Summer is the time for parties and celebrations such as family reunions, barbecues and numerous summertime social gatherings.

Make sure your friends and family members enjoy great tasting cocktails. Tequila Don Julio is the perfect choice and will make any summer occasion a popular one with your guests.

Tequila Don Julio is offering several choice drink recipes that feature its tequila paired with lagers, resulting in the new go-to drink.

Try a Palo-veza after you finish that round of golf or a Little Dragon served with some spicy sausage at a backyard barbecue. Tequila Don Julio has the perfect recipe for you.

Here are the two Tequila Don Julio cocktail recipes:

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Palo-veza:
Created by New York City mixologist Tim Cooper
Ingredients:
1 ounce Tequila Don Julio Reposado
3 ounces Grapefruit Soda
3 ounces Lager
Grapefruit Peel for Garnish

Preparation:
1. Combine Tequila Don Julio Reposado, grapefruit soda and lager into a highball glass with ice (salted rim optional).
2. Garnish with a long grapefruit peel.

Ideal Serving Glass:
Highball glass

Yield:
1 drink, no drink contains more than 0.6 fluid ounces of alcohol

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Little Dragon:
Created by New York City mixologist Tim Cooper
Ingredients:
3/4 ounce Tequila Don Julio Blanco
1/4 ounce Green Pepper Jalapeño Hot Sauce
1/4 ounce Agave nectar
3/4 ounce Fresh Lime Juice
6 ounces Lager
Pinch of Celery Salt

Preparation:
1. Combine Tequila Don Julio Blanco, green pepper jalapeño hot sauce, agave nectar, lime juice and celery salt into a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Shake and strain into a highball glass then top with six ounces of lager.
3. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Ideal Serving Glass:
Highball glass

Yield:
1 drink, no drink contains more than 0.6 fluid ounces of alcohol

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Photo: Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge

Situated on the secluded Southwestern coast of the Dominican Republic, the incredible 12-room, eco-luxe Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge lies on a hilltop and is surrounded by tropical forests.

The Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge is nestled in a lush jungle oasis and also offers guests breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.

This family owned property serves up the ultimate in green luxury by featuring its own electricity producing hydro plant, expansive sustainable garden and the organic Tanama River Spa.

The Dominican Republic’s eco-luxe Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge is now offering a special “Holistic Rebirth Package” for eco-conscious travelers who desire the ultimate, rejuvenating spa-cation.

This six-day, five-night travel package highlights the hotel’s organic river spa, on-site garden and rich biodiversity. It’s your chance to experience a rejuvenating retreat into Taino tradition.

<img style=”border: 1px solid black; margin: 5px;” src=”/images/casa_bonita_tropical_lodge.jpg” alt=”eco-luxe Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge – Dominican Republic” width=”500″ height=”333″ />

Featuring a five-hour Rebirth spa day complete with Larimar stone massage and mango body wrap, fresh pressed organic juices, meditation sessions and natural healing courses, this is the perfect getaway for health-concious couples, groups of friends, mother-daughter pairs, and even bridal parties!

Here’s a summary of “Holistic Rebirth Package” now offered by the Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge:

• Rebirth Spa Day – Let the rainforest consume you as you enjoy five-hours of uninterrupted pampering in this Taino paradise. Treatments include:

– Tropical Pineapple and Mango Body Wrap – Get lost in the sweet aroma of organically grown local pineapple and mango during this sumptuous body wrap performed in the spa’s temazcal. The treatment is designed to nurture, moisturize, cleanse and detoxify the body.

– Hydrating Facial – Nourish your skin, as the perfect combination of green tea, aloe vera, honey, calendula mint extract and chamomile restore freshness and brightness to your face.

– Tropical Foot Bath – Indulge your feet in an exquisite combination of aromatic salts, before enjoying a mild exfoliation and tropical coconut foot mask.

– Ciba Azul Massage – Experience total harmony during this exotic hot and cold stone massage, including a healing therapy performed with the Dominican’s native Larimar stone.

– Candlelit Jacuzzi – Take in the sights and sounds of the jungle setting, during a relaxing herbal soak overlooking the soothing river.

• Trio of Exotic Daily Juices – From pineapple and spinach to tamarind, mango and guanabana, let Casa Bonita’s chef craft delectable fresh pressed juices for you to enjoy throughout the day. All juices are made from produce grown in the hotel’s organic garden.

• Meditation Session – Relish the subtle breeze as you rejuvenate your mind during an hour long guided mediation session in an open-air pavilion overlooking the soothing river.

• Nature Hikes – Trace the property’s rainforest trails during daily, guided hikes that expose you to the property’s astounding biodiversity.

• Natural Healing Course – Relish the expertise of the property’s healer as you learn how to make teas, scrubs and other home remedies with healing powers. Discover the health benefits of different plants and fruits to continue your holistic journey at home.

• Beach Exfoliation – Indulge your skin as you are whisked away to a secluded beach for your choice of exfoliation treatment. Listen to the waves splash along the shore, as the breeze caresses your skin – leaving you reinvigorated and refreshed.

Package prices begin at only $1,495 for single occupancy and $1,795 for double occupancy. Included are five-nights accommodations in a deluxe cabin, daily breakfast, and transfer to and from the airport in Santo Domingo.

It’s time for you to submit yourself to the all-encompassing sights and sounds of this jungle dreamscape, as you unwind during Casa Bonita’s new five-night, Holistic Rebirth package.

To make your reservations at the Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge, please contact The Life of Luxury by using the form below:

Photo: Le Palais des Thés

Tea company Le Palais des Thés, was first created in Paris in 1986 by Francois-Xavier Delmas.

Le Palais des Thés offers all-natural Signature Flavored Teas (‘Les Creations”), pure Single Estate Teas, and exceptional, limited edition “Grand Crus”.

All of the company’s tea products are available online via their e-boutique, plus in their first two American stores located in New York City.

Leveraging their signature “Créations”, Le Palais des Thés has now moved into the the world of fragrance with its new candle range.

Offering five amazing scents that are each inspired by a moment of pleasure, this new line of luxury candles will truly take you on a voyage around the world.

Here’s a description of each of the five new fragrance candles from Le Palais des Thés:

– Imagine yourself in the hushed, sensual and mysterious atmosphere of a traditional Chinese tea house with Thé des Concubines candle. This candle is based on a signature blend of green and black tea, with fruity, flowery, and spicy notes ($45).

– Take a hot bath in an Istanbul hammam with the Thé du Hammam candle. This azure candle is an Eastern celebration of fresh green tea, delicate rose petals and orange blossom, ripe red fruits and crystallised fruits ($45).

– Follow the scent of cherry blossoms through the shrines of Kyoto with the Fleur de Geisha candle. This chic pink candle is based on the airy and celestial fragrance of Le Palais des Thés’ signature green tea ($45).

– Dream of Sicilian orchards and London fog with Thé des Lords candle. As it burns, its fragrance intensifies – solar, unpredictable, elegant. The candle and its bright green packaging are an invitation to vitality ($45).

– Meditate at a Buddhist temple in Tibet with Thé des Moines candle. Scented with sacred plants and flowers, this warm ochre candle releases its mystical, luminous, enchanting bouquet as it burns. Perfect for a calm, relaxing environment ($45).

All five candles from Le Palais des Thés will burn for approximately 50 hours and are available for immediate purchase at http://us.palaisdesthes.com

Villa Aquamare is found on the scenic Western coast of Virgin Gorda at Mahoe Bay. It sits along half a mile of pristine beach frontage, and includes three 8,000 square-foot private luxury villas.

The British Virgin Islands is a tropical oasis year-round but summer is the ideal time to visit and enjoy this beautiful place.

Villa Aquamare is a luxury enclave of three secluded villas, each offering its own private infinity pool. Staffed with an on-site concierge and beach attendants, Villa Aquamare combines the services of a five-star hotel with the exclusivity of a private villa stay.

Photo: Villa Aquamare

But you don’t want to spend a fortune on your vacation, so what can you do? The Villa Aquamare’s Summer Escape package is just what the doctor ordered. The luxury villa property is offering 9 nights in one of Villa Aquamare’s luxury villas for just the price of a 7-night stay.

At approximately $213 per person, per night, based on a nine night stay for 10 guests, it’s a remarkably
affordable taste of luxury in this British Virgin Islands paradise.

Aquamare is the new benchmark for luxury villa rentals on one of the B.V.I.’s quietest and most exclusive islands.

Soak in the sun and enjoy the gorgeous views. Guests have access to Villa Aquamare’s private sandy Beach Park, where they can linger and unwind on a Dream Bed that looks out over the tranquil Caribbean.

Here is what’s included in the The Villa Aquamare’s Summer Escape package:

* 9 nights in one of Villa Aquamare’s 8,000 square foot five-bedroom villas. The villa boasts a spacious living room and dining room area, gourmet kitchen, multiple terraces, and a private infinity pool.
* Meet & Greet at airport or Spanish Town Marina
* Land transfers to the villa
* Use of the Beach Park, with kayaks and snorkeling equipment to explore the reef that lies just offshore
* Priced at $19,100 for 9 nights, based on maximum occupancy of 10 guests. Taxes and service charges are extra
* Valid from through August 31, 2013

So don’t wait any longer. Villa Aquamare is the perfect summer escape for families and friends, a delightful way to experience the luxury, relaxation and the stunning natural beauty that are hallmarks of the best of the British Virgin Islands.

To make your travel reservation at Villa Aquamare in the British Virgin Islands, please contact The Life of Luxury by using the below form:

Kilbeggan

Although Father’s Day just passed, dads still desire a great tasting whiskey year-round. Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey has the perfect solution.

Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey comes from the oldest operating distillery in Ireland, and its fine whiskey is double-distilled so that it retains its one-of-a-kind flavor.

Kilbeggan Distillery can be found on the River Brosna in Kilbeggan, Ireland. It’s proud to be recognized as the world’s oldest distillery that is still producing the finest Irish whiskey.

By partnering with Eoghan (Owen) Hughes, who’s a bar manager at the Knockranny House Hotel in Mayo, Ireland – Kilbeggan wanted to pay homage to a traditional Irish breakfast, the Dad’s Secret Dram.

Now people fro all over the world, can enjoy sipping and savoring their favorite whiskey just like the Irish do.

Kilbeggan Dad’s Secret Dram

Ingredients:
– 2 Parts Kilbeggan® Irish Whiskey
– 3/4 Part Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice

– 1 Part Honey Syrup (1/2 honey 1/2 water)
– 2 Dashes Orange Bitters
– 1 Part Egg White

Method:
Pour all ingredients into a shaker and shake to mix well and emulsify. Add ice and shake hard for another 15 seconds. Pour into a large tumbler over ice. This is a “man’s drink,” so no garnish is needed.

Photo: Parajet

It’s a bird, it’s a plane, no it’s Superman! Wrong again, it could be you flying through the air in a paramotor.

The latest Superman film titled “Man of Steel” was just released, so what perfect way to celebrate the flying superhero.

Parajet offers an exciting way to fly like Superman. Paramotoring is the most rapidly developing form of aviation and becoming more popular every day.

A paramotor is made from a combination of a paraglider and power unit. Around 1990, paramotoring surfaced as a new why to fly when paragliders added a simple backpack motor that provided them instant thrust and superior mobility.

What makes paramotoring so popular is that it can easily fit in the back of a standard size car. It’s the best way to fly without the requirement of a license. Plus it’s much less expensive than other forms of flying.

Paramotoring is widely used from people of all walks including businessmen, sport-lovers, adrenaline enthusiasts and even travelers. Parajet Paramoter is a leading company offering this exciting outdoor activity.

If you desire to learn, you can take a training course at one of Europe’s leading paramotoring schools – in Spain, about 25 minutes from the Costa Brava coastline.

Parajet Paramoter offers 6 or 12 day long courses that are led by a small number of qualified professional and passionate instructors. Get your thrills and soar like a bird, reaching heights of up to 10,000 ft and speeds of up to 45 mph!

If you’ve ever wanted to satisfy your childhood dream of flying, then don’t wait another day. Take advantage of this unbelievable opportunity to safely enter the sport of paramotoring and get flying with Parajet.

Photo: Stella McCartney

Fashion designer Stella McCartney is Central Saint Martins alumnus. She launched her own fashion label back in 2001, just after finishing her apprenticeship on Savile Row.

The English fashion designer is the daughter of former Beatles member Sir Paul McCartney and is respected for her luxury fashion line.

Stella McCartney offers a signature style of sharp tailoring, natural confidence and sexy femininity, and has created a well known fashion brand of creative sportswear-inspired clothes and streamlined evening dresses.

Stella McCartney has added a gorgeous piece to her handbag collection by offering a Faux python leather skin bag. The luxury handbag features the label’s standout gold chain embellishment.

Features of the Faux Python Hobo Bag by Stella McCartney:

– Top handle, 10″ drop
– Magnetic snap closure
– One inside zip pocket
– One inside open pocket
– Fully lined
– 16″W X 14½”H X 8″D
– Made in Italy

If you would like to purchase this Faux Python Hobo Bag by Stella McCartney, please contact The Life of Luxury. We can also help with other luxury fashion products that you may desire. Keep up with latest luxury fashion news by following this luxury blog.

Photo: Harvest Inn

The Harvest Inn is a AAA Four Diamond hotel that’s located in scenic St. Helena.

With summer almost here, the luxury hotel in the world famous Napa Valley, is introducing its new ‘Healthy Living in Napa Valley’ package.

The Harvest Inn is surrounded by many world-class wineries and extraordinary dining. It’s the is the ideal retreat where hotel guests can simply relax and rejuvenate after a full day of local wine country adventures.

The Harvest Inn serves up a truly authentic Napa Valley experience, so much so that guests return here again and again. The luxury hotel features country estate-style accommodations such as uniquely designed, well-appointed brick and wood cottages, guestrooms and suites spread over eight acres of gorgeously landscaped gardens and hundreds of redwood trees.

The new “Healthy Living in Napa Valley” package being offered by the Harvest Inn, provides its guests an exclusive blend of outdoor adventures with the best in food, wine and relaxation in the heart of Napa Valley.

The Harvest Inn “Healthy Living in Napa Valley” Package includes the following amenities:

* luxurious two-night stay in a charming guestroom at the Harvest Inn
* unique cycling excursion from Clif Family Winery at Velo Vino, followed by a post-ride Le Maillot Jaune tasting experience
* two 60-minute rejuvenating massage therapy treatments
* $100 gift card to Cindy Pawlcyn’s Wood Grill and Wine Bar
* complimentary wine country breakfast each morning, tailored amenities, access to the fitness center and pool, plus much more!

The unique cycling excursion will provide lasting memories. The “Cruiser Road Rental Package” from Clif Family Winery at Velo Vino, includes a cruiser bike rental from Calistoga Bike Shop, customized fitting, and bicycle helmet.

Prior to your cycling journey, guests will enjoy a complimentary espresso and Clif Bar at Velo Vino. You’ll pick up a map noting the top bike routes in picturesque Napa Valley or have a customized ride developed just for them.

In addition, your “Healthy Living in Napa Valley” package also comes with:

* Complimentary wine country breakfast each morning
* Wine and cheese tastings on Friday and Saturday evenings in the Harvest Inn’s Great Room
* Access to the Fitness Center and swimming pool
* On-site parking
* Free Internet access

The Harvest Inn features stunning vineyard and mountain vistas, two heated swimming pools open 24 hours, a well-equipped Fitness Room, massage treatment rooms tucked into the gardens and among the redwoods, complimentary breakfast daily, warm, inviting hospitality and high-quality service, plus a relaxed, retreat-like atmosphere steeped in comfortable luxury.

For guests that simply want to unwind and let your escape your worries, just beyond the lobby you’ll find the Inn’s spacious Great Room, where guests enjoy fireside wine tastings beside the massive cobblestone hearth.

In addition, the cozy wine bar offers fine samples of local vintages as well as tranquil views, handsome leather sofas, a grand piano and backgammon tables.

To take advantage of the “Healthy Living in Napa Valley” package and book a reservation at the Harvest Inn hotel in St. Helena, please contact The Life of Luxury using the below form:

Photo: Jaquet Droz

Almost 250 years ago, Jaquet Droz introduced its very first humanoid automata. The well respected tradition lives on and is intact, along with the emotion.

Honoring Baselworld 2013, Jaquet Droz presents Charlie, its latest automaton. Charlie now becomes the newest addition to Jaquet Droz’s highly regarded family tree of automata.

In Versailles, France in 1775, in front of the most refined and powerful royal court of Europe, Pierre Jaquet-Droz presented three creations which astonished nobles and courtesans: an organ player, a draftsman and a writer.

Photo: Jaquet Droz

Stunningly realistic, the cutting-edge automata were initially driven by mechanisms of impressive complexity to recreate realistic human movements that gave the luxury brand from La Chaux-de-Fonds an amazing boost.

Charlie now becomes the newest addition and was just presented at BaselWorld 2013. Charlie is a truly charming diplomat and programmed to make four-minute performances presenting the brand’s new line of luxury watches.

Standing 1.65-meter-tall, this authentic sculptural work offers meticulous proportions and becomes the ideal brand ambassador for Jaquet Droz.

If you would like to purchase a luxury watch like luxury watchmaker Jaquet Droz, contact The Life of Luxury. Stay on top of all the latest luxury watch news by following this luxury blog.

Photo: Sotto Sopra

There’s nothing like walking into a restaurant and feel like you are welcome. Sotto Sopra in Amagansett, New York is one such fine dining place.

First established in 1969, Bobby Van’s Steakhouses have become highly regarded in New York City’s dining scene. Providing superior customer service and quality food, Bobby Van’s maintains the same high standards over four decades later.

The team behind Bobby Van’s Steakhouses – owners Joseph Smith and Rick Passarelli, operate their Italian eatery, Sotto Sopra in the exclusive Hamptons.

Sotto Sopra has become known for its Italian cuisine, as well as the classic steakhouse fare that Bobby Van’s customers are accustomed to – fusing a modern Tuscan atmosphere with traditional Italian cuisine.

This charming Northern Italian eatery features a wide selection of classic dishes which showcase the restaurants always fresh ingredients. The menu at Sotto Sopra was developed under the culinary influence of Chef Josh Savi.

The dinner menu offers a variety of impeccably flavored dishes from the menu’s Antipasto, Insalate, Le Pizza, Pranzo, Pesce, Carne, Classico Bisteccheria, Piatti Laterali per Due, and Primi Piatti selections. While dining, guests can indulge in Sotto Sopra’s original cocktail menu and extensive wine list.

If you’re considering a fine dining experience at Sotto Sopra, keep a look out for celebrities. This Amagansett hotspot has gained a celebrity following with famous actors including Alec Baldwin, Cameron Diaz and John Slattery, plus successful fashion designers Michael Kors and David Yurman.

Sotto Sopra is open seven days a week for dinner and Saturday & Sunday for brunch.

Sotto Sopra
231 Main Street
Amagansett, NY
(631) 267-3695

Plan your next vacation to New York and dine at the Sotto Sopra by contacting The Life of Luxury. We can assist with all your luxury travel needs. Keep abreast of all the latest luxury travel news by following this luxury blog.

Photo: The Draycott

The Draycott hotel in London, is the British city’s most refined and charming boutique hotel.

The Draycott Hotel can be found in a stunning 19th century townhouse at 26 Cadogan Gardens in Knightsbridge, inside the borough of Kensington & Chelsea.

As one of the premiere hotels in London and offering five-star accommodations, The Draycott is now offering an incredible package for its guests.

You can have the opportunity to enhance your summer wardrobes with the help of personal shopper and fashion stylist, Ghaz and the world class boutique shopping of Chelsea and Sloane Square.

Photo: The Draycott

The full package is based on a two night stay that also includes morning breakfast for two people plus afternoon tea.

After you’re ready to get your day started, hotel guests will meet with Ghaz, who offers a unique experience for those in search of the most enviable summer wardrobe.

Ghaz is well respected and provides a highly individualized personal styling, wardrobe planning and accompanied personal shopping service for both men and women across the entire London area.

This truly bespoke service is a one of a kind and features a four-hour VIP shopping experience that allows you to take in vintage, new designer and couture shopping throughout the boutiques of Chelsea, Sloane Square and Kings Road.

The Draycott package includes the following:

· Full English Breakfast
· Half day personal shopping and consultation with Ghaz
· Afternoon Tea for two including tea or infusions, a selection of sandwiches, traditional homemade fruit cake, scones, handmade preserves, butter and clotted cream

Hotel package rates are based on a two night stay (rates include VAT):

· Superior Double: £690
· Deluxe Double: £835
· Suite: £979

When you are done with your memorable shopping indulgence, it’s time to head back to The Draycott to enjoy a well-deserved afternoon tea for two served in the splendid drawing room designed by Nina Campbell. This beautiful room overlooks the private garden, and at 6pm – hotel guests can enjoy further pampering with a complimentary glass of champagne.

To book your reservation at The Draycott hotel in London, please contact The Life of Luxury using the form below.