Jetsettersblog

AMResorts, a provider of resort sales, marketing and brand management services, celebrates the opening of Golden Bear Lodge & Spa Cap Cana, the company’s first property under the new Zoëtry Collection of resorts.

Inspired by the beauty of Cap Cana on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic, and the life and legacy of golf legend Jack Nicklaus, the Golden Bear Lodge & Spa offers golf enthusiasts and discerning travelers an unparalleled level of service, accommodations and amenities consistent with the Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts brand.

Part of the Preferred Boutique and Preferred Golf groups, the Caribbean’s much-awaited resort development offers a new kind of vacation experience perfect for golf enthusiasts, family gatherings, romantic getaways and business retreats.

The 126 one- and two-bedroom suites feature accommodations complete with stylish furnishings, marbled bathrooms and views of the Caribbean Sea and a Nicklaus-designed golf course. Other in-room amenities include pillow selection menus, Jacuzzis for two, fully equipped kitchenettes, private terraces or patios, personalized turn-down service and more. Select suites also offer private plunge pools.

Guests can also enjoy Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts’ signature Endless Privileges, which grant unlimited access to premium cocktails, worldwide calls, private in-suite dining, welcome bottle of rum, daily bottle of champagne and fruit basket, twice-daily maid service, gourmet dining options, free-form infinity swimming pool, roundtrip airport transfers, and two complimentary rounds of golf at Punta Espada for every three-night-minimum stays.

Additional resort amenities include limousine and helicopter services, nanny services, full-service spa and fitness center, and four lighted tennis courts.

The resort is also located near all of Cap Cana’s fine-dining restaurants, exclusive membership clubs, boutiques, horseback-riding grounds, and the Caribbean’s most modern and complete marina.

For a limited time, guests staying at Golden Bear Lodge & Spa, The Zoëtry Collection can enjoy a complimentary third night with the purchase of two nights, a free round of golf at Punta Espada, rated the No. 1 golf course in all of Mexico and the Caribbean by Golfweek for the second consecutive year, a 50 percent discount on green fees or 65 percent discount on twilight greens fees for additional rounds, complimentary golf for kids, a bottle of wine and dining experience plus a complimentary spa treatment with the purchase of two.

Offer is valid for bookings through Jan. 31, 2010, for travel between now and Apr. 30, 2010. For more information or reservations, call 888-4ZOETRY or visit www.zoetryresorts.com

Sir Richard Branson, founder of Virgin, and SpaceshipOne (SS1) designer Burt Rutan revealed SS2 to the public for the first time since construction of the world’s first manned commercial spaceship began in 2007.

SS2 has been designed to take many thousands of private astronauts into space after test programming and all required U.S. government licensing and regulatory approvals have been completed.

As the official sales channel for Virgin Galactic throughout the Americas, Virtuoso and select members of this leading luxury travel network were present for the unveiling event. The organization’s CEO, Matthew D. Upchurch, who is also a “Founder” passenger with Virgin Galactic, headed the Virtuoso group attending the event.

The unveiling represents another major milestone in Virgin Galactic’s quest to develop the world’s first commercial space line providing private sector access to space. The spaceship draws on the experience developed during the successful flights of SS1 in 2004, which won the Ansari X-Prize for completing the world’s first manned private space flights.

The SS2 design will be refined and completed during an extensive test flying program to commence shortly, and it will be an entirely new vehicle capable of carrying up to six passenger astronauts and up to two pilot astronauts into space on a suborbital flight, subject to applicable regulatory approvals.

The unveiling took place at Mojave Air and Spaceport as darkness fell on the famous aviation and spaceflight location. SS2 will be attached to her WK2 mothership which was last year unveiled and named Eve after Branson’s mother.

In the future, WK2 will carry SS2 to above 50,000 feet (16 kilometers) before the spaceship is dropped and fires her rocket motor to go into space from that altitude.

In honor of a long tradition of using the word Enterprise in the naming of Royal Navy, U.S. Navy and NASA vehicles, and even science fiction spacecraft, California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson will christened SS2 with the name Virgin Space Ship (VSS) Enterprise.

This represents not only an acknowledgement of that name’s honorable past, but also looks to the future of the role of private enterprise in the future exploration of space.

For more information,

visit www.virgingalactic.com

Wilderness at the Smokies in East Tennessee, the southeast’s largest indoor and outdoor waterpark resort, opened its newest attraction, Runaway Canyon.

Runaway Canyon is located in the Wild WaterDome indoor waterpark at Wilderness at the Smokies resort.

Runaway Canyon is a five-story enclosed waterslide measuring more than 450 feet and featuring a total drop of almost 60 feet.

Using more than 8,000 gallons of water per minute, Runaway Canyon propels up to four people in rafts through a series of exciting, totally enclosed twists, turns and drops.

Runaway Canyon sends entire families rocketing through winding channels and gargantuan tunnels.

This dark journey has you blasting through water curtains, climbing high onto steeply banked walls, and leaning into explosive turns, 360-degree loops and pulse-pounding dips. Runaway Canyon features themed lighting, music and sound effects that provide the ultimate family thrill.

Runaway Canyon represents an additional local investment by Wilderness at the Smokies of more than $1 million.

For more information, visit

www.WildernessAtTheSmokies.com

The opening of the Caribbean’s first long-distance hiking trail within the next two years is set to attract a new wave of hikers to the Caribbean and boost the region’s credentials for adventure travellers.

Dominica’s Waitukubuli National Trail covers the length of the island from north to south, totalling 115 miles due to the mountainous landscape.

It will take walkers around two weeks to complete the route. The trail is divided into 14 sections that vary in length and difficulty, with the longest segments involving walks of approximately eight hours.

The segment divisions will allow walkers not wishing to hike the entire length to dip in and out of the route or just hike particular segments.

The Waitukubuli National Trail promotes Dominica’s spectacular natural landscapes and cultural heritage, passing through rainforests; the Morne Trois Pitons National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site); the Carib Territory; past rivers, lakes and waterfalls; historical sites; and along old Carib/Kalinago paths first cut by indigenous people. Some trail sections also follow coastal routes.

The trail’s name comes from the Kalinago (Carib Indian) name for Dominica – Waitukubuli – meaning ‘Tall is her body’

The exact completion date for the trail has not yet been announced, although several sections follow existing walking routes that can already be enjoyed.

Further details will be announced in due course.

The Waitukubuli National Trail is a major initiative for Dominica that will highlight the island’s active and healthy environment; benefit rural communities; and greatly enhance the island’s adventure travel product. The trail is jointly funded by the European Union and the Dominican Government.

10 day golfing break from £1130 pp

Fleewinter, the specialist tour operator that provides a concierge-style service is currently offering 10-day golfing breaks to Cape Town from £1130 pp (valid until 30 November).

Accommodation is in a smart two-bedroomed (both with en-suite bathrooms) apartment in Camps Bay – the best address in Cape Town – and just a short walk from the shops, bars and restaurants.

The air-conditioned apartment has ocean views, a sun balcony, shared use of 2 private swimming pools, grounds and Jacuzzi, sun loungers in the garden and a traditional South African braais (BBQ).

Golfers will be in seventh heaven with no fewer than six top courses to play – with Fleewinter booking tee off times to suit the party.

The choice of courses includes:

De Zalze Winelands – a par 72 hole course which was host to the 2006 World Team Championship (www.golfdezalze.com ).

Erinvale – a par 72 – Gary Player-designed course which has twice hosted the South African Open (www.erinvale.co.za ).

Steenberg Golf Club – an 18 hole course located on the oldest wine farm on the Cape Peninsula dating back to 1682 (www.steenberggolfclub.co.za ).

Pearl Valley – home to the 2008 South African open this course has spectacular mountain backdrops (www.pearlvalley.co.za ).

The price includes international flights and 10 nights’ accommodation as detailed above.

For further information call 020 7112 0019 (www.fleewinter.com ). Fleewinter can also book airport transfers (£32 each way per party of four) and car hire on request.

Fleewinter specialises in offering a concierge-style service with international and regional flights, car-hire, private chauffeurs, restaurant/concert/sporting bookings and baby sitting all available on request. Booking through Fleewinter is the same price (or cheaper) than booking direct and its AITO membership means 100% financial protection.

In addition to Cape Town and the Garden Route Fleewinter also offers holidays to Brazil, Bali, Barbados, the Maldives, Morocco, Norway, Sri Lanka, St. Lucia, Thailand and Tobago.

The Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas opened today with over 75% occupancy booked for December and January. Outrigger’s second property in Phuket opened on time in an environment where many hotel openings have been delayed.

The property’s opening General Manager, Mr Pieter van der Hoeven, attributed exceptional booking levels from Korea, Hong Kong, Japan and Australia to the resort’s unique “value plus space” proposition.

Until 31 March, 2011 the 229 square metre two-bedroom villa will sell from Thai Baht 6,000* (US$176), the 457 square metre three-bedroom pool villa starts at Thai Baht 9,000* (US$265), and the 604 square metre four-bedroom pool villa is available from Thai Baht 13,000* (US$382).

“We’re getting a lot of interest and bookings from visitors who already know Phuket quite well, but want a home away from home where they can find time for themselves in luxury surroundings,” said Mr van der Hoeven.

The 68-villa property is part of the Laguna Phuket destination resort at Bang Tao beach.

Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas guests have signing privileges at 30 food and beverage outlets and spa facilities across Laguna Phuket, and at the nearby Laguna Phuket Golf Course. Outrigger guests also receive free transfers to the resort’s own beach club.

Mr van der Hoeven said butler service, a gymnasium, a kids’ club, free wifi and a conveniently located international poolside restaurant were contributing factors that had driven demand beyond pre-opening expectations.

The special opening rates at Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas, which are valid until 31 March 2011, can be booked online at www.outrigger.com

Or by calling (+66) 76 336 900. Or by emailing laguna@outrigger.co.th

* All rates are subject to 18.7% service charge and VAT and are valid until 31 March 2011.

Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas
Laguna Village Residence 3, house # 116/13
Moo 6, Cherngtalay Sub- District, Talang District
Phuket 83110

Thailand
T: (+66) 76 318 230/1
F: (+66) 76 318232
E: laguna@outrigger.co.th
www.outrigger.com

Exclusive Three-Night Stay And Cruise Holiday In The Seychelles

Reef & Rainforest Tours (www.reefandrainforest.co.uk  Tel 01803 866 965) is offering a new three-night holiday in the Seychelles combining three days cruising on board Superhawk 43, the ultimate super yacht most recently seen sharing screen time with James (Quantum of Solace) Bond, with three-nights on the private island nature sanctuary of Cousine.

Day trip cruise highlights include visiting the neighbouring island of Praslin to see the virgin forests of the ‘Garden of Eden’ and Curieuse Marine Park, visiting one of the archipelago’s most beautiful islands, La Digue, with its rustic charm, old plantation house and relics left from early settlers.

Diving, snorkelling, gourmet lunches, opulent surroundings, champagne and afternoon tea are all part of daily life on board the Superhawk 43.

This super yacht has achieved movie star status due to its sleek, visually stunning exterior, not to mention an interior designed with the finest materials.

The yacht, which accommodates no more than six people, features a wet bar, ice chest, ample sunbathing space and an inflatable motorised tender giving guests access to remote beaches and romantic locations.

Meanwhile, Cousine Island, featuring only four spacious beachfront villas, is an all inclusive destination giving visitors the feeling of being a private house guest.

The island is also a haven for rare bird species such as the Seychelles magpie robin and warbler, two species of shearwater plus giant tortoises, skinks and geckos. Together with its pristine white sandy beaches this is the ideal Indian Ocean paradise.

This three-night package is priced from £5,994 per person including economy class flights on Air Seychelles and three nights at Cousine with daily cruises.

Reef & Rainforest Tours can include this itinerary within any tailor made holiday to the Seychelles.

Escape The Wintery Chills And Head For Warmer Climes This Christmas

Mulled Wine in the Maldives – Lily Beach, Maldives (www.lilybeachmaldives.com)

Wake to the gentle lapping of the Indian Ocean and the sun beaming through the curtains on Christmas Day this year. Take a dip in the cooling waters from your very own over water villa before spending the day relaxing on your private deck at the newly opened Lily Beach Resort.

Days can be spent snorkeling in the crystal clear seas, sun bathing on the white sandy beaches or indulging in spa treatments before an evening of entertainment and delicious Maldivian cuisine.
Price – Kuoni (01306 747008 or www.kuoni.co.uk ) offers 7 nights on all inclusive basis at Lily Beach Resort & Spa in a beach villa, including international flights, internal transfers and access to the VIP lounge in Male airport on departure.

Prices for 23 December 2009 from £4,086 per person based on two sharing.

Mince Pies in Marrakech – The Rocksure Collection (www.rocksurerentals.com)

Enjoy a family break closer to home whilst still enjoying warmer climes.

Explore the bustling souks and medinas of Marrakech, venture further into the mountains and discover a labyrinth of Kasbahs built by local Berbers or head off on a day’s camel trek across the desert. Staying in Rocksure’s palatial Riad on the outskirts of Marrakech, set within seven acres of manicured gardens with spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains, guests can relax this Christmas with a personal housekeeper on hand to help cook & clean – bliss!

Price – The Rocksure Collection is offering 7 nights for the price of 6 at El Goute villa in Marrakech. Subject to availability a group of up to 8 guests can rent El Goute over the Christmas period from £4,670 including a personal concierge team and a housekeeper who is available to cook up an array of delicious Moroccan cuisine.

Lunar Rainbow at the Victoria Falls – Zambia (www.zambianhorizons.com)

This year the unique Lunar Rainbow will take place on New Year’s Eve. This occurs when a full moon shines through the falls spray, creating a stunning rainbow which guests will be able to marvel at on the night from Livingstone Island. Besides this once in a lifetime experience this package also offers guests the opportunity to kick start 2010 with an adrenalin packed safari.

Combining the private island paradise of Sindabezi Island, with the beautifully designed colonial River Club guests can take part in an action packed couple of days at the Victoria Falls, before flying to the South Luangwa National Park to spend the last few nights at Norman Carr’s stylishly rustic Kapani Lodge to enjoy day and night game drives, walking safaris and canoe safaris.

Price – Audley Travel (www.audleytravel.com  / 01993 838 500) offers this 12 night Lunar Rainbow New Years package from £3,995 per person, based on two sharing at The River Club, Sindabezi Island and Kapani Lodge. and Includes International flights from London, airline taxes, all transfers, full board accommodation including all meals and drinks, a selection of activities to choose from and a trip to the Falls on New Year’ Eve.

Christmas Crackers in Kenya – Governors Camp, Kenya (www.governorscamp.com)

Take some time-out over the festive season and head to Governors’ Camp in Kenya for a laid-back Kenyan safari retreat.

The holiday begins spending 2-nights at Loldia House, a charming traditional settlers’ farm situated on the banks of Lake Naivasha.

Travellers can stroll around the 8,000 acres coming across herds of wild antelope and zebra along the way.

Day trips can also be taken to the Lake Nakuru National Park famed for its flamingo lakes and excellent viewing of Black Rhinos and even the more elusive White Rhinos.

The Christmas getaway then continues onto the intimate and tranquil Little Governors’ Camp on the Masai Mara for 4-nights.

The camp is hidden in the forest allowing the ultimate back to nature experience with warthogs, elephants and various other animals wandering freely through the grounds. 4×4 game drives across the Masai Mara offer guests the opportunity to witness the plethora of wildlife that teams these world famous plains.

Price- Aardvark Safaris (www.aardvarksafaris.com  / 01980 849 160) offers this 8-night trip to Kenya staying 2-nights at Loldia House and 4-nights at Little Governors Camp from £3,711 per person based on two sharing. Including full board accommodation, international and domestic flights, transfers and two game drives per day.

Trip valid throughout the festive period, subject to availability.

Based in South Australia (www.southaustralia.com ) in Port Lincoln, one of the world’s largest protected natural harbours, Adventure Bay Charters (www.adventurebaycharters.com.au ) offers visitors the opportunity to swim with tuna and sea lions off the Eyre Peninsula’s coast.

Family-run operator Adventure Bay Charters’ Close Up Tuna Tours promises to entertain visitors of all ages with an informative and exciting excursion to an aquaculture farm for the chance to swim with southern blue fin tuna.

Matt Waller, fourth generation fisherman, and his crew entertain passengers with their informative commentary on the short boat trip out to the farm.

Following a briefing, participants can hand-feed the southern blue fin tuna from the platform, watch them from the underwater glass viewing area, investigate the touch pool or get into the water for a swim and a closer look at these beautiful creatures.

The company’s Sea Lion Adventures tour, which also incorporates a trip to the aquaculture farm to meet the tuna, allows participants to interact with the inquisitive ‘puppy dogs of the sea’ on a half-day tour into the sheltered waters of Hopkins Island, a part of the Memory Cove Wilderness Protection Area.

The boat trip out is undertaken in comfortable forward-facing seats with the excellent chance of dolphin, seal and seabird sightings.

With the “Adventure Lady” safely anchored in the sheltered waters, passengers can go for a swim with the Australian sea lions or they can simply watch them frolicking in the waves.

Up to 40 sea lions have been known to surround the boat at any one time so interaction is guaranteed.

“Adventure Lady” is also available for private hire.

Due to an overwhelming demand, the Ohana Honolulu Airport Hotel has announced that pets are now welcome. The hotel offers a doggie welcome basket filled with treats that include rolled up sheets and face clothes, a plastic water bowl, doggie-do bags for waste pick-up, a dog biscuit and a welcome letter.

Located within the premises is the Doo Drop Inn, an enclosed grassy field transformed into a dog park.

The daily per service fee is $10 per animal (limit two pets per room). Nightly room rates start at $89.

For reservations or more information, call 800-462-6262 or visit www.ohanahotels.com