Jetsettersblog

TripAdvisor named the winners of its 2012 Travelers’ Choice Romance awards, honoring the most romantic hotels in Europe and the world. Unlike any other hotel honors, TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice winners are based on millions of reviews and opinions from travelers around the world.

The Greek island of Santorini performed extraordinarily well in the romance stakes, laying claim to Europe’s two most romantic hotels — the winner, Andronis Luxury Suites, and runner-up, Aspaki & Oia Castle. Santorini also claimed the seventh place hotel, Anastasis Apartments, which was named the world’s second-best hotel in the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Hotel awards in January.

Europe’s most romantic hotels include the Andronis Luxury Suites in Santorini; the Aspaki & Oia Castle, also in Santorini; the Seven Hotel Paris; the Tiara Yaktsa Cannes; the Boutique Hotel Villa Sostaga Lake Garda, Italy; the Castello Bevilacqua, Italy: the Anastasis Apartments in Santorini; the Villa Contessa in Bad Saarow, Germany; the Sogno di Giulietta inVerona, Italy; and the Chateau de Marcay in Chinon, France.

Top luxury villa company CV Travel has come up with its top choice of romantic retreats for 2012, from cosy villas for two on the Greek islands, to a boutique London hotel, a town-house in rural France, to a Spanish cottage.

Coastal sun-kissed Greek villa for two
Pelagia Cottage, Messinia, Greece

What could be more romantic than sitting in a hot tub overlooking the Greek coastline as the sun sets across the Gulf ofMessinia. CV Travel’s Pelagia Cottageisa beautifully restored villain a superb setting on the edge of a low headland on the Peloponnese.

The property has two outdoor dining terraces, one dappled by shade and the other with a private jacuzzi on the headland with rock bathing just below and within walking distance of beautiful sandy beaches, local shops and tavernas in the Greek village of Stoupa.

A 7 night stay in Pelagia Cottage costs from £1680 – £1925 per week including car hire, maid service and food hamper, based on 2 guests sharing. Contact CV Travel on 020 7401 1026,www.cvtravel.co.uk

http://www.cvtravel.co.uk/en/destinations/europe/greece/peloponnese/stoupa/accommodation/pages/pelagia-cottage.aspx

Just a diamond’s call away
The Draycott Hotel, Kensington, Great Britain

Romantics and lovers of tradition will enjoy the afternoon tea and biscuits, champagne at six and bed-time hot chocolate at the 5* Draycott Hotel, a red-brick house in the heart of Kensington and Chelsea, close to Sloane Square and temptingly close to London’s high end shops.

The Draycott recalls an era of Edwardian grandeur in style, with high ceilings, period antiques and theatrical memorabilia and is set around a peaceful private garden square. 24-hour concierge service ensures that a call for a large diamond at 2am will at least be answered.

Those falling for the hotel’s charms, and each other, can also book a wedding reception there at a future date.

A two night stay at the Draycott Hotel costs from £318 per person in 2012 (based on a standard double bedroom), including breakfast, available through CV Travel, 020 7401 1086, www.cvtravel.co.uk

http://www.cvtravel.co.uk/en/destinations/europe/great-britain/england/london/accommodation/pages/the-draycott-hotel.aspx

`Wedding cake’ villa above the sea
La Ventana, Siesta, Ibiza

For those with nuptials on the mind La Ventana in Ibiza is a real `wedding cake’ of a whitewashed Spanish villa, tucked up in a private location on the cliffs above the small town of Siesta. Its immensely intimate setting, with wide-open sea views from its raised private terrace and its own hexagonal swimming pool make it a very special romantic retreat. The villa is private, but within a romantic stroll of a spa, lovely beaches and the bars and restaurants in the town.

La Ventanacan be rented through CV Travel from £2,170 per week between April and October 2012. Sleeps up to 4.

Contact CV Travel on 020 7401 1035 or visit www.cvtravel.co.uk

http://www.cvtravel.co.uk/en/destinations/europe/spain/ibiza/siesta/accommodation/pages/la-ventana.aspx#/

Centuries of love
The Cockloft, Cotswolds, Great Britain
Stroll in the grounds of Wiltshire’s oldest inhabited manor house, with its 13th century porch and 15th century chapel, and amid the ancient yews, stumble across a love folly and pluck a bloom from the profusion of old fashioned rose species that fill the gardens in May and June. This historic manor house has witnessed centuries of romance and modern-day romantics can enjoy a week’s stay at `The Cockloft’ in the grounds of the manor house, a heavily-beamed, ancient, stone-built house with traditional polished wood floors, furnished with antiques.

A week’s stay at The Cockloft can be booked with CV Travel (020 7401 1086, www.cvtravel.co.uk) costs from £600 for two.

http://www.cvtravel.co.uk/en/destinations/europe/great-britain/england/cotswolds/accommodation/pages/the-cockloft.aspx

Villa for two on the island of Corfu
Villa Akrothalassia, St Spiridon, Corfu

Akrothalassia on the North east coast of Corfu is a very romantic, secluded property situated deep within a private olive grove, just a few steps away from the sea. The property’s romantic charm includes a Jacuzzi bath which has superb views of the sea with an eye-catching silhouette of an offshore island.

A week’s stay starts from £1415 based on 2 people sharing and includes car hire maid service and food hamper. Contact CV Travel on 020 7401 1026 or visit www.cvtravel.co.uk

http://www.cvtravel.co.uk/en/destinations/europe/greece/corfu/kalamaki-st-spiridon–perithia/accommodation/pages/akrothalassia.aspx

A tower for two in rural Umbria
`Renato’s Tower’, Borgo San Biagio, Umbria

This quirky, restored medieval tower in a hilltop Umbrian hamlet with a hot-tub on the roof terrace, is absolutely perfect for a romantic weekend or honeymoon retreat. From the rooftop terrace couples enjoy beautiful views of the undulating countryside while the tower offers rustic and comfortable accommodation on 4 floors and is in close proximity to historic towns and places of interest for plenty of romantic excursions.

Renato’s Tower can be booked for two from £995 per week. Call CV Travel on 020 7401 1039 or visit www.cvtravel.co.uk

http://www.cvtravel.co.uk/EN/Destinations/Europe/Italy/Umbria/Umbria–Tuscany-Borders/Accomodations/Pages/Renatos-Tower.aspx

Wake up to the waves
`La Trasita’, Positano

Wake up to the sound of the waves and the scent of the sea in a 14th century Saracen tower, perched on the headland on a coastal path leading away fromPositano, making it a unique venue, with its own roof terrace, galleried double bedroom and sitting room with balcony. Sea views are, naturally, unrivalled.

La Trasita is available to book through CV Travel from £1445for two to share per week. Tel 020 7401 1039 or visit www.cvtravel.co.uk

http://www.cvtravel.co.uk/en/destinations/europe/italy/campania/amalfi-coast-sorrento–ischia/accommodation/pages/la-trasita.aspx

Town house on Sicily’s coastline
Casa Cefalu, Sicily Coast

Wander through the streets and squares of Cefalu with its palazzi, churches, old fashioned bars and a sandy beach, before returning a short stroll to Casa Cefalu, a pretty town house in the medieval centre of Cefalù, on the north coast of Sicily.From the house’s two terraces magnificent views over the roofs of the medieval town, the twelfth-century Norman cathedral and out to sea can be seen.

Casa Cefalu can be booked through from CV Travel from £895 for two to share per week. Call CV on 020 7401 1039 or visit www.cvtravel.co.uk   

http://www.cvtravel.co.uk/en/destinations/europe/italy/sicily/sicily-coast–countryside/accommodation/pages/casa-cefalu.aspx

Charming rural retreat, inland Mallorca

Son Siona, Mallorca, Spain

Son Siona is a traditional cottage with plenty of rural atmosphere and secluded countryside for a very peaceful and romantic stay. The local village of Buger is a short walk away and is one of the smallest municipalities on the island of Mallorca and one of the most attractive. Bursting with character and cosiness, the house has its own private pool and large private gardens, making it perfect for seclusion and romance.

Son Siona is available to rent through CV Travel (020 7401 1035, www.cvtravel.co.uk ) from £805 to £1565 per week.

http://www.cvtravel.co.uk/en/destinations/europe/spain/mallorca/bay-of-pollensa–surrounds/accommodation/pages/son-siona.aspx

Town house a deux in one of France’s most beautiful villages

La Petit Gordes, Gordes, France

Take a leisurely stroll together through the stone paved streets of one of France’s most beautiful villages, Gordes, a picturesque hillside town with spectacular views overlooking the hills of Luberon, and a place where film stars and local artists have made their home. Visitthe Saint-Firmain Palace cellars, the Sénanque Abbey and the Village des Bories. CV Travel’s La Petite Gordesis a charming two bedroom stone town house with a large private pool, just 5 minutes walk from the centre ofGordes, and driving distance fromthe beautiful town of Bonnieux and the city of Avignon.

La Petit Gordes can be booked through CV Travel (020 7401 1044,www.cvtravel.co.uk) A 7 night stay in La Petite Gordes costs from £2,360 to £3,655 per week including villa hire and maid service, for up to 4 guests sharing. Return flights, transfers and car hire can be arranged on request.

http://www.cvtravel.co.uk/en/destinations/europe/france/provence/goult–surrounding-areas/accommodation/pages/la-petite-gordes.aspx

Windstar Cruises is offering a seven-day Greek Isles & Turkish Delights itinerary from Athens to Istanbul or reverse this spring, summer and fall on the 148-guest Wind Star and Wind Spirit. The cruises visit Mykonos, Santorini and Rhodes, Greece; and Bodrum and Kusadasi, Turkey. Fares start at $2,499 per person, double.

Included are two-for-one savings and plus two free hotel nights on select sailings if the cruise is booked by Feb. 24. Guests sailing from Istanbul also receive complimentary arrival transfers via private Mercedes vehicle from Istanbul airport to any of the city’s hotels, plus a welcome package, bottled water and an English-speaking escort.

In celebration of the launch of its new ships and new itineraries, Variety Cruises, the global small ship cruise company, announces 10 to 20% off fares and free land pre-and post-cruise tours (where noted) on 2012 itineraries for bookings made by February 29, 2012.

The company, which got its start in Greece and the Greek Islands, is positioned as a leader in a time when the cruise industry is at its most difficult. New 2012 itineraries include stops in buzzed-about hotspots such as Abu Dhabi, Dubrovnik and the fascinating island of Malta, in addition to its popular sails through Greece and the Mediterranean.

Please note: reservations must specify VC1-2012 Special Offer and cannot be combined with any existing or future offers. Port charges are excluded from these discounts and all reservations are on a first come first served basis.

For more information, please visit www.varietycruises.com  or call 1-800-319-7776 (US) and 1-866-944-8498 (Canada).

Deals on New 2012 Cruises

DODECANESE MOSAIC: Travel aboard the Panorama three-masted sail cruiser embarking from Rhodes or Aghios Nikolaos sailing through the beautiful ports of Bodrum, Santorini and the islands of Karpathos and Amorgos. Begins June 19, 2012.

• 10% reduction on cruise fares plus two nights FREE pre or post cruise stay at a four-star hotel in Rhodes or Aghios Nikolaos OR a 20% reduction on cruise fares

• Regular fares begin at $2,390 USD per person, per week

ROMANTIC RIVERAS: The French and Italian Rivieras come to life as the new 223-foot Variety Voyager mega yacht travels through chic hotspots such as Nice, St. Tropez, Portofino, Monte Carlo and more. Begins July 14, 2012.

• 20% reduction on cruise fares

• Regular fares begin at $2,990 USD per person, per week

TREASURES OF SOUTH ITALY AND MALTA: Crystal blue waters and ancient history await travelers aboard the new Variety Voyager mega yacht as it cruises around Sicily exploring Taormina, Syracuse, Agrigento and Cephalu, with stops on the islands of Capri, Malta and Lipari.

Begins September 15, 2012.

• 20% reduction on cruise fares

• Regular fares begin at $2,990 USD per person, per week

THE ADRIATIC ODYSSEY: Travel the Ionian and Adriatic Seas aboard the Harmony G setting sail from Dubrovnik or Corfu. Discover the hidden and historical treasures of Croatia, Albania and Montenegro.

Begins July 22, 2012.

• 10% reduction on cruise fares and two nights free pre or post cruise stay in a four-star hotel in Dubrovnik or Corfu or 20% reduction on cruise fares

• Regular fares begin at $2,690 USD per person, per week

ARABIAN JOURNEYS: Experience the wonders of the Arabian Gulf and the Omani Coast departing from Abu Dhabi to Muscat aboard the new Variety Voyager mega yacht.

Begins November 29, 2012.

• 20% reduction on cruise fares

• Regular fares begin at $2,790 USD per person, per week

Deals on 2012 Greek Cruises

ANTIQUITY TO BYZANTIUM: Discover the treasures of Ancient Greece aboard the Harmony G; the trip starts in Athens and includes visits to the tombs at Mycenae, Olympia and the spectacular Oracle Temple of Delphi.

Begins March 23, 2012.

• 10% reduction on all cruise fares and two night FREE pre or post cruise stay at a four-star hotel in Athens, OR 20% reduction on cruise fares

• Regular fares begin at $1,590 USD per person, per week

JEWEL OF THE CYCLADES: Board in Athens on the M/S Galileo, a classic steel motor sailer, en route to the Aegean Islands with stops in Santorini, Mykonos and off the beaten path islands such as Paros and Folegandros. Begins April 13, 2012.

• 10% reduction on all cruise fares and two night FREE pre or post cruise stay at a four-star hotel in Athens, OR 20% reduction on cruise fares

• Regular fares begin at $2,150 USD per person, per week.

CLASSICAL GREECE: Board the Harmony V mega yacht in Athens and explore stops in Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, the hidden-gem island of Kythira and more. Begins April 20, 2012.

• 10% reduction on all cruise fares and two night FREE pre or post cruise stay at a four-star hotel in Athens, OR 15% reduction on cruise fares

• Regular fares begin at $2,835 USD per person, per week

AEGEAN ODYSSEY: Cruise through the Aegean Islands and Turkey aboard the Panorama (spring/fall) or Panorama II (summer) experiencing the sights and sounds of the Mediterranean’s rich cultural heritage. Begins April 20, 2012.

• 10% reduction on all cruise fares and two nights FREE pre or post cruise stay at a four-star hotel in Athens OR 20% reduction on all cruise fares

 Regular fares begin at $2,655 USD for spring/fall cruises and $2,950 USD for summer cruises per person, per week

TURQUOISE COAST & ISLANDS OF THE EASTERN AEGEAN: The splendor of the Turquoise Coast of Turkey and Greek Islands awaits travelers aboard the Panorama II as it travels through Marmaris, Rhodes, Symi, Patmos and more. Begins April 27, 2012.

• Two nights FREE pre or post cruise stay at a four-star hotel in Istanbul and a 15% reduction on all cruise fares

• Regular fares begin at $1,990 USD per person, per week

Protect your cruise investment with Trip Cancellation Insurance from Seven Corners at www.sevencorners.com

Exclusive free yoga classes for Aldemar guests in July 2012

LOOKING for a holiday that will leave you feeling calm, flexible and fit? Then take advantage of the free yoga classes that Aldemar Hotels & Spa are offering guests in July and head over to the beautiful island of Crete.

The complimentary yoga classes are aimed at all levels and will take place at the 5* Aldemar Royal Mare. There will be two 90 minute sessions per day with the morning session designed for preparing body and spirit for the day ahead and the evening session specifically focused on relaxation and stretching as guests wind down from the day’s activities.

This is the second summer season that Aldemar Hotels & Spa has offered free Yoga classes and they are a great option for both beginners and advanced Yogis. The classes are open to all Aldemar guests staying at any of their four properties in Crete, and will take place at the Royal Mare under the expert tuition of Bernadette Langer, a professional Jivamukti teacher.

The Yoga Summer programme takes place from 11 – 31 July 2011. The group sessions are free to guests however private classes are also available for those that would rather workout on their own. Prices for the private classes are €69 for a 60 minute session or €90 for a 90 minute session. Guests should bring their own yoga mats, although beginners will be able to borrow a mat if they don’t have their own.

Aldemar Hotels (www.aldemarhotels.com) offer a choice of four luxury hotels in Anissaras, on the outskirts of Hersonissos – the 5* Royal Mare, the 5* Knossos Royal, the 5* Royal Villas and the 4* all-inclusive Cretan Village. All offer excellent accommodation and facilities, as well as access to the award-winning Royal Mare Thalasso Spa (one of the top ten thalasso spas in the world), the Aldemar Tennis Club open from April until October and the brand new Aldemar Golf Academy.

Classic Collection Holidays (www.classic-collection.co.uk  0800 294 9318 ) offers 7 nights at the Aldemar Royal Mare, Crete from £914 per person. Price based on 2 adults sharing a garden view room on a half board basis and includes return flights from London Gatwick to Heraklion and private transfers. Departs 11 July. Book before 31 March 2012 to enjoy savings of up to £168 per couple per week.

Astarte Suites is a spectacular 9-suite complex designed by Aygoustis Krousis and located on a cliff on the beautiful Santorini Island in Greece. Small, but with impeccable services, infinity pool, and unforgettable views, the hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway.

Here is an excerpt from the official description from the architects:

“Magic is in the details at Astarte Suites, beginning with the twinkling Swarovski stones that adorn the ceiling above each suite’s Jacuzzi pool, ending with the personalized service each guest enjoys. Surrounded by soothing shades of white and stone, guests are sure to find bliss here. During their precious down time, guests can relax and unwind next to Astarte’s stunning turquoise infinity swimming pool, which overlooks the Aegean Sea’s tranquil blue waters and nearby rocky cliffs. Leisure and cultural options abound nearby, such as in Akrotiri, an ancient city buried and preserved by volcanic ash-known as the Pompeii of the Greek islands-and at Red Beach and White Beach, the ultimate locales for a spectacular day of fun in the sun”.

Astarte Suites Hotel
Caldera – Akrotiri
Santorini island
Greece

For further information please contact:

George Moschotis
Τel.: +30 2286083388
Fax: +30 2286082585
info@astartesuites.gr
http://www.astartesuites.gr
Reservations: https://astartesuites.reserve-online.net/

We have lots to shout about in 2012! Not only are we celebrating our 10th anniversary, offering quality holidays to Greece and her islands but we have also been awarded for them at the British Travel Awards 2011 winning “Best Independent Tour Operator to Hellenic Europe”.

So as you can imagine we are delighted to announce the release of our 10th Anniversary and award winning holiday brochure featuring an inspirational collection of exclusive properties in some of the most picturesque locations Greece and her beautiful islands have to offer. Our superb collection of diverse accommodation includes waterside apartments, stylish villas with pools, small enough for couple, large enough for families or perhaps an elegant boutique hotel is your preference, we have something for everyone and prices to suit every budget.

Choose from Kefalonia, Ithaka, Lefkada, Meganisi, Corfu, Paxos, Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and the lesser known Pelion Peninsula. New for 2012 we have added some fabulous new villas on Kefalonia, Ithaka, Lefkada, Paxos, Corfu, Skopelos & Alonissos, all handpicked with our clients holiday in mind and exclusive to Ionian & Aegean Island Holidays.

Our 2012 holidays commence on 28th April to Kefalonia and Ithaka, a perfect time for that spring break to get away from it all departing Gatwick and Manchester and all other destinations the following week operating on a weekly rotation through to October half-term departing 20th October 2012.

With 7night prices starting from under £500pp including car hire, it’s never been a better time to book with your Greek Island Specialists – Ionian & Aegean Island Holidays.

Contact us on 020 8459 0777 or visit our website www.ionianislandholidays.com

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Intrepid Travel is adding a new range of exciting trips to its repertoire with small group Sailing adventures in Croatia, Greece and Thailand launching in 2012.

In creating a streamlined, easy-to-book product, Intrepid has opened up the world of small group sailing for travellers wanting to experience Europe and South East Asia from sea level with a trusted operator. It makes the option of a sailing holidays available to both groups and solo travellers who can book a single berth on the boat.

In true Intrepid style, the 11 new Sailing itineraries will drop anchor at some of the world’s favourite island playgrounds as well as some lesser known, hidden spots. With a high quality boat, experienced crew, meals and snorkelling equipment included, passengers are free to swim, snorkel and kayak while at sea, and hike, rock climb, dine and relax while on land.

The itineraries may be fixed but flexibility is still a key feature with passengers given the choice of helping to sail the boat or lie on deck with a book. Equal freedom is given to the stops on land, where visits to ruins, restaurants, bars or beaches are left up to the discretion of the passengers.

“We’re really pleased to add sailing adventures to our ever-growing list of trips. This new product means we are able to offer our loyal fans and new friends a classic experience with an Intrepid twist. Consumer demand for small group sailing trips is strong and we are confident these fantastic trips will provide people with a fun, safe and hassle-free way to sail in Europe and South East Asia” said James Thornton, Intrepid Travel’s General Manager, Global Sales.

Some of the new Sailing itineraries include:

Phuket to Ko Phi Phi Sailing
Starts from: AUD755 (per person)

Sail Greece – Cyclades Islands
Starts from: AUD1850 (per person)

Sail Greece – Ionian Sea
Starts from: AUD1450 (per person)

Sail Greece – Santorini to Mykonos
Starts from: AUD1450 (per person)

Sail Greece – Vounaki to Kefallonia
Starts from: AUD825 (per person)

Sail Croatia – Dubrovnik to Primosten
Starts from: AUD1450 (per person)

Villas of Distinction added new private homes to its collection ranging from a three-bedroom Santorini hideaway to a surreal seven-bedroom property in Marbella, Spain.

Additionally, the company is touting a variety of special offers with discounted rates and limited-time perks.

“The value a villa vacation presents to travelers is unprecedented, with inclusions only VIPs and celebrities can typically afford,” said Steve Lassman, vice president and general manager of Villas of Distinction.

\\“In comparison to a traditional hotel stay, a villa rental lets couples, families and groups save money while enjoying extra space, stress-busting amenities and the comforts of home.”

The newest properties added to Villas of Distinction’s collection include properties in Baan Chirawan, Thailand (Phuket), Bambu, Jamaica (Montego Bay), Gran Villa San Pietro, Spain (Marbella), Il Cigna del Lago, Italy (Lake Como), La Maison 1809, Greece (Santorini) and Le Chemin, France (St. Tropez).

For more information, call 800-289-0900 or email

info@villasofdistinction.com 

On the occasion of the 300th birthday anniversary of King Frederick the Great, the man who established Prussia as a European powerhouse and created the palaces and gardens of Potsdam, the exhibition “Friederisiko” is to take place from April 28 to Oct. 28 in the “New Palace” in Potsdam.

Only 20 minutes from Berlin, Potsdam is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an artistic masterpiece comprising 12 palaces, including Frederick’s summer palace Sanssouci, and three arranged garden landscapes of architectural and horticultural variety idyllically nestled in the many woods and scenic lakes of the River Havel.

Through the Seven Years Wars from 1756 to 1763 that Frederick initiated with his neighbors, mainly with Austria to the south, he redefined the boundaries of the Prussian state and of Europe.

Yet, he was also a man who earlier in his life composed over 100 sonatas for the flute, promoted the art of poetry and had the New Palace created complete with silk, damask and brocade wallpaper, unique wooden floors and beautiful furniture.

Organized by the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg (SPSG), the exhibition extends in total over 6,000 square meters and presents both the man and the personality of King Frederick the Great in his most magnificent palace building.

The discovery tour about Frederick goes through 70 interiors — some accessible for the first time — at the New Palace, as well as in Sanssouci Park.

The exhibition is divided into 12 themes related to the king and his era. In addition to exquisite original interiors and exhibits shown for the first time, a contemporary artist will bring a room in one of the suites to life with a spectacular installation. A Prussian king can be discovered alongside unknown palace interiors that he planned in every detail. The exhibition lasts from April 28 to Oct. 28 in the New Palace in Potsdam.