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May 19, 2009 | Contributor: Christina Stewart
 Luxury Tours: Planning a trip to Africa can be just as overwhelming as it is exciting. Thoughts of fierce felines and sun-drenched safaris can quickly turn to questions and concerns regarding one's travel plans and safety. When planning a trip to Africa, one's best bet is to rely on the experience and expertise of a seasoned travel professional. That's where Hills of Africa Travel comes in.
Specializing in customized African safari tours, Hills of Africa Travel offers the discerning traveler an array of invaluable resources. From honeymoon to family safaris, the company provides a unique experience from beginning to end.
Based in the United States, Hills of Africa Travel has been providing clients with superior service since 2000. As the company's directors, Meredith Hill and Sandy Salle's passion for Africa is conveyed through their dedication and determination to provide clients with an unforgettable trip of a lifetime.
"Our mission is to change lives, one journey at a time...every time. We know that when we apply our passion to creating our clients' itineraries, we definitely change their lives when they travel," says Meredith Hill, president of Hills of Africa Travel.
In addition to changing the lives of its clients, Hills of Africa Travel strives to leave a lasting footprint on the African community.
"The amazing thing is that there is another side to the mission. We intend to change the lives of the locals in Africa, too," says Hill.
To ensure client satisfaction, Hills of Africa Travel utilizes local experts and tour operators who possess a vast knowledge of the African culture. Each itinerary is custom-tailored to fit individual needs and, unlike other tour companies, no two itineraries are alike.
According to Hill, the company's relatively small size is what sets them apart from the rest. While other leading tour operators generally offer cookie-cutter itineraries and partner up with specific properties based on volume discounts, Hills of Africa Travel goes against the grain.
"We are small -- and proud of it. We have no intention of being 'big,'" Hill says. "Being small gives us many luxuries that benefit the client. For one, we are able to custom design every single itinerary for our clients."
Though the company may be small in size, its scope seems endless. Hills of Africa Travel has locations in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Victoria Falls and has contacts spanning southern and East Africa. From the moment a client steps foot on African soil, he or she is welcomed by a member of the team and attended to as though he or she is family.
Like many discerning travelers, Africa was not Hill's first destination of choice. As a self-proclaimed travel snob, Hill assumed Africa was "dark, dangerous, dusty, full of poverty" and couldn't possibly offer the luxury travel experiences she desired. However, after making a trip to meet her boyfriend's family, she was hooked.
"What I found was the most perfect travel experience ever. There was scenery so incredible it made me want to cry. It was as if the colors were brighter, the smells stronger and the sounds more beautiful. There was the wildlife -- so magnetic, powerful. I could sit, for hours, in complete silence, just watching -- never had an experience like it," says Hill.
"I was blown away by the level of sophistication, the awesome and novel décor, the amazing food and the warm and charming sense of personalities. Then there were the people. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with open arms, big smiles and an element of warm hospitality I have not found anywhere else in the world. This is the Africa I know today."
Hill has been drawn to Africa ever since and describes its energy as being pure and clean.
"It is food for our soul. It is an amazing, magnetic and peaceful experience. I always return from my trips there with a newfound energy and zest for life," says Hill.
The friendly, personalized service continues well after the client returns home. In an ongoing effort to provide clients with the best service possible, a follow-up call is made to the client to discuss the details of the trip.
Africa truly offers something for everyone and with Hills of Africa Travel in your corner, you're sure to experience all of the magic this amazing country has to offer. Any reservations one might have about traveling within Africa are put to rest as Hill's team of experts is there for you every step of the way.
Soul Safa
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May 12, 2009 | Contributor: Christina Stewart
 Luxury Travel: As temperatures begin to rise, so does the anticipation of planning that annual summer trip. Whether you're seeking some much-needed solace, some non-stop action or if you're simply beach-bound, summertime is the perfect season for travel. We know that times are tough, but in today's economy, where everyone is vying for your business, there's never been a better time to find affordable hotel rates and packages. With so many choices as to where to spend your summer vacation, we've helped narrow it down based on the type of getaway your after.
For the Sun Worshiper
While its weather has proved to be among the best year-round, summertime in San Diego, California is exceptionally ideal. Each year, San Diego beaches draw swarms of travelers looking to soak up some rays, ride some waves, and experience the stereotypical Southern California lifestyle. Tourists tend to flock to the bikini-clad beaches of Pacific and Mission Beach, where there is no shortage of shopping, dining and nightlife entertainment. For a more leisurely day on the sand, venture north to La Jolla Shores, a luxurious stretch of sand, set amidst multi-million dollar homes. If you're looking to avoid tan lines altogether, leave your inhibitions at home and head to Black's Beach, a clothing-optional beach in La Jolla. In addition to its sprawling beaches, San Diego offers a vast array of activities sure to please even the most seasoned traveler. Stay in style at TOWER23, a chic hotel along the water's edge, starting at just $299 per night. For more to do in San Diego, don't forget to check out our San Diego City Guide.
For the Over-Worked
If your idea of a dream vacation includes spending some well-deserved "me-time" in the comfort of a plush robe, Cancun, Mexico might be just what the doctor ordered. While Cancun may be a popular destination for spring breakers, its abundance of world-class spas makes it the perfect escape for those in need of a little R&R. Spas in Cancun are known for providing treatments derived from local plants as well as maintaining the ancient practices of its Mayan culture. Indulge your senses at the Zoetry? Wellness & Spa Resort or surrender to ancient healing rituals at Le Blanc Spa Resort.
For the Avid Golfer
Any golf enthusiast knows that Pebble Beach is synonymous with luxury. The coastal community of Pebble Beach is located in Monterey, California and is home to one of the world's finest championship golf courses. Pebble Beach Golf Links has long been a golfers' paradise and has served as a stomping ground of sorts for both celebrities and world-renowned golf champions. The course is scheduled to play host to the 2010 U.S. Open Championship. Luxurious accommodations in Pebble Beach include The Lodge at Pebble Beach, Casa Palmero, and The Inn at Spanish Bay. As a guest of one of these award-winning hotels, you have the option of taking advantage of the Preferred Golf Club program, which provides not only complimentary rounds of golf but also guarantees the lowest room rates available.
For the Family
If your summer vacation plans include the whole clan, Orlando, Florida is the perfect place for parents and kiddos alike. With Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Sea World Orlando all at your fingertips, Orlando is no doubt a crowd pleaser, guaranteed to put a smile on any child's face. While the attractions score big with the kiddos, parents will find pleasure in the luxurious amenities offered by many of the surrounding hotels. And with rates the lowest they've been in a decade, a trip to Orlando doesn't have to break the bank. The Crowne Plaza Hotel Orlando-Universal is currently offering rates starting at just $98.
Whatever your upcoming vacation plans might entail, there's never been a b
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May 11, 2009  Luxury Travel: From massive glacier fields, dinosaur digs, genuine dude ranches to pure Rocky Mountain streams fed by pristine alpine lakes and mighty trout-filled rivers, Alberta is your gateway to the Canadian Rocky Mountains experience.
Located in Western Canada, Alberta is located much closer than most people think, located a short distance above Montana, just a short flight from many major US cities.
With temperate summers averaging about 70 degrees, Alberta is a great way to enjoy the outdoors in a luxurious atmosphere, whether you prefer indulging in spa treatments in the untouched wilderness of Banff National Park, or want to experience the thrill of a heli-hiking adventure near Jasper. Golfers will appreciate Alberta's array of over 300 courses, including seven of Canada's signature golf courses. Alberta is the place to retreat, push yourself to experience pure solitude or a take on a challenging outdoor adventure.
On your trip to Alberta, visit the world's largest Tyrannosaurus Rex as well as Dinosaur Provincial Park, one of the richest grounds of dinosaur fossils in the world. Alberta is home to a wide array of natural wonders. Majestic mountains and lakes provide a beautiful backdrop for this outdoor playground, the land is home to the world's largest herd of free-roaming bison as well as a multitude of pristine natural parks. Go kayaking, river rafting, sailing or scuba diving. Take a tour by horseback, plane or train. During the winter months, go skiing at Nakiska: home of the 1988 Alpine Olympics.
Alberta is also home of two of Canada's major cities: Edmonton and Calgary. With a population nearing 4 million people, Alberta offers all the hustle and bustle of a metropolis, with the relaxation of the great outdoors right nearby. Take in picturesque music festivals in the Rocky Mountains, a Grand Prix auto race in Edmonton and, the world's top show-jumping competition at Spruce Meadows. During July, Calgary hosts the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth - the Calgary Stampede. Alberta is also home to the world's largest outdoor music festival, The Big Valley Jamboree in Camrose.
If you prefer to stay indoors and shop, Alberta is the home of the world's largest shopping and entertainment complex: West Edmonton Mall. Featuring stores that are international favorites, as well as uniquely Canadian, the West Edmonton Mall offers 800 stores, restaurants, attractions and services as well as its own Chinatown and Bourbon Street. The mall even houses a full-blown amusement park and a full-size water park, offering almost 50 different rides and slides for a variety of ages.
Dining in Alberta is also an adventure, from luxury restaurants to food festivals, like the Taste of Calgary festival in August or the International Festival of Wine and Food held at a luxury hotel every October. Fine dining is certainly not scarce; The Blue Pearl offers local, organic dishes like Honey and Harrisa Spice Glazed Quail or Fila Wrapped Braised Lamb. Four Diamond restaurant The Edith Cavel should not be missed, and Calgary's Mercato offers fine Italian. Other notable dining properties include Café de Ville, Century Grill, The Belvedere and Brava Bistro.
Of all the cities in Canada, Alberta is proud to have the most sunshine, allowing people to enjoy its mountains, rivers, valleys, cities and adventure.
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May 07, 2009  Luxury Adventures: This world is filled with so much natural beauty; sometimes it can be hard to know what to see first. And how do you know that you're getting the full experience and seeing all the best that a place has to offer? For many, the Highlands of Scotland and Islands of Scotland rank right up there with the must-see natural wonders of the world.
Truly a breathtaking sight and a place that can only be full appreciated in the flesh. A picture my be worth a thousand words, but seeing the Highlands of Scotland right in front of you is a once in a life time experience that has no words that can describe their flawless beauty with any sort of justice.
The experts at Wilderness Scotland know all there is to know about Scotland's vast outdoor happenings. Wilderness Scotland provides their clients with a totally unique and innovative way of exploring Scotland. Since its founding in 2000, Wilderness Scotland has been the leader in specialty travel companies and continues to expand and raise the bar for unique luxury journeys.
The incredibly knowledgeable and well-versed staff will find the perfect journey that is sure to please you and your travel companions on a trip that will not be forgotten. From guided trips, to self-guided journeys and even private group guides, Wilderness Scotland provides a wide range of different al fresco activities to explore and create your own adventure.
The motive that genuinely sets Wilderness Scotland a cut above the rest is their complete dedication of passion to the great outdoors. Passion is a great motivator and true passion is hard to come by, but each and every staff member of Wilderness Scotland has such great passion for his or her work, that make every journey a trip to remember.
Wilderness Scotland has dedicated itself to be the best and with that goal has developed amazing innovations. Wilderness Scotland is a pioneer and leader in sustainable tourism, and is just as passionate about preserving the wilderness as they are about exploring it. Their undying love for Scotland's wilderness is what makes Wilderness Scotland so committed group to preserving the wilderness. Clients know that they are helping to preserve the wilderness and receive a remarkable education about what they are doing at the same time. Wilderness Scotland is helping to pave the way for future generations, so that they not only get to marvel at Scotland's luxurious Highlands but also learn how to sustain them.
Wilderness Scotland is a wonderful specialty adventure travel company, and will construct the perfect adventure vacation in the stunning Highlands and gorgeous Islands of Scotland. Their unfading passion to sustainable tourism and excitement of the outdoors help clients know that they are helping the environment at the same time as they are enjoying it.
Wilderness Scotland makes this must see natural wonder of the world the perfect vacation with a new level of luxury that can only be found in the Highlands of Scotland.
For LxM Carly ZindermanRelated Topics: Luxury Vacations |
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May 06, 2009  Luxury Travel: Long before there was Harry there was Beatrix, and more than sixty years after the old girl died, Beatrix Potter is still the biggest drawcard in one of the most beautiful corners of Britain.
The business of being Beatrix was given a tremendous boost by the Renee Zellweger/Ewan McGregor film Miss Potter, and now it seems that unless you can dream up a Potter angle for your B&B, pub, restaurant or tourist attraction the Flopsy and Mopsy fans will twitch their noses and scamper on by.
England's Lake District, taking up most of the county of Cumbria in the country's top left hand corner, is a ravishingly beautiful region of mountains, rivers, valleys and lakes. This is where Wordsworth wandered lonely as a cloud until he saw his host of daffodils - but it seems the poet doesn't have the pulling power of a few rabbits, mice and piglets.
More than 16 million people visit this National Park and its fringes each year. That's double the population of London cramming into 2292 square kilometres - around one third the size of our own Alpine National Park.
Fortunately, they're not all there at the same time, and you can still find Wordsworth-style loneliness in remote areas. But not in Potter Land, a rural swath of villages, pubs, cottages and farms in the region around Windermere and Coniston Water.
Today's landscape owes much to the author, who fled a life of intense boredom and isolation in London to build a property portfolio of 14 farms and many more cottages, bequeathing most of her estate to the National Trust to preserve the better elements of early 20th century Cumbrian agriculture.
Fans of Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddleduck, Squirrel Nutkin and her other creations like to start their tour in busy Bowness, a bustling little tourist honeypot on the shores of Windermere, England's biggest lake. Here, in what was the town's laundry, is the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction.
It's a magical little show, with music, squeaks, and other sounds recreating the world dreamed up by one of the world's most successful authors. Illusions - even smells of farmyards, freshly mown grass, flowers and coal fires - evoke the usual oohs and aahs from the punters.
There's a souvenir shop - of course - and the Tailor of Gloucester Cafe, where you can take tea with Simpkin the Cat and nibble lunch with an army of mice. The shop has soft toys, books and clothing representing the writer's 23 books.
The crowds get to you after a while - time to move out of busy Bowness and head across or round the lake to Sawrey, the little Lakeland village that Miss Potter made her own. Here she lived at Hill Top, an old farmhouse that served as her Lake District getaway until marriage in middle age to the lawyer who helped her turn her publishing royalties into almost 2000 hectares of farmland.
If you're planning to take the car ferry from Bowness to Sawrey be prepared for a long wait - it can carry only about 20 vehicles. The alternative is to drive either north or south around Windermere, which in heavy traffic can take almost an hour.
You don't escape the crowds at Hill Top; a dark little place with a nice line in cottage gardens and a throng of tourists who wait for their number to be called so they can potter around the Pottery. If you have been to the Louvre and tried to get up close to the Mona Lisa you'll recognise the sensation of being on a human production line.
Fortunately, there's a terrific little pub nearby, as is often the case in rural England. The Tower Bank Arms, mentioned in several Potter books, pays very little homage to the author; relying on its welcoming nooks to draw its patronage. Most of its patrons are long-suffering men who have had just about enough squirrels, ducks and rabbits to last a lifetime and simply want to get on the outside of a pint.
Hill Top is not the idyllic cottage of the Miss Potter film - that's Yew Tree Farm, a couple of kilometres deeper into the hills. Seems the producers wanted to create something a little more chocolate box, and were gleefully welcomed by Yew Tree's owners, who are now doing big business on the strength of the movie.
Here you can have a Beatrix Potter tea before a Beatrix Potter B&B and take home some vacuum-sealed beef and mutton bred, butchered and packed on land once owned by Miss P. She bought the 212-hectare farm in 1930 to save it from inappropriate forestry plantation development.
If you're still anxious for more pottering, the next logical destination is the Beatrix Potter Gallery in nearby Hawkshead, near the top end of Windermere. This was once the office of her husband, William Heelis, and exhibits many of the watercolours and sketches
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May 05, 2009 | Contributor: James Rothaar
 Luxury Golfing Vacation Packages: Here is a vacationing option with potential value for golfing lovers. Instead of paying for lodgings, Golf Home Exchange enables members to hookup and exchange residences with each other.
Golf Home Exchange offers clients all the comforts of home and easy access to golf courses. The company is an international home exchange service for golfers. This plan works well for participants with residences in golf-friendly areas, as it is an exchange program -- a "my place for yours" arrangement.
This is where the value-to-peril analysis has to be determined. The company's Web site indicates that many participants are willing to exchange their large home in exchange for a smaller apartment. So, registrants of all-size dwellings are invited to join. Members of the Golf Home Exchange deal directly with each other, with the initial contact made via GHE's Web site. This is a 100-percent exchange program. No additional fees between exchanging parties are permitted.
The housing selection options are posted along with the listing member's desired locations in exchange, and the time frame the property is available. While some of the requests are quite specific, many of the requests indicate "anywhere" -- indicating that there is perhaps room to negotiate.
From Portugal to South Carolina to Ireland, Spain, and all points between, a personal golf adventure in a great golfing destination in a luxury residence. Many of the houses listed sleep between six and 12. Some are located on the golf course or within a reasonable drive to a championship golf course. It is likely that more than one golf course is nearby.
Registering with the Golf Home Exchange is affordable with one- and two-year membership plans. One good hookup would make it the best investment of the year. It is a hedge-your-pleasure investment option with potential for many happy returns.
Visit the Web site of the Golf Home Exchange for additional information at www.GolfHome-Exchange.com.
For LxM James Rothaar
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May 01, 2009  Luxury Cruises: Now that the beautiful weather of spring and summer is on its way, we all start to feel that excitement, imagining the perfect getaway. We all want the same things: luxury of accommodations, beauty of surroundings, and an experience we'll never forget. All of those things make the Sonesta Nile Cruise Luxor the perfect vacation for anyone ready for adventure.
Sonesta Cruise Line has five 5-star cruise ships, the most recently added to the fleet being the Sonesta St. George I, which is hailed as one of the most elegant and luxurious ships sailing the Nile today. With 47 deluxe cabins, 10 suites, full-service spa and fitness center, bar, restaurant, and nightly entertainment, your time on the ship will be as enjoyable and exciting as your time off the ship on one of Sonesta's incredible Egyptologist-guided excursions.
Related Topics: Luxury Vacations, Middle East, Egypt, Sonesta |
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May 01, 2009  Luxury Cruises: As the weather gets nicer, we're all getting a little Spring fever; dusting off the sandals and pulling out the beach towels, looking for a little sun. But this Spring, Haugan Cruises brings the perfect way to kick off an amazing summer: Cruising the Galapagos Islands.
The new luxury Catamaran Athala II was built just two years ago with all the furnishings designed to bring you from one beach to another with the finest amenities. Staffed with only 11 people (including one naturalist guide for a personal look into all the islands you'll stop at on your journey) the luxury of your stay will be aided by a small but capable group of people dedicated to the highest standards of service and making your trip one you'll never forget.
With the private balconies and spectacular ocean views, all the cabins are designed to be your safe haven at sea ideal for relaxing in preperation for your next day sailing from one island to the next.
Because of its size and speed, the Catamaran Athala II is able to visit places amongst the islands that other older, slower boats can't get to due to island regulations: aboard the Athala you have the best advantage in the water.
Related Topics: Luxury Vacations, Galapagos, Catamaran |
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April 29, 2009 | Contributor: James Rothaar
 Luxury Tours: Is there anyone who doesn't remember seeing a National Geographic magazine during childhood either in a classroom or at the school library? It is likely that the magazine was used as a supplemental text in many geography classes. The first issue of the venerable magazine was published in October 1888.
Today National Geographic Adventure magazine is at the forefront of presenting environmental issues, science- and space-related topics, information on various cultures, and an argosy of travel destinations. What organization or entity could offer a better listing of the best luxury-adventure outfits than National Geographic? It's hard to go wrong with such a sage source.
1. & Beyond
Formerly known as CC Africa, andBeyond features tours through Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Namibia South Africa, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. The company's forte is providing luxury travel in wildlife hubs. Tours are offered in Asia and India as well. This is as close as a human can get to tigers without becoming their breakfast, lunch or dinner.
The latest adventure vacation from andBeyond is called Where Lions Roar. It is an eight-day romp through South Africa. The company is an advocate of conservation initiatives and has established various private reserves that have been instrumental in revitalizing endangered species.
For more info, visit www.andBeyond.com.
2. Butterfield & Robinson
It began as a bicycling journey through Argentina by three college buddies. Today Butterfield & Robinson has grown into a very successful luxury-adventure travel firm with vacation packages worldwide.
From North America to Oceania, the outfit offers extraordinary tours that center around bicycling and hiking. Comfortable shoes are recommended for travelers interested in B&R's newest destination, a nine-day walking tour to Dubai and Oman.
For more info, visit www.butterfield.com.
3. Austin-Lehman Adventures
It's five-star, five-diamond luxury accommodations with intriguing destinations Africa, Europe, South America, and North America with Austin-Lehman Adventures.
From African safaris to bicycling tours to horseback riding to sports boating to eco-tours for group outings and family vacations, it's a panacea of pleasurable options for upscale travelers with divergent interests. Cycle through Germany for six days on the company's newest bicycling adventure.
Kayaking through Alaska and bicycling through Yellowstone National Park are among its signature-tour recommendations.
For details on tours, visit www.austinlehman.com.
4. Geographic Expeditions
Geographic Expeditions takes travelers in search of experiences to the far reaches of the globe. Some of the elite adventure company's destinations are not readily found on other Web sites, such as Nepal, the Northwest Passage, or the Shackleton Crossing in the Antarctica.
These tours stretch the elasticity of a vacation package to the maximum. Along with five-star accommodations, aligning with GE puts travelers in touch with knowledgeable locals, such as journalists, archaeologists, and other notable individuals, who know their areas intimately. Adventure seekers with Inquisitive minds are welcomed heartily by Geographic Expeditions.
For specifics, visit www.geoex.com.
5. Kensington Tours
With luxury-adventure vacations in more than 70 countries, Kensington Tours prides itself in providing highly individualized experiences for all onboard. Guests of a Kensington tour can revise their itinerary on a moment's notice. On average, the $250 cost per day per tour is a value of amazing proportions.
Rumble through the jungles of Kenya and Tanzania on the 10-day Game Tracker tour. The newest offering is the Discover Indochina tour, exploring Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam with savvy tour guides capable of conveying insight on the various locations with a highly personal touch. Some of the extravagant tours have just one guide for every two guests.
Check it out with a visit to www.kensingtontours.com.
Obviously, the top five selections are the crème de la crème. However, there are more than 85 luxury-adventure companies to visit and review. The Nat Geo Adventure magazine has even more in store. It's just a click away!
For LxM James RothaarRelated Topics: Luxury Vacations |
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April 29, 2009  Luxury Golf: Designed by Alister Mackenzie in 1928, Cypress Point Golf Club in Pebble Beach California remains a long standing favorite course for good reason.
The18-hole course at the Cypress Point Club facility features 6,536 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72 on blue grass.
Built in the day of hickory golf, Cypress Point is built on a stunning piece of land that utilizes the natural location overlooking the Pacific Ocean as part of the course's challenges. The natural lay of the land lends an easy progression to the course, leading to the unequalled cliff top holes at the end of the round. On the way, to the top, you have the privilege of taking a shot at hole 16, considered one of the greatest holes in the world.
Cypress Point is consistently rated amongst the best courses and holes in the world according to golf bible, Golf Digest.
Although Cypress Point isn't hosting any tournaments in the future, it has a long list of illustrious tournaments and players in its past.
In 1918 and 1990 golf champion Mark O'Meara won Pebble Beach National Pro-Am. Originally begun in 1937 by Bing Crosby, the Pebble Beach National Pro-Am has changed its name, but tournaments have been held on the Monterey Peninsula since 1947.
Prior to that, Steve Jones, Johnny Miller and legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus have all played and won on the breathtaking course.
Currently under the management of Allan Morrison, Cypress Point is said to be a magical once in a lifetime course for golfers.
For LxM Carly Zinderman
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April 29, 2009  Luxury Culinary Tours: Murray's Cheese and The Leading Hotels of the World have teamed up to provide cheese enthusiasts and experimental travelers with a one of a kind experience.
Murray's Cheese is the oldest cheese shop in New York City, providing an array of specialty European cheeses in addition to charcuterie meats to the finest dining restaurants in America, including Thomas Keller's French Laundry and Per Se. Murray's; Four temperature and humidity controlled cheese-aging caves beneath the streets of Greenwich Village allow Murray's to store a variety of cheeses and the company has branched out to include Murray's Real Salami, Murray's by Mail and Made by Murray's.
The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. is the largest international luxury hotel in the world, partnering with 450 of the world's finest hotels, resorts and spas. Since 1928, the company's stringent requirements has ensured that their guests have the best and most luxurious experience possible.
The newly created epicurean master class will provide rarely available access to the boutique, farmhouse cheesemakers of the Bad Ragaz region. The partnership has made space limited to 20 people and is subject to availability in order to preserve the integrity of the private farmhouses and sense of intimacy on the trip.
The journey promises travelers stunning scenery, an array of food and drink and the ability to taste some of the finest cheeses in the world.
The five-night tour, led by Murray's Director of Education, Taylor Cocalis will share Cocalis' deep appreciation of the Alpine culture and most especially its deeply rooted cheesemaking. Both novices and conisseurs alike will enjoy learning about cheesemaking, affinage and the region's rich, gastronomic history. The tour includes a series of cheese-centered excursions and experiences, including visit to a 400-year-old aging cellar, abundant daily tasting excursions, and meetings with local artisans.
The Grand Resort Bad Ragaz in Switzerland will host the tour and allow guests access to all of its luxurious accommodations. Guests will enjoy staying in the newly redone Spa Loft Suites, each with private sauna and running thermal water. In the evening, they will be privileged to enjoy the cuisine of Head Chef, Roland Schmid, known for his use of fresh ingredients. During leisure time, guests can spend time on the18-hole golf course, hiking, biking or in the refurbished Tamina Therme spa and sauna.
The voyage is scheduled for early summer, June 8 - 13, 2009 and promises endless enjoyment for 20 lucky participants including: transport in a luxury sedan to and from the airport, five nights accommodation in a new Spa Loft Suite at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz; daily breakfast; three lunches; four dinners with wine pairings; private guided tours of local farms and cheese cellars; all cheese tastings; all local transportation; welcome home gift; and use of the resort's spa area and health club.
For LxM Carly ZindermanRelated Topics: Luxury Vacations |
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April 27, 2009  Golf Championships: Golfers get ready, as the Travelers Championship approaches.
Taking place June 22-28 at TPC River Highlands, a par 70, 6,844 yard course in Cromwell, Connecticut, 10 miles south of Hartford, defending champion Stewart Cink will defend his title in a 72 hole stroke play.
Stewart Cink earned his fifth PGA TOUR victory at the 2008 Travelers Championship. Cink got his first PGA TOUR victory at this tournament during his rookie year in 1997 and is again defending his title this year.
Cink joins other golf greats who had had multiple wins at Connecticut's PGA TOUR event, including: Billy Casper (1963, 1965, 1968, 1973), Arnold Palmer (1956, 1960), Paul Azinger (1987, 1989) and Phil Mickelson (2001, 2002).
The purse for the Travelers Championship is $6 million, with a Winner's Share of $1.08 million.
The Travelers Championship participates in the PGA TOUR Tradition of Giving Back and since it's inception in 1952, Connecticut's PGA TOUR event has donated more than $25 million to charities in the surrounding community. This year, all the proceeds of the championship will be donated to The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp and the Greater Hartford Jaycees.
Recent Champions of the event include Hunter Mahan (2007), J.J. Henry (2006), Brad Faxon (2005), Woody Austin (2004), Peter Jacobsen (2003), Phil Mickelson (2001 & 2002).
The course is a well-balanced golf test with a mixture of long and short holes. According to the official information, the most notable stretch of holes are 15-17, which are played around a 4-acre lake. According to Stewart Cink, when combined with the home hole, they are "four of the most exciting finishing holes in a group anywhere in the world."
For LxM Carly Zinderman
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