Anywhere Everywhere

Luggage I couldn't travel without

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 21:21:08 +0000

When I first began my travels at 18, I did so with two very old, huge suitcases that were literally falling apart and had an old, small leather handle. Being in the petite side, trying to navigate turnstiles at the tube, running to catch trains, and checking in at the airport with such big, unmanageable cases was a nightmare. It took me years of trying different types of luggage from backpacks to weekenders to suitcases to find the perfect set. Now, I literally couldn't imagine leaving home without them. The first peice of luggage I love and recommend to everyone is the Victorinox Mobilizer NXT 4.0 22" Expandable Wheeled Upright Suiter ($399). For the past 3 years, this has been my carry on bag on over 300 trips. It has never let me down and still looks brand new despite all the banging it might incur. Why I love this is because it meets carry on requirements (22" x 14" x 9.5")which means that I can get a couple weeks' worth of things inside and still be allowed to take it on the plane. This is a lfie saver to me. The 80mm inline skate wheels and 3" aircraft-grade aluminum, comfort grip handle (which locks in various heights to accommodate the small to the tall) on this are top notch. I tried several different handles/wheel combinations but this was the most comfortable and sturdy. It handles rough terrain without flinching, never falls over even with other bags stacked (and it does have the Interlok Attach-a-Bag system which easily stores and secures an additional bag on the front). The front pocket is the perfect size for my 15" laptop and protective sleeve. Made with ballistic nylon and self-healing zippers, the construction is top-notch and relatively light. And the fact that it can expand an additional 2.5" (or 30% more space) is brilliant (although when extended, it doesn't fit carry-on requirements). For some, this might seem on the pricier side but once you buy this, you will never have to buy another suitcase because the construction will literally last a lifetime. If it doesn't? Don't worry, there's a lifetime guarantee. I picked up an additional bag because I was taking a two month trip and needed more space but didn't just want to expand the rolling bag and put it under the plane. I always like to have a large carry-on so that I never have to worry of losing things I couldn't do without (clothes, toiletries, camera/computer gear). So I needed a second bag that would be easy for me to carry along side my rolling bag but also stand up to the wear and tare of being put under the plane (or in a crunch, be a great carry on bag, too). Since I already owned a great wheeling bag, I didn't want another as pulling two wheelers can often be tricky. I needed something with straps, something sturdy, something with space yet not as large as my wheeler.

Carmel by the Sea: Quirks

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 21:32:24 +0000

Since living in a vacation home for a couple of months in Carmel by the Sea, California I'm slowly learning more about the quirks of this town. Here are are a few: There are no street addresses. That's right - no street addresses. Instead of being identified by government issued numbers, homes are identified either by their cottage name (which owners can choose) or by description (SW Corner of San Carlos and 5th, green house three down with the big red door). Explaining this to UPS or places that do not accept P.O. Box addresses can be challenging. It does, however, encourage one to know their streets, neighbours, houses and surroundings so they can explain how to get around town. There are no street lights. At all. Which means it's very, very dark, especially in winter. Not a little shady but pitch black. This affords the glory of seeing the stars and when the full moon is out, the town glows. But walking when dark can be daunting - so carry a flashlight. If you're 18 or under, there is a 10PM curfew. When I told a friend he replied in cheek, "It's to keep those pesky kids of people's lawns!" But, there are no lawns here - another law. It's all Xerophytic Landscaping; natural landscaping that doesn't require watering (although cactus and any other plants that could cause physical harm are highly discouraged!). It also helps to keep the town feeling like a forest and full of magic. Except for Ocean Ave and a couple of streets around it which have shops, there are no sidewalks. Again to add to the forest feel (Carmel was the first city in California to employ a full-time Forrester) but also a reason why if you were certain high heels, you'll need a permit! The city requires this because the uneven roads can be dangerous in towering shoes and they don't want the liability. It is very, very quiet. Living four blocks from the beach, I can still hear the waves crashing against the shore. Coming from Los Angeles, it took me awhile to realise it wasn't the highway. The town is only one square mile in size with 1 dog for every 3 humans. But you'll never be bothered by dogs or their business - it's very clean. Most people here believe that those who take their dogs out will be responsible (and they are). So much so that lots of restaurants (including gourmet) not only allow dogs, but have dogs menus. Almost half the population is single but most visitors are couples. It's about a 50/50 split between men and women although the average age is 54. The city began as one of America's first artist colonies (most of whom were women) and the names of famous artists in residence is long. However, most of those who founded the city couldn't afford to live here today - the median home price is $1.8 million. If you include 17 Mile Drive in that, the median home price goes up to$8.4! The Forest Theatre still provides outside live theatre, however, because rent is so high the original movie theatre is no longer in operation. The only place to see movies now is in one of the local banks. There's a Plasma TV with seats. However, they only play Doris Day or Clint Eastwood movies. It doesn't matter what night it is, the town will most likely be quiet and closed after 6PM. I've been asked a lot by tourists "what's going on tonight?" If it's Tuesday it's locals night at the Cypress Hotel. Other than that don't expect much. People come for the scenery not the scene.

Carmel by the Sea, California

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 02:17:25 +0000

Carmel by the Sea, California was one of America's first artist colonies and gathered momentum after the 1906 earthquake had many of San Francisco's artists fleeing to the beauty and inspiration of Carmel. But it wasn't until 1924 when Hugh Comstock built the above 280 square foot cottage for his wife's doll collection did the town take on the fairytale feel that it's known for today. It's interesting to note that Comstock had no previous building/architectural experience and used no regular tools while he hand built the cottage. He simply had vision combined with will and away he went. The results were charming and extraordinary which made the other local artists crave the romance and whimsy he had created. Afterall, artists don't want to live in boxes - especially not in a sea side forest town. So locals began to ask Comstock to build their houses and he obliged; building dozens of charming homes around Carmel which helped create a feeling of magic that people from around the world now come to see. Land was originally sold extremely cheaply and homes were built without great expense. Now these homes are worth millions (the average home sale here being about $4 million U.S.) but they began with simple intentions by people who wanted to live somewhere beautiful, have their home reflect their dreams and create a unique way to live and work. A lot of thought when into the design of not only the homes, but the community that lived here, the streets, the shops and the future of the town. Urban planning 1920's style. Cottage Living Magazine has a wonderful article on the Comstock cottages - the physical issue has a map so you can talking a walking tour which I highly recommend doing. It might just get you rethinking home design - that character, whimsy and beauty isn't just for those with A-List architects or bazillions. People once did it with little and it can be done again (for of course a little more!). It just takes an idea, some creativity, and work. But the results? Pretty spectacular I think.

Successful Road Tripping

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 05:19:20 +0000

Despite the increase of gas prices, road trips continue to be popular. They have a certain kind of romance to them which is perhaps why important details and realistic plans are often overlooked; making the trip go from dreamy to nightmare in only two days on the road. How many people do you know, after having come back from a car trip, have said that next time - they'll fly! However, if you prepare for the trip and do a few modifications while on the road, I promise you a successful trip ahead. And trust me - I've learned from experience what does and does not work after having driven across Europe and America several times. And in preparing for my upcoming three week drive across Canada, I'm going to take my own advice! Car safety is one of the biggest issues and often the most overlooked. If you do not know how to change a tire, hook up jumper cables or fix your over-heated engine with a paper clip and rock a la McGuiver, then do yourself a favour and get AAA or CAA or any equivalent in the country in which you're driving. You want to have their numbers handy in case you have a problem. No one likes to be on the side of the road in extreme heat or rain, wondering what to do. Just make sure your cell phone is charged so you can call or that you have a phone card if you have to use a pay phone. And if your car does break down, make sure you have flares or a flash light (at night) so you can let other drivers know you need help. But to avoid a mid-trip meltdown, get your car serviced ahead. Make sure your tires have traction and air (and keep checking the air on the trip. Heat and elevation changes can change tire pressure). Make sure your breaks work, you have oil, your wiper blades will do the job and your AC (if you're travelling in summer) isn't about to go on the blitz. Think of what you're asking your car to do - take you somewhere safely and comfortably - so make sure you treat it right before you go. Then think of gear for your car. For me a must have is a Contour Lumbar Cushion by Relax The Back for my back. I could not believe how much this helped on a three day drive from Seattle to Los Angeles; keeping fatigue and muscle soreness at bay. . You can find them for as little as $35 but it's a great investment you'll have well beyond your trip. I also carry a travel blanket in the car for napping or keeping myself warm if my travel partner gets a little AC crazy. A set of comfortable nightshades is perfect for afternoon naps as is ear plugs which can help block out road noise or your driving partners ACDC. For those times when you have to do a lot of driving, anything you can do to make napping easier is great. So bring a real pillow if possible or a neck rest if space is an issue. Make sure you also have a bag for garbage, a travel towel for clean ups and an organiser for your maps and receipts. There's nothing worse than driving around aimlessly looking for a place after 7 hours of driving. Keeping things organised as much as possible in the car will save you hassle throughout the day. Food is another major issue and one that isn't really talked about. Road trip are fun? Right? So bring out the Cheesey's, the chocolate bars, the fast food along the highway! Right? Wrong! Bad eating habits will contribute to fatigue, irritability and other issues we just won't mention here. Eating junk and fast food can also cost a lot in money and time - how much time have you wasted in a crappy diner when you could have been picnicking in some beautiful park? I try to limit sugary foods so instead of eating sugar all day long, I choose to enjoy the cake in the afternoon or that world famous ice cream mid-day. This does wonders for energy, for your whole well being and for irritability. There's nothing worse than sitting in a car for 5 hours with a bulbous belly and nothing to relieve it but antacids and scary rest stops. So don't take another trip down that road. You want to enjoy your trip? Then change how you eat on it. I take two coolers; one for the trunk and a smaller collapsible one for the front. To keep the coolers cool on the road I buy a box of 1 gallon Ziploc bags. Each morning I stop as a gas station, buy a bag of ice for $1 and fill up a couple of the Ziploc bags. This keeps the food in the cooler, cool, without having water all over. I just keep re-filling the same Ziplocs for the trip and put other food in the other Ziplocs. Cheap, easy, effective.

Favourite Hotels

Mon, 05 Mar 2007 02:20:52 +0000

With so much talk about travel this week I thought I'd share my favourite places that I've stayed. Some of my favourite chains include the Kimpton Hotels and Four Seasons (both of which are very dog friendly and have great loyalty programs). And I'm also liking Westin's - anything with a Heavenly Bed has my vote!

Denmark in Photos

Tue, 27 Feb 2007 02:14:57 +0000

Living Souviners

Thu, 15 Feb 2007 02:18:57 +0000

I'm a huge believer in not buying trinket souvenirs for a couple of reasons; first, they hardly ever support the local economy and second, you hardly ever use them (when was the last time you used that plastic playing card set turned keychain?). But I do believe in bringing things home from your travels; living souvenirs. As I wrote previously, Danes love their candles; they burn everywhere from public sidewalks to windowsills. To remind me of this and incorporate the calm and beauty they provide, I bought two different candle holders from two of Denmark’s best known designers - Georg Jensen (stainless steal tea light holders) and Royal Copenhagen ( Mega Tea light Porcelain holder). I bought them from the boutiques instead of a department store or design house; there's something special about doing it that way, especially since they wrap it up for you so lovely (a little present to unwrap when home. Love that!). When I burn candles in them, I'll think of my trip. I also purchased some tea bits from Bodum, wonderful Italian stainless teaspoons from a little home store in Copenhagen, a jacket from H&M (ok, not Danish but close!) and sweater dress. In Ribe, I stepped into a little shop that sold nothing but things from Scandinavian artists and I happened to fall in-love with a little glass girl made by Krebs Keramik. The reason? I draw stick figures and this is exactly how I draw myself! My mother ended up purchasing this for me as my birthday gift so now when I look at the lovely glass girl, I'll think several happy thoughts. I also picked up a Danish design book and some magazines. Oh! The magazines! Boligliv and Isabellas. I bought so many copies for myself and friends that some store clerks actually asked if I was crazy (do you know you bought three copies of the same magazine? Would you not prefer to read different magazines?). There are sheets, duvets, pillows and some linens to come so when I fall asleep at night I can dream about when I return (hopefully to live full-time). It might seem expensive to buy these things overseas but there's a value - great living memories instead of useless junk lying about. Then there are just ideas I bring home, like the heart pictured above which is from my grandfather’s family plot near Skidby. They're created to protect the little flowers from the harsh winter winds but created to be beautiful as well as useful. There were other ideas from tulips to candles that I took pictures of to recreate at home. These are truly the living memories.

Ribe, Denmark

Mon, 05 Feb 2007 02:19:37 +0000

Doors, doors and more doors - this is what you will notice in Denmark's oldest city. It's a great town to visit and I would recommend two days if possible; I had just an overnight and a morning which I think was too rushed.

Hotel Casa del Mar, Santa Monica California

Sat, 22 Jul 2006 05:50:00 +0000

When I arrived at the hotel and was dealing with valet, a man bumped into me as he hurried by but stopped to pardon himself. It was Tom Hanks. I realized at that moment that this hotel was going to be something special. Sitting right on the beach in Santa Monica, Hotel Casa Del Mar screams Old Hollywood but in that chic, polished, attention-to-detail way (we don't stay in old musty places, dear, trust us). With dark woods and rich colours, the entrance alone is nothing short of spectacular. Then, there are the rooms. Light, sunny, and oh so breezy; windows with sheers that sway from the ocean wind, glass walls enclose the deep jet tubs so you can view the ocean while you relax and light yellow fabulously deluxe linens make everything feel fresh and cosy. The stereo system and DVD player are nice touches - especially if you have an ipod to plug in and like to boogey a little before drinks in the lounge or if you need to just strike a pose on the chaise a la Marlene Dietrich. There's no way you could not feel just a little glamorous and Hollywood when laying out on the pool terrace which overlooks the ocean. Even if you're not swimming you can sunbathe and have poolside drinks (after all, you'll need something refreshing when you're out in the sun). We love the poolside massages and the fact you can get a beautifying facial in the morning so that you're pretty enough to listen to classic jazz in the lounge come evening. And trust us, you'll want to look your best when drinking wine downstairs, after all, you never know who youâ€™ll run into. It's not just old Hollywood that comes here anymore. TIP: Splurge on the Ocean View room; there's nothing like it. If staying here isn't an option at least come for drinks and appy's in the lounge - especially on Wednesday when amazing jazz is playing and the lounge is packed with people and conversation.

Hotel Casa Del Mar Web site
1910 Ocean Way Santa Monica, CA 90405
Phone: 800-898-6999 or 310-581-5533

Farmer's Daughter Hotel, Los Angeles California

Sat, 22 Jul 2006 05:48:01 +0000

LA is a city known for style, color and quirkiness so why would someone visit and stay at a dull old Best Western with 30 year old bed covers? Especially when staying in style was never so affordable - or so good. The Farmers Daughter Hotel has been in the center of Los Angeles for over 30 years - with neighbours such as The Grove, CBS, farmers market, Melrose Ave, Beverly Hills and Hollywood). With LA's traffic, being near everything is good but usually pricey - especially when you start talking duvets, Internet, mini-refrigerators, custom mattresses and beautiful though eclectic decor. But this family-run hotel keeps prices more than reasonable (starting at just $129), so you can afford to spend money in the city (which you will, trust us). Though country charm can be a scary phrase, The Farmers Daughter combines this with hip decor that makes it modern in that cool retro way, helping you to feel more LA than Kansas. Large rooms will keep you happy but if you need more space the beautiful outdoor patio is the place to sip cocktails or even take a dip in the pool. After walking around their busy neighbourhood in the heat, you'll be glad for that and their air conditioning.

The Farmers Daughter Hotel
115 South Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles California
800.334.1658

Hotel Triton, San Francisco California

Sat, 22 Jul 2006 04:03:44 +0000

Deciding to escape the drab Seattle winter with a quick trip to San Francisco was easy. Finding a hotel proved a little more difficult. Our criteria for the hotel were specific - low cost, great location, comfortable yet stylish with a cosy lounge area for meeting friends. And did I mention cost? With hotels averaging $250 a night, I wasn't sure I'd be able to get everything I wanted for an affordable price. Then I found Hotel Triton. Their colourful, yet easy to navigate website caught my attention as did their sass, which let me know this wouldn't be the usual stuffy business hotel but instead a unique experience. With a couple of clicks, I reserved a room from the hotel's online 'Specials and Packages' page for $115 U.S. per night. Within seconds, I received a confirmation email with all the reservation details, and three weeks later, we were checking in.

The Westin Grand Hotel, Vancouver Canada

Sat, 22 Jul 2006 03:42:15 +0000

The thing about city life is that you're always in the center of it all. The bad thing is that you're always in the center of it all. Where can a girl stay to get well rested and keep busy? In Vancouver, the choice is easy - a stay at the Westin Grand Vancouver Hotel. Any room in this all-suite hotel will make you feel like you're a hip local living with the best location but if you choose one of their GrandView Suites (located on the top two floors) you'll also feel like the poshest local. That might be reason enough to spend a little on upgrading but the extra's included with higher living should be tempt even the most upgrade-resistant person. With complimentary wireless (excellent for a girl who needs to surf the best places to go during her complimentary breakfast), free local calls, the best city and mountain views, spacious living areas (with sofa-bed for extra gal pals to crash on), and private access floors (perfect for a girl who's concerned about safety), these suites feel like Park Avenue flats but with the warmth of Vancouver Hospitality. Staying on the top floor (31st) will leave you feeling like you're on top of the world and the elegant, cosy rooms will make you want to stay there. With their warm, yellow gold curtains that cover the floor to ceiling windows, mustard coloured walls, soft wood furnishings, the rooms make you want to do more then visit Vancouver - they make you want to live here. Let's not forget to mention the great stereo system that will have you shakin' your thing as you get ready to hit that club two blocks away or, if playing some classical, will help you unwind as you make tea in the mini-kitchen and feel oh so divine. The layout is simply perfect with well-appointed furniture that doesn't overcrowd. From a great little entrance way to the fully stocked mini-kitchen, living room perfect for entertaining or catching up on some TV, work area with a view of the city, balcony over looking the mountains, huge granite soaker bathtub with separate shower (and marble tops) too, and, oh yes, the famous Westin Heavenly Bed. And trust us girls, it is heaven. Whether you need to lounge away the day in your robe or you need to crash after hitting the scene, you'll never want to leave the layers of fluff. And if you think summer is the only good time to visit Vancouver, you might want to rethink that with this hotel. I stayed in February during a particularly rainy, windy time and loved it. Why? With the rain hitting the windows all day long there was nothing left for me to do but sip coffee and eat cake whilst relaxing on the sofa, watching the latest movies after having the biggest bubble bath ever. Talk about relaxation! How many city trips can you say that about? Exactly, which is why I ended up extending my trip by two days - just so I could stay here, feel at home and rest. Which is why I plan to return to Vancouver and the Westin Grand often. TIP: This hotel more than any other really gives you the sense of what it would be like to live in Vancouver. If you have a long stay, crave space or are travelling with a family, this hotel is a great choice and an upgrade to the Grandview Suite is really worth it.

Westin Grand Vancouver
433 Robson St., Vancouver, BC V6B 6L9 Canada
Tel: (604) 602-1999
Fax: (604) 647-2502

The Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli, Italy

Mon, 10 Apr 2006 05:20:12 +0000

The Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli will open for the season on April 13th. This 21-room fairytale Villa on the shores on the shores of Lake Garda offers a luxurious lakeside living experience replicating a stay at a private home. From croquet matches on the Villa's ground to boating excursions on Italy's largest lake to such small touches as complimentary laundry and mini bar, the Villa offers a rare Italian house party experience. For those who want to enjoy the area, a number of options exist. One lakeside experience takes place on Villa Feltinelli's own boat, "La Contessa," reminiscent of a classic 1920s Riva boat. This 52-foot pleasure craft was commissioned in a local boat yard by the villa and is the largest privately owned boat on the lake. The hotel offers excursions on La Contessa through Lake Garda in the Gardone region. While cruising on Italy's largest lake, guests can glimpse historic villas only seen from the water, ancient limonaia structures and beautiful rural scenery. La Contessa can frequently be seen shuttling guests to and from favorite lakeside restaurants. From September 9-11, guests can watch the "Centomiglia" the largest sailing race in Europe, from the shores of Lake Garda. For the adventurous visitors, a scenic 3-mile hike leads from the edge of Lake Garda to the charming village of San Michele. Curious travellers will also love visiting Villa Vittoriale, once the private estate of Italian poet and military adventurer Gabriele D'Annunzio, now notable for its eccentric Italian Art Deco interior. Few people can visit Italy without taking advantage of the country's culture, namely a requisite visit to the opera or a tour of the region's architectural treasures. About 45 minutes east of the villa by car, the city of Verona gives guests the opportunity to see the popular opera (from June 24, 2006 to August 27, 2006) and visit architectural landmarks like an ancient Roman theater and a restored Renaissance palazzo. A fascinating study in history, the city of Verona dates back to the time of the ancient Romans and is the setting for Shakespeare's immortal romance, "Romeo and Juliet." where one can still observe the balcony where the courtship took place. To take sightseeing a step further, guests may employ the services of the villa's personal guide, Chiara Garioni. A native of Gargnano, Garioni is extremely knowledgeable of the region's history including the city of Salo, an area that once served as Mussolini's puppet republic. She is available to guide guests to pre-historic sites, secret gardens, antique markets, cultural sites, historic city centers, and vineyards, among many other attractions. Located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy miles away from the bustle of city life, Villa Feltrinelli remains comfortably secluded in what the writer D.H. Lawrence deemed "one of the most beautiful places on earth." An 1892 neo-gothic mansion set on eight acres of lakefront property, the hotel opened in 2001 and is a product of Bob Burns, founder of Regent International Hotels and a dedicated devotee of elegant hotels. Room rates range from 700 to 2800 Euros (April and October) and from 980 to 3100 Euros (May through September). Villa Feltrinelli Website

Get a room? Get the hotel!

Sat, 08 Apr 2006 05:20:57 +0000

Tax Day will soon be behind us - whew! - and it won't be long before hard-working wage earners across the country begin receiving their much-anticipated tax refunds. According to the Travel Industry Association of America, nearly one-in-five (19%) of U.S. adults who are getting a federal, state or local refund this year plan to use "some" or "all" of it on pleasure or vacation travel. If a trip to the mailbox means a bundle from the government, we'd like to suggest a thoroughly indulgent, personalized travel experience to put your refund toward: a Buyout Package from some of the world's most luxurious hotels and resorts. Whether for an exclusive wedding, a family reunion, or a couple of days of superbly serviced privacy for the two or more of you, a hotel or resort buyout is the ultimate in exclusivity. Imagine an entire property to yourself - or yourselves, should you prefer to share your time with loved ones, guests, or your accountant. The entire staff, from kitchen to concierge to housekeeping, at your beck and call; the prettiest views from whichever guest room or suite you choose; no lines at the lap pool, appointments needed at the spa, or reservations necessary for the restaurants. Now that's a dream vacation. So, once you've made peace with the tax man, put your refund toward a getaway you'll never forget: a Buyout Package at these luxury hotels and resorts: · Maison 140 (Los Angeles): Want a place to yourself in L.A.'s most sought-after locale? Maison 140 has your number. Designed by Kelly Wearstler of kwid, the stylish, Left Bank-inspired, 43-room Kor Hotel Group property in the heart of Beverly Hills is your for the "buyout" with the Private Hotel Package, including use of the entire hotel; customized and catered wine-and-cheese reception at Bar Noir; continental breakfast; and free parking. Priority spa services and dinner reservations at blue on blue, the hotel's sister property Avalon Hotel, available for additional fee and subject to availability. $10,000 per night (exclusive of taxes; no minimum stay required; subject to availability; no pets, please). For info and reservations: (866) 891-0945; www.maison140beverlyhills.com. · The Chanler (Newport, Rhode Island): Now you can have an historic Newport Gilded Age mansion all to yourself with a private residence stay at The Chanler. Situated atop a bluff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean along the famous Cliff Walk, the mansion/hotel is a hot spot for impressive gatherings - many a "socialite" has bought out The Chanler for exclusive weddings. The hotel offers 20 lavish guest rooms, each modeled after a different era of European sophistication or New England charm and appointed with authentic furnishings, artwork and decors. The award-winning Spiced Pear restaurant is renowned as the city's finest. Reserve a private residence package including full breakfast; lunch or Beach Butler Service; afternoon tea and Ice Cream Social; dinner at Spiced Pear or room service; unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, porterage fee and housekeeping gratuities; and local airport or train station transfers. Starting at $28,000 per night, exclusive of tax and service charges. For more info or reservations: (401) 847-1300; www.thechanler.com. · The Tides (South Beach, Miami): Put your tax refund into the most stylish wedding ever with the Brides at Tides Buyout at The Tides in Miami. Set on Ocean Drive, The Tides is a masterpiece of Art Deco design in the heart of ever-hot South Beach. Deluxe oceanfront rooms, Junior Suites and four Penthouse suites bathe wedding goers in stylish luxury, and the acclaimed 1220 at the Tides restaurant enchants with Art Deco grandeur. The hotel's Pool Deck and Terra Nova rooftop penthouse and patio are the perfect spots for the most fabulous day of your life, featuring 360-degree Atlantic Ocean and city views. Snag it all with the Brides at Tides Buyout for two all-inclusive nights, including accommodations, food, beverage, tax and service charge at $100,000 for 100 guests. (Minimum stay: two nights; price subject to change with additional guests.) For more info and reservations: (800) 439-4095; www.tidessouthbeach.com. Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort (Antigua, West Indies): "Destination Weddings" are all the rage, and there's no destination more inviting than a private island paradise. No mere palm-shade Caribbean paradise, Jumby Bay is a romantic backdrop of sun-soaked beaches, turquoise waters, lush tropical surroundings and refined luxury accommodations. The resort's Betrothal Buyout Package starts at $50,000 per night (off season) for all 40 guest rooms and suites, which feature four-poster beds, verandahs overlooking private gardens, and exquisitely private outdoor garden bathrooms in most rooms. Picturesque settings abound for the ceremony, and the happy couple can choose everything from a beachside barbeque reception to an elegant dinner at The Estate House. For info and reservations, 888-ROSEWOOD, (268) 462-6000, www.jumbybay.com.

Skoah Spa

Sat, 04 Mar 2006 03:13:25 +0000

The challenge? De-stress a bride and her best friend before the Big Day. The challenger? Skoah Spa Vancouver. The results? Aaaaaaah. In November 2001 hands-on managers Chris Scott and Jamie McKeough opened Skoah with the slogan, "No whale music, No bubbling cherubs, No pretentious attitudes. Just sweet skin facials and melted muscles massage." Obviously, they took a different approach to the spa atmosphere. It's just what two friends with big stress and little time needed - no worrying, no thinking and no hassle. Despite its location in trendy Yaletown, Skoah managed to escape the pretentious attitude found in neighbouring spas that kept us at bay. At Skoah you get in and out service, pampering without the poodle talk and no strange looks if you ask, "Do I disrobe fully?" In the minimalist lounge - think Ikea meets Soho - we filled out paperwork, drank bottled water and relaxed in over-sized chairs. Two massage therapists who looked more like 1950s flight attendants greeted us and lead us into a double massage room.