Mamma Mia! Here's a Deal You Can't Resist - 25% Savings To Santorini This Fall

Greece is on movie screens all over the country these days.  And here’s a deal for October at the iconic island of Santorini.

Astra, one of the leading boutique properties in Santorini – that iconic Greek island all over movie screens this summer and glimpsed in Mamma Mia* – is offering a fall special for the first time ever.  October 1 -  31, Astra is providing guests who stay for three nights, a fourth night free – a 25 percent savings off the regular rates. The “Fall in Love at Astra” package starts at about $1,100 and includes a traditional Greek breakfast daily, champagne and chocolates served at sunset on the second day, and taxes – a savings of about $360.

High up on a cliff overlooking the Aegean, offering a bird’s eye view of the 3,600-year-old caldera, Astra provides genuine Greek hospitality in a setting of simple elegance.  Wildflower-filled paths and whitewashed staircases lead to the cozy reception area filled with books and artwork.  The signature colors of the Cyclades are reflected in the sparkling infinity pool hanging 1000 feet above the turquoise sea and the roomy day beds draped in white linen.  Consistently rated one of the top three on the island, this boutique hotel has a loyal following with guests returning year after year.

In October, as chilly winds begin to blast the U.S., a refreshingly cool breeze finally arrives on the beautiful Cycladic island of Santorini, where average temperatures hover around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.  With the temperate weather and no summer crowds, visitors can relax in luxurious accommodations at a substantial savings.

Each of the 28 spacious suites and rooms are decorated in traditional island style with works by local artists.  The complex has 16 domed-ceiling apartments and 12 luxurious suites – eight with private plunge pools or outdoor Jacuzzis.  A day spa offers a full range of massages and facials.  Opened this year, Astra’s restaurant serves delicious fresh fish and Santorinian specialties under the stars.

The peaceful village of Imerovigli sits at the highest point on the rim of the caldera.  Quaint white-cube houses are carved into the rocky cliff or line narrow cobblestone streets.  Astra looks directly across to the towering rock of Skaros, with ruins of a 13th century castle built during the Venetian occupation which stood unconquered for 600 years.  .

While it is hard for guests to pull themselves away from the view and the pool at Astra, Santorini offers other pleasures.  There are beaches, archaeological sites, charming medieval villages and a pulsating nightlife.

Astra’s special offer is good through October 31, depending on availability.  The rate for a standard apartment is about $367 or €250 and includes: a bottle of Santorini wine upon arrival, daily maid service and a traditional Greek breakfast of yoghurt and fruit, eggs, ham, cheese – served on the guest’s private balcony.  The “Fall in Love at Astra” fall package represents a savings of about $360 – and means the daily room rate goes down to $275.  A superior apartment is about $440 or €300, and a two-bedroom apartment for four people is $484 or €330.   Suites range in price from $587 to $939 (€400 to €640.)  Free high-speed Internet access is in all rooms and suites.

Rates for the suites include: a bottle of premium Santorini wine and flowers upon arrival, full continental American breakfast on your balcony, twice-daily maid service, newspapers, bathrobes, slippers and additional luxury amenities.  All rates based on single or double occupancy and taxes are included.  

For more information about Astra Apartments and Suites, go to www.astra-apartments.com or www.astra.gr.  For reservations, visit the website or call: 011-30-2286-2-47-65.    
 
 
 
* While most of Mamma Mia was shot in the Sporades Islands of Skiathos and Skopelos, Grecophiles know that several iconic views were really Santorini.


Source: Meredith Pillon Marketing Communications
 

FALL IN LOVE WITH ATLANTIC CANADA PRICES DROP UP TO 50 PERCENT AT PEAK FOLIAGE TIME

Haven’t managed to get away this summer yet?  Did you really buy into that “stay-cation” idea?  Or does the news about the economy, the gas crisis and high prices have you worried?  How about a vacation this fall that offers real value? 

Savvy leaf peepers know that come September and October there are lower prices, fewer crowds and plenty of elbow room in Atlantic Canada.  And unlike New England and other parts of the US, prices go down in New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island during the fall – sometimes as much as 50 percent.   

The rolling hills and picturesque valleys of Atlantic Canada come alive in a wash of fiery crimsons and scarlets along with bright yellows and golds.  Food and music take center stage at colorful festivals.  And since Canadians celebrate their Thanksgiving on October 8, Americans can even indulge in an additional holiday feast.

Thanks to the warm waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Northumberland Strait, Prince Edward Island actually has one of the longest fall foliage viewing periods in North America.  The island’s gentle landscape offers up views of apricot-orange sugar maples and the ruby-reds of cherry and sumac.  These jewel tones contrast with the deep greens of spruce and pine. 

This year marks the 100th anniversary of Prince Edward Island’s most famous personage – the spunky red-haired orphan Anne of Green Gables – and events continue on through the end of November, www.anne2008.com.  For seafood lovers PEI also offers two food festivals this fall.  The 13th annual PEI International Shellfish Festival will be held in Charlottetown from September 19 to 21. The “biggest kitchen party in Atlantic Canada” will feature chowder cook-offs, oyster shucking contests and five daily performances by some of Canada’s best known musicians, www.peishellfish.com. And 10 days later, from September 30 to October 5, “Fall Flavours,” a new island-wide food festival with more than 130 culinary events, will take place with native son Michael Smith, one of Canada’s leading chefs, hosting a gala dinner and cooking classes, www.fallflavours.ca.

From September 3 through 15 at the Cavendish Maples Cottages, room rates go down to $98 from the summertime high of $141, a savings of 30 percent.  From September 16 through the 21, the rate goes down to $84, a 40 percent savings.  And from September 22, a room for two costs as little as $70 – a whopping 50 percent off high-season rates.  A “Romance Package,” which includes two nights’ accommodation, breakfast vouchers for the PEI Preserve Co., passes to Green Gables, a bottle of wine, a chocolate surprise and a welcome gift is available from September 2 to mid-October for $243 per couple, 1-888-662-7537, www.cavendishmaples.com.

Visitors to Nova Scotia will see many autumn colors kayaking along Cape Chignecto or hiking, biking, or canoeing through Kejimkujik National Park.  They might even catch sight of moose.  Several food and music festivals take place in the fall, and farmers’ markets have an abundance of fall produce.  From September 4 through October 26, the 2008 Wines of Nova Scotia Fall Festival will offer more than 25 tastings, grape stomps, gourmet dinners, cooking classes and food pairing events, www.winesofnovascotia.ca.  Melodic voices and the sounds of pipes and fiddles will fill the air in Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island at the Celtic Colours International Festival, October 10 to18.  In its twelfth year, this festival will focus on Celtic cultures with home grown Cape Breton musicians as well as artists from Scotland, Ireland, Spain and even Cuba, www.celtic-colours.com.

At the White Point Beach Resort rates also dip in the fall.  Starting September 15, prices for a standard river view room drop to $111 Sunday through Thursday, from the summertime high of $140 – a 20 percent discount.  (The weekend rate is $131.)  After October 19, the rate goes down further to $102 – a 27 percent savings.  (Sunday through Thursday the weekend rate is $111.) The resort’s “Beach Romance” package includes cottage accommodations for three nights, fresh flowers, a fruit basket, sparkling wine, a three-course candlelight dinner, breakfast in bed and a gourmet picnic basket.  Guests may also select a bike trip, round of golf or massage.  The package costs $679 through September 13 and goes down to $621 from September 13 to October 18.  After October 19, the package is only $562, 1-800-565-5068, www.whitepoint.com.

Retracing four centuries of settlement, Newfoundland’s Discovery Trail presents a panorama of stunning seascapes, quiet fishing villages and historic sites.  And the fall colors are spectacular: pin cherry and white birch turn bright yellow, sugar maples become rich orange and blueberry bushes explode into crimson.  Majestic icebergs, pods of whales and puffin colonies lure nature lovers.  A network of foot and cart paths lead to fishing ponds, centuries-old lighthouses and isolated out ports.  Visitors can hike from the abandoned community of British Harbour and the lighthouse of Kings Cove trail to the site of a natural fort used during Queen Ann’s War of 1703-13.  One of the most picturesque spots along the Discovery Trail is the charming national heritage community of Trinity.  Here, narrow lanes lead to restored 19th century merchant houses.   There are some 50 architecturally significant buildings in this small town of 350.  Whale watching is a popular activity from the port and twenty-two species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises swim along the coastline.

This fall, the Artisan Inn and the Campbell House are offering a “stay two nights, get one free” package, which includes accommodations for two, full daily breakfasts and four-course dinners all three days in the Twine Loft Restaurant (featured in the 2008 “Where to Eat in Canada.”)  The package also provides two passes for the Trinity Museum Tour and a year’s subscription to Newfoundland Quarterly.  The rate, at $270 per person, double occupancy, is an 18 percent savings.   After September 15, guests that stay three or more nights, pay a nightly rate of $112, 15 percent off the high-season price.  The Artisan Inn sits on the shore of Fisher Cove in Trinity Harbour and many of its furnishings were created by local artisans.  Rated 4-star Canada Select, the Campbell House is an historic 1840 building with harbor views and sweeping vistas of Trinity, 1-877-464-7700, www.trinityvacations.com.

Fall is also a special time in New Brunswick where wind-swept beaches provide a back-drop for miles upon miles of crimson red peat bogs.  Lighthouses and fishing villages dot the landscape and Acadian joie de vivre colors a multitude of special events.  The 36th annual Oyster Festival, October 2 to 5, will feature tastings, a multi-course oyster supper, and oyster opening and eating contests.  New Brunswick is also home to Canada’s largest jazz festival – the Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival in Fredericton.  From September 9 to 14, electric blues, jazz and funk musicians will offer 120 performances, including 40 free shows, in 23 venues in the city’s historic downtown, www.harvestjazzandblues.com. 

The Hotel Paulin in Caraquet is a charming Victorian hotel built in 1891 and still operated by the Paulin family.  From September 16 to October 15, two people can stay for only $107 per night.  After October 16, the price drops to $102.  The 10-room hotel also has a two-night “Fall for Love” package that includes a full breakfast daily, three-course dinner and wine pairing, Acadian gift basket with wine and cheese, a chocolate and port tasting, Oyster Museum visit with tasting or goat cheese farm tour and tasting.  Additionally, guests may choose between one of the following: a chocolate body wrap treatment, a round of golf, four-course tasting menu with wine at dinner, an oyster cooking class or lobster cooking class.  The package is $405, per person, double occupancy from September 1 through October 15, 1-866-727-9981, www.hotelpaulin.com.

Travelers can download guides and find more information about fall packages, accommodations and events by going to the four provincial web sites: www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca, www.newfoundlandandlabrador.com, www.novascotia.com/fall and www.gentleisland.com/fall.  The Atlantic Canada Tourism Partnership (ACTP) is a nine member pan-Atlantic partnership comprised of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the four Atlantic Canada Tourism Industry Association and the four Provincial Departments responsible for tourism of New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.

Source: Meredith Pillon Marketing Communications

Save Up to 40% on the Ultimate Aerial Introduction to Cabo San Lucas

 Jetsetters Save Big with Casa Dorada’s Sky Helicopter Package in 2008

Travelers save up to 40% through Dec. 18th on the ultimate aerial introduction to Cabo San Lucas with Casa Dorada Los Cabos’, Resort & Spa, Sky Helicopter Package.  The newest resort on Medano Beach is offering voyagers the opportunity to fly high above the USS Intrepid, cruise past the renowned Land’s End Rock, view magnificent Arctic Blue Whales during whale-watching season, and sweep up the Pacific Coast to see celebrity homes in Pedregal, the premiere private, residential community of Cabo, in a private helicopter.  The Sky Helicopter Package includes three nights in an ocean-view Junior Suite, $50 USD credit for food and beverages at the resort, two tickets for the 60 minute Sky Helicopter Tour, and all taxes and service fees.  Rates begin at $1,452 USD until October 10th (a savings of 35%) and $1,578 USD until December 18, 2008 (a savings of 40%).  For reservations or more information, please call 1-(866) 448-0151 or visit the hotel’s website at www.casadorada.com.
 
Casa Dorada has 186 deluxe ocean-view rooms and suites including thirteen penthouse suites which face Cabo’s iconic Land’s End Rock.  All rooms have marble bathrooms, whirlpool tubs, goosedown comforters, plasma screen satellite TV, complimentary wireless Internet and kitchens or kitchenettes.  Lavish penthouse suites from 2,000 to 4,500 square-feet offer multiple bedrooms, kitchens, adjacent makeup areas, furnished terraces and balconies, ocean-facing Jacuzzis and walk-in closets. Upon request, resort chefs prepare gourmet meals in the penthouse kitchens.
 
East meets West in the 7,000-square-foot Saltwater Spa that features unusual offerings such as a Baoding Harmony Balls massage, a saltwater ritual and the Couleur de Vie, a treatment that combines color therapy, aromatherapy and thalassotherapy (salt water). 12 Tribes restaurant at Casa Dorada is inspired by the legendary 12 Tribes of Israel.  Executive Chef Fabian Rios has sourced close to 400 ingredients from 30 countries to craft an irresistible selection of dishes inspired by the cuisines of Spain, Romania, Israel, Yemen, Ethiopia, Russia, Armenia, Georgia, France and more. Entertainment is in the offing at B lounge, which also features more than 50 different beers, including a custom mango-flavored brew. Fashionable yet comfortable for families, friend getaways and honeymooners alike, Casa Dorada also features an air-conditioned beachfront restaurant, private Beach Club and three swimming pools.

SOURCE: KWE Group

Special Summer Discounts at Sonesta Bayfront Coconut Grove

Sonesta Bayfront is known as an artsy place where business travelers, families and singles can relax and enjoy the benefits of Coconut Grove with its off-beat, laid-back ambiance and quiet sophistication.  This summer travelers can choose from 20% off up to 3 nights or a 4th Night Free program offered through September 27th.

Sonesta Bayfront Hotel Coconut Grove has introduced a summer of savings at the hotel available through September 27th.  Guests can choose from a savings of 10% off two nights or 20% off three night stays or, take advantage of the 4th Night Free program introduced for the Summer*.  Rates begin at just $189 per night before your choice of savings.

Select from an assortment of comfortable, well-appointed and smartly decorated accommodations. From traditional guest rooms to expansive two-bedroom suites. Enjoy wonderful views of Biscayne Bay or the city skyline and experience its off-beat, laid-back ambiance and quiet sophistication.

*Rates and Packages are subject to availability. Children under 17 stay free with an adult. Not available for groups or during special events.

The Sonesta Bayfront Hotel Coconut Grove is located at 2889 McFarlane Road. The 22-story property offers 225 contemporary-styled guest rooms, and 1- and 2-bedroom suites, featuring a contemporary design and works of art from Sonesta’s renowned collection. Many of the luxurious guest rooms and suites feature bay views and all rooms provide private balconies and high-tech conveniences, including 42” flat screen, wall-mounted LCD televisions. Suites feature fully-equipped kitchens with all the conveniences of home and are perfect for families or extended stays. The hotel has a spectacular outdoor pool located on the 8th floor overlooking Biscayne Bay, the Marina and Peacock Park across the street. It is also the home of Panorama Restaurant & Lounge, known for its Peruvian cuisine, and the recently opened Nikki Beach Coconut Grove located on the ground level of the hotel. Additional hotel amenities include a Business Center, 2 lounges, plus 12,360 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space. The hotel is located in the village of Coconut Grove, just minutes by car from the Miami Seaquarium, Children’s Museum and Fairchild Gardens.

Sonesta Collection is a distinctive international collection of upscale hotels, resorts and cruise ships. Every property reflects the energy, style and spirit of its location. Locally-inspired and artfully-presented cuisine, luxurious accommodations and passionate personal service create an authentic and memorable guest experience. Discover the Sonesta Collection in Boston, New Orleans (2), Miami, St. Maarten (2), Brazil (2), Peru (6) and Egypt (12). Look for Sonesta opening soon in Orlando, FL; Jaco Beach, Costa Rica; and San Carlos, Mexico. Visit Sonesta.com or call 800.Sonesta (800.766.3782) in the U.S. and Canada.

Source: Sonesta International Hotels Corporation 

It's Open Spa Season at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Around the World

Save at the Spa This Spring & Tax Season

Shed some stress this spring at Willow Stream and Fairmont Spas around the world. Like spring break for the sophisticated traveler, spa season is a value spa vacation at select spas for the months of April and May 2008. In the latest CHG survey VP, Stephanie Pearson states, “Traveling consumers are continually realizing the health benefits of incorporating spa into their busy lifestyles.”

Located in some of the most breathtaking parts of the world, each Willow Stream and Fairmont Spa restores guests with energy-inspired experiences that reflect the destination’s culture and history.

With a two night minimum stay, an upgrade is guaranteed. Spa season packages also include spa robes and slippers to use during your stay, as well as products from Kerstin Florian International, a $25 Willow Stream or Fairmont Spa credit per person, a personal letter from the spa director, and a spa brochure and coordinator to help you choose your experiences and book appointments. For full terms and conditions visit http://www.fairmont.com/promo/spaseason.

US

Willow Stream Spa at The Fairmont Newport Beach in Orange County, California marks the completion of a $32 million dollar hotel makeover. Room rates at $179 per night. Enjoy experiences like The Crystal Clear Experience and The Generosity Massage.

One of the only luxury spa resorts in the country with its own source of thermal mineral water, The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa room rates begin at $349 per night.

Located in the heart of the sun, The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess starts at $399 per night. With two 18 hole golf courses and a Willow Stream Spa this spa is ranked one of the best spas in North America by Conde Nast Traveler.

Rates at The Fairmont Turnberry Isle Resort and Club start at $399. This Mediterranean style resort, located in South Florida, just completed a $100 million transformation with two new golf courses and a renovated 35,000 square foot Willow Stream Spa.

Indulge at The Fairmont Orchid. This ‘spa without walls’ offers waterfall massage hale (huts) and oceanfront massage cabanas. Rates begin at $419.

CANADA

Awarded by international travel magazines and readers, rates at The Fairmont Banff Springs in Alberta, Canada begin at $249 CAD. Authentic and locally-inspired spa experiences include a revitalizing 60 or 90 minute Alpine Aromatherapy Massage.

Spa season rates at Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello begin at $169 CAD. Ideal for an adventurous escape, this spa blends the romantic-fireside massages in the couple’s suite with the great outdoors.

MEXICO

At Willow Stream Spa at The Fairmont Acapulco Princess in Acapulco, luxury meets the vibrant energy of the Aztecs. Rates begin at $260 USD. Locally-inspired experiences include The Latin Latte and the Balance Barro Body.

Fairmont Mayakoba and its Willow Stream Spa topped Travel & Leisure’s June “It” List as one of the year’s best authentic destinations. Rates start at $299 USD. Spa experiences include: Food of the Gods, which features Mayan chocolate “cacao.”

EUROPE

The Fairmont Saint Andrews, Scotland is the perfect destination for those who love to golf and spa. On top a summit of a spectacular formation, the hotel and its two golf courses have panoramic views of the Eden estuary. Rates start at $389 USD.

Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Le Montreux Palace is situated on the shores of Lake Geneva overlooking the Alps. Rates at the award-winning Fairmont Le Montreux Palace begin at $475 USD.

MIDDLE EAST AND ASIA

Willow Stream Spa at The Fairmont Dubai in the United Arab Emirates is set within rolling sand dunes and gorgeous beaches. Rates start at $349 USD. The spa has two rooftop swimming pools with views of the city skyline.

Rates at the award-winning Fairmont Singapore begin at $285 USD. Unique experiences include the Shirodhara inspired Peace & Quiet spa experience or Willow Stream Elements based on European Spa Kur rituals.

For reservations call Fairmont Hotels & Resorts at 1.888.760.2929 or visit http://www.fairmont.com/promo/spaseason for participating spas.

 

 

Source: Fairmont Hotels & Resorts 

Splurge on the Fun, Save on an Extra Night when Staying at Island Outpost

Dive into Island Outpost’s value-packed summer deals and get ready to discover the charms of Jamaica.

Read below for details…

Island Outpost, record mogul Chris Blackwell’s impressive boutique hotel collection in Jamaica offers a variety of summer deals for every traveler.
 

Jake’s, Treasure Beach, South Coast, Jamaica

Moroccan domes and arches bloom. Decks skim the waves. Shells, beads and colored glass glitter brightly from walls. Eclectic and exotic. Sensual and secluded. It’s that simple when it comes to Jake’s. With 30 rooms and villas, the resort recently added the Driftwood Spa, offering total comfort and relaxation in this off-the-beaten-path destination. The resort’s restaurant is a rallying point for islanders and guests alike. Local excursions include trips to YS Falls, mountain biking, herbal steam baths, river tours and manatee watching. A trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the ‘Pelican Bar’, dubbed the coolest bar in the Caribbean by those in the know. www.islandoutpost.com/jakes

Offer: Pay for four nights, but stay for five nights. In addition, receive a 30-minute massage per person and a complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival.
Travel Dates: April 20, 2008 through December 14, 2008.
 

The Caves, Negril, Jamaica

The Caves is the perfect spot for couples thriving a relaxing, unspoiled getaway. Volcanic cliff honeycombed with grottoes: one strewn with flowers and candlelit for intimate dining, another harboring a bubbling hot tub, others just portals into the crystal-clear sea below, populated by dolphins, parrot fish and sea turtles. Serenity holds sway here, where the coral reefs, cliff crags and lush Jamaican vegetation merge. Each of the ten cottages is unique, harmoniously blending local wood, stone and thatch. The furnishings reflect the same simple aesthetic: high ceilings soar above custom-made wood and bamboo, brightened by bold island colors. www.islandoutpost.com/the_caves

Offer:  Pay for four nights, but stay for five nights. In addition, receive a 30-minute massage per person and a complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival 
Travel Dates: 04/21/2008-12/22/2008
 

Strawberry Hill, Blue Mountains, Jamaica

Set on a former coffee estate, Strawberry Hill offers twelve airy cottages with sweeping views of Jamaica’s Blue Mountains and the Caribbean Sea, all bathed in lush mountain mists. Visitors reconnect with their inner self through Strawberry Hill Living, a simple lifestyle embracing all facets of mind, body and spirit, bringing an optimum balance of de-stressed self-awareness. A 60-foot negative-edge swimming pool, nature trails, bird-watching expeditions and mountain bikes help guests connect with the intense natural beauty of this fertile region, famous the world over for its strong, smooth coffee blends. This luminous 25-acre mountaintop, mystical retreat is ideal for the traveler seeking tranquility in a sophisticated setting. www.islandoutpost.com/strawberry_hill

Offer: Pay for four nights, but stay for five nights. In addition, receive a 30-minute massage per person and a complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival
Restriction: Special offer available for bookings between Monday and Thursday.
 

NEW! Island Outpost unveils the new Geejam, Port Antonio

Originally founded by music producer Jon Baker as a recording hideaway that played host to No Doubt, Common, India.Arie, Björk and Gorillaz, among others, Baker has now joined forces with fellow music industry veteran Steve Beaver to metamorphosize Geejam into an insider escape. The result? A stylish equilibrium between ultra modern technology and the intrinsic grace of Jamaica’s organic island vibe and sensibility. Located on six acres of the lush San San Estate, the property extends from the foothills of the John Crow and Blue Mountain chains to the Caribbean beachfront.  A mix of self-contained deluxe cabins, suites and villas, Geejam’s sleek design is fused with a rootsy tropical attitude. Unsurpassed digital amenities and contemporary feel redefine the traditional Caribbean accommodation. Here, Apple iTV comes standard, as does the lush jungle atmosphere. Within immediate proximity is Frenchman’s Cove — voted by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the world’s top five beaches. A 10-minute drive west will find travelers in the historic town of Port Antonio, which was the birthplace of tourism in Jamaica at the turn of the century. www.geejamhotel.com

Offer: Pay for four nights, but stay for five nights.
Travel Dates: Year-round

About Island Outpost:
Created by Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Records and Palm Pictures, Island Outpost properties are known for their interesting character and stunning surroundings and strive to offer their clients a feeling reminiscent of staying at a friend’s home. The group includes Goldeneye, Strawberry Hill, Jake’s, and The Caves in Jamaica, Compass Point and Pink Sands in The Bahamas and an exclusive selection of villas.
 
For more information or to make a reservation, call 1-800-OUTPOST or visit www.islandoutpost.com,
+ 44(0) 1895 450 731 in the UK. 

Source: Andria Mitsakos Public Relations 

Biras Creek Resort Offers Summer Packages and Deals

Biras Creek Resort, the Caribbean’s premier luxury resort, is offering a variety of great summer packages and promotions. Located on a lush 140-acre nature reserve on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, Biras Creek is the ideal location for summer travelers seeking romance, adventure, family vacation or plain old summer fun.
           

Biras Creek is offering two great promotions for guests booking August travel by April 30. The Family Summer Escape special allows travelers who book two ocean or garden suites for at least five nights to receive a 20% discount.  Additionally, vacationers that book a garden or ocean suite for six nights will receive their seventh night free.

Due to popular demand, Biras Creek Resort is reinstating their Summer Escape Package. Relax and pamper yourself for 15 days/14 nights in a Deluxe Suite.  Package includes all meals, and roundtrip boat transfers from Beef Island Airport (EIS) to the resort.  The package also includes two 30-minute massages per week, one Sunset Sail for two per week, one round trip taxi to the Baths and a bottle of Champagne on arrival.

 
Families will love the Family Fun Package, a special package tailored for families with two or more children between the ages of eight and sixteen, which includes a second or adjacent suite at a significant discount.  The package includes two suites and all meals for two adults and two children for seven nights.  In addition, the package includes a bottle of Champagne for the parents, free snorkeling lessons for the entire family, and one half-day snorkeling trip to the Baths for the entire family.   Extra children and extra nights rates available on request.
 
Recently named one of the World’s Best 2008 Hotels by Travel + Leisure, Biras Creek, a member of Relais & Chateaux, is a private hideaway on a 140-acre nature reserve on Virgin Gorda. Accessible by sea or air only, Biras Creek comprises 33 spacious suites.  The resort also includes the Biras Spa, offering indulgences in the latest in health and beauty treatments. Rates range from $675 to $1,950 per night based on season.  All rates are based on double occupancy and include breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner daily and airport transfers with private launch.  For reservations or more information,  call 877.883.0756 or visit biras.com.
 
The Victor International Corporation is an award-winning real estate, resort development and management company which has a tradition for creating ‘unique living environments in ecological harmony with the land’.  Victor International’s accomplishments include the prestigious Bay Harbor Resort & Marina, Hotel and Conference Center, located in Bay Harbor, Michigan and Turtle Lake, located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan as well as Oil Nut Bay, located on Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands.
 
For more information on Biras Creek Resort and Victor International Corporation, visit biras.com; victorintl.com; oilnutbaybvi.com, bayharbor.com; and turtlelake.com.
 

London and Paris Accommodation for the Budget Conscious

Despite the weak dollar it is still possible to stay in London and Paris for under $70 US per-person, per-night. How? By staying in a vacation rental rather than a hotel.

 

Check out these affordable alternatives from Coach House Rentals…

LONDON PROPERTIES

River Court
- spacious and practical flat, ideal for sight-seeing or the city - sleeps 3. From £105 (US$210) per night. Ref: RCT.
St. George’s Square
- bright and airy apartment in convenient Pimlico location - sleeps 5. From £155 (US$310) per night. Ref: SGS.
Peterborough Road
- comfortable 5 bedroom house in convenient location - sleeps 7/9. From £225 (US$450) per night. Ref: PET.

PARIS PROPERTIES

rue Frochot
- great value studio in a colourful area of Paris - sleeps 2/3. From €125 (US$195) per night. Ref: PFRT.
rue Francoeur
- comfortable modern apartment in genuinely “Parisian” Montmartre - sleeps 5. From €185 (US$285) per night. Ref: PFRC.
boulevard Malesherbes
- charming family residence in the upscale 8th arrondissement - sleeps 5/6. From €255 (US$395) per night. Ref: PMHB.
Cour St Pierre
- large family house in private gated street, a rare find - sleeps 7. From €250 (US$385) per night. Ref: PCSP.

And remember you can save even more if you cook and eat in some nights, something you can’t do in a hotel. And you’ll have the fun of shopping for food in the local markets and delicatessens.

For details of these and other properties, a comprehensive description of their services and suggestions on how best you can spend your time in these great cities go to: http://www.rentals.chslondon.com and http://www.rentals.chsparis.com.

Source: Coach House Rentals 

Savings for US visitors to Britain

Visit Britain: Deals and discounts

Americans interested in traveling to Britain on vacation should sign up for VisitBritain’s monthly newsletter ‘Britain Your Way’ for the best deals and discounts to destinations throughout Britain. www.visitbritain.us

Among the latest deals announced is this one from Virgin Vacations…

Virgin Vacations are offering a ‘London At Its Best’ package starting at $899 per person for travel from March 25 through May 15, 2008. The package includes round-trip airfare (excluding taxes), six nights hotel accommodations in London including taxes and service charges, and continental breakfast daily. The package must be purchased by March 20, 2008. www.virgin-vacations.com

Or, this great deal from the Athenaeum hotel…

The five-star Athenaeum Hotel & Apartments in London is offering dollar rates for American travelers beginning at $350 for an executive guestroom (excluding tax). A four-night minimum stay is required and these rates may fluctuate seasonally.  The current pound sterling rate for that room category is £350, so the saving for Americans represents a pound for dollar rate right now. Bookings can be made by calling toll-free 1-800-335-3300. www.athenaeumhotel.com

CLICK HERE for more great Visit Britain deals and discounts.

SOURCE: Visit Britain