Editor En Route » Resorts and Spas

Terranea Resort’s Boot Camp

Hayley — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:22:54 +0000

I love Terranea Resort. It’s got the most fabulous location and there is so much to do at this property. Terranea’s Boot Camp is the perfect solution for both the fitness-minded person and the individual who has been meaning to get back in shape.

For $40, Terranea’s Boot Camp Resort Package offers an hour-long, vigorous “military-style” workout that makes use of the resort’s 102 beautiful coastal acres, followed by access to Terranea’s luxurious oceanfront spa facilities for a relaxing post-workout cool down. The program is open to – and challenging for – men and women alike!

The workout begins at the fitness center at 6 a.m. where participants warm-up with traditional calisthenics by the pool deck. Following the warm-up, the class ventures out around the property, usually by a short jog to get to the next location or, on a particularly hard day, by doing lunges up a steep coastal hill. The class eventually makes its way down to the beach cove to begin speed and agility drills in the sand. Along the way, the class stops at various points for a variety of exercises including tricep dips, push-ups and sprints. The class concludes back at the fitness center where participants are guided through mat work targeting abs and arms, followed by stretching.

After the workout, participants reward themselves with a day of rest and relaxation at the spa which includes a spa café where they can fuel up, as well as a steam, sauna, swimming pool, outdoor hot tub and cold plunge. For an additional fee, guests can indulge in a variety of massage, body treatments and facials.

Terranea’s Boot Camp is offered throughout the year in six-week intervals with the next session beginning July 26, 2010. The program is open to both resort guests and non-guests who can either drop by for a single workout or participate regularly throughout the session. Participants can purchase either the Basic Boot Camp (workout only) or the Resort-Style Boot Camp that includes access to the spa. Prices are as follows:

- Basic (workout only): $20 daily drop-in; $325- 3 days/week (6 weeks); $395- 5 days/week (6 weeks)

- Resort-style(with spa access): $40 daily drop-in; $650 3 days/week (6 weeks); $795- 5 days/week (6 weeks)

For reservations, contact The Spa at Terranea at 866-802-8000.

About Terranea Resort

Just 20 miles from Los Angeles International Airport, Terranea is magnificently poised above the Pacific Ocean on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Managed by Destination Hotels & Resorts, the property boasts a 582-room Resort including a 360-room hotel with 32 suites, plus 20 bungalows. Also available are 50 oceanfront casitas and 32 ocean view villas tailored specifically to individuals looking for a more residential setting.

Resort amenities include The Links at Terranea, a 9-hole par 3 golf course; The Spa at Terranea, a 25,000 square-foot oceanfront spa; and three unique swimming pools, one with children’s play area and a 140-foot waterslide. Three ocean view restaurants offer a variety of food and beverage experiences including Catalina Kitchen for casual, all-day dining, mar’sel, the free-standing signature restaurant, and Nelson’s, a cliff-side restaurant and bar with spectacular vantage points for whale watching. Designed to reveal the Resort’s dramatic outdoor vistas, Terranea’s conference and meeting facilities include 135,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space. Other amenities include a children’s center with interactive programs and several miles of scenic bluff-top trails that connect miles of off-property coastal trails. A secluded beach cove also adds to the unique experiences at Terranea Resort. For more information visit www.terranea.com or call 866-802-8000.

The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas Now Accepting Rservations

Hayley — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 14:15:50 +0000

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, a new 2,995-room casino-resort opening in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, will welcome its first guests December 15, 2010. Reservation lines are now open for the much anticipated opening of this new luxury resort.

To celebrate this milestone, The Cosmopolitan is offering guests the option to book the exclusive So Totally Over It package for their stay. The package includes overnight accommodations in a Wraparound Terrace Suite, a luxurious suite featuring panoramic views of the city. Guests will also enjoy stunning views of the Vegas Strip over complimentary cocktails for two on the terrace. The So Totally Over It experience is now available for stays between December 15, 2010 and May 29, 2011. The package price starts at $330 and can be reserved by visiting www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or calling 877.551.7772, booking code BOVR11. Please note this package is subject to availability and some restrictions may apply.

The Cosmopolitan will feature two 50-story towers across 8.7 acres of land, each featuring oversized residential style living space and expansive one-of-a-kind private terraces. The spaces are designed by a spectacular team of interior architects including David Rockwell, Jeffrey Beers, Adam D. Tihany and the Friedmutter Group.

Guests will enjoy diverse dining experiences from the country’s top chefs – all new to Las Vegas – including, Jaleo and China Poblano restaurants by Chef Jose Andres, Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill by restaurateurs Bruce and Eric Bromberg; Comme Ca by Los Angeles chef David Myers; New York City’s Estiatorio Milos by restaurateur Costas Spiliadis; Scarpetta and D.O.C.G. by award-winning chef Scott Conant; and popular steakhouse STK from The One Group.

Situated at the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is located at 3708 Las Vegas Blvd. South directly between CityCenter and the Bellagio. The resort’s uniquely vertical multi-tower design offers spectacular views of the vibrant city. The new 2,995-room resort features oversized residential-style living spaces with expansive, one-of-a-kind private terraces. Resort features include 100,000 square feet of casino space; 60,000 square feet of world class shopping; 43,000 square feet of spa, healthclub and salon offerings; three unique pool experiences and multi-level integrated nightclubs. Signature restaurants include: Jaleo and China Poblano restaurants by Chef Jose Andres, Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill by restaurateurs Bruce and Eric Bromberg; Comme Ca by Los Angeles chef David Myers; New York City’s Estiatorio Milos by restaurateur Costas Spiliadis; Scarpetta and D.O.C.G. by award-winning chef Scott Conant; and popular steakhouse STK from The One Group. For more information visit: www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com. Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Cosmopolitan_LV or find us on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/TheCosmopolitan.

Trianon Palace Versaille in France is Celebrating 100 Years

Hayley — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 15:09:07 +0000

With the Euro at an affordable low, and summer vacation right aroudn the corner, many people are considering heading to Europe this year. Its a great family destination, or a romantic escape for two. If I had my choice, I would be staying at the Chateau de Versaille in France. Part of the Waldorf=Astoria Collection, this hotel offers unique historic value and is celebrating its 100th anniversary this summer with some incredible deals:

The iconic Trianon Palace Versailles hotel, a part of The Waldorf Astoria Collection, is celebrating its 100th anniversary this summer. To celebrate, the Chateau de Versailles hotel will unveil a host of special offers and packages that include:

Flash sales

A special flash promotion sale will be offered each month of the celebration. These promotions will be available on the hotel’s Specials & Packages page.

1910 menu at the Chateau de Versailles hotel

Inspired by an original menu from 1910, this carte du jour will be available for guests dining at Gordon Ramsay au Trianon, the hotel’s two-star Michelin restaurant, for euro 160.

Anniversary special packages

The Trianon Palace will offer a selection of tailor-made Versailles hotel packages available to guests through the end of the year. Guests are able to upgrade standard reservations for an additional cost of euro 100, with a choice of two amenity packed options.

A special fragrance

“Nose superstar” Francis Kurkdjian has created a perfume especially for the Trianon Palace Versailles hotel’s 100th anniversary. The fragrance will be available to purchase at the hotel.

“100 seconds of emotions for your tastebuds”

Guests will find a delicious home-made sweet in their rooms upon arrival.

Updates and reminders of all special promotions and events will be available online at www.trianonpalace.com

About Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts

WALDORF ASTORIA is Hilton Worldwide’s luxury brand of landmark hotels, with each one as singular and timeless as the brand’s namesake, The Waldorf=Astoria Hotel in New York. From classic elegance to modern grandeur, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts each represent worldly sophistication and unparalleled guest service. From sumptuous spas and culinary excellence to world-class golf, each hotel & resort offers the exquisite accommodations and signature accoutrements that define refinement and sophistication. Discover Waldorf Astoria by visiting www.waldorfastoria.com.

Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort in Arenal Costa Rica

Hayley — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 14:22:10 +0000

I have been dying to get to Costa Rica, and I do love staying at Leading Hotels of the World properties, so the Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort in Arenal might be my next South American destination.

Sustainable Travel International (STI) has just announced that Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort in Arenal, Costa Rica, has achieved its Luxury Eco Certification Standard (LECS), becoming the first hotel in that country to pass the intensive on-site inspection and receive this distinction. Designed to educate, as well as help luxury hotels create and implement a sustainability management framework, LECS is the first and only voluntary, global certification program of its kind. Focusing on Triple Bottom Line (People, Planet and Profit), the comprehensive standard aligns with impending global accreditation through the Tourism Stewardship Council.

With sustainable tourism on the rise, Leading Hotels spearheaded a new partnership between STI, the global non-profit leader in sustainable travel solutions, and Leading Quality Assurance (LQA), a joint venture of Leading Hotels that specializes in quality assurance, benchmarking and training to the luxury hospitality industry. Together, they created an innovative program, which carries out evaluations in five areas: policy and documentation; energy conservation; water conservation; recycling; and community. The fusion of these five components will reduce long-term operating costs, and create customer and employee good will.

In order to become LECS certified, hotels must undergo a preliminary desk audit, complimented by an on-site, third-party assessment handled by LQA. The process of becoming LECS eco-certified is challenging and requires a serious commitment on behalf of the hotel applicant, and Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort exemplifies this commitment on many levels. Perhaps principal among them is the fact that two underground reservoirs provide all of the hotel’s water – both hot and cold – eliminating the need to use any other energy sources for heating or cooling it. The hotel also has in place significant practices for conserving water and electricity, and recycling a variety of materials.

In addition to engaging vigorously in staff training, the hotel offers guests opportunities to support its sustainability initiatives through tree-planting projects, contributions to the local community development fund, and making local products and handcrafts available for sale in its shops.

Several other members of The Leading Hotels of the World are slated to complete the inspection process by late summer. Hotels interested in pursuing LECS certification, can visit www.leadingquality.com .

W Fort Lauderdale Celebrates One Year Anniversary

Hayley — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 14:33:26 +0000

At Estates West, we are huge fans of W hotels. They are so funky, fresh and youthful, and they give us Starwood Preferred points, which we love. The W Fort Lauderdale has been around for one year now, and has helped transform the town from a spring break haven to a sophisticated vacation destination. Here is what they have been up to over the past year, as well as a good deal for your next trip (see bottom of post):

Coming off a momentous first year filled with signature music and fashion W Happenings, high occupancy and community embrace, W Fort Lauderdale celebrates its one year anniversary on the beaches of Fort Lauderdale. Guests will no longer find the Spring Break scene portrayed in the popular ‘60s film “Where The Boys Are;” rather, the waterfront boulevard where W resides comes lined with upscale eateries and chic boutiques, lead by the offerings onsite. Catering to visiting sophisticates as well as a booming local community with their Whenever/Whatever® service philosophy, W is proud to call Fort Lauderdale home to their first Florida flagship boasting 517 guest rooms, suites and flats.

Starting with the star-studded grand opening celebration with Cindy Crawford, Blake Lively and Penn Badley, W Fort Lauderdale further established its spot on the map with high profile events including Virgin America’s “Stay Golden” with Richard Bronson, Luke Wilson and a performance by music sensation Santigold; a Super Bowl weekend party DJ’d by Fall Out Boy’s Pete Wentz; and a live taping of “Real Housewives of Orange County.”

As an all-encompassing destination, W boasts the first Florida outpost of New York’s original Bliss® spa as well as STEAK 954, the first restaurant outside the Northeast from world-renowned restaurateur Stephen Starr of Buddakan, Morimoto and Alma de Cuba fame, and nightlife impresarios Rande and Scott Gerber’s stylish nightspot Whiskey Blue and the W’s legendary Living Room. Signature nights envisioned by Gerber Group include Salvation Sunday’s at WET Pool Lounge, Indulge Wednesday’s at Whiskey Blue and Dollhouse Ladies’ night on Thursdays.

W’s glam and original dining and entertainment options have become local staples beckoning Fort Lauderdale’s hip young professionals and the LGBT community. W Fort Lauderdale is also the quintessential ‘Staycation,’ destination, which has helped to drive an average 80% occupancy during this Spring’s high season in a down economy, making Florida’s first W Hotel a true success and re-branding Fort Lauderdale as the equally glamorous counterpart to South Beach sans the attitude.

Envisioned by Clodagh Design, the flawlessly executed property has earned accolades as one of South Florida’s premier wedding and event spaces. With capabilities to host both small and large events, W Fort Lauderdale is the quintessential backdrop, equipped with signature event spaces including the Great Room, terrace, courtyard garden and Extreme Wow Suite.

In celebration of the one year anniversary, W Hotels invites guests to relive the WOW at W Fort Lauderdale with their summer escape room package that includes daily breakfast for two at STEAK 954, two Signature Sips in Whiskey Blue or Living Room, 20% off any service at bliss spa, complimentary overnight parking and a Wonderful Room starting from $299.

Book now for stays May 15th through October 16, 2010. Explore www.wfortlauderdalehotel.com/offers or call 877.822.000. Mention rate code RTWOW. Advance booking required for bliss spa appointments. For preferred appointment times two weeks advance booking is recommended. To book your appointment call 1.877 TO BLISS and mention “W Anniversary Package.”

Summer Camps for Kids at Terranea Resort in Palos Verdes

Hayley — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 14:17:04 +0000

Terranea’s summer activity line-up includes week-long camps that offer fun alternatives to traditional summer camp. Many of the camps were inspired by the property’s unique history as a favorite Hollywood film site, as well as the resort’s close proximity to LA’s film and fashion scene.

Golf Camp (ages 7-15)
The week-long Junior Golf Camp is designed to teach beginning and intermediate level golfers the fundamentals of golf. The Links’ PGA professional staff, Buddy Nichols, Evan Sales and Mike Hill, teach the essentials of putting, chipping, pitching, the full swing and playing the course. Students are also introduced to etiquette, rules of the game and athletic development.
Cost: $459 per student (lunch included); $199 for Junior Golf Summer Pass Holders.
Sessions: June 21-25; July 12-16; August 9-13
Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Adventure Camp (ages 7-15)
Young explorers enjoy a week of games, crafts, activities and adventures. Campers learn about Terranea and its history and ecology. They just might get a little wet, too! Activities are tailored based on age and interests, and teens have special access to the Teen Lounge.
Cost: $249 per child, half-day (lunch included); $399 per child, full-day (lunch included)
Sessions: June 21-25; July 12-16; August 9-13
Times: Half Day- 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Full Day: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Putt and Plunge Camp (ages 7-15)
For those who just can’t decide, there’s always the option to sharpen golf skills in the morning, adventure in the afternoon…and sleep well at night!
Cost: $579 per student, $199 for Junior Golf Summer Pass Holders
Sessions: June 21-25; July 12-16; August 9-13
Time: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Movie Camps (ages 7-15)
Terranea Resort continues to honor its legacy as a favorite Hollywood film location with a fun-filled summer lineup of movie themed camps. The 2010 summer camps include video game creation, special effects and Lego-motion.
Cost: $495 per child
Sessions: June 14-18; June 21-25
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Fashion Camp (ages 8-16)
Award-nominated Hollywood costume designer introduces budding designers to the world of fashion. Campers research current fashion trends and style icons, design their own looks, shop for fabrics and clothing, and present their finished “line” in a fashion show. Each girl will leave the camp with an outfit they have styled or piece of clothing that they have constructed, along with either a DVD of the Fashion Show (8-12 year olds) or still photos from a photo shoot of their designs (13-16 year olds).
Cost: $600 per child (8-12 years) and $750 per child (13-16 years)
Sessions: June 14-18; June 21-25
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Summer of 20-10 Special
Terranea is offering families a 20-10 savings on their summer vacations. With the 20-10 package, guests receive 20% off their room rate and 10% off dining, spa or golf. Rates start at $252 per night and reservations can be made at www.terranea.com.

JW Marriott’s Hashani Spa Named as one of America’s Best Spas

Hayley — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 13:20:24 +0000

JW Marriott® Starr Pass Resort & Spa continues to make its mark as one of the leading resort properties in the world. In the April edition of Condé Nast Traveler, Starr Pass’ Hashani Spa was named one of America’s best resort spas, ranking 34 out of 99. Hashani Spa was listed as the top resort spa in Tucson beating out Canyon Ranch and Miraval. The article highlights American-style spas, which combine a variety of cultural spa treatments with diet, fitness and pampering.

The ranking is a tremendous feat for a spa that opened its doors just five years ago. Hashani Spa joins the ranks of world famous spas in such cities as Napa Valley, CA, Telluride, CO and Grande Lakes, FL. Hashani Spa was inspired by the healing properties of the Sonoran Desert and named for the saguaro cactus (hashani is a Native American word for saguaro). The spa combines ancient healing techniques of the Sonoran Desert with the latest beauty and health technologies. The 20,000 square foot facility includes a fitness center, whirlpool, steam room and sauna, private couples’ treatment rooms and a movement studio that features a large outdoor terrace. Outdoors, guests can enjoy the spa’s private pool and al fresco dining at Hashani Spa’s cafe, Blossom.

“We are proud to have been named to this prominent list in Condé Nast Traveler,” says Matt Brody, Starr Pass’ Director of Sales & Marketing. “Publications such as this are a benchmark in our industry and share the very best of what’s available to travelers. Readers of Condé Nast Traveler have experienced some of the finest establishments in the world, and for them to acknowledge Hashani Spa in this respect truly validates our dedication to providing a one-of-a-kind experience and world-class service.”

Hashani encourages greater mental awareness and emphasizes the powerful connection between the body, mind, spirit and, of course, the surrounding environment. Hashani’s doors open to the base of an extensive network of walking trails spa-goers can explore to absorb the natural healing properties of the desert.

For more information on treatments and programs, please call the Hashani Spa at (520) 791-6117 or visit the website at www.hashanispa.com.

Amazing 72-Hour Sale at The Broadmoor in Colorado

Hayley — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 12:33:00 +0000

The Broadmoor Hotel is having an incredible 72-hour sales that is well worth checking out if you plan on staying at the resort this year. Located in Colorad Springs, this is one of my favorite classic resorts. I have stayed there myself and felt like a queen, since everything form the linens to the dining room decor is elaborate and classic. It’s the perfect romantic weekend away so check out the sale and see what type of deals you can score.

From 12:01AM Friday, April 16 to Midnight Sunday, April 18, book a luxury stay in 2010 at the Five Star, Five Diamond BROADMOOR in Colorado Springs, Colorado, for half the price.

Make a reservation for a vacation in 2010 and receive 50% off all room, suite and BROADMOOR Cottages rates. Choose Kids Eat Free* where children 10 and under eat free from the youth menu at Tavern, Charles Court, Summit, Penrose Room, Golf Club and Lake Terrace, or choose a Complimentary Day Pass to The Spa at The BROADMOOR** that includes the aromatherapy room, dry saunas, steam rooms, the Mountain View room, men’s and ladies’ fireplace lounges, as well as standard showers and locker facilities.

This 72 hour sale is one-time-only in 2010 offering the lowest rates available. It will not be available at any other time this year.

Reserve by calling 800.634.7711 on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, or book on line at broadmoor.com by clicking on “Packages and Specials.”

*Excludes Sunday Brunch.
**Spa day pass is for one time use during stay per person (must be 16 yrs or older).

ABOUT The BROADMOOR:

The Broadmoor, located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is the longest consecutive winner of the AAA Five-Diamond and Forbes/Mobil Travel Guide Five Star awards for excellence. Opened in 1918, The Broadmoor is situated on 3,000 acres with 744 hotel rooms and suites surrounding Cheyenne Lake, three championship golf courses, a Forbes/Mobil Travel Guide Five Star Spa and Fitness Center, plus 18 restaurants, lounges and bars including Colorado’s only Five Star, Five Diamond restaurant, Penrose Room.

Miraval Arizona Launches a New Loyalty Program

Hayley — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 13:55:48 +0000

Miraval Arizona, the top-rated destination spa resort located in Tucson, today announced the launch of a new loyalty program called Authentic Circle. The three levels of Authentic Circle are Step, Run, and Fly which is based on the idea that you will want to Step into the ‘world of wonderful you’ before you Run, let alone before you Fly.

Authentic Circle is a robust rewards program offering three levels of membership for loyal guests and owners of Miraval residences, based on frequency of stays and overall commitment to Miraval. Exclusive benefits include room upgrades, priority access to activities, invitation to Authentic Circle events and resort credits. Members will also have access to a dedicated team of Authentic Circle Advisors providing exceptional personalized service. Additional privileges include discounts on spa services, boutique purchases and private consultations with Miraval Specialists as well as a complimentary subscription to Miraval’s new e-magazine featuring a priority preview of exclusive offers, tips and news.

“Our Authentic Circle program embodies our drive to make our guest experience the most positive and memorable it can be each and every day,” said Philippe Bourguignon, CEO of Miraval. “We are privileged to give back to our most loyal guests and expect Authentic Circle to meet, and exceed, their expectations.”

The Authentic Circle program is just one of the recent investments that have been made to further enhance the Miraval guest experience. The resort recently launched a new brand identity campaign including a new website, ad campaign and collateral. New programs were also introduced in early 2010 including a new Desert Sky Zipline, Dragon Yoga, Partner Yoga, adventure excursions as well as Art and Music at Miraval.

For more details about the Authentic Circle membership, please visit www.miravalresorts.com/authenticcircle.

Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort

Hayley — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 15:54:54 +0000

Last week I had the pleasure of taking a quick and luxurious four-day vacation down to Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico, which is a resort area just about 15 minutes from the Puerto Vallarta airport. The area is full of gorgeous hotels and resorts, but I believe where I stayed, the Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort in Nuevo Vallarta, topped them all. This stunning 267-room all-inclusive resort is rated Five Diamonds by AAA and for good reason – the service and the amenities are some of the best I have ever had. Pure luxury and relaxation is guaranteed at Grand Velas.

From the moment you arrive, you know you are in good hands. Fresh hibiscus juice was brought to me, as were my check-in papers, so I could check in while sitting in the lovely open-aired lobby. No trip to the check-in desk required. My bags were wisked away to my room and the friendliest bell boy ever escorted us up to our suite, talking to us the whole time about all of the great amenities we would enjoy here. Once inside the room, I was instantly surprise with the size of it. Two queen beds, and a large sitting area; a massive bathroom with double sinks, enormous Jacuzzi tub and separate shower and toilet quarters; and then a large outdoor patio with a luxurious day bed, overlooking the ocean. The room was much larger than many of my friends’ apartments.

The amenities in-room are also as impressive as its size. There is a pillow menu – yes, that’s right, a menu to order your pillow. There are eight different pillows to choose from, of different material and stiffness, so that you can get the best night sleep possible wile at Grand Velas. There is an iPod dock, a nice flat screen TV, a stocked mini-bar that is refreshed daily, and of course loads of lovely bathroom amenities, from bath salts to tooth brush and tooth paste.

The first thing I did was look out from the patio over the blue ocean and sparkling resort pools below. The second thing I did was look at the room service menu. At Grand Velas the all-inclusive price really does include everything, even unlimited room service delivery from a rather large menu of delicious food. They even have bottle service! Order a big bottle of tequila or maybe a sparkling wine to your room, and the friendly staff will bring it right up.

The food at Grand Velas was unlike any all-inclusive food I have had in my previous experience. Tune in tomorrow, when I will discuss the various restaurants at Grand Velas, as well as the other luxury offerings at this Mexican paradise.

http://vallarta.grandvelas.com/