Picasso Exhibit at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art

Bellagio Resort & Casino in Las Vegas is pleased to present their new exhibit, Picasso: Creatures and Creativity. The display will be show cased in the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, and will allow guests to venture into the creative mind of Picasso.

The exhibit at the incredible Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art will feature over 45 of Picasso’s paintings produced from the 1930-1970s. Guests will journey through Picasso’s peculiar ability to capture human form with his use of line, movement, and color. Guest will not only appreciate the exhibition of fine art, but also understand the artistic vision. The exhibit will run July 3, 2015 through January 10, 2016.

Pablo Picasso drew inspiration from real life experiences. Most of his adulthood was spent in France. Picasso has been extraordinarily prolific throughout the course of his life. He has achieved widespread fortune for his innovative artistic accomplishments. He has become one the best-known figures in 20th-century art. Several paintings rank among the most expensive paintings in the world.

Picasso is known for his paintings, drawing, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, stage design, and writing. Some of his notable work are: Les Demoiselles d’ Avignon (1907), Guernica (1937), and The Weeping Woman (1937).

Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art is located in the heart of the luxurious Bellagio Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Since opening in 1998, Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art has presented objects and artwork drawn from worldwide acclaimed museums and private collections. The gallery has presented such showcases as: American Modernism, Classic Contemporary: Lichtenstein, Warhol & Friends, Ansel Adams: America, The Impressionist Landscape: From Corot to Van Gogh, Impressionism: Art in Bloom.

The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art has been known as “Where great art goes on vacation.” Bellagio Resort & Casino was inspired by the lake Como town in Bellagio, Italy. Bellagio known for elegance, beauty, and luxury has provided guest with additional attractions.

Resort guests are able to experience these attractions while visiting or lodging such as: The Fountains of Bellagio, Fiori di Como, The bank Night Club, Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Garden, and the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art.

Although, many travel to Las Vegas for leisure, many are unaware of the hidden riches that Bellagio Resort & Casino holds. Any art enthusiast, or person who appreciates talent, history, color, and expression, would enjoy the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art.

If you want to visit Las Vegas and stay at the luxury Bellagio Resort & Casino, contact The Life of Luxury today. Be sure to see the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art. Return here to follow this luxury blog and read up on all the latest luxury travel news.

Photo Credit: Pablo Picasso, Woman Wearing Yellow Hat (Jacqueline), 1962, Oil on canvas, 36 x 28 ¾”, © 2015 Estate of Pablo Picasso/Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York




Luxury Market Demand Continues to Drive Ivory Poaching

China’s most highly regarded and well known in-depth talk show, Yang Lan One-on-One interviewed Derek and Beverly Joubert, while they were in China. A follow-up from her interview with the Joubert’s on her Village Forum, which was viewed on social media by 195 million people. Recently the Chinese government announced they would start the process of banning all ivory importation.

Derek and Beverly have lived and worked in Botswana, Africa for over 30 years. They are award winning filmmakers and have produced numerous articles for National Geographic Magazine. The Joubert’s have spoken about the rapid rate at which we are losing rhino, elephant, leopard and lion due to a limitless in-demand market in China and South East Asia.

Ivory poaching is a highly prized material in China. It has many usages, one being the material used to make chop-sticks. Amongst the necessities ivory is used for, the Asian hunger for wild animal parts claim to work miracles ranging from increasing virility, to curing cancer.

During the interview with Yang Lan, Dereck Joubert was quoted, “If we can draw on the ancient wisdom of care, compassion, respect, trust and empathy that is so prevalent over 2,000 years of Chinese culture from dynasty to dynasty, we will find a common language. And if China can shutdown the demand, we can handle closing off the supply with anti–poaching and crime fighting.”

The demand has driven ivory poaching and profits from illegal trafficking to record-shattering levels. Africa is losing 5 lions per day, 5 elephants per hour, and a rhino every 7 hours. The decline of these key species could threaten both the environment and the economy of Africa.

Even though this may be an African problem, controlling the demand and trafficking from China and the Far East could shorten poaching along with not ignoring the problem alone. Derek and Beverly have launched a new initiative to help save Africa’s rhinos. A huge part has to be creating awareness. Starting with Africa, and Asia.

If stories like ivory poaching and travel to exotic destinations around the world are appealing to you, be sure to return and read our luxury blog. The Life of Luxury is proud to present the latest news in the luxury industry.

Picture: Lufei Photo




See El Galeón – A 16th Century Replica Ship in New York City

If you are in New York City the week of July 4, then be sure to check out the “The Festival of Tall Ships.” Get the opportunity to step onboard El Galeón, which is a replica of 16th century ship that was part of Spain’s West Indies fleet.

It’s a great way to see an authentic wooden replica up close and personal. The impressive El Galeón ship will sail into New York Harbor and the South Street Seaport and can be seen between July 4 – 12, 2015.

Sponsored by Hornblower Cruises & Events, Cameron Clark, who’s the Vice President and General Manager of Hornblower New York was quoted, “For one week only, El Galeón is commandeering South Street Seaport which will be a boom to the lower Manhattan community during the busy July 4th period. We are also donating a portion of ticket sales from El Galeón to the South Street Seaport Museum and the New York Harbor School, both staple institutions that represent the best of the maritime industry and its links to New York Harbor and also provide an important piece of history for visitors and its neighbors, including the Museum’s sail training and sea education programs on the Lettie G. Howard.”

El Galeón will be docked at Pier 15 at the South Street Seaport’s Waterfront Esplanade. Visitors can relive the route of famous explorer Ponce de Leon aboard the amazing, 170-foot wooden ship. Juan Ponce de León was a Spanish explorer lived between 1460 and 1521. He explored a nearby, San Juan Bautista island, which later was named Puerto Rico. He actually as the island’s governor.

There will an available exhibition tilted, “San Pelayo” where you can learn about 16th century European sailing techniques and navigational technology during that era.

El Galeón is an impressive Spanish ship. It features three large masts, seven sails, six decks and even crew quarters. As you step onboard and tour the ship, explore the expansive main and upper decks, plus the quarter and gun decks and Admiral’s room.

El Galeón tours are available 9am – 5pm each day. If you would like to host a special event one evening, the ship can hold up to 225 people – making it ideal for business conferences, VIP events and other special occasions.

To learn more, please visit www.hornblowernewyork.com

Has visiting New York City always been a dream of yours? Contact The Life of Luxury and have us plan and book your luxury travel itinerary. Come back to read other stories like the El Galeón Spanish ship and follow this luxury blog.




Celebrate “Red, White, Bourbon, and BBQ” at The Meritage Resort and Spa

With July 4th only a few days away, spend time in the gorgeous Napa Valley of California and celebrate the “Red, White, Bourbon, and BBQ” at The Meritage Resort and Spa.

This event is a wonderful way to support our veterans on Independence Day. The party will be held at the resort’s pool that provides beautiful vineyard views. Live music will be provided by Full Chizel. Enjoy a delicious BBQ, Bourbon, numerous Napa Valley wines, locally provided crafted beers, great tasting American Revolution Vodka and fun, festival games.

The Meritage Resort and Spa is a spectacular, four-diamond Napa Valley luxury resort ideally situated along a scenic, hillside vineyard. The luxury property offers guests 322 Tuscan-inspired guestrooms and luxury suites. The The Meritage Resort and Spa is part of the Meritage Collection, which includes four, amazing California locations – Bacara Resort & Spa, Balboa Bay Resort, Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa and The Meritage Resort and Spa.

The “Red, White, Bourbon, and BBQ” is available to both guests of The Meritage Resort, as well as the public. Ticket prices are $49 per adult and include 2 adult beverages, food, and other festivities. The price for people under 21 years pay just $25 and are offered non-alcoholic beverages plus food and on-site festivities. The Napa event will be held from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

In honor of past and present members of our armed forces, veterans can receive a 15% discount by using promotional code “HERO.” A portion of the event’s proceeds will be donated to help the nation’s military heroes.

A mixologist will be crafting various bourbon and vodka infused cocktails that will feature both Jim Beam bourbon and American Revolution Vodka. There will be delicious food pairings prepared by The Meritage Resort chefs. One offering will be a whole pig roast and Jim Beam’s BBQ sauce.

Prior to the “Red, White, Bourbon, and BBQ”, take part in other July 4th activities in Napa. The Meritage Resort and Spa is proud to be a sponsor of Napa’s Fourth of July celebrations. The parade begins at 10 a.m. There will be an evening fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. Don’t worry about driving, guests can take the luxury resort’s shuttle to and from the downtown Napa’s festivities.

Napa is top destination for travelers all over the world. If you want to book a reservation and stay at The Meritage Resort and Spa, please contact The Life of Luxury. We can make your trip a VIP experience. Come back often to follow our luxury blog and read about other luxury travel events from around the world.

Photo: The Meritage Resort and Spa




Tropical Luxury at The St. Regis Vommuli Resort, Maldives

In 2016, Starwood Hotels & Resorts is planning to open its first luxury resort under the St. Regis luxury brand in Maldives – The St. Regis Vommuli Resort, Maldives. Starwood currently offers Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa and W Retreat & Spa – Maldives.

The St. Regis Vommuli Resort, Maldives is being built on the private island of Vommuli in the Dhaalu Atoll. You can reach the island by taking a 40-minute seaplane ride from Male, which is the capital of Maldives. This new luxury resort will surely become a spectacular travel destination when completed.

The new Maldives resort will be situated on more than 20 acres of lush, tropical paradise. The area will be surrounded by pristine beaches, as well as a secluded lagoon with beautiful turquoise water.

The St. Regis Vommuli Resort, Maldives will offer guests 77 luxurious villas, each with a unique, contemporary design. The resort will include a luxury spa to relax and unwind. There will be a half-dozen private treatment rooms to get pampered and enjoy a VIP experience.

The St. Regis Vommuli Resort, Maldives

In total, there will be five restaurants and bars including – an all-day dining restaurant, plus three specialty restaurants and a signature bar. Be sure to try the iconic Bloody Mary cocktail, which is served at each of Starwood’s 34 resorts and hotels found all around the world.

The resort will offers its guests endless luxury amenities such as a first-class fitness center and yoga space, infinity swimming pool, in addition to a dive and activity center. The luxury services by all St. Regis properties are amazing.

Visiting the Maldives is an incredible experience. Contact The Life of Luxury and we can help book your entire travel itinerary, including a stay at The St. Regis Vommuli Resort, Maldives when it opens next year. Return often to follow this luxury blog for the latest news in the luxury travel industry.

Photo: Starwood Hotels & Resorts / The St. Regis Vommuli Resort, Maldives




GRAVITATION Art Display at Delano Las Vegas Hotel

The Delano Las Vegas is an incredible, all-suite property. Located in a 43-story tower on the Mandalay Bay Resort property, the luxury Las Vegas hotel’s lobby directly connects to the popular Mandalay Bay. The Delano Las Vegas offers guests large rooms, as well a excellent service and food.

From now until July 6, the Delano Las Vegas hotel is presenting “GRAVITATION.” It’s a new art exhibit from Zak Ostrowski. As an artist, designer and builder – Zak Ostrowski creates impressive art pieces of all forms and sizes by utilizing diverse materials. Zak has created numerous fine art pieces such as sculpture and paintings to large scale, public art installations.

Zak Ostrowski stated, “Delano Las Vegas is a very unique Strip hotel as it is so mindful of its environment. The design of Delano is representative of the natural beauty found throughout Las Vegas and beyond – like the red rocks and colors of the sunsets – and my art is meant to be a reflection of the same elements.”

GRAVITATION was developed with the Delano Las Vegas hotel’s Mojave-inspired design in mind. For example, the sleek sculptural bench is made from concrete and is a combination of nature, art and design. The piece also incorporates representations of desert sandstone, depicting the surrounding Las Vegas desert.

Matthew Chilton is General Manager of Delano Las Vegas luxury hotel and was quoted, “Immersing our guests in art and culture is an important component of the Delano experience. We are excited to showcase the work of such a talented local artist to our guests from around the world, especially since the inspiration for GRAVITATION is rooted in Las Vegas’ natural surroundings.”

After viewing the GRAVITATION art display by Zak Ostrowski, be sure to check out one of the unique social spaces at the Delano Las Vegas – the Franklin is an eclectic lounge, Della’s Kitchen is where “historic farmhouse meets urban kitchen” or enjoy a warm drink at 3940 Coffee + Tea.

If you are planning a trip to Las Vegas, let us help book your entire itinerary, including a stay at the smoke-free, Delano Las Vegas luxury hotel. If you enjoy reading about great luxury travel destinations like Las Vegas, follow our luxury blog for the latest travel industry news.

Photo: Delano Las Vegas




Luxury Hotels Offer In-Room Shopping Experiences

As luxury hotels try to one up each other to attract guests, some of the top hotel brands in the U.S. are adding a new luxury amenity to their offering – In-room shopping experiences.

Published in the New York Times, the story explains that many luxury hotels are teaming up with luxury retail stores to offer their guest unique shopping experiences.

For shopaholics, it’s the ideal way to shop for stylish clothes and fashion accessories, plus other luxury items. As a world renowned fashion hub, New York City features many luxury hotels that have partnered up with high-end retailers.

The Quin in Midtown hotel is partnering with Bergdorf Goodman and offering a direct-dial button in all the hotel’s 208 rooms. Try in-room shopping and order direct to your room or make an appointment at the store. It’s shopping VIP style!

The WestHouse in Midtown in New York City is offering a $500 gift card for stays of three nights or longer. This in-room shopping experience allows you to shop at Net-a-Porter – an online, fashion retailer.

Also in New York City, The Mark Hotel located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan has also partnered with Bergdorf Goodman. Rise in style in a pedicab and taken from the luxury hotel directly to the Fifth Avenue store. If you stay in a suite at The Mark Hotel, guests will receive a both a $500 gift card plus facial in the beauty department of Bergdorf Goodman.

South of New York City, guests at the The St. Regis Washington, D.C. hotel offers guests to pre-order clothing and accessories from Neiman Marcus and available in your hotel room upon your arrival. Now that’s VIP service! There is no cost for the service and guests only pay if the clothes are tried on. .

As both luxury hotels and retail shops continue to try and attract customers, the luxury amenities and perks offered will continue to rise. It’s a win-win for consumers and a way to try a new VIP experience – In-room shopping.

Ready for a luxury travel experience to New York City? Let The Life of Luxury plan and book your Big Apple trip. Stay at one of the luxury hotels and try the trendy new, in-room shopping experience. Follow this luxury blog to read about the latest luxury travel news and hotel packages.

Photo: WestHouse in Midtown




International Sushi Day at Katsuya by Starck

There are a lot of sushi lovers around the world. On June 18, is International Sushi Day. The day became popular via Facebook back in 2009, International Sushi Day is a time to enjoy their favorite sushi dish.

Sushi is a traditional, Japanese food that’s made from rice, salt, sugar, vinegar various types of raw fish. On International Sushi Day, there will be restaurants all over the world serving up the best tasting sushi dishes, some even for free on June 18.

Sushi started in Japan dating back to 8th century, but didn’t really get introduced in the U.S. until the 1950’s and 60’s. Now you can find terrific sushi restaurants all around the world.

Katsuya by Starck is run by master sushi Chef Katsuya Uechi. This upscale restaurant is located in the SLS Las Vegas Hotel & Casino. Now you can dine in luxury style and enjoy a one-of-a-kind sushi experience in Las Vegas. Katsuya by Starck features a wide selection of unique Japanese flavors, including unique rolls and incredible sushi and sashimi platters.

On International Sushi Day, Katsuya by Starck in Las Vegas is the place to be for shushi lovers. Enjoy master chef Katsuya’s signature Omakase Geta. This dish is a wonderful sushi display that features the finest cuts of sushi and sashimi, along with premier selections of the day. The price is $175 per person.

Enjoy International Sushi Day at your favorite sushi restaurant. If you happen to be in Las Vegas, be sure to dine at Katsuya by Starck at the SLS Las Vegas Hotel & Casino. Return often to follow our luxury blog for food and luxury travel tips and industry news.

Photo: Katsuya at SLS Las Vegas




The Jefferson Hotel – Summer Fun in Washington D.C.

As another, busy summer travel season approaches, Washington, D.C. continues to be a top destination in the U.S. But Washington, D.C. is not just the home of incredible museums and historical monuments.

The Jefferson DC hotel is offering a new travel package that includes enjoying a Wineventure and sampling some of the best wines in the region, plus take part if the Where’s Tommy (Jefferson) Instagram adventure.

The Jefferson is a 95-room luxury hotel conveniently located in downtown Washington, D.C., near the iconic White House. First built in 1923, The Jefferson Apartment became the historic Washington, D.C. hotel – The Jefferson in 1955.

The Jefferson hotel went through a comprehensive renovation 2009 that included adding two specialty suites, upgrading of all 95 guestrooms plus restaurants and common areas, and the return of the gorgeous 1923 skylight in the lobby.

This summer, stay at The Jefferson hotel and book the Summer of Adventure package:

By teaming up with the National Geographic Museum across the street, Indiana Jones aficionados can get their thrills with this new travel package in Washington, D.C.!

Package prices begin at $365, the Summer of Adventure package includes:
– Overnight accommodations at the The Jefferson
– Two tickets to the Indiana Jones and the Adventure of Archeology exhibit at The National Geographic Museum
– Two of our signature Indiana Jones cocktails in Quill
– Indiana Jones-themed welcome amenity

Try the luxury hotel’s exclusive, self-guided WHERE’S TOMMY? tour. You will visit eight locations in and around Washington, D.C. Make it an interactive experience by taking a picture of character Tommy with your smart phone or tablet, then upload it to Instagram – use the handle @TheJeffersonDC and #WheresTommyDC The WHERE’S TOMMY Experience is complimentary to all guests staying at The Jefferson hotel.

Be sure to try the Wineventure. It highlights The Jefferson, D.C’s very own wine collection that consist of 1,300 in-house labels. Get out and visit DC’s local wine country.

Planning a trip to Washington, D.C.? Let The Life of Luxury help book your entire luxury travel itinerary, including a stay at the historic The Jefferson hotel. Return often and read our luxury blog for more great summer travel ideas.

Photo: The Jefferson Hotel




Luxury Spa Packages at Sea Crest Beach Hotel

As the Cape Cod area nears peak summer season, it’s time to indulge oneself and enjoy a luxury spa package at the Sea Crest Beach Hotel.

Located in the historic North Falmouth area of Cape Cod, Sea Crest Beach Hotel is nestled among quaint New England cottages, surrounding Buzzards Bay. The hotel is one of the few in the area actually located on the ocean.

The Sea Crest Beach Hotel has a long history. In 1929, the property included a summer theater but was burned down during a fire in 1936. The hotel was built soon after and during World War II, it was converted into housing for the nearby military base – Camp Edwards. After the war ended, it once again turned into a summer hotel. In 1962, it became the Sea Crest Beach Hotel and began its run as a popular family vacation destination.

Sea Crest Beach Hotel features 264 guest rooms and suites. Many include private water-view balconies as well as fireplaces. There’s a three-bedroom cottage that can sleep up to eight people. It’s an ideal place to relax and enjoy the refreshing sea breezes off the Atlantic Ocean.

The Sea Crest Beach Hotel partnered with Bellezza Salon Medspa and introduced two new luxury spa packages to pamper yourself. With rates starting at just $398 (includes gratuity), the Bellezza & the Beach package includes overnight, hotel accommodations, in addition to a Personal Customized Facial, Classic Pedicure, Hot Stone Massage plus a welcome bag. A less expensive option is the Beach Stone package, Priced starting at $230 (includes gratuity), you get an overnight stay plus Hot Stone Massage and a spa-themed welcome bag.

For a wondefule fine dining experience, enjoy an meal a Red’s. Owned by Red Auerbach, the popular Boston Celtics coach and president, offers a splendid menu. The restaurant’s decor includes numerous pieces of Boston Celtic memorabilia.

Sea Crest Beach Hotel has won numerous awards and accolades over the years, including – “Best Hotel” by Cape Cod Magazine’s “Best of the Cape & Islands Reader’s Choice Awards” every year since 2011. In 2012, the luxury Cape Cod hotel was awarded the “Best Sunset Wedding” as part of its “Best of Cape Cod Awards.”

Looking for a perfect beach getaway on Cape Cod? Stay at the luxury Sea Crest Beach Hotel and try one of their spa packages. Do you enjoy reading about luxury travel destination and weekend getaways, then follow our luxury blog for the latest news.

Photo: Sea Crest Beach Hotel




10 Fun Facts About Monaco

The moment you arrive in Monaco, a small principality located on the French Riviera, you’ll admire its majesty. Where Grace Kelly became Princess Consort, where famous stars of the silver screen, famous athletes, and the world’s Royalty congregate.

Monaco will have you feeling most glamorous. Whether you choose to destress by enjoying a cold French beer while dinning at one of the 5-star cuisines, staying at a 5-star Hotel & Spa, to venturing through the many Cinderella-esk neighborhoods, Monaco has glitz, sublime natural beauty, and enchantment that would fulfill and captivate any excursionist.

A few facts about Monaco would have any globetrotter wanting to visit, and homeowner interested in the sought after luxury real estate, choose Monaco above any other destination.

1. Monaco currently has about 36,000 residents and is primarily occupied by French and Italian citizens, among 125 other nationalities. It is also one of the safest countries to travel to or reside in, with more law enforcement per person than any other country in the world.
2. Monaco is one of the top richest Nations in the world, which boosts the Real Estate market and making it the third most expensive in the world.
3. Monaco has many options for leisure from its chic shops, to 5-star Hotels & Spa, to many French and Italian restaurants, its panoramic picturesque seascape, or its many architecture antiquities.
4. The famous Monaco Grand Prix is held annually on the streets which gives travelers, residents, and automobile enthusiast a front row seat to one of the world’s most prestigious automobile races since 1929.
5. There are numerous casinos in Monaco. The rather famous Monte Carlo Casino (officially the Casino de Monte-Carlo) which was designed by the same architect whom produced the Paris Opera, and has been the famous backdrop in the James Bond franchise makes it a sought out haven.
6. There are not many beaches, but the few Monaco possess have majestic crystal clear waters and golden sand. You will also get to enjoy the many luxury yacht-lined harbors.
7. There is no tax in Monaco. Shopping anyone? At the famous 5 Pavilions, you’ll find many prestigious fashion brands including – Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Dior, Céline, Bulgari, Akris, Lanvin and Yves Saint Laurent.
8. The summers are long in Monaco, and the winters are mild making it an ideal place throughout the year. It’s another way to avoid the heavy jacket wear in Northern Europe during the winter season.
9. The classic beauty of cinema herself Grace Kelly became princess of Monaco when she married Prince Reiner III, that was televised and considered “the first modern event to generate media overkill.” Amongst the royalty whom reside in Monaco till this day, many other accomplished musicians, athletes, Formula One Drivers, and Ambassadors have all occupied the luxurious Monaco.
10. Monaco is the second smallest country in the world, and just about the size of New York’s Central Park. Monaco can be explored in one day and you still would be able to include a nice lunch, and shopping.

If you do travel to Monaco, you’ll discover the country has more than enough to offer while also making you feel like you are luxurious. Contact The Life of Luxury for help planning and booking your next vacation in VIP style. Come back soon and follow this luxury blog and read about other wonderful travel destinations.

Photo: Martinp1