The modern Romeo

Posted by Staff in Italy, Luxury Monday

For those looking to experience modern luxury in Naples, Italy, there is a new offering available…the Romeo Hotel, which just officially opened this past week.

Conceived by the famed Japanese architect Kenzo Tange, and completed by his son Paul…the Romeo looks like it will be the place for modern art loving jet-setters. The hotel is adorned with both rare and commissioned works from contemporary artists such as: Francesco Clementa, Segio Fermiello, and Lello Esposito, and permanent installations by top Neapolitan photographers such as: Monica Biancardi, Antonio Biasiucci and Mimmo Jodice…which accent Tange’s overall design. 

What looks particularly interesting is the spa’s design, which is said to pay homage to two of the city’s defining natural features: the Gulf of Naples and Mt. Vesuvius…juxtaposing the themes of water and fire, the relaxation steam room and Jacuzzi feature soft, red lighting, while the outdoor terrace and pool seamlessly blend into the blue sea on the horizon.

Although I have not had the pleasure of jetting over to Naples in the last week to fully inspect it, I thought I would point this boutique hotel out as one to watch.  Rooms start at $450, for more information visit RomeoHotel.it

Citygirl becomes a cowgirl

Posted by Staff in Luxury Monday, Texas

I am known for not being an outdoors-woman….I’m more well known for how well I can work a city.  So when I told my friends and family I was going to spend a few days on a guest ranch in Texas…the immediate reaction was to get me strait to the hospital. What they did not know is that I had picked a guest ranch that catered to my luxury seeking heart, Wildcatter Ranch…as the owners call it “the resort ranch on the texas range.”

Located about two hours northwest of Dallas…or the metroplex, as the locals say….the Wildcatter Ranch is 1,500 acres of pure Texan bliss. The resort consists of 16 uniquely decorated suites grouped in four cabins. As with all elements of the resort, the rooms are the perfect marriage of luxury and western wilderness. Each suite has it’s own unique theme which reflects a distinct chapter of local history, personified through antique photos and memorabilia.

Wildcatter has taken every effort to make sure that guests remain entertained and pampered throughout their stay.  Each morning starts with a buffet breakfast in which the activities directors take time to chat with each guest to plan out their day.  The resident cowboy Jay also makes the rounds to answer any questions that you might have on how a ranch works.

Luxury on the slopes

Posted by Staff in Luxury Monday, Wyoming

Amangani, the first Amanresort in North America, located high above the Wyoming town of Jackson Hole, invites guests to join the most exceptional “ski club” in the West.  The only requirement for membership in the Amangani Ski Club is a stay of four nights or more at the sprawling resort, which is known for its exceptional décor, views and service. But the privileges are inviting, particularly for skiers: access to the Amangani Ski Lounge, two adult ski passes for three days of skiing, daily Continental breakfast and complimentary airport transfers.

Situated at the heart of the alpine Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, just steps from the Bridger Gondola and tram which provides access to some of North America’s most exciting ski terrain, the Ski Lounge provides ski-in/ski-out facilities as well as a ski concierge, storage for ski equipment, boot dryers…and of course, an après-ski hot toddy or hot chocolate.

For a break from skiing, guests can set aside a day for a Winter Wildlife Safari and discover the National Elk Refuge on cross-country skis or snowshoes.  Or spot wildlife during snowcat rides, dog-sledding, snowmobiling or sleigh rides.

For more information visit www.amanresorts.com

Jungle boogie…

Posted by Staff in Belize, Luxury Monday

Kanantik Reef & Jungle Resort, located on the southern coast of Belize, is welcoming guests this November with special savings that allow for extra time to explore.  From November 1 to December 15, 2009, guests who book four nights pay for just three (a savings of more than $300 per couple) and those staying for seven will pay for five (a savings of over $650 per couple).

This eco-sensitive resort, built where the forest meets the sea, offers guests a variety of excursions to experience the surrounding wildlife. Guided adventures include canoeing in the nearly uncharted Cabbage Haul Creek to see crocodiles, water birds and possibly manatees in the Sapodilla Lagoon, bird watching on the property, outings to the Cockscomb Basin, the world’s first jaguar sanctuary, scenic hikes to spectacular waterfalls and even a full day trip to see Mayan ruins.  Guests can explore the nearby coast with Hobie Cats and sea kayaks available at the resort.  Snorkeling and SCUBA diving excursions with certified dive masters can also be arranged directly at the resort.  Of course there’s always the option of relaxing in a swaying hammock or taking a refreshing dip in the pool.

Kanantik Reef & Jungle Resort is situated on the southern coast of Belize, surrounded by 300 acres of pristine land teeming with wildlife.  The resort is located 18 miles south of Dangriga, the cultural center of the Garifuna people, and four miles south of the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the 150,000 acre national park dedicated to the preservation of the jaguar.  Kanantik offers 25 secluded oceanfront cabanas, each designed with an ancient Mayan feel.  There are two daily rate options available – “Cabana Only” or “Deluxe Mayan Dream” all-inclusive daily rate.  Children aged 14 and older are welcome at the resort.  For more information visit www.kanantik.com