Most people when they read Homer’s The Odyssey, think that the hero of the story perseveres in his journey to return to his faithful wife. Once you consider, however that he was a king and probably lived in a place similar to the Delenia Villa in Ewia, you will probably see things differently. Forget Penelope, the reason Odysseus didn’t dawdle with a goddess divine or throw hours away in friendly conversation with a Cyclops was because his home probably looked a lot like this luxury villa.... Read More
Located in Sultanahmet, The Four Seasons Istanbul was originally an Ottoman Empire prison. Used to detain political prisoners, including famous Turkish poet and communist revolutionary Nazim Hikmet, the neoclassically designed jail was converted into a luxury hotel in 1996. Nestled in the heart of Istanbul’s "Old City," the building is only a stroll away from grand historical attractions like the 17th century Blue Mosque or the 6th century St. Sophia. The former penitentiary now houses 65 opulent guest rooms and suites run by over 200 dedicated multilingual staff.... Read More
Luxury cruise line Crystal Cruises has announced their intent to take their passengers off-the-beaten-path during their Mediterranean Cruise season. Aside from the usual destinations, Crystal ships will, for the first time, be making stops in Canakkale, Turkey; La Spezia, Italy; and Castellón de la Plana, Spain. Senior Vice President Sales and Marketing for the brand, Jack Anderson said, “After sailing for more than two decades, we’re thrilled to still be finding novel destinations for our guests to discover, and combine them with much beloved locales to which they also love returning, time and time again.”... Read More
The AAA Four Diamond Resort, Sonnenalp was opened by the Bavarian Faessler family, whose luxury hotel in the old country was known for personalized service and beautiful surroundings. The Vail location was opened in the late 1970s, but the apple didn’t fall far from the tree, as the resort still promises impeccable service and beautiful views. Unlike its Bavarian parent property, the Sonnenalp Resort of Vail is an STI Eco-Certified Luxury Hotel, the first of its kind in the western United States. Long-term sustainable tourism is something that the resort strives to achieve, minimizing the impact of tourism on the local people and their environment.... Read More
Brazil is perhaps best known for its barely-there bikinis, but second on the list of Brazilian treasures would have to be its beautiful beaches. Kenoa Exclusive Beach Spa & Resort offers to help elite travelers make the best of that famed coastline with their state-of-the-art facilities. Instead of experiencing those beaches with other cooler-toting tourists stepping all over your tranquility, Kenoa promises to “expand your journey, while ensuring your privacy.” The Design Hotels resort was built with the surrounding natural environment in mind, using fragrant woods and calming colors to engage all of your senses in luxury.... Read More
Attending the recent red-carpeted Cinémoi launch party to celebrate the net’s arrival to North America gave me hope to a dawn of a new day for the better broadcasting we so desperately need. Cinémoi is “the first and only channel dedicated to film, fashion and lifestyle on DIRECTV.” Naturally, I am already a fan where on one station I’m able to watch... Read More
Shanghai might have the fashion flair and Hong Kong has the finance factor, but don’t discount Beijing. The Chinese capital has to be one of Asia’s most fascinating destinations thanks to a history that dates back to ancient times, proximity to picturesque sections of the Great Wall, cutting-edge arts and architecture, and a steadily improving food and nightlife scene.... Read More
Located in the heart of Grace Bay, Providenciales, Seven Stars Resort is a vision of natural beauty, surrounded by swaying palms and turquoise water. The Resort’s 107 guestrooms are spread out over three sprawling oceanfront buildings, but remain within walking distance of the area's premier restaurants, shopping, and bars.... Read More
As the longest continually sailing luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, Paul Gauguin Cruises' flagship m/s Paul Gauguin has won a number of awards, including Porthole’s 2012 “Best South Pacific Itinerary.” Instead of making them cocky, as it had the potential to, it seems that this award, and others like it, have only encouraged the company to further their opulent offerings—specifically the addition of Paul Gauguin Cruises' newest ship Tere Moana back in July. 2 to 6... Read More
Whether you live in San Francisco or will just be visiting for the holidays, make sure you check out these cheer-inducing events going on throughout the city. From Christmas show classics put on by the San Francisco Ballet to festivals and fairs, there’s a little something out for everyone. You may even get a smile out of that rather Grinch-like person in your family... Read More
One of Cabo San Lucas’ most beautiful spa resorts, Capella Pedregal sits comfortably on the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula featuring both mountain and oceanfront vistas. The private escape can only be reached through a tunnel that is carved through the center of a mountain, separating the town of Cabo... Read More
Windstar Cruises’ advanced bookings for 2013 sailings are up 60 percent compared to the same time last year. The company announced that it is on course for a fourth consecutive year of increased revenue. “We have an outstanding product today. We truly deliver a unique luxury cruise experience that feels like your own private yacht while immersing you in the destination,” said Hans Birkhoz, CEO of Windstar Cruises.... Read More
