Jetsettersblog

Elegant Destinations Ltd has recently released the Top Ten Things to do in Mauritius. Mauritius is the Indian Ocean’s popular family destinations. The island is famous for its powder white sand beaches – but there’s much more than meets the eye, so after a swim in the turquoise crystal waters, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in Mauritius. Here are Top Ten Things to Do in Mauritius with tips from Elegant Destinations local office.

1. Experience the best Surfing spots during your stay on the island. The most easily accessible surf spots are found mainly along the south west coast where surfing conditions are best during the months of May to October. The legendary and most accessible surfing spots of Mauritius are the Tamarin Bay and Le Morne point, both along the South-West coast. Tamarin Bay was well known in the late 60’s among the hippy surfers, namely Australians for its ideal wave. Le Morne also offers lefts and rights as One Eye and La Prairie spots are on each side of a pass. Le Morne spots may not often offer the ideal waves like in Tamarin but has the great advantage of being moderate to big almost all year round; at least during 2 to 3 hours of the day.

2. Discover Mauritius colourful marine life by submarine. The Blue Safari Submarine is the only operator of real submarines in the Indian Ocean. At 35m depth, your dream comes true as you discover the magic of the marine life. You will enjoy a rare and unforgettable experience, travelling in total security and comfort on board very sophisticated, air conditioned submarines. During your dive, amongst multi-coloured fish, you will discover the beauty of the corals. Viewing the wreck of the ‘Star Hope’ and its numerous inhabitants, is always a magical moment. A unique adventure which should not be missed.

3. Visit the beautiful capital of Port Louis which received the status of city in 1964. The famous Port Louis central market is the ideal place to buy spices and is famed for its local handicrafts, shops and boutiques. After the shopping, have a stroll in the Chinatown of old Port-Louis where the atmosphere is really different. The eldest inhabitants of the Port-Louis Chinatown still dress the Chinese way and have kept their deep Chinese customs. The heat and strong aromas of the spices of the Chinese cuisine, will give you an impression of mainland China. In the afternoon visit the Caudan Waterfront with its cafes and shops.

4. A half day tour to the Adventurous South should not be missed. Visit the famous Seven Coloured Earth at Chamarel. Start off early as sunrise is the best time to see the Coloured Earths. Geologists are still intrigued by the rolling dunes of multi-coloured lunar-like landscape. The colours are red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple and yellow and the soil never erodes in spite of torrential tropical downpours. This phenomenon has never been fully explained but it is believed the soil is composed of various mineral rich volcanic ash. The ride to and from Chamarel is magnificent with stunning views across the Le Morne bay.

5. Enjoy Mauritius fine cuisine: Mauritius is a mix of cultures and cuisines. The Mauritius food has its origins from three main continents Africa, India and Asia. Eating in Mauritius is a real delight. The much loved dish for all Mauritians is the Creole curry which is a quite spicy and hot. The curry can be made of fish, chicken or beef and its served with white rice and lentils. In local restaurants you can also try the Chinese cuisine which is varied and very reasonable. All restaurants on the island offer fresh fish dishes and you can enjoy fresh fish, sea urchins, prawns, lobsters and oysters.

6. Big Game Fishing in the tropical water of Mauritius should not be missed. Mauritius hosts every year the world class competition The Marlin World Cup and anglers come to take part from all parts of the globe. Big game fishing is practiced throughout the year in Mauritius although the best season for marlin is from October to April. Mauritius is a real deep-sea fishing paradise. You can try your luck with blue marlins, black marlins, sharks, yellow-fin tunas, skipjack tunas, sailfish, wahoos, and barracudas. These predators feed close to the island where the sea bed falls up to a depth of 4000 m. The smaller boats that we use can be shared by up to three anglers and they have one fighting chair in the stern and outriggers to troll five baits at a time.

7. Enjoy a relaxing full day cruise of the northern islands on the catamaran with a barbecue lunch. After one hour of easy cruising you will discover the magic of Gabriel Island, a Mauritius protected nature reserve with pristine white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, a beautiful coral garden, rich birdlife and spectacular coastal scenery. On the Island you enjoy a beach barbecue overlooking the sea. In the afternoon you can take a 45-minute hike around the island on the coast path where you can enjoy the stunning views and activities of the tropical birds. You may also snorkel or kayak in the lagoon, treat yourself to a beach-side massage, or simply laze in the sun on the beautiful sandbar that Gabriel Island is best known for. An unforgettable experience!

8. Diving in Mauritius. Attractive dive sites can be found all around the island. Courses are offered all around the island and depending on the diving-centres, courses in PADI, CMAS or NAUI are offered.
The North coast offers particularly attractive diving at Whale Rock which is famous for the huge rocks, sea fan, huge stone corals, sometimes hammerhead sharks and other different species of fish. Flat Island, which is renowned for its ‘Shark pit’ shark dive and the Silver star wreck where an old fishing boat sank in 1990. Grand Bay and Pereybere offer about 6 diving sites along the coast ranging in depth from 11-18m.
The East coast is famous for its beautiful beaches and magnificent lagoons bordering the coasts and is scattered with many channels that allow easy access to the open sea. There is one nice dive into the current of the Belle Mare lagoon (12-30m). There are sharks, rays, barracuda, tuna fish and kingfish.
The South East Coast allows divers to swim in caves, canyons, arches, tunnels and peaks. The interesting diving sites are Roche Zozo, Colorado and the historical wreckage of the Sirius, which was sunk in 1810 during the naval battle of Grand Port between the British and French.

9. A first in Mauritius. Walking with lions and cheetah!
The first “Lion Encounter” takes place at the Casela Nature & Leisure Park. The team with experience of over three generations of lion handling offer the safest lion experience The park has an area of 10 hectares and is home to 1,500 birds, giant tortoises, tigers, lions and monkeys.

10. Mauritius is a world class Golf destination. Most of the golf courses in Mauritius are expertly designed and maintained. The surrounding areas with exotic palm trees, bougainvilleas, flame trees and lakes offer a relaxing and natural setting. The GOLF OPEN is held every year in December. For the earnest golfer or beginners alike the climate and facilities offer a true paradise holiday.

Website http://www.elegantdestinations.co.uk

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Leading villa specialist Villas De Maitre has expanded its presence in Mauritius with the launch of a superbly appointed privately owned luxury apartments and penthouse overlooking the beautiful turquoise lagoon of Cap Malheureux, on the North coast of the island.

The two ground floor, two first floor apartments (150m2) and the second floor penthouse (250m2) offer a high level of comfort and their covered terraces offer stunning views over the lagoon with the small outer island of Coin de Mire as backdrop.

In the garden is a swimming pool with a large wooden decking area, a bar pool, parasols and sun loungers. Cape Point is located in the exclusive and quiet area of Cap Malheureux and is only five minutes away from the bustling resort of Grand Bay with its array of small restaurants, supermarkets, cafés, banks and chic boutiques of Sunset Boulevard.

Villas De Maitre co-founder Julie Gauthier said she was delighted to be introducing Cape Point as this private property sets a new standard in high calibre ocean-front rentals.

Mrs Gauthier pointed out that the opening of such properties in other seaside locations is a welcome addition to what the island offers as they offer privacy, style and service required by many clients coming to Mauritius on business or for an extended stay.

It is also ideal for families, groups of friends and small corporate groups.

Cape Point offers four spacious and light-filled apartments with three en suite bedrooms (2 doubles king-size and one twin bedroom), open plan living and dining area, American kitchen and large deck area with alfresco dining area with individual gas barbecue.

The Penthouse covers the whole top floor and has four bedrooms (3 doubles king-size and one twin bedroom), 3 bathrooms (2 en suite and 1 shared).

All properties have soft-tone luxurious furnishings, quality linens, WIFI, flat Screen LDC TV in Lounge & all Bedrooms, satellite TV & music channels, DVD with library and IPOD music system, 24/7 security with video surveillance and individual alarm in each apartment & penthouse connected to the security gate

Water sports, spas, bars, restaurants and shops are a short drive from the property. Free daily housekeeping and guest laundry service. Extras like private chef and nannies available.

http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1662

About Villas De Maitre

Villas De Maitre is a luxury villa reservations company, providing access to some of the most beautiful and exceptional villas in Mauritius and Seychelles.

Villas De Maitre directors personally inspect and evaluate each villa guaranteeing that passion for excellence expected by their clients.

As well as providing accommodation and destination information, Villas De Maitre can tailor-makes villa holidays to suit each client’s needs, whether these be private chefs, nannies, butlers or simply a restaurant recommendation and reservation.

Villas De Maitre, market leader in Mauritius luxury private villa rental, has over 16 years experience of representing some of the most exclusive private luxury villas on the island.

Villas De Maitre, 70 Wendover Road, Aylesbury HP21 9LW United Kingdom.
Tel: +44 1296 334138 / Email: info@villasdemaitre.com

Long-haul tour operator, Tropical Sky, has expanded with the acquisition of www.familydiving.co.uk .

Already a successful brand, Family Diving focuses on providing a broad range of tailor-made diving packages for families travelling with children to Egypt, Maldives, St Lucia and Tobago.

All resorts have children’s clubs whilst some also offer qualified childcare. Other services important to those travelling with younger family members include a personalised fly-and-stay nanny service where a personal nanny is made available for the full duration of their holiday.

Under the new branding, Family Diving has introduced a choice of exotic new destinations for 2010 including Mauritius, Turks & Caicos and Grenada. Packages include;

May Half-Term in the Maldives

Take the family to the Maldives in May and stay for seven-nights on an all-inclusive basis at Biyadoo Island Resort from £3,599 for a family of four.

Valid for travel on 28 May, the price includes flights from London Gatwick with British Airways and accommodation in a Beach Front Villa.

Situated in South Male Atoll the island has one of the Maldives finest house reefs and offers perfect diving conditions for diving enthusiasts whilst providing ideal learning conditions for adult and junior divers.

Summer Holidays in Grenada

Spend the summer holidays in Grenada with seven-nights on an all-inclusive basis at the Grenadian by rex resorts from £3,999 for a family of four. V

alid for travel in July and August, the price includes flights from London Gatwick with Monarch and accommodation in a hillside room. Set in 30 acres of landscaped gardens on the sandy beach of Tamarind Bay, the hotel offers great value and is well-suited to families with its excellent facilities including a children’s club, two swimming pools, floodlit tennis courts, beach volleyball and non-motorised watersports.

October Half-Term in Sharm El Sheikh

Tropical Sky Family Diving is offering seven-nights staying at the Savoy Hotel in Sharm El Sheikh on a bed and breakfast basis from £3,099 for a family of four. Valid for travel on 23 October, the price includes flights from London Gatwick with British Airways and accommodation in a garden room.

A popular hotel for families, the surrounding national park and large private beach is a haven for divers, snorkellers and watersport enthusiasts.

All packages include transfers, taxes and surcharges with babysitting available at all resorts on request.

Prices quoted are for a family of four, which is based on two adults and two children under 12 sharing.

For more information visit www.familydiving.co.uk  or call 01342 310585.

High Temperature, Higher Satisfaction!

In response to the much anticipated ‘Indian Ocean Fever’ in 2010, Air Austral has launched their new competitive year-round fare from Sydney to the exotic region, effective immediately.

CEO of Air Austral, Mr Gerard Etheve, says anticipation of the FIFA World Cup in South Africa has fuelled the hype, establishing the Indian Ocean as the world’s ‘hottest’ region to visit in 2010.

“With South Africa hosting one of the biggest international events, this presents the best opportunity for us to showcase our amazing destinations to the world,” says Mr Etheve.

“We are already experiencing a healthy growth with Australian visitors to the region with more and more travellers using Reunion as an exotic stop-over to explore our equally exotic neighbours.

“Johannesburg, Mauritius and the Seychelles have traditionally been the popular end-destinations in the Indian Ocean for Australian travellers, but more and more Australians are heading to Mayotte to experience the second largest lagoon in the world and Madagascar for its sheer uniqueness.”

Headquartered in Reunion, Air Austral services the largest network of destinations in the Indian Ocean, including South Africa, Mauritius, the Seychelles, Madagascar and Mayotte, and provides daily services from Reunion to Paris, linking two of the world’s most exciting destinations.

Fares from Sydney to Reunion and Mauritius start from $1,236.90, South Africa (Johannesburg) from $1,951.90, Madagascar (Antananarivo) from $1,500.80 and the Seychelles from $2,009.40, inclusive of taxes.

Air Austral has an interline agreement in Australia with Virgin Blue, and competitive fares are also available from Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane to the Indian Ocean.

Air Austral is represented in Australia by World Aviation Systems.

Please visit www.airaustral.com.au  

or call 1300 306 365 for more information.

*Conditions apply to the airfares and they are subject to availability.

Starwood Hotels and Resorts launched an African travel promotion offering discounts of up to 40 percent off best available rates for early bookings.

Over 20 Sheraton, Le Méridien, The Luxury Collection and Four Points by Sheraton hotels and resorts in destinations such as Algeria, Egypt, Gambia, Mauritius, Seychelles and South Africa are included.

Rates start from 46 euros per room per night at the Sheraton Dahab in Egypt or 53 euros per room per night at the Sheraton Dreamland Hotel & Conference Centre, located just 8 kilometers from the Pyramids in Cairo.

Exotic options include The Grand Mauritian Resort & Spa in Mauritius, which is offering rates from 232 euros per room per night.

The Sheraton Pretoria Hotel is offering discount rates from 104 euros per room per night for a two-night minimum stay.

Bookings must be made by March 31, 2010, with travel valid until the end of August. Savings of 20 percent are valid for bookings made at least 14 days in advance, rising to a 30 percent discount on reservations confirmed within 21 days of arrival and a 40 percent reduction at selected properties when bookings are confirmed at least 28 days ahead of travel.

Black-out dates and other restrictions may apply at individual hotels. The offer is not applicable for group bookings.

For reservations and more information, visit www.starwoodafrica2010.com

For couples there are the Secret Cove Cottages, two stylish Creole style 2-bedroom thatched beach bungalows with a tropical garden overlooking a small sandy beach facing the 5* Le Touessrok hotel, on the South-East coast of the island.

The property is situated on the edge of a typical fishing village with local shops approximately 300m away. Rates from 200 Euros a night

For families and larger groups there are several exciting additions to the portfolio:

In the east in Roches Noires, on an exclusive stretch of residential beach is Villa Tropical Cove.

The villa is spacious with 4 bedrooms, large veranda and beach facing gazebo for alfresco meals. A short drive from kite surfing, golf course (Belle Mare) and some excellent local restaurants. Rates from 275 Euros for one couple only and from 325 Euros for up to 6 adults + 2 children

Villa Four A Chaux in neighbouring Poste Lafayette has recently been upgraded and has 4 bedrooms.

Built around the ruins of a lime kiln with beautiful handmade stone walls, dating back to the beginning of the century and with night time spot lights the romantic villa has particular appeal.

Steps made of cut stones lead to a fine sandy beach. Rate at 210 Euros for up to 4 guests and 250 Euros a night for 7 guests.

The beautiful south coast features villas for the first time. In Pointe D’Esny Villa La Croisette, Chinese inspired form with wrap around veranda, magnificent views and a sublime beach.

Rates from 428 Euros for up to 8 guests. Villa Seabreeze, a spacious 5 bedroom villa sleeping max 8 ad + 4 ch for 499 Euros if a full house.

Only a few kilometres from Souillac on the south west coast is the sea side village of Riambel, still untouched by the development of tourism. Villa Champagne is one of the best beach poll villas in Mauritius.

Its owner has upgraded this large property to a very high standard and the pristine beach in front of the estate is practically empty. The lagoon is shallow and bathing is excellent

The rate for 6 persons is from 300 Euros.

The villas all have maid services and on site cooks. The privacy and freedom enjoyed by these villas is increasing in popularity and make a refreshing and authentic experience to the traditional hotel holiday.

The In-Villa cook prepares a variety of local gastronomic delights which are an integral part of a great holiday and families with small children can benefit from reasonably priced childcare.

Many watersports and excursions can be organized by the concierge team.

-Ends-

African Travel Inc.
CONTACT: Heidi Podjavorsek
TEL: (800) 421-8907 x 115
E-MAIL: heidip@africantravelinc.com
WEB: www.africantravelinc.com

African Travel Inc., a company that specializes in super-luxe journeys throughout the African continent, to islands in the Indian Ocean, and to Dubai, recently announced an exciting lineup of itineraries for the 2010 season.

African Travel Inc. caters to travelers who seek highly personalized and customized encounters with African wildlife and culture, and who require product exclusivity, diversification, and extraordinary personal services.

Although these are just a few of African Travel Inc.’s diverse offerings, the following provides a sneak preview of some exciting 2010 itineraries.

The Ultimate Safari

An unprecedented safari experience awaits travelers on this journey that combines culture, natural attractions, and superb Big Five game viewing.

A private car and guide transform ordinary sightseeing into a comfortable and personalized adventure and accommodations have been carefully chosen to reflect the best that Africa has to offer.

Highlights include accommodations in distinctive lodges and camps including some of Conde Nast’s “Gold List” winners, gourmet South African food and wine, dinner with a local Capetonian family, extraordinary game viewing in Kruger National Park and Botswana, an elephant back excursion at Elephant Whispers, and much more. 18 days starting at $10,795 per person, land cost.

Southern Jewels

With a combination of vast pristine wilderness and a small population, Namibia is the definitive land of discovery and soul-searching.

Marvel at the world’s tallest sand dunes and one of the oldest forms of art before becoming entranced in the distinctive safari experience in Etosha, Namibia’s largest animal refuge, before finishing up in cosmopolitan Cape Town. Other highlights include exploring Fish River Canyon, second only in size to the Grand Canyon, climbing the world’s tallest sand dunes at Sossusvlei, viewing some of the fascinating geological features in Damaraland and rock engravings by some of Namibia’s oldest inhabitants, the Bushmen, wildlife excursions in and around Etosha National Park, and more. 13 Days starting at $6,995, land cost.

Nile Splendors

From the moment of arrival in Cairo, travelers are immersed in the sights and sounds of a thriving modern culture living side by side with remnants of the ancient past.

From the legendary pyramids at Giza to the immense temple complex at Karnak, the sheer magnitude of these structures dwarfs the imagination, and to bear witness to the accomplishments is truly a humbling experience.

Highlights of this journey include walking in the footsteps of Egypt’s greatest pharaohs, exploring the temples along the Nile from the comfort of a luxury cruise ship, private tours led by Egyptologist guides, recreating the past while donning a galabeya for a traditional dinner aboard the Nile cruise, gazing at the golden mask of Tut, and much more. 12 days starting at $2195, land cost.

African Travel Inc. caters to adventurers and luxury travelers of all ages — singles, couples, families, small groups of friends, inter-generational, and special interest groups. Their travel experts help travelers plan family travel, honeymoons, golfing tours, spa trips, wine and food tours, as well as cultural extensions and special interest safaris.

To learn more about African Travel Inc. or to order a brochure, visit the website at www.africantravelinc.com  or contact Heidi Podjavorsek at (800) 421-8907 x 115.

Specialist long-haul tour operator adds South America, the Caribbean and Indian Ocean to its growing portfolio of exotic destinations

Following a complete re-brand, Travelmood has added a whole host of exciting new destinations and authentic experiences to its collection of long-haul, tailor-made holidays.

Travelmood customers can now visit a wider range of destinations including holiday hot-spots never before offered by the specialist tour operator and retailer. In addition, Travelmood’s 14 new-look brochures and website showcase a variety of hotels and itineraries that are new for 2010, spanning the world’s most captivating of far-flung countries.

Travelmood has long been known for its specialism in the Far East, Australia and New Zealand, North America and Southern Africa but now, for the first time in the company’s history, Travelmood is offering holidays to South America, the Caribbean and Indian Ocean.

The Latin America & Caribbean brochure is full to the brim with locally escorted tours, beach holidays, city breaks and tailor-made packages to suit all type of travellers. With hotels ranging from three to five-star, Travelmood’s programme offers flexibility and competitive prices.

In South America, Travelmood customers can visit the popular destinations of Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, Cuba, Peru, Galapagos, Chile, Argentina and Brazil.

Locally escorted tours range from “Classic Yucatan”, an eight-day Mexico holiday from just £1,259 per person to “From the Andes to the Galapagos”, a 14-day trip to Peru, Ecuador and the Galapagos from £3,599 per person.

In the Caribbean, Travelmood has negotiated some excellent special offers with superb hotels in Cuba, Barbados, St Lucia, Antigua and the Bahamas, including free nights, free board upgrades, children stay free and children eat free.

Caribbean beach-breaks include a five-night package to Antigua from £939 per person, a five-night holiday to Barbados from £1,219 per person and five nights in the Bahamas from £999 per person.

Travelmood’s brand new Indian Ocean programme features Sri Lanka, Seychelles, Mauritius, Maldives, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman. New route launches from airlines including as Oman Air have made dream multi-centre holidays such as Oman, Maldives and Sri Lanka possible.

Travelmood has also added India to its repertoire with beach breaks in Goa, houseboat stays in Kerala and complete India touring itineraries on offer.

In Africa, Travelmood has broadened its selection of holidays to incorporate Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar, which complement the tour operator’s ever popular Egypt and Southern Africa programmes.

New hotels and resorts that feature in Travelmood’s 2010 holiday selection include the Aria and Vdara hotels in Las Vegas’ new CityCenter complex, the Maritim in Mauritius which re-opened in November 2009 following a £23 million renovation and the Kempinski Soma Bay in Egypt which opened its doors in July 2009.

New for 2010 in the Maldives are The Hilton Iru Fushi Resort & Spa, which was re-branded in July 2009, Lily Beach, a five-star all inclusive resort which re-opened in May 2009 following a complete renovation, the all inclusive, Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa which opens in January 2010 and the Holiday Inn Kandooma which will be ready in December 2009.

In addition, Travelmood offers “Adventure” holidays through its partnerships with TUI-owned activity brands including Exodus, The Adventure Company and Imaginative traveller and other third-party suppliers such as GAP.

Travelmood’s exciting collection of brochures includes:

• Australia 2010 • USA & Canada 2010
• New Zealand 2010 • Walking & Trekking Adventures
• Australia & New Zealand Touring • Family Adventures
• Far East 2010 • Discovery Adventures
• Indian Ocean 2010 • Adventure Collection
• Latin America & Caribbean 2010 • South, Central & North America Adventures
• Africa 2010 • Worldwide Adventures

After being in operation for more than 25 years, Travelmood was acquired by TUI Travel Plc in May 2008.

As well as introducing a host of new destinations, hotels and itineraries for 2010, Travelmood has re-launched its website and is increasing its retail presence.

The company opened a brand new flagship travel shop in Leeds in November 2009 and will open two further stores in early 2010.

This will bring the total number of retail outlets to eight.

As the British winter settles in and the temptation to jet off for some winter sun kicks in, HomeAway Holiday-Rentals provides the perfect solution, listing thousands of holiday homes worldwide available to rent in hotter climes.

The site has a huge variety of sunny destinations to choose from, some just a short hop from the UK, like Morocco or the Canary Islands, others more exotic, like Bali or Jamaica. So whatever your budget, your own private place in the winter sun is not out reach.

To provide some inspiration, on www.HomeAway.co.uk  we have compiled a list of ten of the best winter sun homes, featuring some of the most gorgeous properties available to rent around the world. Take a dip in the cooling waters near your own beachside villa in Phuket, or sway in a hammock by the pool in Brazil.

Sun lovers looking to escape grey skies of home will enjoy browsing through these high-end holiday homes, ranging from a gorgeous open-plan villa among the jungle tree-tops in Bali, to a modern townhouse villa in Marrakech.

HomeAway Holiday-Rentals favourite top 10 spots for winter sun:

Bali

Brazil

Thailand

Jamaica

Dubai

Mauritius

Canary Islands

Egypt

Morocco

Cape Winelands, South Africa

Top 10 winter sun holiday homes:

1. BALI
Beautiful villa for a romantic honeymoon or family getaway in Ubud
2 Bedrooms, Sleeps 5. From £1,048 per week
The villa almost seems to hang suspended above a steep jungle filled gorge. In all directions there is nothing but trees, but 100m below there are beautiful rice paddies, and in the distance you can see all the way to the ocean.

Furnished by Christopher Noto, the exclusive Singapore furniture designer, Villa Kalisha offers understated romantic luxury, with a strong taste of Asian flare.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p417517

2. THAILAND

Luxury large beachside villa with private pool, terrace and amazing views, Phuket

4 Bedrooms, Sleeps 10. From £3,539 per week

Featuring a state-of-the-art kitchen from Minotti, Italy, and other luxury features such as wine cellar, sauna, massage room and home cinema which add to a chill out area with a 15-meter marble pool, this amazing villa also offers a private stairwell from the cliff-edge pool to a natural, shallow swimming enclave in the sea below.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p433920

3. DUBAI

Luxury 4 bedroom villa, Palm Jumeriah
4 Bedrooms, Sleeps 8. From £4,830 per week

This beautiful private villa situated near the end of the M frond with wonderful views of the Dubai skyline, has it own private pool & walk through the lounge down the steps to private beach.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p420340

4. CANARY ISLANDS

Luxury villa with private pool near a golf course, Gran Canaria

3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 6. From £189 per night

This exclusive and beautiful villa offers ultimate tranquillity and privacy and has spectacular views of the mountains and the golf course. A wicker ceiling allows through partial light, protecting you from the sun’s rays during the day, making this the perfect place for a relaxing read or chat over a couple of drinks.

A private heated seawater pool is also provided while the nearest beaches are only five minutes away by car.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p413635

5. MOROCCO

A beautiful luxury town villa in Marrakech

5 Bedrooms, Sleeps 10. From £1,600 per week

Tastefully furnished and decorated in a modern Moroccan style including paintings and ornaments, the villa has two living rooms with a fully functional fireplace and an office, while also offering in house entertainment facilities (large plasma screen TV, DVD, satellite and hi-fi system with satellite TV in each bedroom).

A large dinning room leads off to the private pool and caters for a party of 10.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p89318

6. BRAZIL

Large beautiful house overlooking Ferradura Beach

5 Bedrooms, Sleeps 10. From £2,392 per week

This beautiful villa is situated within walking distance of shops and restaurants and features a private cinema room and a garden with swimming pool, heated Jacuzzi and decked barbeque area.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p423163

7. JAMAICA

Beautiful Private Villa with large pool & Jacuzzi, Ocho Rios

7 Bedrooms, Sleeps 18. From £3,064 per week
Situated on the Mammee Bay Private Estate with private beach and only minutes from the town of Ocho Rios with its many craft markets, boutiques, duty free shops, restaurant, bars and vibrant night live, this amazing villa features a spacious panoramic lounge and a large private pool with Hot Tub Jacuzzi.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p69461

8. MAURITIUS

Luxury villa with private pool in the chic area of Grand Bay

4 Bedrooms, Sleeps 8. From £198 per night

The design and modern architecture of the villa contrasts with its local elements such as thatch and typical Mauritian ‘chalis’ floors. Bali furniture, wooden openings and marble in bathrooms also give an elegant touch to the villa.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p420872

9. EGYPT
Luxury Detached Villa on The Red Sea

3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 6. £900 per week
Designed by prominent Egyptian Architect Shehab Mazhar, this beachfront White Villa personifies the warm elegance of Mediterranean architecture and features 360 degree panoramic views of the Red Sea, golf course and surrounding mountains.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p81595

10. CAPE WINELANDS, SOUTH AFRICA

Stylish comfortable holiday home
2 Bedrooms, Sleeps 4. From £108 per night

The charming, newly built estate is situated in a quiet neighbourhood of villas, only two km away from the world-famous Erinvale golf course. The house boasts a spacious living space with high gables and modern, high-quality leather furniture, open fireplace, Flat screen-TV, DVD and access to the terrace.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p504778

BAILEY ROBINSON (www.baileyrobinson.com  Tel 01488 689 700), the designer of inspirational bespoke journeys worldwide, has added over 20 new deluxe properties to their 2010 “Luxury Resorts” brochure. Handpicking the crème de la crème, this latest portfolio of properties offers an unrivalled collection of some of the world’s most renowned, stylish and sumptuous hotels, not to mention resorts situated in incredible locations.

To help clients make the most of their precious holiday time, Bailey Robinson has taken the stress out of finding the perfect escape with a ‘Best of the Best’ overview on the themes of Families, Spa, Romance, Privacy and Food. Continually striving to offer luxury for less, Bailey Robinson has also selected the most affordable luxury properties. Here are some of their recommendations:

BEST FOR AFFORDABLE LUXURY:

- Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali: A stunning property on the northern shores of Bali. Prices start from £980 per person for seven nights, including full board, a daily spa treatment and international flights.

- Anahita The Resort, Mauritius: One, two and three-bedroom residences, each with private plunge pool, are three times the average five-star resort room size in Mauritius, with three, four and five-bedroom villas with pools also available.

The feeling of space extends outside with complimentary use of the 18-hole Ernie Els designed golf course that wraps itself around the resort and lagoon. The professional kids club takes children from just 8 months old, saving on babysitting costs. Prices start from £1,440 per person for seven- nights, including half board and international flights.

- The Oberoi, Sahl Hasheesh, Egypt: Located on the beach near the Red Sea resort of Hurghada, the open-plan suites are vast with landscaped bathroom gardens and finest Egyptian cotton sheets. Prices start from £780 per person for seven-nights on a bed and breakfast basis, inclusive of international flights.

BEST FOR FAMILIES:

- Forte Village, Sardinia: This is one of the world’s best family resorts with a fantastic kids’ entertainment programme and unparalleled range of sporting and spa activities, equally captivating for children and adults.

- Four Seasons Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt: This family focused property bears all the hallmarks of Four Seasons’ hospitality making this the perfect base on the Red Sea.

- Soneva Kiri, Thailand: Setting a new standard of luxury in Thailand with futuristic facilities, resort highlights include an ice cream parlour, chocolate room and supervised Den located in the rainforest canopy.

BEST FOR SPAS:

- Anassa, Cyprus: With glowing accolades, this ultimate Mediterranean retreat offers a long sandy beach, stylish design and fabulous spa.

- Shanti Ananda, Mauritius: This is the Indian Ocean’s only destination spa designed to promote health and rejuvenation whilst incorporating large doses of indulgence and relaxation.

- Six Senses Destination Spa Phuket, Thailand successfully combines holistic fitness with unrivalled luxury in an exotic beach setting on the private island of Naka Yai.

BEST FOR ROMANCE:

- Hotel Caruso, Italy: An 11th century palace with one of the best infinity pool views in Europe, overlooking the Amalfi Coast.

- Maia, Seychelles: Located on a private peninsular on the west coast of Mahe, each of the 30 enormous villas overlooks the transparent turquoise sea and soft white sand of Anse Louis beach.

- Royal Davui, Fiji: The ultimate in privacy, service and relaxation, this hidden fantasy island offers a truly exclusive experience.

BEST FOR TOTAL ESCAPE, EXCLUSIVITY & PRIVACY:

- Banyan Tree Madivaru, Maldives: Comprising just six 264 square metre tented pool villas, this is the place guests can indulge in true island escapism with sumptuous private dining on a deserted sandbank.

- Mustique Island, Grenadines: This, one of the world’s most exclusive islands, is home to the Cotton House Hotel as well as a collection of luxury villas scattered across the 560 hectare island. All villas come with a full time cook, housekeeper and gardener, private terrace, swimming pool and sea views.

- Pangkor Laut Estates at Marina Bay, Malaysia: Set on a private island five kilometres off the west coast of Malaysia, with only a fraction of the 120 hectares developed and the rest covered by lush and unspoiled rainforest, accommodation is in over water villas offering views over the Malacca Straits whilst the hillside villas look out to sea and the outlying islands.

BEST FOR FOOD:

- Relais San Maurizio, Italy: A beautiful countryside monastery, renowned for its fine wines and superb authentic cuisine, their Michelin starred restaurant, Da Guido, takes inspiration from the surrounding Piedmont vineyards and the local white truffle. During truffle season guests can join in a fun filled hunt.

- Atlantis, the Palm, Dubai: There are an incredible 17 restaurants to choose from at this landmark resort, many with Michelin stars associated with award-winning chefs.

- Southern Ocean Lodge, Australia: An iconic accommodation experience redefining the Australian standard with a restaurant offering sweeping vistas of Hanson Bay. This is the ideal place to savour contemporary Australian cuisine.