting Italian Christmas Markets to gazing at the pyramids of Egypt to a romantic Mediterranean cruise, let us help. Stop by again to read our luxury blog for the latest luxury travel news and hot destinations. Our travel concierge team is available to assist.




Celebrate and Visit Sunny Florida During the Holiday Season

With the Christmas holiday season upon us, many people no longer stay at home. Increasing numbers travel to places all around the world. If a warm weather locale like Florida sounds tempting, you are in luck. Visit sunny Florida during the holiday season.

Two popular luxury properties in Florida are offering a variety of holiday festivities. Both the Naples Grande Beach Resort and The Marker Waterfront Resort Key West are top choices of many travelers this year.

Christmas to many people is the most wonderful time of the year. You may find it hard ot believe but the Naples Grande Beach Resort is the place to be. This premiere Southwest Florida resort has transformed into a holiday wonderland, that should not be missed. Spending time in Florida during the holiday season will treat you to long lasting memories. At the resort, enjoy the Naples Grande’s holiday tree that towers almost 10 feet tall.

In addition, there are 60 shimmering bottles of Veuve Clicquot champagne on display. The reason for the display is to pay tribute to the luxury resort’s upcoming 30th anniversary milestone. You will find Santa’s sleigh, but it’s no normal sleigh. Hop on the resort’s festive tram that has been decorated as Santa’s sleigh for the holiday season. For a luxury experience, the sleigh can take you right to the beach. How fun is that?

Below are a few activities and events at the Naples Grande Beach Resort this holiday season:

· Christmas Feast (adults $59 and $30 per little elf under 12) will include a variety of holiday favorites like Egg Nog, Mulled Apple Cider, Citrus Roasted Turkey, Prime Rib of Beef and a Dessert Buffet with holiday cookies and other seasonal offerings. Additionally, there will be a separate buffet for little elves under 12 to enjoy.

· New Year’s Eve Dinner (Price: $109) at The Catch of the Pelican, will feature a delectable four-course meal with tasty menu items, such as Truffle Cauliflower Soup, Iceberg Wedge, Black Trumpet Encrusted Filet Mignon and Butter Poached Lobster Tails and Hummingbird Cake for dessert.

· Grande Style New Year’s Eve Party (Price: $94.49) at the Royal Palm Ballroom in partnership with Beasley Media Group, will include passed hors d’ouevres, a midnight champagne toast, and feature sounds from Lovestruck Robot, a young, fresh, explosive band from Orlando, Florida. Lovestruck Robot has been featured on national television including the “The Voice” and the Today Show, and has played at popular venues, such as the World-Famous House of Blues and the Ritz Theater in historic Ybor City Tampa.

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Visiting Florida during the holiday Season is so much fun. You will fine The Marker Waterfront Resort Key West to be another terrific choice. This luxury resort can be found in the southernmost city of Key West, Florida. Foodies will love the variety of great tasting food being offered this time of the year.

The resort is also offering a creative holiday cocktail menu:

· Cuban Egg Nog (Crème de Vie), includes sweet condensed milk, evaporated milk, egg yolks, sugar, water, vanilla, white rum, and is garnished with a star of anise

· Bacon Bourbon Bloody Mary, includes Bacon infused Bourbon, House made Bloody Mary mix, garnished with candied bacon, a spicy green bean and a bleu cheese stuffed olive

· Cranberry Moscow Mule, includes ginger beer, lime juice, Vodka, cranberry juice cocktail, raw cranberries and lime
slices for garnish

In addition, The Marker will also be offering unique holiday programming, perfect for the whole family:

· Local Holiday Market and Concert (December 22), will feature local Key West vendors selling holiday gifts for purchase, as well as sounds of singer-songwriter and guitarist phenomenon Rusty Lemmon. Local vendors featured at the Holiday Market will include Tucker’s Provision, Wench Bracelets, Abigal Houff Jewelry, and Clay Pieces by Jennifer Franke. Also during the event, new local distillery Papa’s Pilar will be offering guests samples of some of their rum cocktails to be featured at the resort’s Cero Bodega restaurant.

· New Year’s Day Recovery Pool Party, will include a DJ, brunch specials, and vitamin B12 shots provided by Hangover
Hospital to help guests recover from their New Year’s hangovers. Hangover packages will start at $100 with add-ons available for purchase. Also, patrons who make a purchase at Cero Bodega during happy hour on December 30 and 31 will get a free B12 shot.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan your next luxury vacation. Consider a visit to Florida during the holiday season. Return soon and follow our luxury blog. Read about the best luxury travel hotspots!




Grand Opening of Blue Marlin Ibiza Los Cabos

ME by Meliá is a leading experience-based lifestyle hotel brand. They just celebrated the official, grand opening of Blue Marlin Ibiza Los Cabos beach club. This luxury venue in Los Cabos is sure to become a top destination for trendy travelers who desire ultimate fun.

The Blue Marlin Ibiza Los Cabos opened on Saturday, November 19. It becomes the first beach club destination in the Americas from premier international lifestyle brand, Blue Marlin Ibiza.

Blue Marlin Ibiza Los Cabos is the latest addition to the luxury hotel. Earlier this year, the hotel completed a comprehensive, $16 million renovation of all guest rooms, suites and public spaces. The goal of the project was to elevate the overall experience for its guests and highlight local Mexican culture within its design.

Since launching the partnership in June, with a series of monthly signature “Pop You Up” parties, Blue Marlin Ibiza has expanded service from the resort’s Beach Club to the encompass the property’s entire beachfront and pool deck – including all restaurants and Rose Bar, with service offered all day into the night.

Brand new menus have been created with Blue Marlin Ibiza’s signature blend of modern, Mediterranean cuisine with Asian and local influences, plus an expansive cocktail and bottle list, in alignment with the offerings at the brand’s destinations in global hot spots from Dubai to Ibiza.

Mattia Ulivieri is the Managing Director for Blue Marlin Ibiza Group. He was quoted, “We are thrilled to introduce Blue Marlin Ibiza to the Americas at ME Cabo. The resort and locale offer the perfect blend of sun, sea and international travelers looking for a world-class nightlife experience.”

As previously mentioned, Blue Marlin Ibiza Los Cabos is the first location at a hotel. It becomes the latest property in Blue Marlin Ibiza’s impressive collection of cosmopolitan beach clubs. You will find other luxury properties in a variety of trendsetting destinations, located from Dubai to Cannes.

The original plan was to take over the property’s Beach Club. After further research, expansion plans were set in motion to expand and encompass the entire beachfront pool area. This projected included the restaurant and bars. In addition, there are now accommodations to host greater than 500 total guests.

Blue Marlin Ibiza Los Cabos can be found on the ME Cabo’s pool deck. As a result, it overlooks the scenic Sea of Cortez, plus its world-famous El Arco rock formation.

The custom dual outdoor pool features a double decker swim up bar. There is a large DJ booth located on top. Therefore, the DJ has full control and can look out over the crowd. He or she can more easily interact with the party crowd.

The beach club’s deck is equipped by 3.14 Design Studio. The company decorated with bright blue and white tiling. The space is complemented with contemporary white furnishings. The result is a chic but laid back resort atmosphere. Perfect for good times under the warm Mexican sun.

If you want to party at the new Blue Marlin Ibiza Los Cabos, be sure to plan ahead. Reservations are highly recommended. Blue Marlin Ibiza Los Cabos is scheduled to be open seven days a week. Breakfast is served beginning at 8:00AM and lunch available starting at 11:00AM. Dinner service at the Beach Club Restaurant begins at 7:00PM. Both the Rose Bar and Dare are open at 4:00PM weekdays, in addition to 12:00PM on weekends.

Are you ready to party in Los Cabos? Make plans now to enjoy the new Blue Marlin Ibiza Los Cabos. We can help you make your luxury travel reservations. Stop by to read ur luxury blog for more travel news.

Photo: Blue Marlin Ibiza Los Cabos




Spend a Fabulous Thanksgiving at the BAUERs Il Palazzo in Venice, Italy

For those spending Thanksgiving in Venice, Italy should not pass up an amazing opportunity to have your Thanksgiving dinner at the the luxury BAUERs Il Palazzo hotel.

This ultra-luxury hotel in romantic Venice, Italy is offering a fabulous American-style Thanksgiving dinner, created by Chef Hiraki Masakazu, the celebrated chef at the hotel’s De Pisis Restaurant.

The Thanksgiving dinner will be served on Thursday, November 24th and will offer patrons an incredible dinner menu that celebrates American Thanksgiving cuisine with an international flavor.

Visitors from all around Venice, Italy plus the world are invited to enjoy this delicious Thanksgiving feast. Make it a special holiday time with friends and family.

The luxury BAUERs Il Palazzo hotel is the ideal place to stay while in Venice. It’s an intimate boutique hotel, centrally located Venice. It offers a truly authentic, Venetian-style experience and overlooks the world famous Grand Canal.

Chef Masakazu initially started his career in Italy 12 years ago, when he left Tokyo to immerse himself in the history and culinary traditions of Italy. He is now the Executive Chef of De Pisis Restaurant, which serves the ultimate in fine dining.

The Thanksgiving will consist of baked ham glazed with apricots and mustard and, plus roast turkey stuffed with dried fruits. Who doesn’t love dessert. This fine meal will appropriately end with an American favorite – apple crumble.

Complete Thanksgiving Dinner Menu:
– Baked ham glazed with apricots and mustard
– Chestnuts soup flavored with Brandy
– Roast turkey stuffed with dried fruits, pepper corn, roast sweet potatoes and blueberry sauce
– Pecan cake with ginger ice cream
– Petits fours

Price is Euro 90.00 and VAT included. Please note that beverages are excluded.

The Il Palazzo hotel is nearby St. Mark’s Square and close to Venice’s finest shops, museums and various sightseeing spots.

This Venice landmark hotel is much more than a basic hotel. The BAUERs Il PalazzoIt’s both elegant and luxurious and features a stunning Gothic facade.

If you would like to enjoy this amazing Thanksgiving dinner at the BAUERs Il Palazzo in Venice, Italy, then please contact The Life of Luxury. We can handle all of your travel arrangements.




Best Black Friday Travel Deals

Thanksgiving is just a week away and that means Black Friday and Cyber Monday are just around the corner. We want to share some of the best Black Friday travel deals from hotels and resorts around the world.

Many people enjoy traveling during the holiday season. As a result, they can find wonderful travel deals to take advantage of. The crowds are less and savings galore can be had. What more is there? Take a look at these great deals and start packing for that luxury travel experience. Vacation in VIP style!

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Meliá Braco Village
This charming all-inclusive resort features 226 guest rooms, with 61 suites, six restaurants and three bars. Guests can enjoy relaxing spa treatments at the luxurious YHI Spa while listening to the sound of calming ocean waves before taking a dip in one of two stunning pools located at the resort. Guest rooms feature thoughtful touches like free minibar items including local Jamaican products and plush bathrobes. The property was most recently awarded with “Caribbean’s Leading New Hotel 2016,” its first honor from World Travel Awards.

Winter Season Offers:
· Winter Resort Credit of US$550 for stays of 4/5 nights – Travel: Dec. 23, 2016 – April 30, 2017
· Winter Resort Credit of US$1300 for stays of 6+ nights – Travel: Dec. 23, 2016 – April 30, 2017
· For bookings made from now through November 29, 2016 for Travel from Jan. 3 to April 15, 2017 rates are available starting at: US$178 per person per night in double occupancy.

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Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite
Just two miles from Yosemite National Park, the resort features newly renovated rooms, on-site snow play activities, multiple dining venues and the world-class Ascent Spa.

· Winter Season: Midweek winter stays from January 8 – March 27 only $129 per night
o Promo code- WINTERDEAL
*Offer valid 1/8/17 – 3/27/17 for deluxe rooms. $20 additional for premium rooms. Limited time offer. Blackout dates 2/17-2/19; 3/9-3/11; 3/16-3/18. Subject to availability, restrictions and additional blackout dates may apply. Not valid with any other offer. Must use promo code at time of booking.

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Naples Grande Beach Resort
Located in Southwest Florida, Naples Grande Beach Resort is Naples’ premier luxury independent resort featuring 474-guestroom including 29 gulf view suites and 50 bungalow suites plus more than 83,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Every room features a private balcony with direct views of the Gulf. Guests of the hotel have access to five on-site restaurants and bars, three heated outdoor pools, a full-service luxury spa, 8,000-square-foot fitness center, business center and an award-winning tennis facility with 15 courts. The property is surrounded by 200 acres of a protected mangrove estuary intertwined with a system of bridges and elevated walking paths that afford access to three miles of beachfront on the Gulf of Mexico.

· Cyber Monday: The resort will offer $99 room rates for stays from Sunday – Thursday between June and September. Blackout dates apply and pricing excludes resort fees, parking, incidentals and taxes.

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Lotte New York Palace
Located opposite of Manhattan’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Lotte New York Palace is a luxury hotel combining a 19th-century landmark mansion with a 55-story modern tower. The stylish rooms and suites provide free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, desks and upscale toiletries; upgrades include furnished outdoor decks with sweeping Manhattan views, dining tables, minifridges, 24-hour room service, and stocked cocktail bars. There’s a French-influenced bakery, the newly opened Villard Restaurant, an old-world salon, a traditional tavern and a cocktail lounge. Other amenities include a spa and a fitness center with steam rooms.

· Cyber Monday: The hotel will offer a Cyber Monday Preview Sale available from November 14- November 24, 2016, with up to 20% off room and suites. Eligible stays for the offer are November 18-April 17, 2017. Rate is fully prepaid, and deposit is non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-transferable. Blackout dates may apply.
· Cyber Monday: The hotel will offer a Cyber Monday Exclusive with booking dates between November 25- November 28, 2016, with up to 50% off suites. Eligible stays for the offer are November 18-April 17, 2017. Rate is fully prepaid, and deposit is non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-transferable. Blackout dates may apply.
· Cyber Monday: The hotel will offer a Cyber Monday Extended Sale available from November 29- December 5, 2016, with up to 20% off room and suites. Eligible stays for the offer are November 18-April 17, 2017. Rate is fully prepaid, and deposit is non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-transferable. Blackout dates may apply.

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Meliá Nassau Beach All-Inclusive
The luxurious Meliá Nassau Beach All-Inclusive, a Meliá Hotels International resort, is situated on a 1,000-foot stretch of white sand along the Atlantic Ocean on Nassau’s Cable Beach. The 649-guestroom property offers stunning views, comfortable accommodations, luxury amenities and globally-inspired cuisine. From spectacular shows and live music, to drink service on the beach and around the pool, this is the ideal destination in the tropical paradise of Nassau Beach. The resort recently introduced new restaurants and an enhanced experience for guests of THE LEVEL, Melia Hotels & Resort’s elevated service concept. For more information, please visit the official website.

· Black Friday: FREE Airport – Hotel – Airport transfer on us
o US$400 in Resort Credits for a 6+ night stay or US$200 in Resort Credits for 4+ nights
§ That’s up to US$400 per stay, per room to spend on:
· Room upgrades
· Romantic Dinner
· Late check-out
· Food & beverage

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The Gideon Putnam
Located in the heart of Saratoga Spa State Park, Gideon Putnam Resort & Spa is a National Historic Landmark Hotel is a 120-room property with a full-service restaurant and bar, gift shop, fitness center and the historic Roosevelt Baths & Spa. Since its opening in 1935, the spa has drawn guests to its legendary baths for the believed restorative benefits of the region’s famed natural mineral spring waters.

· Saratoga Shop-n-Staycation Package- Starting at $109 and Includes:
o Overnight accommodations at The Gideon Putnam
o Saratoga Springs shopping discount card – 10% off at over 100 shops and restaurants in downtown Saratoga Springs
o Promo code- GIDSHOP

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Cliff House Maine
Nestled across 70 oceanfront acres atop Bald Head Cliff on the southern coast of Maine, Cliff House offers unrivaled experiences that are accessible, exceptional and spectacular. Acquired by Rockbridge along with Maine Hoteliers Marc Dugas and Peter Anastos, the property recently reopened following a landmark revitalization. Cliff House reemerges from this transformative renovation as one of the most captivating coastal destinations of its kind with distinct restaurant and bar concepts, The Tiller, Tidemark Terrace and Nubb’s Lobster Shack, under the direction of Executive Chef Rick Shell.

· Cyber Monday: The resort will offer a promo available that day only, with room rates at 30% off and lowest room rates at $144 in celebration of Cliff House Maine’s 144 years of history. Eligible stays for the offer are January 5-April 30, 2017. The offer is both prepaid and nonrefundable.

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The Westin Buffalo
The recently opened downtown Buffalo hotel features 118 luxurious guest rooms, 4,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting facilities, a restaurant operated by Delaware North’s Patina Restaurant Group, and all the Westin brand’s signature services and amenities designed to inspire wellbeing.

· Cyber Monday: Discounts of up to 15% off Best Available Rates for stays through September 4, 2017 [national promotion with Starwood]

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If you are interested in booking a luxury travel vacation, please contact us today! Take advantage of these Black Friday travel deals from hotels and resorts around the world. There also Cyber Monday travel deals to consider. This time of the year is always perfect to book your trip and save money.

We hope you enjoyed reading about the best Black Friday travel deals on our luxury blog. Our travel concierge specialists can assist you. Hope to see you back again.




Experience Luxury and Nature at the Lansdowne Resort, Virginia

Leesburg, Virginia is a historic town about 33 miles northwest of Washington D.C. For a luxury stay in a beautifully renovated property, stay at the Lansdowne Resort. Leesburg was founded in 1758 and is a fabulous town to visit. It’s rich with historic sites and churches. You can view Ball’s Bluff Battlefield Regional Park, where the first Civil War engagement took place in Loudoun County, Virginia. There’s also Loudoun Museum, Thomas Balch Library, Morven Park, Leesburg Town Hall, The Marshall House and Oatlands Historic House and Gardens.

Lansdowne Resort overlooks the scenic Potomac River and is part of the respected, Destination Hotels collection. It is currently completing a multi-million dollar renovation project that will tremendously transform this historic hotel. The property sits upon 476 acres of beautiful country. 2016 is a special milestone, as the luxury resort celebrates its 25 year anniversary. Special events, as well as discounted package deals are offered throughout the year.

Each of the luxury resort’s 296 guestrooms are receiving a complete redesign. The renovation efforts also include the property’s luxury Presidential Suite and signature suites. The Presidential Suite is 1,000 square feet in size. Staying in this luxury suite is truly a VIP experience. The new decor utilizes a relaxing mix of textures and hues. The result is the ideal compliment to natural surroundings of this luxurious resort in Virginia. Additional decor highlights include hardwood floors, upgraded finishes and fabrics, plus custom handmade area rugs.

Skip James is the Director of Sales & Marketing at Lansdowne Resort and was quoted, “The renovations to Lansdowne will not only elevate the guest experience, but will bring a modern, refined look to the property. These exciting enhancements will further solidify our stature as a leading luxury resort in Northern Virginia.”

As previously mentioned, all of the guestrooms are currently being remodeled. From clean-lined furnishings to textured fabrics, the rooms offer an inviting, residential ambiance. Leveraging Northern Virginia’s wine country, the decor also integrates gorgeous artwork with images that depict the beautiful grounds, farm fields and natural landscape. I nice touch is the room’s art frames are made from wine corks. Very creative! Techies won’t be disappointed either. The rooms include the latest technology for both pleasure or business travelers.

Given the location of the Leesburg resort, it is very appealing for vacationers, corporate retreats, weddings and honeymoons, or a simple romantic getaway for the weekend. Enjoy the natural surroundings, in addition to the many, local sightseeing options. Be sure to explore Virginia Wine Country and try the great tasting wines offered at the nearby wineries.

Also, since it’s so close to Washington D.C., the resort is a popular destination for conferences. It offers about 55,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. You will find a spacious, Grand Ballroom that measures 9,525 square feet for large formal gatherings. Perfect for business retreats, utilize the complex’s 37 centrally organized meeting rooms. There’s also a 126-seat amphitheater for media events, as well as 3,293 square foot Terrace Ballroom.

For additional information about Lansdowne Resort, please visit their website – www.lansdowneresort.com

The Life of Luxury is available to help you plan and book your next trip. If traveling to Virginia, stay at the luxury Lansdowne Resort in Leesburg. Return again to read more travel stories on our luxury blog. We enjoy sharing the latest, luxury travel industry news.

Photo: Lansdowne Resort




6 Spooky Luxury Hotels – More Halloween Chills and Scares!

As Halloween nears, it’s time once again to share more ghost stories. We all like a good scare when we know we’re really safe. But what about when you are in a scary, unknown environment? Do you have a spine chilling story to share. We want to share 6 Spooky Luxury Hotels.

This is a follow-up to our popular article published just last week – 5 Spooky Luxury Hotels We highlighted 5 luxury hotels covered by Tauck, a leading travel tour provider. Halloween is a time of ghoulish tales and all that is creepy.

The list of 6 spooky luxury hotels was determined by feedback from greater than 200 of the travel company’s tour directors. Their input helped create this list of the best, spooky luxury hotels from around the world.

Here are 6 spooky luxury hotels that we are happy to share with our readers. With Halloween right around the corner, think twice if you see or feel something strange during your next hotel stay. Boo!

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Westin Excelsior Florence (photo above)
(Florence, Italy)
· Politicians and celebrities from Bill Clinton to Tom Cruise have enjoyed stays at the elegant Westin Excelsior Florence, but then again, they’ve probably never tried to sleep in room 152.

· One of the smaller rooms at the hotel, room 152 is routinely used to house Tauck Directors leading the company’s “Italian Lakes, Venice, Florence and Rome” tour. At least three different Tauck Directors have all reported “feeling watched” and having other unnerving experiences in room 152, but perhaps the most deeply affected was Debi Holmes-Binney.

· Holmes-Binney was quoted, “I was so convinced that room 152 was haunted that I absolutely refused to stay on the first floor at all. I actually went down to the concierge at midnight in my jammies because I was so scared To this day, if they told me I had to stay in that room I’d go to another hotel.”

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Grand Hotel Parco dei Principi
(Rome, Italy)
· A more playful spirit appears to inhabit the five-star Grand Hotel Parco dei Principi in Rome. Created by architects Massimo and Maurizio Papiri, the hotel and its décor recall the opulence of villas owned by Rome’s nobility in the 1600s.

· However, the charms of the Parco were sometimes lost on Tauck Director Andrea Orri when he led trips for the company in Italy, particularly when he stayed in room 523. “I’ve stayed at the Parco dei Principi about a million times, and each time I slept in room 523 the lights would go on in the heart of the night and the curtains – with the window closed – would start moving,” recalls Orri.

· Like many Tauck Directors, Orri is frequently housed in the same room at a given hotel by the hotel’s management. Often these rooms have some aspect that makes them somewhat less appealing to regular hotel guests. They may be smaller than standard rooms or offer a less scenic view – or perhaps they have issues of a more supernatural nature? For his part, Orri became so familiar with the apparent poltergeist in room 523 at the Parco that he eventually nicknamed him “Jimmy.”

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Fairmont Le Chateau Fronentac
(Quebec City, Canada)
· Tauck Director Britta Svensson nominated the imposing castle-like Chateau Frontenac, a landmark hotel in Quebec City, for a spot on the list. Britta and several guests on one of her tours each saw a strange man sitting on a windowsill in the hotel, only to have him suddenly vanish.

· According to the hotel, it was likely the apparition of Louis de Buade, Comte de Frontenac, for whom the property was named. De Buade was a 17th century governor general in Quebec. He’d left instructions that, upon his death, his heart was to be sent in a decorative box to his fiancé in Europe. However, his distraught fiancé was too grief-stricken to accept the unique memento, and it was returned to Quebec.

· To this day, de Buade is said to wander the hotel, still seeking to be near his beloved.

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Grand Canyon Lodge – North Rim
(Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona)
· Tauck Director Cindy Walker had a strange experience while traveling with a colleague, Jim Hahn, during the development phase of Tauck’s “Spirit of the Desert” tour. While staying in the guest cabins at the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, Cindy was awakened at 3:33 AM when the phone in her cabin (#328) rang. She answered, but no one was on the line. The following morning, Jim called Cindy on her cell phone and mentioned he couldn’t get through to her by dialing her room number on the property’s phone system. Curious, Cindy checked her in-room telephone and was shocked to see that it was unplugged.

· Cindy told the front desk about her experience, and their response was, “Yeah, it’s probably the ghost.” More recently, while again staying at the North Rim cabins with a Tauck group, Cindy overheard a guest complaining about getting a phone call in the cabin at 3:30 AM – and once again, it was in cabin #328. “Spirit of the Desert” indeed.

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Ahwahnee Hotel
(Yosemite National Park, California)
· Guests on Tauck’s “California’s Gold Coast” tour spend two nights in Yosemite’s rustic yet luxurious Ahwahnee, but apparently other guests of the hotel refuse to check out – even after “checking out.” Tauck Director Cindy Walker adamantly refuses to stay on the sixth floor after having had strange experiences there, and it’s also the sixth floor that she later learned may be haunted by the ghost of Mary Curry Tressider. Tressider was instrumental in the hotel’s development, and she lived in an apartment on the sixth floor until her death in 1970. Shortly after her death, reports of an apparition moving about the sixth floor became common.

· Another unusual story involves the Ahwahnee’s third floor, where President John F. Kennedy stayed during a visit to Yosemite in 1962. A rocking chair had been placed in Kennedy’s room prior to his arrival, because the chair’s motion helped alleviate his chronic back pain. After Kennedy’s death, housekeepers began reporting the presence of a rocking chair, rocking slowly in the room where the President had stayed – despite the fact that the room hadn’t ever been furnished with a rocking chair after Kennedy’s visit.

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Parador de Cardona
(Cardona, Spain)
· The Parador de Cardona in Cardona, Spain, hosts Tauck guests for lunch on Day 3 of their 14-day exploration of Northern Spain and Portugal, and perhaps it’s better that guests don’t spend the night.

· This massive, former fortress in the foothills of the Pyrenees dates back to the year 789, and it once helped secure territories re-conquered from the Moors. Today this luxury property hosts discerning travelers, many of whom have reported seeing apparitions in medieval dress, including armor-clad soldiers.

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Feel free to share our 5 Spooky Luxury Hotels with friends and family. In addition, be sure to read our article titled – History of Halloween – Holiday for Both the Rich and Poor

We hope you loved our 6 Spooky Luxury Hotels article. Please come back soon and follow our luxury blog. Our talented, concierge service staff is ready to assist with your luxury vacation plans.