Courtesy of: Rebekah Lea ­

Valentine’s Day is almost upon us. How about some wonderful gift ideas for that special person in your life?

If you are trying to sweep the love of your life off their feet and go far beyond just the traditional flowers and candy, here are some terrific escapes that everyone can enjoy.

It’s time to step away from cliché and pick something a bit more fun such as an “over the top” gift’ for your sweet Valentine this year.

Our list of sexy, Valentine’s Day gift ideas for both him & her include a variety of suggestions including luxurious vacation experiences, the perfect V-Day outfit, and the perfect diamond keepsakes.

It’s the ultimate 2013 V-Day Gift Guide: These “over the top” gifts offer a personalized statement of your love this Valentine’s Day:

For Her:
Give Her the Gift of Style with a Romantic Date Night Outfit
Make your woman fall in love with both you and the fun, contemporary womenswear line, Rae Francis, as you spoil her with their luxurious clothing this Valentine’s Day. The romantic, flowing fabrics will keep her feeling sexy and flirty on February 14th. Pull a Richard Gere and surprise her with one of these items as a gift before your date, making her feel like the “Pretty Woman” in your life as she wears it for your romantic Valentine’s venture.
Pictured left, Rae Francis Timothy Blouse
$255.00 and Rae
Francis Dexter Dress
$260.00 available
from www.raefrancis.com .

Show Her You Really Know Your Sweetie with a Handbag from Oscar and Anna ­
From $468
If you want to give your lady a gift that will REALLY keep on giving, why not give her something she can wear each day and think of you? A beautiful leather purse, such as the ones by New York-based handbag line, Oscar and Anna, can be the gift that shows your honey you know her needs; isn’t a woman¹s bag usually her best friend, after all? The sleek and light-weight Italian leather bags are designed to be as practical as they are functional, featuring dual entry side pockets into a bottom compartment that separates the big things she totes around daily (i.e. gym clothes, umbrella, iPad, etc.) from the things she needs easy access to (i.e. keys, wallet, phone). This way, when your lady stays over your place next time, she won’t have to worry about toting around extra clothes like a bag lady, eliminating the “walk of shame” altogether! Opt for a nice bordeaux or hot pink, the colors of love, in the Cleo “Shoe-In” style and you¹ve got yourself a guaranteed win this Valentine’s Day!
Available from www.OscarandAnna.com

Spoil Her With Diamonds From Rebekah Lea ­
From $480
Everyone knows that diamonds are a girl’s best friend! That¹s why jewelry designer Rebekah Lea’s stunning collection is the perfect way to immortalize your love with a memoir she will be able to hold on to forever. Whether it¹s an understated stackable ring, the bold Die Hard Earrings with diamonds and rubies, or an engagement ring for those ready to REALLY commit, the collection offers a perfect gift for any girl. Whether you want to offer a small token of love to be treasured forever, or are ready to pop the big question, the below suggestions are a surefire way to make your sweetie feel like a modern-day princess.
To browse all of Rebekah Lea¹s collections, please visit: www.RebekahLea.com

For Him:
Bring Out His Dark Side with Rebekah Lea ­
From $480
Finding the right gift for your man is important, especially on Valentine’s Day. Unique yet stylish, Rebekah Lea’s designs aren’t just for the ladies, just as jewelry on Valentine¹s Day isn¹t just for her. Surprise your husband or boyfriend with a powerful and intricate necklace from Rebekah Lea’s Forbidden Forest Collection. Casted from a real mouse skull, with black diamonds and garnets, this necklace is the perfect addition for any mysterious and fashion loving man in your life.
from www.rebekahlea.com

For Her OR Him:
Escape to the City of Love with Kensington Tours ­
From $820
The countdown to Valentine¹s Day is on, and Kensington Tours is here to help you with a collection of steamy destinations, perfect for old or new flames. Specializing in custom tours and cruises to the most extraordinary destinations, every tailor made journey is carefully crafted by the travel specialists to deliver a unique, personalized adventure. Why not take that special someone on an unforgettable getaway and discover the dazzle and charm of one of the most romantic places on earth ­ Paris! Stroll down the
banks of the Seine or enjoy the Palace of Versailles hand-in-hand with your sweetie.
available at www.KensingtonTours.com

The Perfect Colombian Getaway with Jacada Travel ­
From $4,090
Escape to some of the most enchanting, pristine and romantic corners of the always sexy Colombia with your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day with Jacada Travel, the go-to experts on bespoke luxury travel to Africa and Latin America. Whether you¹re looking for seductive seclusion or want to indulge in passionate city life of Cartagena, this country is the perfect romantic destination for every kind of couple. Start the trip off with serene seclusion with your honey in the protected paradise of Tayrona National Park where you’ll dive, snorkel, fish and surf. Once you¹ve had enough canoodling with your sweetheart, head to the romantic city of Cartagena, the “Florence of South America,” where you can stroll hand-in-hand down the time-worn colonial streets, sipping on champagne and relishing over fine gourmet dinners. This majestic and exciting getaway is the ideal vacation to sweep your sweetheart off his/her feet.
available at www.JacadaTravel.com

It’s time for you to say “I Heart You” list this Valentine’s Day. Please use the Contact Form below to submit your travel or other Valentine’s Day request. We will promptly get back to you.

Courtesy of: Sixthman

The country music and southern rock band Alabama has accomplished a lot over the years including over 73 million records sold, forty-three #1 singles, and more than 150 music industry awards. But there is one accomplishment the band has yet to make – a country music festival at sea.

Well get ready to celebrate the band’s 40th Anniversary and join Alabama on board Norwegian Pearl for a four-night cruise from Miami to Nassau & Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian’s own private island in the Bahamas.

Sixthman, known for being the leader in creating festivals at sea, and Alabama are partnering up and inviting some of their favorite bands and fans to a fun-filled four day cruise of outdoor concerts and activities.

You will set sail on October 24, 2013 and celebrate this great milestone with amazing performances including two outdoor concerts from the full band, performances from each of the individual Alabama band members and one autographed cruise poster per stateroom. Plus, guests in each stateroom will also get a once in a lifetime opportunity to take a photo with the band.

Courtesy of: Sixthman

While music fills your ears, you will also have access to Norwegian Pearl’s outstanding amenities some of which include bars and lounges, restaurants, two pools, a waterslide, four hot tubs, and a lavish spa. You will be treated to 24-hour room service and may even strike it rich at The Pearl Club Casino. Enjoy a private island get-away at Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas where you can participate in beachside activities and indulge in food and drink.

Teddy Gentry, founding member of Alabama states: “I’m looking forward to enjoying my very first cruise! We have some exciting things in-store for the fans and look forward to making this a lifetime memory for everyone onboard. This will be a one of a kind experience where we truly get to share time together with our biggest supporters over the years. We pride ourselves on creating unique experiences and are excited to embark on this new venture which will not disappoint. I’m bringing my extra-large belt because I hear the food is great. Hope you can join us!”

Cruise fares start at $750 per guest, plus taxes and fees. For full details of the Alabama & Friends Festival, and to sign up for the pre-sale, visit www.alabamafestivalatsea.com

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

The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin

The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin is set to open mid-2013. This will be the first Ritz-Carlton in the northeast China city of Tianjin, which is a 30-minute ride from Beijing via high-speed rail.

Located by the Haihe River, the Chinese city Tianjin is a key hub of the economy with a population of about 6 million, experiencing one of the fastest growth rates in all of China.

Located in the heart of the central business district, the 277-room luxury hotel will form an iconic landmark featuring 53 suites, four restaurants and bars, and an upscale Cantonese restaurant with 10 private dining rooms, each showcasing its own private wine cellar.

The luxury hotel’s property will include an indoor swimming pool, luxury fitness and spa facilities, public meeting space and one of the city’s largest ballrooms.

The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin Flair Bar and Lounge will offer Asian tapas, a dedicated whisky bar and a cigar cellar adjacent to the private room on the Mezzanine level along with nightly lounge music.

The Lobby Lounge will offer a classical English Afternoon Tea service and a gourmet selection of fine Chinese and British teas, and an all-day dining restaurant serving Japan, China and Italy cuisine.

The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, available for club and suite guests, will portray a designer urban apartment atmosphere with elements to include a grand fire place room, a library, separate game and entertainment areas as well as a boutique bar and residential kitchen styling.

Mr. Ma He Ting, Chairman of the Board of Tianjin Real Estate Development Management Group Co. Ltd states: “The city of Tianjin’s economic prestige and historical significance needs to build world-class facilities and services. We are delighted to have partnered with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company to bring part of that dream to life with an internationally-recognized luxury hospitality experience.”

Please use the Contact Form below to submit your travel request and book a reservation at The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin. We will promptly get back to you.

French Country Waterways offers luxury barge cruising aboard one of the company’s four luxury barges. This American-owned and operated premier provider offers upscale amenities on all their French cruises.

Your six-night sailing adventure, April through October, includes private tours and wine tastings, French cuisine dining featuring fine wines and French cheeses, private motor coaches and escorted transfers.

Put your feet up on the sundeck, walk or bicycle along canal towpaths, or just relax in your suite designed with private baths and king, queen or twin beds. Sure to make your cruise memorable is the stellar assistance of the crew …. fluent in both English and French, they will provide attentive and knowledgeable service all contributing to making this an unforgettable experience.

The eight-passenger Horizon II journeys through the Upper Loire Valley, known for its network of canals linking Paris to the château country, where many castles and stately manor houses fill the landscape.

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

The eight-passenger Princess, spends April through June in Champagne – where guests explore the Gothic Cathedral of Reims and the cellars Moët & Chandon.

The 12-passenger Adrienne, luxuriously outfitted with six king suites, serenely follows the narrow 18th-century Canal du Centre and tree-lined Canal de Bourgogne as it makes its way through the beauty of Burgundy’s scenic Côte d’Or wine-growing region.

The 12-passenger Nenuphar explores picturesque Central Burgundy on the Canal de Bourgogne route between Tanlay and Venarey-les-Laumes.

2013 barge cruise fares from French Country range from $5,095 to $6,695 per person, double occupancy.

For detailed cruise information or for information on individual bookings and for charter groups of up to 12 guests, please visit www.fcwl.com or call (800) 222-1236 in the U.S. and Canada and (781) 934-2454 in MA.

Photo by: National Park Service

Although it may be hard to reach, the Kalaupapa National Historical Park is another of Molokai’s more unusual tourist attractions worth considering, with guided tours explaining the world-famous and rather unexpected history of its past, isolated settlement.

The Kalaupapa National Historical Park enjoys a remote setting on the Kalaupapa Peninsula and because of this, can be hard to reach. Since it’s not connected by roads, and almost entirely surrounded by the ocean and steep cliffs, it means that visitors will need to either ride down the steep trail on mules, take a boat, or fly into Kalaupapa Airport.

The park was set up in 1980 and is dedicated to the lives and experiences of the former leper colony, which was known throughout the world and completely isolated here between 1866 and 1969. Literally thousands of Hawaiians infected with leprosy once lived here, being shipped in to the village of Kalawao from all over Hawaii.

Today, several local residents with leprosy (Hansen’s disease) still live here and have been treated with modern medicines.

Commercial tours of the main attractions and available and very interesting, although do bear in mind that you will require a permit from Hawaii’s State Department of Health, before you are actually able to enter the settlement.

This Molokai island on Hawaii tourist attraction is open daily and admission is free.

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

The Alpina, Gstaad

Gstaad in Switzerland has long been one of the most attractive Swiss holiday regions. This Swiss ski resort is popular destination with the rich-and-famous.

Now, there is a new luxury hotel that is creating a lot of buzz- The Alpina. It’s Gstaad’s first luxury hotel to open an a century.

The Alpina is located on five acres and built with local materials, including: stone from the Alps and repurposed wood from nearby centuries-old farmhouses.

It’s a magnificent $337 million-dollar property that includes the hotel, private apartments and three chalets.

The Alpina’s debut at the beginning of the Swiss ski season, allows guests at Gstaad’s newest luxury hotel to take advantage of exclusive Alpine views, privacy, and of course, all the luxurious amenities.

A few of these luxury amenities at the new Swiss hotel include: A private cinema, 21,500-square-foot Six Senses Spa, wine tasting room and a Havana-inspired cigar lounge compliments the hotel’s three fine dining restaurants.

Restaurant Sommet features award-winning chef Marcus Lindner who was recently at the two-star Michelin Masa in Zurich.

Please use the Contact Form below to submit your travel request to The Alpina hotel in Gstaad, Switzerland. We will promptly get back to you.

Most of us make a New Year’s resolution. Losing weight, getting in better share, improving our looks are always tops in the list.

So whether it’s trying new make-up or getting that trendy haircut you’ve dreamed of for months, make 2013 the year you make that change in your life for the better.

Marissa Machado is a popular, celebrity makeup and hair stylist for Celestine Agency in Santa Monica, Calif. Marissa has worked with some of Hollywood’s hottest stars including: Emma Stone, Lauren Conrad, and the Jonas Brothers.

Marissa Machado shares her expert insight with the following six, insider beauty tips to get the most bang for your buck!

1) When Getting Your Hair Colored
It’s best to have your hair brushed before arriving for your hair appointment. This saves your stylist from having to detangle your locks and allows him or her to get started on your color right away.
Additionally, there’s no need to wash or style your hair; it will be washed and styled after the color treatment. For more pre- and post-salon hair-coloring tips, read this article
(http://www.thehairstyler.com/features/articles/hair-color/hair-color-before-and-after-tips-for-your-best-color-ever)
from TheHairStyler.

2) When Going to a Makeup Appointment
Always show up makeup-free when heading to an appointment. I know it’s hard for some ladies to leave the house without makeup, but you will have a better application by showing up with a fresh face. When a makeup artist has to remove makeup, your face will become red and sensitive and may require heavier application. If absolutely necessary, apply a tinted moisturizer before leaving your house.

3) When Tipping at the Salon
Tipping is an important part of your payment and should never be skipped. Not all salons are created equal, but some stylists have to pay the salon a portion of their clients’ service plus rent for their
station. So your tip is the only money they can put in their pocket in its entirety. According to Emily Post, beauty salon tips should fall between 15 and 20 percent with a request to split the amount between everyone who served you during your appointment.

In addition, it’s equally important to spread the word if you have a great stylist; this will help his or her business and possibly yield a discount for you!

4) When You’re On a Budget
If you’re tight on cash but need to look fab for a special night out, try popping over to a makeup counter. The rule of thumb for makeup application is to purchase $60 worth of product. This is much more
affordable than hitting up the salon or having someone come to your house. Plus, the product you buy will serve as your touch-up kit throughout the evening.

5) When You’re a Smarty-Pants
The best client in a hair or makeup chair is the one who doesn’t purport to know it all! To ensure a good experience for both parties, you should answer the stylist questions and let them do their magic.
After all, they are the professionals and you’re seeking out their advice and experience! A bad client will try to instruct the stylist how to do their job; trust me, you’ll leave them wondering why you even bothered to make an appointment if you already know it all.

6) When You’re Running Behind
A good client is always on time! Stylists book their appointments according to process time and being late sets the rest of the day off causing everyone else to suffer. A bad client strolls in late on their cell phone with Starbucks in hand. Always remember the treatment you give your stylist will show on your face or hair!

Taylor Reeve

All women know that shoes make the outfit and what great outfit doesn’t deserve a great pair of shoes. These eye-catching designer pumps will definitely complete your look and get you noticed all at the same time.

Taylor Reeve, designer and artist from Southern California, is showcasing her new collection “taylorsays.”

Inspired by vibrant, colorful designs that feature unusual pictures, this sassy shoe line allows today’s woman to show off her originality.

Taylor Reeve

Taylor has developed a unique style of wearable art that lets women have fun while expressing their own individuality. This shoe line features one-of-a-kind designs inspired from a wide range of street and pop art to graffiti, tattoo and custom culture.

Clearly an artist, Taylor has been able to design and create one-of-a-kind artist series for companies such as Quicksilver, Dragon, Bell Helmets, Skullcandy, and worked with custom bike builder Jesse Rooke, adding her chic style to some of his off the wall bikes.

You will fall head over heels in love with this sole design available on TaylorSays.com and Heels.com.

Sweetheart Rock or Puu Pehe is a triangular-shaped rock located just offshore of Hulopoe Bay on Lanai.

The rock can be reached by following the shoreline from the left side of Hulopoe Beach. There you will find a large cove lined with a white sand beach.

Sweetheart Rock is about 80 feet high with a summit that measures approximately 70 feet in diameter. The “tomb” area at the top of the rock can be seen easily from an overlook on beach shore.

According to Hawaiian legend, Pu’u Pehe, who was a young girl, drowned in a sea cave. Her lover, with help from the Gods, carried her body to the summit and buried her beneath the ruins of what is believed to be an ancient bird shrine.

Archeologists who have studied the sea stack, report that there are no human remains in the “tomb” at the top of the rock. Many archeologists believe the “tomb” may really be a bird heiau built by ancient Hawaiians. Numerous bones from sea birds have been discovered near the heaiu.

The cove’s clear waters contain an abundance of marine life, offering visitors excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities.

A trail from Hulopue Beach leads to a wonderful overlook of Puu Pehe Rock.

Sandeman Porto

Sandeman, who is the world’s leading port and sherry company, asked master mixologist Jason Littrell to create a sexy signature cocktail that uses Sandeman Founders Reserve Porto.

The result was a Valentine’s Day cocktail that’s the ultimate port and chocolate pairing – the Sandeman Chocolate Passion.

Whether you are single or not this Valentine’s Day, anyone can fall head over heels for a new cocktail.

A truly mixable ingredient, Sandeman Founders Reserve Porto makes the perfect base for a Valentine’s Day cocktail and everyone loves a great tasting cocktail.

This delicious Valentine’s Day cocktail is made with Sandeman Porto. Sandeman Chocolate Passion is the ideal beginning to either a romantic dinner at home or as a nightcap after a night out with friends.

Sandeman Porto

The rich, fruity flavors of the port mate seamlessly with the crème de cacao to create a sensuous experience, while demerara syrup and a hint of bitters complement the whisky.

Ruby-red and garnished with an orange peel, this is truly an incredible libation to lust after.

Here is the recipe for the Sandeman Chocolate Passion.

Sandeman Chocolate Passion
3 parts Sandeman Founders Reserve
 Porto
3 parts Chivas Regal Scotch Whisky
1 part demerara syrup
1/2 part dry vermouth
1/2 part white crème de cacao
Dash of orange bitters
Dash of Angostura bitters

Mix ingredients. Pour over ice in an old-fashioned glass and stir.

Courtesy of: Rolls-Royce

It’s been touted as the long-awaited coupe version of the top-selling Rolls-Royce Ghost. Soon we will all be able to feel the Rolls-Royce Coupe Wraith.

Luxury car maker Rolls-Royce first began using the Wraith name back in 1938. For months, there have been reports of prototypes of a large coupe being test in Europe.

It’s expected that the new Rolls-Royce Wraith will feature the Rolls-Royce Ghost’s turbocharged 6.6-liter V-12. The Ghost is rated at 563 horsepower, but word is that the Wraith will be somewhere around 600 horsepower.

Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös was quoted, “Rolls-Royce Wraith will draw superlatives when it is unveiled in Geneva. Expect the boldest design, the most dramatic performance and the most powerful Rolls-Royce that has ever played host to the famous Spirit of Ecstasy figurine.”

We can expect to see the new Rolls-Royce Wraith available for sale sometime in the 4th quarter of 2013. Based in prior models, we can expect to see a convertible version soon after.

The official unveiling will occur at the March 5 press day for the 2013 Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland. The above video is a teaser from Rolls-Royce.

Courtesy of: Rolls-Royce

So will the Rolls-Royce Wraith be the most powerful and dynamic car ever launched by the illustrious British automaker? Only time will tell.