Italian Mountain Retreat

With Nature as a Role Model: During your stay at vigilius mountain resort you can either take advantage of a free move & explore program with activities such as archery, mountain biking etc. or book our Personal Guide for personalized programs. Andreas can lead you through the relaxing world of the Five Tibetans® or bring you closer to the art of bow-shooting. From vigilius, many hiking excursions are available to nearby alpine cabins where you can enjoy a tasty apple strudel and refreshments to strengthen yourself for the return hike back to the Hotel. For daring types, we offer – depending upon the weather conditions - tandem paragliding flights into the valley or a trip to a nearby high ropes course. At the vigilius mountain spa, one’s attention is always directed outwardly towards nature. Space in which to open oneself and to relax: in the swimming pool and move & explore room, in the paradise garden and sauna or in the steam bath.

VIP - Ecuadorian Gourmet Cuisine

The Ecuadorian Gourmet Cuisine tour from Metropolitan Touring begins with an introduction to the best of Colonial Quito: La Compañia, the Jesuit gold church; St. Francisco Monastery; the San Juan Mirador; Benalcázar Square and the Mena Caamaño Museum. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, your guide will accompany you to the Hotel Plaza Grande, Quito’s newest and most exclusive boutique hotel and restaurant, right at the heart of Independence Square for a delicious lunch, featuring gourmet dishes from the traditional Ecuadorian as well as international cuisine.

After lunch, the afternoon is free for relaxing, shopping or various other optional activities. In the evening you will be transferred and escorted to one of Quito’s many spectacular restaurants to enjoy a great gastronomic experience with a tasting menu, prepared by Ecuador’s finest chefs and featuring fresh local ingredients. Some of the restaurants that Metropolitan Touring works with for this tour are the following:

Rumiloma:
A converted ranch, high on the slopes of Pichincha Mountain, Rumiloma features delicious and sophisticated cuisine in a unique rustic setting, with a breathtaking view of the city.

Zazu:
Hip and modern, Zazu is known for the creativity of its chefs Alexander Lau Moscoso and Hugo Tsuda Miyagawa. Zazu was granted the “Five Star Diamond Award” by the American Institute of Hospitality Sciences of New York.

Alkimia:
A sophisticated yet casual Restaurant in the “in” zone of Uptown Quito, Alkimia presents a very Latin and spectacular Mediterranean menu, with creations of its chef Julio Avendaño.

2009 Beijing Wine Classic

2009 Beijing Wine Classic

Aman at Summer Palace, Beijing hosts an unprecedented weekend of food, wine and culture at the inaugural 2009 Beijing Wine Classic. The Classic is an annual event which will focus on different wine regions around the globe.

This year’s showcase features California’s most notable producers in a three-day event marked by extensive panel discussions hosted by winemakers, tasting, dinners and a silent auction.

Participating wineries include Harlan Estate, Bond Estates, Chateau Montelena, Staglin Family Vineyard, Flowers Vineyard and Winery, Honig Vineyard and Winery, Calera Wine Company and Fisher Vineyards to name a few.

Call Your Travel Advisor Today!

Anguilla's Exclusive Villa Retreat Invites Travelers to Vacation Like a VIP

Apr.21.09 Cerulean Villa


ANGUILLA’S EXCLUSIVE CELEBRITY VILLA RETREAT INVITES TRAVELERS TO VACATION LIKE A VIP FOR TWO WEEKS ONLY IN JULY The uber-luxurious Cerulean Villa will host the hippest party in the Caribbean featuring a private beach barbecue for guests, oceanfront accommodations, world-class cuisine, personal staff and a host of activities

BARNES BAY, ANGUILLA–- For the first time Cerulean Villa on the glamorous island of Anguilla will extend to discerning travelers a nightly rate ranging from $600 - $900 per room (seven-night stay required) July 11-18, 2009 and July 25- August 1, 2009. The exclusive offer will be extended to just 14 guests and includes luxury oceanfront guestroom accommodations, use of the freshwater oceanfront pool, Jacuzzi, tennis courts, tropical gardens, meditation and massage garden all set on a magnificent white sand beach. Guests will also be invited to an all-out beach bash under the stars, one of the best parties in the Caribbean.

Known as the hideaway of celebrities and high-profile personalities, Cerulean Villa is one of the most exclusive villa resorts in the Caribbean and is booked up to one year in advance for stays of one week to one month. The average weekly rate is upwards of $50,000 per week during high season and $100,000 Christmas and New Year’s Eve. This special offer does not include the meal plan which is available at a rate of $150 per person, per day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The meal plan includes the beach party. The offer excludes taxes, service charges and gratuities.

Mid-Summer Rates from July 11-18, 2009 and July 25 – August 1, 2009 Range from $600-$900, per room, per night with a seven-night stay and include the following:
• Accommodations for two
• Use of fitness center, tennis courts and pool
• Complimentary manager’s cocktail reception
• Beach party dinner
*meal plan is available at a cost of $150 per person, per day and includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, all beverages (both alcoholic and non) and beach party.

Situated on the spectacular white sand beach at Barnes Bay on the idyllic island of Anguilla, Cerulean is a 13,000 square-foot five star villa designed by award-winning architect Deborah Berke. The lavish two-story white Mediterranean-style structure features domed roofs and dots the lush sun-drenched coast of Anguilla. Upon entering the property, the rich blue hues of the sparkling sea peek through the cut-out of the front entrance. Through the front doors lies a 3,000 square-foot stone pool terrace with a sleek 40 x 25 freshwater pool that reflects the ocean.

Indoor and outdoor living and dining space surrounds the pool terrace, each with views of the sea. The villa features a very airy, open design with clean lines, natural hues and comfortable furnishings. The indoor living room of the home resembles a Moorish palace with a high ceiling, stone floors, intricate Moroccan mosaics, oversized cushions and a soothing fountain. The intimate dining room can accommodate 14 guests.

The seven spacious bedrooms overlook the ocean and measures about 515 square feet, most feature private terraces. Design layout includes high celings, louvered French doors, stone tile floors and furniture created specifically for Cerulean and made by craftsmen in both Mexico and Morocco. Each bedroom features an en-suite oversized bathroom with imported marble, deck tubs and glass enclosed showers. Two of the bathrooms feature private outdoor garden showers. Cerulean Villa is a nature lovers’ haven with tropical gardens throughout the property, a meditation courtyard tiled in cerulean blue surrounded by tropical flowers and lush vegetation. Flowers from the garden are cut daily and placed within the guestrooms. An additional garden is located within the home and includes a soothing waterfall. This garden enclave is used as a venue for tranquil massages or spa treatments.

In addition to luxurious guestrooms, public spaces and gourmet fare guests enjoy personalize service provided by guestroom attendants, executive and sous chef and guest service manager that will assist in planning activities. An array of activities that includes snorkeling, boating and fishing excursions, spa treatments, golf, horse back riding, as well as romantic beach dinners and tours can be arranged.

Voted one of the ten best beach villas in the world by Conde Nast Traveler, Cerulean is one of the Caribbean’s most popular properties. This beautiful private home offers all the amenities of a five-star resort, including a staff of 14 catering to every whim and need. Praised by Vogue, Travel+Leisure and Playboy, this villa brings elegance effortlessly to any holiday or special event. Cerulean Villa is a member of Virtuoso and The Crown Collection; an exclusive selection of 32 luxury hotels, resorts, villas and sea cruises in the U.S., Caribbean and Europe.

Call your Virtuoso Advisor and get booked today

Charleston Dining

Woodlands Inn - The Dining Room at Woodlands is the 2009 Restaurant of the Year - (Charleston) The Post and Courier

While the South Carolina Lowcountry is famous for its food, this historic and romantic region's finest dining experience may be enjoyed at The Dining Room at Woodlands, the state's only Mobil Five Star and AAA Five Diamond restaurant and Charleston's Restaurant of the Year (The Post and Courier). Woodlands offers both causal and fine dining experiences. Visit Pines for a more relaxed meal and The Dining Room to enjoy an evening of fine dining. “We’ve just tasted culinary heaven. It’s the best meal of our year.” – Southern Living, December 2008

Icons of Australia Aircruise Hosted By Bill Peach

Did you know that Australia and New Zealand aircruises are over 30% less in price this year than last due to the strength of the US dollar! Last year a 12-day Great Australian Aircruise was about US$13,000 and this year it is around US$9,000 - a 31% savings! On top of that savings, I also have some special limited time discounts on several different aircruises. And remember these Journeys are fully inclusive of flights by private aircraft, all accommodation, meals, touring and taxes.

With international airfares starting around US$600 roundtrip from the US and great deals in Premium Economy and Business Class, there has never been a better time to recommend an Australian aircruise vacation.

This iconic journey is designed for the more active client with a level of soft adventure touring to enable the traveller to venture from the beaten path. Join Australian TV personality, Bill Peach, on the 12-day Icons of Australia Aircruise departing 27 May 2009.

With stunning aerial views and special access to locales not usually available to travellers, you will visit the magnificent Seven Spirit Bay, Bungle Bungle Range, Arkaroola in the Flinders Ranges, and of course the famous Australian outback, includes:
• Travel throughout by private aircraft
• All meals
• 11 nights at the best available accommodation including 2 nights at the exclusive Peppers Seven Spirit Bay wilderness retreat
• Breathtaking aerial sightseeing over the Bungle Bungle Range, Kimberley coastline, the Red Centre and Lake Eyre
• Visits to the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Broken Hill
• 2 nights at Arkaroola Resort and Wilderness Sanctuary, including four-wheel drive tour to view the rugged ancient landscape, unique opportunity to view the southern skies through high powered telescopes in their private observatory
• Visit to Alice Springs Desert Park to view some of the Northern Territory's unique wildlife and native plants
• Sunset cruise in Katherine Gorge and jetboat cruise on the Ord River
• Broome's fascinating pearling history and endless sands of Cable Beach

Hurry, seats are limited and won’t last. Contact your Virtuoso Travel Advisor today!

Incredible Deal in Whistler

Whistler Blackcomb. This is one mountain resort that has been bold since it's inception. A mountain town that dared to imagine that it would be a venue for the Winter Olympic games even before the first lift was installed. It's newest endeavour is the stuff of legend. Whistler mountain and Blackcomb mountain have stood side by side, staring longingly at each other with a valley in between. The challenge of the vast distance between them was too much to bridge until the dream became just too big to ignore. Until Now..... The two are about to become one unforgettable phenomena. It is unlike anything else in the world. The Peak 2 Peak project now open, forever changing the way people experience Whistler Blackcomb. Connecting these giants, will be a one of a kind mountain to mountain journey that is worthy of the world's list of technological wonders. Spanning 4.4Km a width three and a half times that of the Golden Gate Bridge and at a height that is higher then four and a half times that of the statue of liberty or three times higher then the world largest tallest pyramid. Experience the high drama of this wonderland's unparallel scenery. This year for the holidays, book your clients an experience to cherish for a lifetime as one of the first people in the world to experience Canada's newest attraction.

On that note, Just picture the perfect Holiday Season. The halls are glowingly decked, the smell of gingerbread is in the air, and the snow is falling on the world's most perfect slopes. Whatever memories the Yuletide season evokes, celebrate at The Fairmont Chateau Whistler. Elevate your next holiday....Whistler Blackcomb has been voted the number one ski resort in North America by Conde Nast, Skiing Magazine and Travel & Leisure. A perfect match - The Fairmont Chateau Whistler - Defining Mountain Luxury.

To celebrate its 20th year, The Fairmont Chateau Whistler is offering 20 rooms every day for the remainder of 2009 at just $99 CDN, based on availability. You’re not seeing things, your vision is perfectly fine – 20/20, in fact.

The week-long “20/20 Celebration Sale” kicks off this Wednesday, February 25. A minimum of 20 guestrooms are available per day until December 31, 2009. If you’re looking to whisk that special someone to Whistler, stick around for a stay-cation, get into the swing of things with a golf getaway or experience the ho-ho-holiday season in Whistler – yes, Christmas is included – The Fairmont Chateau Whistler has a room for you!

Awesome Belize Jungle Lodge-Blancaneaux

Blancaneaux Lodge is outside of San Ignacio, Belize in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, a 300-square-mile national wildlife reserve in the Maya Mountains. The Sofia, our private Islander aircraft, can transport you from Belize City in less than an hour. The adventurous may choose to travel by road; the Lodge can be reached from Belize City and Belmopan via the Western Highway. Belize is less than two hours by air from Houston, New Orleans and Miami.

Here amid the pines and tropical foliage Francis Ford Coppola and his wife Eleanor first found this modest forest hunting lodge while hiking in 1981 and for years it was a private hide-away for his family and friends. In 1993 it opened its doors to a discerning public who were looking for comfort and style in a remote and adventurous location. Blancaneaux Lodge is designed to provide rustic comfort in harmony with its surroundings, and it definitely succeeds.

The Lodge's accommodations mirror the rainforest's vibrant hues. Each bungalow features a soaring hand-woven thatched roof, artisan-crafted and antique colonial furnishings and a luxurious Japanese bath with views of the jungle sky.

Food is prepared from fruits and vegetables grown in our own Organic Garden. The Lodge is a guest in this fertile natural forest. To complement this, our chef has established a three-acre, self-sustaining organic garden that produces all of the fruits and vegetables used to make traditional Coppola family recipes. Dine on fresh seafood, smoked meats and authentic Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a wood-burning Italian oven. Local rum punches await at the Jaguar Bar.

The Privassion River courses through the Lodge's grounds. Above the river, a kaleidoscope of forest birdlife plays against the palmettos. All of the electricity used at the Lodge is generated by a hydroelectric plant that harnesses the power of the river. Blancaneaux Lodge is surrounded by many cave complexes that vary from the tiny to the vast. On the vast side is the Rio Frio Cave, an enormous two-ended cave carved out of a mountain by the Rio Frio River. Many other caves surround the Lodge. Some, such as the popular Barton Creek Cave and the newly opened complex at Actun Tunichil Muknal, contain pottery and bones left by the Mayans.

The hidden Big Rock Falls are a short trip away by car, horse or mountainbike. Hike down to the misty base of the falls, and swim in the warm pools. Or take a trip to the Rio On Pools, where small waterfalls spill between pools carved by the river out of the mountain granite. Some of the pools are connected by natural waterslides. The Lodge houses a number of handsome horses in its private stable. Our friendly guides will lead you on horseback to local falls and caves or will take you deep into the jungle where you can spot unusual birds and other wildlife.

Secluded and luxurious the Enchanted Cottage is without doubt Blancaneaux Lodge's ultimate hideaway. Set on a forested bluff overlooking magnificent waterfalls the cottage was designed to be a writing retreat for owner Francis Ford Coppola. The cottage boasts a private pool, expansive hardwood decking, airy screened porch, stunning master bedroom, full kitchen, a luxurious bathroom with underfloor heating, Japanese tub, open fire and steam room.

An attendant is on call 24 hours a day and a gas powered golf cart is provided to get you around the property when desired.

Between the 01 March and the 30 April 2009 the Enchanted Cottage is available for $900 US per night + tax/service, based on availability. This is a saving of $500 US a night. Contact your Virtuoso Travel Advisor Today

Real Mexico

If you have a small group that is going to Mexico offer them a step outside the ordinary. There are so many wonderful locations in Mexico that still offer a sense of what Mexico was meant to be before the mega all-inclusive resort boom took place. Mexico Boutique Hotels offers an extraordinary selection of hotels with character, unique experiences, outstanding design, original cuisine, and personalized service that will provide you an experience you will not soon forget. Selections are offered in many of the common resort areas as well as off the beaten path along the coastline and inland in many of the historical cities. You can select to stay at one location such as Verana in Puerta Vallarta, Casa Sandra in Isla Hobox just outside Cancun, or Casa Yal'ma Ka'an in Acapulco, these are just a few of the many great options. In addition you can select a multi-stop loop experience that provides a taste of a few different areas all with extraordinary culture and flavor. A great example is a Central Pacific circuit tour which would take you through the exclusive Costalegre region including Puerta Vallarta, La Cruz De Loreto, Careyes and Tamarindo. This coastline trip offers wonderful small towns, beaches, and incredible golf all complimented by wonderful small boutique hotels. For an inland experience sample some fantastic history by starting in Mexico City and visiting the small towns of Cholula and Puebla. Two fascinating hotel experiences in this area are La Purificadora in Puebla and La Quinta Luna in Cholula. If you have an interest in getting back to the heart of Mexico and having a travel experience which encompasses the passion of this culture and provides extraordinary service and exclusive experiences, then this is the way to go. ASK YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR ABOUT THESE LOCATIONS TODAY.

Join Me On A Trek- Sept 21-30 2009, Machu Picchu Lodge to Lodge

Dream Outdoors and Mountain Lodges of Peru offer “Adventure at its finest”: the opportunity to experience the essence of adventure within the realm of creature comforts. At Dream Outdoors we believe a life-changing experience has to be an adventure on many levels. This is why our experience goes far beyond comfortable lodges and great treks… it is a unique opportunity to experience ancient history in the Land of the Incas, contemporary manifestations of deep-founded culture, gastronomic surprises, the determination of local people to progress, new friends and like-minded souls.

This 9-day adventure includes a 6 day “Inca Trail” trek on an ancient path called the “Salkantay Route”. The enchanting valley of Soraypampa is the starting point, one that is much less traveled but, by many accounts, more scenic and exclusive than the famous “Inca Trail” itself. Roundtrip from Lima we travel to Cusco, one of the most historic and picturesque villages in the western hemisphere. From there we set out on foot, lodge-lodge along four mountain retreats in the Cordillera Vilcabamba, a spectacular Andean mountain range hidden in cloud forests. Our journey climaxes at the famed Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Includes;
•Fully guided by Dream Outdoors team
•All transportation and hotel services throughout
•Meals and non-alcoholic beverages from lunch on Day 3 to lunch on Day 9.
*Alcoholic beverages are charged extra
•Transportation of personal belongings on the trek by packhorse/mules and/or porters
•Panoramic Train ride and guided Machu Picchu sightseeing trip

EMAIL ME FOR A FULL DETAILED ITINERARY, limited space available.

New Washington Islands Adventure-Who woulda thunk?

NHB Has a great new experience that they just released for 2009;

Discover the San Juan Islands. A close up nature safari through Washington's colorful San Juan Islands!

Trip Overview-Watch for orca whales in their natural environment as we cruise among the islands Hike through old-growth forest and survey the North Cascades from atop Mt. Constitution Kayak the sheltered waters of Orcas Island, paddling among seals, otters and bald eagles

The San Juan Islands lie like a scattering of deep green emeralds against the sapphire waters of an inland sea. In the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, the archipelago is protected from heavy Pacific weather, enjoying 250 sunny days a year. One of the earth’s most aesthetic marine environments, the islands teem with wildlife. Orca whales and Stellar sea lions cavort in the saltwater reaches, myriad sea birds nest on rockbound shores, and black-tailed deer browse pastures of tall grass and wildflowers. Our immersion into island life happens at a peaceful rhythm, as we encounter nature up close on foot and at sea.

ASK YOU TRAVEL AGENT ABOUT IT TODAY!!

Belize Canopy Lodge

There is a new rainforest treetop lodge in Belize that is raising the bar on canopy experiences in the southern part of the country. Located in a very remote part of Belize, this place offers caving, mountain biking, day and nighttime safaris, and guided tours of archaeological sites. They even stayed true to the Eco movement by utilizing Eco-smart vehicles for your transfers to this 12 treehouse retreat. You can even join an archaeological snorkeling trip to ancient Mayan sites. Looking for something new? Ask your travel advisor about Machaca Hill Rainforest Canopy Lodge.

Tribal Experiences

If you're looking to expand your boundaries a bit and get a true experience at the heart of a destination, try spending time with indigenous peoples in some of the most exotic destinations in the world. Conde Nast recently had a list of living among different native cultures which I felt was extraordinary. What I enjoyed was that although there are many different experiences offered all over the world by tour operators, lodges, and conservation groups, this list was comprised of cultures which play the role as stakeholder, deciding when how and why to bring people into their environment. "There approach to integrating travelers into their culture is as diverse as the culture themselves. "

In Nanavut, 30 miles north of the Arctic circle, you can experience the Inuit tribe by staying at the Bathurst Inlet Lodge. Hike with local guides and float in the inlet on a 40 foot Blue Loo pontoon searching for Arctic wildlife. In the Himalayan foothills of Yunnan, the Naxi are known for their hospitality. Staying on a traditional farm, you can trek into the valley and experience these truly traditional people.

The belief that everything in nature has a soul is the foundation for the Achuar, in the rainforest's of Ecuador. The lagoon-side lodge offers canoeing, fishing, and day long walks to search for hundreds of birds. Ecuador also offers experiences with the Cofan and Quichua cultures as well. The options are endless and extraordinary all over the world. India, Laos, South Africa, Panama, Venezuela, and even Sweden offer wonderful Eco-lodges paired with incredible "red carpet" cultural experiences. If you're looking for something adventurous and open minded, I encourage you to expand your boundaries by appreciating some of the most fascinating people on earth.

Experience Morocco- Red Carpet Style

If you're looking for a new adventure idea for exotic overseas travel, try Marrakech for your next experience. I would recommend staying with a true Moroccan experience provider such as Angsana Hotels & Resorts Riad selection. They have taken many traditional small historic buildings, right in the best areas, and transformed them into the perfect oasis soaked in Moroccan culture.

" Be seduced by the intoxicating mix of sights, sounds and scents that is uniquely Marrakech. Shop at the colourful souks in this magical land, explore the powdery dunes of the desert, and experience the luxury of a stay at Angsana Riads Collection Morocco; a blend of contemporary elegance and historical charm that make this an ideal locale to rejuvenate the soul, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime."

There are many great options and one of my favorites is the Riad Aida. This Riad was once home to Chief Architect Muhammad al-Mekki, designer of the famous Bahia Palace of Marrakech for Ahmed Ibn Moussa, known also as Grand Vizier Ba Ahmed – and it shows. It's only 6 rooms and it is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a round of golf during their stay as it's a short distance from the local course.

Also, try this while there- Perched on the roof is Angsana Riad Bab Firdaus Rooftop Restaurant where authentic Moroccan and Thai dishes is served. The restaurant is open to guests staying at the other Riads of the Angsana Riads Collection, Morocco as well - so do make the required reservation prior to dining.

Peru - Machu Picchu The Right Way

South America has become the hot spot for US travelers looking for their next exotic adventure experience. There are so many incredible places and landscapes, all surrounded with some of the most unique cultures in the world. As local tour operators scramble to compete over destinations such as the Atacama Desert, Lake Titicaca, The Amazon River and rainforest, and Machu Picchu, the market becomes flooded with many options. As an adventure enthusiast it's so hard to recognize the quality options from the nightmares in disguise.

One Red Carpet Experience that I would recommend hands down over the competition is the Lodge to Lodge Machu Picchu Experience offered by Mountain Lodges of Peru. Our team at Dream Outdoors has worked closely with MLP and I feel very strongly about the lodges, the guides, and most of all the unmatched experience of the trek itself.



This moderate to strenuous 7 day 6 night trek takes you through multiple eco-systems and landscapes offering an extraordinary view of untouched Peruvian Backcountry. The guides are wonderful as they know everything about your surroundings and the people who inhabit this area. It's all inclusive so you don't have to worry about anything. The trekking pays off as you have earned your right to set foot on Machu Picchu, one of the most fascinating places on Earth.



Along the way your accommodations include 4 of the most spectacular backcountry lodges to be found anywhere. They are small, luxuriously simple, and offer the most breathtaking views and surroundings imaginable.




I am not hesitating when I tell you that the experience, if done correctly, matches any adventure experience found in any destination. This is the way to view Southern Peru and the ruins at Machu Picchu.