http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/ en Tue, 21 May 2013 15:41:25 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.luxurylink.com/community/images/misc/rss.jpg http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/vip-contributors-blog-about-943/ Thu, 08 Feb 2007 17:06:09 GMT Welcome to the VIP Contributor's Blog! Here, Luxury Link's VIP Community Contributors have a stage to present travel insights, tips,
ratings, suggestions - and any other topics related to
luxury travel.




Check in often as I am sure they will use this platform to share valuable information with the entire LL Community.




Regards,

LL Editor

Message Edited by jhart_ll on 02-12-2007 09:34 AM ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/vip-contributors-blog-about-943/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/san-jose-costa-rica-1067/ Thu, 09 Nov 2006 19:54:48 GMT ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/san-jose-costa-rica-1067/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/marrakesh-morocco-1068/ Thu, 09 Nov 2006 19:50:23 GMT

Introduction
This is the most popular of Morocco's imperial cities and a must-see. The setting is stunning, with ocher stucco buildings on a dry, rocky plain and the snow-peaked Atlas Mountains as a backdrop (they're not always visible). Much of the medina is surrounded by beautifully restored pinkish-red ramparts, and lovely palm gardens are interspersed among the impressive buildings, including several nicely renovated courtyard mansions (riads) that now serve as hotels. The modern town has gracious, wide avenues and large, resort-style hotels.

The vast square called Djemaa el-Fna is the main show in town. It's a market scene straight out of the movies, with snake charmers, musicians, acrobats and storytellers. At night, the plaza is filled with gaslit restaurant stalls and people enjoying the food and spectacle. If you'd rather not be in the thick of things, you can enjoy the atmosphere from one of the rooftop terrace restaurants overlooking the plaza.
The most impressive monuments in Marrakesh are the Koutoubia Mosque and its minaret (250 ft/77 m tallthe building is not accessible to non-Muslims), the Ben Youssef Medersa (a magnificent 16th-century Islamic college) and the ornately decorated Saadian Dynasty tombs. Other sights to see, if time permits, include the 19th-century Bahia Palace, the ruined 16th-century El Badi Palace, the Qubba Ba'Adiyn (a beautiful fountain pavilion for a mosque), the Dar Si Said Museum (decorative arts) and the lovely Majorelle gardens, purchased and restored by fashion designer Yves St. Laurent. The Marrakesh Museum and the Maison Tiskiwin are two small museums worth visiting, if you have the time. Two complexes of gardens and orchards, the Agdal and Menara, make for nice short excursions outside of the medina. Whether you're sightseeing or shopping, you'll probably spend time in the souks north of Djemaa el-Fna.
Day trips out of Marrakesh are as fascinating as the city itself. Excursions include trips to Ouarzazate and Imlil, where you can take a mule ride to the Aremd hamlet and view Morocco's highest mountain, 13,644-ft/4,159-m snow-covered Toubkal. (This is Morocco's most popular hiking areawalking up the mountain is about a three-day trip.) Located only 46 mi/74 km south of Marrakesh, Oukaimeden is a winter resort with the highest ski lift in Africa and spectacular views. Oumast is a sand-colored town with a beautiful lake and an excellent pottery market on Tuesday. The Ourika Valley features the Djebel Yagour prehistoric rock carvings and the Ighreb Mosque. The 300-ft/90-m Cascades d'Ouzoud (impressive waterfalls) and Demnate (an ancient village carved out of rock) are also in the area and are worth visiting, if time permits. Those interested in architectural history will want to visit the mosque in Tin Mal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built by the Almohads in the 12th century. Unlike most mosques in Morocco, it's open to non-Muslims. A minimum of three nights is required to do justice to Marrakesh and the surrounding area. Marrakesh is 135 mi/215 km south of Casablanca.


Message Edited by LL_Editor on 11-14-2006 03:09 PM ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/marrakesh-morocco-1068/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/santa-barbara-california-1065/ Wed, 08 Nov 2006 22:43:15 GMT ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/santa-barbara-california-1065/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/honolulu-hawaii-1066/ Wed, 08 Nov 2006 22:16:25 GMT ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/honolulu-hawaii-1066/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/homestead-hot-springs-virginia-701/ Wed, 08 Nov 2006 19:58:19 GMT Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/1600/1600-gal-lrg-01.jpg Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/1600/1600-gal-lrg-02.jpg ...


Since 1766, The Homestead, part of the Club Resorts, has exemplified traditional Southern hospitality in the stunning Allegheny Mountains of Virginia. Surrounded by a magnificent 15,000-acre property, its 506 guestrooms and suites provide a grand escape from the stresses of daily life. Each accommodation has been recently renovated with furnishings that reflect the elegant Georgian architecture, as well as capture the natural beauty of the area - a region that offers incomparable relaxation and recreation in an atmosphere as gracious as its heritage.

Throughout the scenic landscape that surrounds The Homestead, a variety of exhilarating activities beckon. Horseback riding and carriage rides are popular ways to explore the area, while sportsmen appreciate the opportunities for shooting, fly fishing and falconry. One hundred miles of hiking and biking trails give you the choice of where you want to spend your afternoons, and the resort's three premier golf courses include the acclaimed Cascades Course. Then there's the highlight of your visit - a treatment at the Spa and Salon. Choose from an array of massages, hydrotherapies, and facials that will relax and rejuvenate your body and soul.

Message Edited by LL_Editor on 11-10-2006 05:27 PM ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/homestead-hot-springs-virginia-701/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/miraflores-park-hotel-lima-peru-700/ Wed, 08 Nov 2006 19:56:19 GMT Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/1646/1646-gal-lrg-01.jpg Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/1646/1646-gal-lrg-02.jpg When...


When your travels take you to Peru you would be remiss not to visit its vibrant city of Lima. Deemed "City of Kings," Lima has much to offer the world traveler, from high sophistication to vibrant natural surroundings on the Pacific Ocean. Spend your days touring this stunning, culturally rich city. You will have plenty to choose from with many museums, such as the Museum of Osma and the Gold Museum, galleries, and shops.

After a full day of seeing the sights, escape the hustle and bustle of the downtown area and relax in the stylish beauty of Miraflores Park Hotel, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Its subtle elegance, excellent service and spacious areas distinguish this European style hotel form the competition. Located at the Malecon de la Reserva, one of Lima's most exclusive residential districts, bordering Miraflores Park, you will be surrounded by lovely scenery and enjoy an incredible view of the ocean.

Message Edited by LL_Editor on 11-10-2006 05:30 PM ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/miraflores-park-hotel-lima-peru-700/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/finca-rosa-blanca-country-inn-costa-rica-699/ Wed, 08 Nov 2006 19:53:17 GMT Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/1751/1751-gal-lrg-01.jpg Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/1751/1751-gal-lrg-02.jpg ...


Perhaps best described as a combination of the architectural styles of Gaudi and Frank Lloyd Wright, Finca Rosa Blanca Country Inn is one of Costa Rica's preeminent boutique properties. It rises gracefully above the beautiful Central Valley and offers striking views of the area's volcanoes, cloud forests and coffee plantations. It's also renowned for its fine cuisine and elegant four-course dinners, creatively prepared from the bounty of its orchards and organic gardens.

Costa Rica's fertile Central Valley is home to a host of nature's splendors. Discover its rich back country on a horseback riding excursion or with a hike in the Braulio Carillo National Park Cloud Forest. Tour the country's premier coffee producers and experience the grandeur of the Pos and Iraz volcanoes. Along the way, shop for arts and crafts at local markets and discover its native herbs, tropical fruits and spices at neighboring botanical gardens.


Message Edited by LL_Editor on 11-10-2006 05:33 PM ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/finca-rosa-blanca-country-inn-costa-rica-699/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/saybrook-point-inn-spa-old-saybrook-connecticut-698/ Wed, 08 Nov 2006 19:50:04 GMT Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/2569/2569-gal-lrg-02.jpg Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/2569/2569-gal-lrg-03.jpg From...


From the moment you arrive at Saybrook Point Inn & Spa in historic Old Saybrook, Connecticut, there is no mistaking the inn's mission: to surround you with the gracious amenities and exceptional discreet service that are the hallmarks of this intrinsically romantic and luxurious hotel. Just two hours from New York City, the inn features a splendid spa and an abundance of rejuvenating treatments and rituals. Its elegant guestrooms boast balconies, whirlpools, working fireplaces, 18th-century, English-style furnishings, spacious baths of imported Italian tile and, of course, tranquil water views.

The hotel lies where the Connecticut River meets Long Island Sound, a panoramic vista that guests can enjoy from many vantages, including the Terra Mar Grille, which serves "wonderful everything," glows Zagat. This is a region of exceptional natural beauty and historical significance, and activities include vineyard excursions, biking along the scenic coast, and nearby antique shops, theaters, casinos and golf courses. You'll find numerous outstanding beaches and State Parks within a half hour drive, and the open waters beckon with its chartered lobster dinner cruises, lighthouse voyages and whale, seal and bald eagle watching excursions.

Message Edited by LL_Editor on 11-10-2006 05:36 PM ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/saybrook-point-inn-spa-old-saybrook-connecticut-698/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/hotel-villa-abbazia-follina-italy-697/ Wed, 08 Nov 2006 19:45:47 GMT Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/106261/106261-gal-lrg-01.jpg Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/106261/106261-gal-lrg-02.jpg ...


An integral part of a 17th-century edifice, Hotel Villa Abbazia is situated in the historic center of Follina. With its spacious guest rooms, featuring modish Italian art and refined furnishings, this elegant Relais & Chateaux associate exudes the warmth of a private home. It promises guests a tranquil stay and is ideal for those who love the countryside but who don't want to forego the pleasures of nearby Venice or Cortina.

Let the hotel plan a tour to nearby Treviso, a city of water surrounded by splendid medieval walls. Known as "the city with a thousand horizons," Asolo is crowned by its fortress castle of Queen Caterina Cornaro. For the sports-minded, the Asolo Golf Club offers guests a 27-hole course. After a rewarding outing, return for fine Italian and international cuisine at La Corte, the hotel's premiere restaurant. Guest Testimonial

Message Edited by LL_Editor on 11-10-2006 05:42 PM ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/hotel-villa-abbazia-follina-italy-697/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/hotel-nelligan-montral-canada-696/ Wed, 08 Nov 2006 19:43:08 GMT *Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/107727/107727-gal-lrg-01.jpg Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/107727/107727-gal-lrg-02.jpg...


Montreal is a city unlike any other in Canada. With a distinctive French culture and uncompromising beauty, it radiates a sophisticated glamour rarely encountered in North America. Serenading the senses in the heart of this historic city, Hotel Nelligan, opened in May 2002, is one of the most exciting entrants into Old Montreals boutique hotel scene, raves National Geographic Traveler. Paying tribute to Quebecs most celebrated poet, mile Nelligan, this enchanting propertys 63 rooms redefine the requisites for boutique luxury, with contemporary dcor set in traditional Old Montreal architecture.



Renowned for its innovative fashion, extensive arts community and delectable bistros, the city is a delightful metropolis. Along the banks of the majestic St. Lawrence River, Old Montreal stands out as a monument to the city's ancient beginnings. Discover this delightful district with its wealth of unique history and architecture and variety of museums, boutiques, art galleries and restaurants, including the hotel's own Verses Restaurant, serving contemporary French cuisine favored by some of the city's hippest epicures. Cap off a perfect Old Montreal evening with a martini under the stars at Verses Sky, on the hotel's magnificent rooftop terrace.

Message Edited by LL_Editor on 11-10-2006 05:44 PM ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/hotel-nelligan-montral-canada-696/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/twelve-apostles-hotel-spa-cape-town-south-africa-695/ Wed, 08 Nov 2006 19:41:02 GMT Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/107995/107995-gal-lrg-01.jpg Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/107995/107995-gal-lrg-02.jpg ...


Flanked by majestic Table Mountain and her Twelve Apostles, The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is located just minutes from the center of South Africas Cape Town. Poised on the edge of the Atlantic - where earth, sea and sky meet and luxury begins - it radiates African warmth and makes an ideal base from which to explore the many attractions of the fabled Cape Peninsula.

Nearby Cape Town is simply brimming with historic attractions and oceanfront splendor. Plan an afternoon enjoying the street entertainers, shops, taverns and restaurants at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Visit The Castle of Good Hope, built in 1666, and ascend Table Mountain in a cable car for magnificent city views. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike a wealth of nature trails or plunge into some of the regions prime diving spots in search of seals, dolphins, whales and penguins.





Message Edited by LL_Editor on 11-10-2006 05:47 PM ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/twelve-apostles-hotel-spa-cape-town-south-africa-695/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/maccallum-house-inn-restaurant-bar-mendocino-california-694/ Wed, 08 Nov 2006 19:38:17 GMT Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/108164/108164-gal-lrg-01.jpg Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/108164/108164-gal-lrg-02.jpg ...


Filled with charm, romance and lots of antiques, the MacCallum House Inn, Restaurant & Bar resides in the tranquil village of Mendocino, California. While its setting is pure magic, surrounded by art galleries, live theater, untouched beaches and rugged ocean cliffs, it is considered by many to be a destination unto itself. "Home of a standout restaurant," raves Wine Spectator, this cozy venue enchants both locals, who are loyal to its excellent cuisine and wine list, and guests, who are pleased to discover that the restaurant's unparalleled standards are a benchmark for the warmth and hospitality of the inn.

The inn consists of a Victorian mansion originally built in 1882, a fully restored barn and private cottages. A lavish and peaceful environment is fostered with such distinctive furnishings as claw foot soaking tubs, sleigh beds and river stone fireplaces, as well as exposed old growth redwood beam ceilings and dramatic ocean views. Mingle with fellow guests during the complimentary wine hour, and relax under the stars in the six-person spa. From canoeing to biking to exploring the miles of trails at nearby Mendocino Headlands State Park, the region is awash in unforgettable ways to spend your days.

Message Edited by LL_Editor on 11-10-2006 05:50 PM ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/maccallum-house-inn-restaurant-bar-mendocino-california-694/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/biras-creek-british-virgin-islands-664/ Mon, 06 Nov 2006 21:40:25 GMT Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/1167/1167-gal-lrg-01.jpg Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/1167/1167-gal-lrg-02.jpg Some...


Some say Biras was an Arawak princess who hid from her enemies in the idyllic corner of the Caribbean known as Virgin Gorda. Those who've experienced the singular pleasures of Biras Creek, set on a 140-acre peninsula accessible only by boat, know the letters stand for Beauty, Intimacy, Repose, Activities and Sophistication. This Relais & Chateaux affiliate, boasting chic cottage suites, superior amenities and superb cuisine, indulges within an atmosphere of casual elegance and surroundings that can only be described as breathtaking.

Leisure and recreation brilliantly unite with sunning, swimming in Deep Bay, and complimentary water sports that include windsurfing and sea kayaking. Hike or bike the nearby hills, offering dramatic island views, or hop on a Boston Whaler and explore the protected waters of North Sound. Two floodlit Omni tennis courts await your presence, and the resort can easily arrange scuba diving, sailing or day trips to Jost Van Dyke and Tortola.

Message Edited by LL_Editor on 11-10-2006 09:39 AM

Message Edited by LL_Editor on 11-10-2006 09:42 AM ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/biras-creek-british-virgin-islands-664/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/point-grace-british-west-indies-663/ Mon, 06 Nov 2006 21:38:22 GMT Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/105864/105864-gal-lrg-01.jpg Image: http://www.luxurylink.com/images/por/105864/105864-gal-lrg-02.jpg ...


With its singular location on The Point of Grace Bays beautiful 12-mile beach, on the island of Providenciales in the British West Indies, Point Grace is spectacularly secluded. A tranquil beachfront setting provides the backdrop for the romantic suites and penthouses, whose dcor captures the flavor of yesteryear. Inspired by classic British Colonial architecture, this divine retreat unites tradition with 21st-century luxuries, such as Graces Cottage, an elegant restaurant showcasing the regions strong ethnic influences.

Named after Grace Hutchings, who visited here on her honeymoon in 1892, the bay and its surroundings seem untouched by time. Savor the magnificent views as you enjoy a treatment at The Thalasso Spa at Point Grace Resort. Magnificent coral reefs appeal to scuba divers and snorkelers, while marine parks, conch farms and wildlife reserves delight nature lovers. Whether out to sea on a fishing expedition, or golfing and gallery hopping on dry land, you will marvel at the islands wealth of diverse activities.







Message Edited by LL_Editor on 11-10-2006 03:04 PM ]]> LL_Customer_Service http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/ll_customer_service/point-grace-british-west-indies-663/