Last Call For XMAS Trips!

Still thinking about spending the holidays in a warm climate or exotic locale? What are you waiting for? Many resorts are fully booked and those that have limited space aren't giving it away (as many did last year!). But, that's not to say we can't help you plan a fabulous last-minute xmas or New Year's getaway...here are a few ideas to keep in mind as the holidays approach:

Families will find a few great options in San Diego, CA--from Four Seasons Aviara to La Costa Resort. At the latter, we've got the inside track on a few family suites priced just under $500/night (a steal for a two-bedroom suite!). Rate includes breakfast, and the location's close to kid-family attractions like SeaWorld, Legoland and the San Diego Zoo. Another great deal can be found at the Four Seasons Aviara: stay 3 nights and the 4th is free.

Also enjoy a complimentary 4th night through year's at one of my fave new Mexico resorts, Capella Ixtapa. In addition to the free 4th night, rates from $475/night include daily breakfast, upgrade if avail at check in, a $100/day resort credit and spa treatment discounts. If you've got Mexico on your mind, also consider St. Regis Punta Mita; xmas week rates start at $1,035/night & our clients enjoy butler service, breakfast, upgrade if avail & a 50-min spa treatment.

Limited space exists Xmas week at another fave warm-weather resort, La Samanna in St. Martin. One-bedroom, 830 square-foot suite rates, priced from $1925, include daily breakfast; upgrade if possible; champagne & additional VIP perks when booked through us. Two bedroom suites also still available & perfect for families.

Want something further afield? Hot hotels in Dubai have New Year's space; we recommend a Club Level room at The Address Downtown, priced from $587/nt including free wifi, Club Lounge access & airport transfers. A few of the fabulous Aman Resorts (like Amanusa, picture) in Bali also have limited holiday space; our clients enjoy daily breakfast, one lunch during stay and priority upgrade/VIP status.

Prefer a city celebration? In London, The Lanesborough ranks high on our list of preferred hotels. Our rates from 475GBP/night through the New Year's period include butler service, priority upgrades, daily English breakfast, free unlimited worldwide calls (ideal for calling friends/family around the globe to wish them Happy New Year!) and priority upgrade upon availability. We also love the chic Baglioni London, where our Virtuoso rates start at 395GBP/nt for jr suite accommodations & include daily English breakfast, upgrade, free pressing of one suit/shirt, 4 pm check out and free high speed internet access.

Last minute holiday space updates are changing daily so please call or email us for the latest news & updates. At presstime, limited space was still available at the following fabulous spots: St Lucia's lovely Cap Maison Resort; Punta Cana's Sivory Resort; the Fairmont Orchid and the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua in Hawaii; in the Turks & Caicos at The Turks & Caicos Club; in NYC at The Essex House; in Vegas at the brand new Mandarin Oriental; in Arizona at the Four Seasons Scottdale; and in beautiful Beverly Hills at the Montage Beverly Hills.

For more details and help planning your last minute holiday trip, call us at 310 979 9036 or email us at elitetravelgal@gmail.com.

PURE News, Part 2...

As promised, here's the inside scoop on a few more cool, very unique travel experiences I discovered on my recent visit to Marrakech for the 1st annual PURE Life Experiences travel show:

One of the hottest hotel openings this year, hands down, will be The Ranch at Rock Creek, near Philipsburg, Montana. Set for a soft opening this Dec. 17, the all-inclusive, 6,000-acre resort (shown) offers luxe accommodations in heated signature tents, main lodge rooms as well as plush 3- to 5-bedroom log homes. Pricing includes all meals, drinks, airport transfers and most activities, which run the gamut from horseback riding and fly fishing to hiking, biking, clay shooting, archery, river rafting--even bowling at the on-site 4-lane alley! A gorgeous spa plus close proximity to golfing, skiing at Discovery Hill & local attractions (ie, ghost towns, live theater, historical sites) are additional unique selling points. The property is perfect for a destination wedding, a corporate retreat, a family vacation or an active yet relaxing getaway for, well, just about anyone!

In a totally different corner of the world is yet another favorite find of mine: the Saadani Safari Lodge. Billed as a "Safari Lodge on a Beach", this intimate oceanfront property was named "Chic Shack" of the year in 2008 by Elle Magazine and is located just 15 minutes by air from Zanzibar. Activities include both riverboat and walking safaris as well as game drives, which can be followed by a relaxing afternoon at the swimming pool or a walk on the beach (possibly following the footprints of a lion who lives nearby!). Accommodations are tented oceanview cottages swathed in Zanzibar netting, some feature al fresco (screened in) beds for full effect of the amazing natural setting. Also an option: the luxurious Siri Suite, complete with private kitchen, private pool, private beach access, private safaris, al fresco shower & butler service. Coming soon: Saadani River Lodge. Opening next summer, the Lodge's sister property is a 18-room gem that will feature hidden treehouse-style rooms, ideal for those seeking a truly secluded retreat!

Another very cool option for an active, outdoorsy-style getaway is Sonora Resort, an 88-room retreat located in British Columbia, 45 minutes from Vancouver by helicopter. Following an $80 million renovation, the property now features everything from indoor tennis courts to a 12-seat movie theater, a heated oceanview ppol, a putting green, virtual golf, kayaking, world-famous fly fishing and even Grizzly Bear tours! Gourmet meals (prepared by one of the Top Foodies Under 40 according to Western Living) and all drinks, activities, wireless internet, phone service in North America are included in the rates, which range from about $600-$800 (per room, double) depending on the season.

For more information on these incredibly cool properties or to discuss your next getaway, contact Elite Travel International at 310.979.9036 or via email at elitetravelgal@gmail.com.

PURE News, Part One...

I just returned from a week in Marrakech where I, along with 700 leading travel industry buyers and sellers, attended the first annual, invitation-only PURE Life Experiences global travel trade show. This wasn't just any travel trade show. Over a course of five days, I had the chance to meet & mingle--in Morocco!--with the owners & operators of some of the coolest travel companies in the world.


Here's the first of several posts highlighting some of my favorite PURE discoveries:



One of my favorite new companies is AquaExpeditions , a two-year-old Peru-based soft-adventure specialist run by CEO/owner Francesco Galli Zugaro. Set to debut a sister ship to its 24-passenger, 130-foot custom-built MV Aqua next year, Aqua Expeditions allows guests to enjoy the most unspoiled reaches of the Peruvian Amazon--in comfort--for three, four or seven nights. According to National Geographic Traveler Editor Keith Bellows: "If you want to see the real Amazon, the Aqua is the way to do it." All-inclusive rates run from $2,250 (3 nights) to $5,250 (7 nights) per person.


If you do prefer a Peruvian land adventure, consider the 7-day/6-night Machu Picchu lodge-to-lodge run by Mountain Lodges of Peru. Priced from $2,010/person, this guided small group trip (no more than 12 people) includes 4 to 6 hours of guided walking per day, all meals and comfortable accommodations in four small lodges along the Inca Trail. I highly recommend extending your stay at the Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel, a 60-room luxury boutique hotel at the base of Machu Picchu town (20 minutes from the archaeological site). This chic two-year-old property features an outdoor restaurant w/stunning views, locally designed, Andean-style furnishings, a spa, yoga, cooking lessons & gourmet cuisine prepared by one of Peru's top chefs.


For a true respite, a week at one of the wellness retreats I discovered at PURE may be in order. Take your pick: Valencia, Spain or the Kenyan coast? In Spain (just outside Valencia), the Sha Wellness Clinic is a former country house-turned-wellness clinic. Built on the principals of prevention and well-being, Sha is "macrobiotics for modern times," according to its owners, who tell me: "You come here to change your life". The stylish accommodations and setting are just the backdrop for the true purpose of a week's stay at Sha, which include a personalized treatments/stress management program, macriobiotic meals, spa treatments, yoga & accommodations in a seaview suite.

I promised Sabina, the Italian-born, Kenya-based manager of Lion in the Sun Retreat, I will absolutely come visit her next year and I intend to live up to my word. Formerly a private house, this charming property owned by Italian doctor Henri Chenot is definitely where to head when detox + R&R are in order. Set across from a stunning private beach, the Kenyan retreat offers tailor-made wellness programs featuring a mix of Chinese & Western medicine, hydrotherapy, spa treatments, accommodations and delicious healthy meals. Who wants to join me on a Kenyan wellness retreat in 2010?


For more information on any of the companies mentioned, feel free to email elitetravelgal@gmail.com or visit www.elitetravelinternational.com. Look for additional EliteTravelGal posts this week highlighting other cool discoveries from PURE Life!

The Lowdown on Luxury Hotels & Why to Book Now Not Later...

A few months ago, I wrote a post stating that I disagreed with MSNBC's article about how 2010 would be "the year of the travel deal". I commented that 2009 was indeed the year of the travel deal, and those who hadn't taken advantage of the deep discounts on offer would likely lose out on the lowest prices we've seen in years.

After spending all of today trying to find space over Xmas at a luxury resort for a family of 11 and nearly coming up empty (with the exception of $3,800/night suites, $2000/night rooms or a private home rental for $75,000/week), I hold fast to my original theory. And I'm not the only one. A report published today by Bestfares.com states: "US airfares are increasing daily, and those who hold out in hopes of travel bargains this winter season are being punished. In fact, some routes are 50 percent more expensive now, compared with their price over the summer.



Does this mean don't travel? OF COURSE NOT. It simply means STOP waiting for the fares and rates to drop, as they already hit rock bottom earlier this year. And, if you're even thinking about taking a holiday vacation--or traveling to a warm weather destination anytime this winter, you'd best make plans sooner than later.



As I stated in this month's Cigar Aficionado article titled "Luxury For Less", we are in fact, still seeing offers for free nights & value adds at luxury hotels (including many that never offered such options in the past). But in order to enjoy them, book soon or risk finding no--or high-priced--airline seats to your resort of choice.

A few of the luxe properties offering post-holiday& high-season specials, including free nights with a minium four-night stay, are: Jade Mountain, St. Lucia; Caneel Bay, St. John; Little Dix Bay, Virgin Gorda; Pink Sands, Bahamas; Rosewood Mayakoba, Mexico; and Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos.



And, for those of you who've not yet made your XMAS/New Year's plans, contact us ASAP. Unlike this time last year, space IS limited but we DO have inside scoop on limited last-minute options on St. Barts, Anguilla, Turks & Caicos, Cabo & Punta Mita.

The BEST deal I've seen still on offer for XMAS/New Year's week is the 20 percent discount available at Capella Resorts--in both Cabo and Ixtapa, Mexico. The latter has amazing suites with private oceanview plunge pools priced from just $475 (pre-discount), including daily breakfast. This deal disappears on Nov 15, however, so heed the advice I gave months ago--and BestFares.com gave today. THIS is the year of the travel deal.

For more information on any of the resorts mentioned, or to book an upcoming holiday or winter trip, contact us via email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or call 310.979.9036.

SMALL LUXURY HOTELS SUPPORTS MY BDAY CANCER CAMPAIGN!

As if you really needed an extra-good reason to donate to breast cancer research, here's one that's hard to beat: Small Luxury Hotels is donating a FIVE-NIGHT stay at any of its worldwide properties. Yes, you heard correct. The ONLY thing YOU need to do for a chance at winning this incredible free luxury vacation valued at $2,500 is to donate $25 or more, by Monday (my birthday) to my chosen cause. http://bit.ly/SLHBDAYCAMPAIGN

Here's the scoop: Having lost my dad way too young after a long cancer battle, my efforts to raise money for cancer research (specifically the Breast Cancer Research Foundation) are done in his memory. These efforts also honor my mom--a two-time breast cancer survivor. Her ability to live with this dreadful disease--once a likely death sentence--is largely due to the tireless researchers funded by Evelyn Lauder's Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF).

My primary reason for choosing BCRF as my charity of choice is because nearly EVERY penny raised goes straight to fund the research for the CURE.

My only birthday wish this year is to continue to raise $$$ for BCRF, which like all charities, takes a hit in tough economic times. Helping BCRF fund the research needed to find a CURE in our lifetime is the best birthday gift any of my friends, colleagues, associates & loved ones worldwide could possibly give me.

With over 500 independent hotels in more than 70 countries, the choice of experiences that Small Luxury Hotels of the World offers is infinite. Whether it is a romantic hideaway, safari lodge, city sanctuary or spa retreat, with Small Luxury Hotels of the World you will encounter only the very best as you "Experience the World". **Terms and conditions apply.

Entering the contest is SIMPLE. Just click here for details and to enter: http://bit.ly/SLHBDAYCAMPAIGN. REMEMBER: Anyone who donates more than $25 to my BIRTHDAY BREAST CANCER CAMPAIGN is automatically entered to win. Winner will be chosen at random on my birthday, Monday November 2 at 5 pm PST so get your entries in as soon as possible!

Of course, please do me a special favor and support our amazingly generous friends at Small Luxury Hotels by fanning them on Facebook www.facebook.com/smallluxuryhotelsoftheworld and following them on Twitter http://twitter.com/SLHluxuryhotels.

Thank you, and don't forget to click here http://bit.ly/SLHBDAYCAMPAIGN to donate and earn a chance to win this fabulous free FIVE-night stay at any of the 500+ Small Luxury Hotels in the world!!

Questions? Email me: elitetravelgal@gmail.com, find me on Facebook www.facebook.com/stacysmall and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/elitetravelgal.

Peruvian Adventures

No doubt, Machu Picchu is a must see when in Peru but if you don't take time to explore other regions of this fascinating country--like the Colca Canyon (where I'm pictured w/friend Samantha Steckbeck)--you are truly missing out! My first (and surely not last) visit to Peru was a study in a whole different world--one where locals work & live off the land, and where a form of simplicity we never see in the States still exists.

Sure, the city of Lima--where our journey began--is a bustling, growing city. But like any major city it's one of extremes...from the upscale residentials areas like Miraflores to the poorer ethnic neighborhoods. Despite the contrasts, the city is a beautiful one--bordering the Pacific Ocean and boasting its unique architectural style. And, there's no denying that Lima well deserves its moniker the "Food Capital of Peru." The sophistication of the award-winning chefs (Nobu Matsuhisa is half Peruvian!) coupled with the diversity and quality of the food--most freshly grown--is just amazing. Lima's definitely on my list of cities to return to, and recently renovated, all-suite oceanview Miraflores Park Hotel is certainly where I'll stay again (hey, if it's good enough for Depeche Mode, whose bandmembers were in house the night we arrived, it's surely good enough for me!).

From Lima, a short LAN flight took us to Cuzco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire located in southeastern Peru near the Sacred Valley of the Andes. At 11,000 feet, the World Heritage Site's altitude is not for the faint of heart (be sure to book an oxygen-enriched room at the 16th century monastery-turned-Hotel Monasterio). Highly recommend spending a day here adjusting (and sipping coca tea) before taking the famous Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu for the day (or night, should you desire to enjoy the setting sans tourists late eve or early morning). The train ride is just over 3 hours, and includes a meal, drinks and entertainment each way. Should you opt to spend the night, the Orient-Express Hotels-run Sanctuary Lodge is the obvious place to do so. Next time I visit I'll stay the night for sure, if only to have time to join the outdoor yoga class (complete with Machu Picchu views!).

Be sure to leave atleast three or more nights at the end of your trip to experience Peru at its finest & most authentic in the Colca Canyon. One of the most visually stunning destinations I've encountered in my travels, Colca Canyon in the Andes is one of the deepest canyons in the world at 10,725 feet. Las Casitas Del Colca, now topping my list of all-time favorite hotels, is well worth the three-hour drive from the "White City" of Arequipa for its luxurious private casitas (each with backyard terrace/plunge pool, outdoor showers and incredible views--not to mention, frequent visits from the live-in llamas!) and the unbelievable food (most of it grown right on property under the watchful eye of fabulous General Manager Cesar Torres). A visit to hotel's gorgeous Spa Samay for a massage with Giovanna is a must, as is an early wake up call for the hour-long scenic drive to witness the Cross of the Condors. Other than that, nothing is mandatory in this part of the world where it's commonplace to see donkeys and alpaca crossing the roads, families working in the farms and local childrens greeting you with a sonrisa (smile).

Other Peru tips: Drink a few Pisco Sours (the signature drink of Peru), enjoy the fresh local cuisine, and be sure to stop in at the local markets (especially in Cuzco) to pick up hand-knit alpaca scarves, hats & sweaters (I scored a gorgeous sweater for only $10!). Chat with the locals (in Spanish if you can) and be sure to book plenty of downtime at each of the fabulous Orient-Express hotels mentioned above. At Las Casitas, optional activities include horseback riding, cooking lessons & baby Alpaca feedings!

A full Peruvian itinerary can be easily arranged through Orient-Express' Peru Experiences, complete with amazing private guided tours (it's a must to schedule these with my personal favorite tour guide Jack Bytton). One of only 2,500 Jewish people in Peru, Bytton (who lived in the States & worked as a guide at New York City's Holocaust Museum) has an infectious personality and a passion for showing every one of his guests the BEST OF PERU. The South American country is one I cannot wait to visit again, and highly recommend you too will add it to your list of destinations you MUST VISIT SOON.

The best way to travel to and from Peru, of course, is on LAN. The comfy business class seats with lie-flat bed capabilityare among the best in the sky, and the airline's entertainment system tops all others for variety & quality of movie/tv/music choices. Nonstop flights from both coasts with convenient departure/arrival times are another bonus!

For more details, or to plan your visit to Peru, please contact us at 310.979.9036 or via email at elitetravelgal@gmail.com.

Me & Montana: Love at First Sight

Montana's long been on my wish list of spots to visit. After a recent visit to The Resort at Paws Up, it's now on my list of places to return to time and time again. To say I loved The Resort at Paws Up is putting it mildly. Located about 40 minutes from Missoula, MT, this four-year old property is one of the most unique resorts I've ever visited. There's a huge WOW factor when you walk into your gorgeous three-bedroom Estate Home-- each with two floors, fireplace, huge deck w/hot tub, and stunning views of the Great Outdoors....and the aptly named "Big Sky". I enjoyed these views from nearly every room in the house, including my master bath (outfitted with heated floors, double-head rain shower & huge jacuzzi tub).

Built on a 37,000-acre former working cattle ranch, The Resort at Paws Up is the perfect spot for families as well as adults looking to indulge their inner-kid. Anyone who ever spent time at summer camp (as I did!) will adore this grown-ups version, albeit with a full bar and much more fun activities than we had growing up (ie, ATV rides, horseback lessons, fly-fishing, river rafting & spa treatments in heated tents!). Speaking of tents, if you're truly looking for the luxury camping experience, opt to stay at Tent City or River Camp...a small complex each of 6 tents (the latter front the Blackfoot River and has two 2-bedroom tents!).

It's not just the accommodations & activities that make The Resort at Paws Up so special. The owner's own love for animals results in a very pet-friendly environment (dogs are welcome, and they even have a dedicated weekend in April called Wine & Bitch Festival for those who, well, love wine & dogs...).

The Resort's dedication to amazing food and wine is apparent in the extensive wine list as well as the phenomenal meals we had at Pomp, the main dining room (formerly the cowboys' cafeteria). Also loved the hearty breakfasts at Trough, the casual dining spot adjacent to Tank, the cozy, fireplace-heated bar/lounge where I highly recommend the signature "gingeritas".

Rates vary throughout the year, with best values available October & after Jan 5 through May. (NOTE: These are terrific time periods to plan a group/high end incentive program!). There is also still an opportunity to book a fabulous XMAS vacation (5-night minimum) at Paws Up, inclusive of sleigh rides, Santa visits, Xmas-trees & all sorts of special family-focused activities. It's a great option for extended families, especially those who relish the idea of a traditional, snowy holiday vacation!

Should you prefer a spring time visit, consider joining us for the First Annual Elite Travel Gals' Getaway to Paws Up April 14-17 or 14-2, 2010 (both a 3nt and 7nt package available). Our discounted Virtuoso rates start at under $300/night (based on 4 ppl in a home) inclusive of all taxes and meals, plus a $150 activity credit (for those who book by year's end)! I'll be there for sure, with atleast one of my dogs in tow...hope you'll join us!

For more information on vacation options at The Resort at Paws Up or the Elite Travel Gals' Getaway, contact elitetravelgal@gmail.com or phone 310 979 9036.