Jetsettersblog

at Port de Plaisance, Thursday March 1st, 2012!

Simpson Bay, St. Maarten – These young energetic musicians are no strangers to the island, they actually made their debut on this same stage in 2010 for St. Maarten’s ChildFest. Their funky mix of music seemed an obvious choice to bring back to the island for the 2012 St. Maarten Heineken Regatta.

NexCyx began in 2004 as a musical experiment on the University of West Indies campus in Barbados. Since then, it has evolved into a celebrated entertainment outfit, with a repertoire of original hit music, and a solid—and growing—fan base.

The Barbadian pop band is an artistic mishmash of a self-taught pianist turned producer (André), a drumming prodigy (Chad), an accidental bass guitarist (Kris), a one-woman dancer-singer-rapper (Mahalia) and a hardcore rocker (Russell).

NexCyx exudes an unmistakable energy—it’s fresh, upbeat, bold and unmistakable.

In 2010, when they welcomed Chad, the drumming wonderchild, to their lineup, they dished out an extra serving of youthful swagger. Together, they’re just what the music industry ordered, it seems. And the fans are eating the group up!!

In under a decade, NexCyx has played at a range of venues throughout North America and the Caribbean region, while holding down a demanding gig schedule in Barbados, where their singles are in heavy rotation at local stations.

“Gossip Girl,” released in 2009, became the band’s breakout single and instantly landed as a fan favorite. Hits like “Queen,” “OnThe Floor” and the socially conscious “Take A Minute,” also followed, etching a place for NexCyx on the international music stage—and ushering in a new era of fandom.

The Band’s favorite memories are: A high school auditorium filled with screaming students belting out the band’s hits word for word tops the cake for Russ, opening for Erykah Badu and Angie Stone to wild applause, hopping on to the SXSW stage two years in a row, and performing to rave reviews at a concert headlined by Jamaican musical duo, Brick and Lace are some other great memories..

NexCyx defines their music as follows:” if it were an icecream, it would be loaded with nuts (lots of them), chocolate, gummi worms and tequila—with a cherry on top.”

That said, there is a distinctive camaraderie that the band shares, which musical groups the world over struggle to achieve.

That NexCyx is on the right track is obvious. There’s an MTV Artist of the Week accolade in their history already—and an Artist of the Month title from Rockwired.com. And now they can add performing at the prestigious St. Maarten Heineken Regatta to their resume.

Be there, Thursday March 1st to experience Nexcyx kick of the 32nd edition of the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta.

All the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta parties are free and open to the public. Food and drinks are available each night. Parking at Port de Plaisance is easy, safe and free.

For full information on the 2012 St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, including entry information, the Notice of Race, photos, videos, party and band information, and much, much more, visit www.heinekenregatta.com

New for 2012, travel specialists Scott Dunn have launched an exclusive Tanzania safari and Mozambique beach yoga itinerary. Pairing up with Vamizi Island’s brand new yoga retreats in Mozambique and Selous Safari Camp in Tanzania, this package offers the very best in African adventure as well as holistic luxury.

For those wanting to explore lesser-known southern Tanzania, the Selous Safari Camp offers the perfect sophisticated safari experience. Situated within an open palm forest on the shores of Lake Nzerakera in the Selous Game Reserve, guests can enjoy daily walking and boat safaris in one of Africa’s least known, yet wildest, conservation areas.

And after discovering the wilds of Tanzania, guests can revive, restore and rejuvenate on Vamizi Island, an ultra-luxurious private beach lodge on the Quirimbus Archipelago, Mozambique.

Celebrating the launch of its first dedicated retreats, visitors can enjoy morning vinasa yoga on the shoreline followed by a freshly-prepared juice or smoothie from the island’s ‘natural pharmacy’ and an evening session against the setting sun – both hosted by renowned instructor Claire Finlay. This exclusive package also offers guests the chance to sample reviving spa treatments, take to the seas to catch surf-fresh tuna sashimi and dive the island’s azure waters.

The exclusive Tanzania Safari and Vamizi Spa Retreats package is only available for limited weeks in 2012 from $6,310 per person. Valid for the weeks commencing March 1 and November 6, the price includes three nights at the Selous Safari Camp on a full-board basis with daily safari activities and five nights at Vamizi Spa Retreat on a fully-inclusive basis to include twice daily yoga sessions, one spa treatment, dive and fishing trip per stay. The price also includes taxes, domestic flights and transfers. Visit http://www.scottdunn.com  or call 0044 20 8682 5070 for more information.

The Wuzhen Clubhouse, located in Wuzhen, China, recently underwent renovation of three separate riverside ancient timber houses that were originally built in the eras of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

They have now been restored to provide accommodation in a boutique hotel with elegant rooms and suites, fine dining restaurants and a holistic spa.

One of the properties, the Heal Town House places emphasis on health and healing and is set next to an ancient pharmacy. All of the Wuzhen Clubhouse properties are decorated with traditional courtyards, intricate wood and stone carving, beamed ceilings, gabled roofs and four-poster beds. Historic Wuzhen is known for its cobblestone streets and abundance of bridges that cross the town’s intricate network of rivers and canals that have contributed to it being awarded UNESCO World Heritage status.

After unveiling its multigenerational travel survey, Preferred Hotel Group announced its entry into the expanding luxury serviced residences market with the company’s new brand — Summit Serviced Residences. Summit Serviced Residences is a collection of luxury flexible-stay properties that combine the style and amenities of a city hotel with the space and comfort of a personal residence.

Joining the Summit Serviced Residences collection are properties from AKA, a collection of extended-stay properties with locations in New York City, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Arlington, Va. Preferred expects to grow its Summit Serviced Residences collection internationally and will target key cites in Asia, Africa, Europe, and India, where it already includes its inaugural partners in Singapore, 8 on Claymore Serviced Residences, and in South Africa, Gondwana Game Reserve.

Antigua’s Jolly Beach Resort is offering a “Winter Escape” promotion featuring all-inclusive rates starting at $348.50 per room, per night, double occupancy for a standard room. The offer applies to travel through April 15, 2012. Children ages 3 to 11 years who share a room with two adults pay $63 per child, per night, while kids 2 years old and younger stay free.

In celebration of the 2102 Leap Year, the Grand Lucayan, Bahamas resort is offering travelers born on Feb. 29 a $29 per room, per night double occupancy rate.

Rooms are based on availability and a two-night stay is required. Guests must present government-issued ID with birth date upon check-in.

KEY WEST, Florida Keys — Maybe “American Idol” winners aren’t abandoning their guitars to play conch shell concerts, but fans of the fluted, pink-lined shell are puckering up for the 50th annual test of “conch musicianship” in Key West.

The Conch Shell Blowing Contest begins at noon Saturday, March 3, in the tropical garden of Key West’s Oldest House, 322 Duval St. Nicknamed the Conch Honk, the lighthearted competition salutes Key West’s seafaring heritage and is presented by the Old Island Restoration Foundation.

The tradition of blowing a conch shell in the Florida Keys began centuries ago. In the 1800s, when the local economy was largely based on salvaging cargoes from ships wrecked on the nearby reef, sailors attracted attention by blowing piercing blasts on the shell.

“There wasn’t a ship that went out that didn’t have at least one conch shell on it for communications,” said veteran contest winner Clinton Curry.

The Keys’ connection with conch goes far beyond instrumental and communications applications.

The slightly tough meat of the hardy mollusk is the prime ingredient in conch chowder and conch fritters, two of the island chain’s signature dishes. Keys natives proudly proclaim their own tough, hardy nature by calling themselves “conchs” and their home the Conch Republic.

Several dozen kids and adults are expected to compete in the March 3 “conch honk,” showcasing their pucker power and honoring an important Keys tradition. Spectators can expect more laughs than musical inspiration and a surprise visit from some characters from Key West’s seafaring history.

While most entrants only manage blasts or squawks, each year a few produce complex melodies that impress judges and audiences alike.

Winners are chosen for the quality, duration, loudness and novelty of the sounds they make, with trophies awarded in multiple age categories.

The festivities typically include performances by talented “pucker pros.”

The 2012 Conch Shell Blowing Contest is free to enter and watch. Contestants can register at the Oldest House from 10:30 a.m. to noon March 3, or at the event itself if space is still available.

Those lacking “instruments” can purchase conch shells on site.

Event information: www.oirf.org or 305-294-9501
Key West visitor information: www.fla-keys.com/keywest  or 1-800-LAST-KEY
Social: facebook.com/floridakeysandkeywest • twitter.com/thefloridakeys • youtube.com/FloridaKeysTV

Hutchinson Island Marriott Offers 20% off Peak Season Sale

Stuart, Fla. – Are you tired of the cold? Rush down to the sunshine state for a trove of winter savings at the crown jewel of the Treasure Coast, Hutchinson Island Marriott, where the weather is warm and the savings are truly worth their weight in gold.

An exclusive island oasis on Florida’s southeast coast, Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort & Marina had a brilliant idea – to offer snowbirds a peak season sale they can’t resist.

Based on a minimum two-night stay, the “Gold Rush” package features 20% off accommodations and complimentary breakfast for two, with rates ranging from $160 – $256.

Travelers who make their reservations during the limited-time booking window of February 6th – February 20th can get away from the winter chill and enjoy this golden deal. Valid on travel through April 10th, 2012.

To book the “Gold Rush” package, visit www.marriotthutchinsonisland.com  and use the rate code WNT or call 1-800-775-5936 and mention the package. Blackout dates may apply.

About Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort & Marina

As an exclusive island oasis at the heart of southeast Florida’s Treasure Coast, the Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort & Marina, an AAA Three Diamond resort, is a 200-acre retreat flanked by the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal waterway. Set in a serene, coastal-chic environment, it offers unspoiled beaches and deluxe accommodations, including 70 oceanfront Sandpiper Beach Villas. Its unique amenities include an executive 18-hole golf course; a 77-slip marina; recreational activities such as deep-sea and river fishing, jet skiing, tennis, kayaking and biking; four dining options; three outdoor pools; and over 25,000 square feet of flexible meeting facilities.

Tropical Treatment: The Somerset on Grace Bay, Turks & Caicos Welcomes New Wedding Planner and Exciting News for 2012
*Under new management, resort gears up with Family, Romance and Seasonal offers**

Providenciales, Turks & Caicos, January 23, 2012 — It happens suddenly. In the course of everyone’s winter, a weekend escape changes from something that sounds tempting to something you desperately need.

If you live in the northeast, you’re no doubt yearning for somewhere that’s reliably warm yet somewhere you can be immediately (or at least by lunchtime).

A resort with that just-right blend of intimacy and sophistication. After a few months swaddled in fleece, a beach would be a definite bonus and great food. Yup, it would have to have a decent restaurant (or possibly two?). And while we’re dreaming, would a plush, spacious suite be too much to ask? As it happens, no it wouldn’t. That fantasy of yours sounds a lot like The Somerset, the boutique resort on Grace Bay, arguably the finest beach in the Caribbean.

The Somerset offers a variety of 53 luxurious, spacious villas and estates ranging from 1,400 square-foot, one-bedroom Garden Villas to 5,300 square-foot five-bedroom Ocean Front Estates.

The property has two restaurants and bars and private dining options along with in-room spa choices and full concierge services.

“This year The Somerset has turned up the dial on customer service,” says Ulrich Krauer, the new managing director who joined the resort from Kona Village in Hawaii. “We are still a fairly new property, having originally opened in November 2006. Our owners are committed to giving guests at The Somerset a five-star resort experience, and we are well on the way to becoming one of the best full-service properties on Grace Bay Beach.” Krauer has revamped the family and weddings programs, upgraded amenities and services, and implemented a new restaurant team for a new and improved guest experience in 2012.

The Somerset on Grace Bay News for 2012

Destination Weddings at The Somerset; New Resort Wedding Planner

The Somerset is extremely popular with destination weddings, hosting more than 20 weddings and bridal events each year. New for 2012, the resort now has its own Wedding Planner — Rosalind McKensie, formerly with NILA Destinations in Turks & Caicos. Special group rates are available.

For couples getting married at The Somerset, the bridal party can opt for a two-bedroom villa with additional “bridal party suite” for hair/makeup/spa treatments.

This third accommodation is attached with separate entrance and can be transformed into a relaxing spa room for exclusive use during the stay.

Wider Range of Activities This Year

By land or by sea, The Somerset has all new activity equipment for water and beach fun. This winter season the resort offers paddleboards, windsurfers, Hobie Cat sailboats, kayaks, snorkel gear and more. All equipment is for guest use on a complimentary basis, lessons are required for use of Hobie Cats, wind surfer and paddleboard for a one-time charge and complimentary use thereafter. Those who prefer to stay dry can have fun playing beach volleyball, corn hole, ladder golf, lawn croquet, beach yoga and more.

Food & Beverage Upgrades

O’Soleil, the island’s renowned Caribbean-Mediterranean restaurant, has re-opened under the helm of new Executive Chef Joel Rheaume, formerly of The Grace Bay Club. O’Soleil is an upscale dining experience with both indoor and outdoor seating, open for breakfast and dinner. For a more casual lunch, the Somerset features LunAsea Bar & Grill by the pool and beach area; waiter service is available on the beach.

Somerset for Families: Free Kids Club; Extended Family Suites

The new “Caicos Kids Club” program for children ages 5 – 12 is complimentary this year. The Club is operated by certified teachers from a local school who are qualified to ensure a fun and educational experience. The daytime program changes daily to give a variety of activities and on select evenings a group kids dinner and entertainment is offered (sundown-8pm) to give parents the opportunity for a “date night” dinner together if they wish.

Every accommodation at The Somerset is equipped with a full kitchen, outfitted in Viking® appliances. A new grocery order program is available for those who would like their kitchen fully pre-stocked with their family’s favorite items upon arrival (billed at cost by The Somerset, plus nominal delivery fee).

Inquire about this program with reservations, and check back on the website soon as the order form will also be available online this winter.

For families traveling with extended family members, the two-and three-bedroom Ocean View Villa suites include as one of the bedrooms a ‘Queen Guest Room’ with a separate entrance.

This accommodation is luxuriously appointed with a queen bed, four-piece bath with therapeutic spa bathtub and separate shower, as well as a kitchenette. It is an excellent option for families with adult children or in-laws (also a great option for families traveling with a babysitter or nanny).

Rates at The Somerset on Grace Bay in winter start at $900/night, based on double occupancy, for a 1,400 sq. ft. one-bedroom Garden View Villa. As of April 8, rates start at $650/night for the same category. All rates include continental breakfast. For more information or to make a reservation please visit www.thesomerset.com  or call 877-887-5722. Special offers are available, click here to view. Follow The Somerset on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TheSomerset  and Twitter at www.twitter.com/TheSomerset.

The Somerset is a 10-minute ride from Providenciales International Airport (PLS) with direct air access from the U.S. on jetBlue (New York JFK, Boston), Continental (New York JFK, Newark), American Airlines (New York JFK, Miami and Dallas in winter season only), Delta (Atlanta), and US Airways (Charlotte, Philadelphia, Boston). In Canada direct access is available on WestJet from Toronto and Air Canada from Toronto and Montréal.

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Enhancing the guest experience, new creative touches include the “Tu Deseo” (My Wish List) wish board mounted in each guest room. From extra towels, a sunrise aqua yoga session, to local fruit with their room service breakfast, “Tu Deseo” will allow guests to express themselves and make their stay more enjoyable.

A boutique gym and ocean front business center round out the offering.

According to the new General Manager, José Torres, “The Water Club has all the right stuff to take the Metropolitan Area’s luxury boutique hotel experience to the next level and we’re having just as much fun with our new concept as our guests are.”

With 15 years of experience, Mr. Torres is well positioned to help the resort retain its leadership position as one of Puerto Rico’s top hotels.

His youthful enthusiasm paired with his proven ability and knowledge of the inner workings of resort properties give him invaluable insight into what makes a unique property like the Water Club tick—and what to do to make it a success.

Renowned as the hot spot for local residents and tourists, Mist offers comfortable seating areas for rooftop relaxation, swimming pool, signature cocktails and a decadent Island-Italian-Spanish-fusion menu featuring Socializers—small plates you can share—prepared with fresh, locally grown ingredients.

The new restaurant Zest on the ground floor welcomes guests with a unique subaquatic atmosphere and a modern experiential cuisine menu featuring sustainability-sourced ingredients, each dish infused with a unique scent meant to stimulate every sense.

The Water Club’s entire culinary operation is under the careful watch of new Executive Chef, local celebrity Raul Correa Soto, the 2008 Cattlemen’s Chef Challenge Champion, and collaborator for El Nuevo Día ’s “Por Dentro” Food Section and Primera Hora .

Even the Beach Experience has been re-engineered. Electronically connected to the hotel and restaurant, the Water Girls offer fast and unique service with a Beach Party menu built on user-friendly foods.

The perfect combination of comfort and luxury, 80 guest rooms including stunning suites feature ocean front views, partial ocean views, and city views. Plush beds dominate the space, with new pillow-top king sized mattresses made up with pristine, high-thread-count linens.

Room rates for The San Juan Water and Beach Club Hotel range from $199 to $359 per night, based on double occupancy. Stay tuned for more at http://waterbeachclubhotel.com/ 

About The San Juan Water and Beach Club

Also known as the Water Club, The San Juan Water and Beach Club Hotel is located in the city’s stylish Isla Verde, five minutes from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, and just 15 minutes away from the cruise docks, business district and the famous Old San Juan. Amenities include a rooftop sundeck and pool, wireless Internet access throughout the hotel, and a boutique gym. For business travelers and small groups they offer an intimate venue for up to 120 guests reception style, an elegant boardroom, an ocean front business center, and a 24-hour front desk service. In addition, the San Juan Water and Beach Club Hotel boasts some of San Juan’s most beautiful beachfront and newest dining options. The Water Club was recently voted #4 on TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Trendiest Hotels in the Caribbean . The hotel is the latest addition to Dallas-based Aimbridge Hospitality’s growing resort division.