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
Belize's Kanantik Offers Honeymoon Package
Kanantik, which means "to take care" in the Maya Mopan language, is custom designed for lovers--all the way down to its one-of-a-kind furniture. Surprising touches--from an Italian wood-fired pizza oven to two-person rock-lined showers--await. After a gourmet meal and relaxing evening under the stars, couples can then retreat to their secluded beachfront cabana with its charming four-poster bed.
Now we've received word that Kanantik is offering a special Romantic Honeymoon package--perfect for couples that want to head out from the hustle and bustle of their wedding to a relaxing destination that offers not just a romantic setting but plenty of ecotourism activities.
The Package: Kanantik’s Romantic Honeymoon package includes:
6-nights accommodations in a beachside, fully air-conditioned, secluded thatched roof cabaña with wrap-around deck that includes a king size four-post bed- Roundtrip direct transfer flight from Belize International airport to Kanantik's private airstrip, with transfer to resort
- Belizean Welcome cocktail
- One chilled bottle of Môet & Chandon Champagne
- Flowers, flowers and more flowers
- Romantic seaside candlelight dinner
- Full meal plan: a la carte breakfast, lunch, three-course dinner
- Coffee, teas, soft drinks and fresh squeezed juices are daily (alcohol beverages and wines are not included)
- Three tours:
- Exploring Cockscomb Basin Jaguar Preserve looking for black howler monkeys, birds, wild flowers, exotic trees - half day
- Snorkeling at the barrier reef at South Water Caye marine reserve - full day
- Xunantunich Mayan ruin - full day trip across Belize to the western Guatemalan border; lunch at Clarissa Fall includes typical Belizean food
- Room service
- Unlimited use of sea kayaks and Hobie Cats
- Oceanfront swimming pool and whirlpool
- Internet access in main lodge
- Laundry service
- Park entrance fees
Price: $4,185 (US Dollars, per couple and includes all government taxes and service charges)
Why It's Dreamy: Kanantik is located on 300 acres, just four miles from the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, a national park dedicated to jaguar preservation. The resort offers 25 secluded oceanfront cabanas designed with an ancient Mayan feel and accented with a touch of contemporary Belizean flair. Adventures at Kanantik include outings to the nearby jaguar preserve, canoeing in the nearly unchartered Cabbage Haul Creek, bird watching and scenic hikes to spectacular waterfalls. Guests can also explore the nearby coast with Hobie Cats and sea kayaks available at the resort. Snorkeling and SCUBA diving excursions with certified dive masters can also be arranged directly from the resort.
For More Information:Photos courtesy Kanantik Reef & Jungle ResortLabels: Caribbean
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 5:28 PM
Mango Bay, Barbados Offers Vow Renewal Package
We love vow renewals...they're romantic, so easy to plan compared to a wedding, and so very memorable. We've just received word of a new Renewal of Vows package at the boutique-style all-inclusive, Mango Bay, Barbados.
"We're honored to afford couples new romantic memories through Mango Bay's Renewal of Vows package," said Peter Odle, owner. "Our wedding services provide stress-free planning for couples, allowing them to unwind and remember why they fell in love in the first place," he added.
The Package: Mango Bay's Renewal of Vows package features:
- Personalized services of a wedding coordinator
- Clergyman to perform the ceremony
- Decoration of a wedding arch at a location on-propert
- Boutonnière for the groom and wedding bouquet for the bride
- One bottle of champagne
- A one-tier, 12" light sponge cake with icing
Price: The Renewal of Vows package is priced at US$750, which is added on to the cost of a all-inclusive hotel stay at Mango Bay. The resort also offers add-ons to enhance the day: 24 photographs with album (US$450), 24 photographs with album plus 40 digital photographs (US$650), one hour of live steel band music (US$300), additional champagne (US$100 per bottle), video (US$750), more bouquets (US$50), a hair garland (US$30), buttonholes (US$25), and hairdressing services (starting at US$75). Prices are subject to change.
Room Rates: Rates start at $385 in standard accommodations now through Dec. 14, 2009. Rates quoted are per room, per night, based on double occupancy. Prices are available in other room categories including Standard One-Bedroom Apartment, Superior, Deluxe, Oceanfront, and Penthouse Suite.
What It Includes: A Mango Bay all-inclusive vacation features hotel accommodations, all meals, afternoon tea, all local and brand name drinks including wine with dinner, watersports (waterskiing, hobiecat sailing, kayaking and snorkeling) and nightly entertainment. Spa treatments can be arranged on property for an additional fee at Elements Spa.
Why It's Dreamy: Located in the historic Holetown area on the famed Gold Coast of Barbados, the 76-room Mango Bay is a beachfront, boutique-style property. The property is within walking distance of many shops in Holetown, 25 minutes from the capital city of Bridgetown, and 40 minutes from Grantley Adams International Airport.
For more information:Photo courtesy Mango Bay, BarbadosLabels: Caribbean, vow renewals
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:35 PM
Atlantis Announces Sun, Fun and Romance Package
The kids are back in school...are you ready to sneak off for a few days of sun, fun and romance? Then check out this package we just received from Atlantis, the mega-resort in the Bahamas. We've stayed at this property and know that it has something to offer all lovers, from spa to scuba, beaches to blackjack, dolphin interactions to disco action.
The "Love Atlantis Style - Sun, Fun and Romance" package starts at $299 per adult (a savings of over $600!)
The Package: The Sun, Fun and Romance Package includes:
- Three nights accommodations per person
- Complimentary one-day access to the ultra-chic Cain at the Cove pool
- Couple’s choice of dolphin or sea lion interaction at Atlantis’ 14-acre dolphin interaction and education center, Dolphin Cay
- Choice of snorkeling with manta rays in the Ruins Lagoon or a round of golf at the Ocean Club Golf Course
- Sushi and sake sampler at the world-renowned restaurant Nobu
- One margarita per person at Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill
- One Sunset martini per person at Jean Goerge’s Dune at One & Only Ocean Club
Rates: Rates start at only $299 per adult for a four day/three night stay at this luxury destination. Rates are based on double occupancy with a Sunday or Monday arrival.
Dates: This package is effective for travel through Oct. 31, 2009.
The Fine Print: This offer is valid for new bookings only and must be booked by 10/31/09. Add up to $119 per person for mandatory taxes, mandatory housekeeping gratuities, utility service fees and service charges. Other categories and dates available upon request. Weekend, holiday and peak period surcharges apply. All rates, availability and offers are subject to change without notice and are not combinable with any other offer. Not applicable to groups and restrictions apply. Rates are based on hotel only and cost of transfers is additional. Inclusions expire on check out, no credit for unused components.
For More Information:Photo courtesy AtlantisLabels: Caribbean
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 12:15 PM
Vegas Hotel Offers Naughty or Nice Packages
Would you like your next Vegas getaway to be naughty...or nice? The Signature at MGM Grand is leaving the choice up to you with their two new "Naughty or Nice" packages starting November 1. Both offer plenty of activities plus a stay in the all-suite, non-smoking, non-gaming hotel that's just steps from the activity of MGM Grand. The primary difference in the packages is whether the fun you choose is naughty...or nice. Which will you choose? C'mon...we won't tell...
“Naughty” Package: The Signature at MGM Grand's "Naughty" Package offers the following:
- 40% discount at MGM Grand’s Crazy Horse Paris
- Admission for two to Studio 54 or Tabú Ultra Lounge
- Vodka shot station in-suite welcome amenity
- $75 beverage credit (to be used at Signature or MGM Grand Pools, WET REPUBLIC, Studio 54 or Tabú Ultra Lounge)
- Turndown service with surprise romance gift
Price: Rates start at $129 per night for a junior suite. Package is based on a two-night minimum stay. Additional taxes and resort fees may apply.
Booking Code: To book the Naughty Package, use booking code PKG021.
“Nice” Package: The Signature at MGM Grand's "Naughty" Package offers the following:
- 40% discount at Cirque du Soleil’s KÀ
- Breakfast in bed
- $25 spa credit
- Champagne and strawberries in-suite welcome amenity
- Turndown service with surprise romance gift
Price: Rates starting at $129 per night for a junior suite. Package is based on a two-night minimum stay. Additional taxes and resort fees may apply.
Booking code: To book the Nice Package, use booking code PKG022.
Package Dates: Book now and travel November 1 – December 28, 2009.
To Book:- call (877) 727-0007 and use the “Naughty” or “Nice” booking code above.
For More Information:Photo courtesy The Signature at MGM Grand Labels: Las Vegas
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:59 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
ME Cancun Debuts SuiteME
Looking for a really unique bachelorette venue for a getaway for you and your bridesmaids? Check out the new SuiteME, the suite that played home to to The Real World® Cancun.
Located at ME Cancun, SuiteME iw a 9757-square-foot, bi-level suite that recently hosted the cast of "The Real World" Cancun. The mega-suite comes equipped with lavish amenities, highly-stylized furnishings, sweeping views of the Caribbean, and all the comforts of home--and more.
When you and your guests step over the threshold of the expansive foyer located on the suite's top level, you'll be immediately greeted by saltwater fish, housed in a spherical aquarium and surrounded by a circular, yellow cushioned seating area. The top floor also features a fully-stocked bar, a purple felt pool table and a deck outfitted with comfy, blue couches and chaise lounges. An outdoor, spiral staircase winds down to the main level of the suite onto a second balcony and into the main living area. A hammock for lounging, a high-top table for dining al-fresco and views overlooking ME Cancun's adult-only pool area make this the most serene of the three balconies. Adjacent to the "Serene Balcony," you'll will find a cozy living-room space. Sumptuous couches entice guests to relax while a coffee table with built-in sand boxes brings the beach inside.
The living-room transitions into an open-plan, extra large kitchen surrounded by windows on all sides for unobstructed views of the ocean. The fully equipped kitchen comes complete with a refrigerator, full range stove with oven, microwave, coffee maker and all the cooking utensils necessary to entertain and create a perfect dining experience. The oversized mosaic countertop is ideal for serving buffets or blending margaritas while guests hang-out on eight red, leather bar stools. Guests can eat family style at the blue-glass kitchen table or even ask ME Cancun's chef to create a Mexican masterpiece for the entire group. ME Cancun's culinary team is also available to teach Mexican cooking lessons in SuiteME.
Voyeuristic Elements: Built in the tradition of "Real World" voyeurism, SuiteME's personality is captured through a number of design elements all located in the heart of the suite; a uniquely-placed set of showers; four, deep sink-bowls which face each other and feature a double sided mirror; and a 10-person hot tub. Enclosed by strategically placed, clouded glass, the showers feature two oversized rain-shower heads in each of the two stalls, handheld power jets, and natural Aveda amenities. From the foyer above, guests can look down into the 10-person, blue, bronze, and gold mosaic-tiled hot tub, which is perfect for late night fun.
The Phone Room: "The Real World's" iconic Phone Room adds another voyeuristic element - located adjacent to SuiteME's living-room it is enclosed in glass and features an old-style phone, canopy bed, and an indoor garden of local flora. Guests looking for more privacy need not worry; cordless telephones, plasma screen televisions, showers with deluxe rain-shower heads and personal vanity areas are available in each of the four guest rooms.
When It's Time to Play: Along with the fully-stocked, private bar and purple pool table located on the top level, SuiteME boasts "The Playroom" outfitted with a plasma flat screen television, which doubles as a computer with complimentary internet access, iPod docking stations and iPods preloaded with a variety of genres of music. Games such as Monopoly® and Trivia Pursuit® and a library of books are available as well as two massage chairs for guests to unwind in after a tough day or night of playing. "The Playroom" is also fully "game operational" with a Nintendo Wii® gaming console, Rock Band® equipment - and plenty of room for different groups of people to play at the same time. For a quick escape outdoors, "The Playroom" connects to SuiteME's ultra-private third balcony called "Balcony X," with room for 10 to hang-out, enjoy cocktails, and enjoy views of The Caribbean.
SuiteME guests have access to all the facilities of ME Cancun including the water ritual pool, the infinity pool and the adult-only pool, the ME fitness center, Yhi Spa, e-space, and the property's three restaurants; Silk, Salt and Rande Gerber's Maxim Beach House.
For More Information: Photos courtesy ME CancunLabels: Mexico
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 8:45 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.
