Sweetheart Rock on Lanai, Hawaii – A Lover’s Legend

Sweetheart Rock on island of Lanai - Hawaii

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.




Valentine’s Day Cocktail with Sandeman Founders Reserve Porto

Sandeman Porto
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
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.




New Rolls-Royce Wraith, Luxury Coupe


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.

new Rolls-Royce Wraith coupe
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.




Experience an Unforgettable Wedding in Tropical St. Barth

st barths
St Barthelemy

Getting married is a cherished event and its memories will last a lifetime. Why not do it in style and have your wedding on one of the most beautiful places on earth.

St. Barth is the perfect wedding destination. This French West Indies island offers a little Garden of Eden surrounded by turquoise seas, a haven of peace under the tropical sun, where white sand beaches invite lazy afternoons or romantic sunsets.

St Barts Island or also know as St Barthelemy or simply St Barths, is located in the French Caribbean near St Martin and Anguilla.

Couples dream of wanting to spend “the most beautiful day of their life” in paradise. The Caribbean island of St. Barth provides a lifestyle that conjures up countless ways to celebrate a wedding.

romantic fantasy beach wedding

A recent change now allows U.S. visitors can get officially married in St. Barth without delay of residence. Now’s your chance to say “I Do” in a tropical paradise!

Say ‘I Do’ in Paradise: US Visitors Can Now Officially Wed in St. Barth. Enjoy empty white sand beaches, perfect for a stroll arm in arm in the early hours of the morning or at night. Get out and explore hidden corners and places filled with refinement and charm or simply relax by shopping or basking in the warmth of discreet hospitality that caters to your every need.

The island of St. Barth has perfected the art of combining various contrasts to provide a uniquely new upscale concept along with exclusive generosity and impulse. With its stunning scenery and Mediterranean-like charm, this island paradise offers a blend of French refinement and style spiced with Caribbean joie de vivre, all with that inimitably American way of life.




Spend a Magnificent Day in Venice Courtesy of The BAUERs Hotel

bauer il palazzo hotel venice - italy
The BAUERs Hotel

Love is always in the air in the romantic city of Venice, Italy and Venice also offers an impressive lineup of amazing cultural events.

If you are planning a trip to Venice, Italy – there is no better place to stay than The BAUERs Hotel. The luxury Italian hotel is located in the heart of Venice, just two minutes walking distance from historic St. Mark’s Square. This is definitely the ideal spot to experience this magnificent city in all aspects plus discover its culture and beauty.

The BAUERs can provide for all their guests’ needs, from museum visits to nightly entertainment. The hotel is also complete with its own water taxi dock to ensure that guests travel through the famous canals of Venice is simple an hassle-free.

Venice Italy - romantic gondola canal ride

The first thing to do to begin your day with a Venetian sunrise and a delicious gourmet breakfast served at the “Settimo Cielo” restaurant located on the terrace of The BAUERs Il Palazzo, the highest in all of Venice. From this truly magnificent viewpoint, you will observe the sun lift over the ancient buildings, the basin of San Marco, the spectacular white dome of Santa Maria Della Salute, and the world famous Grand Canal.

After breakfast, enjoy one of the several cultural things available for this autumn day in Venice. For art lovers, Museo Correr will house a monographic exhibition dedicated to Francesco Guardi, the last great landscape artist of the 18th century. The experience will not stop at the museum though – The BAUERs can in fact provide private tours of the locations that inspired the exhibit.

The rest of the afternoon could be spent discovering more about Italian artists at the Biennale’s new Padiglione Italia, a unique location that overlooks the Gaggiandre and the 16th century Tese on one side and the Giardino della Vergini on the other. After an entire day of walking, guests of The BAUERs can relax at Il Palladio Hotel Spa, on Giudecca Island. Here it’s possible to enjoy different treatments, such as a soothing Venetian bath with milk and roses.

At night, Venice would not be the same without a romantic candlelight dinner in The BAUERs gourmet restaurant De Pisis. Among the signature dishes served at De Pisis, is the Risotto with carrot juice, oranges and chicory sprouts as a favorite.

Guests can also enjoy a great tasting cocktail and after dinner drinks at the luxury hotel’s intimate Bar. Here it is possible to taste barman Gennario Forio’s new autumn cocktail – Sensation. The cocktail is red like Christmas time and sparkly like New Year delicious champagne. The ingredients are all mixed up with a selection of shakers coming from all over the world from the 1930’s to the latest styles.

There is no better day to end your memorable day in Venice., Italy

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    Rare, Forty Year Old Bunnahabhain 40 YO Whisky

    Bunnahabhain 40 YO - rare scotch whisky
    Bunnahabhain 40 YO

    The multi-award winning Bunnahabhain is the flagship malt whisky from Burn Stewart Distillers. Bunnahabhain is exported to over 30 countries around the world.

    Bunnahabhain recently announced it will release a one-off rare single malt that discovered after four decades later in its Islay distillery, located on the north-east of Scotland.

    The company’s distillery plans to release only 750 bottles. Each bottle will be hand signed and individually numbered.

    Master Distiller, Ian MacMillan, discovered the casks of the rare whisky quietly matured were listed in the ledgers of the distillery.

    The ‘Turney’ whisky casks were initially filled with the precious Bunnahabhain malt over 40 years ago by eminent Glasgow wine merchants, J G Turney.

    Ian MacMillan, was quoted, “It was an exhilarating moment to stumble on such a special find. There
    are very few 40 year old Islays and unlike any other, Bunnahabhain’s taste is considered unique because the distillery does not heavily peat the fine malted barley.”

    Bunnahabhain 40 YO
    RRP: £1,999
    Unchill-filtered (41.7% ABV)

    This great tasting malt whisky makes the perfect addition to any party or social gathering. Also make it a holiday gift for that special person in your life. He or she won’t be disappointed.




    Kelly Rippa and Mark Consuelos $24.5M New York Home for Sale

    Kelly Rippa and Mark Consuelos $24.5M New York Home for Sale
    Courtesy of: The Modling Group

    Reported by the New York Daily News, celebrity talk show host Kelly Rippa and her husband Mark Consuelos have placed their luxury New York City loft on the market for a whopping $24.5 million!

    The wealthy couple’s stunning home is located in New York City on 76 Crosby Street in the high-end Soho neighborhood. The luxurious Penthouse is in 76 Crosby Street Condominiums.

    Featuring five bedrooms and four and one half bathrooms, the home also has an outdoor kitchen and stunning 12’3″ ceilings.

    The celebrity couple purchased the luxury New York City Soho home back in 2005 for $9.5 million. The beautiful master suite features two large walk-in closets and gorgeous marble master bath was designed for the ultimate in pampering and relaxation.

    Between the home’s two floors, is an incredible floating staircase up against a Balinese feature wall.

    Kelly Rippa and Mark Consuelos $24.5M New York Home for Sale
    Courtesy of: The Modling Group

    The amazing kitchen is clearly a chef’s dream, loaded with the best, high end appliances. We can just imaging Kelly Rippa making a meal for her loving family. There’s three Sub-Zero refrigerators, a fully vented six burner Wolf stove with griddle, two Electrolux dishwashers plus custom milled wood and stainless cabinetry.

    In addition, if you decide to purchase this $24.5M New York home, you can also enjoy a full-time doorman.

    This luxury home is represented by The Modling Group – Adam Modlin.

    Please use the Contact Form to learn more about the Kelly Rippa and Mark Consuelos Soho home for sale. We will promptly get back to you.

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      Enjoy Winter Adventure Activities Without Skis in Colorado

      Rocky Mountains - Colorado snow

      Winter has arrived in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado and this world famous winter adventure mecca for outdoor activities has something for everyone. Colorado features 25 world-class ski resorts and areas, all offering epic skiing and snowboarding. The perfect place for a winter adventure.

      But it really doesn’t matter if you are not an avid skier or snowboarder. Colorado has numerous ways to enjoy yourself and try an adventure without skis.

      Experience the other side of Colorado’s winter season, by enjoying other winter sports activities from ice climbing and snowmobiling to snow biking and dog sledding.

      Snowmobiling in Aspen. (http://www.aspensnowmobileconcierge.com)
      Aspen is known throughout the world as a winter ski destination where celebrities and luminaries flock for some of the best skiing in the country. And yet the region also boasts a plethora of other winter activities, including snowmobiling. Snowmobile cross is an event in the Winter X Games, which take place in Aspen every January. For non-pros, access to amazing snowmobiling is widely available from outfitters such as the Aspen Snowmobile Concierge tours, including the popular Timberline Tour. This guided tour heads through Aspen’s high mountain parks and pristine forests and is suited for ages four and up. Visitors will see spectacular views of Aspen and Snowmass Mountains nestled away from the glitzy resort. All tours have free practice riding time in open meadows so guests can familiarize themselves with the equipment and terrain. Hot beverages are also served.

      Snow Biking in Telluride. (http://www.bootdoctors.com)
      Home to world-class skiing and snowboarding, Telluride is one of the finest ski resorts in the world. It is also an amazing area for non-skiers looking for fun winter activities. Telluride, known for its amazing mountain biking from spring through fall, now offers snow biking in the winter for the first time. Local area outfitter BootDoctors offers Big Tire Bike Tours on Salsa Mukluk fat bikes starting this winter season, an adventure that can be tailored to various riding
      abilities. A stop at the Telluride Brewing Company for an après bike libation can be included as part of the half day Big Tire Bike and Brew Tour.

      Ice Climbing in Ouray. (http://www.ourayicepark.com)
      The tiny southwestern Colorado town of Ouray is known for off-roading and biking in the spring through fall seasons. However, every winter, the town attracts visitors from around the world for its amazing ice climbing at the Ouray Ice Park. In January, the ice park hosts the annual Ouray Ice Festival, the premier ice climbing festival in the U.S., which attracts skilled ice climbers and spectators from around the world. The Ouray Ice Park also offers the Kids Climbing College, a free ice climbing clinic for kids ages 8-17, hosted by San Juan Mountain Guides. All equipment is provided and is offered on a first come, first served basis.

      Snowshoeing in Vail. (http://www.vail.com)
      The posh resort of Vail is synonymous with world-class skiing. The resort, which celebrates its 50th season in 2013, offers every snow sport visitors can imagine, from skiing and snowboarding to ice climbing and snowmobiling. But the area is also home to amazing snowshoeing on groomed trails, for those who want to explore some backcountry beauty on their own. Pack some snacks and bottled water, strap on your snowshoes and you’re on your way. Many area outfitters offer snowshoes and all necessary equipment to enjoy a day exploring Colorado’s backcountry.

      Dog Sledding in Durango. (http://www.durangodogranch.com)
      Southwest Colorado is home to the popular ski resort Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort. The skiing and riding is top-notch but Durango is also home to the Durango Dog Ranch, which offers amazing dog sledding tours on groomed backcountry trails. The ranch’s season runs from mid November until mid April, weather permitting. There is a guide on every sled and all participants will get a chance to drive the sled. Snacks are included.

      Georgetown Jeep Ice Racing.  (http://www.ourgangiceracing.com)
      For the past 37 years, Our Gang Ice Racing has been holding jeep ice races on Georgetown Lake in the charming Victorian town of Georgetown, Colorado. On weekends in January and February, Georgetown is transformed into a racetrack for Jeeps and other four-wheel drive vehicles. Experience levels vary but there is a beginner’s class, which allows anyone with a driver’s license to participate in a race.

      Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park. (http://www.nps.gov/romo)
      Iconic Rocky Mountain National Park receives heavy snowfall west of the Continental Divide. But the eastern side of the park receives lighter snowfall, leaving low elevation trails (below 8,700 feet) open for hiking without the need for snowshoes. Trails range anywhere from 1.5 to three miles in length and are rated easy to moderate in terms of difficulty. Along the trails, visitors can see lakes, streams and valleys dotted with evergreens and aspens. Before each outing, check with park rangers for local snow conditions.

      To receive more information or a copy of the 2013 Colorado Official State Vacation Guide, please visit www.COLORADO.com

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

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        Top Five Luxury Ski Vacation Destinations

        Arlberg Hospiz - Austria

        Winter is getting near. Everyone needs a great getaway vacation / holiday. Why not treat yourself to a luxury ski holiday.

        You will enjoy the natural beauty and be treated like royalty when choosing just the right resort. Here are some of the top 5 resorts to choose from for your upcoming ski vacation – holiday getaway:

        – Chamonix, France
        – Tignes, France
        – Arabba, Italy
        – Whistler, Canada
        – Vemdalen, Sweden

        So where do you want to celebrate the holidays and enjoy a luxury sky vacation?




        Johnnie Walker Beijing – Luxury Whisky Embassy

        Johnnie Walker House Beijing - China scotch bottles
        Johnnie Walker House Beijing

        The world’s number one Blended Scotch Whisky, Johnnie Walker, is proud to announce the grand opening of Johnnie Walker Beijing located at the prestigious Ch’ien Men. It is the world’s largest luxury whisky embassy outside of Scotland.

        With the success of the first Johnnie Walker House in Shanghai which opened last year, and continuing the brand’s “Keep Walking” campaign, Johnnie Walker House Beijing provides consumers an exclusive luxury whisky experience.

        Johnnie Walker House Beijing - China scotch
        Johnnie Walker House Beijing

        Lawrence Law, General Manager, Johnnie Walker House stated, “Johnnie Walker House Beijing is a multi-sensory experience, showcasing Scotch Whisky culture; it is a luxury boutique, selling the Master Blender’s finest work; it is a private club, providing a new cultural platform for whisky appreciation; and it is an artistic space, providing inspiration for new forms of creativity.”

        Guests at Johnnie Walker Beijing can select and buy rare whisky; they will have the opportunity to participate in the art of blending, and partake in whisky and culinary food-pairings provided by chef Phoebe Cleland. Explore the four level House while learning the story behind the whisky’s journey to China, and experience the Johnnie Walker culture with expert guides educating you on the workings of the whisky distillation process.

        Whisky known to be the choice of drink among men is now a growing favorite among women too. Christina Hendricks is the latest Johnnie Walker brand ambassador stating: “I enjoy it and drink it at home, it’s something my husband and I enjoy together, but it’s also something that I drink socially. I’m a Johnnie Walker on the rocks girl.”




        Beautiful Hollywood Actress Emma Stone

        Emma Stone - Hollywood celebrity movie actor
        Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

        Emma Stone, born Emily Jean Stone on November 6, 1988, was a member of the Valley Youth Theater, making her first stage debut as a child actor in “The Wind in the Willows”.

        At the age of 15, she decided to make acting her career, but first she had to convince her parents. As the story goes, she made a PowerPoint presentation entitled “Project Hollywood” set to a Madonna song in an attempt to persuade her parents to allow her to drop out of school and move to Los Angeles. Her parents agreed, and in January 2004, she and her mother moved to a Los Angeles apartment where she was home schooled so that she could spend her days auditioning.

        Emma Stone - Hollywood celebrity movie actor
        Patrick L., CC BY-SAL 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

        She landed a number of small TV roles with her big TV breakthrough being when she won a part on the talent/reality show “In Search of the Partridge Family.”

        Her movie debut in “Superbad” in 2007, followed by a number of successful performances, landed her a leading role in “Easy A” in 2010 establishing her as a star.

        After registering for the Screen Actors Guild, Stone chose the name “Emma” a nickname her mother had given her, because there was already a listing for an “Emily Stone”. She first chose Riley Stone as her professional name, but decided she was more comfortable with Emma after doing a guest appearance on “Malcolm in the Middle.” Her family and friends call her Emily.

        Other Hollywood movies Emma Stone has played in are “The Help”, “Crazy, Stupid, Love”, “The House Bunny”, “Ghosts of Girlfriends Past”,”Paper Man” and “Marmaduke”.

        Emma Stone along with Seth MacFarlane recently announced the 2013 Oscar nominations.

        Stone stars in the film “Gangster Squad” which is due for release on January 11, 2013 in North America.