If you are traveling to Switzerland this winter to try either skiing or snowboarding, then be sure to check out the new Ski Safari program at The Alpina Gstaad luxury hotel in Switzerland.

Both snowboarders and skiers will love this adventure deal. The new program allows you to either ski or snowboard at up to three different Alpine resorts in a day. What a terrific opportunity to ski at some of the best resorts in Europe and do it all VIP style.

This luxury travel package begins at The Alpina Gstaad luxury hotel with a private shuttle service in either a Range Rover Autobiography or Mercedes V-Class sedan. You will transported to the nearby heliport in Gstaad. Next, board a helicopter for a scenic 25 minute ride that provides awesome views. You arrive at St. Moritz Corvatsch, which places smack in the middle of the world famous ski area of St. Moritz.

Enjoy your time skiing or boarding for several hours, then it’s off to your next luxury ski resort. Head back to the airport and the helicopter takes you to Zermatt’s Testa Grigia. Testa Grigia is on the Italian part of the iconic Matterhorn mountain.

Spend a few more hours at this popular, Swiss ski resort and grab a delicious lunch in the town of Zermatt. It’s back to the airport for another helicopter ride. This time your destination is back to Gstaad, where you can ski there until the sun goes down on a fabulous ski day in the picturesque Swiss Alps.

The price for the Ski Safari at The Alpina Gstaad begins at CHF 12,000 or around US $11,910. The price includes one night in a Deluxe Room Schönried at The Alpina Gstaad hotel and breakfast, your private shuttle to and from the airports at Gstaad, St. Moritz and Zermatt, all your helicopter trips, ski passes at all three ski resorts and lunch. The ski package also includes a CHF 100 culinary credit plus all your taxes and even the VAT.

Eric Favre is the managing director at the hotel and was quoted, “Our discerning clients often have special requests. The Alpina Gstaad’s staff has experience in providing the unexpected.”

For more information about The Alpina Gstaad’s Ski Safari and its other winter packages and programs, please visit Alpina Gstaad

This winter, take a luxury travel getaway to remember. Whether it’s to a tropical location with warm weather or a ski vacation to a top ski resort around the world, go in VIP style. In Switzerland, choose the The Alpina Gstaad hotel. Remember to stop by again and read our popular luxury blog. The world awaits and it’s time to start your journey and explore it.

Photo: The Alpina Gstaad

When complete, the first, luxury cruise liner built in China will be greater than twice as large as the Titanic. Although it won’t be making its maiden voyage until 2020, the new China cruise liner will be massive.

The luxury China cruise liner will be built by the largest largest shipbuilder – China State Shipbuilding Corp or CSSC. In a joint venture with Carnival Corporation, the two companies signed a staggering £2.6 billion agreement. Carnival is the largest cruise ship operator in the world, so it’s a great fit to help build the biggest China cruise liner.

In addition to the two companies named above, China Investment Corp (CIC) is also involved in the joint venture. CIC is one of the biggest sovereign wealth management funds anywhere in the world.

The focus is to clearly create a new luxury cruise-line industry in China and capture a share of this booming, worldwide market. Chinese travelers have caught the cruise bug and are cruising in record numbers. Tourist industry analysts are projecting that mainland Chinese travelers will spend approximately US$11.5 million on cruises by 2018. That number was about US$6.8 billion in 2013, so the estimate is almost doubling

The new cruise ship is expected to carry about 5,000 passengers and weigh about 130,000 tons. The ship will also be about 300 meters long.

Alan Buckelew is the Global Chief Operations Officer at Carnival and was quoted, “This joint venture is a significant step forward for the cruise industry in China and a tremendous opportunity … to increase awareness, interest and demand for cruise vacations among domestic Chinese travelers.”

The role that Carnival Corp will fulfill in this joint venture is to do “ship design and shipbuilding expertise”. Carnival currently operates to other cruise line brands – Princess Cruises in China and Costa Cruises.

To give you a great example of how much mainland China travelers love to cruise, they accounted for about a 45% increase over 2013, totaling almost 740k passengers in 2014. We expect 2015 to also show a large year over year increase.

As China continues to grow as a leading travel country, we should see more news on new cruise ships and joint ventures to capitalize on the business opportunity.

Contact The Life of Luxury to help book your next luxury vacation. Would you like to be one of the first passengers to sail on the new China cruise liner in 2020? Return again to read about the latest luxury news and cruise industry press releases by following this popular, luxury blog.

A luxury chalet is one of many traditional wooden lodges found in the scenic Alps of Europe.  Most people don’t immediately place a luxury tag to a log cabin, but don’t be misled. Many of these chalets are spectacular and luxurious, in every sense of the word.

While a luxury chalet may certainly look comfortable, it would be hard to say that a log cabin is in any way luxurious. Just like hotels, a winter luxury chalet comes in many sizes and categories. We want to share some of these luxury winter chalets that can stand up to any luxury villa and hold its own.

La Grande Roche Chalet in Corchevel, France
It’s the perfect place for the entire family with it’s designer interior, private cinema room and pool. La Grande Roche in Corchevel (photo above) even comes complete with a home theatre. This three-level luxury Chalet is intended for an ultra-exclusive family vacation. The entire first floor is dedicated to space for children, with the remaining 550 square meters are a paradise for adults. Below ground, there is also a pool, fitness area, and yes, its very own private home theatre.

Aurelio Clubhouse in Austria: The Chalet butler
This exclusive nine-room Chalet is connected to the five-star Hotel & Spa Aurelio by an underground tunnel. Yes read this correctly – a tunnel. In addition to the normal necessities of luxury Chalet life, this ski palace also has a 24-hour butler. Six double rooms, two junior suites and a master suite provide space for up to 20 people. In addition to the onsite wellness oasis, the fireplace in the library is an excellent place to curl up and relax.

Zermatt Peak in Switzerland
Here’s a winter chalet that is fit for even master spy James Bond. A true Alpine jewel, this luxury lodge has been nominated for numerous international design and architecture prizes. With a look that would make the perfect backdrop for a James Bond film, there are five bedrooms, a spa area complete with sauna, an outdoor whirlpool, fitness room, and an indoor pool. Whew. No need to be tired, there are four staff onsite that attend to whatever else you might need.

Chalet Maria in St. Anton, Austria
Antique charm, paneled ceilings, and rich parquet flooring provide an impressive first look at this lovely Chalet, which is widely known as the most stylish in the entire region. From the generous main hall, guests can enjoy the stunning Alpine panorama, and despite the traditional atmosphere, rest assured that this 550 square meter hide-away is outfitted with all the modern technology you could need.

Chalet Ref. Voglite in Val d’Isere in France
A one-time convent, Chalet Ref. Voglite in Val d’Isere retains some of the air of seclusion necessary for its former duties to this day. That being said, there have since been some updates… An interior pool leads outdoors into the snow-covered mountain world. Sauna and massage room are both right next door, and each of the four bedrooms features its own private bath.

Chalet Maria in St. Anton, Austria
Antique charm, paneled ceilings, and rich parquet flooring provide an impressive first look at this lovely Chalet, which is widely known as the most stylish in the entire region. From the generous main hall, guests can enjoy the stunning Alpine panorama, and despite the traditional atmosphere, rest assured that this 550 square meter hide-away is outfitted with all the modern technology you could need.

Please contact The Life of Luxury to book your travel reservation and stay at a luxury chalet in the Alps of Europe. If you enjoy reading about luxury travel, then return and follow this popular luxury blog.

Isola Bella is Sicily’s famous nature island preserve. Italy’s Ragosta Hotels Collection has combined “luxury with nature” with the launch of its chic new boutique resort, La Plage Resort.

La Plage Resort was created to attract the growing travel trend of up-market travelers seeking an extraordinary hospitality experience that incorporates elements of their own lifestyles, including modern yet stylish accommodations and innovative dining options.

La Plage Resort opened as a five-star boutique property with only 61 guestrooms and suites. La Plage Resort was designed by the architecture firm of Pantha, and created on the philosophy of “luxury based on nature.”

The luxury resort is located in a secular pine forest, and all design aspects and furnishing feature natural elements such as stone, woods and plants.

Below are some of La Plage Resort amenities:

Guestroom and Suites:
* Standard Rooms
* Bungalow Garden View Rooms
* Bungalow Sea View Rooms
* Deluxe Bungalow Sea View Rooms
* Suites
* Deluxe Suits

Dining:
* Fusion Restaurant featuring Italian and Asian cuisine overlooking Isola Bella
* Lounge Bar located near Fusion Restaurant
* Seaside Bar with refreshment services
* Reception halls with accommodations for up to 200 guests

SPA/Fitness:
* On-site ExPure SPA facilities featuring four-person Jacuzzi, emotional shower, Turkish bath, massage room, relaxation area with tea corner and Panoramic solarium
* Gym

Additional services and signature amenities at the resort include: in-room customized toiletries from ExPure SPA, Amaretto Lazzaroni cookies, luxurious linens, robes and towels.

In addition to enjoying the uber-luxury items in the guestrooms and villas travelers will be able to customize their hotel stay in the manner in which they are accustomed but with an element of surprise and pure decadence.

For additional information, please visit La Plage Resort

The Life of Luxury can make your luxury travel dream come true. Travel the world and stay at the best luxury hotels like the La Plage Resort in Italy. Why settle for second best? Come back often to view our luxury blog. Read about the latest luxury travel news.

Courtesy of: La Plage Resort

Spending summers under the warm sun while lying on the plush beds of your superyacht charter sundeck is like a dream come true. You can cruise along the shores of Italy or swing by majestic Sardinia for a touch of class. How about cruise by the Balearics for incredible parties under the moon? Taking a luxury cruise on a superyacht is a dream come true.

Taking a superyacht charter is a VIP lifestyle experience that everybody should do at least once in their life. Relax and the sundeck and read a captivating book or sip on your favorite cocktail. You can cruise by one of the many UNESCO heritage sites strewn along the coastline it can be fun to have plenty of toys to play with on your luxury trip.

For example, the MY Starfire believes in being excited by the high-tech toys of the yachting world. The superyacht charter works hard to offer only the best tenders and toys so your enjoyment is fulfilled. Take your own seabob down beneath the blue waters and surround yourself with the fishes. Slide on down the superyacht’s slides into the warm waters of the ocean or seas. For music lovers, listen to your favorite songs via a state of the art sound system. These are just a small sample of what is available these day for the ultimate yacht charter VIP experience.

Quadski:
James Bond eat your heart out, the Quadski manages to toe the line somewhere between a high powered jet ski and a 4×4 land vehicle. Picture yourself setting out from MY Starfire, tearing across the coastline and as soon as you hit land. Seamlessly changing your floating device into a land quad without even having to pause for breath. Intrepid explorers who want to be mobile both on land and water without having to change vehicles. The impressive Quadski is endless fun.
Submarine:

Imagine drifting down deeper than anyone has ever gone before and not even getting your hair wet. With the innovative, exciting and incredible exploratory toy of the submersible you can sink down to discover ancient ruins, shipwrecks, coral and a fleet of sea monsters. Anyone who has ever dreamed of living Jules Verne’s Twenty Thousand Leagues Beneath the Sea are sure to have their imagination sparked by taking their own submarine into the depths of the ocean.

Flyboard:
Sure wakeboarding is fun, but flying is a lot more fun! The Flyboard is something from another world, a glimpse into the future and get your blood pumping through your veins. Attached to a jet ski the Flyboard allows you to propel to dizzying heights above the water. Then dive back in to create a splash. Imagine that first moment when you realize you are actually flying up to 12 meters above the glazed surface of the sea, casting your gaze across the bay and literally walking on air – even if only for a few moments.

Seabob:
For those who adore diving and snorkeling but wish they could stream through the water to cover more ground and capture even more evocative sights – then welcome to the wonder that is the seabob. The seabob allows you to skim the surface or sink down and buzz around below the waves at speeds of up to 20kph, the result is a splash of fun, even more maneuverability and complete freedom below and above the glittering hues of blue.

Outdoor Cinema:
Not all superyacht accessories have to take you off board and into the water. Having an outdoor cinema on your superyacht charter is truly something special. For those evenings when you are too relaxed or tired to step ashore you can curl up beneath the stars with your favorite film. The outdoor cinema is placed on the deck transforming the space into a movie lover’s heaven. Imagine the moon as your lantern, the sound of the sea providing a background melody and homemade ice cream from the chef as you fall in love with film all over again.

If you desire to sail on the open seas in a superyacht, consider MY Starfire and enjoy a luxury superyacht charter. The Life of Luxury can help plan and book your next luxury travel vacation. Keep up on the latest yachting and travel news by following our luxury blog.

Lake Geneva is located in the French-speaking part of beautiful Western Switzerland. As winter gets closer, we are highlighting 7 reasons to love Lake Geneva.

The Lake Geneva region is a top destination in Switzerland. People from around the world come here all throughout the year to enjoy the scenery and immerse themselves in the area’s rich culture and history.

So whether you are looking to try wine wasting in the Lavaux vineyards, take a boat our on Lake Geneva or visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site that overlooks Lake Geneva and the towering Swiss Alps, enjoy your stay.

1) Modern Times Hotel:
To compliment the Chaplin Museum, the Modern Times Hotel will be open in autumn/winter 2015. Located in Vevey, this luxury 4-star hotel welcomes both leisure and business travelers. The Modern Times Hotel has 145 rooms and also offers a fitness room, 5 conference rooms, and a bar/lounge.

2) The Hotel Royal Savoy Reopens in Lausanne:
The legendary Hotel Royal Savoy just reopened after a $100 million project that included both an expansion and renovation. Found in Lausanne, the luxury Hotel Royal Savoy is a five-star property. This hotel was a favorite of royals when it first opened up back in 1906. The hotel’s grand façade still remains, although a major new addition was completed. The Hotel Royal Savoy features 196 rooms that included 37 suites and junior suites. For 360° panoramic views of Lausanne, the Swiss Alps and scenic Lake Geneva, be sure to try the new rooftop Sky Terrace.

3) Chaplin’s World:
The Modern Times Museum which will open in new Spring 2016. This museum will be dedicated to the life and times of filmmaker and actor Charlie Chaplin. The museum is situated in Chaplin’s mansion/ The property is surrounded by 34 acres of gorgeous gardens, winding pathways and terraces that offer incredible views of Lake Geneva and the nearby Alps.

4) Christmas Markets:
The Montreux Noel is the most famous Christmas Market in Switzerland. This year, the event celebrates its 21st anniversary. You will find greater than 150 craftspeople who decorate their colorful chalets all along the shores of Lake Geneva during winter. It’s a popular event and the area attracts around 500,000 visitors. The Christmans market is open now until December 24, 2015.

5) Ski Deals:
Get great deals at some ski hotels for just CHF20 ($20 US). Ten participating 10 hotels include Glacier 3000, Les Diablerets and Villars. Enjoy these ski hotel deals between January 4 to February 5 and again through March 7 to April 10, 2016. The Super Pass Gstaad-Alpes Vaudoises-Adelboden-Lenk allows skiers to access about 630 kilometers of ski slopes and 188 lifts.

6) Tout un Monde:
High above the lush vineyards of the Lavaux in the village of Grandvaux, Tout un Monde overlooks the Alps and Lake Geneva. The new Tout un Monde restaurant offers a fine experience and incredible food from chef Yohan Magne.

7) Château‐d’Oex: The International Hot‐Air Balloon Festival:
The amazing village of Château-d’Oex will again be the host of the 38th annual Festival International de Ballons. This festival runs between January 23 and 31, 2015. Château-d’Oex is surrounded by mountains and nice weather. Attendees can expect to see greater than balloons from 20 countries. Look up tot he sky and enjoy the show!

The Life of Luxury can help you plan a trip to Lake Geneva, Switzerland. We can reserve and book your air travel, hotel accommodations and local sightseeing. Return often to follow this luxury blog and read about other luxury travel destination around the world.

Photo: Régis Colombo / Lake Geneva Region

The Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun is a luxury resort that truly represents vacationing in VIP style. This top Mexico property is your gateway to the bustling area of Cancun and all the city and surrounding area has to offer.

Cancun is a popular tourist destination all yearlong. It offers travelers beautiful turquoise water, about 14 miles white sand beaches, great Mexican cuisine, and a thriving nightlife. Explore the Mecican Yucatan Peninsula. But for a rewarding VIP experience at a top luxury resort, stay at the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun.

The luxury property offers 602 all-suite ocean front accommodations. Each suite includes a private terrace that directly faces the Caribbean Sea and a gorgeous lagoon-like pool. For a VIP style stay at the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun, be sure to try one of the resort’s or nearby luxury experiences.

Diamond Massage:
Get pampered with one of the luxury spa treatments at the award-winning Coral Beach Gem Spa. Get a massage or facial treatments that integrates dust that was made from actual diamond crystals. For example, the spa’s Diamond Dust Body Exfoliation and Massage uses a mud masque that’s applied to the client’s skin. Once the masque is removed, receive a relaxing, magnetic body massage. Next you get a tension-relief massage to take away your body’s aches and pains. What a VIP experience! Your skin will look and feel revitalized and your body will be ready to enjoy the rest of your vacation.

Explore Mayan Ruins:
Be sure to explore the local Cancun area and enjoy the ancient ruins. First visit the Maya Museum (Museo Maya de Cancun) to learn about the history of the ancient Mayan civilization. Nearby is a historical archeological site named San Miguilito. This place dates back to 1250-1550 AD. You’ll discover several pyramids and other primeval structures. You can almost imagine what it was like back in the height of the Mayan civilization by walking along the ancient paths. There are also three exhibit halls to view various archeology, mosaics and other ancient Mayan artifacts. It’s a very rewarding experience and an insight into ancient history.

Mexican Fine Dining:
For an outstanding dining experience, enjoy a meal at La Joya Restaurant. As the authentic Mexican restaurant of Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun, resort guests can dine to delicious Mexican cuisine. Tequila is the national spirit of Mexico. Be sure to try the restaurant’s 3-tiered tasting offer. First learn more about the history of tequila and how it’s made. Then sample Blanco with a hint of salt and lime wedge. Next it’s Reposado and served with a drink of “sangrita.” This classic Mexican accompaniment is incredible. Last, Añejo Tequila which has a bit of a spicy taste.

The luxury Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun resort is the perfect place for a one-of-a-kind getaway. Be sure to also stop by the resort’s Grand Club. It takes up the top two floors and features luxury services and amenities. There’s a pool, dedicated lounge and even 24-hour concierge service. Live it up VIP style!

If you have been considering a vacation to Cancun, Mexico, then be sure to stay at the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun resort. Contact us for help booking your luxury travel reservation. Come back again to read this luxury blog for other top destinations around the world. Live a life of luxury!

Photo: Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun

When one first arrives in scenic Lake Tahoe, words cannot describe the natural beauty of this tranquil setting found high up in the majestic Sierra Mountains. To enjoy all that this alpine area has to offer, be sure to stay at the luxury Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel.

This gorgeous property is the only all-suite hotel found in South Lake Tahoe. Formerly named the Embassy Suites Lake Tahoe Resort, this resort is situated in the perfect location to take advantage of all of the indoor and outdoor activities that the stunning Lake Tahoe area offers to visitors.

Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel is found at the base of Heavenly Mountain Resort ski resort. You’ll find Harrah’s Lake Tahoe hotel to the left and the Shops at Heavenly Village to the right. Up and down Lake Tahoe Blvd, you’ll enjoy countless casinos, restaurants and shopping. Because the property is on the California side of South Lake Tahoe, it does not have an on-site casino.

There are 400 all-suites at the Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel and they all offer two rooms. There is a roomy lounge and dining area, plus a spacious bedroom and bathroom. Each suite has either a King bed or two queen beds. The large lounges area has a sofa bed and coffee table to relax and watch TV or socialize with friends and family. In addition, find a large dining table and soft upholstered chairs to enjoy a meal or late-night snacks. There is a small kitchenette that comes with a mini refrigerator, a microwave oven and a sink.

The bedroom is very nice and has plenty of closet space and drawers to store your clothes and personal belongings. You’ll find another wall mounted TV to watch while laying in bed. Speaking of the comfortable bed, its fitted with 200-thread-count linens for a night of peaceful sleep. The bathroom is very nice and equipped with a long, marble vanity, a shower and bathtub.

What I really like about this luxury property is all rooms overlook a huge central atrium on one side, and local Lake Tahoe area views from the large bedroom window.

The Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel property has numerous luxury amenities including a year-round indoor pool that’s heated The perfect place to have fun anytime of the year. There’s also a hot tub and outdoor sundeck to take in the beautiful Lake Tahoe scenery. Stroll around three garden atriums or ramp up your cardio in the resort’s state-of-the-art fitness center. For a little pampering after a long day or skiing, hiking, biking or canoeing – be sure to take advantage of the various in-room massage and spa services for a VIP experience.

People say a good breakfast is the best way to start your day, well the Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel provide a delicious and complimentary, buffet breakfast during your stay. Try a wide selection of choice of both hot and cold items, such as pancakes, french toast, eggs, made-to-order omelettes, fresh fruit, muffins, toast, oatmeal, cereal, yogurt, pastries and more. There is also unlimited drinks included – coffee, milk, various juices and hot chocolate.

For lunch or dinner, no need to even leave the property. Echo restaurant serves great tasting seasonal fare – steak, chicken, pizza, burgers, sandwiches and much more! Enjoy a great, classic American cuisine meal without the high prices you would typically expect to pay.

Before you head out to one of the popular nightclubs, catch a stage show or try your luck gambling at one of the many Lake Tahoe casinos, stop by the two hour Happy Hour that occurs each night from 5:30-7:30 pm. Socialize in a relaxing setting and enjoy complimentary beer or some of your favorite cocktail and spirits. There are also various snacks to munch on and feed your appetite.

One of the most popular activities to do while visiting Lake Tahoe, is to take the M.S. Dixie II boat cruise. Choose from a lunch or dinner cruise and see the beauty of this alpine lake and cross over to Emerald Bay and back. During the non-skiing months, be sure to head over to the Heavenly Ski Resort gondola station, which is just a couple minute walk from the resort hotel.

If you would like to visit scenic Lake Tahoe and stay at the luxurious The Lake Tahoe Resort, please contact The Life of Luxury today. We can help plan and book your Tahoe stay. To read about other wonderful luxury travel destinations around the world, please return to follow our popular, luxury blog.

Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel
4130 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Phone: (877)497-8483

Scenic Lake Tahoe is a majestic alpine lake that is surrounded by the towering peaks of both the Sierra Nevada to the west, and Carson Ranges to the east. Lake Tahoe shares the common border of California and Nevada and is known for its incredibly, clear water.

The lake is one of the largest and deepest lakes in the world. It ranks as the second deepest in the U.S., behind only Crater Lake in Oregon.  One of the best ways to enjoy Lake Tahoe is by boat. Departing from Zephyr Cove on the southeastern corner of the lake, the M.S. Dixie II is a 520 passenger, award-winning boat and has been voted “Best Cruise in Nevada” by Nevada Magazine.

The M.S. Dixie II is a paddle wheeeler boat and the largest cruising vessel in South Lake Tahoe. The boat has three passenger decks. The top deck is called the Hurricane deck, where you can enjoy incredible lake views and clean, alpine air. There’s also a snack bar to purchase food and drinks during your tour. The second deck includes an entertainment area and gift shop to buy souvenirs. The bottom or main deck has a large dining room for a sit down meal or a refreshing cocktail. On several wall mounted TV’s, watch a biography about the history of Lake Tahoe,  learn how the lake was created and its numerous changes over the years.

The sightseeing cruise lasts between 2 and 2.5 hours. Passengers will be treated to stunning views of Mother nature at her very best. From the towering Sierra Nevada Mountains that surround Lake Tahoe, to entering beautiful Emerald Bay.

The M.S. Dixie II boat departs each day from Zephyr Cove Resort. You can chose from a Breakfast or Champagne Brunch cruise, a midday Emerald Bay sightseeing cruise with lunch or try the popular Sunset Dinner Dance cruise for a truly, romantic experience.

During your boat cruise, there will be nonstop photo opportunities. The lake is a beautiful blue color and complimented by the contrast from the surrounding Sierra Mountains. Depending on the time of year, the mountains are often covered in snow.

After traveling west across the lake, we slow down upon nearing scenic Emerald Bay, which in 1969 became a National Natural Landmark. The bay located in the southwest corner of Lake Tahoe. The boat then enters via a narrow opening and everyone is in awe of the natural beauty that engulfs us. A narration over the ship’s speakers explain how the granite surfaces were carved and formed by glaciers.

Soon, Fannette Island comes into view, literally rising right out of lake’s waters. It’s the only island on Lake Tahoe but has a famous past. Mrs. Lora J. Knight of Santa Barbara purchased the land near the island in 1928 and named it Fannette Island. You can see on the summit the remains of a small, stone building – named The Tea House.

On the shore, we get an up close view of magical Vikingsholm mansion. This 38 room castle was built by Knight and finished in 1929. The stone mansion has a Scandinavian look as it sits just beyond a sandy beach with waves lapping up on the shore. She lived in the home until her death in 1945. Vikingsholm can also be reached by hiking or walking along the scenic trail, down to Emerald Bay.

As we circle around the back side of Fannette Island, one can simply admire and appreciate the area’s natural beauty. We slowly exit Emerald Bay and return to the open waters of Lake Tahoe. As you gaze to the south, you’ll notice the ski runs of Heavenly Mountain Resort and the towering, hotel casinos of world famous South Lake Tahoe.

The original M.S. Dixie boat began service on Lake Tahoe back in 1949. Operating first as a pleasure boat, it was expanded and became the inaugural paddle wheeler, serving the public in 1972. Then in 1994, the current M.S. Dixie II went into service bring modern technology that has served many thousands of passengers ever since.

The price for the Emerald Bay Sightseeing Cruise is $55 per person ($20 for a child 3-11) and Dinner Dance Cruise is $85 ($35 for a child 3-11). Get more pricing at: http://www.zephyrcove.com/msdixie.aspx

Taking a boat cruise on the M.S. Dixie II is one of the most affordable and rewarding water activities to do while visiting Lake Tahoe. It’s an incredible VIP experience that should not be missed.

If you are interested in traveling to Lake Tahoe and enjoying this wonder of nature high in the Sierra Mountains, contact The Life of Luxury. When visiting, be sure to plan a boat cruise on the M.S. Dixie II. Return soon to follow our luxury blog and read about other luxury travel destinations.

New Orleans, Louisiana is known for fantastic food and has over 1,400 restaurants to choose from. It doesn’t matter whether its seafood, sausage, chicken or even okra going into your gumbo, it’s going to make your taste buds come to life.

Be sure to enjoy a steamy bowl of gumbo when visiting New Orleans. A typical gumbo recipe includes okra that’s simmered for several hours in roux. It consists of both flour and either oil or butter.

There are several New Orleans restaurants that have been serving great meals to patrons for a very long time. For example Antoine’s is celebrating its 175 year anniversary. Amazing! Other incredible New Orleans restaurants include Commander’s Palace, Arnaud’s, plus Brennan’s, which recently finished a restaurant renovation.

With great restaurants, comes great chefs. Chef Alon Shaya is a James Beard Award-winning chef at Shaya. Or stroll down to St. Roch Market, where you can try various food vendors led by promising new chefs. For foodies that like to enjoy a supper club, which has been a popular fine dining experience, stop in to dine at Dinner Lab.

The “Big Easy” also offers numerous food festivals all during the year, where you sample and try out delicious foods.

Once you get your fill of great food, be sure to explore the city and discover the rich culture and arts that New Orleans offers. Joie de vivre is French for “joy of life” and that motto is deeply rooted in this city. It’s a cultural hotbed and resonates everywhere you look.

The city has long appreciated the arts and you can wander among its many museums and galleries. For example, the The National WWII Museum has now become the top visitor attraction.

The New Orleans Museum of Art is found in City Park, which is one of the oldest and largest urban parks found anywhere in the U.S. Newly reopened, check out the Southern Food and Beverage Museum, celebrating the culture of the America’s historic South.

Two other obvious choices to visit are the Contemporary Arts Center and Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Regardless of your choice, the vibrant arts scene in the Crescent City will definitely not disappoint.

New Orleans is such a unique city with Southern charm. It’s a perfect city to explore its culture and love of food by dining in one of many New Orleans restaurants.

The Life of Luxury can assist planning and booking your luxury travel reservations to Louisiana. Enjoy the magnificent food choices and a VIP experience at the numerous New Orleans restaurants. Be sure to return again to read our luxury blog for more travel tips.

Last week Carbone restaurant, the hot New York City establishment in Greenwich Village, opened in Las Vegas at the ARIA Resort & Casino. Mario Carbone, Rich Torrisi and Jeff Zalaznick are the top brass at Marking Major Food Group, and this is their first venture outside of the Big Apple.

The new Carbone restaurant strives to bring that classic Italian-American cuisine and merge it with top notch, Captain tableside service. The restaurant will use only world-class-sourced ingredients plus award-winning, culinary craftsmanship.

ARIA Resort & Casino is a luxury AAA Five Diamond resort, located on the world famous Strip in Las Vegas, widely known as the entertainment capital of the world. The luxury resort in Sin City offers its guests only the best in concierge services and endless luxury amenities. Enjoy your stay in VIP style!

When asked about the opportunity to open Carbone restaurant in Las Vegas, Chef-partner Mario Carbone was quoted, “It is very exciting to be a part of the booming food scene happening on the Las Vegas Strip. We are committed to bringing Las Vegas a truly memorable dining experience that is unlike anything this city has seen.”

Adding to the excitement of the restaurant’s grand opening, managing partner Jeff Zalaznick stated, “The glamour, history and attitude of Las Vegas make it a perfect fit for Carbone. We are not just replicating the New York City restaurant; our guests will experience a Carbone specifically for Las Vegas.”

The space within Carbone restaurant is carved into various rooms. Ken Fulk is a San Francisco-based star designer and created the unique atmosphere that combines theatrical edge along with Italian culture.

One of the new rooms is named The Blue Room. It’s available for private dining and is reached via a series of elliptical arches. Once inside, you are mesmerized by the stunning blue decor. The Blue Room features high, vaulted ceilings that are accented with golden-tipped lighting. A unique New York City touch is utilizing NYC subway station tiles on the room’s walls. Enjoy your favorite cocktail at the mahogany bar with an antique mirror.

The goal of Carbone restaurant is to deliver the best Italian-American cuisine in a fine dining atmosphere. The restaurant’s dishes only use the finest products sourced from around the world. Restaurant guests will enjoy their choice of indulgent dishes that has made Carbone the popular choice in New York City for the ultimate fine dining experience..

Several of the Carbone dishes that are expected to be the most popular are the famous Spicy Rigatoni Vodka, Veal Parmesan, Lobster Fra Diavola and Meatballs. The menu will offer seasonal specialties, and look forward to being treated to new additions that will be unique to the Las Vegas location at the n the menu along with seasonally changing specialties. The menu will continue to evolve and introduce dishes entirely exclusive to the Las Vegas location at the ARIA Resort & Casino.

Wine connoisseurs will enjoy Carbone’s vast wine selection to pair with their favorite dish. The wine collection consists of 550 labels, including top wines form Italy, France and the U.S.explores the best-of-the-best from Italy, America and France.

You can find Carbone in the luxury ARIA Resort & Casino, on the promenade level next to Jean Georges Steakhouse and BARDOT Brasserie. The new restaurant will be open between 5:00pm and 10:30pm Monday through Saturday.

If you are visiting Las Vegas, be sure to dine at the new Carbone restaurant for a terrific, Italian-American cuisine meal. The Life of Luxury can help book your luxury travel reservations and deliver a VIP experience during your Las Vegas stay. Come back again to read our luxury blog for new travel industry announcements.

Photo: Carbone