Planes, Trains & Automobiles: Intrepid Holiday Transport

Planes, Trains & Automobiles: Intrepid Holiday Transport

Not lucky enough to enjoy a VIP ride on Santa’s sleigh? Fret not: transportation and hotel clients around the globe are offering chic modes of transit this holiday season, from pan-India travel on a luxury train to your very own donkey chauffer in Mallorca – just steer clear from Steve Martin’s travel trips and make sure to make it home post-adventure!

La Residencia, Mallorca
www.laresidencia.com

Donkeys have always played a fundamental role in Mallorcan life, with the mules being used to transport goods to and from villages to the mountains. To honor the Mallorcan way of life, La Residencia offers guests a chance to experience the countryside with these furry friends. The donkeys will accompany guests along a new nature trail on the picturesque hillside that forms the backdrop to the historic Mallorcan manor house. Guests will pass through pinewood forests and olive groves where they will be able to take in the breathtaking views of the Tramuntana mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, pausing by a rustic shepherd’s house to enjoy a traditional Mallorcan picnic lunch, entirely made from locally sourced produce.

MSC Yacht Club, Italy

www.mscyachtclub.com  

What better way to discover the most intriguing parts of Italy – and beyond – than a privately owned, Italian cruising company who knows the region better than any other? Available aboard MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida, MSC Yacht Club rolls out the red carpet to couples, families and groups as they journey to an array of historic cities, from Genoa and Marseille to Barcelona and Casablanca. What's more, MSC Yacht Club guests receive an abundance of exclusive amenities during seven-night and longer itineraries: Italian-designed suites by renowned Italian architect and interior designer Giuseppe De Jorio; 24-hour Butler service; 24-hour Concierge; complimentary wines and spirits; complimentary fine dining in a private restaurant; and a private sundeck with pool, Jacuzzi and outdoor bar.

Forty 1° North, Newport, Rhode Island

www.41north.com

With a state-of-the-art docking and yacht service facility on par with world-class yachting destinations around the globe, Forty 1° North is the ideal getaway for luxury sailing enthusiasts.  With on-property launch boats, the hotel is able to provide harbor tours for guests seeking to experience Newport’s strong nautical history with the option of enjoying cocktails onboard with family, friends or that special someone. From afternoon leisurely trips to romantic sunset cruises, this is the perfect way to enjoy this waterfront city in style.

The Hiram Bingham Train, Peru

www.orient-express.com 

Once only accessible on foot, today there is a truly relaxing way to reach Machu Picchu: aboard the Hiram Bingham train. Complementing the legendary Orient-Express train service in Europe and Asia, the Hiram Bingham links Cusco to Machu Picchu. For many visitors a trip to Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the Hiram Bingham assures a magical journey, never to be forgotten. As passengers step on board they are surrounded by a world of polished wood, gleaming cutlery and glittering crystal.  The train is composed of two dining cars, an observation bar car and a kitchen car, and can carry up to 84 passengers. 

Cox & Kings

www.coxandkingsusa.com

As the traditional mode of transfer in the Middle East, camels are reliable and efficient for their ability to go days without water, if not necessarily the most comfortable ride. On Cox & Kings’ 12-day, 11-night “Hidden Treasures of Jordan” journey, guests enjoy a camel ride through Wadi Rum’s ancient valleys and towering weathered sandstone mountains – the most spectacular desert scenery guests are likely to see.

Saffire Freycinet, Tasmania

www.saffire-freycinet.com.au

Ready for a fast-paced blast up the coastline of Great Oyster Bay? Buckle up for Saffire’s Great Oyster Bay Blast, a thrilling boat ride on board the Saffire vessel. Cruising alongside the picturesque Hazards Beach to Schouten Passage and past Muirs Beach, the vessel is powered by three 350 horse power outboards and can reach speeds of up to 45 knots (50 miles per hour). Throughout this one-hour adventure, guests will learn about Tasmania’s extreme weather conditions and the hazardous livelihoods of some of the Bay’s past and present inhabitants. Bookings essential, cost $110 per person, minimum four people.

Qantas Airways, Australia

www.qantas.com.au

While temperatures drop across the U.S., the Southern hemisphere's summer is just getting started. Escape the five-hour turkey basting sessions with a flight aboard Qantas Airways. Passengers can jet off to Bondi Beach in style aboard an A380 with daily flights from LAX, featuring Marc Newson-designed cabins, ergonomic seating and self-serve snack stations. Travelers now have the option to depart from DFW with direct flights jetting off four times a week with daily service scheduled to begin in 2012. Skip the stove and fly in First to experience Neil Perry's culinary masterpieces, savor the award-winning Comtes de Champagne Taittinger or sleep in comfort on a fully flat Skybed. A trip Down Under promises more excitement than clean up and leftovers.

La Mamounia, Morocco

www.mamounia.com  

Why choose one mode of unique transportation when you can have it all? La Mamounia offers guests an exciting variety of ways to explore the Moroccan landscape. Offering a fleet of bespoke garnet red Jaguar Daimler's and Range Rovers, guests will be transported in comfort and style to any activity or destination. Offering a chance to see Morocco from a different perspective – thousands of feet in the air – guests can experience the magic of Marrakech by hot air balloon. La Mamounia can also arrange a helicopter ride over Marrakech, offering a bird's eye view of the medieval medina, the imposing Atlas Mountains, and the Ourkia Valley dotted with tiny Berber villages. For those who feel the need for speed, the hotel offers excursions on four-wheel 'quad bikes,' a thrill-filled way to take in the stunning scenery and African sunshine.

Hotel Cipriani, Italy

www.hotelcipriani.com

The acclaimed Orient-Express property Hotel Cipriani has partnered with Seawings tooffer guests the chance to discover Venice from the beautiful blue skies aboard a seaplane. For the price of 320 EUR per person, Cipriani guests will be escorted by a private boat from the dock of the hotel to a Cessna Caravan 208 seaplane. The plane accommodates up to nine passengers, all with window seats, to allow guests to take in the gorgeous scenery for approximately 30 minutes. In addition to the Venice Lagoon, sights include the islands of San Servolo, San Giorgio Maggiore, Giudecca, Sant’Elena, Lido, Murano, Burano and Torcello.

Maharajas’ Express, India

www.rirtl.com   

As model trains make their way around Christmas tree displays, travelers can depart on their own life-sized train journey on Maharajas' Express and explore a destination worlds apart from the usual seasonal routine. Trade in wool hats and scarves for saris and kaftans, five-star cuisine and royal elephant polo (a nice departure from Rudolph). Leave the chaos of holiday shopping behind to instead discover colorful bazaars selling an array of exotic spices, hand-woven textiles and carefully crafted toys. With four distinct journeys departing throughout November and December – Royal India, Princely India, Classical India and the newly unveiled Royal Sojourn – the only problem travelers face is choosing just one.

Paul Gauguin Cruises, French Polynesia

www.pgcruises.com

Looking to island hop without living out of a suitcase? Join Paul Gauguin Cruises to experience the beauty of the South Pacific, all from the comfort of a deluxe ocean-view stateroom. Committed to providing an extraordinary luxury cruise experience tailored to the unparalleled wonders of Tahiti, French Polynesia and the South Pacific, the m/s Paul Gauguin will transport discerning guests to explore and experience Tahitian paradise. Exciting itineraries allow guests to travel to Australia, New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga, as well as the Marquesas, Tuamotus, Cook and Society Islands.

Grand Hotel Timeo and Villa Sant'Andrea, Sicily

www.grandhoteltimeo.com www.hotelvillasantandrea.com

The winding roads of the Sicilian countryside, the backdrop of the pristine coastline…can it get any better? Thanks to the Grand Hotel Timeo and the Villa Sant’Andrea, it can. Both Orient-Express properties offer guests the opportunity to explore Sicily in their own Vintage Fiat 500. Driving solo or escorted by a personal guide, guests can choose from a variety of itineraries – from discovering the active Mount Etna, cruising through the diverse Wine Country, visiting the small fishing villages, or touring the places that Francis Ford Coppola chose to shoot the famous movie The Godfather, the rich history and culture of Sicily are just a gear shift away.

Bitter End Yacht Club, British Virgin Islands

www.beyc.com

Planes, boats and ferry rides: spend the holidays at Bitter End Yacht Club, located on the protected waters of North Sound on the sunny island of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands. Bitter End provides its guests with sailing and water sports equipment, all complimentary, including more than one-hundred watercrafts, such as Hobie sailboats, windsurfers and kayaks – all amongst some of the world’s most luxurious private yachts. Accessible only by water, it takes at least one flight and two boat trips to get to the island, where professional sailors come to play and novices learn.

Orion Expedition Cruises, Australia
www.orionexpeditions.com

Anchors away! Based in Australia, Orion Expedition Cruises provides even the most discerning travelers with opportunities to experience "the path less traveled" to destinations including remote parts of Western Australia, New Zealand and sub-Antarctica, Indonesia, Melanesia, Tasmania, Papua New Guinea and Southeast Asia. With two ships in its fleet, Orion Expedition Cruises provides onshore educational experiences led by seasoned expedition leaders and specialists including marine biologists, ornithologists and zoologists.

U.S. Media Contact
Natalie Guevara
The Brandman Agency

T: 212.683.2442

E: natalie@brandmanpr.com

Read up on Back to School Travels for Bibliophiles and Literature Buffs

Back to School Travels for Bibliophiles and Literature Buffs

Back to school time brings a sense of nostalgia long after the final dismissal bell rings.  It’s a season of renewal with new knowledge to be gained, fresh faces to meet, and most of all a time to hit the books.  Just in time, we’ve put together a list of hotels in exhilarating destinations across the globe with the best libraries and literary offerings.  Students of the world, pack your suitcases!

La Mamounia, Marrakech: www.mamounia.com

Marrakech, Morocco, steeped in literary history with its Sufi poets and novelists who have resided and passed through the ancient city, welcomes a new chapter in its literary history.  The legendary Hotel La Mamounia proudly celebrates the very best in contemporary Moroccan literature with its annual La Mamounia Literary Awards, which brings together rising Moroccan authors in a competition for the bronze trophy (and a healthy monetary prize), awarded by a panel of academics and stars of francophone literature. Guests of the hotel can judge for themselves, as leather-bound volumes of the winners’ works are permanently housed in La Mamounia’s library.

De L’Europe, Amsterdam: www.leurope.nl

Reminiscent of an ivy league library, De L’Europe is home to tomes: thousands of Dutch classics, historical novels, and non-fiction books - plus the most famous book ever about Holland -  Hans Brinker and the Silver Skates (actually written by an American, and notable for including the legendary boy who sticks his fingers in a dike) and their translations in many languages. Traditional Delft carpeting keeps the room’s volume muted. Guests may borrow a book for nighttime reading in their quarters, or discover a quiet, cozy nook around the hotel to engage their thoughts.

The Chatwal New York: www.thechatwalnyc.com

Now bookable as a guest room complete with antique bed, The Stanford White Studio is a historical Landmarked suite and is styled to look exactly like the library in the original Lambs Club, which was located on the same site as The Chatwal New York now stands. The wood-paneled, 600-square-foot suite comes complete with an original open working fireplace and private outdoor terrace with open air bar. Memorabilia from the estate of Evelyn Nesbit (‘It’ Girl and Stanford White’s mistress) is on display in restored, original bookcases, and a red velvet swing is available upon request for use during events and receptions (marking the same swing, which Stanford White used to seduce Evelyn on at the turn of the century).  The library hosts an impressive range of books and reading matter reflecting the big apple itself, the Empire Deco period of design and architecture, the history of the Lambs Club building and its strong A-lister heritage.  An author signed copy of the book, ‘American Eve’ highlighting White’s relationship with Nesbitt leading to his notorious murder at the turn of the century, is placed in each guest room alongside ‘The Great Gatsby’, a longtime favorite of General Manager, Joel Freyberg.

Upon arrival, the guest relations manager specifically stocks each oversized suite with books, novels and biographies tailored to the guests own personal preference for in-room access. For instance, an architect may come to stay for a week and find books on local Tasmanians who shaped and influenced the building design in historic areas, or books about Australian designers.  Or, if a guest enjoys scuba-diving, they may find a book on the marine life indigenous to the eastern coast of Tasmania.  From books on travel, Tasmania’s wildlife, Australian history, flora and fauna, culinary and wine, design and architecture to books on wellness and spa, history, popular fiction and non-fiction,  the main on-site library is stocked with all one could imagine for a relaxing experience while taking advantage of Saffire’s surrounding  serenity.

Keswick Hall, Charlottesville, Virginia:

www.keswick.com

The Virginia Library at the historic Orient-Express property offers a warm welcome with a roaring fireplace. Guests can enjoy this cozy space, or opt for privacy in their room, to delve deep into the state's colorful history with a selection of more than 400 books that are either about Virginia or written by Virginians. Topics vary from memoirs and cookbooks to nature and fiction. Included in this impressive collection are books by best-seller John Grisham and renowned novelist Rita Mae Brown - both of whom now reside near Keswick Hall. Aptly decorated to reflect Virginia's history, the library boasts original antiques, period inspired pieces and rare paintings. While feeding the mind, fresh snacks made with ingredients from the property's very own garden, as well as decanters gleaming with colorful liqueurs, are made available for a completely satisfying experience.

Forty 1 North, Newport, RI:www.41north.com

Each guestroom has its own section of reading materials, color coded to align with the décor of that room. Books’ subject matter is as diverse as fly fishing to cupcake design, and guests are encouraged to take reading matter into the deep bathtub for the ultimate relaxing soak or in front the roaring fireplace found in each of the marina-side boutique hotel’s 28 luxurious guestrooms.  Similarly, guests will find their own hard cover copy of a Dr Seuss book (each room has a different book from ‘Green Eggs & Ham’ to ‘One Fish Two Fish, Red Fish Blue Fish’) waiting for them on arrival.   Oh, the places you’ll go…

The PuLi Hotel and Spa, Shanghai:www.thepuli.com

Located in the heart of Shanghai, The PuLi Hotel and Spa is the first luxury hotel of its kind in Shanghai, blending the immediacy and convenience of its location with the quiet, emotional indulgences of a peaceful and luxurious resort. Simple and authentic touches sit side by side with new benchmarks in innovation, leading edge technology and design that pervade throughout its contemporary urban spaces. Like the rest of the hotel facilities, the Library was handcrafted to allow guests to relive the traditions of Shanghai's famed hospitality through their historic and cultural value. Located on the ground floor, the Library comes complete with an extensive collection of intellectual delights for both guests and locals alike. More than 1,000 books highlight topics including the arts, history, science, photography and more. The Library also boasts an original set of hand written scripts by contemporary Chinese writer Lu Xun - one of three sets that still exist.

Media Contact:

The Brandman Agency

Jennifer Walters

T: 212-683-2442

E:jennifer@brandmanpr.com

Savy Sailing Around The World

Savy Sailing Around The World

August 2011 -- From the remote Ryuku Islands, to the exotic Nile River to the magical blue waters of French Polynesia, this collection of global sailings has something for the Skipper in us all. All aboard for a luxe cruising adventure!

Orion Expedition Cruises:  Explore “the path less traveled”

www.orionexpeditions.com

Orion Expedition Cruises, Australia's only international-standard, five-star expedition cruise line, increased the size of its fleet last month with the addition of the Orion II, a second expedition ship which joins the line’s existing 106-passenger Orion. The 100-passenger, 50-suite luxury Orion II commenced its inaugural journey on June 10, 2011 with a 24-night voyage from Vancouver to Otaru, Japan. Future itineraries for the ship include trips to the Russian Far East, Inland Sea of Japan, the Ryukyu Islands, and then a series of varying 10-night itineraries around Borneo. Later voyages this year will include Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.

On the heels of the new ship addition, Orion Expedition Cruises has released a new brochure outlining the 2012 itineraries for both Orion and Orion II. This informative package includes stunning images of destinations the ships visit, in-depth outlines of all itineraries, cabin descriptions and photos, and background information to allow guests a comprehensive look at life onboard luxury expedition cruising ships.

Porto Cupecoy: Mediterranean Style, Caribbean Spirit

www.portocupecoyvillas.com

Looking for a place to dock the Superyacht?  Porto Cupecoy, developed by Orient-Express Hotels Ltd., on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten is a private condominium community nestled around a seaside piazza, featuring international boutiques and renowned restaurants. Sailing enthusiasts will enjoy a deep water white-glove marina with 54 boat slips, including 11 for mega-yachts. First-class amenities are: premier vessel concierge; high-speed Wi-Fi Internet & satellite TV; fully marked and lit access channel; up to 480 volts, 3 phase 100 amps shore power with double water connections; fueling capabilities offering diesel and gasoline, and a full range of engine lubricants. What’s more, Porto Cupecoy provides sailors access to the property’s swimming pool, outdoor tennis courts, fitness center, shops and restaurants.

MSC Yacht Club:  Luxury Ship Within A Ship

www.mscyachtclub.com

MSC Yacht Club introduces the ‘ship-within-a-ship’ concept aboard the prestigious foredecks of MSC’s two designer flagships, MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida. Itineraries are to some of the most intriguing locales in the Mediterranean, with seven-night rates starting at $3,939 per person, including accommodations, economy flights from select gateways, ground transfers, one-night post hotel accommodations, and up to $250 shipboard credit per person. Yacht Club guests enjoy an array of exclusive privileges: Italian-designed suites; 24-hour butler service; 24-hour Concierge; complimentary fine dining in a private restaurant; priority reservations at the MSC Aurea Spa; a private sundeck with Jacuzzi, swimming pool and a bar; private lounge with afternoon tea service; and more.  Think of the Yacht Club concept as the upgrade cruise equivalent of Business Class complete with the amenities and service to match. 

Paul Gauguin Cruises:  Journeys to the South Pacific

www.pgcruises.com

Paul Gauguin Cruises operates the South Pacific’s highest rated and longest running cruise ship, the m/s Paul Gauguin. The all-inclusive cruise line offers guests the utmost in luxury cruising, with 166 oceanview staterooms and one-of-a-kind experiences on and off the ship. Beginning in 2012, The Gauguin will be expanding its already exciting list of itineraries to include Australia, New Caledonia, Fiji, Tonga, and the Cook & Society Islands. The ship will also be traveling to Rurutu, the “Island of Whales,” at the height of whale-watching season. Paul Gauguin Cruises has added new experiences onboard as well with the introduction of their food and wine themed sailings. The owners of three prestigious wineries will be onboard sharing their unique stories and tastes of their delectable wines. For foodies sailing the South Pacific, Michelin-starred Chef Jean-Pierre Vigato will be joining The Gauguin in June 2012 to prepare gourmet dishes and host demonstrations of his culinary techniques.

The Bitter End Yacht Club: An Island Outpost with Historic Charm

www.beyc.com

Bitter End Yacht Club is accessible only by sea and has been luring ocean and sailing-lovers for more than 30 years. Located on the protected waters of North Sound on the island of Virgin Gorda (British Virgin Islands), the lush, beachfront resort is a sailing and water sports mecca, thanks to its near perfect year-round sailing conditions, sunshine and crystal-blue waters. Guests can learn to sail at Bitter End’s U.S. Sailing-accredited Sailing and Windsurfing School, dive with the world-famous Kilbrides Sunchaser Scuba or take advantage of the resort’s legendary Club fleet, featuring over 100 well-maintained watercrafts, and its more than 15 weekly excursions to many of the BVI’s treasured islands and reefs. The resort includes 85 beachfront, bungalow-style guest rooms, the world’s largest complimentary fleet of watercraft, 70 moorings and 25 slips, an on-site sailing school, two restaurants, a full-service spa, an Emporium, shops, a freshwater pool and three private beaches. Resting on the northeast extremity of Virgin Gorda, Bitter End is just 12 miles from Tortola, 30 miles from St. Thomas and 75 miles from Puerto Rico.

Oberoi Cruisers:  Exotic Sailings along the Nile River

www.oberoihotels.com

Built on the lines of an Edwardian Paddlesteamer, The Oberoi Philae, Nile Cruiser, offers guests a cruise on the Nile along the landmarks of an ancient civilization. The journey begins in Luxor or Aswan and courses through Pharaonic dynasties that span back thousands of years. Elegant interiors with teak paneling, parquet floors, European antiques, Oriental carpets and a private balcony lend an air of a British country house to the interiors.  Impeccable service and a beautiful setting come together to make this a voyage of discovery - there simply is no finer way to travel down this historic waterway than aboard on The Oberoi Philae.

The Oberoi Zahra, Luxury Nile Cruiser continues Oberoi Hotels & Resorts’ tradition of offering the highest standards of hospitality and is amongst the most spacious accommodation on the Nile. It sails on a seven-day itinerary from Luxor to Aswan, allowing guests the opportunity to leisurely discover five thousand years of Egyptian culture. The mutedly elegant interior of the Luxury Cabins and Luxury Suites are complemented by expansive views of the river framed by large windows within the cabins and the en suite bathrooms. The Oberoi Zahra is the only boat on the Nile with a full-service spa. Guests can rejuvenate the senses with wellness options that include massage suites, a swimming pool and gymnasium. Explore the Nile in unparalleled luxury on The Oberoi, Zahra.

U.S. Media Contact:
Iliana Carr
The Brandman Agency

T: 212.683.2442

E: Iliana@brandmanpr.com

Scent Of A Journey

Scent Of A Journey

One's sense of smell is possibly the strongest of the five senses tied to memory. Travel is indeed one of the best ways to create lasting memories and when the two are combined, a magical journey awaits! Inhale deeply and follow your nose from Europe to Africa, then on to North America as the following leaders in luxury travel demonstrate their unique aroma and fragrances, sure to conjure up ideas for the perfect trip.

The creative minds behind the “ship-within-a-ship” concept, with the launch of MSC Yacht Club aboard the prestigious foredecks of MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida, have once again come out smelling like a rose – well, more like a soothing blend of lavender, fig, fresh herbs and citrus flavors, actually. Aptly named after the intriguing Mediterrenean locations MSC Yacht Club cruise ships visits, MED by MSC is a tailor-made frangrance, which gently permeates throughout Yacht Club’s Italian-designed suites, 24-hour Concierge area, excusive  restaurant and private lounge with daily afternoon tea service. MED was developed by Brand Sense, a global leader in sensory marketing, and Firmenich, the largest privately-owned company in perfumery.  www.mscyachtclub.com

Reid’s Palace, an Orient-Express property in Portugal, has welcomed many luminaries throughout its colorful history. One in particular is Elisabeth of Austria – better known as Empress Sissi. A beloved icon in Europe, Empress Sissi spent much of her time wandering the flower island of Madeira, occupying a suite at Reid’s Palace. In honor of her frequent visits, Nicolas de Barry, a “Maître Perfumer,” has recently launched his new perfume. “Sissi” embodies hints of violet, subtle powder and sumptuous vanilla. This unusual and seducing perfume is conveniently available for purchase at the hotel’s chic boutique. www.reidspalace.com.

The Chatwal New York teamed up with renowned French perfumer Krigler to create both the hotel’s signature scent – “The Chatwal No. 44” – and a service for guests that allows them to customize their own fragrance. If guests choose to partake in the latter, a Krigler perfumer will bring a trunk containing 48 Krigler fragrances to the guests’ suite to sample at their leisure. Guests can either concoct their own signature scent from scratch, which takes six months to complete the order, or customize an existing one, which takes about three days. Krigler’s fragrances have been favored by iconic beauties like Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn to beloved dignitaries, including President Kennedy. Both “The Chatwal No.44” scent, which is available in a candle, or the custom-made perfume, will be a special souvenir that will always remind guests of The Chatwal New York. www.thechatwalny.com

La Mamounia, located in the heart of the enchanting city of Marrakech, boasts a bespoke signature scent created exclusively for the property by the world-renowned fragrance expert, Olivia Giacobetti, one of the seven 'noses' of the world. The unique and sumptuous fragrance beautifully combines hints of date, rose and cedar, which are seamlessly infused through the public areas of the Moroccan-chic hotel. Additionally, all Spa and in-room soaps and bath products were created uniquely under Olivia's direction. Infused with notes of cedar and eucalyptus, guests are invited to relive and take home their La Mamounia experience with each light of the signature candle available for purchase exclusively from La Mamounia itself. www.mamounia.com.

Located in its own private oasis close to world famous Waikiki Beach, The Waikiki EDITION is a game-changer for the lifestyle hotel experience with personalized design, true innovation, and comforting service. To complete the originality and vision of “home away from home” for The Waikiki EDITION, Le Labo customized a signature scent around a “black tea” theme, incorporating notes of fig, black tea, cedarwood, patchouli and rose to evoke a feeling of well-being, comfort and exoticism. Available in-room amenities include shampoo, conditioner, body wash, bath soap, moisturizer, and a signature EDITION scented candle is also available for purchase. www.editionhotels.com

Poolside Retreat

  

Poolside Retreats

A Collection of This Season's Most Splash Worthy Pool Scenes

NEW YORK, (July 28, 2011) – With this summer’s heat wave in full force, cool pool parties are top of mind. From sexy swimming adventures to day time dance parties you just can’t miss, these ‘it’ venues are chill alternatives as the temperatures rise.

Dream Downtown & Dream South Beach

www.dreamintl.com

When it comes to the hottest pool party destinations this summer the sky is the limit- and the rooftop pools at New York’s Dream Downtown and Miami’s Dream South Beach will be sizzling all season long.  The Beach at Dream Downtown is a true beach club complete with sun, sand and cabana boys. As the city’s best DJ’s play on, guests can soak up the sun and put their toes in the sand at Dream Downtown’s poolside retreat. Sun bathers can delight in the hotel’s custom plush lounge chairs or take a dip in the translucent-glass bottom pool that sits directly above the hotel lobby. Down the coast in South Beach, is the swank 70’s inspired Highbar with an Infinity edge pool overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.  Set high above Collins Ave, the Studio-54-meets-South-Beach lounge is the hotbed of South Beach’s sun-kissed social scene. 

The PuLi Hotel and Spa

www.thepuli.com

Bask in the sexy serene scene at The PuLi Hotel and Spa’s 82-foot Infinity lap pool. Located in the heart of Shanghai, The PuLi Hotel and Spa blends the immediacy and convenience of being in Shanghai’s most central location with the quiet, emotional indulgences of a peaceful, luxurious resort. The hotel’s enveloping pool provides a bird’s eye view over JingAn Park and the vibrant city of Shanghai. Guests may further indulge and enhance revitalization at the hotel’s award-winning Anantara Spa after a tantalizing dip with signature treatments combining China’s healing past and the best the 21^st century has to offer.

MSC Yacht Club

www.mscyachtclub.com

Experience luxury aboard the MSC Yacht Club’s designer flagships, MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida, charting to the hottest destinations in the Mediterranean. This exclusive ship within a ship experience provides VIP treatment through-out including a private swimming pool and beach area along with afternoon tea served daily by a private butler designated solely for Yacht Club members.  Sip Champagne while lounging privately poolside or experience hand-crafted shore excursions on this elite journey through exotic locales.

Keswick Hall

www.keswick.com

The 600-acre Orient-Express property is indeed music to your ears! The Horizon Pool, an infinity edge lounging pool on the piazza level, offers piped underwater music. After working up an appetite in the refreshing water, guests can dine off a poolside dining menu through Labor Day and also enjoy an energizing cocktail for that next tune.

 The Waikiki EDITION

www.EDITIONHOTELS.com

As if Hawaii wasn’t sexy enough, the adult only Private Sunset Beach and Bar at The Waikiki EDITION takes the ultimate plunge in seduction. Hidden under graceful palms and native foliage, the inland private beach surrounds a lagoon with sleek custom teak lounge chairs set amongst the water.  This summer, enjoy the party rockin’ ambience while sipping Mai-Tai’s and listening to some of world’s most renowned DJs in this exotic locale.

The Liaison Capital Hill

www.affinia.com

As the district’s sidewalks start to sizzle, The Liaison Capitol Hill reinvents itself by transforming into the city’s urban oasis, a “rooftop resort” offering guests a sky-high way to relax and keep cool this summer. This DC hotspot is now open through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 5. Surrounded by plush chaise lounges and cozy daybeds, the pool offers plethora ways to make a splash, from sipping delicious summer cocktails like the Porch Swing, a mix of bourbon, iced tea, fresh peaches and mint to nibbling from a poolside menu of seasonal easy-to-eat small bites like Maryland Grassfed Beef Burger with Talbot cheddar, onion marmalade and hand cut fries. Start each morning, channeling inner zen with complimentary Yoga, a Vinyasa-based class suitable for all experience and fitness levels taught by experienced instructors from Faith Hunter, arguably the city’s best instructor, reservations necessary.

Thompson Beverly Hills

www.thompsonhotels.com

Kick back like a true celebrity this summer at Thompson Beverly Hills’s rooftop pool.  With sweeping views of the Hollywood hills in the distance, guests can focus on achieving the perfect sexy tan while sipping on cocktails and taking in the sights.  Looking for a little privacy?  The poolside cabanas offer a perfect spot to unwind (and escape the paparazzi).  After a dip, sun worshippers can enjoy all ABH (Above Beverly Hills) has to offer.  Known as one of LA’s top rooftop destinations, ABH is a lounge located on the north side of the hotel that features unique cocktails, delectable appetizers, private trellis shade areas and fire pits perfect for enjoying with friends year round.

La Mamounia

www.mamounia.com

Summer like the Stars -- La Mamounia has long been a place to see and be seen, and this summer is no exception. The hotel is host to a 7,500-square-foot outdoor heated, ozone-treated swimming pool, which serves as the perfect place to relax, unwind and mingle with the world’s elite. Kick back in one of the rotating, double sun pods or comfortable loungers and enjoy champagne cocktails served by the hotel’s poolside butlers. La Mamounia has long been a favorite destination for travelers from around the world, hosting legendary figures such as Winston Churchill, Elton John and Jennifer Aniston.  Originally, when the property first opened in 1923, its central pool was the talk of the town as in the center of the pool were living palm trees. After its restoration by Jacques Garcia, those same palm trees were lovingly reinstated inside today's larger and grander pool for guests to enjoy.

U.S. Media Contact

Maggie Salone

The Brandman Agency

T: 212.683.2442

E: maggie@brandmanpr.com