Jetsettersblog

AT THE MIYAKO HYBRID HOTEL  in Torrance, California

Bedrock baths made with ore mined from the mountains of Kyushu, Japan provide the basis for this unique energy treatment

 Spa goers can get a taste of Japan when spaRelaken at the Miyako Hybrid Hotel opens June 27, 2010.

The spa company’s first United States location, it is also the first spa in the U.S. to feature the SGE ganban-yoku (or “bedrock bath”) treatment—a specialty of Japanese bathing culture that involves lying on a large bed comprised of ore mined from the mountains of Kyushu, Japan, known as “Super Growth Energy” stone.

Guests recline on one of the spa’s eight stone beds, which are placed low to the ground and located in a sauna-like steam room. When heated, the stones emit infrared rays as well as negative ions, which help heat the body, as well as restoring cells and encouraging beneficial detoxification through perspiration.

The overall effect is one of refreshment and relaxation, as well as improved circulation and metabolism—a sense of healing from the inside out.

Modeled after traditional Japanese spas and encompassing nearly 5,000 square feet adjacent to the lobby of the Miyako Hybrid Hotel, spaRelaken is open to hotel guests as well as day visitors.

The spa features four treatment rooms, including one for couples’ treatments; separate areas for men and women to enjoy the dry sauna and deep Jacuzzi baths; and offers customized body treatments that are designed by the staff after consulting about the needs of guests on the day of their visit. Spa entry for use of the whirlpool bath, dry sauna, and ganban-yoku is $45. Bath and sauna only is $35.

THE EXPERIENCE

spaRelaken features Japanese-inspired spa therapies, including signature Shiatsu massage services, reflexology, aroma body treatments, facials, and more.

Treatments at the spa begin with a personal consultation so that the staff can help customize the guest’s experience to meet her or his needs that day. spaRelaken’s “omotenashi hospitality” concept encompasses the recovery of mental and physical health by multisensory relaxation—from the sound of flowing water to the smell and taste of herbal teas.

The Japanese believe that the spa experience benefits the whole body and all five senses.

Upon entering spaRelaken, guests remove their shoes and are offered a hot towel to refresh themselves.

After a consultation to discuss their treatment(s) for the day, guests can then visit the sauna or whirlpool bath before entering the ganban-yoku room.

Throughout their experience, a separate healing room is available for guests to rest and rejuvenate as often as they please.

The spa also offers guests its own product line of shampoo, body soap, and herbal balls. Every detail, from the naturals oils to the use of organic towels and sheets are meticulously tailored to provide healing for the mind and body.

Among the treatments and amenities spaRelaken offers are:

• Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage, Japanese Shiatsu Massage and Reflexology

• Aromatherapy, including Natural, Balinese Aroma, and Herbal Ball treatments

• Reiki

• Facials

• Spa Club, allowing discounted entry for guests to enjoy spa amenities if they are not also booking a body treatment

• Use of saunas and deep whirlpool baths

DESIGN

ASC Group established by Akemi Yamamoto, designed spaRelaken as an inviting, elegant space that conveys the feeling of serenity and brings elements of the natural world indoors. Wood floors are complemented by muted earth tones of browns, beiges, and oranges to further promote a sense of calm and healing.

In addition to its work on spaRelaken, ASC designed over 40 relaxation facilities including SGE ganban-yoku in Japan.

SPA PACKAGES

The following introductory packages are available beginning June 27, 2010:

Experience Japan Package

Accommodation for one night in a deluxe room
Three-course dinner prepared by the chef at Gonpachi
Sake tasting
East-West Breakfast Buffet (featuring over 40 Japanese and American breakfast items and made-to-order dishes)
Spa entry, which includes whirlpool bath, sauna, and ganban-yoku experience
$160 plus tax per person based on double occupancy (single rate is $219 plus tax) Must be booked in advance. Based on availability.

Spa Package

Accommodation for one night a deluxe room
East-West Breakfast buffet (featuring over 40 Japanese and American breakfast items and made-to-order dishes)
Spa Entry, which includes whirlpool bath, sauna, and ganban-yoku experience
$179.00 plus tax for single or $209 plus tax for two
Must be booked in advance. Based on availability.

LOCATION AND HOURS OF OPERATION

spaRelaken is located at the Miyako Hybrid Hotel at 21381 S. Western Ave. in Torrance, CA, approximately three miles from the Pacific Ocean, 15 minutes south of LAX, and 25 minutes from downtown L.A. The spa is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. To schedule an appointment, please call 310.212.6408.

For more information on spaRelaken and the Miyako Hybrid Hotel, please visit www.rirakuen.com  or www.miyakohybridhotel.com

The Plaza, in New York City, announced the new Business Butler Program, available year-round and is offered for stays on Sunday through Thursdays only.

Rates start at $613 per night in a Rose Suite, based on double occupancy, and include 30 percent savings in a suite; 24-hour white-glove butler service; one complimentary full American breakfast daily in The Palm Court; 20 percent savings when entertaining clients in The Palm Court, The Rose Club, and The Champagne Bar; one complimentary suit pressing per stay; and complimentary daily local newspaper.

Additional complimentary inclusions will also be extended to Fairmont President’s Club members, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts’ exclusive guest recognition program, including complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access and local phone calls, and the use of Fairmont Fit, the on-site fitness program that provides business travelers with Adidas workout apparel and shoes, a MP3 player, and a yoga mat with stretch band.

Business travelers can stay fit on the road without the hassle of packing work-out gear. Guests can also obtain a runner’s map of New York’s Central Park.
The Plaza also offers Event Concierge’s on-hand for all meetings and events ensuring that each meeting is flawless from start-to-finish. For more information, call 888-240-7775 or visit www.ThePlaza.com  or www.fairmont.com/theplaza

Titanic history lecturers added to events on board the Titanic Memorial Cruise, April 2012

With less than two years to go until the Titanic Memorial Cruise departs, Miles Morgan continues to add details that will ensure that the cruise is a remarkable experience for all Titanic enthusiasts.

Two well-known lecturers have recently announced they will join the educational lecturer series on board the memorial cruise. Charles A. Haas and John P. Eaton have co-authored five books: Titanic: Triumph and Tragedy; Titanic: Destination Disaster; Falling Star: Misadventures of White Star Line Ships; Titanic: A Journey Through Time; and Titanic: The Exhibition.

Mr. Haas and Mr. Eaton are co-founders of the Titanic International Society, Inc., a non-profit historical organization based in New Jersey that was founded in 1989 to preserve the memory and history of the Titanic, and those who sailed aboard her maiden and last voyage.

Both men have an extraordinary knowledge of the history of the Titanic and are sure to give informative and enlightening presentations.

The 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic is to be marked in April 2012 with a once-in-a-lifetime cruise experience following the ship’s original route in 1912.

Passengers will enjoy an entirely Titanic-themed cruise.

Managing Director Miles Morgan of Miles Morgan Travel, who has chartered Fred Olsen’s Balmoral for the historic voyage, said, “The whole voyage will be steeped in Titanic history. The food served will match the sumptuous menus on the original voyage; the entertainment will include music and dancing in the style featured in those glorious times; and there will be a chance to hear first-hand from historians who have studied the Titanic story – it promises to be a truly memorable cruise.”

Miles Morgan has appointed Minneapolis-based Borton Overseas to coordinate reservations in the US for the Titanic Memorial Cruise. Borton Overseas coordinates Fred. Olsen’s US operations, which makes the partnership a perfect fit. Several cabin categories are already sold out.

Interested cruisers should call Borton Overseas for cabin availability and pricing at 1-800-843-0602 or visit the website for more information at www.bortonoverseas.com

From Beautiful Beaches and Luxury Resorts to World Class Spas, and Fine Dining, Puerto Vallarta Displays its Romantic Charms in the Most Authentic Mexican Setting

With a baby on its way, more and more couples are looking to escape on a romantic getaway to relax and spend some quality time together, before the sleepless nights that usually accompany a newborn.

Puerto Vallarta, one of the most charming and authentic resort towns on the Mexican Riviera, boasts beautiful beaches, secluded romantic coves, soft adventure, luxury resorts, enchanting boutique hotels, world class spas, and internationally acclaimed restaurants for that perfect passionate escape.

Puerto Vallarta’s beautiful beaches provide the ideal setting to bask in the sun while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean.

Babymooners can relax and reconnect at Las Caletas, Puerto Vallarta’s exclusive tropical beach hideaway. Nestled in a secluded nature preserve on the southern shores of Banderas Bay and only accessible by sea, Las Caletas was once the private home of film director John Huston.

Here, moms-to-be can get pampered at the spa center, while the future dads can snorkel, kayak or scuba dive in the calm, clear waters of Las Caletas.

With light outdoor activities, such as bird watching and nature walks, Las Caletas is the perfect destination that combines relaxation and open air activities.

Puerto Vallarta has plenty of accommodation options from all-inclusive resorts to exclusive boutique hotels and private villas.

Numerous properties have spas, swimming pools, tennis courts, and even themed evenings and diners designed to keep the guests entertained. Some hotels and spas feature special packages and programs specially designed for babymooners.

The Westin Resort and Spa features a special package for babymooners, which includes a prenatal massage for the moms-to-be in the serenity of their guest room.

OHTLI Spa, which is part of the Marriott CasaMagna Puerto Vallarta Resort specializes in exclusive treatments that combine ancient healing techniques and shamanistic rituals from the area’s Huichol Indians.

OHTLI features a 50- minute long massage for future moms with natural remedies that balance the body’s energy.

Numerous other spas throughout the destination also offer pre-natal massages.

Future dads who prefer to skip the spa and try their hand at golf instead, can test their skills at Vista Vallarta with Puerto Vallarta’s most exciting golf games at their signature 18-hole par-72 courses by Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf, and home to PGA tournaments.

The conveniently located 18-hole Marina Vallarta golf course, designed by Joe Finger provides a more intimate environment for a quick game in a lush tropical setting. Golf Digest Magazine rated Marina Vallarta one of the top places to play in 2008-2009.

Babymooners can enjoy leisurely strolls along the quaint cobble-stoned streets in old town Puerto Vallarta and the colorful Malecón (boardwalk) discovering the town’s eclectic collection of public art, created by some of the area’s highly acclaimed artists.

Downtown Puerto Vallarta’s white-walled houses, wrought-iron balconies and red-tiled roofs are home to most of the town’s finest gastronomy, arts and crafts markets as well as designer boutiques.

Visitors to Puerto Vallarta are mesmerized by the inspiring sunsets over Banderas Bay.

What better way for the future parents to begin a romantic evening than to go on a sunset cruise in the sparkling waters of the Pacific?

Numerous companies offer special sunset excursions that include wine and cheese tasting.

Puerto Vallarta’s fine dining scene is sure to impress the most sophisticated couples with a wide array of memorable restaurants set in the most romantic locations whether on the beach, a charming garden, or perched atop a hill with sweeping vistas of the city and Banderas Bay.

Puerto Vallarta is home to eight establishments awarded with the Five Star Diamond Award from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences where chefs, inspired by the area’s natural beauty, create an exciting amalgam of flavors that blend traditional Mexican ingredients with contemporary tastes from around the globe.

After dinner, head to the Puerto Vallarta Theater for a performance of the resident production Fandango, a celebration of Mexico’s past, present and future through dance, music and visual arts. www.teatrovallarta.com.

Couples can also discover the region’s culture by exploring the diverse surroundings of Puerto Vallarta. Day-trips range from a visit to San Andres Coamihata for a cultural encounter with the Huichol indigenous community, or a visit to San Sebastian, whose remote location in the Sierra Madre Mountains has made it one of Mexico’s last great getaways, for a flavor of 18th century colonial Mexico.

Couples will delight in Puerto Vallarta’s alternative shopping options, where they’re most likely to find the most original objects to complement the new baby’s nursery.

The shopping options here range from traditional arts and crafts fairs to intimate boutiques selling world-class art, hand crafted furniture and home items, creative silver jewelry, exquisite stained glass, Mexican pottery, and romantic fashions, all crafted by local artisans and designers.

Puerto Vallarta is also home to some of the most trend-setting art galleries in Mexico.

Additional information on Puerto Vallarta is available at www.visitpuertovallarta.com

First of its kind, iPhone app educating people about beach safety
Rips and currents are the number one hazard on beaches and are the cause of most rescues and many drownings a year.

So the creators of www.mysurfworld.com have just brought out the only iPhone application of its kind educating people around the world about beach safety.

This application provides information about rips, currents, stingers and even sharks.

With everything you need to know about rips and currents, there is now no excuse to get caught in a rip ever again whilst swimming at the beach.

Majority of the people that go to the beach have no idea of the purpose and function of rips and not to mention, why we must have them. Not to worry, all of your questions regarding Rips are answered in this one and only iPhone application.

What you will learn from this application about rips and currents :

- What a rip and a current
- How they are formed
- Why do they exist
- How to identify rips
- How to survive and stay in control
- Why are they dangerous
- Commonly located

The application also provides vital information regarding treatment of jellyfish and blue bottle stings.

Along with facts about sharks and their behaviors and what signs may indicate that a shark could be present and also what may attract sharks.

When majority of people go to the beach they are more than likely to take there mobile phone incase of emergency.

By having this application on your iPhone or iPod you will be able to have all of the information in the palm of your hand allowing you to identify the dangers which may be in front of you before entering the water.

At the moment the first release is only available in English but www.mysurfworld.com are working on localizing the application so it is available in French, Portuguese, Japanese, Italian and German.

The application is now available in the iTunes store.

www.mysurfworld.com

Tropical North Queensland’s iconic Kuranda Scenic Railway has reopened and is now operating full return services from Cairns to Kuranda.

A landslip in March forced Queensland Rail to suspend services but it’s now full steam ahead for the famous railway.

The Kuranda Scenic Railway service offers visitors unsurpassed views of dense rainforest, steep ravines and picturesque waterfalls as they enjoy the one hour and 45 minute journey from Cairns to the rainforest village.

The Kuranda Scenic Railway can be joined at Cairns Railway Station or Freshwater Connection for morning departures to Kuranda. Journeys from Kuranda Station to Cairns run in the afternoon. Tickets on the service are available from the Kuranda Scenic Rail booking office or Tourism Tropical North Queensland’s travel partners.

At Freshwater Station, visitors can learn about the construction of the railway at the historical railway museum, visit a genuine railway worker’s cottage and experience a hearty colonial breakfast in the restaurant which features permanently placed 85 year old carriages.

There are plenty of attractions in Kuranda for a day trip or extended stay including the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, the Kuranda Heritage Markets and a range of art galleries and cafes.

Visitors can also complement their rail journey with a trip on Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. www.ksr.com.au

Get ready to taste a rare steak, well done with Moo Moo The Wine Bar + Grill Brisbane opening its doors.

The team behind the Gold Coast’s award-winning Moo Moo The Wine Bar + Grill are opening a second restaurant in the historic Port Office Building at the Stamford Plaza Brisbane Hotel following a multi-million dollar refurbishment. Moo Moo will feature a selection of Australia’s finest beef including grass fed, grain fed and organic, a chic bar and first-class service. Former Siggi’s Restaurant Executive Chef Phillip Foote will take the reins bringing more than 15 years’ experience to Moo Moo.

The original Moo Moo was named Gold Coast Best Steak Restaurant in 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009. www.moomoorestaurant.com

Whitsunday Rent A Yacht, one of the operators hardest hit by Cyclone Ului earlier this year, is definitely back on deck welcoming a new 40 foot catamaran to its fleet.

The French Beneteau Lagoon 400, among only a handful of its kind in Australia, will be available for charter from June 21.

The vessel offers spacious and affordable accommodation for eight people, a saloon design, the latest entertainment equipment and is ideal for couples as each cabin contains its own ensuite and toilet.

Whitsunday Rent A Yacht has the largest fleet of sailing yachts, motor yachts and catamarans in the region and specialises in bareboat or skipper yourself charter holidays.

Explore sundrenched islands at your leisure, drop anchor in secluded island coves, set foot on untouched pristine white sandy beaches, and discover vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Whitsunday Rent A Yacht also offers a range of additional services including food and beverage packages, scuba dive gear, airport transfers and vessel delivery and pick up from islands.

www.rentayacht.com.au

It’s absolute paradise: powder white sand, rolling surf, the intoxicating scent of the lush tropics and full-body massages designed to knead away every last stress knot. “It sounds like Heaven, but it’s still on Earth – it’s called Surf Haven Bali!” says founder of the boutique women’s surf retreat, Janine Hall. “If you’re feeling burned out from the hectic pace of modern life, all you need is a week at our Balinese retreat to recharge your batteries.”

A luxury surf spa retreat for women in Bali, the week-long wellbeing programs are designed specifically for women who want to take time out for themselves. Set in stunning Seminyak, Bali, the program includes surf lessons, yoga, spa treatments and nutritious cuisine designed to leave guests feeling revived and renewed. “Roughing it is not part of our program, it’s luxury all the way” says Janine.

“It’s a gorgeous, relaxing space to take time out, meet other like-minded women from around the world and have the adventure of a lifetime.”

Guest numbers are limited to 8 women and a butler is on-hand to cater to their needs 24/7. “We go to great lengths to personalise our service as we understand that everyone has different needs and wishes,” says Janine. “We want to make sure that you curl up with your favourite magazine, relax to the music you love and indulge in the food you desire while you’re here.”

Both of the contemporary luxury four-bedroom villas in the resort are equipped with smart mod cons (Bose iPod speakers, large flat-screen TV and safety deposit boxes) and the generous ensuites are fitted with stunning modern granite and handcarved antique Javanese mirrors.

“All the bathroom furniture is made from old recycled teak, chosen both for its incredible natural beauty but also because it’s a perfect fit for our ecoconscious set-up,” says Janine.

As well as being kind to the environment, Janine is also committed to helping thelocal community through charity programs. “Our charity program is called 5 percent For Change. We donate 5 per cent of our profits to two Balinese charities – The Bali Orphanage and Bali Animal Welfare Organisation.” Guests have the opportunity to visit the charities and take part in volunteer work if they wish.

Nestled in its own private tropical oasis, the lush grounds of Surf Haven Bali offer a serene spot to relax but are within easy reach of Bali’s bustling shops, restaurants and bars.

“Guests generally find it hard to tear themselves away from Surf Haven Bali, particularly at meal times,” says Janine. “Our menu was designed by renowned therapeutic chef and nutritionist Samantha Gowing of Food Health Wealth, so your tastebuds are as well catered for as your nutritional needs.”

Don’t miss the Citrus Polenta Pancakes drizzled with Honey Saffron Yoghurt, the Spicy Fish Satay with Balinese Sambal (if you’re partial to a curry with kick) and the indulgent sticky black rice with coconut ice-cream (sweet tooths will rejoice!).

A favourite post-surf pick-up for guests is the ultimate Surf Haven Smoothie packed with fresh coconut, banana, berries, ginger and a dash of local vanilla. “The menu reflects the essence of your stay at Surf Haven Bali,” says Janine. “It’s healthy indulgence for your body and soul.”

ABOUT OWNER JANINE HALL

Janine Hall knows what it’s like to hit point break in a demanding executive role. “My fashion executive role took me around the world but eventually I burned out. All I wanted was to get away from it all and concentrate on getting healthy again by doing the things I loved – surfing, yoga and eating good nutritional food.”

Janine’s quest to find the perfect personal retreat began her new journey setting up Surf Haven Bali. “The time was right to move onto the next chapter and combine my career skills with my other life passions – coaching,surfing, yoga and wellbeing.”

That instigated the birth of Surf Haven Bali, a boutique surf retreat that combines luxury living with a whole lot of soul.

“I believe that when women surf together something powerful happens – they awaken to their true self, develop inner confidence, strength and friendship,” says Hall.

“Surfing is a great way to help us let go of our worries and concerns,giving us a better perspective and bringing inner peace and harmony.”

A week of yoga, spa treatments, surf and sensational food is certainly an incredible way to rekindle your zest for life.“Come and experience it for yourself! There’s nothing like it.”

Stylish and ultra-modern apartment-style accommodation, “Clouds Silver Lining” is now open for business at Beechmont in the Gold Coast hinterland.

Located 40 minutes from the Gold Coast and one hour from Brisbane on the Beechmont Plateau, the three bedroom fully self-contained apartment offers expansive views across the Lamington National Park and the Numbinbah Valley.

Clouds Silver Lining features accommodation for six people in two queen size bedrooms and one king size day bed, leather-upholstered lounge, modern fittings, mini-media room, traditional cedar-lined sauna and dining table with seating for eight.

Children and pets are welcome and guests have access to an organic vegetable garden.

An external spa is also under construction. Rates start from $200 per night mid-week and $900 per week during off-peak season.

Clouds Silver Lining is the latest offering in a collection which includes the Clouds at Beechmont country cottage and the old-world charm of Old Saint John’s Church.

www.cloudsonbeechmont.com.au