Category:

Luxury Travel

Croatia by Sea

by JuJuB

Thinking about taking your next trip somewhere in Europe? How does cruising the coastline of Croatia sound? Croatia is located in Southeastern Europe, and includes more than 1100 miles of coastline right along the Adriatic Sea. There are more than 1200 islands along this coast, ranging in size from small rocky islands to larger yet still private islands. Directly across the Adriatic Sea is Italy.

About Croatia

Why is Croatia becoming a top vacation destination amongst today’s travelers? Croatia is a unique European destination that simply offers some of the most interesting and beautiful scenery. The Mediterranean country is one that emits an old-world feel, as there are many Unesco World Heritage Sites that exist here, and accordingly one of the top reasons why many travelers choose to visit the ancient country. The Roman architecture is very well preserved, which is very exciting to those who enjoy exploring old architectural buildings.

Why Visit Croatia’s Coastline?

The fact that Croatia has one of the most gorgeous coastlines in all of the world makes booking a cruise to enjoy its coastline a must! The ability to explore the beauty of Croatia via its coastline is something every traveler will enjoy, no matter what their age. And because the area tends to experience a mild climate all year long, travelers can book a cruise with one of the cruise lines that travel up and down the gorgeous coastline of Croatia any time of the year.

There are both small cruise lines and large cruise lines available to view the beautiful country of Croatia by sea. Discovery cruises offer travelers the ability to learn about Croatia’s fascinating history, including the reasons behind all of the many castles and cathedrals that exist in Croatia. Luxury cruises that explore Croatia’s coastline tend to lean towards relaxed luxury travel vs. high end luxury travel.

Sailing cruises are for travelers who are looking for excitement, romance, or a little of both! The world’s largest full-rigged sailing ship is available for travelers who want to experience a different type of cruising. Large cruise ships, local cruises, and day cruises are also available, making it worthwhile for any traveler wanting to explore Croatia’s beautiful coastline to look into all of their available options.

Katerina Lines offers coastline itineraries of Croatia, and offers travelers a large number of Croatian coastline itineraries. There are many different types of itineraries to choose from, which means there’s a perfect itinerary for everyone. Examples include itineraries based on relaxation, bicycling, hiking, young fun, and simply enjoying the beautiful coastline.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

The Ritz Carlton in Aruba

by JuJuB

Every traveler needs to include Aruba on their travel bucket list! I recently visited this small Southern Caribbean island, which is not included in the hurricane belt. This means travelers can expect to experience fantastic weather throughout the entire year. I stayed at the Ritz Carlton, and had such a great time that I wanted to share my experience with you all!

Aruba

Aruba is also known as Caribbean Paradise, and no wonder as it is one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. The people are friendly, the beaches are absolutely stunning, there are really interesting caves to explore, and a really great natural pool to lounge in. The beaches are what lures travelers in, as Aruba is well-known for its gorgeous white sand beaches, the oceans turquoise color, and its comfortably warm sea waters.

The Ritz Carlton

My stay at the Ritz Carlton was fantastic! This luxury Caribbean hotel is especially a great choice for incentive travel, destination weddings, and honeymoons. It’s located on one of the nicest of all the beaches in Aruba, which means some of the best views of the Caribbean Ocean. This five star luxury hotel offers all of the amenities one would expect – a variety of exceptional dining venues, luxury spa treatments, a 24 hour casino, live entertainment, beachfront venues, custom catering, a club lounge, and of course luxury rooms and suites.

 

  • All of the rooms offer ocean views via a balcony or terrace, with most offering ocean front views. The décor is inspired by all things Caribbean, making the overall design one that’s vibrant and welcoming.
  • The variety of dining venues means there’s always a new cuisine to try out. There’s a steakhouse, an Italian restaurant, a breakfast buffet restaurant, a casual outdoor restaurant by the pool, a sushi bar, a lounge bar, and a café that makes some of the best coffee and a variety of handmade baked goodies.
  • The luxury spa is to die for! We indulged ourselves in many of the spa offerings, and we were completely satisfied with the services.
  • The 15,000 square foot casino has all of the traditional games one would expect to find in a casino. Live entertainment can be enjoyed in the lounge area right next to the casino.
  • There are cabanas available by the pool and the beach, allowing for a perfect day of luxury lounging! The servers use Segway’s as to not waste any time bringing our drinks.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

The Top Three Spa Resorts in the World

by JuJuB

Thinking about taking your next retreat in one of the top rated spas in all the world? Good for you! When you choose to take your next vacation centered around a spa resort, you can expect to experience a great deal of luxury.

Top Three Spa Resorts in the World

The below list includes the top three spa resorts in the world as of today.

 

1. BodyHoliday, Castries, St. Lucia. This top spa resort is one that places a large focus on overall wellness. Every suite is designed to offer guests a private sanctuary experience, with the ocean views suites offering panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. These luxury suites also offer guests tropical garden views, giving them choices. The resorts food philosophy is centered around healthy eating, and includes organic fruits and vegetables grown in their own garden.

The Wellness Centre is considered to be a true sanctuary, as it offers a variety of soothing treatments that were specifically created to help guests return to a place a wellness. A focus on helping guests reach their optimal health is a priority, and includes using relaxation therapies as well as a variety of pampering spa treatments.

2. Chablé Resort & Spa, Chocholá, Mexico. This top luxury spa resort offers guests deluxe villas, of which all include their own private pool. The overall atmosphere is one that immerses guests into the rich culture and history of this part of Mexico, allowing them a true blend of exotic nature and comfortable luxury. The culinary offerings are like no other, as one of the best chefs in the world designed the menu. With a total of only 36 suites, guests will enjoy this luxury experience while enjoying their privacy.

The Chablé Spa focuses on combining ancient healing techniques with modern science. The spa gets its natural energy from a power source created by the Mayans, allowing for the ancient healing the spa is well-known for.

3. Andronis Concept Wellness Resort, Santorini, Greece. This top spa resort is located on one of the more romantic coastlines in the world. Guests can expect to receive the personalized service they deserve, all while relaxing in one of the luxurious suites. Many of these suites include an infinity pool, which are built in a way that allows guests to enjoy the setting sun over the Aegean Sea. While this top luxury spa resort offers guests all the amenities they can imagine, the overall atmosphere is one that is sophisticated, warm and welcoming.

The Kallos Spa is located within the resort and offers guests beauty treatments, health enhancing treatments, therapeutic relaxation treatments, yoga sessions, detoxing meals and a variety of holistic therapy techniques that support one’s overall well-being.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Argentario: Italy’s Hidden Gem

by JuJuB

Considering taking your next vacation in Italy? Italy has a lot to offer travelers! The friendly people, the gorgeous countryside, the fantastic array of delicious food options, the cobbled walkways, the history, the architecture, the plazas, the museum’s and the church’s are just some of the allure that makes Italy a top vacation spot.

Argentario Italy’s Hidden Gem

Monte Argentario is located in Tuscany and is one of Italy’s most exciting hidden gems! While it used to be an island, it’s now connected to the mainland via sand bars. Visitors will not only enjoy exploring the seaside as well as mountainside opportunities, they will also enjoy the inclusiveness and privacy this hidden getaway in Italy offers. Nearby islands include Giannutri and Giglio, allowing for a fun and exciting day of island hopping.

Additional things to do and explore here include visiting the lagoons, golfing by the sea, taking a walk through the village, shopping in high-end boutiques, enjoying cheese and wine tasting opportunities at local farms, signing up for relaxing massages, going on a boat tour, visiting the 17th century Spanish Fortress, renting a canoe to explore the coastline, going swimming or diving in the crystal clear blue waters, going mountain bike riding, visiting the nature reserve, and participating in one of the many local events that take place here, i.e. parades, firework shows, treasure hunts.

Popular destinations include Porto Ercole, Porto Santo Stefano and Cala Piccola. Popular attractions include Cala Mar Morto, Riva del Marchese and Cala del Gesso. Popular restaurants include the Sandwich Club, La Vivienda and Gourmet Con Gusto. July and August are busy months, as there are lots of festivities and events taking place during this time. Fall and spring are the best times for vacationers who are looking for a little more privacy to visit this hidden gem.

Is Monte Argentario the Next Positano?

Monte Argentario can be compared to the vertical town of Positano. This well-known and popular city in Italy was formed in the 19th century and became even more famous in the 18th century when it developed into a major port and trading hub. The beach in Positano is absolutely spectacular and one of the largest located on the Amalfi Coast. Once road construction made it easier to access the Amalfi Coast, these beaches have become a popular vacation spot amongst all types of vacationers, including famous artists, actors and celebrities.

The many similarities between Positano and Monte Argentario has many people wondering if Monte Argentario is the next Positano. What do you think?

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

 

Villa Esperanza in Costa Rica

by JuJuB

Getting ready to plan your next vacation in beautiful Central America? Costa Rica offers some of the most beautiful scenery to behold in the Americas, as well as some of the most luxurious accommodations. While many vacationers do opt to stay in a luxury hotel when visiting Costa Rica, there are just as many vacationers who prefer their accommodations to take place in a private luxury home.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a popular vacation destination, and for all types of travelers. It offers the ability for visitors to explore two different oceans, hike through massive green and very lush jungles, enjoy seeing a variety of wildlife that exists here and even climb an active volcano. Costa Rica is simply a destination for anyone who appreciates taking part in and exploring the many types of outside adventure opportunities available here, whether it be a solo traveler, a newlywed couple, a family or an entire group.

Villa Esperanza

Villa Esperanza is a private luxury rental home that offers some of the most beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. This Spanish colonial style villa has a total of four bedrooms and five bathrooms, which provides accommodations for up to ten people. The three different levels means there’s easily more than enough space for everyone to relax and enjoy their Costa Rican experience. While there is more than 5500 square feet of living space available, the design of the house allows the space to feel cozy and comfortable, especially the kitchen and nearby lounging area.

This beachfront home not only overlooks the ocean, it also includes a pool and pool area for lounging. There’s plenty of backyard privacy as palm trees surround the villa, which makes it’s easy to spend the entire day out by the pool swimming in the cool blue waters while soaking up the sun. There are two dining areas outside, and shaded terraces that allow for fantastic views of the ocean all day long.

For those who are considering visiting Costa Rica, if you’re looking for private luxury accommodations that are somewhat off the beaten path, Villa Esperanza is the place for you. It simply offers the perfect combination between modern conveniences and old world charm, which is responsible for its great allure.

With advance notice, travelers can have access to a private chef, daily maid service, a personal driver, and the ability to book tours for all to enjoy the beauty of the island.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

A Day at Torciano Winery

by JuJuB

Traveling to Italy? Taking time to visit the Torciano Winery is a must for those who appreciate luxury wines. This Italian winery offers visitors a welcoming place where they can enjoy all things wine, while relaxing and enjoying the extraordinary views.

Torciano Winery

The Torciano Winery was founded in 1720 and is now in its 13th generation of wine producing. The warm hospitality found here is like no other, as the focus of the winery is on celebrating both their style and heritage. Pierluigi Giachi, owner of Tenuta Torciano Winery, places a lot of attention on creating an Italian experience for those who visit his winery that is simply like no other. One of his many goals is to help travelers understand how to pair the right food with the right wine, which simply makes every dining experience all that much more enjoyable.

Wine lovers will enjoy the variety of both red Italian wines and white Italian wines available here, as well as additional wine options, like sparkling wines and dessert wines. Visitors will also get to learn proper glass etiquette, a skill that will take them far in their wine tasting adventures. Because the Torciano Winery has such an impressive history and is able to offer visitors so many options, this is a winery that needs to be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

The following are just some of the options available when visiting Torciano Winery. Making reservations is recommended due to their popularity.

 

  • Lunch in the actual winery, includes tasting
  • Dinner in the actual winery, includes tasting
  • Truffle hunting, includes lunch and tasting
  • Tour the vineyard, includes tasting in winery
  • Cooking classes, includes tasting in winery

 

For those who love wine and are looking for one of the most romantic and scenic venues located in Italy to get married, know that the team at Torciano Winery will take care of all the details. Newlyweds can also expect romance with every dining experience, as a romantic dinner in the winery includes wine tasting and much more.

For those who enjoy a luxury wine vacation, the option to take a full tour of the winery via a private helicopter is available. This truly incredible journey allows visitors to explore the Tuscany area from above, making for incredible lifetime memories.

For those who are interested in getting a group of friends together to take a vacation based on all things wine, there is simply no other winery that can offer them the warm hospitality offered here, which all stems from the Giachi family’s passion for their Italian heritage.

For visiting families, know that there are fun activities that make visiting the winery exciting for the whole family, including mini bowling and archery.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Casa Madrona in San Francisco: A Hidden Gem

by JuJuB

Enjoying panoramic harbor views is just one of the many highlights of the San Francisco area, and that’s exactly what every traveler can expect when staying at the Casa Madrona. This luxury hotel is a true hidden gem as it overlooks the San Francisco Bay, which is listed as a landmark hotel on the National Register of Historic Places.

Casa Madrona in San Francisco

The Casa Madrona is a simple yet extravagant hotel that offers guests luxury rooms. The wide variety of rooms available all offer their own special and unique accommodations.

  • Hillside Guest House – guests can take pleasure in viewing the San Francisco skyline from this apartment-style room
  • Hillside Cottage Suite – gorgeous views can be enjoyed from this large cottage-style suite
  • Hillside Cottage w/Balcony – guests can enjoy the views while sitting on the balcony
  • Hillside Cottage – guests can appreciate spectacular views from this sophisticated cottage-style room
  • Hillside Cottage w/Partial View – a spacious, contemporary, quiet room that offers still spectacular partial views of the bay
  • Mansion Suite – a luxury room with fireplace that includes a balcony overlooking Richardson Bay and the San Francisco skyline
  • Mansion Deluxe – a small, classic Victorian-style that offers great views of the Sausalito Bay and Richardson Bay
  • Mansion Junior Suite – beautiful views of the bay can be seen from this Victorian-style suite
  • Alexandrite Suite – extraordinary panoramic views of the bay, with private outdoor decks, a chef’s kitchen and a media wall
  • Harbor Side Courtyard – this apartment-style room offers magnificent panoramic views of the day
  • Deluxe Harbor Side View – some of the absolute best views of the bay can be seen from this contemporary, luxury room
  • Wellness Rooms – offers guests a wellness experience that will nurture the mind and body
  • ADA Accessible Room – ADA rooms are available

Dining at the Poggio Trattoria is a must for guests who enjoy authentic Italian cuisine. Making reservations is recommended. The restaurant specializes in Italian comfort food, all with roots from the Northern Italy area. Fresh ingredients are a focus, and the garden growing right behind the restaurant makes for the freshest meals. Private dining rooms can accommodate up to 150 people, and the option to create a personalized menu is available. Some of their specialties are listed below.

  • Breakfast – Liege Waffles, Frittatas, Fresh Berries, Cappuccinos
  • Lunch – Wood Fired Pizza, Grilled Whole Mediterranean Seabass, House-made Sausage
  • Dinner – Local Dungeness Crab, Short Rib Filled Pasta, Braised Pork Ragu

Nearby Attractions

Popular nearby attractions include:

  • Napa Valley
  • Sonoma Valley
  • Muir Woods
  • Local Boutique Shops
  • The Golden Gate Bridge
  • Fisherman’s Wharf
  • Haight Ashbury

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Prana by Atzaro Luxury Yacht

by JuJuB

Prana by Atzaro is a brand well-known for providing travelers with the luxurious hospitality they’re looking for when traveling the world. Their overall authentic style is easily one that all travelers will appreciate, as they offer a variety of luxury-based ventures that make for quite the unique experiences. Some of the more popular ventures they offer include wellness retreats, treks to volcanic islands, sailing through Indonesian islands, and luxury yacht sailing. Ready to sail in luxurious style?

Prana by Atzaro Luxury Yacht

Luxury yacht sailing aka luxury Phinisi sailing is a deluxe way to sail the paradise seas of Indonesia. Their handcrafted traditional Indonesian Phinisi is built entirely of iron wood and teak and has two mighty masts for sailing through the open seas. This extravagant yacht sailing opportunity is perfect for a small group looking for a once in a life time experience exploring the seas.

Indonesian Phinisi sails all year round, with the destinations depending on the season. The itinerary can even be personalized when a full charter is booked, making for a truly unique sea sailing venture. Views to be had include virgin coral reefs, exquisite beaches, and untouched nature in the Komodo islands. Sailing through the more than 1500 islands of Raja Ampat is one of the more popular destination choices.

Plenty of space means plenty of comfort for all, and the Indonesian Phinisi can comfortably accommodate up to 9 guests. Everyone will enjoy their own private room, which are completely sound proof for everyone’s quiet sailing enjoyment. Both indoor and outdoor lounging decks are available and include oversized daybeds, a favorite pastime.

Guests can partake in a variety of fun and exciting water sports, including water skiing. Exploring unseen areas via sea kayaks and paddle boards is a must and makes for wonderful memories that’ll easily last a lifetime. Guests can even learn how to snorkel and scuba dive from Prana´s resident dive instructor.

The dining area is very impressive and includes a fully stocked bar, allowing guests the chance to enjoy sipping exotic cocktails while relaxing on the deck, enjoying the spectacular ocean views. The chef and on-board kitchen team cook with passion, always offering guests the most exquisite local foods, all based on Asian and Mediterranean cuisine.

Additional offerings include a luxury spa and a yoga deck that turns into an open-air cinema, perfect for a little fun nighttime entertainment.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Where is the Best Place to go to Exchange Currency for Travel?

by JuJuB


Getting ready to travel abroad? Wondering where the best place is for you to exchange currency? Because currency exchange rates are going to vary, understanding where you can exchange your currencies so you can get the best rate is a smart idea. Carefully choosing a place where you can exchange your currency for another can save you lots of money, as you’ll be avoiding both poor exchange rates and potential high fees.

Where is the Best Place to go to Exchange Currency for Travel?

In order to make sure travelers are not taken advantage of when traveling to another country, it’s best for them to exchange their currencies before they take their trip at a well-known bank or hotel.

 

  • Before Leaving Home: there are many banks in the United States that will allow their customers to purchase foreign currencies before taking a trip outside the country. All someone needs to do is contact their bank and ask if they offer this service. If they do, they need to also ask what their exchange rate is and whether or not they charge any fees for this service. Comparing the bank’s exchange rate to the global exchange rate will let people know if they’re indeed getting a good deal by using their bank to exchange their currency for travel.

 

  • Using a Known Hotel for Currency Exchange: many hotels in other countries will allow their guests to exchange their currencies at the front desk. Be sure to understand their buy and sell exchange rates. And know if they charge you 10% or less to do the transaction, that this is a fair fee.

 

  • Using a Credit Card to Exchange Currency: while using a credit card to exchange currency is often an option, understand that the exchange rates when using most credit cards are going to be high. Using a credit card that doesn’t charge any foreign transaction fees is therefore recommended.

 

Travelers who happen to have any foreign currency left over after their trip should exchange it before leaving the country, as this will allow them the best rates.

 

A few currency exchange tips:

  • Don’t let a foreign merchant charge your credit card in dollars
  • Don’t use your credit card to get cash advances in foreign countries
  • While using a currency converter website may seem convenient, the exchange rates will not only be higher, you also have to pay for the delivery charges

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Highlights of Aruba

by JuJuB


Thinking about traveling to Aruba? Where the weather is sunny all year long and the white sand beaches beckon all who walk by to come, sit down, enjoy the views and relax for a while? Add the friendly locals and the exotic cuisine and it’s easy to see why Aruba is a popular tourist attraction these days. This makes Aruba a perfect destination choice for newlyweds, families and groups of friends who are looking to have some fun and adventure. Ready to find out what some of the best highlights are when visiting this picturesque Caribbean Island?

Highlights of Aruba

The following is a list of some of the must see and must do’s when traveling to the beautiful yet fairly small island of Aruba. While Aruba is indeed a popular vacation island, it never feels too crowded. Best time to visit Aruba is between the months of April and August.

 

  • Visit Eagle Beach – ranked as one of the top ten beaches in the whole world, this highlight is a definite must see!
  • Visit the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins
  • Take a Jeep Safari Tour
  • Visit the Museums – two must see museums are the Archaeology Museum and the Historical Museum
  • Go Reef Diving – Aruba has fantastic coral reef gardens
  • Sign up for a Snorkeling Tour
  • Sign up for a Kayaking Tour
  • Sign up for a Fishing Tour
  • Take a Cruise around the Island
  • Take a Sailing Tour around the Island
  • Visit the Natural Bridge – Aruba’s most photographed attraction
  • Sign up for a Taste of Aruba Tour – explore local products made on the island, i.e. Balashi Beer and Aruhiba Cigars
  • Visit the California Lighthouse and the California Sand Dunes – located near Arashi Beach
  • Take a guided tour in the largest passenger submarine in the world!
  • Visit Eagle Beach – famous for its turtle nesting area
  • Bon Bini Festival in Oranjestad, Aruba’s capital city – Every Tuesday evening in the outer courtyard of the Historical Museum Aruba’s history is expressed through local music, art, folklore dancers, and culinary specialties. Fun!
  • Explore Aruba on horseback
  • Explore Aruba while riding ATVs, UTVs and/or Trikes
  • Go Skydiving – jump out of an airplane and enjoy the gorgeous views all the way down
  • Explore Arikok National Park
  • Visit Palm Island – a fun day trip that includes water slides, small pools for kids, snorkeling and a huge buffet for all ages to enjoy
  • Explore the Antilla Shipwreck – the largest shipwreck dive offered in the Caribbean Sea
  • Visit the Hooiberg – this volcanic formation is a must see for nature lovers

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

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