The Elite Travel Gal

Luxury Hotels I LOVED in 2011

2012-01-22T07:47:00.000-08:00

Some hotels just do everything right. Or nearly everything. And, as we roll into another busy year of booking luxury travel for some of the coolest people on the planet, I've been reflecting on those properties I personally visited in 2011 that top my list of winners. These are the hotels that have earned a spot on my "top of mind" list, for various reasons ranging from impeccable service to ultra-cool design to impressive renovations to tiny details that wow every time.

There are of course, SO many phenomenal hotels we love, and will add to future lists as we revisit them this year or in the future. But for now, in no particular order, here is my personal Top 10 List of Hotels I Visited & Loved in 2011:

1) Four Seasons Lanai at Manele Bay
If you watched recent episodes of "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills", you got a glimpse of this gorgeous Hawaiian property on lush Lanai. I easily could have stayed a few weeks, working from my oceanview terrace in between phenomenal massages and delicious meals (both here and at sister property, the Lodge at Koele). The General Manager and his entire staff from the sales/marketing team to the reservation directors to housekeeping all go the extra mile for our Preferred Partner clients.

2) Mandarin-Oriental, Barcelona
An amazing location overlooking Passeig de Gracia, sleek/chic rooms and suites (my favorite are those with a private terrace), a fantastic spa, outdoor pool with stunning views, and an uber-friendly staff anxious to share tips about their terrific city are what put this hotel on the top of my list in Barcelona.

3) Montage Deer Valley, Deer Valley Utah
Hands down, this the best new luxury resort to open in the mountains in years. The newest in a trio that already includes favorites in Laguna and Beverly Hills, Montage Deer Valley (pictured) is as much fun in the summer (think amazing hiking, biking, white water rafting) as it is during ski season (the slopeside location is key). A gorgeous spa, terrific dining options, incredible service, and even a billiards room & bowling alley set this resort apart from others in ski country.

4) Hotel Le Bristol, Paris, France
Fresh from a multi-million dollar renovation, this classic Parisian hotel is THE place to stay for impeccable service in a traditional French setting with a modern twist. The new suites (especially those with Eiffel Tower views) are over-the-top, and the city center location is always a draw.

5) Beach Village at Hotel Del Coronado, San Diego
Want your own beach house but not ready to totally commit? No need to, as you can simply book a stay here at Beach Village on the grounds of famous Hotel Del. The only difference is, when you stay at Beach Village, you're literally steps from the sand in your private oceanview residence yet you still get to enjoy the beauty and benefits of the iconic (and newly renovated) Hotel Del.

6) The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua Resort, Kapalua, Maui
Every family we booked here this year had the same thing to say: This place is phenomenal! From the awesome views to spacious, family-friendly suites to the delicious cuisine to the friendly staff, it's a winner all around. Personally, I loved the spa/fitness center (especially the yoga classes), the stunning setting and overall vibe of this Hawaiian resort.

7) The Marbella Club, Marbella Spain
I dream about a return visit to this Costa Del Sol beach resort that exceeded all of my expectations, by a lot! Lounging by the oceanfront pool, spending time at the Thalasso Spa and relaxing on my gardenview terrace were highlights of my too-short visit to the only place I'd ever want to stay in Marbella.

8) Acqualina Resort, Sunny Isles, FL
This is truly the example of a resort that gets it right. From the minute you arrive and are welcomed by name to the warm hospitality extended til the minute you leave, coupled with gorgeous (and huge) oceanfront suites, a beautiful spa, fantastic food (delivered to your beach chair if you desire) and a gazillion activities for kids, everyone is easily pleased at Acqualina. Delicious sushi (perfect for a room-service snack) and an Il Mulino on-site are added bonuses I loved!

9) Le Royal Monceau, Paris
The oh-so-chic Royal Monceau hotel is definitely the place to stay for the stylish, fun, "not into cookie cutter hotels" crowd. Everywhere you turn is an unexpected surprise from designer Philippe Starck, but in a good, grown-up way. Lush colors and fabrics blend perfectly with the funky furnishings, and the suites (especially where JLo stayed) are simply gorgeous. The Italian and French restaurants are notable both for their whimsical decor and their sublime cuisine, with incredible service to match.

10) Four Seasons Los Angeles and Four Seasons Westlake Village
This last spot goes to sister properties as they're both on my list of faves for similar reasons: Close to home! An oldie but goodie, Four Seasons LA makes the list after super-impressing me on a "bizcation" I took in my own town last spring. I truly loved every moment of Four Seasons service at its best, and the Sunday brunch remains the best in town. And, having just revisited Four Seasons Westlake, I'll go on record saying it's my favorite spot to "get away" when I don't have time (or the desire) to get on a plane. My perfect 48-hour retreat came complete with spa time (I adore the private spa suites), fitness classes and delicious healthy food in a Zen-inspired, art-filled, pet-friendly setting (they know how to VIP the dogs!).

All of the above properties offer exclusive VIP amenities/perks to Elite Travel International clients, ranging from breakfast-inclusive rates to resort credits to spa treatments, priority upgrades, late check-out and more. For details or to book an upcoming stay at any of my favorites, send me an email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or call 310.979.9036.

An Optimistic Take on 2012

2012-01-06T15:08:00.000-08:00

While I don't agree with the title "Travel Agents Set to Bounce Back in 2012" of this article written by Adam Leposa, it's always refreshing to read anything that validates what it is we at Elite Travel International do for our clients! I've long believed that even our most tech-savvy and sophisticated clients fully understand and appreciate my expertise and continue to witness how our extensive worldwide connections benefit them as they jetset around the globe. An excerpt of the article is below in case you missed the link on my Facebook page or Twitter feed.

According to Adam Leposa of TravelAgentCentral.com: "Travel agents received a nice Christmas present when the Miami Herald spoke of their successes. The Herald cited a study by Forrester Research that found the number of leisure travelers who enjoyed using the Internet to book travel fell from 53 percent in 2007 to 47 percent in 2010, as well as a survey by the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) that showed 44 percent of agents said they had more clients in 2010 than in 2009."

“[Travelers] don’t have hours to spend on research to compare multiple flights, multiple cruises, multiple packages,” Henry Harteveldt, a travel industry analyst at Forrester Research, told the Miami Herald. “It’s not unlike doing your taxes. Depending who you are, what your priorities are, there are some people who will choose to do it themselves or to use a professional.”

2011 also garnered increased publicity for travel agents after President Obama made comments implying that the Internet had replaced travel agents, sparking a flurry of counterarguments by industry groups like ASTA that underscored just how important the travel agent industry is.

“Travel agents work as personal advisors to provide their clients with the best travel experience before during and after their trip,” ASTA CEO Tony Gonchar wrote in a letter to the President. “Thanks to their in-depth knowledge, experience and industry connections, travel agents are able not only to save their clients money, but their most valuable possession—their time.”

Looking ahead, organizations from around the industry are forecasting positive trends for 2012. Travel Leaders’ annual Travel Trends Survey shows that over 91 percent of Travel Leaders members expect clients to spend the same or more on travel in 2012 as compared to 2011. The United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) in its annual member survey revealed that 75 percent of its members are confident of sales growth in 2012. Finally, in the 2012 Travel-Ticker Traveler Intentions survey of consumers 44 percent of respondents planned to travel more in 2012 than 2011.

For more information on how we can assist with all of your travel needs, email me directly stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or phone 310.979.9036

Acqualina Resort and Spa: Miami Nice!

2011-11-27T16:09:00.000-08:00

When a 12-year old kid says "I want to live in this hotel" as he is leaving, you know it has to be a special place. Such was the case with my nephew, who joined me for a post-Thanksgiving weekend on the beach at Acqualina Resort and Spa in Sunny Isles (near Miami), FL. He's not the only one who feels this way! I too, found myself thinking I could easily live here in our huge one-bedroom oceanview suite with its incredible beach views, gourmet kitchen (perfect for preparing Sunday brunch en suite), a bathroom the size of many hotel rooms, and a staff that simply couldn't be nicer. From Rodrigo at the front desk to all of the guys at the valet desk and at the beach, to Tino, the gracious Maitre'd at Il Mulino (where we had one of my favorite meals in the world), to the fantastic housekeeping staff who all made fast friends with Mikey the maltipoo (who also made himself perfectly at home at this pet-friendly Leading Hotel of the World), not a single staff member could have done his or her job any better.

I travel all of the time to visit hotels all over the world and it's not often I stay somewhere and find nothing I would change. They simply do everything right at Acqualina, and the exquisite decor, the discreet high-end service, and the impressive attention to detail does not go unnoticed. Families are certainly catered to, with plenty of kids activities from watersports to basketball to ping pong and pool games, and adults who prefer a quieter getaway will find it at the 20,000 square-foot Spa by ESPA with its serene oceanfront pool, impressive complimentary crystal steam/Finnish sauna facilities, beachfront yoga classes by Yogiiza, and a 24-hour gym.

While I never really enjoyed living in South Florida during my five-year stint, this three-night stay at Acqualina Resort and Spa in Sunny Isles definitely changed my mind about the Sunshine State. We'll be back to visit my newest favorite hotel sooner than later, and I am sure my nephew is looking forward to a return visit as well!

Our Virtuoso rates always include breakfast, a resort credit, upgrade priority, VIP treatment and more. Email me for more details at stacy@elitetravelinternational.com

Virtuoso Travel Mart = My Fashion Week

2011-09-16T10:27:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I returned from the annual Virtuoso Travel Mart in Las Vegas where I had the chance to meet with hundreds of top luxury hotels and travel companies....in person, one on one....and hear about the latest, greatest openings, renovations, excusive promotions and unique opportunities for our jet-setting clients.

In essence, Virtuoso Travel Mart to someone like me who eats, breathes, sleeps luxury travel is akin to New York Fashion Week for the fashionistas. It's the ultimate "Travel Buyer's Market" and an incredible way for me to find out what's hot and happening in the luxury travel world so that we can continue to stay on top of the trends and present the absolute best ideas and options for our clients around the globe. Just like the buyer from Barney's needs to know what's hot for fall fashion, I need to know the same for luxury travel.

The amount of information I brought home from Vegas this year is beyond "blog-post" friendly, but I do want to share some of my favorite finds. Below are just a few of the very cool things I learned at Virtuoso Travel Mart 2011 (more to come in next post, I promise!):

1. Hayman Island on Australia's Great Barrier Reef reopened August 1 after its cyclone-forced closure and an extensive renovation. What wows me most are the eight brand new Beach Villas, designed by Amanresorts designer Kerry Hill. .

Each villa features a private pool, a totally private terrace, outdoor shower, water views and very cool technology that even includes Apple TV with cable and movies. The "new" Hayman has honeymoon written all over it

2. Bulgari's newest hotel will open next spring in central London (near Hyde Park), just in time for the 2012 Olympics. The luxury brand's third hotel--following Milan & Bali--will have a sleek, silver-themed design and will feature 85 rooms and suites, a private screening room, a huge spa and an indoor pool. As a sibling of Ritz-Carlton, the Bulgari London will offer our clients exclusive STARS benefits along with VIP Virtuoso perks.

3. One of my favorite Italian hotels, the Gritti Palace in Venice, is closing for a 15-month, 43 milliion Euro renovation this fall. Upon reopening in January 2013, the legendary canal-side hotel will feature modern technology and a gorgeous new room and suite product. Recently added to the Virtuoso Venice hotel portfolio is the Gritti's 225-room sister property, Hotel Danieli (shown).

Fresh from a total redo of all three wings, the historic Danieli offers our Virtuoso clients breakfast-inclusive rates, priority upgrades and a $75 credit for dinner at the famed Terraza Danieli.

4. Casa del Campo in La Romana, Dominican Republic is already an incredible vacation option for families, couples, golfers and it will be even easier for our NYC-area clients to reach when JetBlue adds twice-weekly service straight into La Romana from JFK this November. The totally renovated property features gorgeous suites and private villa homes, complete with their own private pools and access to the new BeachClub by Le Cirque.

All-inclusive options are available; our Virtuoso rates include full breakfast or a $200 spa credit depending on rate type booked. Note: There's Xmas space available for those still deciding where to spend the holidays, and until December 20, enjoy a free 5th night!

5. If all (or mostly) inclusive rates appeals to you, then you'll love the new concept from select Four Seasons hotels inlcuding those in Denver, Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, Nevis, Palm Beach, Punta Mita (shown below), Scottsdale and Whistler.

The new packages include all sorts of extras from meals to in-room movies to complimentary parking, golf, transfers, spa treatments, golf, cabana rentals and more. The specific packages vary by property and are often combinable with our Preferred Partner perks.

For more information on the hottest happenings at the best luxury hotels or to book your next luxury vacation (or business trip!), contact me via email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or call 310.979.9036.

Summer in the Mountains

2011-08-08T18:56:00.000-07:00

In between booking incredible summer and fall vacations for our clients, I made an executive decision to take a much-needed, long weekend break to a hot new property I've been dying to see before it even opened. A huge fan of its sisters at the beach in Laguna and close by in Beverly Hills, I had no doubt that I'd fall in love at first sight with Montage Deer Valley. My hunch was 1000 percent correct, the newest Montage resort did NOT disappoint.

With its wonderful setting just minutes from downtown Park City, Utah and slopeside in Deer Valley amidst a backdrop of seemingly endless mountains, the 154-room resort is ideal for families (there are more activities for kids than I could count). It also works perfectly as a romantic getaway, was the site of a gorgeous wedding while we were there, and can easily accommodate high-end meetings and small groups. Spacious mountain-view rooms and suites, as well as huge residential-style two- to four-bedroom private residences, are beautifully decorated with plush furnishings, fireplaces, oversized tubs, full kitchens, and in most cases, patios and terraces with beautiful mountain views.

I only wish I'd added on a few extra days so I could have taken a few more mountain bike rides and hikes, and had a few more hours to relax by one of the hotel's two pools(outdoors when the sun was shining, indoors as the sun went down). The Thai yoga massage I received at Spa Montage from Brandon was one of the best I've had anywhere (including Thailand), and the food at both Apex (dont miss the lake trout) and Daly's was great. With billiard tables, video games and even four bowling lanes, Daly's is the perfect hang out after a long day in the great outdoors (such as the one we had on the Heber River rafting with the very fun team from All Seasons Sports).

Come winter, it's easy to picture skiers loving the level of luxury provided, from the custom-equipment fitting done right on-property by the hotel's own highly-trained staff to the infamous boot warmers to the hotel's slopeside location that allows incredibly easy access to Deer Valley's best runs.

The close proximity of Montage Deer Valley to Main Street Park City is another key selling point. The hotel has a fleet of Mercedes SUVs with drivers to shuttle guests back and forth, making it extremely easy to enjoy the town at their leisure. I'd definitely return to a few of the restaurants we tried, including Talisker on Main, Zoom, and Cafe Terigo. In fact, I WILL revisit these spots when I return to Montage Deer Valley next summer!

If you're considering a ski vacation this winter or looking for a last-minute summer or pre-snow fall getaway, definitely consider Montage Deer Valley. It's easy to get to from most spots (you fly into Salt Lake City) and we have amazing Virtuoso rates and added perks to offer (daily breakfast, upgrade priority, late 4pm check-out and special VIP treatment from our on-property friends!). Please contact me to inquire about summer and winter rates at Montage Deer Valley via email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or phone 310-979-9036.

Elite Travel Gal's Insider Guide to LA

2011-07-11T11:55:00.000-07:00

This summer, I decided to try something different. Instead of traveling to faraway places (as I do constantly all year), I thought it would be nice to spend much of the summer here in LA. After all, it is my favorite city in the world. In revisiting my own city, I've had the chance to uncover and rediscover my own personal "Best of LA". Below are my insider tips on what NOT to miss when you visit Los Angeles next:

Best newish restaurants: They've all been open for a bit so aren't completely new, but those new to my favorites list include Red Medicine (pictured), Cleo at The Redbury, Scarpetta at Montage Beverly Hills, Culina at Four Seasons Los Angeles, La Sandia at Santa Monica Place and Public at The Roosevelt. Yes, four out of six of these are in hotels (all but Red Medicine) but they're better than most stand-alone restaurants in LA.

Best spots for a power breakfast, or any breakfast for that matter: BLVD at The Beverly Wilshire and the rooftop poolside restaurant at The Peninsula Beverly Hills.

Best spot for lunch with a Hollywood view: Poolside at The Conservatory at Montage Beverly Hills. Stunning views to be had of the Hollywood Hills and the fish tacos may be the best in town. Poolside at Four Seasons Los Angeles is perfect if you prefer privacy and an intimate outdoor setting with your seafood salad (my personal favorite) or veggie stir-fry.

Best spot in Malibu for a casual lunch or dinner: Cafe Habana (by Rande Gerber) at the Malibu Lumber Yard. The corn on the cob, shrimp ceviche, fish tacos and chicken enchilada are stand-outs & there's usually a celeb spotting or two!

Best casual Santa Monica lunch spot: My top vote goes to FIG at Fairmont Miramar. Dishes run the gamut from healthy (warm quinoa salad) to completely unhealthy (a hot dog with fritos on top and fries on the side). Great service, cheerful setting and always a terrific experience.

Best special occasion restaurants: All of those on my "newish favorites" also make this list, to which I'd add Whist at Viceroy Santa Monica, The Bazaar by Jose Andres at the SLS and WP24 at the Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles. After all these years, both Spago's Beverly Hills and Chinois on Main Street still deserves a shout out as they continue to impress with amazing food and warm service.

Best pizza (including gluten-free options for yours truly): Fresh Brothers, now open in Beverly Hills in addition to five other locations from Manhattan Beach to Calabasas

Best facialist in town: Hands down, the best hands in town belong to Vera Kantor, owner of VeraBella in Beverly Hills. Everyone from Nicole Richie to Madonna trust her with their skin, for good reason: she's the best.

Best juice in town: Pressed Juicery of course. Thrilled to see they've taken their healthy show on the road and opened at the Malibu Lumber Yard (as of last week) in addition to the Country Mart in Brentwood.

Best gluten-free bakery: Babycakes LA. A NYC import, this place rocks and is reason alone to drive downtown. Most of their delicious offerings (donuts, cupcakes, muffins, brownies) are gluten-free/vegan but you'd never know. We also love the chocolate brownies from Livia's. Handmade with love by a local family, these can be found for sale every Sunday at the Brentwood Farmer's Market (among others).

Best organic yogurt & treats: Cafe Rivva in Brentwood Gardens (same spot where my favorite nail salon, Nail Garden is located) is not just another Pinkberry-type frozen yogurt spot. There are multiple choices of organic flavor options, dairy free & wheat free options too. Chris the owner is fantastic, tell him I sent you if you stop by!

Best yoga spot: For years, I have been a YogaWorks loyalist and I still am. I rotate my mat between the Montana Ave, South Bay and Pacific Palisades studios depending on my schedule and who's teaching. Fave teachers include Al Tavera, Nichola Dunne, Doug Binzak and Amy Rose Stabley.

Other local gems: You'd never know about these places unless a local takes you....A Votre Sante in Brentwood for healthy cuisine morning til night, The Farmshop at the Brentwood Country Mart, Compartes in Brentwood for handmade chocolates, Lenny's Deli in Pacific Palisades for a typical deli-style meal, and Lares or Don Antonios for traditional Mexican food.

This is just a sampling of my personal favorites. Of course, we can always assist with booking you into the BEST hotels here in LA as we have personal relationships with the general managers and staff at each. It goes without saying that Elite Travel International clients always get the VIP treatment and lots of extra special perks here in LA. Contact us elitetravelgal@gmail.com or 310.979.9036 for help with your next Los Angeles experience.

Stylish Summer Travel Specials

2011-06-20T12:58:00.000-07:00

Still deciding where to travel this summer? Need help narrowing down the options? Don't worry, as that is what we are here for. We know how overwhelming it can be when you're bombarded with emails, tweets and promos on a daily basis, so we regularly scour our luxury travel deal-filled inbox on your behalf. Below are a few favorite offers currently available to those seeking a relaxing upscale getaway in style.

Ventana Inn & Spa: Book a two-night stay in Big Sur through a preferred travel agency like Elite Travel International and receive a $100 to $200 resort credit depending on room/suite category. Book by July 18 for travel through December 30.

La Casa Que Canta: Enjoy Zihuatanejo at its best at this romantic gem where 3rd night is free through October. Our exclusive rates include breakfast for two, round-trip airport transfers + 20% discount on additional meals.

Four Seasons Milan: Shop til you drop then relax & dine in style at this fashionable hotel where you will enjoy 150 Euro food/beverage credit & 20% discount off city-wide limo services through Sept 4. In August, 3rd night's half off. Plus, enjoy our Preferred Partner perks (daily breakfast, a comp lunch and priority upgrade!).

Four Seasons Hualalai: You'll be hard-pressed to find a better family travel offer to Hawaii this summer. Fresh from a facelift, this luxurious Big Island resort (pictured) offers our clients a second room at 50% off Jun 20-July 21 and August 21-Nov 17, as well as Preferred Partner amenities (breakfast and a complimentary lunch).

XIV Beacon: Stay "Fit & Fabulous" this summer at this Boston boutique hotel with a wellness package priced from $985/night inclusive of a one-hour private yoga session in-room or on the private roof deck; one-day bike rental; one-hour deep tissue massage; and daily power breakfast.

Ritz-Carlton Caribbean: From Cancun to Grand Cayman to St. Thomas to San Juan (and Jamaica too), the Ritz-Carlton resorts of the region offer various 4th and 5th night free package options all summer long. Go all-inclusive from $439/night in Jamaica or Reconnect in St Thomas for $489/night with $100 hotel credit as an extra bonus. Be sure to ask us about our STARs priority perks!

Why book through Elite Travel International? We will always get you the absolute best value and VIP recognition from our friends at luxury hotels worldwide, and you'll enjoy exclusive VIP perks & amenities thanks to our privileged partnership with Virtuoso and our preferred agency status with Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Orient Express, Rosewood, Park Hyatt, Starwood, Leading Hotels of the World, Small Luxury Hotels, Preferred Hotels & others around the globe.
For more ideas and info, email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or phone 310.979.9036

Spain on the Brain

2011-05-18T03:49:00.000-07:00

Just a few days after returning from a 10-day adventure in Spain, I'm wishing I were still lounging poolside at the Marbella Club or strolling along the beach in Barceloneta (pictured) or shopping on Passeig de Gracia in Barcelona. It's rare that I return from a trip and just days later, am already plotting my return, but Madrid, Marbella & Barcelona are cities that have that "I want to go back" effect on me. Each has its own special selling points...

Madrid boasts stunning architecture, sophisticated style and beautiful buildings amidst sprawling parks. Marbella, to me, is the best of Miami & Malibu combined with its gorgeous beaches, the best hotel in Costa del Sol plus easy proximity to Puerto Banus, Ronda, Granada and the charming, boutique-filled Old Town Marbella to explore. And then there's Barcelona...the hip, cool, fun city dotted with chic hotels (including my new favorite, more on this below), amazing tapas bars, and art and style pretty much everywhere you look thanks to Miro, Gaudi, Picasso & more.

Not only did I love the locations in Spain, but stays at The Ritz Madrid, Marbella Club, and the new Mandarin Oriental Barcelona are a MUST.

The most stylish boutique hotel in Barcelona, with 98 rooms/suites, is the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona. Loved for its location right on Passeig de Gracia(between Brioni and Tiffany), the property is sleek but warm, with lots of light-filled space from its Blanc restaurant to the welcoming lobby to the guest rooms and suites (the ones with outdoor garden-facing terraces are my favorite).

The massive Penthouse Suite regularly hosts royal families, who love it for the fact that it takes up the entire top floor. Other memorable mentions: the Asian-inspired, peaceful Spa; the chic Banker's Bar (reflective of the building's "former bank" history"); a rooftop terrace with pool & cityviews (pictured); an outdoor garden for all-day courtyard dining; and most notably, a hands-on General Manager (Gerard Sintes) who's constantly seen chatting with his staff and his guests and ensuring that everyone in house is beyond well taken care of. Sidenote: When in Barcelona, don't miss the opportunity to book an outdoor table at local favorite La Bodega or to book seats at a trendy tapas spot called Bar Mut (rumor has it Robert DeNiro loved it so much when he dined here that he's in talks with the chef to bring one to NYC!)

In Madrid, my favorite hotel is the timeless, 100-year-old classic, Hotel Ritz Madrid. The staff and the service is impeccable, and while the traditional style may be anything but modern, there is an elegance about this Orient-Express-run property that can't be duplicated by newcomers. Located just steps away from the famous Prado Museum in the "Golden Triangle" of Madrid, the 137-room hotel oozes a sense of "royalty stays here". I loved how the waiters remembered my preference for gluten-free toast without having to ask each morning; I also loved lunching on the garden-filled outdoor terrace (shown above) before heading out to see the city's key sights (all a short walk from the hotel). There are few hotels in the world that rival Hotel Ritz Madrid when it comes to the level of service; it's what sets this grande dame apart from the competition. Note: When in Madrid, take the advice of Ritz Sales Director Fabio Ramirez and have dinner at Rincon de Esteban, just down the street. We did, and it was one of our favorite meals of the trip!

Last but not least, no trip to the cities of Spain would be nearly as much fun without a few days of R&R at The Marbella Club. An easy scenic drive(about 40 minutes) from Malaga, the Marbella Club is a relaxed residential-style Beach Club at its best. The landscaped-filled grounds are dotted with gorgeous garden-facing villas, rooms and suites and there are also a handful of newer suites and rooms closer to the beach with ocean views. A huge selling point of this Leading Hotel of the World is its steps-from-the-sea thalassotherapy spa, coupled with multiple swimming pools, delicious food (the daily poolside lunch buffet at the Beach Club is a must as is dinner at the casual MC Cafe. A stroll along the beach-fronting boardwalk towards Puerto Banus or Marbella is a perfect way to start a day here in Marbella, while meandering through nearby Old Town was my favorite way to end this memorable experience. My only mistake at the Marbella Club: Not spending more than two nights here as it's truly a spot to enjoy sheer relaxation in a stunning setting.

For more information or to plan an upcoming trip to Spain--and for more details on the extra special perks (breakfast inclusive rates, unique amenities + priority upgrades) you will enjoy when booking Mandarin Barcelona, Ritz Hotel Madrid and The Marbella Club through Elite Travel International--, contact us by email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or 310.979.9036.

Be treated like the STAR You Are....at Ritz-Carltons worldwide

2011-04-23T08:12:00.001-07:00

Earlier this week I co-hosted an amazing event for potential clients with our friends from Ritz-Carlton Hotels worldwide. During the event held at the Ritz-Carlton, Marina Del Rey, we had the chance to share with these clients all of the benefits of booking their Ritz-Carlton hotel stays through a Ritz-Carlton STARS-affiliated travel consultancy like Elite Travel International. As one of them said to me: "Why would I ever book a Ritz-Carlton directly now that I know breakfast and late check out are included everytime I book through you?" EXACTLY.

In addition to receiving complimentary breakfast for two, a customized welcome amenity, a personal VIP welcome, a priority upgrade and late check-out on request, many of the Ritz-Carlton hotels offer timely promotions EXCLUSIVE to their STARS partners. NOTE: These opportunities will not be found online or through the hotels directly.

Below are examples of the "above and beyond" special perks you'll enjoy when booking these particular Ritz-Carlton hotels through us:

The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey: Enjoy an upgrade to Club Level when booking an Executive Suite

The Ritz-Carlton, LA: Through April 27, book two nights and enjoy a complimentary third night

The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay (pictured): Complimentary overnight parking and confirmed upgrade valid through June 30, 2011.

The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun: Book Club Level accommodations & enjoy a $200 resort credit for food/beverage or spa treatments

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel: Book one Ambassadors of the Environment eco-adventure and the second is half-price.

The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman: Enjoy a one-category upgrade and a complimentary beach cabana on bookings now through June 27, 2011.

The Ritz-Carlton, Jamaica: Book a garden or ocean view room and be upgraded to a garden or ocean view suite respectively through December 23.

The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta: Complimentary upgrade to a City View Guest Room at time of booking. Based on availability at time of booking and valid from May 1 through August 31.

The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead: Complimentary upgrade to a Premier Guest Room at time of booking. Based on availability May through Aug 31.

The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas: Lady Lynsey sunset sail for 2 people valid through July 31st based on a 5-night booking.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua: Book Deluxe or a One-Bedroom Garden View Suite and receive an upgrade to Ocean View for travel August 15 – Dec 22, 2011. Bookings must be made by June 30, 2011.

To enjoy these exclusive offers and to hear about additional exclusive STARS promotions at Ritz-Carlton Hotels worldwide, contact your STARS-affiliated travel pro Stacy Smallat 310.979.9036 or stacy@elitetravelinternational.com

Monday Morning Picks: Luxe Deals of the Week

2011-04-11T08:36:00.000-07:00

Somehow last week flew by before we had a chance to post our Top 5 Luxury Travel Finds. But, there are plenty of options for you to consider...especially if you want to splurge on luxury travel this spring or summer! Here are this week's picks:

1) La Samanna, St. Martin: Book a five-night stay in a three- or four-bedroom villa at La Samanna on St. Martin and enjoy two complimentary nights. One-bedroom suites are currently priced at 30% off. Our rates at this Orient-Express Caribbean gem always include breakfast and extra VIP touches.

2) Last-minute getaway alert! If you're looking for a last-minute getaway and enjoy great food, golf/spa and sunshine, don't miss the Punta Mita Gourmet & Golf Classic at St. Regis Punta Mita coming up April 28-May 1. Rates from $1,180 per person include three nights' accommodations, breakfast daily, airport transfers, choice of two rounds of golf or two 90-minute massages, two lunches and three gourmet dinners prepared by top chefs.

3) Chicago Style: The best deal going at a luxury hotel in Chicago has to be our Virtuoso rates at Trump International Hotel Chicago. Choose from a spacious studio-style suite for under $400/night or the larger (1000-square-foot-plus)one-bedroom suite for under $500 this summer (rates vary by dates). Our rates always include breakfast for two, a $100 spa credit and upgrade if available.

4) Spa by the Beach: Canyon Ranch Hotel & Spa in Miami Beach makes it easy to pamper yourself in well-deserved spa treatments. Book a three-night stay and enjoy "hotel/spa credit" equal to the value of your third night. Or, stay during the week and enjoy a $250 spa credit, along with our Virtuoso perks of daily breakfast and an upgrade on arrival.

5) Hike or Bike in Ojai: The "Hike or Bike" package offered through end of April at Ojai Valley Inn & Spa starts at $365/night and includes a guided hike or bike tour, plus breakfast and lunch during your stay.

For more ideas or to book any of the above, contact us at 310 979 9036 or via email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com

Switzerland to Spain: Top 5 Luxe Europe Deals!

2011-04-01T22:57:00.000-07:00

With so many clients inquiring about spring & summer trips to Europe, what better time than now to share some of the best luxury European hotel offers hitting our inbox? Here are this week's picks for FIVE top luxury deals to keep in mind if Europe's on your to-do list:

1) The Dolder Grand, Zurich: This stunning Leading Hotel of the World offers several terrific options, including a two-night "Spring Taste" through May. The package includes two nights' accommodations, daily breakfast, a 60-min Kerstin Florian massage and a three-course dinner in the Garden Restaurant from $1820

2) Villa San Michele, Florence: This Orient-Express favorite offers a "Florence at Leisure" package priced from $2342 through November inclusive of two nights in a deluxe room, daily breakfast, one gourmet dinner for two at La Loggia Restaurant, one poolside lunch and two tickets to the Uffizi Gallery.

3) Palazzo Sasso, Ravello: Located in the charming cliffside town of Ravello on the Amalfi Coast, Palazzo Sasso offers our clients Virtuoso rates from $774 for a seaview room inclusive of breakfast, free Wifi, an upgrade if available and a bottle of Spumante on arrival.

4) Hotel Le Bristol, Paris: Stay three nights or more at this Parisian gem and our Virtuoso rates will include a complimentary limo transfer from the airport, in addition to an upgrade at time of booking, daily full breakfast and a VIP welcome!

5) Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona: This Spanish city's newest star (pictured) offers a complimentary 4th night to guests booking suites as part of its "Suite Temptations" package. Also available are family, romance and spa packages; Virtuoso clients booking best available room rates will always enjoy daily breakfast, an upgrade if available, plus a bottle of wine and a selection of tapas for two at the stylish Banker's Bar.

For more information or to book any of the above (or to inquire about more European luxury vacation options!), contact stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or phone 310.979.9036.

March Madness: Final Five Faves!

2011-03-25T09:57:00.000-07:00

While hoops fans everywhere are paying close attention to who will make it to the NCAA Final Four, we're paying close attention to which luxury travel companies are offering their version of March Madness deals. Here are Elite Travel Gal's Top FIVE picks of the week:

1) La Costa Resort and Spa: This newly renovated San Diego spa & golf resort offers a free 4th night through June 30, as well as a promo for shorter stays that includes a $50 nightly resort credit for F&B, spa or the kids' club.

2) Montage Beverly Hills: Why book a stay here through a Virtuoso agent? Because only we can get you the 3rd night free on stays through June 15. Our rates include daily continental bfast for two, a $100 spa credit, free wifi and an upgrade if available!

3) Soho Beach House: Now open on Miami Beach, the hip chic Soho Beach House (shown above) offers our clients special "members only" rates inclusive of daily continental breakfast, a 30-min spa treatment and champagne on arrival.

4) Covecastles Anguilla: Book 5 nights or more April 16-Aug 30 and enjoy 10% discount off nightly rate, daily breakfast, a two-day car rental and a half-day island tour with picnic lunch.

5) Four Seasons Marrakech: This gorgeous new resort in the center of the city is now taking reservations for stays from June 15. Our Preferred Partner rates will include daily breakfast for two, a $100 spa credit and priority upgrade status on arrival.

Of course, these are just a few of the fabulous luxury travel offerings that hit our desk this week. Contact us directly 310.979.9036 or stacy@elitetravelinternational.com for more information on top options worldwide or to book any of the above!

Friday Faves...Featuring London

2011-03-17T13:56:00.000-07:00

After a full week of meetings and hotel inspections here in London, it's only fitting that this week's edition of our Favorite Friday finds includes offers from a few new faves. Stay tuned, too, for upcoming posts about the new and newly renovated hotels now open (or opening soon) London-wide!

Here are ETG's picks of the week:

1) Think it's impossible to visit London during the Royal Wedding? Think again: Brand new (officially opening April 2) and ultra-luxe Corinthia London has rooms available from 450GDP/nt. Many rooms & suites feature London Eye views, the 294-room hotel houses the first ESPA Life Spa concept, a David Rockwell-designed restaurant and we love that rates here include WiFi and spa/gym access.

2) The Metropolitan London: This chic boutique Como Hotel across from Hyde Park offers an incredible 3rd night free deal on select weekends valid for arrivals on Thurs or Friday for stays of three nights. Rates are almost too good to be true (but once booked, are nonrefundable/non-changeable). If do you prefer more flexibility, book our breakfast inclusive rates from 229GDP/nt including breakfast for two, free WiFi and special VIP perks!

3) Four Seasons Park Lane: Officially open for business after a two-year-plus renovation, this Four Seasons clais better than ever. Service is unbelievably flawless and the new rooms and suites are stunning. Our Preferred Partner rates include daily breakfast for two, a $100 spa credit and free WiFi if you book a suite. The hotel's house car--a stylish new Rolls--will also gladly get you around town in style.

4) Parrot Cay: If warm weather, healthy cuisine and spa treatments in a gorgeous island setting is what what you are craving, check out the five-night Como Shambhala package from Parrot Cay. Rates start about $1350/nt in April but do vary by dates and include: breakfast, a healthy three-course lunch and dinner daily; round-trip airport transfers; complimentary yoga and Pilates classes; and six 60-minute spa treatments per room.

5) La Samanna, St. Martin: This classic beach resort by Orient-Express has a terrific "Suite Summer" promo in effect from May through Dec 21st. Book a one-bedroom suite for a minimum of five nights and enjoy breakfast-inclusive rates from $485.

To book or for more details on these and other luxury travel offerings worldwide, email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or call us 310.979.9036.

ETG's Luxury Travel Deals of the Week

2011-03-10T09:52:00.000-08:00

With so many amazing luxury travel options to choose from, we know it can be a challenge deciding where to go next. That's why every Friday we highlight our favorite FIVE Finds of the week. Here are this week's picks:

1) Rosewood San Miguel del Allende: Rosewood's newest property (sibling to Las Ventanas and Rosewood Mayakoba)in San Miguel del Allende Mexico offers a Grand Opening package through April 20. Rates from $295/night include breakfast, 25% off spa treatments and valet parking.

2) Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills is offering the use of a luxury car rental (Mercedes, Audi, Cadillac, Volvo or convertible Mini Cooper) to our clients who book a One-Bedroom Suite or above. Suite guests will also receive comped valet parking and use of a JAMBOX speaker to use in-room with their iPod, iPad, laptop. Our rates at Four Seasons LA include Preferred Partner perks: daily breakfast for two, $100 spa credit, priority upgrades and free WiFi for suite guests.

3) Bristol Buenaventura: This Leading Hotel of the World offers a great deal for families at Panama's only true five star beach resort. Book 2 rooms and receive 50% off on the 2nd room, 10% off on Spa Treatments, daily breakfast for the family, pay for 2 days Kids Club activities and get one day free plus kids under five eat free through Dec 18.

4) Hotel Le Toiny: Bring the baby to St. Barts with Le Toiny's new Babymoon Package. Includes daily full American breakfast; babysitter for three evenings/days; use of a convertible Mini Cooper equipped with baby seat; and for the parents, a three-course candlelight dinner; a couples massage; Champagne and flowers.

5) Hotel Cipriani: Our favorite Venetian hotel by Orient-Express offers a "Great Affordable" package inclusive of three nights in a lagoon-view room, daily breakfast, round-trip transfers, one poolside lunch and two meals at Cip's Club or the Fortuny Restaurant. Priced from 3800E through end of May, and again Jun 6-Nov 1. Ask us about special family packages and 3rd night free offers over select dates as well.

For more information or to book any of this week's luxury travel deals, email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or call 310.979.9036.

TOP 5 Luxe Travel Deals of the Week

2011-03-04T10:44:00.000-08:00

Many of you are often calling and emailing us for the inside scoop on the best luxury travel deals. With that in mind, we will be curating the hundreds of offers that hit our inbox each week and posting the EliteTravelGal's FAVE FIVE FINDS every Friday. Below are the offerings we love this week:

1) St. Regis Bora Bora: Book a premier overwater bungalow or above category for stays now through May 31 and our rates will include a FREE 4th night plus breakfast AND dinner daily. '

2) Cruise Europe aboard Windstar this spring/summer and receive $1000 in shipboard credit. Dates/itineraries vary.

3) Four Seasons Florence: Book a 3-night "Romance Package" and combined with our Preferred Partner rates you'll enjoy daily breakfast, a four-course dinner with wines, round-trip transfers, a $100 spa gift certificate plus a 75-minute couples' massage and a 222Euro voucher to spend at the local La Perla boutique in Florence!

4) Bike, eat & drink your way through Bordeaux or Provence this spring with our friends at Duvine Adventures and enjoy a $200 per person savings.

5) Viceroy Anguilla's Hot Nights Cool Rates offers one complimentary night for each night booked for stays June through November. We'll also get you breakfast included at this stunning beach resort (pictured above) as a special Virtuoso perk!

For more details or to book any of this week's FAVE 5 luxury travel deals, email me stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or call us at 310.979.9036.

Sweet San Francisco

2011-02-23T11:39:00.000-08:00

With all the frequent and often international travel I do, sometimes nothing makes me happier than a long, relaxing weekend in a cool city like San Francisco. Where better to spend a romantic Valentine's Day than in this fun city--less than an hour away by plane--filled with fabulous restaurants, gorgeous settings, fun touristy attractions and of course, great hotels?

Everytime I visit this city I like to try a different hotel and new neighborhood, but after my recent experience at The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco, I'm not sure I'll ever switch again. Perched high up on Nob Hill , the Ritz-Carlton bears an interesting resemblance to the White House and service is, as you might expect at such a stately classic, beyond top notch. The newly renovated Club Level rooms (pictured) are definitely the way to go; with fresh displays of homemade treats pretty much morning to night, this is the best Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge I've seen (ranking up there with my favorite at Hotel Arts in Barcelona).

I must admit, the all-day dining benefits of the Club Lounge were enjoyed in moderation as this trip was definitely centered around incredible meals! Favorites were enjoyed at restaurants including The Slanted Door (best Vietnamese food in the city, and possibly the States), Postrio (a timeless classic), Fleur de Lys (go for dessert if you can't get a coveted dinner rez) and Michael Mina (relocated in the original Acqua spot, just down the street from another favorite hotel, Mandarin Oriental San Francisco). Also loved lunching with friends at Murray Circle at Cavallo Point Hotel in Sausalito; I highly recommend this on a sunny day! And of coure, set aside time for leisurely dim sum at Hang Ah Tea Room; the decor is no-frills but it's one of Chinatown's best!

In between all the eating, our favorite activity was walking...up and down the hills, through North Beach, past Fisherman's Wharf, and of course over to Ghiradelli Square. I can't possibly go to San Francisco without a visit to my favorite chocolate shop. In fact, I'll definitely stop in again when we return to San Francisco in May for another special occasion and a few more amazing meals!

If you'd like to experience a luxurious trip to the City by the Bay, contact us for more information about our Virtuoso/STARS rates at the Ritz-Carlton which include breakfast, $100 food & beverage credit, free internet access, and priority upgrades. We also have terrific Preferred Partner benefits (daily breakfast, priority upgrade and a complimentary lunch) at the lovely Four Seasons San Francisco and special perks for our clients booked at the Mandarin-Oriental, the Fairmont, Campton Place among others.

Contact us for more details at 310.979.9036 or reach me via email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com.

Yoga By the Beach?

2011-01-31T11:21:00.001-08:00

Calling all yogis, golfers and spa lovers for a Memorial Day weekend filled with all of the above at the beautiful St. Regis Punta Mita (one of my personal favorite Mexican beach resorts!).

The first in an exclusive Wellness Series to be offered on property this year, the Memorial Day Yoga & Golf Weekend will include a mix of spa treatments, golf, and yoga session taught by Katherine Roberts--a fitness expert and regular contributor for The Golf Channel. She is also the official yoga instructor for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres!

Yoga & Golf takes place May 27-30 and includes three nights’ luxury accommodations; three rounds of golf on either of Jack Nicklaus’ two signature courses; daily pre- or post-game yoga sessions on the beach taught by Roberts; a 30-minute one-on-one private session with Roberts, who will analyze guest’s swing to help provide certain yoga techniques to improve flexibility and swing; a 90-minute Better Swing Golfer’s Massage at Remède Spa; and complimentary daily breakfast at Marietas Restaurant. Rates for the Yoga & Golf Package start at $1,450 per person for a three-night stay based on double occupancy.

For more details or to reserve your spot for this special weekend, email me at stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or call us at 310.979.9036. Hope to see you there!

EliteTravelGal's Top 10 Luxury Hotels of 2010

2010-12-31T17:07:00.000-08:00

As 2010 comes to a close, it's time to pay homage to 10 luxury hotels that completely blew me away this year. I criss-crossed the globe to preview new hotels, and also to revisit some properties that are new and improved after impressive redos. From Santorini to Sonoma, here's my "Top 10 of 2010" list:

As I'm here in Las Vegas for New Year's Eve, I'll start with props for The Cosmopolitan. In a town where more is more, this hotel exudes elegant style. The stunning Chandelier Bar; an entire floor of celeb chef-driven restaurants (Jaleo to Comme Ca to Scarpetta); a vintage-inspired, chic room decor; two gorgeous pools; and high-tech touches everywhere--coupled with staff that smiles like they mean it--makes this my new favorite hotel in Vegas.

The second US property from AmanResorts, Amangiri, makes my list for its sheer uniqueness and Zen-inspiring setting on the border of Utah & Arizona. Leave it to Aman to bring the best of Asian style to such an All-American setting (pictured). Yoga with a view was just one fun highlight of my stay.

I fell in love at first sight with The Surrey, located on Manhattan's Upper East Side, upon its reopening. Stylish design, spacious rooms & suites, a cool rooftop bar, terrific gym, and a staff that goes above and beyond to please make this my uptown favorite in the city that never sleeps.

My 2010 list also includes a downtown Manhattan fave: The Robert DeNiro-owned Greenwich Hotel. I felt like a special guest in this boutique, residential-style property that also houses the fab Locanda Verde restaurant. Cozy, clubby furnishings, huge rooms, free WiFi + free minibar, amazing baths, a Japanese spa and a living room-styled private bar are reasons I so enjoyed my weekend stay in TriBeCa.

Further afield, The Armani Hotel Dubai, wow'ed me with its uber-sleek design. How could it not, it's designed by Armani after all! I also loved its sister property, The Address Downtown. Warmly designed spacious rooms & suites with fountain views, beautiful restaurants & bars, ultra-friendly staff and an amazing Club Lounge make this hotel ideal for families to business travelers. The location steps away from the 1,200-store Dubai Mall is another selling point!

Santorini is one of those destinations I plan to revisit time and again. The Caldera area of Oia ranks up there with the most beautiful settings I've encountered in decades. The family-run Canaves Oia hotel--with a newly added second wing and a unique-to-Oia elevator--sits in a prime cliffside location to view the famous Santorini sunsets, while enjoying fabulous, authentic Greek cuisine before retiring to your beautifully furnished suite with a view.

On the list of hotels that get better with age, The Four Seasons Biltmore in Santa Barbara impresses from the minute you arrive. I love the junior suites with steam showers in the baths as well as the private, individually decorated cottages dotting the oceanfront property. The newly renovated Casino Club--open to members and hotel guests only--is a terrific addition for its oversized pool, beach access and alfresco restaurant. The setting, spa, and Sunday Brunch also impress.

One of the biggest surprises of the year came during my first visit to Sonoma, CA. The family-run, 18-suite Farmhouse Inn sits right in the heart of the Russian River Valley and is worth a visit for the incredible dining experience alone. But you'd miss out bigtime if you don't stay for a few days in one of the new Barnhouse Suites, complete with four-poster beds, fireplace, jetted tub-for-two, steam shower, upscale shabby chic furnishings, and the best concierge staff in the region who will get you VIP'ed at the best boutique wineries in the Valley. One of my favorite weekend getaways of the year, hands down.

Rounding out my list of new hotels I loved this year is Grand Hotel Via Veneto in Rome. My clients also loved this city-center property for its unique art deco-meets-modern style, personable staff (a huge positive in Rome!), and welcoming, comfortable ambience.

It goes without saying that all of the above hotels take amazing care of our clients, and of course that is the key reason we love them all. There are too many others to list that do the same, and we can't wait to see what 2011 brings!

Let us know if we can help you plan an amazing visit to any of our 2010 favorites...or recommend properties worldwide we know will best fit your business or leisure travel needs! Contact me anytime via email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com, find me on Twitter @elitetravelgal and be sure to like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/elitetravelinternational for insider tips on top hotels all year long. Happy New Year!

ILTM Round-Up: What's HOT in Luxury Travel

2010-12-17T04:18:00.000-08:00

Each year that I attend the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) in Cannes, I walk away with so much amazing insider info! Over three days I meet with dozens of general managers and execs from top luxury hotel companies, catch up with old friends and find out firsthand what's hot & happening in the luxury travel world. Here's a round-up of just SOME of what I learned this year:

Hayman Island in Australia has a new General Manager whose resume includes time at Cipriani in Venice. The private island also opens its eight new beach villas this month. Wolgan Valley Resort includes a 60-min massage for our Virtuoso clients and is one of the top Australian properties featured on the new site www.luxurylodgesofaustralia.com. I love this site, as it showcases the best luxury boutique properties in Oz.

When you arrive at the Upper House in Hong Kong, check-in is by iPad and there's an iTouch in every room loaded with music, games & room service menu. Cafe Gray here just got a Michelin star.Look for sister Swire Hotels to open in Shanghai & Vietnam.

Formerly a top concierge in Florence, Claudio Meli the GM of JK Place Firenze welcomes his guests without a formal check-in process (love this). Benefits of staying at this fashion-forward hotel include connections to the top designers and boutiques in town. Already on T&L's hot list, JK Place Firenze is expected to join sister Capri property on the Virtuoso preferred property list in 2011. JK Place Capri offers private access to the only sand beach in Capri. That, plus a 50 staff to 40 guest ratio, a fabulous GM, and NO charges for internet, breakfast or minibar put it top of my list (and of many celebs') of where to stay in Capri.

One of my favorite Greek island boutique hotels, Canaves Oia, appears likely to join the Virtuoso network in 2011. This Small Luxury Hotel sits on the most beautiful area of the Caldera in Oia, Santorini and has a setting to die for. The hotel's owner and general manager also told me to keep my eye out this year for the unveiling of SeaSky, Santorini's newest ultra-luxe hotel.

In Sydney, the Four Seasons Sydney JUST completed a major redo of its NYC loft-style Presidential Suite. And Park Hyatt Sydney closes for a complete redo April 1. Firm opening date for the completely redone Four Seasons London is now January 31. And, we're hearing June for Four Seasons Marakecch.

Last December, restaurant/catering genius Barton G. spent $2.5 million on the Versace Mansion & transformed it into the Villa by Barton G. The 10-room property in the heart of South Beach, Miami offers opulent suites, beach views, rooftop dining & fabulous Versace furnishings.

Sitting on 34 acres of olive trees just 25 minutes from Nice near St. Paul de Vence, Chateau St. Martin & Spa is currently adding a second restaurant and renovating its open-air gym and three-bedroom villa. The Michelin-starred chef hails from sister property LeBristol in Paris, there's a LaPrairie spa, and all suites feature seaviews and la Prairie amenities. Note to self: Perfect spot to enjoy the best of Cote d'Azur & Provence.

Rocco Forte will open its first Middle East property in Abu Dhabi mid-2011. It will feature a 6th-floor, Mosque-view Sky Bar, 281 rooms and a yoga studio.

Wimco, one of our favorite villa companies, now offers private homes for rent in Mexico, Hawaii and Nantucket. Their new concierge office in St. Barts can arrange for car rentals delivered to guests' villas and shared or private charter flights from San Juan (a nice alternative to St. Martin arrivals).

Six Senses newest Thai island property Soneva Kiri is being billed as "jungle meets beach". The 36-villa resort sits on Thailand's 4th largest island and is just a one-hour flight from Bangkok. All villas have private pools, bay views, and the smallest is huge at 4,000 square feet. Cool features: Tree-top dining with meals served by waiters on zip line (pictured above); a "Chocolate Bar" open 11am-11pm; and direct flights to Angkor Wat, ideal for day trips.

Opening next week is Six Senses newest resort, Con Dao in Vietnam (a 40-min flight from Ho Chi Min). Expect to see a "new generation" of Six Senses here according to execs, who tell us the two- to four-bedroom villas will be "a little sleeker" though still "rustic". Guests are given Vespas to drive around the island, and activities include trekking, diving, snorkeling, visiting local villages (2,000 Vietnamese live here) and enjoying the fab Bamboo spa. Sister property Six Senses Laamu opens April 2 in the southern Maldives (45 min from Male). Billed as bit "younger and larger", the resort will open with 100 villas, plenty of family-friendly sports & activities, a gastrodome/wine cellar and bi-level beach and overwater bungalows.

Look for Six Senses to open three Morocco properties in 2012, Bahia Beach, Brazil in 2013 and their first "non-remote" location in the Turks & Caicosin 2013.

Big news: Hotel Bel-Air will finally reopen July 15 after its $150 million renovation. Under the eye of GM Tim Lee, the "new" Hotel Bel-Air will offer 103 rooms and suites (including 12 completely new Canyon View accommodations), each with Bang & Olfsen TVs, contemporary design, heated limestone floors, a chic lobby with a fireplace, a "to be named" celebrity chef, larger bar areas, and a La Prairie Spa & first-class fitness center. Also making news: Two new bungalows at sister property Beverly Hills Hotel will open in February on the site of the hotel's former tennis courts. Look for the new units to offer 5,500 sq feet of indoor/outdoor space and a beautiful, contemporary decor.

Al Maha, an Arabian-style desert resort 45 minutes from Dubai Airport, is now part of Starwood's Luxury Collection as of Nov 1. The 42 "tented suites" each feature a private terrace/pool and new Starwood beds, and rates include all meals and choice of two activities/day (options range from horseback riding to camel trekking).

Owned by the Ferragamo family, Il Borro sits in the middle of a vineyard and offers 25 one- to four-bedroom apartments and three villas just an hour ddrive or 20-minute train ride from Florence (and 15 minutes from the Prada outlet). The newly renovated apartments (complete with separate kitchen/living room) start at just 300Euros/night, villas from 1000e/night. The stunning 10-bedroom main villa rents for 7000Euros/night. Activities include wine tasting, hot air balloons, biking, tennis, a spa/gym, indoor/outdoor pool. PERFECT for families and groups of friends wanting a true Tuscan experience.

Opened this past June, Royal Mansour brings a new level of luxury to Marakecch. Featuring 53 bi-level Riads, the smallest of which is 1,600 sq feet (the largest being 22,000 sq feet), the property took nearly four years to build on eight acres of city center land. Riads each feature private plunge pools on a sun deck, and a very traditional Moroccan decor. Other highlights of the new hotel include an indoor and an outdoor pool, a gorgeous spa, kids/teen centers, three restaurants (two of which are labeled "gastronomic"), and stunning private dining rooms. Rumor has it Royal Air Maroc may add flights next year from Los Angeles, Chicago and Miami.

In Barcelona, the fabled Ritz has been reincarnated as El Palace after a $30 million euro refurb. Walking distance to Las Ramblas, this Leading Hotel of the World has been updated top to bottom. Sister property Hotel Rey Juan Carlos offers a huge spa, gorgeous gardens and is ideal for families (second room available at 50% off).

The new Mandarin Oriental Barcelona, located in a former bank building, sits amongst 7,000 square feet of gardens and offers a rooftop terrace, a spa with indoor pool, 100% of its rooms with outside views, and a stunning penthouse.

Want to travel with like-minded women? Ask us about dedicated Tuscan wine, shopping, golf & other trips offered by our new friends at Macana. They've got great golf trips for the guys, too. Great group bike/wine trips for couples AND singles also offered in Europe and Napa Valley by Duvine Adventures. We love their motto: Eat, Drink, Bike, Sleep.

Want to know more about any of the above? Or hear about all of the other wonderful hotels & destinations we saw this year in Cannes? Drop me an email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or find me on twitter @EliteTravelGal. We also post hot tips regularly on Facebook at www.facebook.com/elitetravelinternational

What I am Thankful For...Travel-Related, Of Course

2010-11-24T07:34:00.000-08:00

With it being Thanksgiving week, it seems appropriate to list a few things I am thankful for as a frequent traveler. So here goes:

I am thankful for hotels like Four Seasons Maui (pictured)for never ever disappointing my clients. Everytime I book a client here, I get a thank you email telling me how incredible everything was. This hotel simply does everything right and thus, makes me look good in the process.

I am thankful to whoever invented in-flight WiFi. You guys at GoGo Inflight rock. The daytime cross-country flights I used to dread are now uber-productive thanks to you.

I am thankful for luxury properties like Peninsula Hotels, Luxe Sunset Boulevard, Gansevoort Hotels, Marquis Los Cabos, Canyon Ranch and The Greenwich that don't charge me extra to use the in-room WiFi. Charging for this remains my biggest luxury hotel pet peeve.

I am thankful to our NY-based partners at SmartFlyer and for our membership in the Virtuoso network which enables us to pass along incredible perks & special privileges to all of our clients worldwide.

I am thankful to all of the hotel General Managers I've met around the world over the years who consider my clients VIPs & treat them like old friends the minute they step in their door.

I am thankful to Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Rosewood Hotels & Orient Express for their Preferred Partners, Stars, Elite & Bellini Club programs. As a member of each, our clients enjoy ultra-VIP status when staying at any of their properties.

I am thankful to Mark Zuckerberg, @Ev & @Biz for inventing the Social Media networks that have changed how we do business. Both Facebook & Twitter are responsible for reconnecting me with so many old friends & connecting me to new friends & new clients all over the world.

I am thankful to the (handful of) airline gate agents who understand that there's nothing wrong with being nice to travelers. After all, these are the people who buy the tickets that keep the airlines in business and the reason they have a job.

I am of course, thankful to all of our amazing clients around the world who trust us with their all of their business & vacation travel plans

Lastly, I am thankful for my good health. Without this, I'd never be able to travel all over the world and share my experiences with all of our clients and with all of you.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of my fellow travelers worldwide! I look forward to helping you plan amazing trips in the days ahead. For more information, email me at elitetravelgal@gmail.com or follow me on Twitter @elitetravelgal. I'd also be thankful if you'd like us on Facebook
at www.Facebook.com/elitetravelinternational where we post lots of insider tips and luxury hotel deals.

Loving Los Cabos...Part One

2010-11-15T22:04:00.000-08:00

Everytime I fly down to Los Cabos--which isn't often enough given it's only a two-hour flight from Los Angeles--I quickly remember why I love this Mexican destination. The people are unbelievably friendly, the hotels are first class, the food is delicious and the sea-meets-mountain setting is simply stunning.

Accommodation options in Los Cabos run the gamut from small luxurious boutique hotels to larger full-service beachfront resorts, private villas and over-the-top residences (more on this later this week!). The newest addition to my list of favorite luxury hotels is Marquis Los Cabos, a 237-suite property steps from the Pacific Ocean. I especially love the 28 private casitas and the five Marquis suites, each with a private pool, patio or sundeck, spacious kitchen/dining area, huge baths with jacuzzi tub, intricate stone floors, handcrafted woodwork, original Mexican artwork and private butlers. There's no such thing as a "standard room" here; rather, rooms in the main building are laid out like junior suites, and each features terraces, ocean views and pull-out sofas (perfect for families).

Dining options include the oceanview Vista Ballenas and Canto Del Mar, a beautiful intimate restaurant serving Chef Thierry Dufour's six-course tasting menu that changes every three days. Al fresco dining by the three outoor infinity pools is of course, also an option. A holistic Spa Marquis, outdoor yoga classes, unique Mayan therapies, a spacious fully-equipped gym and complimentary WiFi are other things I am loving about Marquis Los Cabos.

Limited availability still exists for Christmas; it's an ideal spot for families, couples and groups of friends seeking a warm-weather holiday vacation option! Note: no minimum stay requirement is in place which we think is a very smart move by General Manager Ella Messerli.

For more details or to inquire about time-sensitive promotions special rates and exclusive perks, contact us via email at elitetravelgal@gmail.com.

Dubai: A City of Extremes

2010-10-19T09:06:00.000-07:00

I must admit, I was a bit skeptical about my first visit to Dubai. In fact, I wasn't gung ho on spending time in the Middle East, and I wasn't even sure I'd like anything at all about Dubai. But, after spending two days there, I am more intrigued than ever and can't wait to return to see and do more in the UAE!. Everything about Dubai--with the exception of the original "souks"--is shiny, sleek and new. The architecture of the skyscrapers lining the harbour, the new "downtown", and the beaches are unlike anything I've seen in my world travels. Each office, apartment and commercial building is taller and more stunning than the next, and the hotels are designed with unbelievable style and flair!

Boasting the world's tallest building (Burj Khalifa), the largest manmade island, the priciest hotel suite, and by far the biggest shopping mall, Dubai is definitely ALL about extremes. It's also a gorgeous example of a modern city filled with world-class hotels (including Armani's first and soon to be two in the city by Ritz-Carlton ), incredible restaurants, amazingly friendly people and overall, just a fantastic vibe.

Not to mention, the shopping is outrageous. When the mall steps from your hotel (The Address Downtown)has 1200+ shops, there's no other way to describe it. Not to mention, The Dubai Mall also has indoor ice skating, an underwater aquarium where you can swim with the sharks, a themed Sega adventure park and dozens of fabulous restaurants. It overlooks a dancing fountain that puts Bellagio in Vegas to shame. And of course, there's also the Mall of the Emirates if you prefer to indoor ski or shop at Harvey Nichol's while in town.

Highlights of my recent visit of course included a stay at the much-buzzed about Armani Hotel Dubai. This is THE place to stay in Dubai if you're moved by fashion, technology, service and ultra-sleek style. All of our Virtuoso clients booked at the Armani enjoy complimentary passes to the TOP of Burj Khalifa, the 160-story, 2700-foot-high skyscraper with the highest outdoor observation tower in the world.

I also absolutely LOVED The Address Downtown, just a few blocks away from the Armani. It's perfect for families as well as clients wanting a true luxury resort (the infinity pool is stunning) and business travelers desiring well-appointed spacious rooms and suites. The staff and service at The Address Downtown is up there with the best in the world, and sending us off to the airport in a Bentley was also a nice touch!

The only problem I had with Dubai was too little time to see and do it all. Shopping was certainly fun, but next time I'll be trying a desert safari, dune bashing, camel riding and maybe even sand boarding, as these activities are at your doorstep in Dubai. I'm also hearing a lot of great buzz about the new Banyan Tree Wadi Rum and I'd love a few days to totally chill by the Arabian Sea at Six Senses Zighby Bay in Oman. With nonstop flights on Emirates now available twice-daily from LAX, I'll definitely be planning a return visit to the UAE soon!

Want to know more or plan your own trip to Dubai? Contact us at 310.979.9036 or via email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com.

Memories of India: Part one

2010-10-06T11:50:00.000-07:00

It's been a week now since I returned from my whirlwind two-week trip to India--inclusive of visits to Delhi, Varnasi, Udaipur, Jaipur, Agra & Dehra Dun--and I'm still processing much of what I experienced on my first trip to this fascinating country. I'd heard so much about India but until you actually see for yourself the unbelievable colors, the cows in the streets, the extreme mix of wealth & poverty and meet the people who call India home, it's nearly impossible to understand what life is like in this part of the world.

India is a confusing destination to put into words, if only for the sheer organized chaos that greets you at every turn. Cars share the roads with mopeds, bicycles, pedestrians, cows, goats, dogs, elephants. Cities and towns are crowded with impromptu street festivals, traditional markets, street vendors blending with the locals trying to get from point A to point B. All of this aside, it is a beautiful destination and images of Udaipur (the lake city), Jaipur (the pink city) and the Taj Mahal are forever engrained in my memory bank.

There's simply too much to write about in one simple post...my experience in Delhi alone will comprise a separate future post. From the Oberoi Delhi to the Aman New Delhi (Aman's first city hotel!) to The Imperial and the Taj Mahal hotel, each property offers unique selling points...as does the city itself. And then there's Jaipur, Udaipur & Agra...elephant polo, shopping for handmade clothes and gems, visiting forts and castles, seemingly endless Indian feasts! More on all that to come soon.

My absolute favorite part of the trip was the weekend I spent at Ananda Resort and Spa in Dehra Dun. Located in the Himalayan mountains just outside mystical Rikishesh, Ananda is a former Maharaja residence-turned-ultimate health and wellness retreat. While here, you can immerse yourself in Indian/Ayurveda-focused spa treatments & cuisine, yoga, meditation, and life-changing Vedanta seminars...or you can enjoy chilling by the spa pool in your Kurta pajamas (given to each guest on arrival for use during the stay) while resident peacocks casually stroll by. Extra nice touch: Morning wake up calls take the form of knock on your door at a pre-arranged time accompanied with a steaming pot of fresh ginger lemon tea.

The centerpiece of Ananda is its 24,000 square-foot spa offering nearly 80 variations of body/mind/skin treatments with a blend of modalities incorporating Tibetan, Ayurvedic & Asian techniques. My personal favorites included a four-handed Abhyanga massage, a Reiki and crystal energy session, a rose and honey facial, and the signature Ananda fusion treatment. And of course, I loved the early morning yoga classes and the late-afternoon meditations in the Palace.

An incredible selection of Ayurvedic, Indian and international dishes is offered in the mountainview main dining room, and guests fully wanting the most out of the "wellness" experience can choose an entirely Ayurvedic menu (following a private session with the on-site Ayurvedic doc to determine whether you're a Pitta, Vata or Kapha personality & body type). According to Ayurveda everything is made out of the five elements of air, space, fire, water and earth, including our bodies. The three body types are a combination of these - Vata constitutes air and space - Pitta is made up of fire and water - and Kapha is water and earth. While at Ananda, your treatments and menus can be customized to best suit your body, soul and mind.

A weekend at Ananda was indeed the perfect antidote to the bustling pace and chaotic way of life we experienced elsewhere in India. Dehra Dun is an easy, hour-long flight from Delhi and is an incredible way to end a multi-city, fast-paced India experience. I only wish I'd had a few more days but know Andanda is a place I will definitely return to again.

Contact us for more details on planning a visit to India and Ananda Resort & Spa by phone at 310.979.9036 or email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com.

Canyon Ranch Tucson: My Happy Place

2010-09-16T11:15:00.000-07:00

We all have our Happy Places. You know, the type of place that makes you smile and take a deep breath the minute you arrive; the type of place that simply put, makes you happy. Topping my list is Canyon Ranch Tucson, one of the original "destination spa resorts" which I recently visited for the fourth time in six years.

Founded 30 years ago by Mel & Enid Zuckerman, Canyon Ranch has a loyal following who come to the desert spa for various reasons...some come to kickstart a health & fitness regime, others to relax get away from it all and some, like me, who need a blackberry break and a gentle reminder of how beneficial a few days in this environment can be. I liken it to summer camp for adults, only there's no one waking you up early (unless you want to be for the 6 am hikes) and your daily schedule & activity pace is in your hands. It's a well-deserved break and a perfect way to take a time-out from the craziness of everyday life.

Personally, I love the fact that I can choose from dozens of classes--everything from yoga to cardio to stretch to funky and fun dance options--all day long. I can feel the calories--and more notably the stress--melting away during my entire stay. It's such a luxury not just squeezing in one yoga class or work out per day, but having the opportunity to enjoy several each day in between delicious healthy meals, spa treatments, energy/spiritual sessions with renowned authors, top doctors and other amazing health & wellness professionals. An energy session or "Shamanic Journey with the Ranch's Director of Spiritual Programming and "Return to the Sacred" author Jonathan Ellerby is a must...it was a highlight of my stay.

Other highlights included the delicious gluten free mesquite-flour blueberry pancakes for breakfast; the evening seminars on integrative health & cancer prevention; lounging by the pool before a walk on the underwater treadmill; the fact that I was able to bring Mikey my maltipoo (love pet-friendly spa resorts!); and the new classes including "Desert Drumming" and one involving a lot of killer exercises to tone the lower half. A few weeks later and I'm already looking forward to my return visit next year!

Want to join me and experience Canyon Ranch for yourself? You can take advantage of our special Elite Travel group rates with a choice of arrival the last or second to last Sunday in August. Four- to seven-night stays are available, with all-inclusive four-night rates from about $2,000/person based on double occupancy (single rates just slightly more). Our special rates include all meals, accommodations, airport transfers, taxes/gratuities, classes/activities and a minimum $520 spa credit (will be higher for longer stays).

As an added incentive, reserve your spot before Dec. 31 and receive an added $50 spa credit as a gift from u to use during your stay. Contact us for more details at elitetravelgal@gmail.com or 310 979 9036. Space is limited, and of course, we also have rates for two- to three-bedroom casitas if you'd like to travel with family or friends! Hope to see you next August at my Happy Place, aka Canyon Ranch.

Luxury and Health Go Hand in Hand at Four Seasons Westlake Village

2010-08-10T10:30:00.000-07:00

How is it that a full month has gone by since I've found time to blog? I guess this is a good thing, as luxury travel is back and we're busier than ever. That said, I'm overdue for a post on the Four Seasons Westlake Village and the adjoining California Health and Longevity Institute (CHLI)as it's an incredible place...and just 40 minutes from my home in LA.

More than just another fabulous Four Seasons hotel with a terrific spa, this property takes it to the next level when it comes to the health/wellness options available. I confess: I really wasn't that interested in meeting with a fitness consultant at 8am on a Monday morning but after meeting Michael Brazeal, the Center's Director of Fitness, I quickly changed my tune. While I had enjoyed a very relaxing Sunday by the hotel's adults'-only spa pool followed by a "healthy" room service dinner in my spacious one-bedroom suite, my true appreciation for the hotel and CHLI came after tasting the latter's offerings the following day.

In less than an hour, Michael had me saying "I can do that" to his suggestion of adding one more day of cardio to my existing gym routine. Same to his suggestion of cutting 100 calories/day out of my total diet. He didn't tell me to do these things because I am horribly out of shape, but because I'd asked him during our consult how to best maintain my weight and rev up my metabolism as I inch up there in post-40 years. Michael's tips are now stuck in my brain forever and I've found myself making time for (and looking forward to) my now nearly-daily cardio work outs. I've also broken my green tea soy latte habit and cut down on luna bars as a way to easily reduce daily calorie count.

My morning at the Spa and at CHLI included the best facial I've ever had (an 80-minute anti-gravity facial) in a Zen-like spa setting followed by a session with the incredible Barbara Savin, an energy healer/hypnotherapist. I've had energy work done in the past, but never with the effect of my session with Barbara. I can't really explain how her work works...but I do highly recommend it to everyone as we can all benefit from the removal of energy blockages. My favorite part of the day was meeting with Siobhan Palmer, director of CHLI, who showed me around the facilities once I was worked out, spa-ed and energized. The Center has a full suite of top-notch doctors, dentists, radiologists and beyond, all who work together to prescribe a program that incorporates a "360 degree approach to health".

Many corporations contract CHLI to provide day-long comprehensive physicals for their execs, with the goal of reducing long-term health care costs. It's a genius concept. As is 87-year-old owner David Murdock locating CHLI on the grounds of the gorgeous 270-room Four Seasons Westlake (across from the headquarters of his Dole Foods Corporation)!

One night/day at Four Seasons Westlake/CHLI has had the same effect on me a weeklong visit to a destination spa resort did several years ago. I'll return for sure...on many occasions, to be pampered and energized as well as checked up by the on-site doctors (they even include mammograms in physicals for women over 40). Other fave features of the property include Onyx restaurant with sushi by Chef Masa AND a hands-on wellness kitchen for anyone who wants to boost their healthy cooking habits), as well as the stunning Oriental-inspired Zen garden (complete with a full-scale pagoda Murdock imported from Beijing). The pet-friendliness of the property is another plus.

Our Preferred Partner rates at Four Seasons Westlake include daily breakfast for two (if you go Saturday night this means Sunday brunch!) as well as an $85 lunch credit and an upgrade if available.
Contact us at 310.979.9036 or via email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com for more details or to set up your stay!

From Santa Barbara to Sonoma....via San Francisco

2010-06-29T13:39:00.000-07:00

How is it that I've traveled all over the world, yet had never experienced a self-drive trip up and down the stunning California coast until this weekend? All I can say is better late than never...and it's a trip I'll be doing many times again. Breaking up the drive from LA by booking stays at fab hotels in Santa Barbara, San Francisco & Sonoma County was the smartest idea I've had in a while...and I'm already planning my next visit in my head.

The perfect road trip started with a leisurely afternoon drive up Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) through Malibu to Santa Barbara. It took just 90 minutes or so to reach the beautiful Four Seasons Santa Barbara, where we checked into our spacious executive suite (fave touch: heated floors & steam shower!) and headed across the street to the Coral Casino Club (part of the $300 million recent renovation). Reserved for members and hotel guests only, the Club features the largest hotel pool in the US and an oceanview bar/restaurant (ideal for enjoying a pre-dinner snack of Skinny Margaritas and truffle-infused popcorn!) From here, we headed out to La Super Rica, the local taco stand made famous by fan Julia Child. The long lines are worth it as the authentic Mexican food is homemade, the beer is cold and the experience unique to Santa Barbara.

Day 2 of the "perfect road trip" consisted of a 5.5 hour drive up the 101 North straight into San Francisco. It's a scenic drive (especially if you've not seen this region before) as you pass through small, vineyard-lined roadways and towns including Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo & on up through Palo Alto. In a city filled with great hotels, the Four Seasons San Francisco stands out as an oasis from the constant buzz. Located on Market Street just steps from Union Square, the hotel's sophisticated decor (neutral tones, eye-catching artwork) and the five-star service are a welcome antidote to the hilly walks through must-see tourist-filled spots like Fisherman's Wharf and Ghiradelli Square.

Stroll down Geary Street in the evening for drinks and dinner at Clift Hotel, designed by Phillip Starke. Cocktails in the hotel's original Redwood Room (a former Prohibition-era hang out) followed by an amazing dinner at the brand new Velvet Room (occupying Asia de Cuba's former home) was the perfect way to spend our one evening in San Francisco. If one's prefence leans towards chic boutique style over sophisticated zen-like decor, Clift is the perfect spot to stay in SFO.

Next stop on the agenda was the one I'd most been looking forward to: 2 full days in Wine Country, specifically, Sonoma County. The scenic drive over the Golden Gate Bridge to The Farmhouse Inn in Forrestville took just over an hour and gave us a taste of what was to come. Vineyard after vineyard lines River Road leading to the 18-room, recently restored Farmhouse Inn, owned by brother and sister Catherine and Joe Bartolomei.

The brand new Barnhouse Suites (housed in an authentic barn that's been totally transformed) give new meaning to "barnhouse chic". Spaciously laid out with a separate living/bed room, the suites feature textured wood walls, high ceilings, comfy sofas and chairs, heated marble bath floors (perfect after a steam shower or soak in the jetted tub). I also adored the plushly appointed four-poster king bed, our own very private patio, and the indoor/outdoor fireplace. The staff (notably Anna and Tamera on the concierge team) went above and beyond to ensure we had an incredible stay--from booking a table for us at Healdsburg hot spot Spoda to pre-booking our couples' massage at the Inn's own lovely spa.

Unique and fun touches offered at the Inn include complimentary self-serve snacks , sodas, waters & even fixings for s'mores(ideal for winery outings & evenings in the suites. Boxed gourmet picnic lunches can be arranged for guests, as can priority reservations at Farmouse Restaurant, the dinner-only (Thurs-Sunday) on-site Michelin starred restaurant where I had one of the best meals of my life (soft shell crab with summer corn succotash followed by seared line-caught halibut and topped off with a Valrohna souffle & caramel toffee gelato).

Of course, what's a few days in Sonoma Wine Country without visits to area wineries? The Farmhouse Inn has preferred relationships with nearly a dozen of the area's best winemakers--this translates to VIP treatment and in some cases, comped tastings & additional pours upon mention of who referred us. A few of our favorites included J Vineyards, Copain & Lynmar Estate. The latter is the perfect spot to stop for lunch--we loved our freshly prepared gourmet picnic ($35/person including two tastings) overlooking the estate's gorgeous gardens surrounding the family-run vineyard.

While sad to leave the cushy confines of Farmhouse Inn (I could have used another day to simply laze by the pool!), it was indeed a special treat to drive home along breathtaking Highway 1, stopping for lunch seaside at Schooner's in scenic Monterey, and continuing south through Carmel (pictured), Big Sur, and on down through San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara before ultimately ending up back where we started, at home in LA.

I feel like there is still so much to see--like the famous fried artichoke stands in Castroville, the Hitching Post restaurant featured in "Sideways" near Solvang, the cute shops of Healdsburg, and of course, many more boutique wineries. Next time, I'll insist we also make time to enjoy a night or two in Carmel--it's too pretty a place to simply pass through.

For more information on the perfect California coastal trip, contact us at elitetravelgal@gmail.com or phone 310.979.9036. Also, feel free to friend me on Facebook (www.facebook.com/stacysmall) to see photos from my trip and followe me on twitter (www.twitter.com/elitetravelgal) for live tweets from upcoming adventures.

Food For Thought

2010-05-25T06:23:00.001-07:00

What do Four Seasons Los Angeles, Beverly Wilshire, the Fairmont Miramar, Malibu Beach Inn, Four Seasons Westlake , The London West Hollywood & the Peninsula Beverly Hills have in common? Other than being hotels in LA, each has an amazing restaurant--so good you might even forget you're dining in a hotel! Gone are the days when hotel dining was nothing more than a necessary evil as these properties offer up seriously great eats...in fact, the meals I've had at these hotels rival some of the best I've had anywhere in LA.

Take for example, the newly opened Culina at Four Seasons LA. Billed as "modern Italian cuisine", the chic spot is a far cry from the traditional Four Seasons "Restaurant" that formerly occupied this space. Think crudo bar (Italian-style sushi), homemade pastas, freshly grilled fish (the yellowtail with artichokes and olives is a personal fave), thin-crust pizzas and creative desserts served in a stylish & warm ambiance, indoors and out. Evening cocktails on the patio (pictured) by the fireplace are a lovely start or end to any meal prepared by the charming Chef Victor Casanova (and yes, that's his real name!).

Sister property Beverly Wilshire wins my award for best breakfast spot in LA. Not only does its BLVD restaurant pack in more powerful Angelenos than typically gather in one room, but outdoor tables with a Rodeo Drive view and amazing dishes like an exotic mushroom omelette, steel cut oatmeal brulee & fresh dairy-free smoothies of the day. (side note: For a gluten-free glutton like myself, I love the fact that they have homemade gluten-free bread!!). BLVD is the ultimate all-day dining spot and I'm not kidding when I say I'd be happy eating breakfast, lunch and dinner here. Added bonus: Full breakfast comes included in our Four Seasons Preferred Partner rates!

For special occasions, yet another Four Seasons takes the prize. I had one of the most memorable Thanksgiving meals last fall at Four Seasons Westlake, where a three-room buffet filled with Thanksgiving fare also included amazing sushi and seafood creations courtesy of Chef Masa Shimakawa. Chef Masa oversees the Japanese-inspired Onyx restaurant, where Asian BBQ Thursdays & "Sushi on the Rocks" Happy Hours are fun ways to try out unique hotel dining. Families also love the Sunday brunch at Hampton's with its special VIK (Very Important Kids') surfing-inspired display.

For dining with a view, Carbon Beach Club at the Malibu Beach Inn is the hands-down winner. Simple and fresh California-style cuisine--lunch & dinner faves include crab & avocado salad, a lobster club, veggie (or real) burger, Asian chicken salad & Ahi Tuna tartare--is best enjoyed at an oceanfront table as close to the beach as it gets in SoCal. It's one of the best true beachside dining options, and one that should be experienced more often buy both locals and guests. Beachside breakfast is also a great option, as are desserts (trust us, the rasberry cobbler is sinfully good).

A few additional lunchtime faves, which I've enjoyed on numerous occasions are FIG at the Fairmont Miramar , Boxtree Cafe at the London West Hollywood and Belvedere at The Peninsula Beverly Hills. Funny enough, the Peninsula's former chef is now at the helm of FIG, which offers the most fun & creative (not to mention delicious) dishes using nothing but the freshest farmer's market ingredients. Chef Ray Garcia's takes on gourmet grilled cheese, homemade (cream-free) tomato soup, grilled fish tacos & no-pasta veggie lasagna were hits at our table, while another diner told me the ultra-fun Sunday "kegs & eggs" brunch is his favorite weekend treat. The Belvedere's garden patio is not only discreet and peaceful, it's the perfect backdrop for indulging in creative comfort food (truffle mac & cheese, crispy fries, cobb salads, and my fave, grilled barramundi). Should you prefer something lighter, simply head upstairs to the Roof Garden where you can dine poolside on organic, healthy cuisine. Another great choice for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and weekend brunch is Gordon Ramsay's Boxtree Cafe. While he may not be in the kitchen, the unique menu is definitely Ramsay by design. Beautiful presentations and creative takes on California-inspired served in a light-filled bistro setting are reasons to remember Boxtree when the lunch locale choice is yours.

Book stays at any of the above hotels through Elite Travel International and we'll ensure you'll not only be VIP'ed during your stay, but you'll enjoy one of the best tables in the house! For more information, visit www.elitetravelinternational.com, email elitetravelgal@gmail.com or call 310.979.9036.

Mexico in Style

2010-04-28T17:54:00.000-07:00

Mexico’s always been top of my list of places to go when I totally need to chill, and want to do so in a luxury hotel on a gorgeous beach. A recent journey south gave me the chance to do so, as I checked into the newish (opened fall ‘o8) St. Regis Punta Mita for sheer R&R then headed to old town Puerto Vallarta, the region Richard Burton & Liz Taylor put on the map with their longtime love affair.

Pairing a few days in Puerto Vallarta (with its cute shops, hip nightspots, great restaurants and unique history & culture) with downtime at the beach in sleepy Punta Mita, to me, is the perfect combination. And while I’ll always have a soft spot for Four Seasons Punta Mita (it’s one of my all-time favorite family resorts with its multiple family pools, tons of connecting rooms and amazing kids’ club), the 120-room St. Regis Punta Mita stands out at the destination’s newest star.

Sitting on 22 acres between two Jack Nicklaus golf courses overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the stunning resort features 24-hour butler service, a 10,000 square-foot Remede spa and three infinity pools--including one for adults only. Rooms are housed in traditional Mexican casitas, and offer a minimum of 600 square feet, while outdoor showers, huge bathrooms, ocean-view patios and a chic Mexican-meets-Mediterranean décor all add to the overall appeal. Beautifully designed, residential-style beachfront suites range up to 3,100 square feet and have up to three bedrooms, private pools and plenty of space for oceanfront entertaining. Mexican breakfast at Las Marietas is a delightful way to start the day, while the best way to wind down is over cocktails and a delicious meal in Carolina (named for Caroline Astor, founder of The St. Regis New York).

Side note: While in Punta Mita, be sure to check out the nearby surftown of Sayulita. Save room for homemade smoothies at one of the funky cafes (my faves are Rollies and Choco-Banana) and bring pesos to shop for handmade silver jewelry.

Only an hour away by car but within a totally different world, sits Puerto Vallarta, home to one of my favorite hotels, Hacienda San Angel. This charming gem of a property sits on the site of the original “Villa Bursus”, a gift from Burton to his then wife Susan (thus the name Bur-Sus). Over the years, owner Janice Chatterton has expanded this Small Luxury Hotels property to comprise five gorgeous Mexican villas featuring 14 unique, antique-filled suites. There’s an amazing gourmet Mexican restaurant with Bay of Banderas views and three heated pools on property. Plus, all rates include a fabulous (and free) in-room breakfast delivered by one of the ultra-friendly staff who treats you like an old friend (and you will be by the time you leave!). You’ll especially love this cliff side hotel three blocks from the Malecon if you’re a dog lover like me, as Chatterton is a major supporter of the local ASPCA. Her adorable rescue pups even serve as the hacienda’s official welcome committee.

Not topping everyone’s list, but also very worth a visit, is the country’s capital of Mexico City. Just a quick flight from Vallarta, this city of 22 million-plus is captivating to say the least. The Saturday afternoon bazaar in San Angel, a visit to the Diego Rivera/Frida Kahlo house, an afternoon at the rodeo and visits to the fabulous Archaeological Museum and the Franz Mayer museum are all must do’s if you’ve got the time. And if business brings you this way, you’ll love the centrally-located St. Regis Mexico City, which just opened six months ago. Sleek and chic, with spacious butler-serviced, high-tech rooms, and an eager to please staff, the hotel offers a warm, welcome respite from the bustling city. Also brand new and fabulous is Las Alcobas, an ultra-swanky boutique hotel located in the hip and happening district of Polanco.

Book any of the above through Elite Travel International and you’ll enjoy exclusive perks, priority upgrades, breakfast-inclusive rates and special VIP treatment during your stay. For more information, email elitetravelgal@gmail.com or phone 310.979.9036

Amangiri Puts Page on the Map

2010-04-10T08:47:00.000-07:00

Leave it to Aman Resorts to put a small town like Page, Arizona on the map. Seriously, unless you like house-boating with throngs of tourists on Lake Powell, there’s little chance you’d choose Page as your destination of choice. That is, until now, with the recent opening of Amangiri.

Just over the Utah border, 20 minutes from Page, Amangiri opened last fall as Aman’s second stateside venture. The secluded 34-suite resort sits on 600 acres of wilderness 4,000 feet above sea level in a canyon setting ideal for hiking, exploring and of course, in true Aman style, chilling out and spa-ing. Highlights of a recent stay included yoga classes in a glass-walled pavilion, Thai massage in an outdoor treatment cabana, and dining poolside—all with phenomenal views of the mesas and canyons that date back millions of years.

An open kitchen and residential-style lounge/living room lend themselves to lots of mingling among guests. Sounds silly, but it’s that kind of place regardless of whether you’re a Wall Street banker or a California yogi. The staff, many whom grew up in the area--including the nearby Navajo Reservation--add an air of authenticity not often found at remote resorts.

Each of the 34 suites feature a private courtyard with outdoor furnishings, a sleek, Zen-inspired bedroom/living room area with lots of natural light and views of the mesas and surrounding desert—best seen from the suite’s private patio appointed with its own fire pit. Sage green tiles line the suite-long bathroom/dressing area, and the twin rain showers plus soaking tub add to the overall design appeal. White stone floors and concrete walls compliment the natural landscape while colored cushions and cozy soft throws add a dash of warmth to the suites. Larger suites feature such added touches as private pools, outdoor day beds, larger dining areas and even outdoor sky lounges, ideal for stargazing.

During your stay, venture off property to enjoy a day trip to Bryce Canyon (two hours away), and/or the Grand Canyon and the funky town of Flagstaff. For sure, also stop by Horseshoe Bend as it’s one of the most scenic parts of the country —equivalent in level of striking beauty to the Hoover Dam. Guests have complimentary access to house BMWs (they’re available first come, first served on a reservation basis) so once you have your bearings, enjoy the scenery in style.

Based on a recent experience, we recommend flying into Page privately, so as to avoid the somewhat inconsistent turboprops operated by Great Lakes Aviation out of Denver and Phoenix. Other options are to fly into Phoenix or Vegas, and book a private transfer for the scenic four-hour drive in one of Amangiri’s luxury SUVs.

Book your stay at Amangiri through a Virtuoso agency like Elite Travel International and rates will include complimentary daily breakfast (the selection of teas and fresh-squeezed juices is outstanding, as is the morning buffet with bowls of fresh cut berries, housemade granola, smoked salmon, homemade pastries plus cooked to order eggs) plus a complimentary lunch for two and a priority upgrade upon availability.

For more information, email elitetravelgal@gmail.com or call 310.979.9036.

Four Seasons: Preferred Partner Perks...

2010-04-07T21:23:00.000-07:00

Whoever said there’s no such thing as a free lunch simply hasn’t yet met a Four Seasons Preferred Partner. Not that any of us NEED a free lunch, but why refuse it (especially at top restaurants in some of our favorite hotels worldwide!?). Simply book your next Four Seasons stay through a Preferred Partner (like Elite Travel International) and enjoy a complimentary lunch at the hotel OR a $100 spa or golf credit (note: perk varies per property). The Four Seasons in San Francisco, Miami & Palm Beach, for example, offer the free lunch, while the Four Seasons Los Angeles and the Beverly Wilshire extend the spa credit. Regardless which Four Seasons you book, your exclusive Preferred Partner rates will always include daily breakfast for two plus an upgraded room or suite if available. Late check out, early check in and other special requests are always prioritized for Preferred Partner clients, while suite guests also enjoy free internet access.

Speaking of free, Preferred Partners are first to hear about which Four Seasons offer comp nights to priority clients. Costa Rica, Hawaii, Bora Bora, Thailand & Punta Mita, Mexico currently have fifth-night free promos in place, while Bali, Los Angeles, Palm Beach, Jackson Hole, Buenos Aires offer a free fourth night (date dependent). And why stay only two nights in your city of choice when the third is free? This special promo exists in NYC (this summer), Chicago, Boston, Vegas, Scottsdale, Seattle, Santa Barbara, Austin, and San Francisco. Promos do vary based on the dates of stay in each city.

Keep in mind too, that a number of the Four Seasons—including those in San Francisco & Los Angeles—are fresh from major facelifts inclusive of all guest rooms and luxury suites (up to the Presidential level). The newly redesigned 17th floor Presidential Suite at the Four Seasons San Francisco is highlighted by a custom-made Brunschwig & Fils sofa; lounge chairs from William Switzer’s Lucien Rollin collection; Barbara Barry’s “high back shelter” chairs by Baker; a Berman Rosetti coffee table; handwoven custom rugs; and a 50-inch flat screen TV.

The Four Seasons Los Angeles—which was sorely in need of a room redo for years—recently got all that and more when $33 million-plus was spent on a full-blown renovation that included all rooms/suites, the outdoor pool (love the new cabanas!), the ballroom and main restaurant. The duo of new Presidential Suites (east and west) offer a choice between elegant, romantic glamour (think crystals, blacks, mirrors, creams, plum, hand tufted carpet)and modern design (clean lines, contemporary furnishings, bold artwork and a palette of rich browns, blues, smoky grays and cream). And, complimenting the Doheny Drive Grande Dame’s new look is a refreshing restaurant concept, Culina. Its chic, indoor/outdoor décor (complete with smoking area loved by cigar aficionados, a waterfall and a fire pit), and modern Italian cuisine is reason alone to stop by when in LA.

It would be silly to miss out on the benefits extended exclusively to Four Seasons Preferred Partners worldwide. For more information, email elitetravelgal@gmail.com or visit www.elitetravelinternational.com.

Trust in Travel

2010-04-02T19:18:00.000-07:00

Here in LA-LA Land, the only award most people care about winning is an Oscar or Emmy. But for me, taking home the title of "Most Trusted Online Travel Authority" is truly an honor. Not only am I flattered to know that more people trust me than a number of top national travel journalists, bloggers, analysts & travel industry CEOs, but it proves the point I've been preaching for years: There's nothing like a knowledgeable, professional travel consultant to help consumers navigate the cluttered world of travel--be it online or offline.

The poll, conducted by Robert K. Cole on his "Views from a Corner Suite" blog (www.rockcheetah.com) asked consumers to partake in a "Trustularity" contest by voting for their most trusted source of online travel info. Says Cole: "Travel is an intensely personal decision. So is the question, 'who do you trust?' That is exactly why I asked the question. There is no simple answer."

Cole, a longtime hotel/marketing executive (http://bit.ly/bXPaPU), adds: "This one of the key questions facing travel organizations engaged in media, both social and traditional -Who do people trust, and why do they trust them? Is a well produced ad, someone with the most followers, an expert travel agent, a literate journalist, or a dedicated friend most worthy of a person's trust?"

To my surprise, despite the serious competition from industry heavyweights (whose analysis, articles & blogs are at the top of my own reading list), I topped the poll with 19 percent of the total vote! Not surprisingly, right on my heels with 17 percent of the vote was Forrester Research's Henry Harteveldt and close behind Henry with 14 percent was Randy Petersen, the well-known founder of FlyerTalk & Inside Flyer.

What this poll really proves however--more so than that myself, Henry & Randy top consumers' "trustularity" list--is that actual "online travel agencies (OTA's) are at the bottom of the barrel when it comes to trust!! Combined, the CEOs of Travelocity, Expedia, Priceline and TripAdvisor captured less than 5 percent of the total vote.

So, am I the person you should trust most with your travel decisions? That is entirely up to you and I wholeheartedly agree with Robert Cole who says: "Popularity should not dictate who should be trusted. Trust should always be earned."

If you'd like to give me a chance to earn your trust, please follow me on twitter @elitetravelgal or friend me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/stacysmall.

It's no Oscar, but in my world where trust is everything, this award is the equivalent. Thank you to all of you who did vote me your "Most Trusted Online Travel Authority."

New York Stories...

2010-03-20T12:09:00.000-07:00

I have a love/hate relationship with New York City. I hated living there (too crowded, too loud, too cold, too much for me) but I love visiting. I love the luxury hotels in Manhattan as well as the amazing restaurants--not to mention, some of my favorite people in the world live there. I love that there are so many different neighborhoods to explore, and so many options for a luxury hotel junkie like me to check out.

On this particular trip, I chose to stay for two nights at three very different hotels. Keeping in mind that we have clients with a wide variety of style, budget & neighborhood preference, I started my week uptown at the newly redone Surrey Hotel before heading down to the Meatpacking district (which didn't exist as a tourist zone when I lived in NYC. There I spent two nights at the members-only Soho House (which many don't know is also a hotel!) then crossed the street for a stay at the equally cool Gansevoort Hotel.

Loved The Surrey for its elegant uptown charm. The vintage-inspired, grey and white (with touches of black( decor is a refreshing change from your typical five-star hotel, and the unique furnishings, intimate ambience, and Duxiana beds makes it a winner in my book. The proximity to Central Park and Madison Avenue shopping are other selling points, as is the room service by Daniel Boulud.

Just as I was falling in love with The Surrey, it was time to head to the opposite end of the city for my SoHo House stay. Gotta tell you, I liked it equally as much--for totally different reasons. The personality of the small property rivals the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse Lounge (which I love). Cowshed spa products and the dresser drawer filled with "minibar" items ranging from guidebooks to accessories to stationary offer much more than your typical bathroom experience + drink/snack set up. Platform beds, a red tub & quirky furnishings add to the fun ambience. Best part about staying here though, is the entree to the hip, members-only Bar/Lounge/Club, where free WiFi is a given and the atmosphere is perfect for everything from breakfast meetings to late-night cocktails.

For those who want to experience the happening Meatpacking district location but prefer a slightly different style of hotel than SoHo House can't go wrong at The Gansevoort. It's steps awway from Pastis (my fave bfast & late night dinner spot), has its own Exhale Spa (with yoga classes) on site, as well as a rooftop pool & one of the most popular night spots (Plunge) in town. Not to mention, I loved my Grand Deluxe room (pictured) with its oversized corner window nook that was a great spot to people watch & check out who's wearing what (as in, do I need an umbrella and/or rain boots). Overall, the chic decor is cool without being cold. The staff was super friendly and the location truly ideal for a "new to downtown" type like me, as the shops of 14th streets, the food & flower-filled Chelsea Market and area restaurants like Spice Market, Fig & Olive & The Standard Grill were all within a two minute walk.

For more information or to book your next NYC trip, contact us at 310.979.9036 or via email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com.

A few of my FAVORITE spots...

2010-03-05T09:11:00.000-08:00

What do Fiji, Bali, Mexico and St. Barts have in common apart from being a beautiful destination? Each is home to some of the most romantic luxury hotels & resorts we’ve uncovered in our worldwide travels! From private islands in Fiji to chic hotels in Cabo, here’s a look at some of our favorite spots on earth:

For the ultimate in luxury, romance, privacy and pampering, Laucala Island, Fiji is choice number one. A total of 25 villas, each hidden from the next, offers up the perfect hideaway for honeymooners seeking serious R&R in a setting that blends peacefulness with playfulness (think outdoor baths, huge wooden circular tubs, brightly colored rugs, handcrafted wood furnishings from Thailand, Fiji, Bali and beyond, as well as iPod docks, satellite TVs, fully-stocked bars & outdoor pools with separate living/dining space). Couples need never leave their villa if they desire; the 350-person staff is at your beck and call to deliver breakfast, lunch and dinner. Though, it’s highly recommended to check out the Beach Bar, Seagrass Asian restaurant, The Plantation House, not to mention the incredible spa (all have ocean views). And what’s more romantic than horseback riding on a private beach? Did we mention you can also get married on Laucala? There’s a wedding chapel on site and all paperwork/ceremonies can be completed within four days. It’s the perfect spot for a total destination wedding takeover, or a honeymoon a deux. Managers Thomas and Maja Kilgore will ensure you feel like part of the Laucala family from the minute you arrive.

Another favorite property that oozes romance is Las Ventanas, in Los Cabos, Mexico. The chic setting (think lots of white against a backdrop of sparkling blue) coupled with stylishly designed, oceanview suites and an uber-friendly staff anxious to please and the recipe for romance is delivered without a glitch. There’s even a “Romance Director” on site who can pre-arrange special activities, private beachfront dinners, or even entire weddings.

Bali is another beautiful destination where romance is in the air, at modern beach resorts like Amankila to the more traditionally designed, Ubud-based hotels like Amandari. A perfect getaway might combine stays at the two Aman properties, both totally different yet equally special in their own right. While at Amankila, wake up to views of the stunningly blue Indian Ocean and enjoy a private beach club with boating and other watersports at your disposal. In contrast, Amandari in the heart of Ubud offers an authentic taste of traditional Balinese village life in a charming setting that’s lush, green and within close proximity to temples, amazing hikes, local shops and restaurants. The female general managers of both properties go out of their way to ensure honeymooners receive extra-special treatment, and in these two unique settings, it’s not difficult to keep the romance alive.

Last but not least, one of my all time faves in the Caribbean is Le Toiny in St. Barts. The property features just 15 private oceanview suites, each decked out with private pools, gorgeous furnishings, stunning views and access to the best restaurant on island (it’s here at the hotel). This is the kind of place you choose when peace and quiet top the list of priorities, as do top notch service, incredible cuisine, and proximity to the rest of a beautiful, beach-filled island.

For more information on booking getaways, honeymoons or weddings at any of the above resorts, contact Elite Travel International at 310 979 9036 or via email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com. All clients of Elite Travel International receive the best possible rates as well as many exclusive VIP perks and value added amenities at each of these properties.

NAME THAT SUITE!

2010-02-22T00:12:00.000-08:00

It's not often I get asked to help a hotel name its new suite, but I have been...and the only way I can do so is with your HELP! I've been asked by Hacienda Tres Rios, a luxury all-inclusive property in Riviera Maya, Mexico to participate in its "Name That Suite" contest.

I've been selected, along with five other Twitter travel specialists, to represent & promote one of the six possible suite names. The name I need you to vote for is "Centario" which loosely translates to "Centennial". My translation: This is the perfect name for the hotel's newest suite...it is extremely unique since a centennial only comes along once every 100 years!

The premise is simple: Starting at noon (CST) on Monday, simply go to the Facebook fan page of Hacienda Tres Rios and look for the "Name That Suite" contest tab. Click the "LIKE" icon under my name & photo. Every vote counts!!! The winner is the one whose suite gets the most votes (in the form of Facebook "Likes") and if I win, not only will the beautiful suite be named CENTARIO but I'll also win a 3-night, air-inclusive stay at Hacienda Tres Rios!

The contest officially begins today (Monday, February 22nd) at noon (CST)and ends March 1st. Please vote for Centario & help me win the Twitter travel prize! The competition's tough and I really need your vote (please tell your friends too!!).

Click here to link to the Facebook Fan page of Hacienda Tres Rios where you can vote for my suite, Centario. Thank you in advance for your support and your vote!! I love that Hacienda Tres Rios is using such a creative form of Social Media to name its newest suite...please spread the word and help me win the contest!

2010-02-08T11:09:00.000-08:00

With the new year comes some exciting news! While some of you may have already heard about our exciting new alliance with NY-based SmartFlyer, here's the official scoop:

Elite Travel International Teams with Smart Flyer in
Bi-Coastal Alliance
2010 brings a new alliance for luxury travel entrepreneurs on opposite coasts

Los Angeles-based Elite Travel International has teamed up with New York-based SmartFlyer to form an east coast/west coast alliance of their luxury travel businesses. Elite Travel International is now operating as the West Coast affiliate of SmartFlyer’s 10-person Manhattan agency (whose Virtuoso membership became official on Jan. 8th, 2010).

The alliance will allow both firms to combine their strengths, from airline contracts and negotiated hotel rates to marketing prowess and high-level contacts worldwide. Together, they will operate as a one-stop shop for high-end business and leisure travelers worldwide.

In addition to worldwide Virtuoso benefits, clients of both firms will enjoy additional perks & amenities granted exclusively to members of Orient Express’ Bellini Club, Ritz-Carlton STARS and Rosewood Elite.

SmartFlyer, in business for 19 years, is run by Michael Holtz (recently referred to by the NY Post as a ‘travel mogul’). Elite Travel International was launched five years ago by Stacy Small, an award-winning travel journalist and the founding editor of Elite Traveler Magazine. The two entrepreneurs have nearly 40 years of combined experience in various aspects of the luxury travel industry and their combined network of high-level travel industry contacts covers the globe.

Both Holtz and Small travel frequently to review and preview the chicest and hottest luxury properties worldwide. Holtz has recently been to Bhutan, India, Peru and China, while Small’s passport has recent stamps from Australia, Peru, Morocco, Bali & Fiji. The two boast a strong presence in the social media world, as well as a following of high-end clients that range from high-tech execs to CEOs, entertainment executives, celebrities and affluent families worldwide.

The two entrepreneurs are frequently quoted in the press as experts on luxury travel trends and share a similar business philosophy of catering to a new generation of luxury travelers -- those who demand service, value and easy accessibility anytime of day by cell phone, text, Twitter, Facebook or BBM.

Small and Holtz can be found on Twitter at @elitetravelgal and @mrsmartflyer , respectively, or reached via email at stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or michael@smartflyer.com.

Love is in the Air: Hotel Vday Packages

2010-01-29T09:29:00.000-08:00

There’s something about luxury hotels that brings out the romantic in all of us. So, with Valentine’s Day just weeks away, now’s the perfect time to book a romantic trip to a fabulous spot from Mexico to Manhattan. Here are a few ideas:

Hacienda San Angel, an intimate boutique hotel overlooking Banderas Bay in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico offers a 2-night “Heavenly Escape” including a couples’ massage, sparkling wine, evening margaritas, breakfast in bed & airport transfers for $845 per couple.

Twin Farms, (pictured), a stunning restored farmhouse-turned-luxe-resort in Vermont features a three-night Valentine’s weekend package including all gourmet meals, drinks, hand-dipped chocolates, a bottle of Dom Perignon & a couples’ massage. All-inclusive price of $7,400 per couple includes accommodations in a cozy, plush Farmhouse room.

Plaza Athenee in the heart of NYC, pulls out all stops on Valentine’s Day with the booking of a deluxe balcony suite ($1,795/night). The one-night package includes a romantic dinner for two on private glass-enclosed terrace, a La Perla gift bag, V-day breakfast in bed, rose petal turndown, Champagne, roses, chocolate dipped strawberries & other special treats.

Dunton Hot Springs, tucked away in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, features a three-night Valentine’s Day getaway inclusive of three daily gourmet meals, a spa treatment of your choice, Champagne, flowers, chocolate-covered strawberries, and accommodations in a luxury cabin surrounded by Dunton’s mineral hot springs. Priced at $2,140 per couple, the weekend package also includes activities from snowshoeing to ice skating to cross-country skiing.

Cabo Azul, an all-villa luxury hotel in Los Cabos, Mexico, features a five-night Romance Package for $1,759, inclusive of accommodations in a stunning 1,200 square-foot villa, a couples’ massage, chocolate strawberries, sparkling wine, and a romantic dinner for two.

For the ultimate in romance, Paris is the place to be! We love the chic blend of classic style with modern design at Le Meurice, and the hotel’s “Pretty in Pink” package is made for Valentine’s Day. Priced from 580 euros/night, the package is filled with fanciful gifts like a bouquet of roses, pink petit fours, rose Champagne on arrival and upgraded accommodations.

To book any of the above, or for additional ideas on luxury hotels offering romance-inspiring packages, contact Elite Travel International at 310.979.9036 or via email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com.

LUXURY HOTELS WE LOVE FOR 2010

2010-01-16T16:28:00.000-08:00

As we criss-crossed the globe in 2009, my colleagues & I checked into luxury hotels we loved from Mexico to Peru, Italy to England, Bali to China & beyond. There are way more than 10 that we recommend, but we'll start with a Top 10 list of Where To Stay in 2010:

1) SONEVA GILI, THE MALDIVES: In addition to being visually spectacular & one of swankiest over-water-style island resorts in the world, the 45-villa, private-island property prides itself on having a staff that fully understand over-the-top. Just ask my client who proposed to his girlfriend here, in a seaplane circling a private beach where "Will You Marry Me?" was spelled out in coconut shells. Awesome spot for a honeymoon or any sort of romantic getaway.

2) AMAN AT SUMMER PALACE, CHINA: A must visit for anyone wanting the best of Beijing but in a setting different than a city business hotel. A peaceful retreat on the outskirts of the city, Aman at Summer Palace is a series of historic historic dwellings--some 100-years-plus--sitting next to the East Gate of Summer Palace. An incredible spa and a design inspired by the Ming Dynasty era are other reasons to stay here when Beijing bound.

3) Four Seasons Hampshire: This country-style estate just 30 minutes from Heathrow Airport has been on my "to visit" list for years. The style is pure traditional English countryside, while the service, food, setting and spa are five-star modern all the way. The presidential suite is a study in style with a blend of high-tech touches and classic yet ultra-tasteful furnishings. The just-outside-London property is truly the perfect spot for an authentic taste of English hospitality (and of course, be sure to book time at the Spa).

4) LAS CASITAS DEL COLCA, PERU: To say this is a special place is an over-exaggerated understatement. Located in Southern Peru, the stunning Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world (yet it sits high above sea level in the Andes). On a river bank in the Canyon, the 20-casita Orient-Express resort property offers a serious glimpse into true Andean life--from the farm-fresh cuisine to the unique culture. Combining this property with a visit to Hotel Monasterio in Cuzco and Hotel Miraflores in Lima is definitely the way to go. There's just nothing quite like waking up in the Colca Canyon to find baby alpaca strolling outside your private Peruvian casita.

5) AMANKILA, BALI: One of my all-time favorite beachside resorts in the world, I've been hard-pressed to find a prettier spot throughout my travels. Cliffside suites, three infinity swimming pools overlooking the Indian Ocean and the private Beach Club stand out as memorable features of an ultra-romantic property that's a must-visit in combination with Amandari in Ubud & Amanjiwo (just a short flight away in Java minutes from Borobudur, the world's largest Buddhist temple).

6) THE SURREY, NYC: Opened just since last fall, the new version of this newly redone classic Upper Eastside hotel is winning raves for its no-expense-spared style and accoutrements including Duxiana mattresses, Sferra bedding and Pratesi robes. The hotel's 190 salons and suites & white marble baths are luxe to say the least, and room service catered by Cafe Boulud is certainly a nice touch.

7) MAROMA RESORT & SPA, MEXICO: Located in a quiet corner of the Yucatan jungle on the Riviera Maya, Maroma Resort is just 45 minutes from Cancun. The traditional Mayan, residential-style property boasts one of best beaches in the region, and sits on a 25-acre jungle preserve where privacy is a given. All rooms have a distinct Mexican flavor,and we love the junior suites which offer fab thatched-roof terraces and both jungle & ocean views. The Kinan Spa, plus incredible food & a warmth felt property-wide are reasons to book a special getaway here in 2010.

8) TWIN FARMS, VERMONT: Where else can you possibly enjoy a solid dose of Vermont/New England hospitality in posh, beautifully decorated luxury cottages with food so good it's almost reason alone to book a stay at Twin Farms, a private country estate set on 300 acres just 10 miles from Woodstock, VT. Any time of year, the picturesque, garden-filled setting is spectacular, whether you prefer fall foliage, a white Christmas or a summertime adventure.

9) BAGLIONI ROME, ITALY: What can I say about one of my favorite Rome hotels other than it's better than ever after a massive (and much-needed) redo last year. The city center location on Via Veneto is as perfect as it gets for a serious shopping/dining/cultural escape, and the new suites are stunning Art Deco gems. Beautiful furnishings & artwork line the newly expanded lobby lounge while the on-site Brunello restaurant rivals some of the best spots citywide.

10) FOUR SEASONS COSTA RICA at PENINSULA PAPAGAYO, COSTA RICA: Add this property (pictured) to my list of favorite all-time warm-weather beach resorts. The lush setting, featuring a mix of low-rise buildings that blend into the natural background and stunning suites and private homes, is flanked by two serene beaches and features multiple swimming pools (including my fave, a quiet one). It's probably the best family resort in North America, with lots of connecting rooms/large suites plus separate kids' and teens' centers as well as plenty of off-site activities on offer. That said, couples should book their stays during non-holiday periods,as it's a very romantic setting and those who golf & spa will especially love it here. It's hard to top the incredible, genuine, high level of service and foodies like me will rave about the delicious options--everything from Latin to sushi to Italian and even a fabulous steakhouse. Most notable: the service and food both rate many notches above any luxury Caribbean resort competitors.

BALI HOLIDAY

2010-01-04T19:55:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Am just back from a fabulous week in Bali--with a sidetrip to Central Java thrown in for fun. Well that, and to experience Amanjiwo--one of the most unique properties in AmanResorts' collection--and of course, to see the sun rise at Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Suffice it to say this was a memorable trip (how could it not be with stays at 4 of the 5 AmanResorts properties in Indonesia?).

Bali's changed a lot since I last visited seven years ago--there's now a total of 51,000 hotel rooms island-wide, and plenty more traffic as well--but the culture, beauty and friendliness of the Balinese people truly sets the destination apart. From the beaches of Amanusa and East Bali , where Amanusa & Amankila are located respectively, to historical Ubud (home to Amandari), the diversity of Bali is highly underrated.

Beyond the beaches and beautiful resorts, there is plenty of trekking and biking for the active set, yoga teachers & healers island-wide, hand-crafted furniture, art galleries & temples nearly everywhere you look. Amazing cuisine (lots of fresh seafood, fresh fruits and Indonesian specialties like Nasi Goreng & Gado Gado), handmade clothing, jewelry and home furnishings are found throughout the island as well.

I only wish I'd had more time to enjoy all of the above, but being the luxury hotel junkie I am, much of my time was spent visiting many of the top properties on Bali. I loved each of the AmanResorts we stayed at, including Amankila (pictured), for its stunning Indian Ocean setting; Amanjiwo, for its gorgeous design and overall uniqueness (including views of Borobudur); Amandari for its authentic sense of place in the middle of Ubud; and Amanusa for its peaceful setting and beautiful suites. We loved the food at each of the properties, as well as the spas and the oversized swimming pools (especially the three with oceanviews at Amankila). The genuine warmth & consistent high level of service experienced at each of the Aman properties is something every luxury hotel worldwide should emulate.

A few other hotels I really liked for various reasons include The Bale, a chic Small Luxury Hotel located nearly next door to Amanusa. Beautiful spacious suites with private pools, a "Wellness" menu, yoga programs, a gorgeous swimming pool and terrific GM make this property one I'd definitely recommend to my yoga/health-minded clients. Those who want to enjoy the healthy living concept in the Ubud area should also consider Como Shambhala (formerly known as Begawan Giri). Here, guests stay in one of Como Shambhala's four main residences (each is nearly a hotel within the hotel)or a spa retreat villa and can enjoy a full program of health/wellness/yoga & spa treatments along with healthy cuisine on the grounds of a beautiful private Estate. Sister property Uma Ubud, a few minutes away, is a great option at a great price. Rooms are good sized, the property intimate and pretty, the food terrific and the location ideal.

Those who love glitz & glamour will find it (and ultra-high prices) at Bulgari Bali, a sophisticated blend of Italian style with Balinese beauty. The views from the "inclinator" leading to the resort's Beach Club are to die for, and service here is also over the top. Four Seasons Sayan, the Ubud property where Julia Roberts stayed during the filming of Eat, Pray, Love, is a good option for travelers who enjoy the high level of comfort (often geared to Americans) that's standard at all Four Seasons properties worldwide.

Highlights of my trip? Here goes: Waking up at 4 am to see the sun rise over the mountains at Borobudur in Central Java; private yoga classes at Amanusa's Beach Club and overlooking the river at Amandari; massages by the best masseuses I've experienced in the world at Amanjiwo & Amandari; Celebrating New Year's Eve with great friends over a fantastic dinner at Amankila (16 hours ahead of my friends in LA!); meeting amazing people at Bali's best resorts. No matter how pretty a property is, it's the people, the culture and the service you remember long after the vacation ends.

For more information or to chat with me about an upcoming visit to Bali, one of my all-time favorite destinations, email me at elitetravelgal@gmail.com or call 310-979-9036.

South Florida Style

2009-12-22T19:09:00.000-08:00

It was a bit too rainy and cold for my liking this past weekend in South Florida, but that surely didn't stop me from enjoying a few of my favorite luxury hotels. In between time with family and friends, I stopped by the new Eau Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach; had dinner at the best kid-friendly restaurant in the country at The Breakers; and enjoyed Sunday Jazz Brunch and a peaceful evening at The Setai on South Beach.

To say the Eau Spa is about as different as it gets from traditional Ritz-Carlton style is an understatement at best. Here, it's all about indulging and enjoying...guests are encouraged to light candles, make wishes, eat cupcakes, even concoct their own personal "scrub & polish" to be used during a treatment (or taken home in a cute polka-dotted bag). The colors and furnishings are whimsical and fun...silver, purple, green, lots of funky mirrors, non-spa-like lighting fixtures, chic chandeliers, cush chaises & comfy chairs. Treatments themselves are given in one of 19 "Spa Villas", each individually decorated & named (my faves were Villa Naughty and Villa Sassy). Choose your own mood lighting, aromatherapy oils & music genre to totally customize the Eau Spa experience. It's a winning combination for the younger, hipper demographic Ritz-Carlton's been aiming to win over. I only hope that many sister Ritz-Carlton properties follow Palm Beach's lead!

Anyone with kids (or nephews, as in my case) must book at table at The Italian Restaurant at The Breakers Palm Beach. Not only is the food amazing (the chicken parm, veal Milanese, snapper Francese & chicken Marsala were hits at our table), but the service terrific (the entire staff truly seems to love kids). Most notably, you'll never have to worry about whiny hungry kids as they've got an entire arcade, video game room & plenty of toys and other tots to play with at the Family Entertainment Center adjacent to the restaurant (shown) while dinner's cooking and the adults are relaxing over a bottle of wine!. Why aren't there more restaurants using this formula? It clearly works, and the place is perfect for families of all sizes with kids of all ages!

My new favorite place to brunch on Sundays in Florida is at The Setai, a Leading Hotel of the World on the ocean in South Beach. Great music, a gorgeous decor & an incredible range of culinary treats--from traditional breakfast faves like omelettes & waffles to an Asian-inspired spread with signature dishes from Singapore to Indonesia--set the stage for a wonderful afternoon. Brunch is served from 11 am to 3 pm, and the local jazz trio adds to the overall experience. I've loved this hotel since the day I saw a model room (back in 2002 when construction was just underway) and it remains my favorite place to stay--and book--on South Beach. Much of the staff hails from sister GHM properties in Bali, and the level of service far exceeds that typically found at neighboring South Beach hotels. The spacious suites range from 600 square feet with city views to 1400 sq feet plus with full kitchens, two bedrooms and drop-dead gorgeous ocean/beach views. I love the three swimming pools (each a different temperature), the new evening Grill concept, the swanky outdoor Courtyard and chic Zen-inspired decor. Yes, it's true...I fell in love with The Setai at first sight, and I'm still in love.

Contact me about special Virtuoso amenities, best available rates & VIP perks available to our clients at each of these three luxury hotels via email at stacy@elitetravelinternational.com.

Blackberry Addicts Unite...

2009-12-10T22:44:00.000-08:00

I knew I'd met my match when I came across someone on a recent trip as addicted to his blackberry as I am to mine. Anyone who knows me on a business or personal level knows my blackberry is simply my lifeline. It's my digital rolodex, my mobile email access, and my main communication tool to clients, friends and family worldwide...something essential for someone who travels internationally as frequently as I do. It allows me to conduct business wherever I am in the world, be it an airport awaiting a flight or in the middle of the Med on a luxury cruise. To me, being able to communicate with my clients while I am on the road previewing hot new properties and familiarizing myself with destinations is just as important as being able to do so from my home office in LA.

Thus, it was beyond refreshing to meet a like-minded business owner who travels frequently in order to stay on top of the latest trends and the newest luxury products...all the while using his blackberry to stay in touch with his home office in Manhattan and clients worldwide.

The blackberry addiction was just the first of many things we discovered we had in common...with the consistent theme being our shared desire to offer a high level of personal service to high-end clients who demand accessibility, expertise and value from the people they choose to trust with their travel plans. Rather than continuing to go it alone on opposite coasts, we've formed an innovative new alliance that allows us to combine our strengths & work together to grow our respective businesses in both NYC and LA.

Stay tuned for lots more news on the affiliation of LA-based Elite Travel International with NYC-based SmartFlyer, as our partnership translates to THE one-stop go-to luxury travel firm for business and leisure travelers worldwide.

For more details, contact Stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or michael@smartflyer.com. Please follow both of us on twitter at @elitetravelgal & @mrsmartflyer as we'll be sharing exclusive news & details of our alliance on twitter in the days to come!

Last Call For XMAS Trips!

2009-12-06T23:25:00.000-08:00

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...

2009-11-30T18:48:00.000-08:00

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...

2009-11-24T05:10:00.000-08:00

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...

2009-11-09T19:33:00.000-08:00

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!

2009-10-30T06:07:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-24T06:10:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-07T12:35:00.000-07:00

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.

Why I Don't Agree with MSNBC: 2009--not 2010--is the Year of the Travel Deal

2009-09-26T11:50:00.000-07:00

A recent article on MSNBC.com stated that 2010 will be the "Year of the Travel Deal". Respectfully, I disagree. Rather, 2009 will go down in the books as the "Year of the Best-Ever Travel Deals". As more people realize they can't live without travel, the bargain basement hotel rates, deeply discounted cruises, time sensitive promos & last-minute sales will become a thing of the past--a 2009 kind of thing.

How do I know this? Well, I'm seeing signs of it already. Just yesterday, I checked space for clients wanting to sail in style to Europe (next October!), and the top suites they wanted were totally booked. On several of the top cruise lines, I'm finding limited space still exists for some of the best cabins/coolest itineraries.

The reason? Smart travelers knew that the fares/rates we've been seeing all summer surely wouldn't last. Several cruise lines have even put out press releases--as they see next year's inventories fill--stating that fares will increase as of Oct 1. And don't be fooled by some of the "2-for-1" far promos we're seeing; I've already priced some of them and to be honest, the 2010 sailings still cost more at the end of the day than those in 2009.

As for hotels, how can it possibly get better than what we've seen in 2009? Never before do I recall so many luxury hotels offering free nights and ridiculous low rates. But, looking ahead, you'll see that most of these promos are only in effect from now through Christmas. People are putting 2010 travel plans on the books, leaving hoteliers slightly less panicked about the lack of advance bookings we saw in '09. My feeling is that the "Free Night" frenzy will also go down as a 2009 memory rather than something that lingers into 2010.

If the analysts are correct, and I do believe most of them are, it will take until 4th quarter for the hotel industry to show true signs of recovery. But with recovery is the goal, you certainly can't expect to see crazy creative promos like we have this year--solely to fill rooms.

My advice? There's still 3 months left in 2009. If you haven't taken advantage of the killer luxury travel deals still on offer for the balance of this year, what are you waiting for? There's still space over the holidays (!) at some of our favorite resorts (more on this, next post) and you can find all sorts of amazing deals on last-minute cruises, through the end of the year.

If you've got the time to travel, now's the time to do it. If you wait, you'll find out that I'm right--2009, not 2010, will go down as the Year of the Travel Deal.

For more information or to chat about future travel plans, contact Elite Travel International at 310.979.9036 or via email at elitetravelgal@gmail.com. Follow us on Twitter for more talk of luxury travel trends at www.twitter.com/elitetravelgal

DOWN UNDER DIGS--Where to Sleep in Sydney

2009-09-16T15:40:00.000-07:00

We pride ourselves on our ability to match each and every client to the absolute BEST hotel for his/her needs, budget & style. Thus, on my recent trip to Sydney, it only seemed right that I sample not one, not two, but three very different luxury hotels so as to determine first hand, which clients will be happiest where. Read on for my take on where to sleep in Sydney:

For those who adore elegant, intimate boutique hotels, The Observatory is the perfect fit. Part of the Orient-Express Hotels & Resort collection, this 100-room property (pictured) oozes warmth and charm; some say it is reminiscent of a 19th century Australian mansion. I've no way to verify this of course, but I do know that I loved the Observatory's cozy, residential-style suites, with custom mahogany furnishings & huge marble baths. The hotel's Day Spa is one of the best in the city, with La Prairie treatments and a heated indoor swimming pool. The impeccable service & ultra-friendly staff stand out as a reason to return, and for me (and those who enjoy a quiet, peaceful setting), the less than 10-minute walk to City Center was a great way to burn off the hotel's amazing & hearty Australian "continental" breakfast (which could go down as one of the best hotel breakfasts I've ever had!).

Travelers who like to stay right in the middle of the city, within just a few steps of the action (ie, shops, restaurants, bars, Circular Quay, the Opera House, Botanic Gardens, the ferries & more) can't do much better than the Four Seasons Sydney. Formerly the Regent Hotel, the 531-room Four Seasons Sydney is fresh from a room renovation that completely transformed the original rooms & suites into sleek, modern settings with chic furnishings and a bevy of high-tech accoutrements (loved the oversized flat screen in my harbor view corner room!). While in house, I learned that the huge lobby/public space and the restaurants are gearing up for a total redo as well--set for completion before this year's end. Four Seasons Sydney gets my vote for having the most comfortable beds in Sydney, and if you book into a corner room, also the BEST harbour views. Nothing like watching the sunrise over the Opera House with the Harbour Bridge also in view! Most impressive, though, was the kindness of Sam at the front desk who sent complimentary chicken noodle soup up to my room when he learned from my travel pal that I was not feeling well). It's these little things that we notice--and remember--long after our stay in a great hotel.

Fans of hip & trendy boutique hotels will no doubt enjoy Blue, a Taj Hotel located on the Wharf at Woolloomooloo (steps from the famous Harry's Cafe on Wheels and a short cab ride or walk to King's Cross or City Center). The former W Sydney, the 100-room Blue Hotel is part of the much larger Wharf complex which includes trendy indoor/outdoor restaurants (like China Doll & Otto's), a Chakra Spa, apartments (including Russell Crowe's waterfront penthouse) and a full-service marina. The hotel's "blue" theme carries through to the accent colors in the sparse-yet-chic rooms to the bag of all-blue M&Ms in the mini-bar. We prefer the rooms and loft suite on the hotel's western side, as they afford the best views of the marina and city skyline.

Regardless of whether you are staying at Blue, be sure to check out The Water Bar, named "Bar of the Year" by the Sydney Morning Herald and "One of the top 10 bars in the world" by Condé Nast Traveler. (FYI: The hotel is also just across the water from my favorite yoga studio in Sydney, Yoga BC (http://www.yogabc.net/).

Unfortunately, I only had time for three hotel stays on this weeklong Sydney trip or I would have certainly booked a few nights (instead of just stopping by for an amazing lunch) at the newly renovated, harbourfront Park Hyatt Sydney. I'd have also tried the Diamant, the former Millennium Hotel now run by Eight Hotels which has been getting rave reviews from the style & design-conscious fashion/music crowd.

For more information on any of these Sydney hotels, including current pricing, promos & exclusive amenities we can offer, contact stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or call 310.979.9036.

The Sydney Scene...Part 1

2009-09-07T14:46:00.000-07:00

It's rare that I actually get to spend more than a few nights in any one destination, so a full week in Sydney--one of my top 5 fave cities--has truly been a treat. I thank V Australia for launching a terrific product at an amazing fare for inspiring me to return. Here are just a few of my observations & tips for those considering a trip Down Under.

For starters, spring (NOW) is a great time to come! Days are bright and sunny, temps in the 60s/70s. Perfect weather for walking around town, not too hot, not too cold. Make sure you plan to spend a weekend in Sydney, for several reasons. First, the markets are a dont-miss. From The Rocks and Paddington Markets on Saturday and Bondi Markets on Sunday, you'll find jam-packed stalls of locally made clothes/jewelry (many of Australia's top designers get there start at the markets).

The weekends (Thurs to Sat) are the best eves to enjoy Sydney nightlife (my favorite hot spot is The Ivy, a multi-level, open-air complex of bars/restaurants/lounges w/great music and a fun local crowd). On Sunday afternoons, no better place to be than N. Bondi Italian (the casual sister to famous Icebergs), sipping local wine, grazing on Italian fare and soaking up the views of the world-famous beach just steps away (we met the owner, so be in touch for more details & VIP attention!). Before settling in for the day, start w/an invigorating oceanfront cliffside walk (shown in photo) from surfer-filled Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach and back. IMHO, it puts Newport (RI)'s cliffwalk to shame.

Also try to plan your visit when there's a great show or cool concert at the iconic Sydney Opera House. It's an experience in and of itself... especially if you're as lucky as I was to catch a huge talent like Ben Folds. On a sunny day, spend the afternoon on the harbour with SeaSydney; you'll see & learn about who lives where (ie, Nicole Kidman's former $14 million home is on the waterfront route).

If you're a yoga addict like me, check out Lululemon's website as they have a store on George Street that offers free classes 2x/week. Other fitness fanatics will be in good company--running through the Royal Botanic Gardens is a great way to burn off the meals you won't want to miss. My faves: Jimmy Liks on Victoria Street for flavorful Thai/Vietnamese & creative cocktails and Pony, an indoor/outdoor spot on Argyle Street in The Rocks for delicious tapas, grilled meats and fish. Both hot spots highlight a seemingly new trend--communal dining tables, a fun and different way to meet people while enjoying a great meal.

One of my fave finds in Sydney is The Wine Odyssey. This incredible wine-tasting concept store, allows you to help yourself to as many local wines as you'd like (tastes start at $2) and then graduate if desired to a half or full glass. Located on Argyle St. in a stylishly decorated house, there are multiple rooms/outdoor spaces where you can lounge with your liquor or pair it with light bites. Should you find a wine you love, just walk next door to the retail store. Brilliant. And saves a trip to wine country should you be pressed for time.

Next Sydney Scene post will highlight my thoughts on top Sydney hotels. I've stayed in 3 on this trip, so as to sample a variety of styles & neighborhoods. Stay tuned. And give some serious thought to a trip Down Under!

For more tips/ideas & assistance planning a trip to Sydney, Australia, contact us at elitetravelgal@gmail.com or visit www.elitetravelinternational.com.

Escape the Madness!

2009-08-26T21:36:00.001-07:00

As if we need to give you a reason to escape the madness that is 2009 or to ring in the long-awaited arrival of 2010, here's a really good one: Elite Travel International has teamed up with our friends at SeaDream Yacht Club to offer an incredible fare of just $1,799 per person on a pair of 5-night, all-inclusive Caribbean sailings. Applicable dates for this special fare are Dec. 13-18, 2009 and Jan. 3-8, 2010.

Based on double occupancy, this "Escape the Madness" fare includes deluxe accommodations, all gourmet meals, all liquor, beach-side yoga/Tai Chi, watersports, onboard entertainment PLUS a $200/cabin spa credit (a perk of being a Virtuoso client!).

The first sailing departs from St. Thomas on Dec. 13, sails to and overnights in St. Barts (enjoy a full day and a half in our fave port!) before continuing on to St. Martin, Jost Van Dyke in the BVIs and onto San Juan for disembarkation on Dec 18th. Choose this mid-December sail and you'll get home in plenty of time for the holidays!

Or, kick off the New Year in style and sail with us Jan 3-8, 2010 round-trip from San Juan with stops in St. John, St. Barts, St. Martin & Jost Van Dyke.

Consider the value of a SeaDream cruise: One night in a luxury hotel on St. Barts can easily run $1,500...Escape the Madness and enjoy 5 nights of being pampered at sea, wining and dining while island hopping on a gorgeous 56-cabin yacht (max pax count is 112).

These fares are offered for a limited time, on a first-come, first-served basis. Fares do not include port taxes/fees or airfare. Pre-and post-cruise hotels & flights can be easily arranged through Elite Travel International. For more information, call 310.979.9036 or email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or donald@elitetravelinternational.com.

All the VIRTUOSO TravelMart News That's Fit 2 Print

2009-08-23T07:57:00.000-07:00

Want to know what's happening in the luxury travel world? Just read on, as the following is a round-up of what's hot & what's new, as revealed at the recent Virtuoso TravelMart in Las Vegas. Out of the five I have attended, this year's TravelMart (showcased on Fox Business News!) was hands down the best. A sense of optimism prevailed as nearly 3000 people involved in luxury travel gathered together to share ideas on how to best achieve our common goal.

Here are just some of the cool things I learned last week from hundreds of Virtuoso travel suppliers:

DAY 1:

All Rocco Forte hotels offer family packages that include a free room for kids when one purchased for parents...Hotel de Rome in Berlin offers teenage programs including DJ lessons & underground bunker tours...The Charles Munich has availability during Octoberfest...the Mandarin Prague offers a free 3rd night from Nov-March...A&K is waiving many single supplements...In 2010 Backroads lowers prices and offers new biking trips to Spain, Bordeaux, Portugal, Arizona & Oregon...Exeter offers sailings from Moscow 2 St Pete on the new Volga Dream, 80 pax, 1st luxury ship, great rates...Gran Hotel Bahia in Tenerife has new 1-2 BR villas, a new Moet & Tapas lounge...Kempinski Hotel in Brugges only 1 hr by train from London or Paris, great spot to visit traditional Xmas markets...Park Hyatt Paris has 3 new prez suites, each 2,500 sq ft with in-room spa/gym. Eva & Tony Parker were 1st guests...Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat is fresh from 70 million Euro refurb (nearly 1 million Euros/per room!)...Villa La Massa outside Florence has new 2 BR/2BA prez suite, nearly 2000 sq feet with huge outdoor terrace...Oceania's newest ship, the Marina, debuts Jan 2010...Horizon & Co offers luxe Master's golf package, $5,750/person includes 3 nts at the Ritz-Carlton, final day at Master's, police escorts & 2 rounds of golf...Hotel Adlon in Berlin is where Brad Pitt stayed for Inglorious Bastards, it's also Obama's Berlin hotel of choice...

DAY 2...

American's new 757-800s will have 110 AC power ports. Plus, AA launches service from LA to Vail this winter...The Portugese investment group that last year purchased Lisbon's Lapa Palace is building 2 new luxury hotels downtown...The newish Grande Real Villa, 45 min from Lisbon, sits seaside and is the former home of an Italian king...Amsterdam's Hotel Pulitzer completed major renovation last fall, still authentically Dutch but more contemporary in style...Virtuoso cruise pax docking in Mykonos should ask me about spending the day at Starwood's Santa Marina Resort. 150E/person gets you transfers to/from the port, a Greek seaside lunch and all day use of the beach...Entry-level rooms on Seabourn's new 450-pax Odyssey are 300+ sq feet with 65 sq ft balcony, spa measures 11,000 sq feet with private spa villas...in 2008, the refurbished (reopened in 2004) King George Palace in Athens upgraded 95 percent of all Virtuoso guests...Tahiti Legends can facilitate legal weddings in Tahiti as of 2010...Baroness Rothschild & Michael Phelps traveled through China with Imperial Tours...Inter-Continental Hong Kong guarantees Virtuoso clients enjoy double upgrades through end of Dec...One & Only Capetown is home to Gordon Ramsay's Maze & the city's only Nobu...Stay 3 nights each at Singita & Ellerman House and the 4th is free in each spot through July 2010...Twelve Apostles just redid its lobby & all rooms, offers free helicopter flight 2 waterfront for those staying 4 or more nights...Taj Mahal Palace & Tower will reopen 70% of its rooms this Dec, the remainder by March. Butler service to be offered in entire Palace...Jumeirah Beach Hotel has 19 new Arabian-style villas, 1-3 bedrooms right on the beach...Diane Von Fustenberg designing her first hotel rooms at Claridges in London...Wilderness Safaris donates a % of every room night booked back into local communities...the Island Shangri-La in Hong Kong will debut its 56th floor Club level in Nov...AmanResorts opens its 34-suite Amagiri in Paige, AZ Oct 15...Four Seasons Chiang Mai debuts 12 new, 1,000 sq ft pool villas this fall, offers 3rd night free.

DAY 3...

St. Regis Shanghai has female-only floors with dedicated female butlers...St. Regis Mexico City just opened, St Regis Princeville debuts Oct 1...All 18 villas at Fregate Island now have private pools...Royal Palms in Scottsdale offers 60 new rooms & a new Spa Villa that sleeps 8...Triple Creek Ranch in Montana to include lift tix/ski rental in rates this winter...All rooms being redone by year's end at Rosewood's Mansion on Turtle Creek...Utah's Sundance Resort undergoing total room renovation and introducing night skiing this winter...Four Seasons Seattle offers comp transfers to cruise port & 3rd night free...Plaza Athenee in NYC debuts newly redone suites this Nov and new spa/fitness center in Jan....New Danny Meyer restaurant to open at Gramercy Park Hotel this fall, a $295 Thanksgiving rate is on offer Nov 19-30...Trump Chicago offers 53 "Spa" rooms w/yoga mat, weights, healthy menu & $50 spa credit...Hotel Hershey just completed $76 million expansion...the redone Pierre, a Taj Hotel in NYC offers totally new rooms with spa-like marble baths...the Four Seasons DC underwent a $40 million renovation last year, including the addition of Bourbon Steak restaurant...Virtuoso clients enjoy 10% off best available rates at Wynn & Encore Hotels, plus breakfast, a $100 dining credit, early check in/late check out...a renovation will start this fall at the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota...

Day 4...

Roger Nadal & Venus Williams are fans of the Fairmont Acapulco Princess, home to one of 15 Willow Stream spas worldwide...44 unique hotels & 28 authentic restaurants throughout Mexico comprise Tesoros (treasures) de Mexico...Through Dec 24 the Presidente InterContinental Cancun will offer Virtuoso clients a double upgrade...Maroma Resort & Spa will allow kids to stay with families in its 4BR Villa Karolina; the Orient-Express Mayan Riviera resort recently added Freddy's Tequila & Ceviche Bar to its F&B outlets...Casa Sierra Nevada in San Miguel de Allende offers its gorgeous Presidential Suite for about $450/night and recently added multiple new suites to its inventory...Mauna Lani closes Sept 1-Oct 31 for room/public space renovations, has holiday space available (including one of its famed bungalows) and no min stay is required this year...When Royal Caribbean debuts 2700-cabin Oasis of the Seas this fall, it will have 37 different stateroom categories, including 2-story loft suites, 7-day Caribbean sailings start in Dec...Halekulani Resort will confirm upgrades for Virtuoso clients at time of booking, all rooms now feature HDTV & Mp3 players...David Copperfield's Musha Cay has been undergone a major facelift and now features a Balinese instead of Bahamian decor...Ritz-Carlton Jamaica offers an all-inclusive package priced from $409/night...Ritz-Carlton San Juan offers Virtuoso cruise clients day passes to its beach/pool...Bill & Hilary just vacationed at Cambridge Beaches in Bermuda...the Pan Pacific Vancouver will unveil a new room product in time for the Winter Olympics and will play host to the Today Show throughout the Games...Park Hyatt Beaver Creek has redone all suites, has a new restaurant & bar and offers 70% connecting rooms...Aspen's Little Nell will close in Sept for an $18 million renovation, reopening Dec 1 after donating all old furnishings to Habitat for Humanity. Free ski passes to anyone staying 3 nights this winter...Free skiing also offered this winter to guests of Amangani in Jackson Hole, WY...Fairmont Ghiradelli offers a $100 resort gift card per day for Virtuoso clients plus comp passes to the kids' club...Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles will open downtown on Feb 15, 2010...Miraval Spa offers Virtuoso clients a $150 spa credit per night booked.

For more information or to book your next luxury travel experience, contact the EliteTravelGal at stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or 310.979.9036.

New Year, New Rules

2009-08-09T19:06:00.000-07:00

In the past, if you hadn't yet booked your Xmas/New Year's vacation, chances are you'd be out of luck. Most of the top resorts typically sold out months if not a year in advance, and 10-14 day minimum stays were the norm. The good news is that there's still plenty of space at some of our favorite properties, and the long-enforced holiday restrictions have relaxed quite a bit.

One of the BEST options we've seen is "Christmas in Kapalua", a 5th night free promotion (yes, even during Xmas week!) offered by the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua. Our Virtuoso rates start at $715/nt and include such exclusive amenities as full breakfast for two, priority late check out/upgrade if available and a $100 Spa OR F&B credit!

If Hawaii's not on your Xmas wish list, consider "Christmas in Africa", an amazing five-night package offered (for arrivals Dec 22 or 23) at Richard Branson's Ulusaba in the Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve (pictured). Included in the $6,200 package is five nights' accommodations, all meals and drinks, twice-daily safari game drives plus safari walks, two spa treatments per room, upgrade if available and all taxes.

Or, if you prefer to travel after the holiday rush, Curtain Bluff in Antigua has an appealing offer in its "Power of '10" package. Available Jan 1 through March 31, the 2010 offer gives guests the chance to purchase a sunset sail on the hotel's private yacht, a cooking class, a second spa treatment, personal fitness training session or tennis lesson for only $10! All-inclusive rates from $995/night include all meals/drinks, watersports & 20 activities. Kudos to Curtain Bluff for taking the creative route with this New Year special!

For more information on any of the above specials or for additional holiday travel ideas, contact us at 310.979.9036 or via email: stacy@elitetravelinternational.com.

A Return to Virtuoso

2009-08-03T06:29:00.000-07:00

A funny thing happened last week. I woke up on Monday and felt the need for change. Now, I've had this feeling before--it's why I've lived & worked in DC, twice in NYC, in Florida and am now calling LA home for the 2nd time. When I get this "need for change" feeling, I know it's time to move up and move on...and so I did. I called up my friend who runs a terrific, high-end, largely entertainment-focused travel agency in the Valley and told her I wanted to have lunch. So we did. And two days later, I made the decision to affiliate with her agency (Third Millennium Travel), marking my return to the Virtuoso network after an 8-month hiatus.

Here are just a few reasons why I decided it was time for a change:

Virtuoso is comprised of the top 1 percent of US travel agencies

Clients of Virtuoso-affiliated agencies are given top priority at top hotels worldwide--this translates to priority upgrades, special amenities/perks and VIP treatment

On luxury cruises worldwide, clients are offered a choice of complimentary shore excursions, on board credit or pre-paid gratuities

Virtuoso is rolling out an amazing new website for its members, putting contact details for luxury suppliers worldwide at my fingertips (we all know, it's who you know right?). The same site, Composer, will also enable us to search super-fast for the best itinerary/product offerings for our clients.

Most importantly, as a luxury boutique travel firm that prides itself on personal service and attention to detail, we love the idea of being affiliated with not only a host agency but a network of luxury agencies that does the same.

As a Virtuoso agency, we can now offer our clients guaranteed upgrades, at time of booking, at dozens of luxury hotels (including: The Peninsula Beijing, Raffles Hotel, Hotel Le Bristol in Paris, Fairmont Whistler, Four Seasons Dublin, Gleneagles Hotel, Montage Hotels in Beverly Hills & Laguna Beach, The Breakers & The St. Regis NY).

The annual Virtuoso TravelMart is just 2 weeks away. Now that our affiliation is official, we'll be there, meeting with hundreds of luxury travel suppliers learning what's hot & what's new around the globe. We'll also be further building our strong relationships with the industry executives with whom we partner to ensure our clients always enjoy the best travel experience...wherever they are in the world.

For more information on Virtuoso and how our affiliation can benefit you on future travels, contact stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or call 310.979.9036.

A Twitter/Travel Success Story

2009-07-22T08:59:00.000-07:00

If you don't yet believe in the power of social media, especially Twitter, perhaps this story of how Twitter works for small business will change your mind. One of the first emails I received yesterday was from a gentleman requesting assistance with planning his honeymoon. Not just any honeymoon, mind you, but a five-star, first-class honeymoon. He started his email like this: "Social Media led me to your website. Thank Twitter."

A day later, he is reviewing two proposals I sent him and we will be chatting later today to finalize plans for his fabulous December honeymoon, inclusive of first-class flights and a week's stay at one of the top Caribbean resorts.

Back to yesterday: Around 2 pm (or 11 pm in Italy) I received an URGENT "Direct Message" (or DM) from a fellow "twitterer" on holiday in Italy. She is one of my 4,300+ followers, and was reaching out to see if I might be able to help her find a villa on gorgeous Lake Como (pictured above!)...for a week, starting today!!! Seems she booked into an apartment and was horrified upon arrival to find it was not as expected. Even though it was late at night, I was able to reach my top local contact via email, put the two of them in touch and woke up this morning to an email from my follower thanking me for "saving the day, and the holiday." They are now esconced in a beautiful lakeview villa w/private pool, and it's all because of the power of Twitter.

So...the moral of the story is, if you're not yet engaged with your potential customers on Twitter, why not? (As an aside, stay tuned for more news from my sister company, Social Media Mavens...specializing in social media strategy for hotels & travel companies).

For more details on how Social Media Mavens can assist with YOUR Social Media Success, contact info@smmavens.com. For more details on how EliteTravelGal can help with your luxury travel plans, email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or call 310 979 9036. And be sure to follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/elitetravelgal and www.twitter.com/socialmediamvns

Once a Traveler, Always a Traveler...

2009-07-14T08:21:00.001-07:00

It was bound to happen. Despite all of the talk about the demise of the travel industry during these tough economic times, a fascinating thing occurred: some cruise lines, airlines & hotels actually sold out their inventory for the summer season.

Of course, the reason is obvious...prices dropped so low in the past few months that traveling almost became cheaper than staying home. And talk about getting more for your money. Since when did cruise lines start giving away free shore excursions, thousands of dollars to spend onboard & free flights (not to mentions, sail prices below what we've ever seen before)? Hotels too, coughed up free nights to sweeten the pot, and in many cases, were willing to throw in free meals or really, whatever it took, to put "heads in beds."

But I am here to tell you, the days of the deep deep discounted deals industry-wide are all but over. The flood of daily deals to my inbox has slowed, and while many hotels are still offering terrific opportunities for travelers seeking great value for money, the near give-aways have nearly disappeared.

What does this mean? Well, it means that those who took advantage of the early booking opportunities definitely got the travel deals of the decade. It also means good luck securing a spot on a Regent or Oceania Cruise this summer (both lines were nearly sold out at last check). But...it doesn't mean there aren't still some good deals to be had. Seabourn Cruises, for example, is having a one-week sale (book today through Friday for best prices). Crystal Cruises dropped select fares 25% last week (for 3 days only), and Silversea continues to promote 65% off certain sailings. And many hotels, while working hard to sustain competitive rates, are still willing to throw in some great value adds (note: we've become pros at securing these for our clients in this environment).

But at the end of the day, here's what I believe: once a traveler, always a traveler. And being one myself, there are certain things in life you just can't sacrifice. Luxury travel tops my list...and regardless of what "deals" are out there or who's offering free meals, I am always going to find a way to indulge my passion (as photo taken w/a gal pal on recent trip to St. Tropez illustrates!).

Contact us today and we guarantee we can help you do the same. Suffice it to say, it likely won't be on a Regent Cruise to Alaska this summer, but we do have the inside scoop on incredible options available worldwide. Trust us, there are plenty of great options...and you'll certainly have a better shot of finding them with an expert--and fellow passionate traveler--on your side! For more details and a complimentary trip planning consultation, email EliteTravelGal@gmail.com or phone 310.979.9036.

SALE, SALE AWAY...ON CRYSTAL CRUISES

2009-07-07T04:40:00.000-07:00

Most of you who read my tweets on Twitter or follow me on Facebook know that I just spent a fabulous week aboard the beautiful Crystal Serenity. It is one of my favorite ships at sea (love the spacious penthouse suites, the stunning public spaces, the impeccable service, Silk Road by Nobu and Prego by Piero Selvaggio, Valentino's chef), and this recent 7-day Mediterranean sailing from Rome to Barcelona reminded me of why I love cruising Crystal.

If you haven't yet tried the ultra-luxury line, now's your chance. An additional 25 percent off already reduced fares on select 4th quarter itineraries is available, but here's the catch: it's a 72-hour sale and the discount only valid on bookings made July 8, 9 & 10. Note: In addition to the 25 percent off, guests receive a minimum of $500 to spend onboard (for anything but casino gaming & future cruise deposits). Clients of Elite Travel International will receive an additional $100 onboard spending credit, courtesy of EliteTravelGal and, in some cases, prepaid gratuities (inquire for more details!).

Here is a list of the sailings going on sale, for 72 hours, starting tomorrow:

Sept 26-Oct 8: Venice to Athens, from $4,088 per person w/a $1000 per person on board credit. Ports of call include Corfu, Crete, Rhodes, Mykonos & Kusadasi.

Nov 10-22: New York to Miami, from $3,139 per person w/a $500 pp credit. Ports of call include: Bermuda, St. Maarten, Antigua, Curacao, Grand Cayman.

Nov 12-22: Lisbon to Miami, from $2,655 per person, plus $500 per person. Ports of call for this trans-Atlantic sailing include: Ponta Delgada & Grand Turk.

Dec 5-20: Manaus to Buenos Aires, from $4,050 per person, plus $1000 per person. South American ports of call include: Boca de Valeria, Rio de Janeiro, Montevideo.

Dec 10-21: Caldera to Miami, from $2,381 per person, with $500 credit per person. Caribbean ports of call on this pre-holiday island cruise include: Aruba, St. Barts (!), St. Maarten and Grand Turk.

All fares include accommodations (fares vary based on level of accommodation chosen); all meals; all non-alcoholic beverages; and a wide range of onboard activities. Penthouse suites also come with butler service and in-room bar set up w/wine or liquor of your choice.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a terrific Crystal Cruise at a much reduced price! Contact us anytime this week to discuss the options, and to book you on the itinerary of your choice before these deals sail away! For more details, email me at stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or call 310.979.9036.

Why Using a (GREAT) Travel Agent Makes Sense

2009-06-09T12:58:00.000-07:00

More than ever, luxury travel consultants like myself need to find ways to sell our clients on the value of our services. We know the public is being inundated with emails, mailers, “twitter-only” deals daily, and unless we have something to offer that sounds better than just a low price, clients may be tempted to simply book direct.

The bottom line: We have so much more to offer clients than just the lowest rate. Our ability to help people wade through all the deals is just one reason they need our help. Case in point: A client came to me asking whether she should book a Bermuda getaway using a time-sensitive hotel promo (in this case, second night free) or if she should go for the $400 credit being offered at participating hotels. After reviewing both deals, she went with the latter since I was also able to get her a confirmed upgrade, daily breakfast, an extra $100 credit and a lunch for two at her property of choice. The first deal was room rate only, with no value added!

Another client called wanting me to find her a “great luxury cruise deal.” We spoke about some of the offers she’d received from the various lines. Turn out one deal is already fully sold out, one of the lines is not really suitable for a family with small kids and one is just too large a ship to suit her husband’s style. For this particular family, an FIT to Europe is a better option and as my client herself says, “There is no way I could possibly plan this on my own. We have no idea where to stay and we definitely want the best private guides.”

It's true, all of the aggressive pricing/promotional deals have definitely stimulated business for many properties and cruise lines. And for me, as I see this as an opportunity to truly prove my worth to my clients. It’s rare than I am unable to match any “deal” they’ve received in their mailbox; I stress to clients they’re best off letting me make the booking for them so that I can ensure the hotel is aware of their arrival, that all special requests are taken care of and that they are VIP’ed throughout their stay.

Often times, once they show me the “cheap” deal they are considering, I counter with something even better—and if not lower-priced, than with more value added. I just call these my “insider secrets.” For clients seeking more than just the cheapest room, these unpublished insider secrets are our best weapon. Once word gets out that not only did I get my clients a great rate at a hotel, but that I also got them breakfast, an upgrade & a free round of golf (valued at $350), it’s amazing how quickly my value is realized.

I always stress my personal relationships with people at the hotels and cruise lines, and my in-depth knowledge of the product. A website may be able to offer a great rate, but it can’t explain why a hotel is not the best choice for any number of reasons (location, noise, small rooms, poor service, dated, etc). These are things only I would know based on a recent visit. Now what website can possibly say that?

For more information or to book your next trip (with our help!), contact elitetravelgal@gmail.com or 310.979.9036.

These Are a Few of My Favorite....Deals

2009-06-02T09:08:00.000-07:00

I don't need to tell you that now is a great time to travel. You can upgrade last year's vacation (ie, stay in suites instead of rooms) for the same price (or maybe less) OR take advantage of the incredible opportunities at luxury hotels worldwide.

Personally, I'm more a fan of those hotels that do more than just drop their price when occupancies are low. True luxury these days, is all about value and the experience you get for your $$. That said, here are just a few of my favorite luxury hotel deals currently on offer (MORE to come later this week!).

The Four Seasons Westlake Village earns kudos for its creative, 2-night "Double the Fun" deal. Basically, two people enjoy a 2 night stay for the price of one, PLUS the second person doesn't pay for spa or f&b charges (equal to those of first person and exclusive of alcohol/gratuities. Best deal is on the weekends, nightly rates through Sept start at $375. As a Preferred Partner, we'll also get you breakfast for 2 and an upgraded room (if available at check in!).

I'm also giving props to the Bermuda tourism department, not for its 2-day, 50 percent off at certain hotels sale, but for its summer long "$400 resort credit" promo. To celebrate the island nation's birthday, stay at hotels like Cambridge Beaches or the Fairmont Southampton Princess and enjoy $400 to spend on food/beverages, spa treatments, etc. Our clients get an extra $100 at Cambridge Beaches, plus daily breakfast & an upgrade!

I LOVE what Orient-Express is now offering at its fabulous Italian properties, including FREE wine-tastings at Hotel Cipriani in Venice, FREE Ligurian cooking lessons at Hotel Splendido in Portofino, FREE personal training sessions at Villa San Michele in Florence & FREE cruises along the Amalfi Coast in the Hotel Caruso's Ercole boat. As a Bellini Club affiliated partner, our clients enjoy complimentary upgrades upon availability & other special perks as well!

St. Regis is also on my radar with its $375 (breakfast inclusive) intro rates at St. Regis Princeville opening October 1. Book now & chances are pretty good an upgrade is guaranteed. Families can enjoy half-off a connecting room for kids this summer at St. Regis Punta Mita when a suite is booked. St. Regis Punta Mita also has a great Golf package with rates from $645 that include greens fees for two and a room upgrade.

Last but not least, for now, two of my new favorite hotels, CordeValle & SandHill Resort (Rosewood Hotel's gems in Northern California) have fantastic summer offerings. Ask us about "free golf" at CordeValle (where our rates also include breakfast) and incredible spa packages at SandHill (the perfect spot for a meeting in Menlo Park, by the way).

I PROMISE! More luxury deals to be posted later this week. For more info on any of the above, to book or learn about the special perks offered exclusively to clients of Elite Travel International, call 310 979 9036, email elitetravelgal@gmail.com or visit www.elitetravelinternational.com.

Mexico Madness--Great Deals at Fab Hotels

2009-05-18T18:45:00.000-07:00

Mexico's a timely topic here at the annual Advisory Board meeting for Rosewood Hotels, parent company of 2 of my favorite Mexican hotels--Las Ventanas and Rosewood Mayakoba (in Cabo and Riviera Maya, respectively). And as promised, here is a quick run-down on some of the best offerings at luxury hotels in Mexico right NOW (keep in mind...the CDC warning's been lifted and no cases of that flu were reported in Cabo, Ixtapa or Riviera Maya):

Rosewood's Destination Mexico Promotion features rates from $395 at Rosewood Mayakoba and from $515 at Las Ventanas. Included in the rate is full breakfast for two, a $200 resort credit and if you book through Elite Travel International, upgrade priority and additional amenities. There is a three-night minimum stay, valid on stays through October 14.

Fairmont Mayakoba's "Sweet Deal" package definitely is a SWEET DEAL. Rates from $279/night through mid-November include daily breakfast buffet and a $250 f&b credit (per stay), one complimentary access pass to the Willow Stream Spa facilities (valued at $98) PLUS, purchase one 60-minute spa treatment get a 30-min one free. Purchase a round of golf at El Camaleon, play as many rounds as you want. AND, enjoy a complimentary boat tour of the water canals.

At the beautiful Capella Ixtapa, rates through Oct 15th include daily breakfast, free WiFi, afternoon snacks, water/soft drinks, a $100-$250 resort credit (depending on room style booked) and upgrade priority when booked through Elite Travel International.

Kudos to Kor Hotel Group for thinking outside of the box! The Tides Zihuatanejo will actually reimburse you for plane fare (from $500 to $1000/ticket for 2 tickets depending on room category booked) when you book a minimum five-night stay. Or, book one room get the second room free!

As you might expect, there are a lot more luxury Mexico hotel deals currently on offer. We'll update this list regularly and also post new offerings as they come in on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/elitetravelgal) NB: Book your Mexico vacation through Elite Travel International and we'll ensure you are VIP'ed at the hotel of your choice.

For more information, contact elitetravelgal@gmail.com or visit www.elitetravelinternational.com.

Not All Travel Agencies R Created Equal

2009-05-08T11:36:00.000-07:00

Elite Travel International (ETI) is not your grandmother’s travel agency. In fact, the boutique luxury travel firm run by the founder of Elite Traveler Magazine, Stacy Small (aka EliteTravelGal), is probably not even your mother’s travel agency. Rather, the Brentwood, CA-based firm (with satellite offices in NYC & W. Palm Beach, FL), caters to a jet-setting, young professional crowd more likely to request their family’s next vacation via Blackberry, text message, Twitter DM or Facebook wall post than by phone or in person. In keeping with the “green” trend, traditional brochures are seldom used (ETI’s clients much prefer a website link or personal recommendation!).

Signifying the “out with the old” connotation the term “travel agent” conjures up, Elite Travel International is a full-service, one-stop travel concierge. Or, in other words, ETI is comprised of luxury travel experts who share with clients a very customized and personalized level of expertise, largely drawn from longtime sales and marketing careers coupled with worldwide travels of their own.

In addition to Small, who traveled the world on assignment for national travel magazines for 15 years before launching Elite Travel International, ETI is comprised of Donald Gorbach, a former veteran real estate broker; Kate Rice, a seasoned travel reporter; and Kara Slater, a top-performing former magazine publishing executive. All three bring to the travel business a unique perspective on what today’s luxury client is looking for in terms of customer service and professionalism. And, like Small, all three have traveled extensively worldwide.

In addition to its modern take on and approach to what today’s client wants, the firm differentiates itself from other luxury travel firms by NOT charging its clients exorbitant booking fees or high annual retainers.

“We do things for our clients as a courtesy that many other travel firms charge a lot of money for,” says Small. “This includes, but is not limited to, booking restaurant reservations and spa appointments, securing theater tickets, arranging limo transfers, pretty much whatever our clients need while traveling we do for them. We like our clients to think of us as their one-stop travel concierge.”

Elite Travel International specializes in custom luxury travel arrangements and personalized VIP service for both leisure & corporate travelers worldwide. An extensive network of high-level industry contacts, firsthand knowledge of the products represented, and the company’s prestigious affiliation with TravelStore, Inc. (the largest privately owned travel agency in California) and the Signature Travel Network translate to exclusive perks for client such as priority upgrades, breakfast-inclusive rates, early check in/late check-out, shipboard credit on luxury cruises, and the highest possible level of service at hotels and resorts around the globe.

Let’s face it: Someone who wants a flight between point A and point B can easily do it themselves. And if budget is the only concern, the Internet works just fine. But, for those who wouldn’t dare touch their own taxes or handle their own legal work, ETI is the one-stop shop for all luxury travel-related needs and plans.

For more information, email elitetravelgal@gmail.com, follow us at www.twitter.com/elitetravelgal or visit http://www.elitetravelinternational.com.

Luxury 4 Less: From Colorado to the Caribbean

2009-05-07T21:05:00.000-07:00

My inbox overfloweth this week with emails from luxury travel companies offering serious summertime specials. Here are some outstanding, value-heavy deals from a few of my favorite hotels:

At Orient Express' Hotel Caruso in Ravello on the Amalfi Coast, a three-night Great Affordables package, priced from 3,165Euros includes three nights' accommodations in a seaview balcony room, full breakfast daily, two dinners, a poolside lunch, round-trip airport transfers and a half-day guided private tour of Pompei. Book now for stays through October 26.

Caneel Bay, a Rosewood Resort on St. John, USVI, rates start at just $325/night through Nov. 18 and include daily breakfast and a $100 resort credit. Book by May 15 and get an extra $100 resort credit. The offer is based on a four-night minimum stay.

A fabulous "Family Escape" package is offered at the new Capella Telluride Resort in the heart of Colorado's stunning San Juan Mountains. The four-day package includes breakfast for two per bedroom, four nights a 1-, 2- or 3-bedroom condo, 50% off all food & beverage for kids under 13, 20 percent off spa services and a $300 resort credit. Rates vary based on accommodation chosen, and the 4th night is free.

From June 20 through Nov. 20, Four Seasons Costa Rica offers rates from just $395/night with the 5th night free. Book through Elite Travel International, and the rate will also enjoy daily breakfast for two, an upgrade (if available) & a $100 golf credit.

At the Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall, the Escape to Luxury package pretty much turns the high-end beachfront hotel into an all-inclusive resort. Rates from $409/night include all meals, beverages, and accommodations. Plus, stay four nights & get the 5th free. (NB: As of this writing, space still available over Memorial Day weekend!)

Other deals worth a mention: Free round-trip air from NYC offered with select Windstar cruises to Europe this summer AND all-inclusive rates of $499/night at Galley Bay in Antigua (representing a 50 percent savings).

For more information on these & other luxury travel deals offered worldwide, contact Elite Travel International at 310.979.9036 or elitetravelgal@gmail.com.

Deals of the Day: Aspen, Sardinia & Manhattan

2009-05-04T22:23:00.001-07:00

These days, it's all about finding the best value for your $$ even at the world's best hotels. Here are a few of our favorite deals at a few favorite of our hotels:

No need to wait in a taxi line or pre-reserve a car service when booking the "Bed & Benz" package at the Four Seasons NY (shown, left). Rates from $935/night include round-trip transportation in a chauffeured Mercedes Benz between the hotel & any of the city's 3 major airports, as well as meet and greet service at the airport location. NB: Book through Elite Travel International and you'll also enjoy full breakfast for 2, a room upgrade if available and a $100 spa credit.

To commemorate its 120th anniversary, Aspen's Hotel Jerome introduces a “History Buff” package inclusive of 3 nights in a Deluxe King room, a historic tour of Aspen, 2 complimentary Aspen Crud cocktails at the famed J-Bar (learn its origin and recipe), plus 1889-themed turndown amenities such as Jerome silver dollar souvenir coins, an 1889 photo album of the hotel and “Fun Facts about 1889”. Rates start at $899, based on double occupancy, May 22-Jan 2, 2010.

Through June 18, experience the best of Sardinia with Hotel Cala di Volpe's "Spring Escapade" package. Rates of 580E/night include accommodations in a classic double, daily breakfast, choice of lunch or dinner, and use of a rental car throughout your stay. There is a four-night minimum. The deal is offered again come fall, from September 13.

For more details, to book or for more value-added packages at luxury hotels, contact us via email: stacy@elitetravelinternational.com; twitter.com/elitetravelgal or phone 310.979.9036.

Why We Need Twitter

2009-05-03T17:44:00.000-07:00

When I first heard of Twitter, like many, I thought I had no use for it. In one week and the addition of nearly 1,200 followers, I've changed my tune. There is no doubt Twitter is becoming an essential communication tool for companies worldwide. This includes travel companies, top journalists, news stations, magazines, politicians, as well as people like you and me who now have the opportunity to communicate directly with all of the above.

This morning alone, I learned from Kimpton Hotels COO Niki Leondakis that all Kimpton Hotels are offering late check-out Sundays in May (in honor of “Better Sleep Month). I also learned through morning posts by various “tweeters” that a 6.1 earthquake hit western Guatemala; that all hotels (and restaurants with patios) are open in Cancun (despite cancellation rate of 70 percent); that Fairmont, Four Seasons & Kimpton rank at top of Health Magazine’s “Healthiest Hotels” list; and that Ritz-Carlton’s new “Peace of Mind” package gives my clients 5 nights for the price of 3.

The immediacy of being able to learn what is happening, throughout my industry and the world, is what makes Twitter such a game changer. Since you have the ability to choose which companies and individuals you want to “follow,” you cannot only keep up with what your favorite companies are offering but also read a plethora of relevant news stories all in one place. For example, during the swine flu crisis, I was able to follow what CNN, MSNBC.com, the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, the CDC, the White House, Mexican tourism officials, airlines, hotels and locals living in Mexico City and observers were reporting—without having to skip around from website to website in search of accurate information.

The true beauty of Twitter is that posts are limited to 140-characters, giving you a brief read on the topic of interest. Many tweeters also post a link to a relevant article or blog containing more in-depth information related to their “tweet", and you can respond directly or publicly to this person with your thoughts. As I heard recently, Facebook is for connecting with those you know while the main idea of Twitter is for connecting with those you want to know.

For example, after seeing Leondakis’ post about Kimpton’s "Sleep In" promo, I shot off a quick response letting her know how clever I thought this was and what a fan of Kimpton I am. She responded immediately, thanking me for the note. Now I know I have a direct line to the hotel company’s COO should I ever need it! This is just one example of how easy it is, thanks to Twitter, to build new relationships with people you would otherwise never be able to “meet”.

I also took the opportunity to connect with some local residents in Mexico City, Cancun and Los Cabos during the swine flu panic, as I wanted their first hand take on what was happening rather than just relying on what we were hearing here in the States. Even if a direct dialogue does not develop (some tweeters are quite popular as you can imagine), you can still take advantage of knowing what people of interest to you are thinking, doing, planning, offering, etc. based on their updated “tweets.”

Among those I follow, for my own personal interests, are Bonnie Fuller (Huffington Post columnist and former editor of US Weekly, Cosmo and other mags), several rescue dog organizations and many yoga devotees. I also enjoy following celebs such as Mariel Hemingway, Virginia Madsen, Seth Rogen, Dane Cook, Ashton Kutcher, Joel Madden and the Kardashian sisters solely for entertainment purposes, while I find following business people like Steve Case, Seth Godin, Suzy Welch, Russell Simmons and Richard Branson to be both interesting and inspiring.

Whether or not you choose to join the Twitter generation is entirely up to you. But if you do join, feel free to follow me at www.twitter.com/elitetravelgal and I will see you in Twitterville.

FREE Nights from Barbados to Bali to the Big Island

2009-04-18T16:59:00.000-07:00

At top luxury resorts worldwide, the "FREE NIGHT" trend continues. It's even happening at properties we never considered trend-followers. But it's all good news for those who love their luxury travel--and who want more for their money in these tough economic times. Now's the time to take advantage of these special offers at properties from Hawaii to Mexico, Barbados to Vermont, Bali to the Maldives. You get the picture. Below, EliteTravelGal's recommendations on where to go now...for less.

On the Big Island's Kahala Coast, the Fairmont Orchid (pictured) is offering a free 3rd night for every two booked plus a $200 resort credit when booked in oceanview room through Dec. 20.

4th night is free at the new Capella Ixtapa, with rates from $350/night for oceanview room w/private plunge pool. Breakfast and $100 spa credit included when booked through Elite Travel International. 4th night is also free at Las Ventanas al Paraiso in Los Cabos for those booking three nights and arriving Sun-Tues through Dec. 18. Book through Elite Travel International and rates include breakfast, a ceviche/margarita tasting plus upgrade if available.

Third night is free at Twin Farms, VT through mid-September. Translation: Pay only $3,000 per couple for three nights all inclusive (all meals, all drinks, all activities, private cottage accommodations) instead of $4,500. Special perks apply when booking through Elite Travel International.

Barbados' Sandy Lane is offering a complimentary 7th night for 6 booked for stays during June & September. Also new: Kids eat free May through December.

Bali-bound vacationers: Enjoy a free third night at either Four Seasons property (Jimbaran or Sayan), plus breakfast, an upgrade, a resort credit and VIP perks when booking through ETI (a Four Seasons Preferred Partner). NB: Combine the two and enjoy complimentary packing/repacking services and seamless check in/check out.

The list goes on and on, but we'll end today's FREE NIGHT post with a deal at Four Seasons Maldives Kuda Huraa, where every 4th night is free with three booked (making for the perfect 8-night honeymoon/summer getaway for price of only six). This is the spot for a pure private island experience. Even the spa sits on its own private island

For more information or to book these incredible luxury travel deals, email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or phone 310.979.9036.

Why Travel Solo?

2009-04-12T08:54:00.001-07:00

No matter how many single friends you have, there's no guarantee your schedules and budgets will jibe when it comes vacation time. No worries and no need to travel solo. Elite Singles Travel, a new division of Elite Travel International, is catering to the single (and newly single) market with upscale single trips like a 7-day Mediterranean Crystal Cruise in June, a 4-night spa trip to Canyon Ranch in August, a Best of Sydney trip in September, and a wine-themed trip to Argentina this fall. Future trips may include an African safari, a Costa Rica adventure, yoga-themed trips to Bali, Mexico & beyond, biking in Tuscany and more.

Elite Singles Travel bills itself as the "anti-Club Med" and is not a matchmaking service. Instead, its offerings are geared towards the sophisticated solo traveler who simply prefers not to dine alone in a foreign country!

"I started this company with my former girlfiend as we traveled all over the world together and neither of us wanted to give up traveling, but we also didn't want to travel alone," says Elite Singles Travel co-founder, Donald Gorbach. "I know there are a lot of other upscale singles who share my desire to see the world, but prefer not to do so alone."

The company is in the process of launching a website that will detail upcoming trips and invite suggestions for future trips. In the meantime, for more information about Elite Singles Travel or to reserve a spot on the upcoming June cruise from Rome to Barcelona email singles@elitetravelinternational.com or call 888.958.9744.

Crazy About Capella

2009-04-04T13:50:00.000-07:00

There's a major new player in the Mexican luxury resort market, and with introductory rates of $350/night through October, EliteTravelGal highly recommends booking a flight NOW to Zihuatanejo (just over 3 hours nonstop from LA) and settling in for a relaxing stay at the new, 59-room Capella Ixtapa.

The brainchild of Horst Schultze, the same genius hotelier who created the ritzy Ritz-Carlton brand, Capella Ixtapa is located amidst the priciest real estate in a town (Ixtapa) surrounded by breathtaking cliffs and Pacific ocean views. Not a detail at this resort is left untended, thanks to the friendly personal assistants at every guests' beck & call, and a staff that's been trained by the legendary Schultze himself.

Understated casual luxury is the name of the game at this Mediterranean-infused-with-Mexican-style, 7-story property that feels much larger than its 59 rooms and suites (each of which has its own private oceanview plunge pool!). Delicious dining options include freshly caught fish on the cliffside terrace; tapas & tequila at the alfresco Terrace Bar; fabulous Mexican-style breakfasts and light lunch options poolside at Las Rocas; and gourmet specialties at the stylishly designed Al Mares (where we especially love the window nook, oceanview tables for two).

Other reasons to book Capella Ixtapa NOW before word spreads & rates climb include: a gorgeous cliffside spa (complete with an outdoor treatment room for two!) and amazing therapists (request my favorite, Maricru, formerly of the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman); an ultra-friendly & eager to please staff; and an overall relaxing vibe complete with a high-level of discreetness & privacy combined with convenient high-tech touches (one-touch controls for lights/fans/tv, free wireless internet and electronic "do not disturb" notifications).

EliteTravelGal's favorite part of the resort? The huge private terrace with its ultra-cushy day bed steps from both my bed & my plunge pool, blending the line between indoor living & out. It's a style of living we just lovemoon. NB: This is a PERFECT option for honeymooners & couples seeking a romantic getaway. The setting and vibe just invite coupledom (the tequila bar helps too!).

Contact us NOW via email for more info on the intro $350/night rates plus details on how to get your 4th night , breakfast & a spa treatment FREE when booking through Elite Travel International.

THE WORLD'S BEST SINGLES’ CRUISE

2009-03-21T19:41:00.000-07:00

Elite Singles' Travel, a division of Elite Travel International, cordially invites all travel-loving singles to join us on an exclusive Mediterranean Singles’ Cruise aboard Crystal Cruises' luxurious Crystal Serenity. Sail in style with like-minded, high-end singles while visiting some of the world's most storied locales, including: Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre, Monte Carlo, St. Tropez and Barcelona.

Priced at just $4,900 per person,* the experience includes accommodations in a deluxe ocean view stateroom with verandah; fabulous cuisine (famed Chef Nobu Matsuhisa oversees the onboard Silk Road); exciting evening entertainment plus a Vegas-style casino; the best spa at sea; & award-winning service.

PLUS, enjoy Elite's Signature Singles Amenities, including: pre-paid gratuities; a $100 shipboard credit per person; private cocktail receptions; a dedicated onboard host; and many other VIP surprises & perks throughout the sailing. Round-trip air, private transfers and pre- and post-stay experiences in Rome and/or Barcelona can be easily arranged through Elite Travel International.

*Cruise Based on Double Occupancy, excludes taxes and airfare. Single supplement available for roughly $200/day. Suites can be arranged at an additional cost.

PLUS...$100 Referral Program- Know someone who might be interested in this exciting sailing? Refer them to us and YOU will receive a $100 American Express Gift Card upon their return!

For more details or reservations, contact Stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or phone 310.979.9036.

24-HOUR DOWN UNDER DEAL!!

2009-03-19T08:20:00.000-07:00

If you've dreamed of going to AUSTRALIA, now's your chance. But better book by tomorrow (Friday March 20) or this incredible deal will be history. For the next 24 hours, pay only $1,199 for round-trip flights from LAX to Sydney and enjoy five nights at the Inter-Continental Sydney. Round-trip airport transfers included as well. Now this is a serious bargain. So good in fact, I'm even booking myself that long-talked about trip to one of my all-time favorite cities in the world.

Book by end of day tomorrow, and travel March 21 through August 10. If you prefer to fly from NY, it's only $200 more. Business class add-ons available for $5,500. Flights available on V Australia, United Airlines and Qantas.

Contact Elite Travel International TODAY for more details on this deal to Down Under via email at elitetravelgal@aol.com or phone, 310 979 9036.

Sushi (& MORE) at Sea

2009-03-17T11:15:00.000-07:00

Crystal Cruises has put forth an offer no sushi lover (like myself) can possibly resist. Famed Chef Nobu Matsuhisa (called one of America's 10 Best Chefs by the LA Times) is joining guests aboard Crystal Serenity’s July 28 Mediterranean cruise with stops in Venice, San Marino, Corfu, Rhodes, Bodrum, Istanbul, Mykonos & Athens!

Besides creating a week of menus exclusively for Crystal Cruises guests as well as omakase (chef's choice) menus in the ship's complimentary Silk Road Restaurant Nobu will be interacting with guests during culinary demonstations, cooking lessons and book signings. Fares start at $6,055 per person, double occupancy for this special Nobu-inclusive sailing.

PLUS, Elite Travel International clients will enjoy a $2,000 per couple shipboard credit (redeemable for spa treatments, shore excursions, shop purchases, wine/cocktails) and pre-paid gratuities!

Contact us via email at elitetravelgal@aol.com or phone 310 979 9036 today for more information and to hold your spot on EliteTravelGal's favorite foodie-themed sailing of the summer season!

Deals of the Day

2009-03-11T22:34:00.000-07:00

Another day, another great luxury travel deal. What else is new?

Actually, today we've got a few new offers for you...from a fantastic March '09 rate in SFO to incredible intro pricing at new properties in Ixtapa and Capetown. Book any of these deals through Elite Travel International and extra-VIP service is always guaranteed.

If you've got business to do in San Francisco, you won't find a better deal than the $259 deluxe room rate being offered at Campton Place, a Taj Hotel (pictured) through the end of March. In addition to more than 50 percent in savings, the "Corporate Business Package" includes a welcome drink on arrival, daily breakfast, one suit pressed at no charge, and complimentary house car service in the morning. The rate is based on a minimum two-night stay.

At the brand new, 91-room One & Only Cape Town opening April 3, those who book a stay between opening day and end of September will enjoy two complimentary spa treatments, and a bottle of Cape Estate Wine. The Grand Opening special also allows up to two children to stay for free with parents (a three-night minimum stay is required).

And in Ixtapa, Mexico, where Capella Hotels & Resorts recently opened a stunning property, introductory rates of $350/night have been extended through mid-October. The brainchild of Horste Schultze, founder of Ritz-Carlton Hotels, Capella Ixtapa Resort and Spa is the ideal spot for a romantic escape, a relaxing stress-free honeymoon or long weekend getaway.

For more information on these and many other luxury hotel deals, contact The EliteTravelGal via email at elitetravelgal@aol.com or phone at 310.979.9036.

To the Turks & Caicos We Go...

2009-03-09T10:22:00.000-07:00

In keeping with the "free night" & "more for your money" trends, resorts on Providenciales in the Turks & Caicos are stepping up with great rates and offers.

The Regent Palms Turks & Caicos, for example, offers a free night on all bookings of four to 13 nights for stays through end of October. Those staying more than 14 days receive three nights gratis. The property is also appealing to families with its special second room deal. Here's the scoop: Book any one-bedroom oceanview or oceanfront suite or penthouse for stays from April 15 to Oct 28 and enjoy half off a second or third connecting room creating a family-friendly, spacious two- or three-bedroom unit. All rates include continental breakfast and of course, VIP treatment when booked through Elite Travel International.

At Grace Bay Club (pictured), book three nights and the fourth is free through December 19, plus enjoy a complimentary upgrade at time of booking. Clients of Elite Travel International will also receive daily breakfast, a $100 credit for dinner at the Grill Rouge, champagne upon arrival and priority early check in/late check out upon request. Guests booking four nights in a Penthouse Suite through April 30 will also enjoy a $2,000 resort credit!

For more details or to book, contact The EliteTravelGal via email or phone 31.979.9036.

March Madness, Antigua-Style

2009-03-06T10:22:00.000-08:00

Still seeking an idea for a warm-weather getaway that won't break the bank? Take advantage of the just-announced March Madness rates at Galley Bay Resort & Spa, an ultra-romantic, green-certified hideaway on Antigua’s west coast. The all-inclusive rates start at $499 per couple, representing a 51 percent reduction off the original $1,015 nightly rate! Now that's serious savings.

These special March Madness rates are applicable for bookings at Galley Bay confirmed through Elite Travel International by March 31 for travel through December 20, 2009. The boutique property features 94 rooms fronting a private beach or lush tropical gardens; each has its own private plunge pool.

For more details and to book, contact The EliteTravelGal via email at elitetravelgal@aol.com or phone 310.979.9036.