Jetsettersblog

With Optional Visits to Holiday Markets

Dolomites, Italy –The crown jewel of the Alps, Italy’s Dolomite Mountains, will be home to a pre-Holiday ski tour with optional visits to local Christmas markets. Run as a privately scheduled, pre-set 8 day/7 night itinerary for a minimum group size of four guests, departures are offered anytime from Dec. 2 to 22, 2011.

The exclusive tour is operated by Europe’s active travel leader, Dolomite Mountains

http://dolomitemountains.com/en/home.htm

an Italian company bent on proving that the adventure path reveals some of the most beautiful natural settings on earth.

The nearly all-inclusive cost per person is €2580. The trip begins in Bolzano and ends at Alta Badia.

This tour combines the Christmas markets of Bolzano and Bressanone (with an option to visit Brunico as well) along with three days of skiing on guide-led, world-class terrain.

Participants will choose from a variety of 16 routes through 12 valleys of the Dolomite chain, with runs for all levels of ability.

And because there is no set itinerary, each day guests work with their guides to select the day’s skiing. See: THIS LINK.
“Boasting some of the most incredible ski resorts in the world, the Italian Dolomites offer something for everyone, with more than 5,000 vertical feet of skiable terrain to choose from,” says Agustina Lagos-Marmol, founder of Dolomite Mountains srl.

Guests can also experience traditional Christmas markets.

“From the colorful lights and décor to local merchants peddling handcrafted, one-of-a-kind keepsakes to peaceful horse drawn carriage rides along ancient cobblestone streets, from the moment you step foot in one of these enchanting markets you’re certain to be captivated by the holiday spirit,” adds Lagos-Marmol.

She goes on to explain, “The Christmas markets of the Dolomites are rarely visited by foreigners; with this tour we’re looking to increase exposure to this truly authentic experience and let travelers explore the holiday season in the Dolomites through the eyes of its residents.”

The per person €2580 double occupancy rate includes an English-speaking UIAGM/IFMGA mountain ski guide, use of a Dolomiti Superskipass, seven nights in 4-star hotel accommodations in Bolzano and Alta Badia, four dinners, transportation and local medical and evacuation insurance.

About Dolomite Mountains srl

Dolomite Mountains srl is the only local company in the Dolomites specializing and providing unique experiences in adventure travel within one of the most beautiful natural settings on Earth. Types of trips offered include Hike, Bike, Via Ferrata, Climb, Snowshoe, Photo Safari, Ski, Self Guided and Luxury Trips.

For over 15 years they have been crafting Dolomite adventures, helping travelers uncover the region’s true spirit. Customized guided and self guided active trips and luxury and gourmet adventures take travelers off the beaten path for authentic experiences that reveal the real Dolomites.

Dolomite Mountains srl believes in the value of sharing their love of the mountains and natural places with others while also recognizing the need to take care of them if they are to be here for future generations. They employ sustainable practices in all daily operations – everything from recycling in the office to leaving only footprints while in the field. Hotels are selected that adhere to environmentally sustainable standards wherever possible including two CasaClima hotels in certain accommodation options (CasaClima is a building certification that establishes a standard for energy efficiency that follows the Kyoto Protocol and a standard for use of sustainable resources.) The company also supports several worthy organizations that contribute to the betterment of societies and their environs around the world such as SUMMITS4KIDS and The Footprints Network. See:  THIS LINK.

Imagine a cold winter day giving way to pearl-white sand beneath your feet and turquoise-blue waters glimmering in the sun. If you dream of a luxurious Caribbean holiday getaway, look no further than Peter Island Resort & Spa.

Delight in the unveiling of an enchanting Gingerbread House at Drake’s Lounge while the Old Time Christmas Carol Band plays. Relax on the famous Deadman’s Beach, or take joy in making a sandcastle just in time for a visit from Saint Nicholas. A Grand Christmas Eve buffet, overflowing with the freshest island cuisine and finest fare adds to the holiday-inspired theme. Listen to the sounds of a traditional Caribbean steel band and raise a glass to toast a spectacular fiery red and orange sunset. Keep the holiday spirit in full swing with a Christmas Day buffet in the Tradewinds Restaurant, offering a variety of carving stations plus all the trimmings; a feast Ebenezer Scrooge would even celebrate. Guests looking to walk off a few of those holiday goodies can join Peter Island’s General Manager, Wilbert Mason, on the courts for a tennis match, or on a 5K Walk to Sunset Loop. Don’t forget to take a camera to capture the gorgeous sweeping views.

For those who seek more than lavish buffets and musical entertainment, a relaxing trip to the spa just might be the perfect holiday treat. This year the Spa at Peter Island will feature a ‘What’s Under the Tree’ special. Enjoy a “Mr. and Mrs. Claus” couples massage in one of Peter Island’s beachside private bohios complete with champagne and chocolate covered strawberries or unwind with a Pumpkin Body Wrap that combines an exfoliation scrub, the power of pumpkin enzymes, and the nourishment of a body cream.

Overnight accommodations start at $1,225 (*£776) for an Oceanview Room or $1,640 (*£1,039) for a Beachfront Junior Suite, double occupancy with meals included. Guests can also opt for one of Peter Island’s secluded villas: the recently renovated Hawk’s Nest or Crow’s Nest, or the signature villa, Falcon’s Nest.

ITC Classics (01244 355 527; www.itcclassics.co.uk) has 7 nights from £4,489 per person based on 2 adults sharing an Oceanveiw Room on a full board basis, including return economy flights with British Airways from London Gatwick and inter-island flights, departing 19th December 2011.

For more information visit www.peterisland.com

The Village of Pinehurst Fall Special lets you play Pinehurst No. 1, Pinehurst No. 5, and Tobacco Road G.C. and stay at the Manor Inn for 2 nights.
This rate includes all cart fees, green fees, lodging and tax. The #5 ranked Public course in America (Tobacco Road) has been combined with the #5 Golf Resort in America (The Pinehurst Resort) to create a very special Sandhills experience. Tee times are limited and this package will go fast so inquire today! Rate is based on double occupancy.
Dates: September 1, 2011 – November 30, 2011
Price range: $426
For more information, please click here.
http://www.tobaccoroadgolf.com/golfpackages.html

New CTC website and mobile app has tips on where to go and what to do—created by travellers, for travellers.

Travel choices have just gotten a lot simpler for visitors to Canada. Explore Canada Like a Local, the Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC)’s new website and mobile app, is an innovative approach for consumers to plot their journeys and share their tips before, during and after their stays in this country.

Users can explore Canada in a number of different ways: by theme (arts & culture, city breaks, culinary, luxury and outdoors), by destination (major cities and tourism spots across Canada) or via lists (such as retail therapy in Toronto, culinary adventures in Montréal or sunset and the seawall in Stanley Park.) Each spot has text, imagery and a map to help visitors navigate their way around and plan their days. Explore Canada like a local also pulls in location data via Foursquare, including user reviews and number of check-ins at any given spot.

Explore Canada Like a Local users can look at other people’s lists or create their own, which can be shared either through the site or their own social networks. An app for Google Android smartphones and Apple iPhones means users can access and update the lists wherever they are on their travels. Users can also search for spots of interest, led by places with the most check-ins near to the user’s location.

Explore Canada Like a Local is built on user-generated content and all the great spots and tips from CTC’s domestic LOCALS KNOW campaigns. The first launch came in the US, and will be followed by staged roll-outs during the rest of 2011 in the UK, France, Germany, Mexico and Australia.

“Explore Canada Like a Local has traveller-to-traveller authenticity as potential visitors find out about Canadian experiences from other travellers as well as locals,” says Gloria Loree, CTC executive director, Global Communications. “This new site will also mean that those travellers in Canada will serve as real-life advocates for our tourism brand.”

Los Angeles area chefs and restaurateurs are gearing up for another two weeks of mouth-watering meals and incredible deals during the biannual dineLA Restaurant Week, Oct. 2-7 and Oct. 9-14. During the two consecutive weeks, residents and visitors will have the opportunity to indulge in specially priced three-course menus for lunch or dinner at more than 300 of LA’s best restaurants.

In 2011, American Express is offering a special credit to Cardmembers who sync their American Express Card with foursquare. Participants can check in on foursquare at any participating dineLA restaurant and receive a $5 statement credit when they purchase at least $21 on their synced American Express Card. The offer may only be redeemed once per location, and registration is limited, so Cardmembers are encouraged to register early.

The 2011 list features an incredible array of 307 local establishments and the city’s newest rising stars, providing the perfect reason for food lovers to enjoy dineLA together with the company of friends and family. Angelenos can revisit favorites like Drago, JiRaffe, and Casa Vega while also experiencing applauded newcomers such as Fig & Olive, Picca, and Scarpetta Beverly Hills. With participating restaurants spanning the city, dineLA Fall 2011 Restaurant Week offers a range of dining options and price points to satisfy every palate throughout the City of Angels.

Save the date for Winter 2012 dineLA Restaurant Week, Jan. 22 – 27 and Jan. 29 – Feb. 3, 2012.
http://sync.americanexpress.com/foursquare
www.dineLARestaurantWeek.com

It’s never too early to think about holiday shopping – especially in Los Angeles, where celebrity-centric shopping centers celebrate with glitter, glamour and retail abundance. Stylish Santa Monica Place (anchored by Bloomingdales and Nordstrom) makes merry, Nov. 20 – Dec. 24, with festivities including photos with Santa; a pet-photo night; breakfast with Santa, Dec. 3 and Dec. 10, and cookie-making classes with Mrs. Claus at Gourmandise School of Sweets & Savory at The Market.

Shoppers at the trendy Beverly Center in West LA are immersed in a winter wonderland inside the Ice Palace, Nov. 21 – Dec. 24. Inspired by the magic of snow globes, the Ice Palace appears to be carved from ice and features a soaring 22-foot dome, encircled with majestic arches and smaller globes. Visitors can enjoy a dazzling snow and light show inside the largest dome.

Holiday thrills begin Nov. 13 at The Grove in West LA, with a holiday treelighting accompanied by fireworks, celebrities and Santa, who’s in residence through Dec. 24. On Nov. 14, snow begins falling nightly and the fountains dance to holiday music. Look for Pet Nights with Santa in November and December, and carolers, musical ensembles and costumed holiday characters through Dec. 24. Next door, holiday finery decorates LA’s original Farmers Market, Dec. 17 – 24 – a popular location for seasonal gift baskets. Choose from handmade confections at Littlejohn’s English Toffee House, high quality nuts sold by the pound and gift-wrapped at Magee’s House of Nuts or custom baskets filled with fine wines, cheeses and gourmet deli delights at Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market.

The Americana at Brand in Glendale spreads good cheer with a 100-foot-tall Christmas tree, Santa’s House, strolling carolers, musical ensembles, holiday characters and nightly snow falls, Nov. 18 – Dec. 24. Festivities include the Holiday tree lighting Nov. 17, accompanied by fireworks and Santa’s arrival, and brunch with Santa, Dec. 10 and 17.

Get a jump on shopping at the Citadel Outlets, LA’s only outlet mall, at its Moonlight Madness Sale held from 10 p.m. on Nov. 24 (Thanksgiving eve) through 10 p.m. Nov. 25. Specials include discounts of up to 50 percent off, and buy-one-get-one-free deals, at many of the 115 designer and name brand shops. Pick up a free Preferred Customer Card at the service counter for added savings. Special holiday valet parking is $5.

On September 25, Los Angeles officially welcomes IRIS, a Journey through the World of Cinema, the first-ever, dedicated Cirque du Soleil® show in Los Angeles. Created exclusively for the Kodak Theatre, IRIS offers a new take on the art of cinema as only Cirque du Soleil® could imagine it. By combining dance, acrobatics, live video, film footage and interactive projections, the show illustrates both the mechanics of cinema and its extraordinary power to deceive the eye.

The show’s two young heroes – Buster and Scarlett – find themselves plunged into the joyful chaos of a film set, and their escapades are supported by an orchestral score composed by Grammy Award-winner Danny Elfman. IRIS is written and directed by French stage and film director, artistic director, dancer and choreographer Philippe Decouflé, who created the opening and closing ceremonies of the 1992 Albertville Olympic Games.

Tickets range from $43 to $133 (VIP tickets are available at $253). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 1-877-943-IRIS. For parties of 12 or more, contact Cirque du Soleil® group sales by calling 877-504-7164.
www.cirquedusoleil.com/IRIS

Boston, Massachusetts – There is something to be said for couples who take the time to appreciate one another. Fairmont Battery Wharf, located on the Boston waterfront in the city’s historic North End, can set the stage for a romantic and relaxing weekend. Bask in a romantic weekend with waterfront strolls, a romantic dinner or time at the spa.

For those interested in popping the question, Fairmont Battery Wharf offers Proposal on the Harbor Package. This package includes overnight accommodations on Fairmont Gold and a “pure manicure” at Exhale Battery Wharf. A bottle of chilled Champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, and a rose petal turn down service complete the romantic setting. This package is available through December 30, 2011, and rates start at $359.

Whether it’s a celebratory weekend or just a quick getaway, a weekend alone with your special someone is something to celebrate. Fairmont Battery Wharf wants to help make the most of your time together with its Gold Rush Getaway. This package includes overnight accommodations in one of the hotel’s luxurious Fairmont Gold guestrooms, a $100.00 Food and Beverage Credit for a romantic dinner, a “Sweet Dreams” buffet in the Fairmont Gold Lounge featuring authentically local desserts, and a complimentary breakfast for two in the Private Gold Lounge. This package is available year round, and rates start at $459.

For guests who want to plan their own romantic weekend of Harbor side walks, North End strolls, intimate dinners or luxurious spa treatments, Fairmont Battery Wharf offers its Bed & Breakfast Package. This package includes overnight accommodations and breakfast for two. This offer is available through December 30, 2011, and rates start at $249.

For reservations or more information, please call (800) 441-1414 or visit www.fairmont.com/batterywharf.  All packages are based on availability and exclusive of tax and gratuity.

The Saxon Boutique, Hotel, Villas and Spa has been named “Africa’s Leading Boutique Hotel, “South Africa’s Leading Boutique Hotel” and “Africa’s Leading Suite” at this year’s World Travel Awards Africa.

This announcement was made this weekend at a gala function in the Great Hall of Egypt at Soho Square, in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt.

In addition, the Hotel’s Private Game Reserve, Shambala, won the Award for “Best Luxury Lodge” in Africa.

“We are so incredibly proud of these awards,” says Saxon and Shambala managing director, Mr George Cohen. “To have not one, but two properties win in their respective categories is more than we could have hoped for. When globally occupancies are still low, it’s a testament to our hard-working staff that in these trying times, we can still pull out all the stops for our guests.”
The World Travel Awards is recognised globally by the travel, tourism and hospitality industry as the foremost recognition and acknowledgement of excellence in product and service worldwide. For more information on The Saxon Boutique Hotel, Villas and Spa please log on to www.saxon.co.za and for information on Shambala Private Game Reserve, please log on to www.shambalagamereserve.com

With over 35 years of experience, African Travel Inc. at www.africantravelinc.com  can plan all aspects of your travel adventures, including the Saxon Hotel and Spa, or contact your travel agent. Read the Jetsetters Magazine feature about the Saxon Hotel and Spa.

New package showcases the best of Kennebunkport cuisine

KENNEBUNKPORT, ME – The Kennebunkport Resort Collection (KRC) invites food lovers to sample southern Maine’s fresh, seasonal cuisine during the brilliant fall foliage season, with the new Food Lover’s Getaway package.

Drawing from Kennebunkport’s growing reputation for culinary excellence, the package highlights Earth, the recently opened restaurant of James Beard award winner Ken Oringer, and The Tides Beach Club’s new restaurant overlooking Goose Rocks Beach among a number of other local favorites.

The Food Lover’s Getaway package, available through Oct. 31st, includes:

§ Three nights of accommodation at any KRC property; Hidden Pond, The Tides Beach Club, The Cottages at Cabot Cove, The Kennebunkport Inn, or Old Fort Inn

§ Dinner at a different restaurant each night- Earth at Hidden, The Tides Beach Club and One Dock at The Kennebunkport Inn

§ Two hour sail on the Schooner Eleanor with a “snack pack” and wine for the trip

§ Signature Maine Whoopie Pie upon arrival

Prices start at:

The Kennebunkport Inn- $1,125
The Cottages at Cabot Cove- $1,415
Old Fort Inn- $1,224
The Tides Beach Club- $1,305
Hidden Pond (one bedroom bungalows)- $1,864

A collaboration with award-winning Boston chef and restaurateur Ken Oringer, Earth’s menu focuses on “farm to fork” produce featuring vegetables and herbs picked from Hidden Pond’s on-site 800-square foot organic Farm along with freshly caught seafood and meats sourced from local purveyors.

Classic New England comfort food with a contemporary approach take center stage at Kennebunkport’s restaurant at The Tides Beach Club, which opened following a transformation from a Victorian grand dame hotel into a casually elegant beach-style boutique property. A vibrant social scene, lively music and an unmatched view overlooking pristine Goose Rocks Beach adds to the “seaside chic” ambiance. One Dock at The Kennebunkport Inn boasts a prime location in the center of Dock Square, with a fusion inspired menu serving classic Maine favorites with a creative flair.

Guests will receive a “must eat” list for Kennebunkport upon check-in: Moose Tracks ice cream at Aunt Marie’s; “Dirty” wings at the Pilot House; Blue Cheese Mussels at One Dock; Lobster Roll at the Clam Shack; to name a few.

For more information about the Food Lover’s Getaway package visit www.kennebunkportresortcollection.com.

About Kennebunkport Resort Collection:

The Kennebunkport Resort Collection represents diverse luxury and upscale properties such as Hidden Pond, one of the finest luxury boutique hotels in the Northeast; the Kennebunkport Inn, a classic New England inn centrally located in downtown Kennebunkport; the Cottages at Cabot Cove, featuring individually designed waterfront luxury cottages; The Tides Beach Club, Southern Maine’s only beachfront luxury boutique hotel, and Old Fort Inn & Resort, a grand summer estate in nearby Cape Arundel. The Kennebunkport Resort Collection also owns and manages a number of notable restaurants and catering venues in the area. Restaurants in the Kennebunkport Resort Collection – Earth at Hidden Pond, One Dock at the Kennebunkport Inn, and The Tides Beach Club – provide exciting, extraordinary dining experiences, each unique in design, and culinary inspiration. Visit www.kennebunkportresortcollection.com  for more information.