Winter Vacations That Heat up Romance
The traditional romantic winter getaway: a roaring fire, lace curtains, chintz and plenty of candles. A great alternative: an active winter vacation that makes your romance sizzle.
Being active outside together – especially in winter – is such a complete change of routine that it can refresh even the most tired relationship. Even better, experts have found a direct link between exercise and sex. That makes sense: After a day spent skiing, hiking or snowmobiling, what could be more tantalizing than returning to your room and slipping into a secluded hot tub with your lover before a pre-dinner “nap”?
Interested in heating up your relationship this winter? Dump the lace, chintz and candles for one of these active getaways.
Vista Verde Ranch, Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Resort ranch Vista Verde offers nearly endless activity choices in breathtaking surroundings, along with plenty of privacy and a healthy dollop of luxury.
As few as 10 guests at a time enjoy cross-country skiing, horseback riding, sledding (including a chauffeured snowmobile back up the hill), snowshoeing, photography and naturalist tours, dog sledding, downhill skiing, and much more.
When it’s time to relax, couples retreat to deluxe private cabins, where antiques, handmade log furniture, a wood-burning stove, wine, soft drinks and snacks await. A steaming private outdoor hot tub is ready to soothe sore muscles.
Evenings start with candlelit dinners accompanied by fine wines. Couples looking for more seclusion can even have dinner delivered to their cabins. Later, nighttime ski and snowshoe tours take place under an impossibly star-filled sky.
Elkhorn Ranch, Tucson, Arizona Looking to leave winter behind? Consider Elkhorn Ranch in Tucson. Its extensive riding program takes advantage of 10,000 acres of remote canyon and mountain countryside and caters to all levels of expertise.
When you and your honey want a break, the Ranch also offers walking, hiking, tennis and a heated swimming pool – not to mention shuffleboard, ping pong and horseshoes.
Cabins are scattered throughout the ranch grounds, so there’s plenty of privacy. Each cabin comes with its own birdfeeder and seed, giving you a front row view of Arizona’s real snowbirds.
Whiteface Ski Resort, Lake Placid, New York Couples who want to ski on the East Coast might have a hard time beating Whiteface Mountain and Lake Placid. Site of the 1932 and the 1980 Olympics, Whiteface Mountain has the highest vertical drop of any ski resort east of the Rockies. Skiers and snowboarders should find plenty to keep them happily occupied.
The town of Lake Placid also has a great reputation for restaurants, bistros, bars and bookshops – and even more fun activities. A ski jump near downtown has been transformed into a toboggan run, and there are bobsled and luge runs to try, as well as miles of cross-country ski trails, the outdoor Olympic speed-skating oval and dog sledding rides on the lake.
Lodging options run from frugal to fancy and include cottages, log cabins, condos and houses.
The Cabins at Lopstick, Pittsburg, New HampshireSnow and speed can be a thrilling combination, especially when you’re riding a snowmobile. The Cabins at Lopstick are located right on the snowmobile trails for which Pittsburg is known. The resort will outfit you and your sweetie with snow coaches and all the outdoor clothing you need to stay toasty while zooming down 200 miles of groomed trails.
The Cabins offers a choice of 37 cozy housekeeping cabins to fit any budget. Some include whirlpool tubs and fireplaces. All have fully equipped kitchens, satellite TV and private porches with stunning views.
Opportunities for active romantic vacations abound, from luxury dude ranches to biking in Hawaii, dog sledding in Alaska, ice-climbing in the Canadian Rockies and much more. If you can’t take the time to go far away this winter, try looking closer to home. A real vacation might be an ideal – but an afternoon spent together at a nearby hiking trail, cross-country ski area or skating rink can also add winter sizzle to your relationship.
Photos courtesy Vista Verde RanchLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:26 PM
Hard Rock Hotels Celebrate 40th Anniversary of Woodstock
Hard Rock Hotels will be celebrating the 40th anniversary of Woodstock, often considered one of the greatest events in music history, with special commemorations at its hotels. Some highlights include:
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego is serving free Pot Brownies to all guests checking in August 14-16, 2009. The hotel’s signature restaurant Maryjane’s Coffee Shop has been serving the chocolate desserts since opening and in an irreverent nod to the infamous Woodstock counter-culture, all hotel guests will be treated to complimentary brownies, a la mode of course, during the anniversary weekend.
Since the announcement, the hotel has created quite a “buzz” as word passes through the community, with many people wondering how the luxury property can get away with serving the special treats. The truth is: The warm, baked-to-order brownies are aptly named for the charming ceramic pots in which they are baked and not for any secret ingredients.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino HollywoodHard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood will turn back the hands of time in August to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the 1969 Woodstock Festival. The hotel will offer $69 room rates on August 18 and 19, plus free Jimi Hendrix-style guitar lessons, memorabilia displays, hippie-themed events, Woodstock music festival in Seminole Paradise and a concert by original Woodstock performers, Crosby, Stills & Nash.
Hard Rock Hotel OrlandoHard Rock Hotel Orlando is making sure that all guests arriving during the month of August know that it is Woodstock's 40th anniversary. As you walk in, you'll hear sounds of Jimi Hendrix's guitar and Grateful Dead among other musicians from the Woodstock era, and those arriving for the anniversary weekend of peace and love will receive a daisy upon check-in. The property will serve beverage specials such as the Bad Acid Trip (Chambord, Midori, Malibu, Tanqueray, Absolut, Sour and Blue Curacao), Grateful Dead (Absolut,Tanqueray, Bacardi, Triple Sec, Chambord, Sour and Sprite) and Hendrix Electric Lemonade (Hendrix Electric Vodka, Blue Curacao and Sour) in addition to a menu with select food items reminiscent of the hippy generation.
photo courtesy Hard Rock Hotel San DiegoLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 2:52 PM
Gaylord Hotels Offers Free Night with Anniversary Weekend Package
Looking for a special anniversary getaway that's close to home? Here's a package that caught our eye: Gaylord Hotels has introduced a new anniversary weekend package. It offers couples a free night with the purchase of another during their anniversary month.
The package is available at all Gaylord Hotels located in the Orlando area, Washington, DC, Dallas area (
photo, right), and Nashville. Each resort complex features multiple casual and fine dining options, entertainment, world-class spas, recreational amenities, shopping and more, right on property.
Several, award-winning restaurants at each hotel feature regional delicacies that use locally grown ingredients to ensure a unique dining experience every time, and lots of choices for that special anniversary dinner. And nightlife options such as high-energy nightclubs, live music and dinner theater are available to cap off the celebration, making for an unforgettable trip.
The Anniversary Package: Package rates and offerings vary by property:
- Guests at Gaylord Palms can personalize their getaway with a customized anniversary message on the giant atrium Astro Vision screen, take advantage of preferred reservations at any of their world-class restaurants and have access to an Anniversary Concierge who can assist in creating the perfect romantic weekend. To book, call (407) 586-2000.
- After a romantic stroll through the tropical atrium at Gaylord Opryland, package participants can indulge in a romantic midday or dinner cruise on the General Jackson Showboat. Nightlife also abounds with the opportunity to visit the Grand Old Opry, free admission to the Wildhorse Saloon or a chance to dance the night away at the resort’s new, hot nightclub, Fuse. To book, call (866) 759-6779.
Gaylord National (photo, right) package participants will receive a free dessert at an on-property restaurant of their choice (excluding Pienza), unlimited access to resort spa areas, including sauna, steam room, and whirlpool, and late checkout at 3 p.m. To book, call (301) 965-2000.- Guests at Gaylord Texan will receive complimentary admission for two to the resort’s impressive Glass Cactus nightclub, offering 13,000 square-foot decks overlooking lakeside sunset views. Those wishing to add to their package can enjoy a tranquil couples’ massage in the European-style Relâche Spa or a romantic dining experience in the intimate setting of Old Hickory Steakhouse. To book, call (817) 778-2000.
All offers are subject to availability and may carry other restrictions; contact the hotels directly for additional information.
Details: The “Unforgettable Anniversary Package” applies through August 30, 2010, providing one complimentary night during a minimum two-night stay on a space available basis during the guest’s wedding anniversary month. A marriage certificate is required at check-in.
For More Information:
Photos courtesy Gaylord Hotels
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:27 PM
“Close to Home” Travel Deals Offered for 2009
Are you an American Express Platinum cardholder? If so, check out the "Close to Home" travel deals being offered for 2009 for destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean and U.S. You've got until March 31 to book to take advantage of these romantic getaways:
The Grand Del Mar, San Diego - Stay 2 nights, receive complimentary third night
- Book by March 31, with Platinum Travel Service, receive room upgrade if available upon check-in, daily breakfast for 2 and $100 resort credit
Colonial New England and Canada - Holland America- 7-day cruise of Boston, Bar Harbor, Halifax, Sydney, Charlottetown, Quebec City, Montreal
- Book by March 31, receive two-category upgrade on outside staterooms or up to $300 shipboard credit per suite, complimentary Mariner Club onboard host, cocktail party and shore excursion
- Prices from $899 per guest, including up to $570 savings
Oceanfront South Beach Flair – The Tides South Beach- Stay 3 nights, receive complimentary fourth night
- Book by December 22, with Platinum Travel Service, receive room upgrade if available, upon check-in, and complimentary lunch for 2, valid on select dates for travel through December 26
Kohala Coast, Big Island, Hawaii -Classic Vacations- 7 night Stay at the Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii
- Every 3rd night free (2 free nights) + $200 Resort Credit + up to $500 Air Credit
- Book by December 15, travel now through December 20
- Special Rates from $1419 per person, receive amenities valued up to $2000 per couple
Labels: Canada, USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 2:03 PM
Colorado's Mesa Verde Offers Romance Package
Looking for a Colorado getaway that combines romance, spectacular scenery, and amazing history? Check out the Mesa Magic Package at Mesa Verde National Park (named "The Number One Historic Monument in the World" by
Conde Nast Traveler and "One of 50 Places to Visit in a Lifetime" by
National Geographic Traveler.) The park preserves the ruins and other works and relics of ancient Pueblo peoples and is a World Cultural Heritage Site.
The Package: The Mesa Magic Package includes:
- a one-night romantic stay in the Far View Lodge
- a welcome bottle of champagne and two champagne flutes
- chocolate-dipped strawberries
- a romantic dinner for two at the award-winning Metate Room
Price: The package is priced at $259 based on double occupancy.
The Fine Print: The rate doesn't include taxes and NPS-approved energy surcharges. Full pre-payment is required at time of booking, non-refundable with less than 72-hour notie of cancellation. Unused package components are non-refundable. No substitutions allowed. Dinner includes soup or house salad, entree and non-alcoholic beverage. Rate is applicable to 2009 dates only. Kiva room upgrade for $35.
For more information:Photos courtesy Mesa VerdeLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:57 AM
Atlanta Hotel Offers Honeymoon Send-Off Package
We've always recommended that couples who are headed to a Caribbean all-inclusive grab an early morning flight so they can make the most of their day in the islands and enjoy the meals and drinks they've paid for...but that's not always possible. If you don't live close enough to the airport and have to make connections, it can be tough to get a morning flight and you'll instead arrive late in the day, possibly just in time for bed.
Or you can spend the night before your trip near the airport. We just received word of a new package offered by The Renaissance Concourse Hotel - Atlanta Airport. The Honeymoon Send-Off Getaway Atlanta Hotel Package offers couples the chance to spend a night before or after the honeymoon near the airport.
The Package: The Honeymoon Send-Off Getaway Package includes:
-- Luxury overnight Atlanta airport accommodations
-- Chilled champagne and hand-dipped chocolate-covered strawberries upon
arrival
-- Town car to Hartsfield-Jackson Airport
-- Breakfast for two (up to $34.00)
-- Complimentary self parking, duration of your trip
-- Return shuttle transfer from the airport
-- Late check-out of 2 p.m.
Price: Prices range from $159-$169 per night (depending on room type).
Dates: This package is valid through December 31, 2009.
For Reservations: Atlanta hotel reservations may be confirmed online at
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-deals/atlsa-renaissance-concourse-hotel-atlanta-airport/?offerInfo=301742 or at
www.renaissanceconcourse.com (check that promotional code HON appears in the Corporate/Promotional code box), or call 1-800-834-7282 in the US and ask for promotional code HON.
For more information:Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:49 AM
The Signature at MGM Grand Offers Spring Fling package
Great deals are coming in on Las Vegas getaways; occupancy is down in that city and the two of you can take advantage of it with some good packages. Here's one we just recieved: The Signate at MGM Grand is offering a Spring Fling Package starting at $129.
The Package: The Spring Fling package includes:
- $50 Resort Credit towards dining, entertainment, spa, or nightlife. You can use it at restaurants featuring Tom Colicchio, Michael Mina, Wolfgang Puck, and restaurateur Stephen Hanson (not available at Rainforest Café, Emeril’s and Starbucks) or apply it to entertainment options like Cirque du Soleil’s KÀ (we love this show!) and MGM Grand’s Crazy Horse Paris. May only be redeemed after check-in. Guests must charge tickets to their room.The credit is redeemable at MGM Grand’s fabulous Grand Spa- a 30,000 square-foot haven.
- $50 Credit for Walter’s Golf Courses. Spend your day on the course and soak up the sun in this tropical golfer’s paradise located right on the Strip. This golf credit is redeemable only at Bali Hai Golf Corse, Royal Links Golf Club, or Desert Pines Golf Club (please note, Desert Pines Golf Club is a $35 credit from June 1 through August 31 only).
Package Dates: Book by March 17, 2009. No minimum stay is required. Restricted dates will apply.
Why It's Dreamy: The Signature at MGM Grand is tucked behind a private, gated entrance just off the Strip. This non-smoking, non-gaming resort boasts suites ranging from 550 to 1,500 square feet. Accommodations include king-size, pillow-top beds graced with 300-thread count Egyptian cotton sheets and plush down comforters. Oversized marble-and-granite bathrooms offer dual vanities, whirlpool tubs, June Jacobs’ spa products and cozy robes. At the touch of a button, you can request dining or even spa services within the privacy of your suite. Guests also enjoy a relaxing pool complex and state-of-the-art fitness centers. The Signature is just steps from MGM Grand’s casino, dining, and entertainment options.
To Book:- Call The Signature at MGM Grand at 1-877-727-0007 and use booking code “SPR009”
Labels: Las Vegas, USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:53 PM
Dirty Dancing Package Offered at Hyatt Regency Boston
Here's a fun package we just received: the Hyatt Regency Boston is offering a Dirty Dancing Package in honor of the musical version of the classic film. The show runs at Boston's Opera House on its premiere US tour through April 12.
The Package: The Dirty Dancing package includes:
- two prime orchestra seats
- deluxe guest room
- valet parking
- free show souvenirs
- free breakfast in Avenue One
- buy one dessert get the second free
- late 2pm check-out
Package Dates: Through April 12, 2009
The Show: Dirty Dancing, set in 1963, has become a national phenomenon with its unforgettable dance moves and heartwarming tunes. It is based on the 1987 film starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey, and has been adapted for the stage by Eleanor Bergstein, who wrote the original movie. The American Tour stars Josef Brown as “Johnny” and Amanda Leigh Cobb as “Baby” and closely follows the plot of the movie.
To book:Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:34 PM
Where Have Spring Break Prices Dropped the Most?
Are you still looking for a spring break destination? If you're watching your budget (what are we saying...who ISN'T?), check out this list just released by Orbitz. It covers the top 10 three-star and four-star properties in North America, Mexico and the Caribbean that offer the biggest savings in average daily hotel rates (ADR) for March 1 - April 15, 2009 as compared to the same period in 2008.
Here are your biggest price losers...which definitely make them winners:
Three Star Hotels
ADR ADR YOY ADR %
Ranking Destination 2009* 2008** Change
1 Barbados $89 $325 -72%
2 Banff, Canada $56 $124 -55%
3 Las Vegas, NV $48 $104 -54%
4 Puerto Rico $106 $220 -52%
5 Taos, NM $70 $142 -51%
6 Dominican Republic $151 $293 -48%
7 Winter Park, CO $84 $160 -48%
8 Whistler, BC $160 $248 -36%
9 St. Lucia $197 $301 -34%
10 Turks & Caicos $254 $386 -34%
*Based on Average Daily Hotel Rates (ADR) of 3-Star hotel bookings made on Orbitz.com by 2/23/09, for travel between 3/1/09 and 4/15/09.
** Based on Average Daily Hotel Rates (ADR) of 3-Star hotel bookings made on Orbitz.com by 2/23/08, for travel between 3/1/08 and 4/15/08.
Four Star Hotels
ADR ADR YOY ADR %
Ranking Destination 2009* 2008** Change
1 Puerto Rico $130 $336 -61%
2 Nassau, Bahamas $121 $269 -55%
3 Bermuda $137 $300 -54%
4 Barbados $328 $702 -53%
5 St. Kitts $148 $310 -52%
6 Biloxi, MS $91 $169 -46%
7 Jamaica $137 $250 -45%
8 Las Vegas, NV $87 $152 -43%
9 Jackson Hole, WY $169 $279 -39%
10 Crested Butte, CO $250 $412 -39%
*Based on Average Daily Hotel Rates (ADR) of 4-Star hotel bookings made on Orbitz.com by 2/23/09, for travel between 3/1/09 and 4/15/09.
** Based on Average Daily Hotel Rates (ADR) of 4-Star hotel bookings made on Orbitz.com by 2/23/08, for travel between 3/1/08 and 4/15/08.Labels: Canada, Caribbean, Mexico, USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 1:53 PM
Win a Ski Vacation in Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley
Couples headed to Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley ski area can now enjoy a complete winter getaway thanks to the “Ski and Stay Headquarters” experience and www.SkiStayPA.com. Offering exclusive getaway packages with VIP benefits and discounts at Blue Mountain Ski Resorts, special hotel events and activities specifically for the ski traveler, SkiStayPA.com is also sponsoring its first Flickr contest to give away a stay!
Contest: Ski and Stay Headquarter’s site, www.SkiStayPA.com, is also sponsoring its first annual Flickr Photo Contest; the winner will receive a free getaway at the participating hotel of their choice. For contest details, visit
www.SkiStayPA.com/Connect.
Features: Features of the “Ski and Stay Headquarters” Experience include:
- Direct-to-Slope Ticketing Access means No Lines! Just get to the slopes and start skiing
- In-Hotel Ski Power-Up Station – hot beverages, energy bars, lip balms, ski way and other essentials
- Indulge at the heated hot tubs and/or heated pool after a long day on the slops, Aspen-style
- Ski and Snowboard Waxing Station at each hotel
- Food & Beverage vouchers, including the new Samual Adams Pub
- S’moresgaboard at the Holiday Inn Lehigh Valley – Every Friday and Saturday night, head over to the warm fire to be welcomed by a decadent S’mores topping station offering chocolate, springs, whipped cream toppings and more; included with hotel stay.
Price: Ski and Stay packages start at $199 per night, but vary by hotel and availability.
For more information: Labels: contests, USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:09 PM
Top 10 Romantic Inns for 2009 Announced
Looking for a romantic inn? Check out the list of the top 10 romantic inns for 2009 we just received from American Historic Inns, Inc., a guidebook publisher and the parent company to iLoveInns.com. This is the 16th year they've selected this top 10 list selected from across the US. What do they look for in a romantic B&B? Scenic setting and location, interior beauty and design, subtle yet personable hospitality, pampering amenities and creative activities.
2009 Top 10 Romantic InnsMacCallum House Inn & Restaurant in Mendocino, California offers wine tours escorted by a local guide in a stretch limo or Lincoln Town Car. An
al fresco gourmet lunch is included at one of the vineyards. Other arrangements can be made for a romantic horseback ride on the beach, a picnic backpack hike to waterfalls, or a canoe ride up Big River. The Mendocino Lovers Getaway Package helps guests celebrate love with a Lovers' Basket full of generous treats.
Highland Haven Creekside Inn in Evergreen, Colorado boasts two Sweetheart Trees where lovers are allowed to carve their initials or have them professionally carved. There is also a Lover's Lane with pavers that line the walkway and stones that can be personalized with names, initials and dates. The Winter Wonderland Romance Tray is a gorgeous presentation for couples.
The Towers Bed & Breakfast in Milford, Delaware is all about location. Peaceful and secluded in a small town on the Mispillion River, yet it is near popular Atlantic beaches to easily experience the seaside. Couples can also enjoy romantic strolls along the Riverwalk. This grand mansion is reminiscent of the Gilded Age and boasts an enclosed garden, private pool and deck area. Special requests for wine, flowers, etc. are accommodated to make each stay perfectly romantic.
Port d'Hiver Bed and Breakfast in Melbourne Beach, Florida features personalized yet unobtrusive concierge service amid a luxurious retreat on a little barrier island near the ocean and the river. Watch the sun rise and set over the water! Romance packages feature pampering items to create a romantic oasis. Select a spa basket with a gift certificate to Essentials Day Spa or an arranged VIP candlelit dinner at a local restaurant.
Carriage House at the Harbor in South Haven, Michigan has created a Romantic Escape Package with a complimentary room upgrade when available. Follow the trail of rose petals from your door into a private hideaway with soft music, candles, chilled champagne or sparkling cider, chocolate covered strawberries and a certificate for an intimate dinner for two at a local restaurant.
Fleur-de Lys Mansion in St. Louis, Missouri has an assortment of romantic packages to choose from. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Tower Grove Park, savor a sumptuous four-course fireside dinner and relax with in-room massages, chilled champagne and French crystal champagne flutes. Marriage proposals are popular on a bench in the garden by the pond with waterfalls.
The Edward Harris House Bed & Breakfast Inn in Rochester, New York is known for its Play Your Way Packages which are tailored to the guests' desires. Elopement Packages are quite popular here, too, and include an officiate, witnesses, cake, flowers, sparkling cider or bring-your-own wine, as well as spending the honeymoon night and a leisurely breakfast in an elegant suite with late check-out.
The Inn & Spa at Intercourse Village in Intercourse, Pennsylvania invites couples to escape everyday routines and experience the unique luxuries found at this inn. Besides the many wonderful packages that pamper and please, the inn features a French Country Spa with treatments for couples to share together. The secluded starlit gazebo with a fountain, low light and soft music is often appropriately called the Wedding Garden.
French Quarter Inn in Charleston, South Carolina is incredibly service-oriented and attuned to guests’ needs. They offer a variety of amenities and romantic packages designed for couples to select the items and activities they would like to have included. The inn is an enclave of luxury in the midst of the historic cobblestone streets of moon-lit Charleston.
Inn at Warner Hall in Gloucester, Virginia makes each couple's experience special and uniquely memorable. The Honeymoon and Anniversary Special is fun and exciting with a surprise Dating Game quiz and prizes. A Valentine's Weekend Dinner Dance includes the signature Chef's Tasting Dinner, bottle of wine or sparkling cider, chocolates, a bud vase of roses and live musical entertainment. Celebrate a special occasion with divine delicacies, and feel the bliss of massage and spa treatments at Bridgewater' s Salon and Spa.
For more information:Labels: bed and breakfasts, USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:51 PM
Denver's Hotel Teatro Offers Valentine's Package
Colorado's snuggly weather is a natural fit for Valentine's; a special package in a luxury boutique hotel makes another good reason for lovers to opt for a Denver getaway.
The 110-room Hotel Teatro, located in downtown Denver, is offering a special Valentine's Day Package, a 38% savings off the standard rack rates.
The Package: The Valentine's Day special a stay in one of the hotel's luxurious rooms as well as:
- a bottle of Rosa Regale with champagne flutes to keep
- Belvedere chocolate hearts
- fresh strawberries
- rose petal turndown
- Breakfast through room service or PRIMA ($40 value and)
- a 1pm check out time for extra snuggle time
Price: $279 per night, double occupancy
Dates: The Valentine's Day Package is valid 2/13-2/14/2009, based on hotel availability.
For More Information:
Labels: USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:10 PM
California's Borrego Ranch Resort & Spa Offers Valentine's Getaway
Located in the Anza-Borrego desert, Borrego Ranch offers a getaway reminiscent of the 1940s...but in a modern resort that just opened in November 2008. A good match for couples focused on healthy living and the active lifestyle, the resort includes Tom Fazio golf.
One-Night Deluxe Room Valentine PackageThe Package: The one-night package includes:
- Candlelight dinner for two on Saturday, February 14th
- two 50-minute spa treatments
Room Amenities: Sparkling wine, chocolate strawberries, cheese plate and aromatherapy bath item.
Price: $395 plus taxes, double occupancy (40% savings)
Two-Night Deluxe Room Valentine Package
The Package: The two-night package includes:
- Candlelight dinner for two on Saturday, February 14th
- four 50-minute spa treatments or 18 holes of Tom Fazio Signature golf (services may be combined)
Room Amenities: sparkling wine, chocolate strawberries, cheese plate, and aromatherapy bath item.
Price: $760 plus taxes, double occupancy (45% Savings)
The Fine Print: Alcohol not included. Gratuities included. Subject to availability, for arrival on 2/13/09 or 2/14/09. Some restrictions apply. Value of $125 per treatment may be applied to toward choice of spa service. Golf is not included in one-night package.
For More Information:Labels: USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:09 PM
Ohio's Deer Creek Resort Offers Valentine's Package & Prize
Couples celebrating Valentine's Day at Ohio’s Deer Creek Resort come out a winner thanks to the romantic atmosphere--but guests also have the chance to win a $350 gift certificate for their loved one. Guests taking advantage of Deer Creek’s Loveboat package will automatically be entered into a drawing for the gift card to Precision Jewelers of Circleville, Ohio.
The Package: The Loveboat package includes:
- a bottle of champagne
- two wine glasses
- one bottle of bubble bath
- delicious chocolate truffles
Couples can mingle with other couples during a reception with light hors d’oeuvres and cocktails and enjoy meals for two at Rafter’s restaurant, including a Valentine’s Day Special dinner menu and breakfast buffet.
The Package: The Valentine’s Day Loveboat package starts at $279 for a two-night stay.
Dates: The package is available Feb. 13-15, 2009.
For More Information:Photo courtesy Deer Creek ResortLabels: USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 12:35 PM
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego Offers Fantasy Dream Date Package
Are you looking for a way to celebrate Valentine's Day in rock star style? The Hard Rock Hotel San Diego is offering a Fantasy Dream Date Package that lets you celebrate with luxury including suite accommodations, a six-hour couple's treatment at the Rock Spa and romantic dinner at the world-class Japanese restaurant, Nobu.
The Suite: The Fantasy Dream Date begins upon check-in when guests receive the key to their private suite complete with plush furnishings, lavish 300-thread-count cotton linens and sensually-styled bathrooms with ceiling-mounted rain showers.
The Spa: For the ultimate in intimacy, the couple will embark on a six-hour Love Potion No. 9 treatment at the hotel’s Rock Spa, named one of the best new spas of 2008 by Spa Magazine. The day-long escape begins with a romance welcome in Rock Spa’s couples’ treatment room which includes a dual shower and two treatment tables, followed by rejuvenating body exfoliations, soothing body wraps with reflexology and customized massages. Once fully relaxed, the couple will then enjoy a romantic lunch for two, followed by personalized facials, scalp massages and a seductive ninth treatment designed to promote interaction between the couple. Finally, the couple will enjoy a private champagne ceremony including seasonal berries and organic chocolates and a take-home gift sure to put anyone in the mood for love. (The Love Potion No. 9 treatment is also available á la carte and is priced at $799 per couple plus a 20 percent gratuity.)
The Dinner: When night falls, the second phase of Hard Rock Hotel San Diego’s Fantasy Dream Date takes place with dinner at the world’s most celebrated Japanese restaurant, Nobu. Special for Valentine’s Day the chef has created two different multi-course tasting menus consisting of several of the restaurant’s signature dishes, as well as some seasonal and local selections and chocolate tasting desserts for two.
Price: Fantasy Dream Date packages start at $1,500 per couple and include a one-night stay in a Rock Star Suite, Love Potion No. 9 treatment at Rock Spa and $300 dining credit at Nobu. Package is subject to availability. Tax and gratuity are not included.
Dates: The package is available for purchase from January 15 through March 15 and advance reservations are required.
For More Information:Photo courtesy Hard Rock Hotel San DiegoLabels: USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 1:16 PM
Love Grows in Brooklyn
With its magnificent restaurants, world-class entertainment and spectacular sites, New York City has always been an ideal setting romantic getaway. Located just a short cab ride away over the majestic Brooklyn and Williamsburg bridges, are two of Brooklyn’s coolest hotels – hotel le jolie and hotel le bleu. Situated in Williamsburg and Park Slope respectively, hotel le jolie and hotel le bleu are offering the ideal Valentine’s Day Packages for couples wishing to experience a romantic rendezvous in Brooklyn’s trendiest neighborhoods.
hotel le jolieThe Package: The Valentines Day Package at hotel le jolie includes:
- Accommodations for two nights
- Rose petals scattered throughout the room
- Chocolates upon arrival
- $50 American Express Gift Certificate (Based on a two-night minimum and one American Express Gift Certificate per stay)
- Complimentary continental breakfast
Dates: The package is valid February 10-15, 2009.
Rates: Starting at $219 per night/double occupancy. Rates and packages are subject to change, based upon space availability and exclude tax and gratuities. Rates cannot be combined with any other offer.
Why It's Dreamy: The 54-room hotel le jolie refreshes the globetrotter with its contemporary urban living spaces. Nestled in Brooklyn’s trendy Williamsburg area, hotel le jolie offers comfortable rooms furnished with in-room amenities including 42-inch flat screens, iPod docking stations, mini bars, refrigerators, dual-line telephones, large work desks with no-glare lighting and ergonomic chairs and Wi-Fi and cable high-speed Internet access. www.hotellejolie.com.
hotel le bleu The Package: The Couples Getaway Package at hotel le bleu includes the following:
- Accommodations in a Luxury King Bed with a balcony and a Manhattan skyline view
- Early check-in
- Bottle of chilled champagne upon arrival
- Rose petals scattered throughout the room
- Chocolates upon arrival
- Breakfast in bed room service
- Shopping gift bag from Brooklyn boutique Zoe including a 10 percent discount gift certificate and Voluspa Travel Candle.
Price: Starting at $445 per night/double occupancy
Why It's Dreamy: Located in the Park Slope section of Brooklyn, hotel le bleu offers 48 guestrooms decorated to maximize space and provide the ultimate experience in comfort. Luxury items such as Egyptian cotton bedding, orthopedic mattresses and high-end in-room amenities including Nutura organic spa products and “Touch Me Robes” – which were among Oprah Winfrey’s “favorite things” - offer the ultimate in relaxation. In 2009, hotel le bleu will welcome a signature restaurant Vue that will feature continental cuisine. hotel le bleu offers luxury, comfort and service comparable to Manhattan hotels but at significantly lower rates.
For More Information:Labels: New York City, USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 10:08 AM
112109: Atlantic City Announces Valentine's Day Specials
Looking for some Valentine's Day fun in the Atlantic City area? We just received this rundown of special packages, from hotel offerings to romantic restaurant specials, from the Atlantic City Convention and Visitors Authority:
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ, January 21, 2009 – If romantic trysts, steamy love affairs and searches for singles are on tap for Valentine’s Day, there’s no better place to celebrate than the city that’s “always turned on.” Atlantic City
is toasting lovers with romantic hotel packages, lavish events and special prix fixe dinners from some of the destination’s hottest locales.
Events
The Absecon Lighthouse is hosting “An Evening of Romance and Renewal” from 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. Couples will have the opportunity to “make out” with their loved one in the lighthouse tower with catered aphrodisiacs on each level while dancing to romantic DJ spins. An on-site minister will conduct a vow renewal at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are available for $100 per couple. Proceeds benefit education programs at the Absecon Lighthouse. For more information or to RSVP, please call (609) 449-1360 or visit www.abseconlighthouse.org. An accompanying hotel package at The Chelsea is also available for $175 per couple including tickets to this event. To book, please call The Chelsea at (800) 548-3030 or visit www.thechelsea-ac.com.
Everyone’s favorite elephant, Lucy, a historic 65-foot tall wooden monument built in 1881 and the world’s largest pachyderm, will play host to a romantic evening of dining and live music on February 14. A gourmet dinner will be prepared by award-winning chefs from Philadelphia and New Hope, complete with choice of five appetizers, five entrees, two sides, dessert and coffee. Each couple will receive a complimentary champagne toast in addition to a rose for ladies and bag of peanuts for gentlemen. Weather permitting, photos will be taken atop Lucy as a keepsake. Two seatings are available for 20 couples each. The cost is $245 per couple, plus $40 gratuity with a portion being tax deductible. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (609) 823-6473 or logging onto the website at www.LucyTheElephant.com.
The Pier Shops at Caesars will host a complimentary Valentine’s Weekend Reception on Friday and Saturday nights, February 13 and 14. Live entertainment, champagne bars and specialty chocolates will be available to shoppers on the third floor restaurant level. Special offers from retailers will also be showcased. Seven gourmet restaurants are located on level three of the Pier Shops, many of which will offer Valentine’s cocktails and cuisine. Stephen Starr’s Buddakan and Continental will feature the regular à la carte menu with chef specials throughout the weekend. A special Kamasutra cocktail at Buddakan and Cupid’s Arrow at Continental will supplement the drink menus. For more information, please visit www.thepiershopsatcaesars.com.
On February 6, The Quarter at the Tropicana is partnering with SoJO 104.9 FM for a live on-air Kissing Contest with host, Chris Knight. The broadcast will air from 3:00-7:00 p.m. and the contest kicks off promptly at 4:00 p.m. Winners are decided based on longest kiss. They will receive an overnight package at the Tropicana for Valentine’s night. For more information, please visit www.tropicana.net or call (800) THE-TROP.
Resorts Atlantic City will offer a “Dinner and Disco” menu at Gallagher’s Steakhouse on Friday, February 13 and Saturday, February 14. The three-course, prix fixe menu for two includes admission to Resorts’ hit 70s and 80s dance club, Boogie Nights. Following a sumptuous dinner paired with sparkling wine, guests are invited to dance the night away during a non-stop party featuring disco, pop and dance hits spun by DJ Gabor Kiss. This event is available for $160 per couple. For reservations, please call (609) 340-6555.
Hotel Packages
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa’s “Bring Sexy Back” package includes a one-night stay in an Opus Suite, champagne upon arrival, chocolate and strawberries at turndown, guaranteed reservations at one of the Borgata’s gourmet restaurants, a $250 spa credit for two at Spa Toccare and late check out at 1:00 p.m. the following day. This package is available for the night of February 14 only at a starting rate of $2,000 based on double occupancy. For reservations at Borgata, please call (866) MYBORGATA or visit www.theborgata.com.
For an intimate getaway, the Chelsea Pub & Inn is offering a Valentine’s Day Weekend Special on the nights of Friday, February 13 and Saturday, February 14. The package includes two nights of accommodations for two people, a bottle of champagne, a long-stemmed red rose, dinner for two served in the main dining room on Friday night including wine or sparkling cider, two complimentary drink cards and continental breakfast each morning. Dinner features Traditional Onion Soup, choice of Coquilles St. Jacques or Beef Bourguignon, Green Leaf Salad and Chocolate Cake for dessert. The entire package is available for $250 per couple plus tax. Other amenities may be added such as assorted regional candies and a bouquet of flowers for an additional charge. To book, please call (609) 345-4700 or visit www.ChelseaPubandInn.com.
The “Sweetheart Special” at Inn The Gardens B&B is available throughout the month of February and features a two-night stay at the charming hideaway, flowers, sparkling cider and chocolates for $220 per couple. The Deluxe package upgrade is offered at $240 per couple in the Daybreak Room. To book, please call (609) 399-0800 or visit www.innthegardens.com.
Trump Plaza is offering a deluxe room for two, prix fixe menu at Roberto’s or Max’s, including a bottle of Pomerey Brut champagne, turndown service and continental in-room breakfast for Valentine’s weekend. The package is available at $479 based on double occupancy. To book, please call (800) 677-7378 or visit the website at www.trumpplaza.com. Romantics who wish to dine only can do so at Roberto’s, where the “Lover’s Dinner” menu consists of Seared Sea Scallops, Caesar Salad, Chateaubriand for Two and Chocolate Fondue. Max’s “Lover’s Dinner” features Lobster Phyllo, Hearts of Bibb Salad, Chateaubriand for Two and Bailey’s Ice Cream Cake. Both include a bottle of champagne and coffee drinks, all for $140 per couple. Restaurant reservations can be made by calling (609) 441-7820.
The Water Club, A Signature Hotel by Borgata, will ignite passion with its Immerse & Indulge package starting at $3,000 based on double occupancy. Available on February 14 only, the package includes one night in a Hideaway Suite, a passion kit in-room amenity, $400 spa credit for two at Immersion, an in-room tasting trio of aphrodisiacs upon arrival with champagne, guaranteed reservations at one of the property’s gourmet restaurants and late check out at 1:00 p.m. For reservations at The Water Club, please call (800) 800-8817 or visit www.thewaterclubhotel.com.
Romantic Restaurant Specials
The Atlantic City Country Club, with its roaring fireplaces, glowing candlelight and sweeping skyline views, is considered one of the most romantic spots in the city for Valentine’s Day. Couples may enjoy strolling violins, lovers delight dinner specials and complimentary roses for the ladies all weekend long. On February 13 and 14, dinner will be served from 5 p.m. with entrees beginning at $16. The Club’s legendary Sunday Brunch will also be available on February 15. For reservations, call (609) 236-4465.
East Bay Crab & Grille’s Valentine’s menu is available through February 28. In addition to the regular menu, dinner for two with Colossal King Crab or Filet Mignon is priced at $79 for two people. Also included are a salad course, seafood appetizer, vegetable side dishes and dessert. Award-winning Santa Ema Chilean wine is also available for an additional $12. Reservations can be made by calling (609) 272-7721.
The Palm, located in The Quarter at Tropicana, is for lovers this Valentine’s Day. A three-course lobster dinner for two for only $125 per couple is available from February 9 through February 15. Couples may toast each other with a glass of Mumm Napa Brut Prestige champagne while sharing a 4-pound Nova Scotia Lobster and one Palm family-style side dish. Dessert choices include Key Lime Pie, World Famous Cheesecake and Molten Chocolate Cake. To schedule a reservation, please call (609) 344-7256 or visit www.thepalm.com.
Graham Weber, Executive Chef of Seaview Resort & Spa, has unveiled a three-course prix fixe Valentine’s menu (February 14 only) for an incredible value of $35 per person. A wine pairing is also available for an additional $18 per person. The comprehensive menu highlights a variety of soups, salads, desserts and entrees including Osso Bucco Milanese, Organic Herb Rubbed Atlantic Salmon, Duck Confit Cassoulet and Filet Mignon & Crab Stuffed Shrimp. To make a reservation, please call the Seaview Resort & Spa at (609) 652-1800.
Three of the gourmet dining options at Showboat Atlantic City are offering delectable prix fixe Valentine’s menus on Friday, February 13 and Saturday, February 14. For $29.99 per person, House of Blues Restaurant’s menu consists of several appetizer and entrée choices such as Chicken Tortilla Soup, Pistachio Crusted Rack of Lamb, Mardi Gras Crab Cakes and Molten Chocolate Cake for dessert. The French Quarter Buffet will host a lavish Valentine’s Feast for $25.99 per person including a glass of champagne. Guests may indulge in everything from Crawdads and Tasso Ham Etouffee and Low Country Shrimp Sautee to Pork Chops with Sweet Potato Gravy and Brioche Crusted Tilapia with Champagne Cream. Mansion Café’s three-course menu includes a House Salad, Stuffed 6 oz. Lobster Tail Creole and Chocolate Fudge Cake Sundae for $24.99 per person. To book a reservation at the restaurants at Showboat, please call (609) 343-4000.
Two of Trump Marina’s gourmet restaurants have unveiled special three-course menus just for Valentine’s Day on the night of February 14. DJ’s Steakhouse invites guests to feast on a Lobster Martini appetizer followed by Filet Mignon Wrapped in Applewood Bacon and Chocolate Truffle Bavarian to finish. Harborview is serving Baked Stuffed Long Stem Artichokes with Jumbo Lump Crab Meat, Grilled Veal Medallions and Mediterranean Shrimp with Lemon Risotto and White Chocolate Tiramisu Heart with Caramelized Strawberries. Each prix fixe option is available for $110 per couple and includes a bottle of champagne. Reservations can be made by calling the Trump Marina at (609) 441-2000.
For More Information:
Labels: USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:55 AM
01162009: Manhattan Hotel Offers Sensual Valentine's Package
If you're looking to turn up the heat in what's been a very chilly winter, here's a hot-blooded package we've just received from New York's Hotel Gansevoort. The sensual Valentine’s Day Package includes plenty of romantic and some naughty distractions to turn up the temperature on your romance.
The Package: The Valentine’s Day Package is full of sin-tillating treats including:
· Early check-in
· Deluxe Room or Suite accommodations
· A dozen red roses
· Chocolate-covered strawberries
· Pool access and two complimentary poolside beverages
· Bottle of chilled Moet champagne
· Mile High Kit
· Twister
· Book of Erotic Games
· Complimentary Continental breakfast in Ono
· Late check-out
Dates: The Valentine's package is available from February 12 - 16, 2009.
Price: Prices starting at $545.00 for a Deluxe room and $765.00 for a Suite, both based on double occupancy. Tax and gratuity not included.
Why It's Dreamy: Hotel Gansevoort is the first luxury, full-service hotel in Manhattan’s vibrant Meatpacking District. Located on Ninth Avenue at 13th Street, the hotel's signature rooftop offers 360-degree river and city views and features a 45-foot heated outdoor pool with underwater music; Plunge Bar and roof garden; and an event loft with soaring 20-foot ceilings. Chic guest rooms feature hi-tech touches and include sumptuous feather beds, flat screen TVs, CD players, and complimentary Wireless Internet. The 187-room hotel includes the Gansevoort Spa & Lounge; Ono, a Japanese and robatayaki restaurant; and the Garden of Ono lounge.
For More Information:Labels: USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 10:25 AM
1162009: Chicago's Talbott Hotel Offers Valentine's Packages
Looking for a Valentine's getaway that's also green? Check out Chicago's Talbott Hotel, one of only five Green Certified hotels in the city. The 149-room, family-owned, boutique property is offering Valentine's specials...all just a block off of Michigan Avenue and the entertainment district of Rush Street.
Couples arriving either February 13 (Friday) or February 14 (Saturday) can stay two nights at a rate of $179 per night and receive a third night free.
Want to stay only two nights? The rate is $199 per night and you'll receive complimentary overnight valet parking and breakfast for two each day.
If two nights are not enough to turn up the heat, lovebirds can stay a third night at the same rate and receive chocolate covered strawberries and a bottle of sparkling wine. To qualify for this offer, you must arrive Thursday, Friday or Saturday of Valentine's weekend. All offers are exclusive of tax and subject to availability.
Bonus: Regardless of which offer the two of you select, The Talbott will provide couples with a $25 gift card to Soma Intimates inside WaterTower Place Shopping Mall to help set the stage for a romantic weekend away.
For more information:Labels: USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 10:08 AM
1142009: RockResorts Offers Three For Free Package
If the two of you are looking for some extra value in travel (and who isn't these days?), check out the latest offer from RockResorts we just received. The "Three for Free" package offers guests three valuable incentives in resorts located in some of the country's most cuddly locations: Vail, Aspen, Santa Fe, and other dreamy destinations. This offer is valid at RockResorts' nine resort properties as well as all Vail Resorts Hospitality locations.
The Package: With the "Three for Free" package, guests get:
- an additional night of lodging completely free
- a complimentary bottle of Bonterra wine, made with organic grapes
- a $50 RockResorts gift card that can be used at RockResorts Spas, various restaurants, dining or gift shops, or $50 "on-mountain cash" that can be used for dining, ski/snowboard rentals and more at the company's mountain locations
Dates: The "Three for Free" package is valid for travel through April 15, 2009. Package must be booked by February 28, 2009 and is based on availability, blackout dates apply. There's a minimum two- or three-night stay required (this varies per property).
Resorts: The RockResorts collection presently includes:
- The Arrabelle at Vail Square in Vail, Colorado
- The Lodge at Vail in Vail, Colorado
- Hotel Jerome in Aspen, Colorado
- The Osprey at Beaver Creek in in Beaver Creek, Colorado
- The Pines Lodge in Beaver Creek, Colorado
- Keystone Lodge & Spa in Keystone, Colorado
- La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa in Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Snake River Lodge & Spa in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
- The Landings St. Lucia, Rodney Bay, St. Lucia
This package is also valid at Vail Resorts Hospitality which includes Grand Teton Lodging Company in Jackson Hole, Wyo., and a number of owned or managed independently-flagged hotels including the Vail Mountain Marriott Resort & Spa in Vail, Colo.; Austria Haus Hotel in Vail, Colo.; The Great Divide Lodge in Breckenridge, Colo.; Breckenridge Mountain Lodge in Breckenridge, Colo.; Village Hotel in Breckenridge, Colo.; The Inn at Keystone in Keystone, Colo.; and Ski Tip Lodge in Keystone, Colo. Vail Resorts Hospitality also manages approximately 2,000 condominium properties across the country with a concentration in the base villages of Vail Resorts' five mountain resorts.
For more information:Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 11:48 AM
1132009: Lock Your Love in Lovelock, Nevada
Here's a unique Valentine's Day idea: how about locking your love? The ancient tradition, which began in China, involves putting a lock on the link of a chain and throwing away the key.
There's just one place in the US that offers love-locking: Lovers Lock Plaza in Lovelock, Nevada. To celebrate a relationship on Valentine’s Day, lovers can purchase a lock and have it engraved with a meaningful message, then mail it to Lovelock where it’ll be placed upon the chain.
A photo of the lock can be mailed back to commemorate the gesture.
Want to see your lock in person? You can make the trip to Lovers Lock Plaza, located in the heart of town just 93 miles east of Reno, and lock your love in person.
For More InformationPhoto courtesy Lovelock, NevadaLabels: USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 2:45 PM
162009: Branson's Chateau on the Lake Offers Valentine's Package
Looking for a romantic getaway near Branson, Missouri? Check out the AAA Four-Diamond Chateau on the Lake Resort & Spa overlooking Table Rock Lake. The destination resort has just announced a special Valentine Package for lovers.
The Package: The Valentine Package includes:
- a one-night stay
- bottle of champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries delivered to your room
- a four-course dinner-for-two at Chateau Grille overlooking Table Rock Lake
- a specially-selected Spa Chateau amenity
- complimentary valet parking
Price: The package starts at $320 per couple, based on double occupancy. The price includes tax and service charges, and the package is based on availability.
Dates: The package is available February 12-15, 2009.
Why It's Dreamy: Named by Expedia one of the top 50 hotels in the world for value and quality, Chateau on the Lake Resort & Spa offers a romantic mountaintop and lakefront setting convenient to Branson. Branson’s only AAA Four-Diamond resort includes the 14,000-square-foot Spa Chateau featuring an Infinity Tub that is filled from the ceiling; a decadent Roman Bath beneath a waterfall overlooking Table Rock Lake; a lake-view Movement Therapy Studio for Yoga; and more.
For More Information:- call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) or (417) 334-1161
- visit www.ChateauOnTheLake.com
Photo courtesy Chateau On the LakeLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 12:27 PM
12112008: Enter to Win a Dreamy Atlantic City Getaway
Ready for a romantic getaway but don't have the cash? Try your luck with the new contest from Harrah's Resort Atlantic City. They're giving away a two-night stay with some dreamy extras like a spa experience package for two. To enter, you'll send in a video about why you deserve some post-holiday TLC. Bet you think of some good reasons!
Visit
www.reddoorsuiteescape.com to submit video entries as to why YOU are most deserving of some post-holiday TLC. Videos will be posted on the site for viewing as well as visitor voting.
The Prize: The Grand Prize includes:
- 2-night accommodations in the exclusive Red Door Suite at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City (Based on double occupancy. Accommodations available Sunday-Thursday only and must occur before July 31, 2009. Advanced booking required. Subject to availability. Blackout dates do apply.)
- Red Door Signature Spa Experience Package for Two
- Cream and Sugar Scrub (50 minutes)
- Red Door Signature Massage (50 minutes)
- Red Door Signature Facial with PREVAGE™
- Red Door Signature Pedicure
- Red Door Signature Manicure
- Haircut, Blow-dry and Finish
- Makeup Application
- Spa Lunch
- $200 Total Rewards Card good at all Harrah’s dining and shopping establishments, including McCormick & Schmicks and the Waterfront Shops
- $200 towards live entertainment at one of Harrah’s Atlantic City properties (Available entertainment options determined by time of visit. Subject to availability.)
- Complimentary admission to The Pool
- (2) Complimentary drinks at The Pool
Other Prizes: Additional prize packages contain perks such as a Red Door Spa Experience Package for Two, and money towards shopping, dining, and live entertainment.
How to Enter: Post a video about why you deserve to win a the Red Door Suite Escape including two nights at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City and a day of spa services at Red Door Spas. Contest videos will be judged by Red Door Spa Holdings to determine the Grand Prize winner. Contest submissions will be posted on
www.RedDoorSuiteEscape.com and can be rated by visitors to that site. Results from ratings do not determine the Contest Grand Prize winner, except in the event of a tie in the judge’s scores.
Deadline: Contest runs through January 31st, 2009.
Labels: contests, USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 10:09 AM
11192008: Huntington Beach Property Offers Romance Package
California's Huntington Beach is pretty romantic on its own but now there's a little extra incentive for lovers to visit: the Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort has introduced a new romance package called the Fuel a Holiday Fire Package.
The Package: To add some romance to your holidays, this package includes:
- accommodations in one of the resort’s modern ocean view suites with private, furnished balcony
- a complimentary tasting of five top-notch wines served fireside at Shades PM Lounge
- a $50 gas credit
Price: Rates for this package start at $239 per night, plus tax and gratuities.
Dates: This package is available through January 31, 2009, based on availability.
Why It's Dreamy: The Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort is located in Huntington Beach on the Pacific Coast Highway and overlooks 8.5 miles of pristine beaches with panoramic views of the Pacific. The resort has recently completed a $10 million renovation and has earned the AAA Four-Diamond rating for 19 consecutive years.
For More Information:Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:15 PM
Poconos Celebrates Small Inns, B&Bs in October
October is Bed & Breakfast / Small Inns Month in the Pocono Mountains and couples will find budget-friendly packages starting as low as $90 per night. You can find more about the region's over 45 Bed & Breakfast and Small Inn properties plus special activities planned during the month of October by visiting
www.800Poconos.com. Just a few of the special packages include:
The Settlers Inn, through October 31, 2008The Bed & Breakfast Month package at the Settlers Inn in Hawley includes two-night midweek accommodations, daily breakfast and one dinner for two at the property’s farm-to-table restaurant. A packed picnic lunch will be provided for couples taking advantage of driving and waterfall tours to see the fall colors. The Bed & Breakfast Month package begins at $365 per night.
The Deer Head Inn Valid through October 31, 2008The Deer Head Inn’s Jazz package in the Delaware Water Gap includes accommodations, breakfast daily and a musical performance during dinner service for two. The package begins at $189, based on double occupancy.
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 4:17 PM
NYLO Providence/Warwick Offers Romance Package
The new NYLO Providence/Warwick in Warwick, Rhode Island is offering a romance package valid year around.
Price: The Romance Package begins at $199.
The Package: NYLO's Romance Package includes:
- overnight accommodations for two
- a bottle of champagne
- dinner in The Loft - NYLO's signature full-service restaurant and bar
- a complimentary in-room movie
Why It's Dreamy: NYLO Providence/Warwick opened on September 2, 2008 as the first property in New England for loft lifestyle hotel innovator, NYLO Hotels. Each of the 163 guestrooms, called guest lofts, has 300 square feet of bright, airy living space, with 10-foot-plus ceilings, exposed brick walls and floor-to-ceiling windows. The property offers a Pure Floor with allergy-friendly guest lofts. Its signature ultra-social living area, The Loft, features a hip atmosphere, eclectic menu and local musicians. A 3,000-square-foot terrace also provides outdoor dining and entertainment.
For more information:• call NYLO Providence/Warwick at 1.866.391.NYLO
• visit
http://www.NYLOHotels.com/WarwickLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 4:13 PM
Utah's Red Mountain Spa Offers Honeymoon Package
If the two of you love adventure, check out the honeymoon package from the Red Mountain Spa in Utah, just a 90-minute drive from Las Vegas. They're offering a special honeymoon package priced at $379 per person, per night based on double occupance in a luxury villa suite. There's a minimum three-night stay.
The Package: Along with accommodations, the honeymoon package includes:
- a 50-minute classic couple’s massage, which can be performed under the stars or in the seclusion of a luxury Villa suite in front of the fireplace
- a registry for the couple, allowing friends to call and enhance the honeymoon with adventure trips and additional spa services – such as a couple’s pedicure, during which the couple indulges in side-by-side footsie pampering, enjoying spa snacks, sparkling waters and take-home instructions from the pedicurist.
- three healthy gourmet meals daily
- Complimentary Bike Rental
- Complimentary In-Room High-Speed Internet Service
- Daily Guided Morning Hikes, Awareness Walks & Tai Chi on the Rocks
- Unlimited Fitness Classes including Yoga, Pilates, Chi Ball, Boot Camp & more
- Cooking Demonstrations & Nutrition Classes
- Healthy Living Classes & Events
- Use of Resort Facilities including Red Cliffs & Desert Breeze Indoor & Seasonal Outdoor Pools, Whirlpools, Walking Trails, Strength Training & Cybex Cardio Equipment
For More Information:• visit
www.redmountainspa.com• call 877.246.HIKE or direct at 435.673.4905
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 4:05 PM
82508: Make Plans for Poconos Leaf Peeping
Although it's still several weeks away, it's time to make plans now for autumn's leaf peeping season. We've just received word from the Poconos Mountains Visitors Bureau that they'll again be offering their annual Fall Foliage Hotline; the region will also have numerous value-added packages and lots of fall festivals.
The 24-hour Fall Foliage Hotline (570-421-5565) is also available online at
www.800poconos.com to learn exactly when and where to catch peak foliage colors. The reports will include the percentage of full color, the estimated time leaves will be at their peak, the percentage of leaves on the trees and a description of native tree species at their peak.
Of special interest to romantic travelers, is the Fall Foliage Celebration Package, valid October 1-31, 2008 at Cove Haven Resort, Paradise Stream Resort and Pocono Palace Resort.
Caesars Pocono Resorts invites leaf-peepers to view the changing colors with a variety of activities at each property while enjoying suite accommodations, unlimited breakfast and dinner, intimate breakfast-in-bed and live entertainment every night. Mondays are “Nature Day” with designated nature walks; Tuesdays include free hayrides; Wednesdays guests can indulge in a free barbecue lunch; and Thursdays feature free horseback riding. Paradise Stream Resort will also host an on-property picnic for each couple including a picnic basket and blanket. Rates start at $230/night.
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 5:06 PM
7212008: Are You Planning Day Trips?
Are the two of you reevaluating your travel plans and considering day trips close to home these days? As the authors of two day trips books (
Day Trips from Austin and
Day Trips from San Antonio), we've long known the fun of day trips as an inexpensive and easy-to-schedule getaway. Recently we polled readers of our
TexasTripper.com travel site about their upcoming travel plans and the results showed that travel is still on the horizon for most, although prices are keeping those plans a little closer to home.
Day Trip or Stay Home?Fifty-eight percent of all travelers surveyed planned to cut back on this year’s travel plans. Many of those travelers planned to take a day trip within two hours of their home town. Although only 66 percent of those surveyed had taken a day trip this year, three out of four planned to take a day trip in the coming months.
How Travelers Plan to Save MoneyVacationing close to home was the top method travelers chose to save money, with 37 percent of those responding that travel near home would be this year’s strategy. Twenty-eight percent of readers planned to look for free attractions while 19 percent planned to search for online discounts. Eleven percent of TexasTripper.com readers planned to either dine in their hotel room or pack picnics as a money-saving strategy. Only seven percent of those surveyed said they were not keeping an eye on the travel budget this summer.
What Travelers Look for OnlineWhen it comes to getting online, 45 percent of those surveyed planned to check the Web for discounts at attractions and hotels. Nineteen percent will use the internet to obtain driving directions to minimize driving distances while 15 percent plan to check on free admission days or discounts after certain hours. Thirteen percent are looking for information on free festivals and eight percent of travelers polled are looking for information on free parks.
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:47 PM
6242008: Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort Launches Fertile Turtle Package
Looking to add to your family on your next vacation? Florida's Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort is reintroducing the Fertile Turtle package (which was extremely popular in 2007) to entice couples to conceive while on vacation.
According to the Caribbean Conservation Corporation & Sea Turtle Survival League, sea turtles are known as a symbol of fertility--so with this package lovebirds have the opportunity to watch sea turtles eggs hatch on the resort’s own three-mile stretch of beach--all while trying to fertilize an egg of their own.
As protecting the natural environment of the local endangered species is important to the resort, a portion of the package proceeds will benefit the Sea Turtle Monitoring & Protection Project of the Conservancy for Southwest Florida.
The Package: The Fertile Turtle Package includes:
- Deluxe accommodations in a Gulf-view guestroom with king-size bed, private balcony and a do not disturb sign
- Red clover and raspberry tea, which have natural pregnancy-enhancing qualities
- Couples massage with Chaste berry and fertility-promoting aromatherapy
- Authentic Balinese commemorative photo album to capture the memories of this special vacation
Dates: This package is only available during sea turtle mating season, now through October 31.
Price: The Fertile Turtle Package starts at $419 per couple, per night
Special Bonus: As a special gift for couples who conceive during their stay, the resort will provide a complimentary three-night stay for a return visit. Proud parents only need to provide a birth certificate and proof of recent hotel stay, within eight to 10 months of baby’s arrival.
Making It Cozy: Committed to conserving the natural habitat of the Marco Island sea turtles, Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort takes every precaution to protect this endangered and vulnerable species. To ensure their safety on property, the hotel has all exterior bulbs fitted with special yellow covers to reduce the amount of light emitted and guests are asked to close their privacy drapes at night as light on the beach can disorient turtle hatchlings. These safety measures also create perfect mood lighting for canoodling couples.
To book the Fertile Turtle Package:• call the Personal Vacation Planners at (800) GET-HERE
For Resort Information:• visit
www.marcoislandmarriott.comFor more information on the Conservancy of Southwest Florida:• visit
www.conservancy.orgPhotos courtesy Marco Island Marriott Beach ResortLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 1:34 PM
6192008: The Parker Meridien Palm Springs Offers Package Based on "The Bachelorette"
Although reality TV contestant DeAnna Pappas may not have won the heart of Brad Womack during the 11th season of
The Bachelor, the Newnan, Georgia real estate agent is once again on a quest for the best man around as the current season of
The Bachelorette airs on ABC. Squired by 25 hopefuls at the start of the series, the competition had dwindled down to six suitors vying to be the lucky lady's soul mate by the time production commenced on an episode filmed at The Parker Meridien Palm Springs. As cameras rolled, the bachelorette moved in to one of the venue's 12 villas, while her band of ardent admirers unpacked their luggage in the Gene Autry House.
While only time will tell which romantic male will receive the coveted final rose, from now through September 16, 2008 couples who have already found their perfect match can enjoy a
special "Bachelorette"- inspired package at the luxury retreat.
During an overnight stay in one of the villas, couples can take a dip in one of the California retreat's two outdoor or two indoor pools, play croquet on the manicured lawn or a game of tennis on one of the clay courts. A romantic breakfast for two on the villa's private patio is included with the package.
For more information:• visit
www.theparkerpalmsprings.comLabels: USA
posted by Grace Sydney /Click for permalink 3:27 PM
6172008: Miami Beach's Sagamore Offers Tub for Two Package
Looking for a way to rekindle the flame... without ever leaving your room on vacation? Here's a package we just received from the Sagamore hotel in Miami Beach that's sure to heat up a summer visit:
The Package: The Tub for Two Romance Package includes:
- Champagne in room upon arrival
- Two-night stay in an Ocean View suite
- Couples massage at Rik Rak Spa Bungalow – at the Bungalow, in room or in a poolside cabana.
- Private, in-room dining experience from Social (Alcohol not included)
- Two personalized embroidered Sagamore Bathrobes
- Selection of bath salts
- Kama Sutra Intimacy Kit
Price: Rates begin at $1,390 per couple, based on double occupancy.
For More Information:• call 877.242.6673
• email reservations@sagamorehotel.com
• visit
http://sagamorehotel.com/Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:46 PM
6162008: Bicycle Built for Two Package in NYC
In this summer of looking for ways to save money while traveling, this package caught our eye: the "Bicycle Built for Two" Package from New York's Apple Core Hotels. During the month of July, the two of you can stay at any of Apple Core’s five hotels, eat lunch at Central Park’s Boathouse and bike for two hours through Central Park’s 843 acres -- all for under $300!
Dates: The “Bicycle Built for Two” package is available from July 1 through August 3, 2008.
The Price: The package starts at $279.99.
The Package: This package includes:
- Accommodations in the heart of New York City
- Two-hour bicycle rental for up to two guests in Central Park*
- Hot dog/french fries/soda combo for two at the Express Cafe at Central Park’s Boathouse Restaurant
- Complimentary breakfast and in-room coffee
*Bicycle rentals are available for exclusive use within Central Park, particularly on the six-mile loop shown on the accompanying map. The selection of 60 new bicycles includes: cruisers, 21-speed, children's, trailer, and tandem bicycles. This package only includes the rental of cruisers, children’s bikes, and trailers. Additional costs apply to the rental of 21-speed and tandem bikes. The Boathouse bicycle rental is located next to The Boathouse in the center of Central Park, just a short stroll from Fifth Avenue and 72nd Street.The Hotels: Apple Core Hotels’ properties include the La Quinta Inn Manhattan (17 West 32nd Street), Red Roof Inn Manhattan (6 West 32nd Street), the smoke-free Comfort Inn Midtown (129 West 46th Street), The Hotel at Times Square (59 West 46th Street), and the Ramada Inn East Side (161 Lexington Avenue).
For More Information:• call Apple Core Hotels at (800) 567-7720 and mention the “Bicycle Built for Two” package
• visit
www.applecorehotels.com/promos/bicycle and use package code “BICYCLE”
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 2:24 PM
642008: Sun Like a Celeb at Vegas's Venus Pool Club
Summers sizzle in Las Vegas and there's no better way to cool off than to head down to the pool. On the Strip, couples have a hip, adults-only oasis with a swanky atmosphere: the Venus Pool Club at Caesars Palace.
Offering food and beverage specialties and extravagant amenities and services, the pool makes the perfect place to play during the day, to prepare for a night on the town and to tan alongside celebrities. (Just which A-listers have been drawn to this hot spot? The cast of MTV’s The Hills, Mena Suvari, Jaime Pressley, Kim Kardashian, Wilmer Valderrama, Hailey Duff and Jack Osbourne, to name a few.)
With Sin City’s sexiest staff at your service, you'll find a full array of poolside options for an afternoon of fun around the Romanesque pool:
- an air-conditioned bar with flat screen TVs
- a live DJ spinning the hottest hits on weekends
- chic VIP cabanas
- chaise lounges
- posh VIP couches and day beds
Food & Beverage: Check out the menu with specialties such as the Colossal Lump Crab-Caprese Salad and Ahi Tuna Poke. In addition to the option of bottle service, delectable drink specialties such as Mango Mojitos and Tropical Fusion Sangria are available in pitchers and beers are offered by the bucket.
Staying Cool: It's easy to stay cool with frozen towels and fruit, Evian spritzers and select spa treatments courtesy of Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace. Venus’ swanky VIP cabanas offer shade and are equipped with plush furnishings, flat screen TV’s, fruit platters, a bottle of house champagne and fully stocked refrigerators. Guests are graced with helpful hosts who are pleased to provide the passports to Sin City’s sexiest nightspots such as PURE and LAX Nightclubs, seamlessly transcending one’s decadent daylife experience into a nightlife nirvana.
Just the Facts: Hours: Daily, 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Cover Price: Monday - Friday, Sunday $10 per guest; Saturday, $25 per guest . All guests must be at least 21 years of age with a valid ID.
Price for Cabanas: Mon - Thurs: $650 - $750, Fri - Sun: $750 - $1250 *Prices are subject to change depending on date
Price for Day Beds: Mon - Thurs: $200 - $250; Fri - Sun: $250 - $300 *Prices are subject to change depending on date
For More Information:• visit
www.purelv.comPhoto courtesy Caesars Palace Las Vegas Hotel & CasinoLabels: Las Vegas, USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 10:17 AM
5302008: San Francisco Hyatts Offering Committment Celebration Promotion
Both on San Francisco's beautiful waterfront, the Hyatt Regency San Francisco and Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf are celebrating the California Supreme Court's announcement that same-sex couples are officially allowed to marry in the state of California with the hotels' recently introduced Commitment Celebration Promotion.
Whether same sex couples are interested in tying the knot or simply enjoying the 2008 Pride festivities (www.sfpride.org) over the June 28 weekend, both Hyatt properties are offering special rates to accommodate those coming to the city named the #1 gay-friendly destination in the US and Canada by the Travel Industry Association Travel Survey.
The Hyatt Regency Package: The Hyatt Regency San Francisco's Commitment Celebration Promotion offers pre- and post-Pride rates starting at $259 per night, which are available Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, through August 31, 2008. In addition to securing the fresh newly refurbished VIP Regency Club Floor accommodations, guests will also have access to the exclusive Regency Club lounge, where complimentary meals and snacks are served throughout the day and the views are all over the place!
For more information:
• visit www.hyattregencysf.com
• call (415) 788-1234 or (800) 233-1234
The Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf Package: At the Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf, the special promotion is entitled the Amour Celebration Package. Starting at $179 and based on availability, the package includes:
- accommodations for two
- full American breakfast for two through in-room dining or Knuckles Restaurant
- bottle of Champagne
- chocolate covered strawberries
- turndown service (on request)
- late checkout of 2:00 p.m. (on request)
For more information:
• visit http://fishermanswharf.hyatt.com
• call (415) 563-1234 or (800) 233-1234
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:24 PM
05202008: Charleston Hotel Celebrates with 10th Anniversary Package
Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Wentworth Mansion® is a 21-room AAA Five Diamond-rated hotel in downtown Charleston, South Carolina. We've just received word this elegant hotel is offering a new package with 10 exclusive indulgences: The The 10 Luxuries Package, priced for two guests, includes:
1) One night in a Mansion Room, featuring a king bed, marble fireplace and bath with oversized Jacuzzi tub and separate shower
2) Dinner at on-site AAA Four Diamond, Mobil Four Star restaurant Circa 1886
3) A couples massage at the Spa at the Wentworth Mansion®
4) A private carriage ride through historic downtown Charleston courtesy of Palmetto Carriage Company
5) Breakfast in bed
6) A guided tour of the Mansion and its cupola with 360-degree views of the city
7) A fresh flower arrangement from
Tiger Lily florist and champagne in room upon check-in
8) Turndown with Circa 1886 house-made chocolate truffles
9) A basket of all-natural bath products courtesy of AlchemistsApprentice.com, an online apothecary offering all-natural beauty products
10) Two plush robes and slippers
Price: The package is available for $1000 for the first night and $400 for each additional night, including tax and gratuity.
Dates: The 10 Luxuries Package, priced for two guests, will be offered Sunday through Friday from June 9 through Aug. 28. The package is not available on June 13, 20, July 4 or Aug. 22.
Why It's Dreamy: Elegant rooms and expansive suites feature gas-lit fireplaces with their original marble mantels, king-size sleigh beds with European linens, inlaid design floors, whirlpool tubs and double, glass-walled walk-in showers. Guests can relax at the Spa at the Wentworth Mansion®, a full-service on-site day spa, enjoy a 360- degree view of the city from the hotel's rooftop cupola or dine on sophisticated Southern cuisine with a twist at Circa 1886 on the hotel grounds.
For more information:
• call 1(888) 466-1886
• visit www.wentworthmansion.com
Photo courtesy The Wentworth Mansion
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 11:28 AM
5212008: Poconos Offers Gas Buster Packages
As we watch gas prices continue to climb, we're seeing more and more innovative packages to help travelers caught in the crunch. Here's a roundup of several packages we just received from the Poconos Mountains Region, a romantic area in northeastern Pennsylvania that's just a short drive from many major US cities.
Caesar’s Pocono Resorts’ Top Off and GoGuests booking a two-night stay will receive $100 cash in conjunction with the Top Off and Go promotional package from Caesars Pocono Resorts. The package includes a luxurious suite, breakfast-in-bed, all-you-can-eat dinner and live nightly entertainment.
Price: Package rates start at $180 per person per night.
Dates: Available through December 27, 2008 at Cove Haven Resort (Lakeville, PA), Paradise Stream Resort (Mount Pocono, PA) and Pocono Palace Resort (Marshall’s Creek, PA).
For more information:
• Call 888-963-3052
• visit www.caeserspoconoresorts.com
East Shore Lodging’s Midweek Summer Gas Rebate GetawayLocated on the banks of Lake Wallenpaupack, East Shore Lodging offers a midweek getaway this summer with a $50 gas card. The two-night package includes: a King Suite with private deck; continental breakfast for two each morning; two one-hour, in-room massages; two tickets for an hour-long ride on a Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tour; dinner for two guests one night at a choice of restaurants; and a $50 gas card.
Price: Package rates start at $519 for two nights, midweek, based on double occupancy.
Dates: Offer valid June 2-19, June 23-August 28, 2008
For more information:
• call 877-226-8226
• visit www.eastshorelodging.com
The French Manor’s Tanks-A-Lot PackageThe French Manor, an enchanting stone chateau situated atop Huckleberry Mountain in South Sterling, wants to say "Tanks-A-Lot" to guests staying two or more nights midweek with a $50 gift card that can be used towards a tank of gas. The Tanks-A-Lot package includes lodging in a guestroom or suite, complimentary fruit and cheese platter with a decanter of sherry in room upon arrival, turn-down service with Godiva chocolates each night and a full country breakfast each morning. When booking, guests must ask for the Tanks-A-Lot package by name.
Price: Packages start at $330, based on double occupancy
Dates: This package is valid midweek in 2008 with any Bed and Breakfast package rate. Not valid on weekends or holidays or with any other promotion.
For more information:
• Call 877-720-6090
• visit www.thefrenchmanor.com
Mountaintop Lodge’s Gas Buster BonusGuests presenting a same-day gas receipt will receive a $10 refund for each night booked at Mountaintop Lodge, located in Pocono Pines. This charming bed and breakfast has an outdoor pool, 18-hole golf course, tennis courts and a nearby lake for swimming and boating. The refund will be given in the form of a check upon check-in; guests must mention the special at the time of booking and present a same-day gas receipt to receive the benefit.
Dates: Offer expires June 30, 2008; does not apply to reservations made prior to April 24, 2008. Not valid holidays or for corporate or extended stays.
For more information:
• Call 877-646-6636
• visit www.mountaintoplodge.com
For More on the Poconos:• visit
www.800poconos.com• call 800-POCONOS (800-762-6667)
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 2:33 PM
52020081: Top Budget Destinations for Summer 2008
We all love lists and here's one with an extra reason to love it: travel on a budget. Since everyone has an eye on the budget these days, this list (in no particular order) by Pauline Frommer, series editor of Pauline Frommer's Travel Guides, is especially helpful!
Berkeley Springs, West VirginiaAmerica's first spa town--even George Washington came to take the waters here!--is still a very affordable spot to get pampered. At the historic Bath House in Berkeley Springs State Park (tel. 304/258-2711), a soak in 102-degree thermal waters and a Swedish massage starts at just $40. Berkeley Springs offers quaint shops, horseback riding, golf, excellent hiking (in nearby Capacon Resort State Park) and, of course, lots of history.
How much will it cost? Area accommodations start at $70 (down to $45 in nearby Martinsburg), and even less if you camp.
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, MinnesotaOne million acres of wilderness traversed by 1,300 miles of canoe-able waters makes this spectacularly beautiful area a top pick for nature lovers and anglers. Experienced outdoors people simply grab a canoe, a fishing license, a camping permit, supplies, a tent and go.
How much will it cost? Fishing licenses run $17-$24 while a camping permit (which is done by lottery) averages $44 per group. For novices, local outfitters like the Rockwood Lodge (tel. 800/942-2922 or 218/388-2242) in Grand Marais will supply all equipment and food for 2 to 4 adults for 5 days for $342. Other reputable outfitters and tour companies include Wilderness Outfitters (tel. 800/777-8572 or 218/365-3211) and Gunflint Northwoods Outfitters (tel. 888/226-6346 or 218/388-2296).
Midcoast of Maine (Rockland, Maine)Rough and tumble Rockland now boasts a blossoming arts scene, helmed by the superb Farnsworth Museum (a top-notch collection of American art with works by Maine natives Andrew Wyeth and Louise Nevelson). You'll also find a slew of small galleries and a fine dining scene spearheaded by an enterprising group of Culinary Institute of America grads. Rockland is one of the two top harbors in Maine for Windjammer cruises; kayaking is terrific, too. Since it is so centrally located, it's a good jumping-off point for visits to pricier resort areas like Kennebunkport, Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, and Camden.
How much will it cost? Rockland offers a wealth of mom-and-pop motels and cute little inns; it's not difficult to find places to stay here, in the peak of high season, for as little as $85 a night.
The Wisconsin DellsIf the two of you are ready to vacation like kids again, let's hear it for "The Waterpark Capital of the World!" More than 20 waterpark resorts soak visitors in this scenic city on the Wisconsin River. That comes to more than 200 waterslides combined, as well as watercoasters, ocean-wave simulators, raft rides, and extreme tubing for all ages. The Dells is also a golfing, fishing, and rock-climbing hot spot.
How much will it cost? Room rates at the big resorts can be steep but less expensive motels abound, with rates starting at just $40 per night. Day passes to the larger waterparks are usually around $30 to $35; check the website of the Visitor & Convention Bureau for complete listings and links to area parks.
The Oregon Coast, including Willamette ValleyThe choice for romantics: Inland lies Willamette Valley, a winery-laden mecca for oenephiles and foodies (and a much cheaper vino experience than Napa). Towards the sea is a misty, beautiful coastline dotted with lighthouses and historic towns (such as Astoria, the oldest community west of the Mississippi River). Highlights include the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area; Yachats, an artistic community with excellent eats and un-crowded beaches; and along the coast, spectacular fishing, wildlife viewing, and leisurely beachcombing and kite-flying.
How much will it cost? An Oregon Pacific Coast Passport (tel. 800/551-6949) grants access to all of the state and federal parks and recreation areas for only $10 for a 5-day pass or $35 for an annual pass. Many area accommodations are moderately priced from $75 a night, cheaper if you camp.
The Dominican RepublicThe Dominican Republic is the king of the affordably priced, all-inclusive package destinations, especially during the summertime when all Caribbean isles slash prices to lure visitors. SuperClubs' Breezes Puerto Plata Resort, Spa & Casino offers package deals that include accommodations, all meals and premium brand cocktails, unlimited use of sports facilities, and hotel taxes, with no tipping allowed.
How much will it cost? A recent price check yielded rates of $70 per night per person from June to August. Also, CheapCaribbean.com has a selection of all-inclusive packages starting from as low as $499 per person for 5 nights.
Newfoundland, CanadaNewfoundland remains an almost criminally overlooked destination in Canada. This craggy island, known as "The Rock," offers some of the country's best views in the summertime, when you can spot icebergs, puffins, and whales off the Bonavista Peninsula. St. John's is a small, bustling city makes a good jumping-off point for exploring the foggy Avalon Peninsula, home to puffin colonies and caribou herds. And Gros Morne National Park (a World Heritage Site) offers excellent bird-watching, fishing, and hiking
How much will it cost? Campground fees range from $18 to $30; call 877/737-3783 or 514/335-4813 to reserve a site. To save the most, avoid conventional hotels and stay instead in the tiny B&Bs that dot the region and sometimes charge as little as $50 a night.
The Mayan Riviera, MexicoSparkling white sand beaches, cerulean waters, Mayan ruins, and dozens of water sport opportunities have long made the Mayan Riviera a "go to" place for fun in the sun. In the past several years, a Hurricane Wilma-driven makeover has turned it into a playground for chic, luxury seekers as well. The sheer volume of hotels and condos on this coast keeps competition stiff.
How much will it cost? Air/hotel packagers are getting deals individuals can rarely match. Vacation Travel Mart is selling a full 5 nights/6 days at the Grand Oasis, including all food and drink, most activities and airfare from the U.S. from just $724. In certain lesser known areas, like the beautifully preserved Colonial city of Campeche, hotel prices drop to just $45 a night.
PeruPeru is a country with a surplus of great adventures, many of them an excellent value for the money. From Cusco, a scenic train journey can take you to Puno and Lake Titicaca, where you can visit the floating islands of Uros on a day trip ($12) or enjoy a cultural immersion by staying overnight with a family ($15). The most elegant city in the county is perhaps Arequipa, known for its white volcanic stone buildings and a worthwhile jumping-off point for an excursion to the Colca Valley to observe giant condors. Southern Peru is a top surfing destination, and the Peruvian jungle is not to be missed--enter in the north via Iquitos, near some of the Amazon's best lodges.
How much will it cost? For those interested in the famed Machu Picchu, local companies such as Peru Treks will take you on an all-inclusive 4-day trek for as little as $300; American-based companies such as Adventure Center offer 7-day Cuzco and Machu Picchu tours for $595. Accommodations across Peru are largely budget priced ($30 a night on average), thanks to the backpacker hordes.
BulgariaThe strength of the euro has made much of Europe a budget-buster for American travelers, but it's also an opportunity to explore less heavily touristed areas of the continent--such as Bulgaria. Bulgaria, Europe's oldest state (established in 681), doesn't yet have much of a tourism infrastructure, but it's quite safe and boasts ancient monasteries and beautifully preserved medieval villages along with affordable spas and Black Sea beach resorts. Visit the country's tourism agency at
www.bulgariatravel.org.
How much will it cost? Accommodations usually range from $50 to $100 for budget B&Bs and guesthouses and full Mediterranean meals can be had for just $6 or $7,
Labels: Europe, South America, USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 11:52 AM
5142008: Colorado's Beaver Creek Lodge Offers Couples Package
Beaver Creek Lodge, Beaver Creek's AAA Four-Diamond and the Valley's only luxury all-suite boutique hotel, is offering a "He Said, She Said" package especially for couples throughout 2008. The package includes complimentary valet parking and a late check-out (when available).
The Package: This romantic travel package includes:
- Deluxe accommodations for two
- Signature "His and Hers" Martinis or other Signature Cocktails in Rocks Modern Grill
- One round of 18 holes, green cart fee, booked tee time and golf balls -- for him -- at Red Sky Ranch
- Allegria Day Spa Deep Tissue Massage -- for her
- Access to on-site aqua center and fitness facility
- Choice of in-room movie
- Breakfast for two "between the sheets"
Price: During off-peak season, the package price if you opt for the Red Sky Golf Course is from $704; if you choose the Beaver Creek Golf Course, the price is from $598.
For more information:• visit
www.beavercreeklodge.net • call (970) 845-9800
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 9:00 AM
5072008: Sex & The City Package at Mandarin Oriental, New York
The movie premier is just days away but the celebration of the new "Sex and the City" movie will continue through the end of the year at the five-star Mandarin Oriental, New York. The sophisticated hotel is offering a "Sex and the City Celebration Package" perfect for channeling your inner Carrie--or Samantha, Miranda or Charlotte.
The Package: This Manhattan getaway package starts with check-in to a guestroom or suite at the Mandarin Oriental then includes:
- a $200 gift card to famed specialty department store Henri Bendel -- a favorite haunt of Carrie Bradshaw's and the show's stylist/costume designer Patricia Field.
- the Sex and the City Hotspots tour via limousine, courtesy of On Location Tours. Guides divulge behind-the-scenes stories from the days of filming the series and review secrets about the movie. The tour highlights some of the show's top locations, including the brownstone that played Carrie Bradshaw's home, brunch location Pastis, exclusive SoHo House and more. Also featured is a stop at Henri Bendel with a personal shopper leading the way.
- At the store, guests will receive a gift from intimate apparel designer Cosabella, who has launched a "Sex and the City" lingerie collection inspired by the show's four main characters.
- The tour also includes an opportunity to follow in Carrie Bradshaw's footsteps with a stop at Jimmy Choo's Madison Avenue boutique.
- After shopping, guests can relax and people watch over a complimentary round of Sex and the City-inspired cocktails in the hotel's Lobby Lounge. Choose their drink of choice from a special cocktail menu that includes the Mr. Big Apple Martini, the Carrie Cosmo, Miranda's Manhattan and the Flirtini Samantha-style.
- As a take-home memento, the package includes a complimentary Sex and the City Trivia game that recaptures the fun-filled adventures and details from the six-year series.
Dates: The Sex and the City Celebration Package is valid to December 31, 2008.
Price: Rates range from $2,000 for one night in a Hudson River View Room, to $3,000 for one night in a Central Park View Suite. Additional nights of accommodation may be booked at prevailing rates. Package rates do not include tax and service charges. A minimum of a week in advance is required for booking. This package is subject to availability.
Details of inclusions: This package includes one night's accommodation, private On Location tour for up to five people, Sex and the City Trivia game, up to two complimentary Sex and the City-inspired cocktails in the hotel's Lobby Lounge, one $200 Henri Bendel gift card and a VIP gift bag from Cosabella at Henri Bendel.
Reservations:• call (212) 805 8800 or toll-free +1 (866) 801 8880
• email monyc-reservations@mohg.com
For More Information:• visit
www.mandarinoriental.comSex & The City-inspired cocktails photo courtesy Mandarin Oriental, New YorkLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 9:53 AM
04072008: Embassy Suites-Waikiki Offers Romance Package
Hawaii's a natural destination for lovers and here's a new package aimed especially at romantic travelers. Embassy Suites-Waikiki Beach Walk is now offering the "Suite Romance" package.
The Package: With the package, couples enjoy a full menu of romantic extras:
• an upscale partial ocean view suite
• a relaxing couples
lomilomi (Hawaiian massage) massage
• a special gift that includes a pineapple sweet and sour sugar scrub and a bottle of Hawaii-made massage oil
• one of Embassy Suite's complimentary signature desserts at Roy's Waikiki or Ruth's Chris Steak House at Waikiki Beach Walk
Rates: The Suite Romance package starts at $339 per night. Enter promotional code: LUV when making reservations at
www.EmbassySuitesWaikiki.com or over the phone at 1-800-EMBASSY.
Dates: The package is available through December 21, 2008.
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 4:25 PM
3262008: Florida's Inn on Fifth Offers Romance Package
In Naples, Florida, there are plenty of good reasons to love summer, from the nonstop excitment of this jetset city to the fact that summer brings lower hotel prices compared to peak winter months.
Now there's another good reason to love warm weather months in Naples: the romance package offered by Inn on Fifth. With its intimate charm and elegant ambiance, the Inn on Fifth is the perfect setting for a storybook romance.
The Package: The Romance Package includes:
· Two Nights Accommodations with a private patio
· Complimentary Room Upgrade (upon availability)
· Couples Massage at the Spa on Fifth
· Champagne and Chocolate in Room
· Complimentary Breakfast Each Morning
Price: Prices starting at $513. Packages prices vary depending on season and do not include tax. Reservations are based on availability. A two-night minimum stay is required. Package rates are not available on some Holiday Weekends.
Why It's Dreamy: Surrounded by the chic bistros, unique studios and high-fashion shops of renown Fifth Avenue South, this landmark inn combines Mediterranean archways, private terraces, lavish fountains and an intimate atmosphere. The inn is home to Truluck's, featuring fresh seafood, steaks and stonecrab claws.
For More Information:• visit
www.innonfifth.comPhoto courtesy Inn on FifthLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 1:18 PM
3172008: Chesterfield Palm Beach Offers Sweethearts' Package
Florida's Chesterfield Palm Beach has announced a new package for romantics. This Sweethearts' package includes:
· Two days / One night in a romantic Junior Suite
· Welcome Gift from The Chesterfield
· Complimentary Continental Breakfast in your room
· List of the "12 Most Romantic Places to Kiss in Palm Beach"
· Romantic Interlude Dinner in the Leopard Lounge and Restaurant
· Champagne, fruit, and chocolate-covered strawberries at turndown
Price: The Sweethearts' Package is priced from $680 through December 15, 2008. This package is based on double occupancy, exclusive of taxes and gratuities, and subject to availability.
Why It's Dreamy: Located in the heart of Palm Beach, The Chesterfield Hotel is steps from world-famous Worth Avenue and the Atlantic Ocean. It features 53 luxurious guest rooms and suites, the Leopard Lounge and Restaurant, a tropical pool area, and intimate library.
For more information:• visit
www.chesterfieldpb.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 1:32 PM
342008: New Bachelorette Package at JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa
Looking for a bachelorette getaway? Vegas is an increasingly popular destination for bachelorette parties thanks to the around the clock fun and wide variety of activities in the city. Twenty minutes from the Strip, the JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort and Spa offers the quiet of a garden getaway but the convenience of Vegas when you're ready. They've just announced a new bachelorette package based on a group of four.
The Package: Day One: The fun begins with an airport pick up that whisks you away to your perfect two-bedroom suite. Choose from a welcoming gift of high tea, champagne and chocolate decadence, or pick girlfriend robes for everyone. Don’t forget the $400 dinner credit at Shizen.
Day Two: Start the next morning right with a breakfast buffet in Ceres and then relax poolside enjoying some quiet reflection or catch up on the latest gossip in the comfort of your own private cabana. After lunch at the pool, enjoy six hours with a personal driver and car service to take you power shopping, sightseeing and a show, either the crowd-pleasing “Mamma Mia” or “Spamalot.”
Day Three: Start with breakfast in Ceres before a private morning fitness class.
Then it’s time to say ahhh! Spa Day in the fabulous Aquae Sulis Spa includes two treatments, with your choice of massage and facial. Lunch is outdoors by the spa pool, followed by afternoon Wine Down Pedicures including a special cheese plate and wine for all. And don't forget the chick flicks! Dinner is in-room, served up with a movie and snacks. Selections are allowed up to a $400 food and beverage credit.
Day Four: After breakfast on day 4, it’s time to be transported to the airport and back to the real world.
Price: The Bachelorettes Are Us Package starts at $4,248. All packages are subject to availability and are based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted. Tax and gratuity are not included.
For more information:• call 702-869-7717
• visit
www.jwlasvegasresort.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:58 PM
2242008: RockResorts Launches Green Weddings
We’re seeing more "green hotels" these days, properties that are making a serious effort to be eco-friendly in terms of everything from rooms to restaurants. We just received word that RockResorts, a luxury hotel company that emphasizes the natural settings of its resort locations, is launching a brand-wide “Green Weddings” initiative beginning this summer. From the majestic mountains of Vail to the authentic adobes of Santa Fe, the two of you will now be able to say “I Do” at a RockResort without saying “I Don’t” to Mother Nature.
Green Options: The “Green Weddings” offerings at RockResorts will give you plenty of options from initial planning until the last guest leaves the reception including:
• Suggestions for recycled paper invitations and creatively designed electronic “save the date” announcements
• Resources for the future bride and groom covering preferred vendors for wedding dresses, tuxedos, bridesmaid dresses, etc.
• Opportunities to partner with an environmental non-profit, such as the National Forest Foundation so the two of you can donate money in lieu of extra extravagances such as a Viennese table or cordial bar.
• Availability of environmentally-friendly car, limo and shuttle service to and from the airport and during the wedding and other related events
• Natural, indigenous spa treatments for the wedding party
• Access to community-based volunteer projects in the surrounding region for family and guests to partake in.
• Stylists that use natural/organic cosmetics and health care products
• Preferred photographers that solely use hi-res digital photography
• Use of cleaner-burning soy candles during the ceremony
• Resources for vendors that offer organic flower petal confetti and organic flowers that the bride and groom can use throughout the reception
• Eco-friendly table centerpieces
• Organic wines and beers, focusing on unique regional and local offerings
• The use of organic and locally-grown and produced food for menu options
• Organic wedding cake and other confections
• Suggestions on eco-friendly wedding favors
The various eco-friendly offerings mentioned above for the RockResorts “Green Weddings” program may vary depending on what resort you choose.
Environmentally Engaged Program: Not ready to tie the knot just yet? RockResorts is also offering an “Environmentally Engaged” program for those who are still on their way to tying the green knot. Couples planning their ceremony at any of the properties will be guided by the hotel’s event planning staff and supplied with green wedding planning resources that include various eco-friendly tips, such as information on vendors who supply environmentally-friendly wedding gowns and tuxedos, photographers and entertainment.
Why It’s Dreamy: RockResorts are casually elegant properties with plenty of luxe facilities such as RockResorts Spas™, renowned golf courses, award-winning dining and a variety of outdoor adventures.
The RockResorts collection includes Hotel Jerome in Aspen, Colo.; The Pines Lodge in Beaver Creek, Colo.; Keystone Lodge & Spa in Keystone, Colo.; The Arrabelle at Vail Square in Vail, Colo.; The Lodge & Spa at Cordillera in the Vail Valley, Colo.; The Lodge at Vail in Vail, Colo.; La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa in Santa Fe, N.M.; Snake River Lodge & Spa in Jackson Hole, Wyo.; and The Landings St. Lucia, Rodney Bay, St. Lucia.
Future RockResorts include; Eleven Biscayne Hotel & Spa in Miami, Fla. (scheduled to open in 2009); The Chateau at Heavenly Village in Lake Tahoe, Cali. (scheduled to open in 2009); One Ski Hill Place in Breckenridge, Colo. (scheduled to open in winter 2009/2010); and Rum Cay, A RockResort Hotel & Spa in Rum Cay, The Bahamas (scheduled to open in 2010).
For More Information:• visit the
RockResorts website • visit the
wedding section of the RockResorts websitePhoto courtesy RockResortsLabels: Caribbean, USA, weddings
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 12:56 PM
2062008: Keystone Lodge & Spa Offers Free Spa Treatment
What could be better after an afternoon on the slopes than a free massage? There may be no such thing as a free lunch, but at Keystone Lodge & Spa, A RockResort in Keystone, Colorado, there IS such a thing as a free massage!
This winter, guests staying three nights at the AAA Four Diamond Award-winning Keystone Lodge & Spa will be rewarded with a free 50-minute spa treatment of your choice at the resort’s newly-enhanced and environmentally-friendly RockResorts Spa.
Price: Rates start at $209 per night for this offer based on double occupancy.
Dates: This special free massage offer is valid now through April 13, 2008. Blackout dates apply. Tax, gratuity, and parking are not included.
Why It's Dreamy: The 10,000-square-foot, 10-room RockResorts Spa opened in November 2007 and is 100 percent powered by wind. It features organic products, indigenous ingredients, natural light and a number of other elements that connect the spa to its mountain surroundings. It is one of the first spas in the country to commit to renewable energy sources. Signature treatments include the unique three-hour ritual called Li-Tya (Dreaming) which includes a full Mala Mayi body wrap, Paudi head massage, Miji Jina foot session, Kodo body therapy, Mirri facial and Miji Polma hand treatment.
Keystone is home to three mountains with distinctive experiences for snowriders – groomed trails for carving on Dercum Mountain, big bumps on North Peak and deep powder and gladed terrain on Keystone’s Outback. Adventure seekers also can hike to the steeps and glades of the Windows or get on board for a guided snowcat tour to Bergman and Erickson bowls for untouched powder. Keystone boasts one of the largest night skiing/riding operations in the country, as well as one of the largest night parks. Off the slopes, Keystone offers great dining, shopping, entertainment, and nightlife.
For more information:• visit
www.rockresorts.com or
www.keystoneresort.com• call 866-455-ROCK (7625) OR 877-753-9786
Photo courtesy Keystone Lodge & Spa, A RockResortLabels: spa, USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 11:39 AM
2022008: Discovery Cove Offers Last Minute Valentine's Package
It's not too late to snag a romantic Valentine's package to make the day truly memorable! Orlando's Discovery Cove® has three Valentine's packages with spaces still available the week of February 11 and packages valid through February 29, 2008.
The Packages:Valentine's Honey PackageThis sweet deal includes a souvenir 6 x 8 photo and frame; boxed chocolates; and a keepsake buoy with a personalized message delivered to your honey by one of Discovery Cove's Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. Price: starting at $74.95
Valentine's Sweetheart PackageThe two of you can upgrade to the Sweetheart Package to enjoy the souvenir photo and frame, chocolates, and dolphin "love note" delivery, plus a private cabana overlooking the Dolphin Lagoon, a bottle of champagne, and two souvenir toasting flutes. Price: $149.95
Valentine's Romance PackageThe Romance Package gives guests the ultimate experience, combining Honey and Sweetheart package amenities with a champagne chiller, one dozen red roses, and a souvenir DVD of your Discovery Cove® experience. Price: $299.95
Details: Be sure to note that package prices are in addition to park admission and require the purchase of at least one dolphin-swim package. Park admission during February is $269 (plus tax) for a dolphin-swim package, and just $169 (plus tax) for a non-dolphin swim package.
Why It's Dreamy: Located in the heart of Orlando, Discovery Cove® provides a secluded, tropical retreat for only 1,000 guests per day. Here couples can enjoy once-in-a-lifetime adventures together through up-close encounters with exotic marine life and other animals. In the Ray Lagoon, couples have unlimited time to snorkel, swim and wade hand-in-hand among hundreds of cownose and southern rays. The Coral Reef provides an incredible underwater playground full of thousands of colorful, tropical fish and other marine life. In the free-flight aviary, shady walkways lead through a lush jungle where guests can observe and hand-feed more than 250 exotic birds. The park also has sandy beaches, a winding river and a pool.
The centerpiece of the park is the dolphin interaction. Here, guests learn about, play with and ride alongside a bottlenose dolphin. Each visitor enjoys up-close interactions, such as kissing, petting and feeding the gentle dolphins ˆ for most guests, a dream come true. With each of the Valentine's packages, a dolphin will help you make a lasting impression by personally delivering a "love note" buoy to your sweetheart.
With only 1,000 guests per day, couples can spread out to enjoy the all-inclusive benefits of a full continental breakfast, freshly-prepared lunch, all snacks and beverages throughout the day. Admission also includes the use of all park amenities such as snorkel gear, towels, lockers and parking, as well as a seven-day, unlimited-use pass to either SeaWorld Orlando or Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
For More Information:• call 1-877-4-DISCOVERY
• visit
DiscoveryCove.comLabels: USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 9:04 PM
1232008: Fairmont Announces Holidates for New Valentine's Couples
Are you a new couple looking for a unique romantic idea this Valentine's? Something besides roses and a candlelight dinner for two? How about a Holidate?
You may be thinking it's far too early for all that multi-day, 24-hour, shared-bathroom intimacy. How will we fill our days? Will we tire of each other? Should I reserve two rooms? And once we’re there, how do I take romance beyond a bunch of long-stemmed roses to make this a date to remember?
Relax. Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has packaged a series of romantic dating sojourns and called them Holidates. Just for lovers, these packages are tailored to overcoming the trials and tribulations of new love. Questions are answered with a tally of tips, lists of dos and don’ts, and sample itineraries guaranteed to fan the flames of love.
Each Holidate plays off each property's romantic attractions and beautiful surroundings.
Sample Packages: A sampling of Holidates with rates from $259 to $1,435 per couple include:
• The
Icebreaker holidate at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac offers the cool choice of Ice Climbing or visiting the Ice Hotel, a romantic dinner and breakfast in bed.
• The
Fairmont Copley Plaza’s Sizzle in the City holidate features Champagne and exclusive lounge access for getting to know each another. Advance consultation with the Fairmont Gold Concierge helps orchestrate a weekend guaranteed to impress.
• The
Drunk with Love holidate at The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa offers limo transportation, a gorgeous suite with rose-petal turndown, high altitude hot air ballooning and more.
• The
Fairmont Chicago’s Wooed In the Windy City holidate offers a swanky suite, exclusive couples spa treatments in a private setting and the ultra-sexy Kama Sutra turndown.
For More Information:• visit
www.fairmont.com/promotions/holidatesLabels: Canada, USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 2:58 PM
01102008: Valentine's Package at Two Bunch Palms
Heat things up this Valentine's Day at Desert Hot Springs, California where Two Bunch Palms Resort & Spa is offering a romantic package with 14 indulgent essentials. The resort, located at natural hot springs, is offering the three-night stay which includes several spa treatments both for the couple and individually, a four-course dinner, Champagne, strawberries, roses, massage oil and more to help you set the mood for your romantic getaway.
The Package: Renowned for its innovative spa offerings and experienced therapists, Two Bunch Palms lets loved ones immerse themselves in some of the spa’s most enticing treatments with the “You’re the 1-4 Me” package, including:
• A Pagoda Swedish Massage for Two (60 minutes) A traditional oil massage utilizing long, flowing strokes
• A Watsu “A Deux” for Two (60 minutes) A gentle Shiatsu treatment, performed in a private, warm mineral water pool, where the body is cradled and stretched in the supporting arms of the therapist
• A Mud & Sun for Two (30 minutes) A private, individual mud bath, followed by time under the warm desert sun and an invigorating hot mineral shower
• An Deep Cleansing Facial for Two (75 minutes) A facial massage, steam hydration, deep cleansing, extractions and a neck, shoulder, hand and foot massage using skin-smoothing and rejuvenating enzyme serums and emulsions
• A Body Facial for One (90 minutes) An exfoliating scrub, a rinse, and a soothing, oiled massage, followed by a peppermint peel
• An Ayurvedic Massage for One (60 minutes) A highly-specialized, synchronized massage featuring two therapists using essential oils, specifically blended according to the client’s dosha, or body type, which are poured along energetic pathways and massaged into the body
And beyond the deeply soothing spa treatments, the “You’re the 1-4 Me” package further seduces with:
• A Casanova four-course dinner for two, including a bottle of wine, in the onsite dining room
• A 14 red velvet rose arrangement with a personalized card
• One bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne
• One dozen chocolate-covered strawberries
• An Energy Muse “Love” necklace and bracelet set
• An Archipelago scented candle
• One 8-ounce bottle of Elizabeth Van Buren massage oil
Price: The price for the “You’re the 1-4 Me” package is dependent on room choice, and starts at $2,699 (spa gratuities not included).
Why It's Dreamy: Two Bunch Palms Resort & Spa, a 56-acre natural hot mineral springs desert oasis, features suites and villas, a California-cuisine restaurant and a world-renowned spa with more than 45 treatments. A natural lithium mineral hot spring grotto flows through the heart of the property, surrounded by both landscaped gardens and preserved wilderness areas.
For more information:• call (800) 472-4334
• visit
www.twobunchpalms.comLabels: USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 2:53 PM
12282007: Valentine's Package at Denver's Brown Palace Hotel
Downtown Denver's The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa has several romantic offerings this season:
Romantic History Tours: Dating back 115 years, Denver's The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa has seen its share of love stories and now the hotel invites couples to take a ride on the hotel's century-long emotional roller coaster with the "Affairs of the Heart" Historical Tour. Led by The Brown Palace's resident historian, Julia Kanellos, the historical tours will include tales of love, devotion and heartache from the landmark hotel's colorful past. During the tours, visitors will hear stories about hotel founder Henry C. Brown, who at 74 took a 22-year-old for his third wife; deeply romantic couples like Lowell and Frances Thomas, and President Ike and Mamie Eisenhower; the shocking affairs of Isabelle "Sassy" Springer and Mrs. Louise Crawford Hill; World War II love stories, and more. Available Feb. 13, 14 and 16, 2008, the tours are free to the public and start at 1 p.m., making it convenient for guests to enjoy lunch at one of the hotel's signature restaurants before the tour. Reservations are required.
Valentine's Packages: If the two of you would like to make a little romantic history of your own, check out the hotel's Valentine's Day packages. Beginning at $239, the Light Up the Night romance package includes an overnight stay in one of the hotel's world-famous guest rooms; breakfast for two delivered by room service or at Ellyngton's Restaurant; two evening cocktails in the breathtaking atrium; and signature rose-petal turndown.
A lavish spa treatment in the Spa at The Brown makes a perfect add-on for any package. The Champagne Kiss, starting at $620, takes place in the Spa's deluxe couples' suite, and comes complete with rose petals and a tandem candle-lit massage, followed by a decadent chocolate body polish and champagne soak. For a finishing touch, couple's sip chilled champagne and enjoy chocolate-covered strawberries. Starting at $320, the Be My Valentine package also takes place in the Spa's magnificent couples' suite. Sprinkled in rose petals to set the mood, couples receive a tandem candle-lit massage followed by an aromatic Artesian Plunge. Couples also sip chilled champagne and enjoy chocolate-covered strawberries.
For a special treat, enjoy traditional afternoon tea in the atrium lobby or dinner at the Palace Arms, and have long stem roses delivered from The Brown Palace's own Flower Shop.
For more information:• call (303) 297-3111, (800) 321-2599
• visit
The Brown PalaceLabels: USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 10:10 AM
12212007: Complimentary Hawaiian Vow Renewal Ceremony
Looking for a way to make this Valentine's Day really memorable? Think about a vow renewal. We've done several and they're memorable and special ways to remember the day (and without the paperwork hassles you had the first time around!)
We've learned that Outrigger Reef and Outrigger Waikiki properties in Hawaii will be offering free vow renewals this Valentine's! Here are the details:
Open to registered guests only of the two hotels, this annual affirmation of love and commitment is a culturally rich and romantic ceremony scheduled for Thursday, February 14, 2008, on the sands of idyllic Waikiki Beach fronting the Outrigger Reef hotel. There is no charge for this special program, but advance reservations are required and are on a first come, first served basis.
The Ceremony: Outrigger's Hawaiian Vow Renewal Ceremony draws upon an ancient Hawaiian custom, Ho'ao Pa'a, in which a man and woman were bound in lasting union. The event will begin with the blowing of the conch shell, followed by a welcoming Hawaiian chant by the kahu (priest), traditional hula and song. Couples will also be blessed by a gentle sprinkling of sea water before they recite their vows in the Hawaiian language.
In addition, each participating couple will receive a complimentary photo, commemorative certificate by which to remember the day, champagne toast and island-style lei (garlands).
How to Sign Up: Sign-up will begin January 14, 2008, at the Outrigger Reef and Outrigger Waikiki's concierge desks for those guests holding confirmed reservations at the two beachfront hotels over Valentine's Day. Concierge may also be reached at 808-923-0711 at the Outrigger Waikiki, or 808-923-3111 at the Outrigger Reef. For more information, contact Luana Maitland, events and activities manager at the Outrigger Reef on the Beach, at 808-924-6007.
Room Reservations: Room reservations and information about special room packages are available by calling toll free 800-OUTRIGGER (1-800-688-7444) within the United States, Guam and Canada. Outrigger's toll-free number is available internationally via AT&T's Direct 800 Service. Elsewhere call direct to 303-369-7777 (long distance charges apply), or visit
www.outriggerreef.com or
www.outriggerwaikiki.com.
Why It's Dreamy: The oceanfront anchor of the new Waikiki Beach Walk, Outrigger Reef on the Beach is ideally situated between beautiful Waikiki Beach and exciting Waikiki. Currently undergoing a $100 million makeover, the project is being completed in multiple phases to ensure the continued comfort of guests. On property are a wide array of restaurants, shops and services including a 5,000-square-foot day spa. The adjacent Waikiki Beach Walk is Oahu's newest entertainment destination, home to shops, boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and accommodations spanning a nearly 8-acre area in Waikiki.
Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach is a deluxe and gracious Hawaiian hotel located directly on the sands of world-famous Waikiki Beach in the heart of exciting Waikiki. The 525-room property features three restaurants including the famed Duke's Canoe Club, Chuck's Steakhouse and Hula Grill Waikiki; the popular Society of Seven cabaret show, shops, and exceptional displays of Hawaiian artifacts and artwork throughout the property. All guests are welcome to enjoy such on-property amenities as free high-speed Internet access, free long-distance domestic telephone calls, baggage services (fees apply), and Hawaiian Airlines check-in kiosk.
Photo courtesy Outrigger HotelsLabels: USA, Valentine's, vow renewals
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:22 AM
12112007: New Year's Eve Getaways in Litchfield Hills
Still making New Year's Eve plans? If you're looking for a Connecticut getaway, we just received a whole list of ideas from Litchfield Hills:
REVELING IN LAKEVILLEAt The Interlaken Inn (800- 222-2909 or 860- 435-9878; www.interlakeninn), an 80-room resort located on 30 acres in Lakeville, New Years revelers will feast on a fabulous dinner, and dance to the music of Scott Heth & Company, a versatile band with a repertoire ranging from jazz and big band to Motown and today’s Top 40 pop hits. They will also enjoy an open bar all evening, including the inn’s renowned New Year’s Eve martini bar, plus a champagne toast at midnight.
Dinner at the Interlaken begins with an appetizer buffet, including a raw bar with hand-shucked fresh oysters and clams, prepared-to-order, Peking-style Duck, and a Sushi Station. Main dish choices include horseradish-encrusted filet mignon and baked organic salmon, served with caper-chive sauce. The dessert menu includes a lavish chocolate fountain and delicate crepes flambéed to order.
Those who stay the night will wake up New Year’s morning to a hearty New England breakfast buffet, served with Bloody Mary’s and champagne.
Price: New Year’s Eve packages are from $427 per couple; extra nights at the inn are $139.
ELEGANCE IN DANBURYThe Ethan Allen Hotel in Danbury (203-744-1776; www.ethanallenhotel.com) is an elegant haven owned and designed by the well -known upscale furniture manufacturer headquartered nearby. It is furnished throughout with their exclusive furniture.
The New Year's package at the hotel features a four-course dinner in the gracious Ivy Room, followed by DJ entertainment and dancing in the Fairfields Lounge, with four hours of open bar and a champagne toast at midnight. After a night in a spacious guest room, celebrators will enjoy a bountiful Ivy Room brunch.
Price: The tab for two is $275.
GOING CLASSIC IN RIVERTONThe Old Riverton Inn (860-379-8678 or 800-EST-1796; www.rivertoninn.com,)
is a 12-room charmer and a New England classic. A fixture in the village since 1796, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Warm New Year's hospitality at the inn will include candy and champagne in guest rooms, a four-course dinner and a full country breakfast in the morning.
The evening menu choices may include a choice of appetizers, crisp green salad, and entrees such as roast ducking with black cherry sauce, filet of salmon with béarnaise sauce, baked stuffed shrimp and roast beef. Delectable desserts like key lime pie, maple crème brulee, cheesecake and deep dish apple crisp are a happy ending to the meal.
Price: New Year's packages run from $230 to $275 for two.
FIRELIGHT IN KENTThe intimate Inn at Kent Falls (860-927-3197; www.theinnatkentfalls.com) a 1741 home turned bed and breakfast, offers six guest rooms and five fireplaces, a cozy setting for making New Years resolutions. Their New Years Eve package offers two nights in a beautifully appointed guest room or suite, each stocked with a bottle of champagne and handmade chocolates, plus a sumptuous New Years morning brunch.
Price: Rates begin at $395 for two. The hosts will help you make dinner reservations at one of the many excellent restaurants nearby.
OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODSTo add more country charm to the holiday, reserve a carriage ride offered at two Litchfield Hills farms. Both switch to sleigh rides when the necessary snow is on the ground.
At Wood Acres Farm in Terryville, (860-583-8670, www.woodacresfarm.com) the ride goes across 25 acres of wooded trails, ending with refreshments in the owners’ country home.
Beth’s Buggy and Sleigh Rides based at Loon Meadow Farm in Norfolk (860) (542-6085; www.loonmeadowfarm.com )offers two choices, a sightseeing jaunt through the historic town of Norfolk or a country canter along eighteenth century roads through woods and fields. Guests receive cozy lap robes for cuddling during the ride and hot mulled cider back home at the farm.
For more information:• call (860) 567-4506
• visit
www.litchfieldhills.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 2:56 PM
12032007: Valentine's Day Escapes in Beverly Hills and West Hollywood
Think to please this Valentine's Day by treating your mate to a rendezvous in iconic Beverly Hills or in trend-setting West Hollywood. Head to these urban gems - Avalon Beverly Hills, Maison 140 Beverly Hills, or Chamberlain West Hollywood - for a sensual escape complete with romance packs, breakfast in bed, and culinary delights guaranteed to ramp up the mood for love
Avalon Beverly Hills and Maison 140's "Romance Package": Couples seeking an intimate Valentine's Day retreat need to look no further than Avalon and Maison 140 in Beverly Hills. Nothing says romance like classic champagne and strawberries, breakfast in bed, and dinner for two, all offered in the provocative design of tastemaker Kelly Wearstler.
Avalon Beverly Hills Package: The Avalon Package includes:
- One Night stay in a Premium Room
- Welcome Amenity of Champagne & Strawberries
- Dinner for two at blue on blue (excludes alcohol & gratuity)
- Romance Kit to include candles & sensual oils.
Rate: Total price is $585, inclusive of tax. Package rate shows 15% cost savings.
Dates:
Available throughout the month of February 2007.
For More Information: • visit
avalonbeverlyhills.com• call (866) 891-0946
• Avalon is located at 9400 West Olympic Boulevard in Beverly Hills, CA.
Maison Package: The Maison Package includes:
- One Night stay in a Mandarin Room
- Welcome Amenity of Champagne & Strawberries
- Dinner for two at blue on blue
- Breakfast in bed
- Romance Kit to include candles & sensual oils.
Rate: Total price is $435, excludes tax and gratuity. Package rate shows 15% cost savings.
Dates: Available throughout the month of February 2007
For More Information:• visit
maison140beverlyhills.com• call (866) 891-0945
• Maison 140 is located at 140 South Lasky Drive in Beverly Hills, CA.
Chamberlain West Hollywood Package: Chamberlain West Hollywood's "Aphrodisiac Package": Celebrate with this sensual escape for two. Chamberlain sets the stage with in room table settings, alluring candle-light and plush pillows while providing all the tools needed for an unforgettable evening.
The Package: The Chamberlain package includes:
- Sensual One Day Escape for Couples in one of our suites (see below for options)
- Nicholas Feuillatte Champagne upon arrival
- Copy of one of these mood-making books: Kama Sutra for the 21st Century Lover or Fork Me, Spoon Me; a Sensual Cookbook
- In room table settings of candelabra and floor seating cushions
- vanilla Body Soufflé and Edible Honey Dust
- Chef Peter Gobin's "Senses" Menu
Rate: Total price per night is Grand Suite $975; One-Bedroom Suite $1,045. Package excludes tax or gratuity.
Dates: Available from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008.
For More Information:• visit
chamberlainwesthollywood.com • call (866) 891 0949
• Chamberlain West Hollywood is located at 1000 Westmount Drive in West Hollywood, CA.
Labels: USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:41 AM
11282007: Colorado Valentine's Packages
With the high demand for Valentine's getaways, it's not too early to start planning yours. We just received the following set of packages covering a wide variety of getaways in romantic Colorado:
Rekindle the Romance at 5,280 Feet and AboveMen need a little TLC, too and
The Inverness Hotel & Conference Center in Denver brings new meaning to "manly pampering" with its Rolex Turndown package. It includes accommodations in the Presidential Suite, a signature Rolex Submariner watch, a vintage bottle of scotch from Macallan, and a couples treatment at the spa. The Rolex Turndown package starts at $8,029. (800-832-9053)
Discover the romance of downtown Denver at the famed
Hotel Teatro. Catch a show, explore a museum and paint the town. Enjoy luxurious room accommodations, a $25 Victoria's Secret gift certificate, chilled champagne, a Chocó Love chocolate bar, and a 1pm check out for extra snuggle time. Rates start at just $269 a night. (888-228-1100)
Take your vacation to new heights at the
Ice Palace Inn Bed & Breakfast in Leadville, the highest incorporated city in North America. From November 19, 2007-February 19, 2008 the Ice Palace Bed & Breakfast is offering two nights lodging, a bouquet of flowers, sparkling cider, a gourmet breakfast each morning, homemade refreshments in the afternoon and a dinner voucher for two at one of many local restaurants all for just $299. (800-754-2849)
Celebrate Your Love...of the OutdoorsSpend five nights nestled among two of Colorado's Fourteeners at the
Dunton Hot Springs. Delight in a welcome bottle of wine, two full days of guided activity adventures, three spa treatments, three meals daily including a private dinner served in cabin and endless use of the Denton Hot Springs. The package rate is $6,800 per couple. (970-882-4800)
Reconnect at the
Chipeta Sun Lodge & Spa. The lodge is offering a "Colorado Winter Romance Package" that includes two nights in a romantic deluxe room, where couples can unwind in a hot tub on a private balcony with breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains. Enjoy a soothing couple's massage at the Chipeta Spa (with plush spa robes to keep), two passes to the Orvis Hot Springs and dinner at Ashe Restaurant, where guests will receive gourmet truffles, a bottle of Colorado wine from Grand View winery and a bouquet of fresh flowers.The package rate is $725, double occupancy. (800-633-5838)
Add some adrenaline to your relationship with the Whitewater Wine-N-Dine package from
Echo Canyon River Expeditions and Four Corners Rafting. This package includes a full day raft trip, one night accommodations at a Victorian bed and breakfast, and dinner at a delightful French restaurant. The package rate is $395 per couple, available April 15-September 15, 2008. (800-748-2953)
The Lap of LuxuryDiamonds and chocolate are a girl's best friends. This Valentine's day, she can have them both with the "Diamond Studded Dessert" package from
The Claremont Inn in Stratton, Colorado, which features a diamond solitaire pendant necklace tucked in the inn's famouschocolate raspberry mousse cake, which is topped with gold leafed chocolate ribbons. Starting at $595 a night, guests will luxuriate in bed and breakfast accommodations, a romantic dinner for two at a candlelit table in our wine cellar dining room and the decadent dessert. The package is available through February 2008. (888-291-8910)
"Love is in the Air" at the
Golden Hotel in Golden, Colorado. The romance begins with chilled champagne on arrival, followed by private sedan service from the hotel to a private landing site where a helicopter awaits for a breathtaking tour of the foothills followed by dinner at the famed Fort Restaurant. After dinner, enjoy a return journey over the Denver city lights. Breakfast for two at Bridgewater Grill is also included. Packages range from $1,490 to $2,215 and are available year-round. (303-635-0496)
Enjoy tranquility with a twist at
The Brown Palace Hotel in Denver. This pampering romance package combines deluxe accommodations for one night with an 80-minute couples Swedish massage, a bottle of BV Coastal chardonnay or cabernet, full breakfast for two delivered in room, chocolate covered strawberries, and valet parking. Package rates start at $499. The hotel also offers a special "Light Up the Night" package starting at $229, which includes deluxe accommodations for one night, full breakfast for two delivered in room, two evening cocktails in the spectacular lobby atrium, signature rose petal turn down, and valet parking. (800-321-2599)
Culinary GetawaysIf the surest way to the heart is through the stomach,
The Avalanche Ranch in Carbondale has the perfect package. Enjoy a two night stay in a cozy cabin in the heart of the Rockies and a cooking class at the fabulous Red House Kitchen. The class will focus on the culinary art of pleasing your lover. This package is available February 13-15, 2007. Package rates start at $300. (877-963-9339)
Get away at the enchanting
Boulder Bradley Inn and enjoy a dinner at Colorado's nationally acclaimed Frasca Food and Wine. Enjoy the foods and wines of Italy's Friuli region and be ‘wowed' by Chef Lachlan MacKinnon Patterson (Food & Wine Best New Chef in America, 2005) and Master Sommelier Bobby Stuckey. Following dinner, get a great night's sleep and wake up to a delicious breakfast in the Bradley Inn dining room. Room rates range from $195 to $225 per night plus restaurant bill at cost. (800-858-5811)
For more information about Colorado:• call 1-800-COLORADO
• visit
www.COLORADO.com• visit
www.colorado.com/traveldealsLabels: USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 11:38 AM
11192007: Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf Introduces Romance Package
There's no question that San Francisco is one of the world's most romantic cities and now couples have one more way to enjoy a visit: the “Bubbles & Berries” romance package at the Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf.
The Package: This package includes:
• overnight accommodations for two adult guests
• full American breakfast
• sparkling wine
• chocolate covered strawberries
Price: Rates start at $159 per night.
Dates: This package is offered to June 30, 2008.
Why It's Dreamy: This newly-renovated hotel offers 313 guest rooms with the plush, new Grand Bed with pillow-top mattresses; multifunction workstation with ergonomic chair; and luxurious bath with deluxe amenities. Guest services and amenities include Wi-Fi service throughout the hotel for $9.99/24hours; complimentary transportation to the Financial District; newly renovated 24-hour StayFit @ Hyatt Fitness Center; outdoor heated pool and Jacuzzi; and pool tables at Knuckles. Dining and Entertainment options range from Knuckles Historic Sports Bar & Grill, which was voted “Best Sports Bar in San Francisco,” as well as room service, which is offered from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Conveniently located across the street from the Mason/Powell Cable Car line, nearby attractions include Alcatraz, Pier 39, The Cannery, Fisherman's Wharf, Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Cruises, Coit Tower, Lombard Street, Ghirardelli Square, Aquarium of the Bay and North Beach.
For More Information: • visit
fishermanswharf.hyatt.com • call (415) 563-1234 or toll free (800) 233-1234
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 4:31 PM
11092007: Buyout a Beverly Hills Hotel
"Stand back, we're taking over!" It may seem like a Bridezilla moment but it can be practical to take over an entire hotel for a wedding function. With no other guests on property, your group can turn the lobby into a private reception area or arrange for group events just about anywhere on property with ease.
In Beverly Hills, California, Maison 140, an intimate, 43-room luxury boutique hotel is offering now offering group buyouts for $15,000 per night. No other guests. No fighting for the best room or wondering who you will find down in the intimate lounge…
This unique Beverly Hills hotel, redesigned by famed designer Kelly Wearstler as a contemporary tribute to the classic Parisian inns of the last century, is a great way to celebrate. The hotel’s intimate Bar Noir provides an exclusive lobby lounge setting from which to ring-in your special occasion with friends and family. Situated near Beverly Hills’ premier shopping districts, including the famous Rodeo Drive, the hotel's gray rooms combine elegant French influences with Asian artwork while yellow wall-papered rooms contrast against glossy black and white furniture.
The Package: The price of the buyout is a $15,000 (exclusive of taxes) per night. The package is for up to 40 guests (but no pets) and excludes all other incidentals.
Dates: This offer is available from November 15, 2007 thru December 31, 2007, and based on availability.
To book:• call 310-407-7767
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 10:48 AM
10192007: Fall Romance Package at California's Lake La Quinta Inn
Twenty miles from Palm Springs, California, the desert community of La Quinta is home to the exclusive 13-room Lake La Quinta Inn. This B&B offers rooms with various themes and décor, all uniquely designed and featuring fireplaces and fabulous lake and mountain views.
The Package: The Lake La Quinta Inn Romance Package includes:
• Three days and two nights in a lake view room
• Full cooked breakfast
• Dinner on one of the evenings at Amore Ristorante Italiano ($50 credit)
• Wine and hors d'oeuvres
• Add a full one-hour massage for $115 per person
Price: The price for the Lake La Quinta Inn Romance Package starts at $379 midweek.
Dates: This offer is good from October 1, 2007 through December 18, 2007. This offer is subject to availability and blackout dates apply.
Why It's Dreamy: Upon arrival at Lake La Quinta Inn, you'll feel you've stepped into another time and place. Full of old world charm, the inn is architecturally reminiscent of a French chateau, with each room overlooking Lake La Quinta toward the desert panorama. Rolling lawns, lush gardens and views of the Santa Rosa Mountains serve as a balm to the soul, providing a soothing and relaxing backdrop to your romantic escape.
In the morning, breakfast is served in the lakeside dining room and features fresh coffee, teas and juice accompanied by chef's daily cooked specialties. Later, in the afternoon, join the innkeeper and fellow guests and chat by the fire the lakeside living room, where delicious hors d'oeuvres, wine and cheese are served or take a dip in the resort's outdoor swimming pool and spa.
Within five miles of the resort, five PGA golf courses challenge players; tennis buffs find more than 600 courts located nearby. And to work out the kinks, Lake La Quinta Inn can arrange for a relaxing aromatherapy, Swedish, deep tissue or reflexology massage, or other spa services including facials at the on-site massage room.
For More Information:• To book the Lake La Quinta Inn Romance Package, call 888-226-4546
• visit
www.lakelaquintainn.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 12:06 PM
10022007: Fall Foliage Package at New England's Hotel Marlowe
In Cambridge, Massachusetts, Hotel Marlowe, Kimpton’s AAA Four-Diamond rated property, is offering a new Fall Foliage Package. While the autumn colors are in full bloom enjoy apple or pumpkin picking on a farm, a bike tour of the city and kayaking on the Charles River.
The Package: The Fall Foliage package includes:
•Two night stay at the Hotel Marlowe
•An all day adventure at Boston Hill or Brooksby Farm. Enjoy signature fall treats, wagon rides and honey fresh from the hives. Pick apples and/or pumpkins on a beautiful New England farm. Transportation is provided.
•Watch the leaves change while sitting in your own kayak on the Charles River. Enjoy amazing views of the city at the most beautiful time of the year. Bambara (a 170-seat restaurant and bar with water views featuring American Brasserie cuisine and a global selection of wines) provides a picnic lunch to enjoy while taking a break.
• An Urban Adventours City View Tour. Pedal from Fenway Park, through Back Bay and into Beacon Hill, experiencing one of the oldest cities in America. See historical and contemporary Boston while having time to stop for a cup of coffee or enjoy pastry in the Italian North End.
• Relax with the perfect ending to an autumn weekend in New England with in-room warm apple cider compliments of Bambara.
Price: Rates start at $960. Rates are subject to space, availability and change. Taxes and gratuities not included. Black out dates may apply.
Dates: The package is valid through November 1, 2007.
For more information:• visit
www.Kimptonhotels.com• for reservations for this package, call 800-825-7040 and ask for rate code PFOL
• call 1-800-KIMPTON
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 9:34 AM
1022007: Top 3 Fall Getaways from Travelers Advantage
Fall means fall foliage for many lovers--but leaf peeping isn't the only option for autumn travelers. (If you would like to do some leaf peeping, check out today's Lovetripper piece on
actress Mariel Hemingway's top fall getaways.) All types of outdoor activities take the top slot during this changing season.
"Fall is a very popular time of year to travel," said Leslie Downey, director, communications for Travelers Advantage and TravelersAdvantage.com. "The Travel Industry Association of America says that camping is the No. 1 outdoor vacation activity for Americans, and fall is an awesome time to soak up the outdoors."
This year's top fall getaways from Travelers Advantage include:
1. Caribbean: Soak up the sun on a St. Thomas adventure. Escape to the Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort & Spa, carved into a mountainside and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Virgin Islands. This 294-room, newly renovated resort offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, nearby island of St. John, and other neighboring islands. Enjoy a secluded private beach with extensive water sports including snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking; three interconnecting freshwater pools with a waterfall and grotto; tennis complex; onsite spa; state-of-the-art fitness center offering aerobic and yoga classes; kid's club; and a comprehensive schedule of daily activities. You can do as much or as little as you want. A 3-night air-inclusive stay via American Airlines from Miami is available from $639.
2. Hawaii: Say Aloha to fall with an escape to Waikiki Beach. Luxuriate in the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort in Honolulu, which features a three-story atrium with cascading waterfalls, four restaurants, five lounges, numerous child activities and a full-service spa. Explore the legendary North Shore of Oahu one day, and snorkel the next on the east side at Hanauma Bay. Thrill seekers can skydive at Mokuleia, while daydreamers can relax on the pristine beaches of this exquisite resort. Overlooking Waikiki Beach and within walking distance of shopping, entertainment and attractions, every room has a balcony and spectacular views of the ocean or mountain. From cascading waterfalls and luxurious treatments at Na Ho'ola Spa, to a comprehensive children's program, you've got it all. A 4-night air-inclusive stay for departures from Los Angeles via Northwest Airlines is available from $859.
3. Sail: Consider a New England cruise up the East Coast and into Canada. Most cruises travel between Boston or New York and Halifax, Nova Scotia or Quebec, Canada, and sailings can be one-way or round-trip through October. Catch a $449, six-night
Norwegian Spirit tour. (All rates are cruise only, per person, double occupancy and do not include non-commissionable fares and $19.95 processing fee. Cancellation penalty of $79applies. Fees are subject to change and withdrawal at any time without notice. The Norwegian Spirit cruise sails Oct. 21-28, and can be booked through Oct. 20. )
Or soak up a fall foliage cruise featuring the captivating scenery of the Mississippi River, the rolling hills and manicured farmland of the Ohio Valley and the serene beauty of the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers aboard the
American Queen or
Delta Queen Steamboats (rates on seven night excursions range from $795 to $1,564 per person double occupancy.)
F
or More Information and Details on Above Options:• call 1-877-841-1335
• visit
www.travelersadvantage.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 9:31 AM
09272007: Death Valley's Furnace Creek Inn Offers Romantic Escape Package
Looking to heat up your romance? The historic Furnace Creek Inn, which opened in 1927, offers couples a new "Romantic Escape" package in Death Valley, California.
Dates: The package runs from October 19, 2007 through May 8, 2008.
The Package: The Romantic Escape package includes:
• three nights in a luxury room with a king bed and spa tub
• fruit and cheese welcome basket, bottle of Mumm Cuvee Napa Brut Blanc Champagne
• two Furnace Creek Inn terrycloth bathrobes
• a pre-arranged tour of Scotty's Castle - not otherwise available
• a horse-drawn carriage ride at sunset
Price: The package, including tax, costs $1,500 per couple. The package represents a savings of 14 percent off individually priced package components.
Why It's Dreamy: The Furnace Creek Inn is a AAA Four-Diamond resort overlooking desert salt pans with the Panamint Mountains in the background. With its mission-style architecture, oasis garden and spring-fed pool, the inn features 66 rooms, fine dining, tennis courts, gift shop, conference rooms and massage therapy. All rooms at the Furnace Creek Inn are non-smoking rooms and have air conditioning, televisions, data port telephones, pay-per-view movies, free HBO, Nintendo games, refrigerators, irons, ironing boards, hair dryers, bathroom amenities and terry robes. Most rooms have decks or terraces. Some rooms have spa tubs. The Inn is open mid-October through mid-May.
For More Information:• call 1-800-236-7916
• visit
www.furnacecreekresort.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 5:32 PM
09252007: Hawaii's Kona Village Resort Offers 4th Night Free
This is a first: the luxury Kona Village Resort is offering a 4th Night Free promotion. Lovers can extend their stay in individual thatched-roof hale (bungalows) on the resort's tropical landscaping, lagoons, black and white sandy beaches with this new package.
The Package: The 4th Night Free Package includes:
•accommodations in a
hale•use of fitness center, tennis courts and clinics, and ocean sports equipment such as kayaks, boogie boards, snorkel equipment and outrigger canoes
• complimentary children's program (ages 6 to12)
• complimentary daily in-room service of assorted beverages and 100 percent Kona coffee
Rates: Room rates at Kona Village Resort, which begin at $625 per night for two persons, also include three meals daily served oceanfront, Tuesday evening's Paniolo Night, Wednesday & Friday evening's 'aha'aina (lu'au), arrival greeting with fresh flower lei, two swimming pools, ocean sports equipment and daily activities such as nature walks and cultural tours.
Note: On the fourth night of the 4th Night Free plan, your meals are not included. Meals are subject to applicable meal plan rate on 4th night. Taxes, beverages and gratuities are not included. Offer, which is subject to blackout dates and availability, applies to new bookings only and may not be combined with other packages or special offers.
Dates: Travel must be completed by December 21, 2007.
For More Information:• visit
www.KonaVillage.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:44 PM
09082007: City of Love Anniversary Contest in San Francisco
You didn't have to leave your heart in San Francisco...but you did have to marry or honeymoon there to qualify for this romantic contest.
Hotel Nikko San Francisco is celebrating its 20th anniversary and will provide a luxurious second honeymoon to a lucky couple who got married or honeymooned there. You can have married or honeymooned at the romantic hotel any time since it opened its doors.
The winning couple will receive a prize with an estimated value of over $11,000 including:
* transportation to San Francisco from anywhere in the U.S.
* six nights in the honeymoon suite
* breakfasts
* a dinner in the hotel's ANZU restaurant
* champagne
And not only must you have married or honeymooned at the hotel...but you must also still be married (yes, to each other!) You also have to be able to prove your wedding or honeymoon was at the hotel.
The deadline for contest entries is Sept. 25, 5 pm.
Full contest rules are available online at
http://www.hotelnikkosf.com/specials.aspx or by contacting Joe Curran,
jcurran@hotelnikkosf.com, fax: 415-421-0455, telephone: 415-394-1111.
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 1:17 PM
08242007: New Wedding Packages from Florida's Steinhatchee Landing Resort
Outdoor lovers will love the new small wedding packages offered by Florida's Steinhatchee Landing Resort. Located on 35 acres, the lush grounds of the resort provide a distinct Southern backdrop for ceremonies. The Landing has created three new Small Wonders wedding packages for even the smallest of gatherings. Guests can choose from among the property’s many scenic locations for the ceremony, from the wedding gazebo and water garden, to the riverside croquet lawn. The resort’s private pontoon boat is even available for couples who want to exchange vows while cruising down the Steinhatchee River.
Just You and I – $275 (Packages for parties of eight or less.)
Includes choice of resort ceremony location; Notary Public to perform the ceremony; a CD with 20 digital photos; appropriate wedding ceremony music
Intimate Details – $650 (Starlight gazebo ceremony are available for an additional $100 when booking the Intimate Details package. )
Includes “Just You and I” package amenities, plus a champagne toast; customized “Just Married” sign for the trip home; a two-night stay in a Spice Cottage; in-room Gilchrist & Soames spa treatment basket; continental breakfast each morning
Day to Remember – $900 (Starlight gazebo ceremony available for an additional $100 when booking the Day to Remember package.)
Includes “Intimate Details” package amenities, plus bridal flowers, including a silk bouquet and boutonniere; a one-hour pontoon boat ride on Steinhatchee River; two-night stay in a Honeymoon Cottage, with one dozen roses awaiting the couples’ arrival
Why It's Dreamy: Guests can choose from one- to four-bedroom Victorian and Florida Cracker style cottages that include full kitchens, washers/dryers, TV/DVD players, stereos with CD player, screened porches and outdoor charcoal grills. The luxuriously decorated Honeymoon Cottages offer h a large main room featuring a bedroom and sitting/dining area appointed with French country-style furniture and décor. Dimmable lighting, hardwood floors and a large, glass-enclosed gas fireplace inspire romance. The fireplace can even be enjoyed while soaking in the oversized spa tub with twin-heated backrests.
For More Information:• call (800) 584-1709, (352) 498-3513
• visit
www.SteinhatcheeLanding.comLabels: USA, weddings
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 1:41 PM
061507: A Second Honeymoon for Florida's The Moorings Village
In the Florida Keys, The Moorings Village has renovated its quaint Honeymoon Cottage, one of the resort’s original 1930s cottages. The one-bedroom Honeymoon Cottage has been restored in shades of pristine white and calming blue, and accented with rich hardwood furniture, plush throw pillows and luxurious linens. Set under a lush tree canopy of more than 700 coconut palms and punctuated with lazy hammocks, privacy is one of the main draws at this renowned island paradise.
Amenities include the resort’s 1,100-foot velvety white sand beach, tennis court, 25-meter heated swimming pool, fitness facilities, kayaks and windsurfing equipment, and Island Body & Sõl Spa at The Moorings Village.
To add to the celebratory mood, Newlywed couples who book Honeymoon Cottage for a week or more through December 15, 2007 will receive a complimentary welcome package, complete with a gourmet basket designed to help start a sweet life together, and a couples massage in the resort’s Beachside Massage Hut.
The Newlywed Package is based on the availability and blackout dates may apply.
For more information:• visit
www.mooringsvillage.com• call 305.664.4708
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:53 PM
Proposal Package from The James Chicago Hotel
You've no doubt seen a lot of romance packages--but how about one that includes a Van Cleef & Arpels engagement ring? We just received information from The James Chicago Hotel on their new PROPOSE package.
The Package: The PROPOSE package includes:
• 2 night’s stay in THE JAMES Penthouse Loft
• Van Cleef & Arpels Engagement Ring
• Private dinner for two including a personal Primehouse Chef, romantic private dining room for the couple and a special live serenade from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra four string quartet
• Spa Experience for two from THE SPA by Asha
• One year anniversary gift from THE JAMES
Dates: Available through December 30, 2007.
Price: The PROPOSE package starts at $60,000.
For More Information:• The James Chicago
55 East Ontario at Rush
Chicago, IL 60611
Toll Free: 877.JAMES.55
Local: 312.337.1000
• visit
www.jameshotels.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 1:03 PM
New York City Package Easy on the Budget
If the two of you are looking for an affordable yet romantic getaway in the Big Apple this summer, look no further than Apple Core Hotels. During the month of July, the hotels are offering guests the "Row a Boat" package.
The group of five centrally-located midtown Manhattan properties invites guests to lazily row a boat across Central Park’s 22-acre lake and to enjoy a perfect summer lunch while taking in the famous park’s beauty and charm with the “Row a Boat” package.
The Package: The "Row a Boat" package includes:
• Accommodations in the heart of New York City
• 1 hour boat rental for up to 4 guests in Central Park*
• Hot dog/French fries/soda combo for two at the Express Cafe at Central Park’s Boathouse Restaurant
• Complimentary breakfast and in-room coffee
* Boat rentals are available from 10:00 a.m. until dusk. Boats can be rented at the Loeb Boathouse, located in the Northeast corner of the Lake between 74th and 75th Streets. While the 1st hour is complimentary, guests will be charged $2.50 for each additional 1/2 hour or portion thereof. Please call 212.517.2233 for additional information.
Dates: The promotion is available from July 1 – 31, 2007.
Price: The package price is $179.99 per night, exclusive of tax and based on availability. Additionally, children under 13 stay free when sharing their parents’ room.
For More Information:• call Apple Core Hotels, (800) 567-7720, and mention the “Row a Boat” package
• visit
http://www.applecorehotels.com/promos/boat>www.applecorehotels.com/promos/boat About the Hotels: Apple Core Hotels is a group of five, centrally-located, midtown Manhattan hotels which offer a number of thoughtful amenities not found in other budget-friendly category hotels. All five properties feature: free WiFi Internet access in all rooms and public spaces, complimentary daily breakfast, fitness facilities, business centers, in-room video games and movies on-demand. The properties are located within walking distance to must-see New York attractions such as the Empire State Building, Times Square, Central Park, and Macy’s.
Apple Core Hotels’ properties include:
• La Quinta Inn Manhattan (17 West 32nd Street)
• Red Roof Inn Manhattan (6 West 32nd Street)
• the smoke-free Comfort Inn Midtown (129 West 46th Street)
• Super 8 Hotel Times Square (59 West 46th Street)
• Ramada Inn East Side (161 Lexington Avenue)
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 10:06 AM
Spa Girl Package at Napa's Silverado Resort
Looking for a pre-wedding getaway for you and your 'maids? Check out this package from California's Silverado Resort. The "Spa Girl" package offers up to 40% off regular rates this summer and fall.
The Package: For each night the package is booked, guests receive accommodations in a one-bedroom suite at the Silverado Resort, a 50-minute spa treatment at the Spa at Silverado, breakfast at the Grill at Silverado or the Spa Café and use of spa facilities and tennis courts. Guests also receive a wine-tasting at the William Hill Estate and a Silverado canvas tote.
The Price: Through November 17, the package is $285 per person per night based on double occupancy in a one-bedroom suite or triple occupancy in a two-bedroom suite. The cost is $240 per person per night for four people in a two-bedroom suite. All taxes and gratuities are included.
The Spa: The Spa at Silverado is Napa Valley's largest resort spa. Facilities include a fitness center with TechnoGym equipment, 16 private treatment rooms and a full range of massage,body and skin care treatments; a full-service salon offering hair and nail care; fitness studios offering personal training, daily exercise classes, weight-training and cardiovascular equipment; private men's and women's lounges; locker rooms with spa robes and sandals; a 25-meter lap pool and outdoor whirlpool.
For More Information:• call 800-532-0500 or 707-257-0200
• visit
www.silveradoresort.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:14 PM
Golf and Winery Package for California Lovers
He'd like to golf, you'd like to tour wineries and hit the spa. What to do? Check out the new Wente Vineyards Golf Stay & Play Package offered by Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa in Livermore, a Northern California destination.
The Package: The package features a full experience at Wente Vineyards. A round of golf at the Greg Norman-designed course, rated the top course in the East Bay region, includes a box lunch on the course, golf cart, use of the practice range and complimentary wine tasting.
A special welcome gift awaits guests, where each package includes one spa treatment per person from a collection of options (massages, facials, wraps).
Rates: Winter season midweek rates for the Wente Vineyards Golf Stay & Play Package start at $263 (for one) and $417 (for two), with weekend rates beginning at $292 (for one) and $477 (for two). The winter season package is available through March 26, 2007.
For More Information:• call 925-283-3700
• visit
www.lafayetteparkhotel.com and
www.wentegolf.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:12 PM
Newport Beach, California Offers Valentine's Packages
Still looking for a Valentine's getaway? Check out the many packages available in
Newport Beach, California. You'll find everything from a Royal Romance package at the Fairmont Newport Beach to a special whalewatching cruise on Valentine's!
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 5:59 PM
Dallas's Hilton Anatole Creates Valentine's Package
Here's a dreamy package--actually two--that came across our desk from Dallas's Hilton Anatole Hotel. This 27-floor hotel includes an extensive art collection, three pools, an indoor jogging track, and more. Best of all, it's also home to one of Dallas's most lauded romantic restaurants, Nana (located on the top floor with a bird's eye view of Dallas). Named one of “America’s Top 50 Restaurants” in 2006 by Gourmet Magazine, the restaurant tempts lovers with a sublime four-course dinner, chocolate truffles, and a special gift for each lady this Valentine’s Day. (Because of limited availability, be sure to get reservations.)
Valentine’s Romance Package: Priced at $199, this package includes:
• One-night deluxe guestroom accommodations for two
• Complimentary bottle of chilled champagne and chocolates upon arrival
• Breakfast for two at the Hilton Anatole’s Terrace restaurant
• Self-guided tour of the Art Collection at the Hilton Anatole
• Double Dip® to earn both HHonors points and airline miles for the same stay
Valentine’s Spa Package: This package is priced at $349*
· One-night deluxe guestroom accommodations for two
· Two one-hour personal massage treatments of your choice
· Complimentary bottle of chilled champagne and chocolates upon arrival
· Two complimentary passes to the Verandah Club & Spa
· Breakfast for two at the Hilton Anatole’s Terrace restaurant
· Self-guided tour of the Art Collection at the Hilton Anatole
· Double Dip® to earn both HHonors points and airline miles for the same stay
Dates & Details: The package is available Feb. 9-18, 2007. Package is not valid with any other offer, is not available for groups and does not include tax. Rates are as low as the price point stated above; however they’re subject to change.
For More Information:• call (214) 748-1200 (Hotel Main Number), (800) 955-4281 or (800) HILTONS
• visit
www.anatole.hilton.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 5:42 PM
Valentine's Package at NYC's Mansfield
New York City is synonymous with romance for many couples; the Mansfield on 12 West 44th Street is making the appeal even stronger this Valentine's Day with their "Unforgettable" package that allows guests to appreciate each other and the classic Beaux Arts details of this 1904 gem.
The Package: The package includes:
-Overnight Accommodations in a luxury suite
-One bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne
-Continental breakfast for two served in room
-His and Hers Mansfield bathrobes
-Chocolate turndown service
-Japanese orchids to take home
Package Dates: February 9 – 18, 2007
Price: This package starts at $599 per night
For More Information: • visit
www.mansfieldhotel.com • call (800) 255-5167
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:50 PM
Denver's The Brown Palace Hotel Offering Valentine's Package
If you've been to Denver, you've probably heard of The Brown Palace Hotel, a member of the National Trust Historic Hotels of America. This romantic retreat is offering a special Valentine's package for lovers:
The Package: Beginning at $219, the Light Up the Night romance package includes an overnight stay in one of the hotel's world-famous guest rooms; breakfast for two delivered by room service or at Ellyngton's; two evening cocktails in the breathtaking atrium; and signature rose-petal turndown. The package is available through Dec. 30, 2007. Price based on double occupancy per night. Subject to availability.
Add-Ons: A perfect package add-on would be one of the sumptuous spa treatments in the new Spa at The Brown Palace, a 5,200-square-foot facility focuses on relaxation and romance. The Champagne Kiss, which takes place in the deluxe couples' suite, comes complete with rose petals and a tandem candle-lit massage followed by a delicious chocolate body polish and champagne soak. For a finishing touch, couple's sip chilled champagne and enjoy chocolate-covered strawberries.
The Be My Valentine package also takes place in the magnificent couples' suite. Sprinkled in rose petals to set the mood, couples receive a tandem candle-lit massage followed by an aromatic Artesian Plunge. Couples also sip chilled champagne and enjoy chocolate-covered strawberries. Prices for the spa packages begin at $225, gratuity not included.
Tours: Another unique and special Valentine's touch at The Brown Palace is the "Affairs of the Heart" Historical Tour. Historian Julia Kanellos conducts special historical tours of the 114-year-old Brown Palace Hotel featuring the romantic rendezvous that have occurred throughout the years. These themed tours will be offered to the public for free on Feb. 10, 13 & 14 starting at 1 p.m From the story of hotel founder Henry C. Brown, who at 74 took a 22-year-old for his third wife, and romantic couples like Lowell and Frances Thomas, and President Ike and Mamie Eisenhower, to the scandalous affairs of Isabelle "Sassy" Springer and Mrs. Louise Crawford Hill, The Brown Palace has seen them all. The tours will highlight these, as well as World War II love stories and more.
Before the tour, visitors can have lunch in the casual Ship Tavern or upscale Ellyngton's. For a special treat, enjoy traditional afternoon tea in the atrium lobby and have long stem roses delivered from The Brown's own Flower Shop.
For More Information:• call (303) 297-3111, (800) 321-2599
• visit
www.brownpalace.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:44 PM
Running of the Brides Package in Boston
The semi-annual Running of the Brides designer bridal gown sale at Filene's Basement is a Boston tradition and a must for many brides. Grab one of your 'maids or your Mom and get ready for a weekend of bridal fun with the Extreme Bride Package at Hyatt Regency Boston. Stay overnight Thursday, February 15 and you'll be steps from the sale at Filene's Basement on Friday, February 16.
The Package: It features overnight accommodations for up to two people, complimentary valet parking, Power Breakfast To Go (fruit, water and power bar) and a personal consultation with a Hyatt Regency Boston Wedding Specialist. Crucial accessories include a set of clothespins to try on dresses, bridal magazines and the Top 10 Tips For Successful Dress Shopping from the experts at Filene's Basement.
The Price: The cost is $199, excluding tax and gratuities.
Contests: Two contests take an overnight stay at Hyatt Regency Boston to the extreme:
• Each bride who stays at the hotel on Feb. 15 will be entered in a sweepstakes to win VIP entrance to Filene's Basement without waiting in long lines the morning of the bridal gown sale.
• Enter for a chance to win a trip for two to Paris, the city of love. The prize includes round-trip airfare for two on Air France and a three-night stay at the famed Park Hyatt Vendome. Enter to win the Paris trip by registering at the hotel or online at hyattregencyboston.com or hyattboston@hyatt.com. Entries must be received by March 10, 2007. For complete contest terms and conditions visit hyattregencyboston.com.
The Hotel: Hyatt Regency Boston was recently transformed into a sophisticated urban retreat with a $10.5 million renovation. The focal point of all 498 guestrooms and suites is the residential feel and luxe palette of warm bed, featuring a thick, pillow-top mattress with a fluffy white duvet and oversized pillows.
Situated at One Avenue de Lafayette in Downtown Crossing, the city's premier dining and shopping district, the hotel is just steps from the Financial District, Boston Common, the Theatre District, Newbury Street and Faneuil Hall.
For more information:• call 617-912-1234
• visit
hyattregencyboston.comLabels: USA, weddings
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:55 PM
Sexy Valentine's Package at NYC's Shoreham
Looking for a way to heat things up on Valentine's Day? Check out "Cupid's Delight," a sexy, romantic package offered by New York City's Shoreham hotel. Located on 33 West 55th Street, the hotel is offering this pacakge from February 9 – 18.
The Package: The package will include:
-Overnight accommodation in a Junior Spa Suite (including an oversized Jacuzzi tub and five-head rain shower)
-Bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries waiting in room.
-$50 dining credit at the Shoreham Bar and Restaurant
-Two tickets to the Museum of Sex
-Continental breakfast in bed for two
Price: “Cupid’s Delight” starts at $599 per night.
For More Information:• To book, visit
www.shorehamhotel.com • call (800) 553-3347
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 12:13 PM
182007-Guys' Spa Getaway at Florida's Hyatt Regency Bonaventure
Looking for a bachelor party option to suggest to your guy? Or some pre-wedding pampering for your sweetie? The new Red Door Lifestyle Spa, located at the Hyatt Regency Bonaventure in Weston, Florida, is offering a "Red Door Lifestyle Men's Club" package, ideal for grooms.
The Package: This package includes:
• two-night deluxe accommodations at the Hyatt Regency Bonaventure
• unlimited access to the Red Door Lifestyle Spa facilities
• healthy spa cuisine including a breakfast and lunch at the Spa Café
• one 60-minute personal training session, and pampering spa treatments including:
•• Deep tissue massage
•• E-Solutions clarifying facial or E-Solutions clarifying back facial
•• Vichy shower
•• Sport manicure and pedicure
•• Balancing scalp treatment
•• Haircut and blow dry
Before and after treatments, guests can enjoy use of the state of the art fitness and weight center, relaxation rooms, Zen Garden, steam room, sauna, whirlpool, private outdoor pool and luxurious spa locker room (the men's locker room is equipped with a flat screen TV so there is no stress about missing a game).
Rates: Priced at $1,175 per person. Rate does not include taxes and gratuities and cannot be combined with other offers and discounts
Dates: The package is valid January 1-31 and February 7 - June 1, 2007.
For more information:• visit
www.reddoorspas.com• call 954-389-3300
Labels: spa, USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 7:20 PM
Red Sox Luxury Hotel Package
If your guy's a Boston Red Sox fan, here's a Valentine's Day idea he'll love (and you will, too):
Hotel Commonwealth, located steps from Fenway Park, is offering a special hotel accommodations package through the end of the 2007 World Series.
The Package: This package includes:
• overnight accommodations for two overlooking historic Fenway Park
• two tickets for a guided Fenway Park tour
• full gourmet breakfast for two in Eastern Standard Kitchen & Drinks
• valet parking
Price: Rates for the package start at $289 per room, per night based on double occupancy. Subject to availability.
For more information:• call 866-784-4000
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 7:16 PM
Clothing Optional Resort Favored by Celebs
If one of your resolutions is to cast off some of your cares--not to mention your clothes--take a look at Palm Springs's Sea Mountain Inn Resort & Spa. According to Sea Mountain, MSN called this California getaway one of the top ten celebrity spas in the country, AOL named it one of the top five destinations to get naked, and VH1 said it was the ultimate celebrity secret and top romantic destination. We've just posted an
interview about what makes Sea Mountain Inn special for couples and romantic travelers.
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:11 PM
Romantic San Antonio
We've just completed a radio interview with WHO Radio in Des Moines in preparation for the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio later this week. As Lovetripper readers know, San Antonio is one of our favorite cities. One topic that came up during the interview was what's new in San Antonio that returning visitors can discover; we recommended two new discoveries of ours that we think will be favorites with romantic travelers: the Watermark Hotel and Pesca on the River restaurant.
This month, we stayed at the Watermark during a trip to check out the River Walk's Christmas lights. A sister hotel to the Omni La Mansion just across the river, the Watermark is a good choice for lovers thanks to its top notch spa (the only Mobil 4 Star spa in San Antonio). We enjoyed a couple's massage at the spa, which was located just steps from our riverview room.
That evening, we headed downstairs to dinner at Pesca on the River, an elegant eatery with both indoor and riverfront seating. The restaurant flies in seafood from around the globe daily. Start off with a tequila tasting; tequilas are served "bandera style" accompanied by hot sauce, salt, and lime. When it comes time to make a meal selection, start with fresh oysters followed by specialties such as blackened swordfish, seared ahi tuna peppered steak or grilled aged filet mignon. From the restaurant, you can step right outside and stroll the River Walk, our vote for one of the country's most romantic escapes.
For More Information:• visit
www.watermarkhotel.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 2:21 PM
Proposal Idea from Florida's Chesapeake Resort
Looking for a proposal idea? How about a $6000 Piña Colada? Yes, that's a piña colada...complete with a hand-selected diamond ring in place of the drink's cherry.
The Chesapeake Resort in Islamorada, Florida is offering a romantic holiday getway for popping the question.
The resort will arrange for the proposal to take place in your desired setting, be it during a candlelit dinner overlooking the sparkling crest of Atlantic waves, watching the sunset paint the horizon in brush strokes of pastel lavender and rose, or in the privacy of your suite basking in the glow of romance.
The Package: Along with the diamond ring, the package includes:
• three night's accommodations in an Oceanfront Suite
• continental breakfast daily
• use of all non-motorized water sports and bikes
• dinner for two at the intimate Morada Bay Café
• a romantic Sunset Cruise for two in the Keys' only Nautilimo nautical limousine or a chartered boat
The Ring: A special meeting will be arranged with the General Manager and resort's preferred jeweler to select the ring.
Price: Total cost of the package is $6,000.00, inclusive of all fees and taxes.
Reservations should be made seven days in advance.
For more information: • visit
www.chesapeake-resort.com• call 1-800-338-3395
• Offer excludes Jan. 12-14, 2007
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:32 PM
Valentine's Package in California Wine Country
It's not too early to start making plans for Valentine's Day travel, especially for popular destinations. One idea: Northern California Wine Country.
BeautifulPlaces and Country Sojourns offer on-staff travel concierges to help you pick out a special weekend retreat. You can choose from a cozy cottage, Tuscan villa or a secluded mountaintop getaway. The company can plan exclusive activities for your stay or you can opt for the Wine & Wild Package.
The Package: The package includes:
• two tickets to Safari West’s Outrageous Wildlife Courtship Safari, Dinner and Dance Party
• An overflowing basket of gourmet treats and local wines;
• A private couples massage in your home.
Package Dates: available only February 9-11, 2007
Package Price: Wine and Wild package $699
Three-day/two-night weekend home rentals starting at $325 per night plus $75 booking fee and 11 percent tax.
For more information:• call 1-800-495-9961
• visit
www.beautiful-places.com and
www.countrysojourns.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:21 PM
New Wedding Venue at Ritz-Carlton, Naples
There are always a lot of good reasons to select Ritz-Carlton for a destination wedding and, for couples planning a Naples, Florida wedding, there's yet one more: a new wedding venue right on the Gulf of Mexico. Read about the
wedding and reception venue.
Labels: USA, weddings
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:42 PM
Orlando Hosting Bowl-a-Palooza
There are already lots of reasons for couples to visit Orlando but in late December there will be another: the week-long Bowl-a-Palooza. Starting December 26 and spanning through the December 29 Champs Sports Bowl and Capital One Bowl on January 1, Bowl-a-Palooza incorporates two classic bowl games with a plethora of new, exciting events. The only city to host two bowl games in one-week's time, Orlando will now host what amounts to a week-long party.
Special Events:Electronic Arts Tiburon Bowl-a-Palooza Challenge
Players from the Capital One Bowl teams match gaming skills at The Florida Mall in EA Sports' NCAA Football 2007 video game. Fans are invited to watch as the players compete in a simulated preview of the actual bowl game. Dec. 27, 1:00 p.m., The Florida Mall
Popcorn Flick in Winter Park
Families are invited to Central Park to watch a free screening of one of college football's most famous and inspirational stories. "Rudy" captures the essence of college athletics as it chronicles the spirit and determination of an aspiring football player. Dec. 28, 7:00 p.m., Central Park (Winter Park)
Champs Sports Bowl
America's fastest-growing bowl game pits top-tier teams from the Atlantic Coast Conference and Big Ten Conference in prime-time on December 29. Over 15 years old, the Champs Sports Bowl is played in the Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium. Dec. 29, 8:00 p.m., Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium
OrlandoCitrus Parade
Downtown Orlando's most anticipated holiday event, the Orlando Citrus Parade presented by Delta Air Lines features custom citrus floats made of more than 100,000 pieces of grapefruits, oranges, and tangerines. Impressive equestrian units, numerous marching bands from across the country, and many other entries highlight the festivities of this internationally televised parade. Dec. 30, 1:00 p.m., Downtown Orlando
Third Eye Blind Bowl-a-Palooza Concert
Immediately following the Orlando Citrus Parade, Florida Citrus Sports presents the first Bowl-a-Palooza Concert featuring Third Eye Blind. Free of charge, join FCSports as it celebrates the inaugural Bowl-a-Palooza in style with a concert in the park. Dec. 30, 1:00 p.m., Lake Eola
Capital One Bowl
America's premier non-BCS bowl game returns to Orlando in its traditional New Year's Day slot. Held at the Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium, top teams from the Southeastern Conference and Big Ten Conference battle for bragging rights and gridiron superiority. Jan. 1, 1:00 p.m., Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium
For more information:• visit
www.FCSports.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:41 AM
Proposal Package at Renaissance Schaumburg
The biggest proposal day of the year is right around the corner and the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center (Illinois) has an interesting package to make the event that much more memorable. The hotel has partnered with Sam & Harry's Steakhouse to create a complete proposal experience and customizes every moment of your romantic getaway, culminating in a moment that you and your significant other will never forget.
The Renaissance/Sam & Harry's Proposal Package offers a number of elements that are tailored to the specific needs and requests of each of guest.
The Package: • Begin with a town car awaiting your arrival at the airport for transfer to the hotel; the limo will be fully stocked with champagne, chocolates and a custom mixed CD of all your most meaningful romantic tunes.
• Upon arrival at the hotel, you will be escorted to your suite where more music, champagne and your choice of chocolate covered strawberries or oysters await you. The hotel can also arrange for a scattering of roses petals throughout the room.
Options: Once you arrive the romance begins, with a variety of options for you to woo:
¨ Daily wake-up calls with poetry or customized romantic messages for your significant other.
¨ Poetry, special gifts (provided by the guest) or roses as a nightly turndown.
¨ Daily delivery of roses.
The Proposal: For the big night, the package will provide you with a specially prepared dinner at Sam & Harry's Steakhouse. Pop the question in one of these unexpected
ways:
¨ Script your proposal on one of our custom wine bottle labels. When your love is presented with the bottle to offer their approval of your selection, they'll know the intention is for more than a special dinner.
¨ Have your diamond ring arrive nestled among a platter of oysters, just waiting to be discovered.
¨ Embark on a romantic treasure hunt throughout the hotel. The restaurant will arrange for you to enjoy your dinner in stages in private, romantically set spaces throughout the hotel. You just have to follow the clues to your next course, ending with a dessert in your suite where the ring will be waiting.
No matter the method you choose, the hotel will arrange to have a
congratulations bouquet waiting for you upon arrival back in your suite.
The Price: Package begins at $3000 for a 2-ight stay in a suite.
For More Information:To speak with a hotel representative to customize your proposal
experience, please contact the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention
Center at (847) 303-4115, fax (847) 303-4199.
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:58 PM
Arizona Announces Romantic February Packages
We haven't finalized our Christmas plans yet (OK, to be honest, we're still working on Thanksgiving plans!) but the state of Arizona is more forward looking; the Grand Canyon State has announced romantic February packages. It's a good idea to get the jump on Valentine's arrangements so have a look at these getaways:
Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort, TucsonHacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort has always been known as a spot for a cozy and intimate vacation. With the resort’s special “Romance Package,” guests will enjoy accommodations, a 30-minute horseback ride, a 50-minute couples massage and breakfast cooked to order. The package is valid during the entire month of February and is offered at $399 per couple, per night. Call 800-728-6514 for reservations.
Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa, PhoenixUS Airways Magazine named the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa one of the “Sexiest Resorts in America,” and now you can see why first-hand. From February 8-14, the resort is offering the “True Love and Truffles Package,” which features an overnight stay for two, rose petal turndown and champagne and truffles delivered to your room. For those who stay up late or want to linger the next day, the package also includes a 4 p.m. late check out. Package starts at $485 per night. Call 602-225-0100 for more information; when making your reservation be sure to request CHAMPANG code.
Starlight Pines Bed & Breakfast, Flagstaff For a “cool” getaway, head north to Flagstaff, where the Starlight Pines Bed & Breakfast is offering the “February Romance Package.” Guests at this Victorian-style home will delight in two nights accommodations, choice of premium champagne, wine or bubbly cider and a dozen roses. Prices range from $395 to $445, depending on choice of room. The package runs from February 1-28 and can be booked by calling 800-752-1912.
Scottsdale Resort & Athletic ClubThinking about serious romance? Then Scottsdale Resort & Athletic Club’s “Pop the Question Package” is for you! There’s no way she’ll say “no” with two nights accommodations in a one-bedroom deluxe villa, Dom Perignon champagne, a three-course dinner at the resort’s new restaurant, turndown service with chocolates and roses and a champagne breakfast in bed. The package also includes your choice of where to ask: either a hot-air balloon ride or a private dinner on your terrace with butler service. The package starts at $1,599 and runs through the month of February. For information or reservations, call 877-343-0033.
Barcelona Restaurant, ScottsdaleIf you’re looking for an evening of romance that is truly over the top, consider Barcelona Restaurant’s “Ultimate Valentine Package.” For $25,000, couples will experience private chauffeured transportation in a Rolls Royce Phantom, two dozen long-stemmed roses, a private gazebo filled with rose petals at the restaurant, private butler in the gazebo, a bottle of Dom Perignon champagne, two souvenir Waterford Crystal champagne glasses, a five-course dinner, chocolate fountain, a private song and dance, his and hers Cartier watches and a one-night stay at the Presidential Suite at Westin Kierland Resort. Both the restaurant and the resort are located in Scottsdale. This package is only available on February 14. For more information on this one-of-a-kind package, call 480-603-0370.
For More on Arizona:• visit
www.arizonaguide.com• visit
www.arizonavacationvalues.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:52 PM
New Year's Renewal Package in NYC
Every year it's the same thing: we all start out with all kinds of resolutions, right? This year you can put yourself on the right track toward success with those resolutions at the Westin New York at Times Square with a Renewal Now package.
The Package: The weekend getaway includes accommodations in the exclusive lifestyle suite, and all that is needed to get guests lives back on track with appointments throughout the stay that benefit the mind, body, spirit and even the home.
Upon check-in guests will be assigned a Westin Host who will not only ensure a stress-free stay, but also arrange for a one-on-one session with a life coach. In meeting with the lifestyle guru, guests will receive advice on anything from relationships and their professional career to finances and nutrition.
Since re-evaluating one’s life can be exhausting, the package also includes two spa treatments to reflect on what was discussed and revitalize for what is ahead. To help maintain the Zen feeling felt throughout the stay, also included is an appointment with a prominent NYC decorator who will help create a retreat-like experience in guest’s own homes.
For inspiration throughout the year, guests will receive a subscription to a variety of lifestyle publications including Shape, Self, Domino and Elle Decor.
The Renewal Suite is a luxe oasis of soothing calm in the hustle and bustle of Times Square, featuring chromo-therapy, digital art, a spa bath, and tranquil water, light, and music features throughout. Nestled atop the 44th floor of the award-winning hotel with sweeping vistas of the Hudson River, the 1,200-square foot suite features a decompression chamber, 100 LED votive candles, interactive lighting and music features, home gym, spa bath, and more.
Valid November 15, 2006 through February 28, 2007.
Cost: The two-night package starts at $3,995.
For more information:• call 1-888-627-7149
• visit www.westinny.com
• When booking ask for REJUVENA rate plan.
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 7:43 PM
New Year's Eve in Chicago
Sure, we're just making our Thanksgiving plans but it's not too early to start planning your New Year's Eve celebrations. We just received word of New Year’s Eve Rock N’ Roll Ball™ at Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers Hotel. The celebration, which will be broadcast live on the local ABC affiliate in conjunction with Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, will feature live entertainment and a four-hour open bar.
Rates: Rates start at $396 per room, per night based on double occupancy including two tickets to the festivities, perfect for revelers who have someone to kiss at the stroke of midnight or friends seeking to party the night away.
Those hoping to find Mr. or Mrs. Right in the New Year can book a single room and ticket starting at $305 per night, based on single occupancy.
Packages are available now through December 31, 2006. Additional tickets are available starting at $85 each.
Tickets and hotel room packages are available directly through Ticketmaster at (312) 559-1212 or on the web at
www.ticketmaster.com. Type Sheraton Chicago in the search box for package details.
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 7:35 PM
The Fairmont Washington Offering Romeo & Juliet Package
From January through June 2007, more than 40 arts organizations will come together for Shakespeare in Washington, a landmark festival of theater, music, dance, films and art exhibits throughout the D.C. area. The festival coincides with the 75th anniversary of the
Folger Shakespeare Library, not only the world's largest collection of Shakespeare's printed works but also home to art, manuscripts, costumes, and films from the 16th Century to the present. This collection inspires performances, readings, lectures, exhibitions, and publications that will be featured in Shakespeare in Washington.
In honor of Shakespeare in Washington, the Fairmont Washington, D.C. has created the Romeo and Juliet Package. Shakespeare lovers will enjoy a luxurious guestroom with a balcony over looking the hotel's romantic courtyard garden, a DVD of Romeo and Juliet and a special "Love Potion" for two.
Dates: The package is available from January 1, 2007 through June 30, 2007.
The Price: The Romeo and Juliet Package starts at $189 per night. Based on double occupancy and availability, rates do not include taxes or gratuities. Not applicable for group bookings nor combinable with any other promotions or special rates.
For more information:• call 1-800-441-1414
• visit
www.fairmont.com/washingtonLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 10:23 AM
Get Fit Together at The Pines Lodge (Colorado)
Would the two of you like to get fit...together? The Pines Lodge, a RockResort in Beaver Creek, Colorado, is offering Couples Fitness Week. The goal of this week is to educate, encourage, support and help each individual achieve their fitness goals.
The Program: The program will include consultation/testing to create a precise personalized plan. Couples can choose from a Weight Management Package, Cardiovascular Fitness Package, or an Athletic Performance Package – each of which offers specifically geared fitness and nutrition programs. Package includes a daily 50-minute in-room Sports Massage per person, nightly healthy turndown snack, Dogma Athletica custom workout wear and custom facial per person.
Dogma Athletica, meaning “a faith in the athletic process,” is a new 3,400 square foot world-class training center located in Edwards, CO. The center features state-of-the-art fitness equipment such as the largest group Compu Trainer cycling center in Colorado, full metabolic testing, functional strength training equipment, cutting edge plyometrics, a multi-disciplinary yoga studio and individualized custom designed skin therapy treatments. Offering personalized training and coaching sessions, Dogma Athletica provides an individualized exercise approach to strengthen the body, mind and self-esteem.
Clients are matched with a coach who best suits their needs, and go through an in-depth planning and goal-setting consultation process, followed by assessment / metabolic testing. The coach creates a nutritional and workout plan that is catered to each client’s lifestyle. And the plan doesn’t end once guests leave the gym - clients are encouraged to utilize their Dogma Athletica program and trainer by following an online program / consultation from home. The only center of its kind in the Vail Valley, Dogma Athletica’s talented team of coaches, trainers and instructors are accomplished athletes, and the best of the best in their fields.
Rates: Rates start at $955 per night for the Weight Management Package, and $1,082 per night for the Athletic Performance Package. Prices based on couple staying in Lodge room at The Pines Lodge and both participating in the fitness program. Seven-night minimum stay required. This package is available through December 2007. You'll need this promo code: 7CFITNESS
Tax and gratuity not included. Subject to availability and blackout dates apply.
For More Information:• visit
www.rockresorts.com or
vbcrp.com • call 866-605-ROCK (7625)
• For more information about Dogma Athletica, visit
www.dogmaathletica.com.
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 11:06 AM
Bachelorette Boot Camp!
Looking for a way to tone up and look your best before the big day? Here's an interesting package that just came across the Lovetripper desk: Bachelorette Boot Camp, offered at The Pines Lodge, a RockResort in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Brides-to-be are invited to achieve physical and emotional enlightenment by learning how to condition their body and mind with trained coaches.
The Package: The boot camp package includes before and after pictures, metabolic rate and body composition testing to create a personal fitness and nutrition plan, daily individual training sessions with certified coaches, two-hour yoga session, 50-minute in-room Sports Massage, a customized fitness and nutrition plan with continual online support and guidance leading up to the wedding day. Also includes: Fitness Rx for the skin with personal skin analysis, custom facials and custom products to take home, nightly healthy turndown snack, personalized t-shirt and sweatshirts for the bachelorette party, and meal planning guidelines. You'll need this promo code: 7CBOOTCAMP. This package is available through December 2007.
The Cost: Rates start at $680 per person, per night based on double occupancy. Three-night minimum stay required.
For More Information:• visit
www.rockresorts.com or
vbcrp.com • call 866-605-ROCK (7625)
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 10:51 AM
NYC's Exchange Hotel Tempts Lovers with Chocolate Covered Weekend
Calling all Chocoholics! The newly renovated Exchange Hotel, located in lower Manhattan, serves up a delicious getaway for lovers with the Chocolate Covered Weekend.
The Package: This two-night package includes:
• two nights in a spacious suite
• two complimentary Mexican Chocolate Mojitos or non-alcoholic Aztec Iced Chocolate at the Exchange Lounge
• special delivery of a chocolate pizza and wings from New York’s own Chocolate Pizza Company and a six-pack of Coke or Diet Coke
• a private walking tour of Manhattan’s most notable chocolate hallmarks, led by Carmen Botez of Chocolate Zoom Magazine
This three-hour tour will include stops at:
• Christopher Norman Chocolates in the Financial District
• Vosges Haut-Chocolat which is a compelling world of wonder with its carefully decorated interior and its tasteful concept
• Kee’s Chocolates where guests will have the chance to see the owner of the shop making the chocolates
• MarieBelle, in Soho
• Jaques Torres‚ new boutique in Hudson Square where the manager will offer a private tour and explain the inner workings of chocolate, while guests can enjoy watching people making chocolate in the factory.
The whole journey will conclude with a tasting of truffles and the Hot Wicked Fun in the boutique.
The Price: Chocolate Covered Weekend is available for $1200, double occupancy and is inclusive of tax and service charges, now until December 16, 2006, subject to availability. This rate shows a 24 % savings off rack rates. Winter 2007 rates are $1000 and reflect a 32% savings. Advanced reservations are strongly advised.
Why It’s Dreamy: Relaunched in April 2006 as the Exchange Hotel, this 53-room boutique hotel is nestled moments away from Wall Street’s flurry and only a short distance from the South Street Seaport and Historic Front Street. The property offers dynamic amenities like WiFi access, flat-screen TVs, full kitchens, and exceptional guest service.
The Exchange Hotel is also the Premier Hotel Partner for the upcoming 9th Annual Chocolate Show in New York City, a three-day festival devoted entirely to chocolate. This year’s event takes place at the Metropolitan Pavillion & Altman Building on November 10-12, 2006.
For more information:• visit
www.chocolateshow.com
More Information on the Exchange Hotel:• call 212-742-0003
• visit
www.exchangehotel.comLabels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:16 PM
Don't Forget North Carolina for Fall Foliage
Think of fall color and you no doubt picture the US Northeast thanks to the spectacular foliage displays. North Carolina, one of our favorite states especially near the Smoky Mountains, is also boasting a lot of color this month; they've set up a hotline so you can track the week's best displays. We received some suggested romantic drives in the mountains where you'll find plenty of fall color:
Cherohala Skyway National Scenic Byway97 miles southwest of Asheville
For a glimpse of nature’s beauty beyond compare, travel the 41-mile Cherohala Skyway that connects N.C. Highway 143 from Robbinsville to U.S. Highway 165 in western North Carolina. Often compared with the Blue Ridge Parkway, it follows the crest of the Unicoi Mountains in the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forest, thus the name. The highest point reaches 5,390 ft. Visitors can enjoy majestic views of nature or picnic above the clouds at one of the many overlooks.
Tail of the Dragon (motorcyclist favorite)
10 miles from Boone
This is one of the best places in the U.S. to test drive your skills and courage on a motorcycle or in a car. The drive begins in North Carolina at Cheoah Dam where Harrison Ford jumped off the bridge in “The Fugitive.” The drive encompasses 318 curves in approximately 11 miles with beautiful scenery. Brag to everyone that you “slayed the dragon!”
Hidden Gems along the Blue Ridge Parkway (insider’s favorite)
Check out these little known scenic routes along the Blue Ridge Parkway. In the northwestern part of the state, N.C. Highway 18 between Sparta and West Jefferson will link visitors to these two stops that preserve the small-town feel of the Southern Appalachians. In Sparta, don’t miss Farmer’s Hardware or the quaint main street shops. In West Jefferson, take the downtown walking tours of murals and the Ashe County Cheese Factory. Southbound travelers can pick up N.C. Highway 18 by exiting the Parkway at Milepost 229 and taking U.S. Highway 21 to Sparta. Northbound travelers can exit the Parkway onto U.S. Highway 421 at Milepost 281, then follow the signs to West Jefferson. In either direction, the scenery nourishes the soul, with small, idyllic farms and sparkling streams along the way.
For More Information:• Fall Color Hotline: 1-866-6LEAVES (866-653-2837)
• Fall Fishing Hotline: 1-888-2 FISH NC (888-234-7462)
• General Travel Information: 1-800-VISIT NC (800-847-4862)
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 1:34 PM
Say "I Do" at NYC's The Kimberly Hotel
Looking for a wedding or reception venue in New York City? The Kimberly Hotel, a European-style boutique hotel, can host your vows...and put a lot of wow into your reception as well.
Wedding and Reception Venues: The Penthouse, an 1150-square foot private event space with a large wraparound terrace, occupies the entire top floor of The Kimberly Hotel and is an ideal location for intimate weddings. This accommodating space, encompassed with picturesque views of the city, combines sophistication and awe with its breathtaking views and luxurious ambiance.
Nikki Midtown and Ferro’s restaurant, the Kimberly’s two dining options are great for accommodating wedding celebrations such as bachelor/ bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, and elegantly catered receptions. Nikki Midtown is the ultimate restaurant/lounge with chic, signature style and ambiance while Ferro’s restaurant boasts superb continental cuisine.
Why It’s Dreamy: The Kimberly’s 192 guestrooms and suites include Signature Collection‚ suites that are perfect for hosting posh bridal party functions and Luxury Collection‚ accommodations, which occupy the 22nd and 23rd floors and are ideal for entertaining out of town wedding guests in style. The suites in the recently unveiled Luxury Collection include personal amenities such as designer furnishings, marble baths http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif
with jetted tubs, the finest Mascioni‚ Italian linens, plasma-screen televisions with DVD players, free wireless internet service, floor-to-ceiling wet bars, private balconies overlooking the New York cityscape and spacious living rooms for those seeking comfort in the lap of luxury.
Amenities available to all Kimberly guests include superior appointments and customized services as well as complimentary use of the renowned New York Health and Racquet Club and
boarding of their private 75-foot yacht for 3-hour scenic cruises along the Hudson River in sailing season, May through September. The Kimberly Hotel’s yacht is additionally available for private charter and special events.
The Kimberly Hotel is located at 145 East 50th Street in New York City.
For more information:• visit
• call (800) 683-0400
Labels: USA, weddings
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 5:46 PM
Fall Foliage Options in the Northeast
It's not too late to make some leaf peeping plans in the Northeast. The folks at
Bedandbreakfast.com have release their picks of good options for fall foliage viewing; here are their choices in the US Northeast:
Old Mystic Inn, Old Mystic, CT: Located in the peaceful hamlet of Old Mystic, yet just minutes from all the attractions of downtown Mystic. Rates: $145-195.
Mountain View Inn, Norfolk, CT: Framed by a brilliant sugar maple tree, this century-old Victorian inn sits on a hilltop, with vistas of the Litchfield Hills in all directions. Rates: $110-250.
Devonfield Country Inn, Lee, MA: This 1800s country home on a pastoral 29-acre estate is surrounded by colorful fall foliage with the rolling tapestry of the Berkshire mountains beyond. Rates: $225-325 nightly.
Inn at Sunrise Point, Camden, ME: Soak up fabulous views of Penobscot Bay from private decks and patios. Set between the sea and mountains of Camden Hills State Park. Rates: $230-510.
Victorian by the Sea, Camden, ME: Beautiful foliage views are enhanced by vistas of schooners sailing on Penobscot Bay. The inn is perfect base for hikes to the Camden Hills or exploring the colors of Midcoast Maine. Rates: $160-235.
Aunt Louise's Lake House B&B, Skaneateles, NY: Relax on the porch overlooking park like lawns dotted with colorful foliage, and take in views of Skaneateles Lake in the distance. Rates: $110-165.
Adair Country Inn, Bethlehem, NH: This 200-acre wooded estate in the White Mountains with private walking trails and gardens offer splendid foliage vistas. Rates: $245-375.
Darby Field Inn, Conway, NH: See breathtaking views of the Moat Mountain Range up to Mount Washington from the dining room and many of the inn's rooms. Rates: $160-290.
Cliff Park Inn, Milford, PA: The only lodging located in the 70,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Park, this hilltop inn is surrounded by a nine-hole golf course and miles of trails sporting the reds, oranges and yellows of fall foliage. Rates: $129-249.
Four Columns Inn, Newfane, VT: Tucked into the base of a mountain, brilliant foliage surrounds this inn and acclaimed restaurant. Rates: $160-385.
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:51 PM
Renew Your Romance with Hawaiian Vow Renewal Program
HONOLULU, OAHU, HAWAII - Fifty years after falling in love, couples are heading for Hawaii to re affirm their romance, sometimes as a duo, but increasingly, together with their children and even grandchildren. And, they keep adding pages to Luana Maitland's memory book.
Maitland is the events and activities manager at the Outrigger Reef on the Beach in Waikiki, Hawaii. One of her responsibilities includes the hotel's popular Hawaiian Vow Renewal Ceremony program, a free activity for its guests and guests staying at its sister property, Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach. Since the program's inception, more than 4,000 vows have been exchanged on the sands of famed Waikiki Beach, in front of the Outrigger Reef.
"We talk with our guests on a regular basis," Maitland said. "I heard many, many stories of how couples would've liked to have gotten married in Hawaii on the beach, but weren't able to because their families wanted the wedding to take place back home, or because they couldn't afford a trip to Hawaii back then. Some of them have waited 50 years to take their first romantic trip to Hawaii."
Maitland consulted with the hotel's Hawaiian cultural advisor, and together with a team of employees, introduced the Hawaiian Vow Renewal Ceremony, a non-denominational ceremony on the sands of Waikiki Beach in which couples recite their vows in the Hawaiian language and are honored by a Hawaiian kahu (priest) with chanting, traditional hula dance and song. Each ceremony is open to a limited number of couples in order to retain a sense of intimacy.
Kimberly Agas, Outrigger's vice president of operations overseeing both the Outrigger Reef and Outrigger Waikiki hotels, credits the Vow Renewal Ceremony's popularity to its location and the authenticity of the cultural experience, both of which are hallmarks of Outrigger's beachfront properties.
"Outrigger Reef and Outrigger Waikiki sit directly on the sands of Waikiki Beach," Agas said. "For couples, it's more than just a beautiful place; it's Waikiki Beach, legendary as one of the most romantic places on earth.
"We also take great pride in our commitment to celebrating and sharing our islands' history and heritage. The Hawaiian Vow Renewal Ceremony was developed with the guidance of a Hawaiian cultural expert, and draws upon an ancient custom called ho'ao pa'a, in which a man and woman formed a lasting union together. So in addition to being romantic, our ceremony is also a culturally rich experience, which is something we want all of our guests to enjoy when they stay with us."
One of Maitland's favorite vow renewals took place this summer: a pair of parents and four of their grown children, plus spouses, who renewed their vows on Waikiki Beach as a group, witnessed by their grandchildren. The family vow renewal was in celebration of marriages ranging from 4 to 39 years.
Another fond memory involved a visiting youth baseball team staying at the hotel. "One of the coaches wanted to surprise his wife at our vow renewal," Maitland recalls. "She was the team mother and chaperone. The entire team served as their witness, and presented the couple with a tiki to commemorate the event.
"
Vow Renewal CeremonyOutrigger's Hawaiian Vow Renewal Ceremony is open to registered guests of the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach and Outrigger Reef on the Beach, and takes place every Tuesday and Friday at 8:00 a.m. Couples must sign up at their respective hotel's concierge desk by 3:00 p.m. the day before. A commemorative certificate to remember the day is presented to each couple at the conclusion of the ceremony.
For more information:• call 800-OUTRIGGER (1-800-688-7444) within the United States, Guam and Canada.
• call direct to 303-369-7777 (long distance charges apply)
• visit
www.outriggerwaikiki.com or
www.outriggerreef.comLabels: USA, vow renewals
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:38 PM
Downtown Destination Weddings
Beach ceremonies aren't the only option for destination weddings...are you perhaps considering a downtown destination wedding? City weddings can be perfect for a weekend wedding giving your guests can walk to downtown attractions. We interview the wedding planner of the Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Center for advice on
planning a downtown wedding.
Labels: USA, weddings
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 9:00 PM
Wedding Weekend in Vermont's Basin Harbor Club
The Basin Harbor Club, one of Vermont's premier destination wedding locations, is offering the ultimate in all-inclusive wedding packages. In addition to exclusive use of the entire 700+ acre resort-- including 77 lakeside cottages, a golf course, private air landing strip, an elegant dining room, and spectacular views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack mountains--wedding parties will benefit from an experienced staff of 250, whose only purpose for the weekend is to make sure every detail of the wedding is perfect.
What It Includes: - unique additions such as lakeside cottage accommodations for up to 150 guests
- rehearsal dinner at the resort's formal dining room
- all meals, snacks and alcohol for the wedding party and guests
- fireworks
- a first anniversary stay for the couple
- a jazz brunch
- custom letterpress invitations
- Adirondack chairs for the bride and groom
- a professional photographer
- favors for the guests
Price: The Ultimate Wedding Weekend at Basin Harbor costs $250,000. The first wedding weekend will be available spring 2007.
Why It's Dreamy: Basin Harbor Club was established in 1886 by Ardelia Beach and has remained family owned for 120 years. Today, guests are greeted by fourth generation hosts, Pennie Beach and Robert H. Beach, Jr. Originally a 225-acre working farm catering to summer boarders, the resort has expanded to cover 700 acres of Vermont's most pristine land along the shores of Lake Champlain, encompassing the main lodge, cottages, a private golf course, spectacular gardens, a 3,200 foot grass airstrip, and the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, an organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Lake Champlain.
For a complete list of services and amenities: • visit
www.basinharbor.com/ultimatewedding • call 1-800-622-4000
Labels: USA, weddings
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:55 AM
Traveling in Tense Times
Today's news of the terrorist plot against US-bound planes leaves many travelers wondering how to best enjoy romantic travel during such high security times. Be sure to read our five-part article
"Romantic Travel in High Security Times" for tips on everything from flying safely to trip cancellation insurance to staying secure at your destination.
If you're flying this month, be sure to check with your airline
before you leave home for the latest recommendations in terms of carry-ons (and especially what not to carry on), check-in times, delays, and cancellations. Travelers to and from the UK will face special challenges in terms of carry-ons. You'll find a detailed explanation on most carrier's websites such as this page on
American Airlines. Basically, don't plan to carry a purse, just a wallet in a clear bag.
Some carriers are relaxing their rules and fees regarding rebooking; check with your carrier for the latest.
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:43 PM
Weddings in Maggie Valley, North Carolina
Just a couple of weeks ago we returned from the Smoky Mountains, a lovely area that's becoming increasingly popular as a wedding destination. While
Gatlinburg is home to the lion's share of wedding chapels in the area, you'll also find a charming chapel on the "quiet" side of the mountains in Maggie Valley.
Read more...Labels: USA, weddings
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 4:48 PM
Florida's Pink Shell Beach Resort Offering Wedding Packages
ESTERO ISLAND, Fla. – August 9, 2006 – Pink Shell Beach Resort & Spa, Ft Myers Beach’s premiere family destination for over 50 years, has introduced new destination wedding packages. Whether it is a beachside wedding set along the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico against the backdrop of Southwest Florida’s famous sunset, a poolside celebration, or a black-tie affair in the resort’s Lido Grand Ballroom with views of Matanzas Bay, Pink Shell Beach Resort & Spa’s new destination wedding packages offers couples a lifetime of cherished memories.
Destination weddings are a growing trend for couples uninterested in the planning and costs involved in hosting a traditional wedding. Destination wedding also provide couples with an opportunity to create a more personalized event. With family and friends often scattered throughout the country, a destination wedding at a resort such as the Pink Shell can also serve as a family reunion, as well as a mini-vacation or weekend getaway for guests who can enjoy water sports, beachside and poolside activities, a full-service spa and the many other amenities offered at the resort.
Pink Shell’s professional catering staff work closely with the couple to assist in coordinating every detail - from the wedding ceremony to the reception that follows. To make it easy and affordable for couples planning a destination wedding, Pink Shell also offers three destination wedding packages:
White Sands Package - $1000 plus 20% service charge and 6% tax, includes:
Wedding Ceremony Setup (Decorated Arch, Chairs, Urns with Topiary trees, Tiki Torches)
Bride’s Wedding Bouquet
Groom’s Boutonniere
Wedding Coordination Services
Taped/CD Music
Captiva Package - $2100.00 plus 20% Service Charge and 6% tax, includes:
Wedding Ceremony Setup (Decorated Arch, Chairs, Urns with Topiary trees, Tiki Torches)
Bride’s Wedding Bouquet
Groom’s Boutonniere
Wedding Coordination Services
Taped/CD Music
Champagne Toast - For up to 25 guests
Dinner at JoJo’s - For up to 25 guests
Banyan Package - $2700.00 plus 20% service charge & 6% tax (valid 05/01/06- 12/20/06 and 05/01/07-12/20/07); $2900.00 plus 20% service charge & 6% tax (valid 12/21/06 - 04/30/07), includes:
Wedding Ceremony Setup (Decorated Arch, Chairs, Urns with Topiary trees, Tiki Torches)
Bride’s Wedding Bouquet
Groom’s Boutonniere
Wedding Coordination Services
Taped/CD Music
Champagne Toast - For up to 25 guests
Dinner at JoJo’s - For up to 25 guests
Welcome Amenity
Honeymoon Suite – 1 Night Stay @ 1 Br White Sands Villa
Couples Massage at Aquagïne
Why It's Dreamy: Pink Shell Beach Resort & Spa offers wedding couples and their guests a myriad of accommodations and amenities, including studio, one or two-bedroom accommodations; a full-service, state-of-the-art spa for couples and the whole family; water sports activities; two restaurants; KiddsKampp, an adult-supervised children’s and youth program and “Octopool,” an expansive pool and terrace area.
Located on Estero Island along the beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel, the 12-acre Pink Shell Beach Resort & Spa caters to families and small groups seeking a memorable four-star resort experience. The property features a broad range of facilities and amenities, including Aquagene, a 6,000 square foot, state of the art full-service spa, meetings facilities, 180 deluxe rooms, two restaurants, KiddsKampp®, a specialized children’s program with separate activities for teens, and a myriad of water sports activities.
For information:• call 1-888-309-2912
• visit
Pink Shell Beach Resort Labels: USA, weddings
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 4:44 PM
Atlantic City Open for Travelers
You've probably heard the news about Atlantic City's casinos closing their doors for the time being due to New Jersey budget impasse. We received word today, though, that Atlantic City is open and welcoming travelers:
The casino floors may be off limits during the New Jersey State budget shut-down, but the rest of Atlantic City is Always Turned On and ready to entertain you in style.
The beach is beautiful, the lifeguards are on duty and the beach bars have a full complement of your favorite beverages and munchies – all the things that made summer at the Jersey Shore famous. In addition, there are a myriad of entertainment, shopping and dining options available.
“We have everything a great destination can offer,” said Jeffrey Vasser, executive director of the Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority. “The only thing affected by the shutdown of state operations is the gambling. Everything else is fully operational.”
While the casinos remain dark, the hotels, restaurants, showrooms, spas and shops connected to them remain open. Atlantic City offers a variety of retail/dining/ entertainment districts, including the new The Pier at Caesars, which opened the end of June, The Quarter at Tropicana and Atlantic City Outlets-The Walk. The House of Blues at Showboat also offers an extensive dining and entertainment complex.
“There are great restaurants and nightclubs to explore outside of the casinos, too,” said Vasser, “plus amusements, history and art museums, boat cruises, parasailing, fishing, water sports, an aquarium, miniature golf, baseball and more. Atlantic City is still THE place to have fun, day or night.”
For more information:
• visit www.atlanticcitynj.com
• call 1-888-AC-VISIT
Labels: USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 5:22 PM
The traditional romantic winter getaway: a roaring fire, lace curtains, chintz and plenty of candles. A great alternative: an active winter vacation that makes your romance sizzle.
