The phone receptionist at Bencotto Italian Kitchen said we were very lucky to get a reservation for two at 7:30 pm (the same day), but that she just had a reservation cancellation. Good sign or bad sign? — We’ll just have to see … but we expect a wonderful fine dining experience.

Arriving, we were promptly seated at a table for two overlooking the restaurant on the second floor, (good table to view the goings-on). We were ushered through a vibrant scene that seemed to grow by the minute. Animated conversation permeated the atmosphere, as everyone seemed to really be enjoying themselves – (a good sign).

Our Bencotto Italian Kitchen server, a young lady named Corrie welcomed us and gave us the low-down on their specials. A Napa Valley Alias Chardonnay ($11) and a Birra Moretti (Italian beer) ($7) were ordered to start things off.

A shared appetizer of eggplant parmigiana ($14), was ordered and was delicious. My son then ordered the Bencotto house lasagna alla bolognese, (meat and besciamella sauce) ($18), and I ordered house-made gnocchi al formaggi, (excellently prepared potato dumplings in a beautiful Alfredo-type sauce)($16). Both were excellently prepared. — All pastas are freshly made on the premises, which is definitely a plus.

Lastly, a complimentary after-dinner offering of Lemoncello topped the evening off. Unfortunately, there was no room in our satisfied tummies for dessert.

This wonderful place must be a gold mine! Food this delicious served in such an electrically vibrant atmosphere has to be a recipe for success.

If you’re looking for a quiet intimate atmosphere where hearing every spoken word is important, you may want to consider another restaurant. However, if you desire some of the most excellently prepared Italian food in San Diego, Bencotto Italian Kitchen is a must!

Buon Appetito!

Enjoying a fine dining experience is always a great time to spend with friends and family. When in San Diego, be sure to eat at Bencotto Italian Kitchen restaurant. If you need help booking your next luxury travel itinerary, contact us today. Be sure to stop back to follow this luxury blog and read more fine restaurant recommendations.

Author: Val Patacchi
Hawaii Critical Care Supply, LLC
Hawaii Critical Care Supply

It’s hard to deny the cuteness of California sea lions basking in the sun. San Francisco is celebrating the 26th anniversary of local sea lions making the world famous Pier 39 their home.

But there’s a little more to this story than you think. The San Francisco Bay Area was hit with a large earthquake on October 17, 1989. Many of you may remember the Loma Prieta earthquake occurred during Game 3 of the baseball World Series between the Oakland A’s and San Francisco Giants. The series was titled the “Battle of the Bay.”

The 6.9 magnitude earthquake killed 63 people and injured almost 4,000. But a fascinating event amidst the damage and chaos occurred. California sea lions suddenly began appearing at Pier 39 in the Marina. By January of 1990, greater than 500 California sea lions had surprisingly arrived. The Pier 39 K-Dock became their new home and provided bountiful food from San Francisco Bay. The mammals also enjoyed a protected environment.

Based on a recommendation from The Marine Mammal Center, the cute California sea lions were allowed to stay. They have been a popular, Pier 39 attraction in Francisco ever since. Now 26 years later, literally millions of tourists and Bay Area locals have enjoyed viewing the California sea lions in person.

Pier 39 is an open-air marketplace with two levels. Encompassing 45-acres, the waterfront complex features over 120 restaurants, shops and attractions. It’s one of the most popular sightseeing stops for visitors to the scenic, City by the Bay.

From January 15 to 18, you can celebrate the sea lions with free Sea Lion Encounter Walking Tours. Each tour lasts about 20 minutes and is very educational. You’ll learn information about the California sea lions plus receive discounts for Pier 39 businesses. The tour ends at the Sea Lion Center and you can enjoy special exhibits from The Marine Mammal Center and Aquarium of the Bay.

The popular Aquarium of the Bay features two incredible, clear acrylic tunnels. The tunnels hold about 700,000 gallons of salt water and marine life from the San Francisco Bay.

The tours begin at the Sea Lion Statue west of the Pier 39 Entrance Plaza at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm. This year’s Sea Lion Anniversary is included along with a Pier 39 campaign, with a goal of supporting the Sea Lion Center’s educational programs. In addition, they hope to continue educating people on creating and maintaining sustainable environments for sea lions around the world. The Sea Lion Center is open daily between the hours of 10am and 4pm.

While visiting the The Sea Lion Center, guests can view and actually touch numerous sea lion artifacts. On display are skulls, pelts and a life-size sea lion skeleton. For additional information, please visit – Sea Lion Center

If you would like to support the pier’s Sea Lion Center’s free daily presentations and classroom programs for students and visitors, please feel free to make a donation. Your money will help continue all the wonderful efforts that have been accomplishments so far.

Plan a visit to San Francisco and visit Pier 39 and see the California sea lions up close. Also stop in The Sea Lion Center and Aquarium of the Bay. The Life of Luxury can help plan and book your travel itinerary. If you enjoy reading about luxury travel ideas, the follow this luxury blog for more great ideas.

Photos: Pier 39

Many people don’t realize that Las Vegas is one of the top destinations in the world during the Christmas holiday season. We just reported in a recent article – Christmas in Las Vegas – A Top Destination for Christmas Travel. Visitors get the chance to view some the most gorgeous, luxury holiday decorations found anywhere.

I had the pleasure of spending a week in Las Vegas over the Christmas holidays. It’s hard to put into words, but the luxury holiday decorations were quite over-the-top. I would expect nothing less from Las Vegas. It’s the city where dazzle shines and spectacular resorts, casinos and stage shows draw millions of visitors each year.

The holiday season is a wonderful time to visit Las Vegas. Obviously the 100 plus degree temps are long gone. We were surprised how chilly it actually got. A couple days, the morning low temps were in the high 20’s. We also experienced several days of very strong winds, which made it feel a bit arctic.

Here is a video clip of the elevator ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower. When we reached to top, the winds were howling! But the awesome views of all of Las Vegas made it so worth it.

Las Vegas has always had that competitive spirit as the various resorts and casinos try to outdo each other to allure the crowds. The Christmas holiday season is no different. It’s a spectacular display of luxury holiday decorations everywhere you look.

I wanted to share a couple of my favorite memories. For a true VIP experience while visiting Las Vegas during the holidays, be sure to make your plans for later this year to see it yourself in person.

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The Palazzo Las Vegas:

The Palazzo Las Vegas Resort and Casino was by far, my favorite Christmas display. Each year, The Palazzo Waterfall Atrium and Gardens morphs into a wonderful, winter wonderland. The holiday display is beautiful and features 20 foot tall trees that are snow-covered and surrounded by golden snowflakes.

There are literally thousands of bright red poinsettias plants placed all around this luxury resort. For the ultimate wow factor, be sure to see The Palazzo Waterfall Atrium and Gardens. It was definitely a must see during this holiday season.

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Bellagio Hotel & Casino:

Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
We knew the luxury holiday decorations at the Bellagio were going to be special. The line was long and each person, both young and old, was anxious to enter the display area. Nobody was disappointed and you could literally hear the sounds of appreciation and joy all around.

You’ll be immersed in a dazzling display of blinking lights, and almost 30,000 poinsettias plants. There is a gorgeous White Fir holiday tree standing 42 feet high. The tree has 7,000 LED lights and 2,500 beautiful holiday ornaments. The tree was flanked by a large Jack-in-the–box and a huge stocking and countless oversized presents.

Popular with the kids, a North Pole display included a mother polar bear made up of 12,000 white carnations. Playing nearby were her two young polar bear cubs. There was also a family of cute penguins hanging out around several  igloos.

The image at the top of this article consists of two snow globes that were 12 feet tall. Each of the globes consisted of creative and detailed winter scenes. Next to them was a large, rocking wooden horse sitting among red Poinsettias plants and a couple of snow flocked trees.

Nearby was another display with a 14-foot snow tunnel as the center piece. People lined up to walk inside and feel like you were surrounded by snow fall. It was enclosed by silvertip fir trees and more lush Poinsettias.

Fountains of Bellagio:

Of course the incredible Fountains of Bellagio is one of the top attractions in Las Vegas to see anytime of the year. But during the holidays, the fountain show comes alive with the sounds of Christmas. Listen to your favorite Christmas songs such as O Holy Night, Hallelujah Chorus and Santa Baby. The crowds were large around the large lagoon as the anticipation rose, waiting for the next dancing water performance. What a festive and impressive event to behold.

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The Shops at Crystals:

The Shops at Crystals shopping center at CityCenter is an incredible place to walk around. From one end to the other, it’s filled with the top luxury brand retailers in the world. You can shop at Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Christian Dior, Jimmy Choo, Saint Laurent, FENDI, Dolce & Gabbana and many more!

But for the holidays, Crystals is decorated in luxury style. There are thousands of fresh flowers found around the mall. The main display is a towering, 50 foot tall Olympia Pine Tree decorated in white LED lights.
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Everybody should make a visit to Las Vegas during the Christmas holiday season. There are a lot of people that come to Sin City, but it makes it that much more magical. Everyone is in a festive mood with big smiles on their faces. It makes losing money while trying your luck gambling a little more bearable.

Please contact us if you would like to vacation in Las Vegas. Whether it’s to see the luxury holiday decorations during the holiday season or any time of the year, Las Vegas is a special place. Please return again to read more luxury travel stories in our popular luxury blog.

Photos: The Life of Luxury

Wildland Adventures is offering a wonderful opportunity to view a solar eclipse with their Spice Islands Solar Eclipse Sailing Adventure package. This once-in-a-lifetime event is a must for travelers who want a unique and rewarding, VIP experience.

The Spice Islands Solar Eclipse Sailing Adventure package focuses on the upcoming a total solar eclipse, directly over the Equator above the remote Maluku island group of Indonesia.

Passengers will cruise on classic, two-masted sailing schooner. The Indonesian ship will offer an intimate setting as only 24 passengers will set sail on the Ombak Putih. The cruise is 12 days in duration and departs March 7, 2016 and returns March 18. After flying from Bali, travelers will depart from Ternate.

The highlight of this luxury cruise coincides with the total solar eclipse on March 9. The luxury cruise ship will anchor at location 0.4˚N, 127.4˚E. This point is only 24 nautical miles north of the Equator. It’s the ideal place, since it’s right below the track of the moon’s shadow or umbra. The advantage is passengers can experience the solar eclipse for the longest time possible.

With a current $1,000 discount now being offered, the Spice Islands Solar Eclipse Sailing Adventure package is available for $5,495 – per person double rate. What a wonderful chance to view a spectacular show put on by Mother Nature.

The luxury cruise will be amazing as you sail by uninhabited islands with lush, jungle landscapes and majestic volcanoes. Passengers also get the chance to take guided day excursions and evening lectures by escort and guest lecturer Jeffrey Mellefont. He is the research associate of the Australian National Maritime Museum. His experience and wealth of knowledge will enhance your journey. Get the chance to learn more about the cultures, natural history and local customs of the area’s archipelago.

There will be numerous, onboard activities to enjoy during your cruise. The ship provides kayaks, snorkels, paddleboards and much more to have fun in the warm waters. Once on land, take part in a community beach dinner plus tour local farms and even a clove plantation that produces kayu putih oil.

While on the island of Ternate, guests the the chance to visit the old house of Alfred Russel Wallace. He was the British explorer and naturalist that spent years on the island exploring the archipelago. What is fascinating is while Charles Darwin was developing his theory of evolution in the Galapagos, Wallace was doing the same on Ternate.

But of course, the main event will be the total solar eclipse. A partial eclipse stats at 08:35 am (23:35:45 UTC + 9) and the total eclipse gets underway at 9.51 am. The peak maximum eclipse occurs at 9:52:38. While anchored on the Ombak Putih ship, you will get to experience total eclipse for three minutes and 16 seconds.

After the eclipse ends, you embark once and gain and partake in a crossing-the-line ceremony while cruising across the Earth’s equator.

Wildland Adventures was named the #1 Best “Do-it-all” Outfitter on Earth by National Geographic Adventure, as well as one of the World’s Best Tour Specialists by Fordor’s. Wildland Adventures clients 150 unique itineraries covering 37 countries on 6 continents.

Would you like to experience viewing the next total solar eclipse? Then contact The Life of Luxury today to book your 12-day Spice Islands Solar Eclipse Sailing Adventure cruise package to Indonesia. Come back soon to follow our luxury blog and read about other amazing, luxury travel excursions.

Photo: Wildland Adventures

Located in the bustling area between Chelsea and the Meatpacking District in Manhattan, New York City – the luxury Dream Downtown hotel features a luxury guesthouse.

Dream Downtown hotel opened in 2011 and has been a popular place for both visitors to the Big Apple, as well as business travelers. This incredible boutique hotel can be found at 355 W. 16th St. in Manhattan. The luxury hotel offers guests 315 rooms and suites.

The stunning Dream Downtown hotel guesthouse is located on the top of the south tower. The two-story guesthouse, which measures about 2,500 square feet recently completed a complete renovation.

The $1 million makeover was done by Josh Held Designs. The luxurious penthouse has a spiral staircase that leads to a beautiful terrace. Enjoy your favorite music in any room with a state of the art entertainment system.

When you come to New York City, you expect the best. It’s the greatest city in the world and you have numerous luxury hotel choices. Enjoy a VIP experience and stay in one of the best properties. This luxury guesthouse is ideal for social gatherings and other events.

Dream Downtown Hotel is conveniently located near Chelsea Market, The West Village and The High Line. Make this luxury hotel your launch pad for a wonderful stay in NYC.

For nightlife action, party at The Beach. During summer, it’s a popular spot. With a real sand beach and glass-bottom pool, it’s an oasis among tall skyscrapers. The beach features a full-service bar and a pulsating DJ booth. We love the decor as it’s surrounded by a ring of 70 Cote D’Azur-inspired chaise lounges. Relax and enjoy your favorite cocktail

Make your trip to New York City a memorable one and stay in VIP style. How about experiencing luxury in the Dream Downtown hotel penthouse? Our travel specialists can help plan and book your Big Apple itinerary. Return to read more travel industry stories on this luxury blog.

Photo: Dream Downtown

For those of us who enjoy a luxury travel getaway, we want to make sure we have good quality luggage. The new Pelican ProGear Elite luggage from Pelican Products, Inc. is an excellent choice for discerning travelers.

Pelican ProGear Elite luggage is almost indestructible. It was well designed and carefully made to help withstand the ongoing challenges of everyday travel. From packing your bags, to baggage handling at the airport to a porter service at a luxury hotel, our suitcases take a beating.

This suitcase line is waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about your contents getting wet from an unexpected thunderstorm. Defy the elements Mother Nature throws at you. Now just worry about keeping your hair dry, no longer your luggage.

Pelican ProGear Elite luggage is guaranteed for life. Built to last, the luggage was molded of high impact polymer. It comes fitted with a watertight O-ring seal that was designed to keep water out and your contents moist free.

The hard shell that’s crush-proof gives you peace of mind that your personal belongings will be safe no matter where you go and what careless, airport gorilla is handling your suitcase.

The design of the luxury luggage includes a clever travel system. Included is a toiletry kit, lid organizer and zippered shoe sack. Two of the suitcase models – 27 inch Weekender and 30 inch Vacationer – also include a laundry bag and garment bag.

You would expect a sturdy piece of luggage like this to be heavy. Surprisingly it’s not and rather lightweight. The 22 inch Carry-On weights just 9.2 pounds (21.6 x 13.9 x 9.0″). The 27 inch Weekender weighs 12.2 pounds (24.6 x 16.9 x 10.8″) and the 30 inch Vacationer model weighs 15.6 pounds (28.5 x 19.8 x 12.6″).

Another nice feature is the luggage comes with a waterproof purge valve. This allows the suitcase interior to vent and at the same tie, blocks moisture from getting in.

For added security, the suitcase includes an integrated combination lock that is TSA-approved. The luggage line is quite easy to maneuver with its custom-designed, solid-hub wheels.

Tired of all the black bags spinning around the airport carousel? So are we. Spice it up and choose your favorite color. Pelican ProGear Elite luggage is available in several vibrant colors. The exterior of each bag is black (charcoal) but you have a choice of trim colors – black, blue, red, purple or orange.

You can find the new luggage collection form Pelican Products, Inc. online at either Cabela’s or Amazon. The suggested retail price ranges from $475 – $645.

Looking for a reliable and trendy looking set of luggage? The new Pelican ProGear Elite luggage could be the answer. Look good and travel with one less worry. Return often to read more travel industry articles from our informative luxury blog.

Photo: Pelican Products

Paradisus Resorts is a popular, all-inclusive luxury resort brand that is owned and operated by Meliá Hotels International. Paradisus Resorts is offering several, luxury holiday events for its resort guests.

With several events just successfully finished for the Christmas holidays, there are additional ones planned for New Years. There is something for everyone this holiday season including a group of friends, couples, and each member of your family.

Paradisus Resorts has put together various activities at two of their Mexico properties – Paradisus Cancun and Paradisus Playa del Carmen. In the Dominican Republic are Paradisus Punta Cana and Paradisus Palma Real.

Below is a summary of the exciting events scheduled at the below, luxury resorts.

Paradisus Cancun Resort:
Located on the white sand beaches of Cancun, Paradisus Cancun Resort is an exclusive beachfront resort. It offers the ideal luxury accommodations for your perfect, holiday getaway.
· New Year’s Eve party, December 31, 2015:
– GLOW IN THE NIGHT, is a festive “White” party that will be held in the luxury hotel’s gorgeous ballroom. The room will morph into an amazing, neon party. In addition, it will include a VIP area that includes Moet & Chandon champagne bottle service. This event is available for the entire family.

Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla & Esmeralda:
Located at the luxurious, all-inclusive resort, Paradisus Playa del Carmen – La Perla & Esmeralda, guests get the chance to enjoy the holidays in VIP style. This luxury resort will have a New Mayan Era party and more. It makes it the perfect, holiday paradise for those who appreciate the good life.
· New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2015:
– Enjoy a European New Year’s cocktail (6pm), New Mayan Era party (10pm), Warriors from the past show (10:15pm). DJ Ft. Julia Figeroa will bring in the New Year with DJ Kunjan from New York City.
o Two special dinner seatings will be available at Hadar or NAOS either at 7pm or 9pm

Paradisus Punta Cana:
Found next to the stunning Punta Cana Beach, the luxury Paradisus Punta Cana Resort is the idlea vacation spot to enjoy your time in Caribbean during the festive, holiday season.
– On New Years Eve, have fun at the following:
o Goodbye 2015 Children Party
o Gala dinner at The Reserve with Live Band – For the Families
o Gala dinner at Paradisus Punta Cana with Live Band – For the Families
o New Year’s Party at Paradisus Punta Cana – This Party is for clients of both Paradisus Resorts in the Dominican Republic. Have a great time and surprises for everyone with international Djs, musicians and much, much more.

Paradisus Palma Real:
Enjoy a Dominican Republsig travel getaway on the scenic, beachfront of the gorgeous Bavaro Beach. The resort will be all decorated for the holidays with an array of lights. Families can enjoy many activities that are both wellness and health, plus kid-friendly activities and exciting nightlife focused events.
· Nightlife events: The hotel will have live music and entertainment provided daily at Gabi Beach and The Reserve
· On New Year’s Eve, there’s planned a special performance on by Miami band Carlos Oliva y los sobrinos del Juez

It’s time to escape the winter weather and enjoy a tropic VIP getaway at one of the four Paradisus Resorts named above in Mexico and the Dominican Republic. We can help plan and book your entire luxury travel itinerary. Read our luxury blog to learn about other VIP experiences at the top travel destinations around the world.

Photo: Paradisus Resorts

The BAUERs Il Palazzo hotel in Venice, Italy will be hosting a fabulous Christmas dinner. Make this landmark hotel the perfect choice to enjoy an unbelievable, VIP experience.

The BAUERs Christmas experience is offered each year and provides a festive and memorable time for all. This year’s event will be held at the De Pisis Restaurant, which is the gourmet restaurant at the Il Palazzo hotel in Venice, Italy.

It’s a time to relax and enjoy the Christmas holiday season in an elegant environment. Whether it’s with family or friends, make this a magical night. Located near the world famous Grand Canal in Venice, the opportunity to eat a fine meal at De Pisis Restaurant should not be missed.

The dinner will be offered on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Enjoy a six-course meal that will tantalize your taste buds. The dishes will all be inspired by both Italian style and taste.

On Christmas Eve, your dinner has a fish theme, beginning with Cuttlefish confit and Scallops. They will be served in a tripe ragout that sounds so delicious. For your first course, try a mouth-watering Seafood risotto with fishmonger, scaled, mussels and shrimps. Next is an enticing roasted sole with cardoons, horseradish and tasty applesauce. Finish your meal with a tasty pomegranate sorbet and the warm Panettone with mascarpone and coffee.

Guests who come on Christmas Day will be treated to a wonderful dinner consisting of a delicate duck salad. Next will be a serving of marinated beef and pieces of crispy polenta. There will be pleasant risotto and the braised veal cheek. For dessert lovers, end your meal with pomegranate sorbet plus divine chocolate bar that will be adorned by candied orange and pistachio gelato. Yum!

As you gaze out the window of De Pisis Restaurant at the Il Palazzo Hotel, be sure to savoir the incredible views of the nearby Chiesa di Santa Maria della Salute. What a fine dining treat.

This is a dressy occasion and you will be able to appreciate good company, wonderful ambiance and a terrific meal. Experience the beauty of Christmas at The BAUERs.

Spend Christmas in Venice, Italy and enjoy a fine dining experience at The BAUERs – Il Palazzo Hotel. The Life of Luxury can help you plan that last minute trip to Europe and see the amazing sights of Italy. Return often to follow this luxury blog. Read about the latest luxury travel news and package deals.

Photo: The BAUERs

Looking for a luxury stay in Costa Rica? Consider the Villa Buena Onda boutique hotel for an amazing, tropical VIP experience.

Villa Buena Onda is an adults-only hotel and features eight guest rooms that are quite spacious. The locals call it VBO for short, but it’s an ideal place to stay for newlyweds, couples or anyone wanting to celebrate a romantic getaway in the beauty of Costa Rica.

You will find Villa Buena Onda on north-west corner of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. The Guanacaste Provence doesn’t receive as much rainfall, so the warm and dry climate makes it an ideal destination for vacationers.

The views from the hotel are incredible. You can see the property’s salt water infinity pool, a chaise lounge area and lush green lawn. As you gaze further out, the nearby town of Playas del Coco and blue waters of the gorgeous Pacific Ocean take your breath away.

Foodies will like that all your meals are included in your hotel stay at Villa Buena Onda. There’s a covered patio on the first floor where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can order from the restaurant’s la carte menu. Rest assured all meals are fresh and made to order!

This Costa Rica boutique hotel takes attention to detail to another level. From the curved wall of the lap pool to the relaxing lounge area, each level of design has a purpose. The furniture that was chosen is not only of the highest quality, but blends in perfectly to the natural setting that surrounds the hotel.

After a busy day sightseeing or playing in the Pacific Ocean, consider a relaxing massage. On the second floor, there is an open air terrace that faces the open ocean. Unwind, listen to the music and give in to a tremendous massage.

Another must do is taking a dip in the lap pool. After splashing around, be sure swim up to the outdoor bar. You’ll find five seats and can order your favorite cocktail or drink of choice.

Be sure to get out and try something adventuresome. Ask the hotel’s concierge desk for recommendations on what to see and do. They can help make your arrangements like a local guided tour or a tranquil boat ride to a quiet beach. There are many activities such as fishing, snorkeling, or swimming in the Pacific Ocean.

For an unbelievable vacation in Costa Rica, stay at the Villa Buena Onda hotel. Get close to nature and enjoy this luxury, boutique hotel. We can assist with your travel plans. Read our luxury blog to hear about more top vacation destinations around the world.

Photos: Villa Buena Onda

If you are planning to spend a quiet Christmas in Las Vegas this year, you will not be alone. According to a recent PR from Priceline.com – Las Vegas is the top destination for travel this Christmas season.

Christmas in Las Vegas is magical with an abundance of holiday cheer and dazzling Christmas lights and beautiful holiday decorations.

Many people want to escape the chilling cold weather and desire a warmer destination to enjoy their Christmas vacation. Las Vegas is a great choice but even though summer temps sizzle over 100 degrees, don’t expect that in December. Las Vegas can of course be warm, but don’t be surprised for much cooler weather. Even snow is possible, but rather rare.

If you check out the list of Most Popular Destinations for Christmas Travel 2015 from Priceline based on hotel reservations, you’ll see many popular cities.

The 25 top city destinations are listed below:
Las Vegas, NV
Orlando, FL
New York City, NY
Orange County, CA
Miami, FL
San Francisco, CA
San Diego, CA
Chicago, IL
Los Angeles, CA
New Orleans, LA
Phoenix, AZ
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Washington D.C.
Atlanta, GA
Seattle, WA
The Florida Keys, FL
Puerto Rico
Dallas, TX
Honolulu, HI
Cancun – Cozumel, MX
Denver, CO
San Antonio, TX
Hampton Roads, VA
Pigeon Forge – Gatlinburg, TN
Costa Rica

Since 2013, the following 4 cities in the U.S. continue to dominate the list – Las Vegas, Orlando, New York City, and Orange County.

The top 25 list did have some shuffling that we wanted to point out. Atlanta made a big jump, up from #43 to #14. Tampa moved from #45 to #29. Washington ended in the #13 spot, up from #32 last year. Nashville came in at #50, up 22 spots from #28.

One of the reasons many people want to spend Christmas in Las Vegas is because of the great deals on hotel rates. Taking a look at the average daily hotel rates under $100 per night, Las Vegas makes that list. Other cities include Pigeon Forge-Gatlinburg, San Antonio, Atlanta, Tampa and Hampton Roads.

If you considering a Christmas in Las Vegas getaway, The Life of Luxury can help plan and book your luxury travel itinerary. We have access to many, exclusive travel deals. Come back often to follow our luxury blog and stay abreast of the latest travel news and top destinations around the world.

Photo: Bellagio Conservatory Botanical Garden.

The tropical country of Belize is located in the Western Caribbean. Now you have an opportunity to invest in arguably the most luxurious rainforest resort in the entire Latin America region.

Located in 1,000 acres of private Belizean rainforest, adjacent to the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve is a boutique nature resort that provides a truly, eco luxe sanctuary. This area of Belize offers the culturally rich Maya ruins along with and an impressive, local ecosystem.

This exclusive development is comprised of only 25 eco luxe residences, but just ten units are for sale. As an owner, you receive freehold title and are entitled to 30 days personal use p/a. The remaining time for each residence is rented out as part of the property’s luxury hotel. Owners will get 40% of the net rental income from each residence.

Each Belize residence is decorated with a central theme of stylish Old World Colonial charm. Each area of the design has been carefully blended with superb furnishings and unique pieces of antique furniture brought in from across the world. Each residence bedroom has a four-poster bed that were locally handcrafted using indigenous Belizean hardwoods.

Built to take advantage of the beautiful rainforest views, your luxury retreat has a large outside deck that has been suspended in the canopy. Just sit back, relax and enjoy natures’s tropical sights and sounds. Your dream of living among nature can actually come true. Enjoy a VIP lifestyle.

In total, there are 13 detached deluxe residences, 8 luxury residences and no more than 4 spacious two-bedroom residences. The deluxe residences feature greater than 700 sq ft of total living space that includes a beautiful indoor and outdoor bathroom. The luxury residences provide 1,000 sq.ft of living space. They come with a large wooden floating deck and with a private plunge pool. The two-bedroom residences offer 1,800 square feet of living space and feature a central open-air living room. In addition, you will have two individual bedroom suites with en-suite indoor and outdoor bathrooms.

As owners of the Belize residences, you will have access to the following amenities on the property – lodge & pool, bar & lounge, natural Maya spring pools, cigar lounge, wine cave and the luxury spa. What a great way to live and what a wonderful place to live.

Pricing for the luxury residences in Belize begin at $230,000 US.

If you are interested in learning more or possibly purchasing a Belize Residences unit, contact us today. To keep up on other luxury real estate news, follow this popular luxury blog.