Caribbean: St. Lucia, Coconut Bay Resort and Spa

Experience the authentic (yet-to-be-discovered) Atlantic side of St. Lucia. Nestled amid swaying palms along Savannes Bay on the island’s undiscovered south coast, with friendly people, beautiful vistas and Caribbean “quiet” days, The Bay is offers families an all-inclusive beachfront vacation option. Walk along the soft-sand beach, wiggle your toes in the water, watch local fishermen, count sea gulls, snorkel in the bay, sip tropical drinks and gaze at the surf as the sun sets. This is the good stuff.

Our visit was short but rewarding. The Bay is an enchanting spot from which to discover the island or simply chill out and recharge. General Manager, Newton Grey explained to us that Coconut Bay Resort and Spa is a place which welcomes families. It is not however only for families but instead a resort for those wishing to experience refreshing island hospitality and enjoy the best of St. Lucia. Maintaining a standard of excellence, he and his staff continually look for ways to make he vacation experience better for their guests. From weddings and vow renewals to reunions and family celebrations, they enjoy the opportunity to make once-in-a-lifetime memories happen.

Resort: Step off the plane at St. Lucia’s Hewanorra International Airport, and you’re about five minutes from one of the best-kept secrets in the Eastern Caribbean. Coconut Bay Resort and Spa is nestled along St. Lucia's pristine Atlantic shores. Spanning 85 lush acres fringed with coconut palms, The Bay is a secret getaway spot offering guests of all ages an easy all-inclusive vacation. The lobby area is an open space with huge over-stuffed colorful seating and tables with chess, backgammon, checker-game designs painted on them. Not just for families, the resort provides services to meet the needs of families with young kids while not diminishing the service to adults. From the first welcome drink to the last bite of pineapple, it’s all good. Need to know: The resort offers complete wedding services.

Amenities: The 254-room property offers Caribbean-cool views from every room, some of the pristine ocean and others of the tropical island. And along with either a king-size bed or two queen-size beds that sleep up to four, you’ll have a comfortable, separate sitting area. Amenities include air conditioning, ceiling fans, satellite TV, direct dial telephone, in-room safe, iron, ironing board and bathroom with shower and hairdryer. Bonus points: Need more family space? Connecting rooms are available by request. Need to know: Wireless internet connection is also available in certain locations on property. Voltage in rooms and throughout the property is 220 volts and electrical outlets accept only the British standard flat 3-pin plug. Guests are advised to bring a converter and an adaptor with them, as they are not provided by the hotel. The front desk staff will charge cameras for guests.

All-included: In addition to comfortable sleeping arrangements, guests receive a welcome drink on arrival and a weekly cocktail party hosted by resort managers and staff. Full breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks each day at a choice of three restaurants or the beach grill. Unlimited juices, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages at a choice of three bars, plus the swim up pool bar. Within site of the scrumptious adult buffet tables there is a smaller children’s food buffet serving a variety of kid-friendly comfort foods including pizza, spaghetti and pancakes as well as tempting fried plantains, luscious pineapple, tamarinds, coconut juice and Caribbean treats. The two specialty restaurants each have a children’s menu which changes during the week. Bonus Points: Clever drinks abound, young kids can sip a “Bob-the-Builder” (banana/milk/milo) drink or sample a “The Harry Potter” (Sprite/grenadine/tomato juice). This is the good stuff.

Activities: On site you’ll find three pools and a water park - the largest one on the island of St. Lucia. The water park features two tropical waterslides and a lazy river which carries guests effortlessly along winding turns and under cascading waterfalls. Directly in front of the main lobby area is a pool set up for volleyball and a daily entertainment program provides a variety of land and pool activities. Throughout the week guests enjoy evening entertainment and theme nights featuring the uniqueness of the island and its culture. The Towel Hut by the pool provides beach towels, board games (on loan) and also water-sport items for day trips. Also in this area are two pool tables, ping pong, Foosball and an arcade with two video game stations. On site is a fitness center offering the latest in exercise equipment for individual workouts as well as aerobics classes. The tennis center features four courts. Bonus points: There is an outdoor whirlpool as well as an adults-only pool.

There’s a spa: Located on the property, at the edge of the sea is the Kai Mer (French Creole for house by the sea). The tranquil facility provides guests with ocean view treatment rooms with private outdoor showers, relaxation lounge, 12-head Swiss hydro shower, two steam rooms and two sauna rooms. The spa offers an extensive selection of treatments, facials, massages and pedicures. Best news for families, teens are allowed. Signature spa services include ocean front massages, Coconilla – a combination treatment, and a “choose your own aloe” experience.

New in 2006, CocoLand. Created for the Resort’s younger guests CocoLand combines fun with education. The action starts as soon as the kids arrive at the resort when they receive their CocoPacks. These include a tote bag, water bottle with strap for the jungle tours, T-shirt, bucket or baseball hat and scrapbook to record adventures from CocoLand. Because the youngsters are pre-registered, the planning and organizing is already done, allowing the kids to get right to the fun. There are two age groupings, with curriculums designed to cater to the different interests of each. Children ages three through eleven are part of the CocoLand Kidz Klub, while ages nine through fourteen make up the Adventure Club. The kids that qualify for both groups have their choice of which group they want to experience.
While at the Kidz Klub, youngsters take informative nature hikes on Coconut Bay's eighty-five palm-fringed acres and learn about the Caribbean's geography and St. Lucia's ecology. They also participate in supervised arts and crafts, enjoy the Caribbean's largest all-ages water park and play at the Kidz Klub water playground. All kids will discover St. Lucia's history dating back to tales of pirates, local traditions and up to current day customs. Exploring lush foliage and indigenous animals from the iguana to the orange winged parrot will be part of the fun and enlightening curriculum.
The Adventure Club for the older kids combines a variety of physical and educational challenges that require teamwork and problem-solving skills. The water park has two huge water slides and a lazy river. The "Coconut Canon" is the fastest water slide in the Caribbean with kids reaching blazing speeds until they're shot out of the slide like a rocket. The "Survivor-like" Adventure Club for the older kids combines a variety of physical and educational challenges. Though no kids will be voted off the island, the tasks will be exciting and stimulating. Need to know: Each staff member at the center is CPR certified.

The Beaches Destination Resort & Spa

Thailand's first integrated resort in Bang Saray Bay, Thaila

With the support of the Board of Investment of Thailand and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, The Beaches will be the new shining symbol of the country and will be the benchmark of destination resorts in Asia. It has also joined with True Corporation, one of Thailand’s largest technology companies, to create Thailand’s first wireless lifestyle convergent communities which will feature state-of-the-art technology throughout the entire project. The masterplan architect and designers behind the success of The Beaches Resort & Residences are award winning world class design firms – Carl Ettensperger of C&C Studio and Terry Henriksen of Henriksen Design Ltd, who have worked on 5-star hotel projects such as Mandarin Oriental, Hyatt Hotels, Ritz Carlton, Siam Paragon Bangkok, Huvafen Fushi Maldives (2008 Worlds Best Beach Resort, Harpers Bazaar Travel), Hard Rock Hotel – Universal Studios, Florida, and many more prestigious resorts. Set over 88 rai of landscaped gardens, man-made beaches, and water lagoons, The Beaches private community will have four grand 5-star hotels, stunning water villas and Private Residences. The Beaches Resort has the best of everything – International Waterpark and Surf Park, The Beaches Longevity & Wellness Spa, state-of-the-art fitness club, a Grande Promenade with an international village with over 20 restaurants and retail, tennis academy and a Watersport centre. It is also centrally located in the heart of Thailand in Bang Saray Bay, a tropical oasis – 10 minutes from Pattaya and only 90 minutes from Bangkok Chairman and CEO of Pacific Shore Developments, Liakat Sultan Dhanji, has been responsible for making the brand a success. According to him, Thailand needs something distinctive if it is going to stand out against the stiff competition developing in the region. V9 Design & Build, were invited to build the resort’s website and, from initial discussions with Mr Dhanji, ideas were centred on creating an architecture that would concentrate on eMarketing by employing Web 2.0 technologies. Living in Bangkok, you see glitzy front-page supplements that dominate Thailand’s English dailies, full-page magazine and newspaper colour ads that abound large project launches, and the billboards that predominate the city and Skytrain. You can only imagine the cost of such publicity and its significant impact on a project’s bottom line. That is not to say that elegantly-produced brochures and local media advertising doesn’t have merit, but it has always seemed that it is a sort of marketing overkill — a gunshot rather than rifle approach to project exposure. Professional blogging: it increases company revenue over time through the marketing and relationship building power. The ability to write effective, interesting, and informative blog posts has proved itself be a highly cost effective option. It is even more effective when added as a seamless addition to a resort’s website for several reasons. First, Google and the other major search engines like content and change which adds value to a site’s PageRank™; it extends keyword range; it is disseminated to the world’s largest blog directories; and it is accompanied by RSS. Article writing and press releases can be submitted to the world’s largest websites, especially two that are associated with Google and Yahoo. Over the last few years, search engines have made it increasingly difficult to reach a targeted audience. Gone are the days of mailers, link exchanges and non-industry-related links. Even with ezines, there’s no guarantee you will be read. A great alternative to this is RSS (Really Simple Syndication). It is not a well-known method for companies to publish and distribute content in this format (e.g. publicity releases, news, newsletters and articles). Syndication means you don’t have to visit each site individually to see what’s new — you simply scan headline summaries in a reader and click to read the full text. Most real estate projects use Flash technology that presents brilliantly-animated images but fail with their eMarketing efforts because of it. Search engines cannot see beyond the front page. There are two large property developers in Thailand, both of which have projects that have only their home pages listed. Both are poor examples of internet marketing and are therefore spending fortunes on print advertising. In contrast, The Beaches will bypass outdated marketing methods by creating a wealth of exposure, both in Thailand and internationally. The Beaches, to our knowledge, will be the first large-scale real estate development project in Asia to employ Web 2.0 as its online publicity vehicle. Chris Heath is the sole proprietor of Soho Properties a Bangkok based real estate agency specializing in the Thailand area.

Day Spas The Perfect Pampering Experience

Around the world, day spas are attracting the attention of weary travelers, the overworked and anyone else in need of pampering. These getaway hot spots are usually nestled among mountainous, remote areas that are surrounded with rural serenity. Day spas often combine the luxurious spa experience with a full-service hotel and resort.

Spring-fed mineral baths, natural hot springs, a soothing Jacuzzi experience and mud baths are just a few of the amenities awaiting your arrival at day spas. For those who aren't familiar with hot springs, these natural occurrences are often thought to have magical healing powers in their ability to sooth and comfort achy muscles, joints and provide an overall feeling of wellness.

For the day spa guest who wants to receive the full spa experience, a beauty and facial salon are available in most facilities. From manicures to pedicures and a complete line of skin treatments, both men and women can take advantage of these spectacular luxuries. Day spas aren't just for adults, however, as there is always plenty for the children to enjoy. Among the activities include arcades, snacks and other fun activities that every youngster will like.

If you are thinking of paying a visit to a day spa, it's a good idea to call ahead and make a reservation. If possible, call early so that there will still be space on the day that you choose to make the trip. Before visiting, it's a good idea to become familiar with the spa's hours of operation, availability of overnight accommodations, walk-in and cancellation policies, etc. All of this information can be obtained through a quick telephone call to the spa's office or a visit to their website, if available.

As one may expect, the day spa experience comes with a price tag. The actual cost, however, will vary from one location to another and will largely depend on the amenities that you select. Price lists are often available verbally or online and payments are typically required in advance before your treatment(s) begin.

The majority of individuals choose to visit a day spa because they are looking for an escape from their otherwise hectic life, some time away from the job or just a vacation that includes some well-deserved pampering. No matter the exact reason, day spas are the perfect way to pamper your problems away. These luxurious treatments are continuing to gain in popularity, as is evident with the many resorts that have been built around their focus. In many areas, these resorts are a leading source of revenue for the community and the businesses around it.

The Beach Club Resort Hamilton Island Great Barrier Reef

Last Minute Weekend Getaway to The Beach Club Resort Hamilton Island

The Beach Club Hamilton Island is ideal for a last minute weekend getaway from almost anywhere on the Eastern Coast of Australia, and it is only three hours door to door from Melbourne. What this means that it is possible to make a last minute decision about your weekend getaway and how much more romantic is that!!
It is an exclusive boutique style luxury hotel right on the beach front, and excludes children under the age of eighteen.

The Beach Club has about 50 rooms, is set in immaculate landscaped gardens,with its own private beach, and an infinity pool. The beach is stunning, and the sea beautifully calm and warm and very blue.
The gorgeous rooms have very large private balconies, or courtyards and face directly onto Catseye beach. The room’s have dark parquet floors and a sofa and Böse sound system.
A good description of The Beach Club is that it is sophisticated yet totally unpretentious, with quite superb yet very understated and discreet service from all the extremely effective staff.
The staff are always available to pander to your every whim. It could be a small item of room service, a restaurant booking, game fishing. You want it they will organise it without fuss.

Hamilton Island is a holidaymaker’s dream, with one huge advantage over most other islands in that it has its own airport which makes it ideal for the last minute romantic weekend getaway, as you fly right in there.

One of the top things about the Beach Club is you get exclusive transportation to and from Hamilton Island’s marina.
In addition you don’t need to carry any money on Hamilton Island, you can book everything to your room, but be prepared to find that things on the island are expensive compared to home.
What a great thing for a Last Minute Weekend Getaway, when you don’t have time to think about money.
You also have all the advantages of staying on Hamilton Island, all the activities and natural beauty, and you can go anywhere, and do anything, and then return to your luxury boutique hotel.
The whole island and all its facilities are available to everyone, vut The Beach Club is completely exclusive to its guests. This means that they can’t even sunbathe on the Club’s private beach.

There are some great excursions from The Beach Club, such as a Sea plane over the Great Barrier Reef, and a stop off at Whitehaven beach, a Helicopter trip and snorkelling, BBQ safari.
The Beach Club is the only place to stay on Hamilton Island, whether it is a last minute weekend getaway or a romantic escape, this boutique luxury hotel is a must do.

Angsana Resort & Spa Great Barrier Reef One Of The Small Luxury Resorts Of The World

Why not travel to the Barrier Reef for your Australia Luxury Vacation, and stay at the Angsana Resort & Spa, one of Australia’s great luxury resorts, and one of the small luxury hotels of the world. It is the only resort in the region situated on the beachfront, and it nestles in the beautiful village of Palm Cove.

It is the resort for visiting the Great Barrier Reef and the world’s oldest tropical rainforest which is close by.

The Angsana Resort & Spa has a lovely sandy tropical beach, three swimming pools, and a luxurious spa, you don’t have to go anywhere other than this luxury resort, but there is a lot to do if you so wish. There are excursions to the Great Barrier Reef, trekking in the tropical rainforest, wildlife watching, and not for the faint hearted bungee jumping!!

If you are a nature lover, then the Angsana Resort & Spa is perfect for you. On the other hand if you are a water sport enthusiast, or a spa freak then you are also in the right place.

As the resort fronts the Coral Sea it is perfect for snorkelling, windsurfing, scuba diving and windsurfing.

The Angsana Spa has a wonderfully calm setting, and here you will find aromatic baths, massages, facials, and body therapies on offer.

As befits one of the Small Luxury resorts of the World the accommodation is understated but luxurious, there being only 67 suites, with ceiling to floor glass doors that overlook outdoor patios and tropical gardens, allowing the breeze in.

They are all air conditioned and decorated with Thai silk drapes, with ceiling fans as well. Each suite comes fully equipped with television, private mini-bar, personal safe, hairdryer, bath robes, slippers, coffee and tea making facilities and a kitchenette that comes with a refrigerator, microwave and table settings.

If your bank balance runs to it, then book the Angsana Suite, which is just furnished extravagantly, and superbly well equipped, this suite has its own swimming pool, sun terrace, and even a BBQ.

The Far Horizons restaurant is a good restaurant serving Asian inspired food based mainly on seafood and other local ingredients. You can sit inside or on the beachfront, and you can add to this the Poolside Gourmet BBQ for lunchtime eating.

The Angsana Resort & Spa Great Barrier Reef does credit to the Small Luxury Hotels of the World Group, and if you are in that part of the world then you can safely include it in your Australia Luxury Vacation Itinerary.

Coeur d’Alene Golf & Spa Resort Stay & Play September Deal: A Dozen Free Ttitlelist Pro V1 Balls

Golfers have a dozen more reasons to take advantage of the fabulous fall weather at The Coeur d’Alene Golf & Spa Resort: The September Stay & Play golf package includes a complimentary box of Titleist Pro V1 golf balls.

Named this year by the readers of the distinguished Condé Nast Traveler magazine as one of the top 50 golf resorts in the world, The Coeur d'Alene Golf & Spa Resort in Idaho is combining 18 holes on the award-winning Resort Course and luxury accommodations at The Resort’s newly remodeled rooms with a dozen golf balls just like the pros play.

Guests enjoy a top-of-the-line experience that comes with a day at The Resort Course: a ride in the mahogany boat shuttles that traverse the lake from The Resort to the golf course; unlimited use of the lakefront practice range; a custom golf cart (equipped with cool-air system and heated seats); and a personal group forecaddie.

The Coeur d’Alene Golf & Spa Resort is one of only 25 Gold Medal Resort award winners named by GOLF MAGAZINE. Designed by Scott Miller and opened in 1991, The Resort Course rolls gently though a peaceful setting of towering pines along a shimmering lakeshore. Golfers can pace each fairway with a personal forecaddie — except at the famed par-3 14th hole, which features the world-famous "floating green."

The premier luxury destination in the Northwest, The Coeur d’Alene Resort is renowned for its accommodations and world-class golf. A member of the family of Preferred Hotels, The Resort is 31 miles east of Spokane, Wash., and 100 miles south of the Canadian border. For reservations and more details on the September Stay & Play Package, visit: http://www.cdaresort.com/ or call (800) 688-5253.

Wilson Island on The Great Barrier Reef

Wilson Island on The Great Barrier Reef is the Perfect Honeymoon Vacation Resort

If your perfect honeymoon resort has to be on a tiny coral cay, and it has to be an Australia Honeymoon Package on the Great Barrier Reef, then Wilson Island should tick all the right boxes. It is surrounded by a pristine coral reef and quite the loveliest of beaches.

If you have spent any time in Africa on safari and stayed in a tented camp, then the accommodation on Wilson Island will not be unfamiliar to you, except this is real five star luxury camping, all inclusive, with food that is just out of this world, and a fantastic wine cellar.
When people think of camping, have never been on a camping safari or stayed at Wilson Island they have this idea of sleeping bags and poles, and leaks and cold water showers.

Wilson Island is the perfect Honeymoon Vacation resort, because when they talk tents what they mean is six permanent tents all looking out over the reef and the ocean designed with the guests ultimate comfort in mind.

All of the tents have raised timber floors, King size beds with Duvets, Bedside Tables, Battery operated bedside lights, deck chairs, bathrobes, bath towels, beach towels, toiletries, and daily housekeeping service.

The only drawback is that because of the fact that Wilson Island uses solar power, all the hot showers are in the central amenities building, where each tent has its own private designated area.

So what will you do on Wilson Island as your perfect honeymoon resort.
The short answer is little or nothing, but you could cheerfully snorkel right off the beach where you will see some fantastic fish, and perhaps even a turtle as well.
You could just lie in a hammock and be lazy, or you can walk round the island, picnic on the beach, and end up watching the sunset drinking champagne, or the sunrise with a hot cup of coffee and biscuits.
Wilson is that kind of place, probably idyllic for three or four days with no mobile phone coverage, no children, no television, just the birds, and the crashing of the sea to listen to.

If you are able to entertain yourself, and you don’t mind the unorthodox toilet arrangements, or a communal dinner party atmosphere in the evenings, then Wilson Island could be the perfect honeymoon resort.