Jetsettersblog

THE REGENT MALDIVES FACT SHEET The Regent Maldives is surrounded by white-sand beaches, lush vegetation and the wonders of nature in Thaa Atoll. The island compromises 50 individual beach and over-water accommodations, rich with natural wood, stone and indigenous materials that reflect the flavour of the Maldives. This is the place to kick off your shoes and do exactly what you want.

We, at The Regent Maldives are uncompromising in our commitment to quality and to providing luxury for all the senses. Guests become engaged by sincere personal attention and discreet service gestures, which transform their visit to an experience - The Regent Experience.

All accommodations, the most spacious in the Maldives, feature a private landscaped terrace with sun loungers and plunge pool, a semi open bathroom with deep soaking tub and a private exotic outdoor garden shower. High-tech comforts include 42” and 37” LCD televisions in the living and bed rooms, Bose Lifestyle System featuring DVD/CD player with iPod docking station, a N’espresso coffee machine and a fully stocked private bar. A well-defined work area features wired and wireless high-speed Internet access.

14 Beach Pavilions (265sqm) and 9 Beach Villas (310sqm)

Facing the azure lagoon, the stand-alone beach pavilions and villas are spacious and surrounded by lush tropical gardens with a private plunge pool and a covered day bed. Featuring a foyer, spacious living and dining areas including a comfortable sofa bed and tasteful teak furniture.

The beach villas offer more space with a separate bedroom while the smaller pavilions have the bedroom adjoining the living area. The bedroom overlooks the lagoon and features a four-poster bed, a comfortable sofa and a 37” LCD television. All bedrooms have a dressing room area with extensive hanging space, deep drawers and dressing table. The separate dressing area leads to a large semi open bathroom that is an experience on its own. A deep soaking tub - big enough for two - is an invitation to romantic preludes. The outdoor rainforest shower beneath the sky or alternative indoor shower overlooking the private garden offers a true Maldivian experience.

12 Ocean Pavilions (230sqm) and 13 Ocean Villas (245sqm)
From the private over-water pavilions and villas built on stilts, guests may peer directly below into the waters of the turquoise lagoon and be inspired by the sea life swimming beneath them.

The ocean pavilions and villas are perfectly located for memorable sunrises and romantic sunset’s offering unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean. Out on the water with private sundecks, staircases lead to the turquoise waters offering guests direct access to the lagoon. Adding Maldivian flair to style, each pavilion and villa features endless views.

Outdoor lounging areas have extensive decks for basking in the sun, a covered pool side day bed and outdoor shower. The spacious interior features tasteful living and dining areas, overlooking the plunge pool.

The bedroom, adjacent to the living room has floor-to-ceiling glass and wood doors that slide back to reveal the private deck. The ocean villa’s living area is slightly larger and features a separate and more spacious living room. The semi open bathroom unites the best in architecture and nature. Rejuvenate in a deep soaking tub and experience a sensuous and intimate mood. The outdoor rainforest shower beneath the sky or alternative separate glass-enclosed shower offer a sensuous experience.

2 Ocean Residences (655sqm)

The two-bedroom ocean residences offer one of the finest Maldivian over-water experiences. Located on the North West tip of this island, vistas are unobstructed and inspiring in all directions of the amazing lagoon. Perfect for privacy and relaxation, the residences are overlaid with a sense of peaceful seclusion in tranquil décor. The spacious living room opens onto a furnished deck that is ideal for entertaining or relaxing on the oversize daybed. Ample living space is offered with two bedrooms, dining facilities that seat 8, guest toilet, a library office, and full kitchen. The master bedroom features its own private living area and sun deck. The ocean residences have two full bath suites, each with a separate rain shower and an exotic outdoor shower. For added convenience, the ocean residences offer an option of gym and massage facilities within the residence.

Category Available units Occupancy based on Rates
Beach Pavilion 14 2 adults
Beach Villa 9 2 adults
Ocean Pavilion 12 2 adults
Ocean Villa 13 2 adults
Ocean Residence 2 4 adults

Each category also includes the following features:
• Two satellite LCD televisions
• Bose Lifestyle System featuring DVD/CD player and iPod docking station
• Complimentary high-speed wired and wireless internet access
• Multi-line IDD telephone with voice mail
• Electronic safe
• Fully stocked private bar
• N’espresso coffee machine
• Tea making facility
• Dedicated sun lounges on the beach and deck
• Private veranda
• Private plunge pool
• Covered pool side day bed
• Direct lagoon access
• Spacious semi-open bathroom with dual vanities and indoor and outdoor shower
• Individual climate control for lounge, bedroom and bathroom
• Ceiling fans

Floor plans of each category are available upon request.

JENNER, Calif. — Timber Cove Inn, www.timbercoveinn.com, perched on a majestic cliff along the ruggedly scenic Sonoma Coast, has just completed a $2.5 million renovation that includes new carpet, drapes, bedding, linens and furniture in all of the rooms. The lobby, bar and restaurant have also been refurbished, and an outdoor patio and fire pit have been added to overlook the Pacific Ocean. The idyllic Inn, located 14 miles north of Jenner where the Russian River meets the ocean and one hour drive west of Santa Rosa, features stunning views, a massive stone fireplace, and spa tubs and fireplaces in most rooms to create an atmosphere of total relaxation.

Also new to the Inn is celebrated Chef Jon Mortimer, most recently executive chef and owner of Mortimer’s/Franco Latino, whose frequent media appearances included a recent interview and culinary demonstration on The Today Show. Before joining Timber Cove Inn, his restaurants garnered numerous national and local awards.

Mortimer will head the kitchen of the Hotel’s restaurant, Alexander’s at Timber Cove.
Alexander’s features an innovative menu with sumptuous Tuscan cuisine. The Fall 2008 Tasting Menu includes culinary delights along the lines of the Mushroom Cappuccino, with local wild mushrooms, truffled milk foam and fresh nutmeg, and the Hazelnut crusted pork with pinot noir reduction.

The Hotel, which originally opened in 1963, was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Most of the 50 guest rooms feature decks that overlook stunning ocean views. All have been refurbished to feature flat screen TV, robes, and new bed treatments.

The public is invited to watch for the debut of Timber Cove Inn’s grand opening packages that will be featured at www.timbercoverinn.com - as well as special event dinners, including wine pairings.

Nearby, art lovers will be inspired by Benjamin Bufano’s awesome obelisk sculpture titled “Peace.” The renowned Italian-American sculptor also created the iconic statue of St. Francis for the city of San Francisco.

Reservations at Timber Cove Inn can be booked online at www.timbercoveinn.com  or by calling Toll Free: 800-987-8319 or 707-847-3231.

For complete hotel descriptions, locations and reservations at Pacifica Hotels, call 800-720-0223, or visit www.pacificahotels.com. Nobody knows the coast like Pacifica. But, you’re invited to learn…

PARK CITY, UT - Following up one of its most successful seasons in 25 years isn’t the easiest of milestones to beat. But the 2009 U.S. Cross Country Ski team is four competitions into its World Cup season and ready to hit its stride to compete for another page in the annals of history.

“We had our best winter in 25 years of U.S. cross country skiing, and this past summer was even better than the summer before for training. We had great camps, great head-to-head training sessions, and all of our athletes were obviously at a higher level than before,” said Cross Country Head Coach Pete Vordenberg. “So, we have higher expectations this season to have some podium results on the World Cup and a podium at World Championships.”

The Team, which experienced a good amount of World Cup podium success in the 2008 season, has focused on training throughout the summer months to prepare for what it feels can be another monumental season.

“Our World Cup skiers have had tremendous off season training, they are fit, healthy and fired up to test themselves against the rest of the World Cup athletes,” Nordic Program Director John Farra said. “While training can be perfect and testing results point to improved results, the only true measure is the weekly battles with the rest of the world’s best.”

According to Vordenberg, on the whole, the focus for the Team is to pace itself for success.

“This year we are looking at being in Europe, adjusting, training well, and hitting the World Cups with performance at the forefront of our minds. It’s the same for World Championships,” Vordenberg said. “Our preparation has been focused on achieving great results at specific events mostly because looking toward the Olympics, it’s one race on one day and we have to learn to peak for specific events.”

Among the athletes to watch are World Cup performers Kris Freeman (Andover, NH), Andy Newell (Shaftsbury, VT), Torin Koos (Leavenworth, WA), Chris Cook (Rhinelander, WI) and Kikkan Randall (Anchorage, AK).

Geared up and ready to put on a show for the women is Randall who, last season, became the first woman to win a modern day FIS World Cup in a sprint at Rybinsk, Russia December 2007. It also was the first U.S. victory in cross country since Bill Koch in 1983. American Allison Owen-Spencer last won in 1978, before the FIS established the permanent World Cup series.

“I’m looking forward to making sure I am prepared for all the sprints on the schedule this year. Last year there were three skate sprints and this year there are six and one at World Championships,” Randall said. “The fact that I did well in the skate sprints and won makes me feel strongly that I can win. I’m looking forward to winning some more World Cups this year.”

Randall began her World Cup season in Kuusamo, Finland, finishing 33rd in her first sprint and 23rd in a 10K. Her competition travels then took her to Davos, Switzerland, where, after an unlucky tangle with another athlete, she was 26th. She will be one of the favorites in this weekend’s Dusseldorf sprints.

Another athlete who has been preparing heavily after landing on the World Cup podium in Finland last March is Newell who aims for the top of the podium each weekend.

“Last year’s second place finish has motivated me a lot because I know I have what it takes, but this year I’m going for a win,” Newell said. “It’s hard to say how I will stack up in the overall, but I’m going to try to take it one World Cup at a time and see what I can do. If it’s classic or skate, I’m going to try to win each weekend.”

Newell kicked off the season with some good momentum, finishing 11th in a sprint in Kuusamo, but an unexpected slip as he was in the lead at the top of the race hill in Davos, Switzerland, pushed him back to 26th.

With World Championships coming over the horizon, Newell also says that part of his plan is to hit a stride that has him at his best for the title event - a competition he has spent his whole training period focusing on.

“My preparation for this season has been more focused than ever before. My coaches and I have tried to simplify our training a little bit to try and figure out what kind of intervals work best for me and how to peak best for World Champs,” Newell said. “That’s the main focus for the year - the sprint at World Champs.”

Backing up the World Cup Team in its pursuit of success is the Continental Cup Team, which features athletes Liz Stephen (East Montpelier, VT), who took the bronze medal at the U23 World Championships, marking her first international medal, and Garrott Kuzzy (Hayward, WI), who had back-to-back wins during the Madison, WI, SuperTour.

For now, however, the athletes plan to take it one day at a time as a Team.

“This is going to be an exciting year. I think our team has come a long way as a whole.” Randall said. “As well as my individual World Cup, I’m just excited for a year as a team because I think we’re going to have a lot of success on all levels. I’m just excited to be a part of it.”

World Extreme surfing champion Garrett McNamara reveals his secrets to big wave surfing at http://www.YogaforSurfers.com.

“Some of my friends think I’m a madman. But I like seeking out and surfing the most dangerous waves that I can find,” says McNamara, speaking to Peggy Hall at http://www.YogaforSurfers.com.

From Hawaii to Alaska and everywhere in between, big-wave charger Garrett McNamara puts himself in such heavy situations that we mortals can only look at him in awe — not even envy — unless that is, you like wondering if you’re going to make it through your next surf session alive.

How does he do it? What in nature’s name gives this extreme surfing world champion such laser focus, drive, tenacity, toughness and sheer I-Know-I-Can-Do-This confidence? Just exactly what does he do to stay in such amazing shape for big-wave surfing?

Now you can find out. McNamara himself lays it all out in a just-released video clip right at http://www.YogaforSurfers.com

Listen in as he tells Peggy Hall his secret weapon for feeling “confident and secure” in life-threatening surf.

The good news is that even if you can’t surf the unfathomable waves that Garrett does, at least you can benefit from one of his training tools.

More secrets to better surfing are revealed at http://www.YogaforSurfers.com

Just when we thought Amanyara had every possible desire covered, the secluded villa resort in the Turks & Caicos Islands has raised the bar even higher.

Now, in addition to a wide range of beauty, relaxation and wellness services available in the privacy of Amanyara’s accommodations, guests have the option of visiting a Serenity Villa where the surroundings, elegant in their simplicity, add to a total sense of comfort and well being.

Massages, scrubs, wraps and beauty treatments, along with yoga and Pilates classes, are the order of the day in the villa.

The Serenity Villa, wrapped around its own swimming pool, features a reception area and four separate treatment pavilions.

Guests are received in a spacious lounge pavilion where herbal tea and health drinks are served before and/or after treatments. Each treatment pavilion can accommodate one couple and features a changing area with double vanities, a soaking tub and a “rain” shower. Two of the pavilions feature sunken outdoor terrazzo bathtubs and showers set within the walls of a small garden. There is a separate sala providing shade from the sun and a studio equipped with a Reformer for private Pilates or yoga sessions.

“The Serenity Villa affords us an opportunity to bring the best wellness and fitness practices to our guests,” states Steve Harvey, Spa Manager of Amanyara. “Our luxurious treatments and personalized fitness classes are conducted in a stunning villa for an experience that is truly relaxing … and beautiful to boot.”

A menu of massages is available to restore balance, release muscle tension and increase circulation including a Deep Tissue Massage and exotic offerings such as the Shiatsu or Ancient Thai Massage based on teachings from the East. Luxurious body treatments incorporate Amanresorts’ custom-blended products made from natural and locally-sourced ingredients such as a Kaffir Lime Body Scrub and Massage and a Jojoba Bead Scrub and Wrap. Facials and therapeutic after-sun treatments are also available.

Fitness aficionados can focus on yoga and Pilates with complimentary yoga classes scheduled three times per week. Mat Pilates classes, conducted in a group or private setting, and individual Reformer classes are also an option. A knowledgeable “Master in Residence” is on staff to guide guests through the latest holistic healing practices.

For some, the most important Serenity Villa services of all are manicures, pedicures, hair styling, make-up and waxing, all of which can also be accommodated in the individual guest pavilions or villas.

For more information,please visit www.amanresorts.com

 

Opened in October 2008, Desert Islands Resort & Spa is situated on Sir Bani Yas Island the once-private Royal Nature Reserve established by the late ruler and founder of the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The exclusive resort is surrounded by the wild vastness of the island, transformed into an ecologically-viable, wild-life rich natural preserve and scenic retreat.

At the Desert Islands Resort & Spa, experience a unique brand of service inspired by the local traditions of hospitality and culture. Situated along the resplendent coast line of Sir Bani Yas Island, the hotel-resort offers 64 luxuriously designed rooms with living quarters decked out in state-of-the-art amenities and styled with eye-catching Arabian touches like marble bath-fixtures. Here, wake-up to the alluring melodies of a thousand bird songs and the spectacular view of the distant sea and surrounding natural reserves; while your enclave slowly gets drenched in the warmth of the island’s natural sunlight.

For the ultimate royal indulgence choose one of Desert Islands Resort & Spa’s regal retreats - the two Royal Villas and two Beach Villas come equipped with the best standards of luxury services including a 24/7 butler. These airy abodes feature two bedrooms, living and lounge space, kitchenette, dining area, private splash pools and boast direct access to the beach.

The beautiful and supremely intimate Safaa Spa has four treatment rooms – two for couples and two for individuals - each of them spacious and all offering a wide range of world-renowned luxurious indulgences. Choose from an array of natural treatments - Thai massage, aromatherapy, Ayurvedic therapies, rich facials, and lavish body treatments and scrubs all using the finest ingredients – as well as treatments based on the healing and beautifying properties of gemstones and precious metals. Facilities include a private outdoor relaxation area, separate male and female changing areas, sauna and steam rooms.

Benefit from the well-informed local staff in scoping out pursuits of all sorts throughout the resort. For those with gastronomic adventures in mind, relish the joys of a delectable seafood menu and a waterfront view at Desert Islands’ signature restaurant Samak. Or sample the local cuisine and take the taste buds on a mouth-watering global trip at the tropically-inspired Palm Restaurant.

For lighter bites stop by The Deli and indulge in an outstanding variety of gourmet coffee. Enjoy your favourite beverage and the rich and colourful sea views in the tranquil and private Lounge Bar , situated on the Mezzanine level.

After a day of exploration, enjoy a refreshing beverage from Al Shams Pool Bar over-looking the cerulean waters of the Arabian Sea or relax in the one of the shaded quarters of the hotel pool – cool, private nooks sheltered and divided by exotic plants for visitors to unwind in privacy. For those with extra energy, other facilities include tennis courts equipped with night-playing technology and a health club that’s open around the clock.

The Desert Islands Resort and Spa tastefully merges a luxurious lifestyle experience with a memorable life experience. Combining the beautiful natural reserves of Sir Bani Yas Island and the demand for quality destination activities, the resort is at the forefront of environment based tourism featuring guided tours along some of the region’s most exciting trails and snorkeling into the pristine reefs. Desert Islands Resort & Spa can arrange a number of pursuits ranging from snorkeling to mountain biking to kayaking, tailored to each guest’s specific physical and recreational requirements.

Discovery, Adventure, Culture and Luxury define the Desert Islands experience

 

Yasawa Island Resort and Spa has extended its three-for-two offer until the end of March, giving a tempting excuse to stay a little longer at one of Fiji’s most exclusive island retreats.

Plus, the resort will continue to offer special rates for Australians in Aussie dollars, providing a further saving of more than 25 per cent on standard US dollar rates*.

Yasawa’s offer of three nights for the price of two is available until March 31, 2009 (except December 15 to January 15) and can be taken in any multiple – six nights for the price of four, nine nights for the price of six, and so on.

Yasawa Island Resort and Spa is one of Fiji’s most remote luxury retreats, with just 18 contemporary thatched bungalows hidden among the palms along a stretch of pristine white beach.

The resort is home to Fiji’s first beachfront spa centre, the Baravi Spa, offering indulgent treatments and massages just a few steps from the ocean’s edge. Its signature massage is the Baravi Rhythm, performed by two therapists working in time with the sound of the waves.

Yasawa’s three-for-two offer is for new bookings only, subject to availability, and cannot be combined with other specials. Rates at Yasawa start from A$970 per couple per night (plus 17.5% taxes) and include all meals, non-alcoholic drinks and all activities except spa treatments, scuba diving and sportsfishing.

For bookings, full details and conditions contact Yasawa Island Resort and Spa by phone on +679 6722 266 or email reservations@yasawa.com.fj  See also www.yasawa.com

*Calculated at November 24 exchange rate, A$1 = US$0.63.

A one week holiday to the Red Sea coast of Egypt is now available from Explorers for £199 per person, a saving of £250 on the brochure price. Available on Sunday 14th December from London Gatwick or Manchester to Sharm El Sheikh.

Package includes return flights, airport transfers and 7 nights bed & breakfast accommodation at the 3 star Ocean Club Hotel in Sharm El Sheikh. All rooms are air-conditioned and en-suite and facilities at the hotel include 2 swimming pools, restaurant, pool bar and a PADI 5 star diving centre. Prices are based on 2 people sharing a twin/double room. Single supplement £63. Flight supplement payable of £22 for Gatwick or £32 Manchester.

Explorers, founded in 1980 – part of the Tui Travel group - are a specialist tour operator offering scuba diving holidays all over the world.

For availability and bookings call 01276 406 877

North Carolina Vacation Rental Firm Takes The Guess-Work Out Of Booking A Vacation

Now vacationers can search our website and know the price they see if the price they are charged. As a company, Outer Banks Blue believes that All-Inclusive pricing will not only be simpler for our guests, but will become the standard pricing model for the Vacation Rental Industry

Outer Banks Blue

Vacation Rentals and Real Estate in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina
KITTY HAWK, NC, December 26, 2008 /24-7PressRelease/ — Outer Banks Blue, a leading vacation rental and real estate firm headquartered in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina has announced that for the 2009 rental season they have implemented an ‘All-Inclusive’ pricing structure designed to help vacationers make easier and more informed decisions when renting a professionally managed vacation home. All pricing on vacation rentals on the Outer Banks Blue website (www.OuterBanksBlue.com) will now include all fees with the exception of taxes and optional travel insurance.

“In response to requests from our guests, our team at Outer Banks Blue has implemented an ‘All-Inclusive’ pricing structure. In light of today’s economic situation, more and more vacationers have a set budget for travel and our new pricing will make their search for the perfect vacation property easier and quicker. No longer will they have to worry about such items as: Administration/Handling Fee; Linen Charges;

 
Damage Waiver Fees or even Cleaning Fees as we have built them into our pricing structure. Now vacationers can search our website and know the price they see if the price they are charged. As a company, Outer Banks Blue believes that All-Inclusive pricing will not only be simpler for our guests, but will become the standard pricing model for the Vacation Rental Industry,” stated Tim Cafferty, President of Outer Banks Blue Realty.

Outer Banks Blue is a full service Vacation Rental Firm which serves vacationers throughout the United States, Canada and Europe. In operation since 2005, the family owned and operated Outer Banks Blue provides professionally managed vacation homes and condominiums in the Outer Banks of North Carolina including the towns of Corolla; Duck; Kill Devil Hills; Kitty Hawk; Nags Head and Southern Shores.

Vacationers with Outer Banks Blue are able to choose from Oceanfront to Soundfront and all areas in between and have numerous amenity options including private pools; hot tubs; high speed internet access and even pet-friendly properties. Outer Banks Blue provides all guests with needed linens including fully made beds and towels for all guests based on the advertised number of people a property will accommodate.

The Outer Banks Blue website (www.OuterBanksBlue.com)  offers vacationers the ability to search and book online with real-time availability by choosing location, type of property and amenities as well as of course check-in date. Last minute vacationers should review the online specials page to peruse properties offering discounts to vacationers.

The Outer Banks of North Carolina and the nearly two-hundred vacation rentals offered by Outer Banks Blue are convenient to many metropolitan areas including: Charlotte, NC; Washington DC; Richmond VA; Raleigh/Durham, NC; Columbia, SC and Baltimore, MD. Outer Banks Blue is currently accepting reservations for the 2009 rental season.

About Outer Banks Blue

Outer Banks Blue was formed by Tim Cafferty in 2005 after over 25 years in property management on the Outer Banks. With experience in both a smaller, family operated company that evolved into a leader on the Outer Banks in occupancy numbers and technology under his expertise and in the management of a nationally recognized, publicly owned corporation boasting one of the largest inventories of homes on the Outer Banks his vision of a more personalized management opportunity developed into the conception of Outer Banks Blue Real Estate Services.

Experience and reputation in the area for attention to detail and integrity along with a team of experienced and dedicated personnel has brought Outer Banks Blue into the forefront of rental companies. With an original goal of 50 homes easily surpassed in two months of operation, it became very clear it would be necessary to promote this vision with a dedication to their clients for responsible growth, and a dedication to their customers with quality homes. Therefore, the decision was made very early to be selective in the properties and areas they represent.

Today, Outer Banks Blue represents nearly 200 premier vacation rental properties in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

For more information on Outer Banks Blue Real Estate services and to experience a taste of their personal, quality service, visit the on the web at www.OuterBanksBlue.com  email them at info@OuterBanksBlue.com  or call 866.546.0596.

Hilton Grand Vacations’ Grand Waikikian has opened as part of the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa. The all-suite timeshare property will primarily accommodate owners and provide rental suites to visitors. The 331-unit, all-suite property features one-, two- and three-bedroom suites on 38 floors, including five floors of penthouses that offer views and a separate check-in area, concierge and lounge. Each suite offers a private lanai, upscale furnishings, a full kitchen, a washer and dryer, luxury linens, flat-screen televisions, an entertainment system, complimentary wireless Internet access, and a deep-soaking tub. The resort’s 5,000-square-foot pool, scheduled for completion in January, will feature a waterslide, waterfalls and swim-through grotto terraces.

The Grand Waikikian is offering a Mahalo Package, which includes 10,000 Hilton HHonors bonus points, double miles with one of more than 20 airlines, and a complimentary, spa styled bathrobe. Nightly room rates start at $349 through June 15, with a four-night minimum. To book the package, call 800-446-6677 and ask for Plan Code H9.

For general information and reservations, call 888-875-4535 or visit www.hiltonfamilyhawaii.com