Take Off - South Florida Luxury Guide

SPECIAL FEATURE
Take Off
Sometimes you need to get away — far, far away, ideally
to a place you’ve never been. Other times you’re happy
just to have a change of scenery. Luckily, South Florida
boasts tons of opportunities for quick escapes, whether
it’s a day trip up the coast or a day spent lounging by
the pool in one of our many world-class resorts. When
you feel like changing things up, we have not one, but
two, international airports within an hour’s drive of each
other, making it easy to take off for a quick jaunt to the
Caribbean, or an adventure in Mexico, Latin America
or even across the country. In between those trips, we
only need to look to our backyard for places to relax
and rejuvenate. South Florida is one of the USA’s top
vacation destinations, and while others clamor to visit
once every couple of years, this tropical playground is
ours 365 days per year. Sometimes it really is good to
be home. – Ana Connery
Photo courtesy of Thompson Miami Beach
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STAYCATIONS
MIAMI BEACH EDITION
Spread across three and a half acres between
Collins Avenue and the turquoise waters of the
Atlantic Ocean, the new Edition is the 21stcentury reinvention of the historic Seville Hotel,
one of the most glamorous resorts in Miami
Beach throughout the 1950s. You’ll know
you’ve reached it when you spot the 18-foot
clock on the eastern face of the building, a
Seville signature restored to its original simple,
streamlined glory. Step inside this exquisite
example of Miami modern architecture and
you’ll find a lobby dressed in a classy whiteon-gold color scheme, including 24-karat gold
columns and marble floors. Choose between
nearly 300 sparsely decorated rooms and
suites as well as 28 private, sexy bungalows.
The outdoor spaces are lushly landscaped
with tropical gardens inspired by the legendary
Tropicana nightclub in Havana. Hammocks
and teak furnishings throughout provide plenty
of places to curl up with a good book. An
oversized pool and restored diving board as
well as a lap pool are perfect for cooling off on
a hot day.
BACKYARD ESCAPES
Who says you have to travel far to enjoy a luxurious getaway? These stunning South Florida
properties are either brand-new to our shores or revealing fresh (and major) redesigns.
Spend your summer checking them out, one by one.
by Ana Connery
UNDERGROUND PARTY: Whether you’re
looking to cut loose by day or night, the resort’s
ground level has everything you need. Not many
Miami hotels can claim having an entertainment
hub complete with a nightclub, bowling alley,
and ice-skating rink.
Photos courtesy of the Miami Beach Edition
SPA: The on-site spa features nine treatment
rooms nestled near a common area sprinkled
with day beds and Moroccan rugs. As far as we
know the Edition’s hammam is the only one on
the beach (the Standard, which also boasts a
hammam, is on Biscayne Bay).
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EAT AND DRINK: The Matador Room has
views of the Atlantic Ocean and locally sourced
cuisine with Latin flavors. Chandeliers and silk
walls add to the glamour of the space. Chef
Jean-Georges Vongerichten oversees the
kitchen both here and at Market, a takeout and
casual eatery inspired by the markets in Europe
— part patisserie, boulangerie and salumeria.
The poolside restaurant, Tropical, serves a
light fare menu and local brews from the Miami
Brewing Company.
800.466.9695 | editionhotels.com
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THE THOMPSON MIAMI BEACH
The best way to describe the new Thompson
hotel is playful, bohemian and chic. The Art
Deco tower is home to nearly 400 rooms, most
with balconies providing dramatic views of the
Atlantic Ocean. Inside, the minimalist décor is
dotted with pops of color and tropical prints
courtesy of British designer Martin Brudnizki.
Live music alongside two pools and full food
and beverage service on the beach set the
resort apart from its mid-beach neighbors.
THE DELRAY SANDS RESOR T
Photos courtesy of the Delray Sands Resort
Photos courtesy of the Thompson Miami Beach
STAYCATIONS
Nestled into an exclusive enclave called
Highland Beach near both Delray Beach and
Boca Raton, the Delray Sands Resort is for
those who want a quick getaway from the hustle
and bustle. In addition to the resort’s long stretch
of oceanfront, the resort boasts a tropical pool
surrounded by private cabanas and the intimate
feel of a boutique hotel. A recent multi-milliondollar renovation revealed new guestrooms and
suites with luxury linens, marble bathrooms and
ocean-inspired décor draped in turquoise blue
and lush green shades.
MUST DO: Start your days with an invigorating
walk on the crowd-less beach and end them
with a sunset stroll on the trail that winds along
the Intracoastal Waterway just across the street.
EAT AND DRINK: It’s not just guests who
love Latitudes Ocean Grille. Locals flock
there, too, as much for the delicious food as
for the spectacular Atlantic Ocean views. Sit
on the patio and enjoy the breezes or inside
the restaurant cloaked in shades of white and
blue with touches of driftwood. Floor-to-ceiling
windows provide unobstructed water views
and the menu focuses on freshly prepared
dishes that skew towards seafood. The tuna
and oysters are both superb, and the wine list is
extensive. If you only have one meal here, make
it the Sunday Champagne Brunch. Usually a
full house thanks to a mix of locals and hotel
guests, the spread is incredible, featuring both
brunch favorites and a seafood bar with fresh
oysters, scallops, ceviche and more.
SPA: The stars of the show here are the openair treatment cabanas, where you can indulge
in massages while listening to the sound of the
ocean soundtrack.
EAT AND DRINK: Helmed by Miami chef
Michelle Bernstein, Seagrape is the hotel’s
signature restaurant, though it fancies itself
more of a Floridian brasserie. Small plates, á-lacarte steaks and a raw bar rule the menu.
MUST DO: A night (or two) in the hotel’s
speakeasy, the 1930s House, is a must. Clay
floors and vintage-style furnishings infuse the
freestanding lounge with a warm, hacienda vibe
that goes perfectly with its handcrafted cocktails.
DON’T MISS: The 1960s mod uniforms worn by
the staff add a stylish, retro touch.
EXPLORE: The Shops at Mizner Park, the
Morikami Japanese Museum and Gardens and
several golf courses are all nearby, as is the
Boynton Harbor Marina for those who like to
spend time on the water.
877.793.519 | thompsonmiamibeach.com
561.578.6241 | delraysandsresort.com
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STAYCATIONS
HIDDEN
GEMS
Looking for a day escape, or even just an
afternoon? One of the many wonderful
things about living in South Florida is
the extraordinary surroundings. From
the simple to the sublime, here are
nearby spots to check out this summer.
Photo courtesy of the Boca Ration Resort & Club
Photos courtesy of Corby Kaye’s Studio Palm Beach
More South Florida Staycations
by Kevin Doran
THE BOARDWALK
21st St. to 44th St. in Miami Beach
Strolling along the elevated boardwalk on
Miami Beach will transport you to a quieter
place a bit removed from trendy, hyper-hip
South Beach. Enjoy great views of the ocean,
historic hotels, colorful lifeguard stands and
your choice of excellent places to eat and drink
along the way. Sorry, no bikes allowed.
BOCA RATON RESORT & CLUB
After a $30 million dollar investment, the
renovations of the historic Cloister building
at the Boca Raton Resort & Club, a Waldorf
Astoria property, were recently unveiled. The
refresh of the 1926 Spanish/Mediterranean
masterpiece by Addison Mizner includes
larger guest rooms with stunning views of
the Intracoastal Waterway or the tropical
courtyards, gardens and fountains that are
signature elements of this stunning property.
888.543.1286 | bocaresort.com
COLONY HOTEL
The iconic 1947 Palm Beach hotel that has
hosted presidents, movie stars and royal
heirs reopened last fall after a $9 million-dollar
facelift, leaving the classic beauty with a fresh
and tropical new look. No two rooms or suites
are exactly the same, though all now don
vivid tropical colors and floral prints courtesy
of Carleton Varney of the renowned New
York design firm, Dorothy Draper & Company
(Varney has also penned a design column
for the Palm Beach Daily News for decades).
Rooms now feature Frette linens and
artwork by “part-time Palm Beacher” Edwina
Sandys, granddaughter of Winston Churchill.
Downstairs the lobby’s crystal chandelier sets
an elegant tone thanks to its 637 crystals —
each of them hung carefully by hand.
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EAT AND DRINK: The hotel’s Polo Steaks
and Seafood is often referred to as the best
steakhouse in Palm Beach. Sit outside by the
pool or surrounded by lush bougainvillea in the
newly redesigned garden. For breakfast and
lunch al fresco, the Palm Court is as classy as
it gets. Enjoy a “proper” martini done the oldfashioned way with your crepes Suzette while
listening to live music.
EXPLORE: The shops of tony Worth Avenue
are just steps away, as is the turquoise waters
of the Atlantic Ocean.
MUST DO: Spend an evening in the Royal
Room, which is often called the best cabaret
supper club in the country.
561.655.5430 | thecolonypalmbeach.com
Photo courtesy of the Eau Palm Beach
Ted’s at YoungArts
The Boardwalk
EAU PALM BEACH
Glamour, fantasy and luxury collide in the
newly designed rooms at the Eu Palm Beach.
Designer Jonathan Adler cloaked rooms in
nautical colors accentuated with Chinoiserieinspired décor and more vintage Palm Beach
touches. All 300-plus room feature ocean
views and both balconies and cabanas with
hanging bamboo lounge chairs.
561.533.6000 | eaupalmbeach.com
southfloridaluxuryguide . com
Downtown Miami
COLLINS PARK
2100 Collins Ave., Miami Beach
Collins Park, home to the Bass Museum, the
Miami City Ballet and the Miami Beach Library,
is a neighborhood in full reinvention mode
surrounded by an incredible variety of hotels,
bars, restaurants and culture within walking
distance. Epitomizing the restoration of this
once decrepit neighborhood is the recently
restored Vintro Hotel, now transformed into a
stylish parody of vintage and pop art with a
neon sign, striped awnings, Mediterraneaninspired menu and open-air patio on the
Collins canal.
305.674.9200 | vintrohotels.com
ingredients are fresh, and the seafood comes
from a fishing area in the western Atlantic
called Area 31 that’s dedicated to keeping the
region sustainable. Oh, I get it!
Epic Hotel
305.424.5234 | area31restaurant.com
TED’S AT YOUNGARTS
The iconic blue and white tiled Bacardi
Building has stood mysteriously on Biscayne
Boulevard since the 1960s. It’s now home to
the YoungArts Foundation, an organization
established in 1981 by Lin and Ted Arison
to support the next generation of artists at a
critical juncture in their careers. Ted’s is an
intimate performance and eating space on
the 7th floor designed by world-renowned
architect Frank Ghery. Not surprisingly the vibe
is young and artsy. At last you can peek inside
this incredible building.
305.377.1140 | youngarts.org
BALL & CHAIN
Once upon a time a saloon called Ball and
Chain hosted performers like Billie Holliday,
Count Basie and Chet Baker in its 1930s
building. After an extensive restoration, Ball
and Chain reopened with the old name and
martini glass neon sign. This time around it
feels like someplace in pre-revolution Cuba,
serving music, cocktails and appetizers with
an island twist. The bar opens to a back patio
where you can enjoy live music under the stars
and smoke a good cigar if you’d like.
305.643.7820 | ballandchainmiami.com
THE MIAMI RIVER
South end of Biscayne Boulevard
The Tequesta Native Americans, Spanish
missionaries, African slaves, Julia Tuttle, Henry
Flagler and the Brickells all walked here and
made history where the Miami River meets
Biscayne Bay. Today there are skyscrapers,
archaeological sites, modern art, magnificent
yachts and incomparable views of city life
as Miami booms once again. The nearby
Metromover and free trolley system make it
easy to navigate around the downtown area to
experience the city’s rich history and elegant
architectural revitalization.
AREA 31
Offering a delicious unique perspective of
downtown from high above the Miami River
on the 16th floor of the Epic Hotel is Area
31. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner al fresco
against the backdrop of Brickell Avenue, Miami
River, Biscayne Bay and even Miami Beach
off in the distance. The menu is creative, the
Kevin Doran is a certified Miami Heritage Tour Guide
and the owner of Miami Private Tours in Miami Beach,
where he takes locals and visitors to some of the
area’s most unique places. Doran is also the president
of the Professional Tour Guide Association of Florida.
privatetoursmiami.com
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SPA
SAY SPAHHHHHH
A new destination spa tucked into the Texas foothills lures guests
with extraordinary experiences that go beyond spa basics.
by Ana Connery
Just outside Austin, Texas, nestled on a
wooded hill overlooking Lake Travis, lies
Travaasa Spa. While images of New Age
music and sliced cucumbers over the eyes
may come to mind, Travaasa is much more
than that. It busts the stereotype that spas
are all about facials and body treatments and
instead provides a more holistic approach to
a spa vacation. Start your days with sunrise
hikes and end them watching sunsets on
relaxing horseback rides through the Texas
foothills. Of course, if you choose to fill the
hours in between with a body-toning wrap —
well, no one’s going to fault you.
Seven lodges connected by meandering paths
and lush vegetation are spread across this 210acre property in the middle of the Balcones
Canyonlands Reserve. Rooms are draped in
elegant Western motifs and organic linens, not
that you’ll be spending much time in them.
A robust schedule of activities covers archery
to juicing and everything in between. There are
fitness classes galore, whether you’re a yogi or
a Zumba lover. Fruit orchards and a babbling
brook provide beautiful natural backdrops for
your downward dogs and guided meditations.
An equestrian center with horse stables is
also on site, providing lessons, guided trail
rides and opportunities to connect with these
magical creatures.
Photos courtesy of Travaasa Austin
Feeling lazy? Cool off in the spa’s infinity
pool with its comfy canopy day beds and
breathtaking view of the lake, or curl up with
a good book on any of the hammocks found
throughout the property.
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GOOD EATS: A 3.25-acre organic farm is at the
heart of every dish served in the spa restaurant,
Preserve Kitchen and Bar. Local ingredients
ensure fresh farm-to-table taste in dishes such
as roasted beet and fennel salad and Miso
trout. The food is healthful and flavorful, with
the Texas twist you’d expect from a spa tucked
into the Lone Star state’s Hill Country. Organic,
sustainable wines, many of them from local
vintners, accompany each meal. Beer lovers
will love sampling the tasty craft and organic
brews (some of them are also local).
ART OF RELAXATION: Local ingredients
also star in the spa treatments at Travaasa.
Try a Hill Country honeybee massage and
body treatment one day and an invigorating
avocado wrap the next. Several signature
treatments are inspired by native Texans such
as Willie Nelson and Janis Joplin and include
their music in the experience.
EXTRAORDINARY EXTRAS: From zip lines
to climbing walls, Travaasa offers plenty
of ways to stay active while also having a
blast. Try your hand at a challenge course
where you can test your skills and push your
limits. One of the best things about visiting
this destination spa is the opportunity to try
something you perhaps never even knew you
were interested in, whether it’s journaling to
soothe you or mountain biking to get your
adrenaline pumping. If you’re looking for
something with a little Texas flavor, there are
harmonica lessons, Texas two-step classes
and even bull riding. Even if you don’t master
a new skill at Travaasa, at least you’ll have a
great laugh trying.
DON’T MISS: The classes taught by Travaasa
resident farmer Kim Grabosky are among
the spa’s most interesting. From tours of
the greenhouse and the fragrant herb and
vegetable gardens to classes that range from
harvesting to composting, there are plenty of
opportunities to pick up skills you can use
long after you return home.
EXTEND YOUR TRIP: Spend a few days
exploring Austin, considered the live music
capital of the U.S. There are roughly 200 bars
and music venues throughout town, especially
in the Sixth Street, Red River and Warehouse
districts. The 2nd Street District downtown is
home to more than 50 shops and restaurants.
Spend a night at the opulent Driskill
(driskillhotel.com), a historic landmark, or in
the ultra sleek Kimber Modern (kimbermodern.
com), both excellent boutique hotels.
855.868.7282 | travaasa.com
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ROMANCE
SCANDINAVIAN DREAMS
With breathtaking architecture, sumptuous food and incredible shopping,
it isn’t hard to see why Copenhagen, Denmark, is one of the most romantic
cities in Europe. Find out why this stunning Scandinavian city is worth
planning a trip to rekindle your romance with your significant other.
by Lauren Resnick
DINE: Copenhagen’s gastronomic reputation
over the past decade has exploded — chefs
are getting more creative with basic Nordic
ingredients, making it an exciting city for foodies.
The fruits and vegetables are bright and delicious;
the traditional foods such as salmon, herring and
cheese are plentiful. From cafés to coffee shops,
street markets to fine dining, Copenhagen has
food worth traveling for!
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Host enchants with its stunning, simple
Danish interiors and wholesome Nordic
cuisine. Try the smoked trout with cauliflower
purée and pickled mushrooms with truffles.
cofoco.dk/da/restauranter/host/
STAY: The Hotel D’Angleterre in the heart of
the city is steps away from the Royal Theatre
and pedestrian shopping. Built in 1755, it has
a luxurious, stylish and relaxed interior, and
the service is impeccable. You may not want
to leave! dangleterre.com
DAY TRIP: Plan a visit to the enchanting
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, one of the
world’s leading museums of modern art. The
museum is designed in a unique setting where
art, nature and architecture become one. Enjoy
the romantic air of the sculptural gardens and
the breathtaking views from the top of the
hillside on which it sits. en.louisiana.dk
visitcopenhagen.com
southfloridaluxuryguide . com
Mikkel Bo and Mira Arkin
Food markets are all the rage throughout
Europe. The stalls at the Torvehallernekbh
Food Markets offer traditional Danish openface sandwiches with toppings such as
crispy bacon and egg or shrimp and roasted
peppers — something you wont find in
the U.S. Others specialize in freshly baked
Danish pastries and teas. Whatever you are
in the mood for, you’ll find it at this amazing
indoor food market. torvehallernekbh.dk
Courtesy of Host Restaurant
SPA: Europe does spas like no one else. The
luxurious Kurhotel Skodsborg just outside the
city is a true Scandinavian spa, where you
can spend the day or the night in luxurious
guest rooms. Try the Saunagus, which is an
aromatherapy sauna that comes with its own
‘Gusmester,’ or ‘spa trainer,’ who will infuse
the sauna with essential oils and the right mix
of hot and cold temperatures. For couples
who are brave enough, a dip in the Baltic Sea
across the street is one way to call yourself a
Norwegian Viking warrior. skodsborg.dk
Fiskebar serves interesting seafood without
being overly complicated. Each dish is a taste
sensation, as is the atmosphere. fiskebaren.
dk/en/
Photos courtesy of the D’Angleterre Hotel
Spend your days in Denmark’s capital city
strolling hand in hand with your sweetie
through the city’s quaint cobblestone lanes,
peeking into the many modern Danish design
shops and admiring the classic architecture.
Cuddle over a latté to people-watch from one
of the many buzzing cafés. Explore the city’s
majestic theatres, the Royal Library and the
Royal Palace. The great thing about this city is
that it is small, only 34 square miles, so you can
plan your days without feeling overwhelmed.
The locals bike everywhere, so don’t be afraid
to join the fun — docking stations throughout
the city make it easy to pick up and drop off a
bicycle as often as you like.
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SAFARI
More Exotic Cities
Photos courtesy of Stephanie Lesser
DUBAI
Known for its manmade islands, underwater
hotels and its penchant for luxury, Dubai is
making headway as an international cruise
destination while adding to the city’s over-thetop attractions. Among them are the Dubai
Eye, soon to be the world’s largest Ferris
wheel; the Dubai Frame, similar to Paris’
Grande Arche de la Défense; and Aladdin City,
an Arabian Nights–inspired tower complex.
visitdubai.com
A FLAIR FOR THE EXOTIC
Flanked by Lake Victoria and the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains,
Uganda has a richly diverse landscape. Its savannahs and rain forests are
home to an impressive array of wildlife, including the highest concentration
of primates in the world. With far fewer tourists than neighboring Kenya,
Uganda is ideal for the classic African safari.
by Stephanie Lesser
WHERE TO STAY: Conveniently located inside
the park, Paraa Safari Lodge offers safari
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drives, guided nature walks and chimp treks,
plus boat cruises to Murchison Falls — the
world’s most powerful waterfall — where you’ll
see hippos and crocodiles. Paraa also features
classic safari décor and an onsite restaurant
with a buffet of local and international cuisine.
paraalodge.com
Photo courtesy of Paraa Safari Lodge
DON’T MISS: Book an intimate SUV safari
drive through Murchison Falls National Park,
a 1,500-square-mile conservation area dotted
with acacia trees and teeming with wild game.
With an abundance of antelope species,
including the elegant kob and the tiny oribi,
plus hyenas, warthogs, elephants, lions,
giraffes and patas monkeys, there’s always
something to see. With some luck, you may
even spot a leopard. Head out near sunrise or
sunset for the best odds, and ask your tour
company to hire a Uganda Wildlife Authority
(UWA) ranger to guide your excursion.
GETTING THERE: From Entebbe International
Airport, charter a one-hour flight to Pakuba
or Bugungu airstrip, and arrange for
transportation to Paraa. Both airstrips are
just a 45-minute drive from Paraa, your final
destination on this incredible trip of a lifetime.
visituganda.com
southfloridaluxuryguide . com
ISTANBUL
Istanbul offers the perfect blend of history and
modern day luxury. Visit the opulent, 15thcentury Topkapi Palace and the 1,500-yearold Hagia Sophia church and museum.
Enjoy shopping and dining on the trendy and
pedestrian-only Istiklal Street, and visit Abdi
Ipekci Street for your favorite luxury brands.
goturkey.com
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ISLANDS
UNDER THE
RADAR
“The secluded island
is open to anyone
searching for peace
and quiet.”
The Caribbean’s proximity to South
Florida is just one reason it’s an
ideal getaway. But if you want to
bask in those turquoise blue waters
without the crowds, these islands are
just what you need.
by Leah Murr
BONAIRE
This lesser-known sister island of both Aruba
and Curacao lies just off the north coast
of South America near the western part of
Venezuela.
MUSTIQUE
WHY GO: Although the main attractions are
beneath the water’s surface, the island’s
charm doesn’t stop there. Those seeking
the laid-back island vibe of the Caribbean of
yesteryear will feel right at home. Here, the
flamingo population rivals the human one,
the circumference of the island is a protected
marine park, and the buildings are not much
taller than the palm trees surrounding them.
The islanders’ commitment to conservation
means the pristine tropical vegetation,
powdery beaches and stunning coral reefs will
remain unspoiled.
Photos courtesy of Tourism Corporation Bonaire
WHERE TO STAY: Rest your head in the
spacious suites at Harbour Village Beach Club,
and sink your toes into the resort’s secluded
private beach. It’s a prime spot since much of
Bonaire’s coastline consists of rocky cliffs and
washed-ashore coral. harbourvillage.com
DON’T MISS: With more than 350 fish species
and 86 dive sites accessible by both shore and
boats, it’s no wonder the island is renowned
as a diver’s paradise. For an extraordinary
experience, plan on exploring the sites with
the pros at VIP Diving, a full-service dive
operator that curates dives based on your
wish list. vipdiving.com
tourismbonaire.com
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Photos courtesy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority
This tranquil and privately owned island is
nestled in the region known as St. Vincent and
the Grenadines.
WHY GO: Created as a sanctuary for the rich
and famous, access to this sliver of paradise
was difficult for years when visitors had to
be pre-approved before entering. Now that
regulations have loosened, the secluded
island is open to anyone searching for
peace and quiet. Mustique is a true escape
that prides itself on what it doesn’t offer:
advertising, pollution, traffic and crowds.
WHERE TO STAY: The advantage to
vacationing on an island that caters to
celebrities is the star treatment you’re sure
to receive. The Cotton House, a former 18th
century cotton warehouse and sugar mill, has
only 17 luxurious rooms and suites set on 13
acres, so you won’t have to jockey for the best
spot on the beach. cottonhouse.net
DON’T MISS: Those craving retail therapy
should stop by the Pink House, a chic boutique
packed with designer clothing essential for
island life. pinkhousemustique.com
mustique-island.com
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Photos courtesy of GoldenIsles.com
Photos courtesy of Park City Chamber Bureau
FAMILY
KIDFRIENDLY
VACATIONS
From a laid-back island to a mountain
town in the West, these destinations
lure families with their mix of culture
and unique activities.
by Ana Connery
SOUTHERN CHARM IN THE
GOLDEN ISLES, GEORGIA
What was once the winter retreat of notable
American families such as the Vanderbilts,
Pulitzers and Rockefellers is today an idyllic
string of communities in southeast Georgia
known as the Golden Isles. Connected by vast
marshland and maritime forests, the cluster
includes St. Simons, Little St. Simons, Jekyll,
Sea and Cumberland islands. The largest,
St. Simons, has a bustling beach town vibe,
with charming streets lined with bookstores,
antiques shops, chic boutiques and sidewalk
cafés. St. Simons is the rare destination that
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manages to be lively at the center and quiet
on the outskirts while radiating both Southern
charm and hospitality. Bicycling through the
tunnels of live oaks dripping with Spanish moss
is like starring in your own fairy tale. Golfers
love the Scottish-style links surrounded by
coastal marshes, especially the stunning and
award-winning King and Prince Golf Course. A
lighthouse built in 1872 as well as Fort Frederica,
a national monument with the archaeological
remnants of a British colony, provide a peek into
the history of St. Simon’s Island.
WHERE TO STAY: The grand, luxurious and
family-friendly King and Prince Beach and Golf
Resort is listed on the National Register of Historic
Places and features both guest rooms and
condos, most with views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Have your pick of five sprawling oceanfront
swimming pools. Lounge on the beach with a
handcrafted cocktail or book a spa treatment
at the resort’s aptly named Royal Treatment
Cottage. The resort’s poolside restaurant, Echo,
offers Southern coastal cuisine for breakfast,
lunch and dinner alongside gorgeous ocean
views. The décor pays tribute to the island’s naval
history, and the menu celebrates the bounty of
local farmers with everything from sweet Georgia
pecans to wild Georgia shrimp, courtesy of chef
John Palacio. kingandprince.com
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES IN
PARK CITY, UTAH
BEST ISLAND DINING: The Coastal Kitchen
and Raw Bar (coastalkitchenandrawbar.net) is
the perfect spot to taste sweet local shrimp and
freshly shucked Georgia oysters. Try the shrimp
and grits or the crab bisque made with blue
Georgia crabs. Tucked into a marina across
from Neptune Park, the views are as superb
as the service. Another good bet is Halyard’s
(halyardsrestaurant.com), a restaurant with food
so good it hosts cooking classes for locals and
visitors alike. Start with the blackened green
tomatoes with pimiento cheese followed by
braised short ribs or jerk-rubbed fresh snapper.
Specialty cocktails with names like Lord Da
Byron give this elegant restaurant a regal touch.
Park City is a charming, century-old mining town
known as a premiere winter ski destination
that morphs into a family-friendly, outdoor
playground during the warmer months. Three
world-class resorts — Canyons, Deer Valley
and Park City Mountain Resort — are within a
few miles of the historic downtown, itself only
35 minutes from the Salt Lake City airport.
Stroll Main Street with its bevy of buildings
on the National Register of Historic Places,
and you’ll uncover trendy boutiques selling
everything from stilettos to cowboy boots as
well as lively restaurants and art galleries.
MUST DO: Paddle through the cosal marshes
and past beautiful undeveloped barrier islands
on a two-hour guided kayak tour with Southeast
Adventure. You’ll stop on remote islands where
you can walk around and enjoy breathtaking
views. Nature tours and stand-up paddleboarding
are also available. southeastadventure.com
goldenisles.com
southfloridaluxuryguide . com
MUST DO: Utah is among the highest-rated
mountain biking destinations in the world. The
town’s ski lifts whisk cyclists to adrenalinepumping, mountain biking trails during the
summer. Younger riders can opt for a gentler,
scenic ride through the historic district.
Surrounded by 90 mountain lakes, Park City
is also perfect for river rafting and tubing. The
experts at Destination Sports and Adventures
have years of experience catering to families.
destinationsports.com
FLY HIGH: Home of the 2002 Olympic Winter
Games, Utah Olympic Park gives daredevils
the chance to fly through the air on the Xtreme
Zipline, the world’s steepest. Add to this
racing down an Olympic bobsled track at 70
mph and riding a two-seater alpine coaster,
and you have a trio of lifetime thrills.
WHERE TO STAY: The Grand Summit Hotel is
the epitome of luxury, and it’s centrally located
inside the Canyons Resort. Spacious rooms,
suites and condos as well as several elegant
restaurants all have mountain views. The
resort also has an on-site spa, but you don’t
need to book a treatment to enjoy access to
the pool, saunas and steam rooms. For those
who want to stay in the heart of downtown,
the charming Washington School House
(washingtonschoolhouse.com) is an intimate,
historic building that was built in 1889 and
recently turned into a chic bed and breakfast.
Kids will love the schoolhouse vibe; parents
will appreciate the luxury finishes and service.
canyonsresort.com
throughout Park City create special menus
served at one long table running down the
center of historic Main Street as live music
infuses the ambience with a festival vibe.
What could be cooler than dining outdoors in
the Rockies? savorthesummit.com
visitparkcity.com
SAVE THE DATE: On June 21, downtown
restaurants host Savor the Summit, the
mother of all family dinner parties. Restaurants
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VILLAS
More Great Luxury
Villa Companies
CURAÇAO, CARIBBEAN
Unlike other Caribbean islands, Curaçao
offers dozens of beaches, lush hillsides, some
of the best diving in the world and a vibrant
capital city, Willemstad, that also happens to
be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
STAY: Curacao Island Rentals is a villa rental
company with a wide variety of options,
each reflecting a unique aspect of Curaçao’s
Dutch-influenced architecture. In addition to
having a concierge at your beck and call 24
hours a day, a butler, private chef, personal
driver and a nanny also can be arranged.
curacaoislandrentals.com
CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO
Cabo, as the locals call it, is a breathtaking
peninsula dotted with expansive resorts and
magical sunsets where the Sea of Cortez
meets the Pacific Ocean. Celebrities flock
here in droves, and many look to private and
luxurious villas as a way to escape the crowds.
EXPLORE: Filled with colorful, colonial Dutch
buildings, Willemstad is also the home of
BLVD (pronounced boulevard), a maze of
cafés, shops and family attractions. Stroll
into stores selling indigenous Curaçao aloe
vera products, then wait for the sun to set
and watch as the scene morphs into a hub for
nightlife, especially in the Mambo Beach Club
area. mambobeach.com
STAY: Luxury Villa Collections offers threeto five-bedroom villas as well as expansive
condos for those looking for a personalized
and secluded vacation experience. Every
property has an ocean view, ample outdoor
living space, satellite television, wireless
Internet, daily housekeeping service and more.
A concierge is available around the clock if you
want to arrange activities and transportation
guides. The company even has Pilates
instructors and massage therapists who can
come to you. luxuryvillacollections.com
DINE: Two great local waterfront restaurants
include Bistro Le Clochard and De Gouvernuer
(de-gouvernuer.com), both serving traditional
fare such as keshi yena, a baked dish of
chicken, dates, olives, spices and cheese.
One of the perks of villa rentals is that you
can opt to cook your own meal or have a
private chef do it for you. In either case, visit
the Floating Market in the Punda waterfront
district and meet local vendors selling fresh
fish and produce directly off their fishing
boats. bistroleclochard.com
EXPLORE: Plaza Amelia Wilkes is the town’s
main district with shops, cafes and plenty
of bars. It’s also the hub for nightlife. From
kayaking to sportfishing, at least one day spent
on the water is practically mandatory in Cabo
San Lucas. Any of the boating companies and
outfitters along the harbor near town will whisk
you away to a fabulous water adventure.
curacao.com
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LUXURY RETREATS
Each of the 2,000 villas across 50 destinations
is vigorously inspected by a team of 150-plus
travel experts, so you know you’re choosing
from a carefully curated list of the world’s best.
luxuryretreats.com
Head inland to hike the desert canyons and
see beautiful waterfalls. Baja Outback leads
daylong tours into the foothills of the Sierra de
la Laguna, just north of Cabo.
bajaoutback.com
DINE: Say the word and a private chef is
yours for the duration of your stay with Luxury
Villa Collections. Gourmet meals are par for
the course, and a concierge will take care
of groceries and supplies, so you can start
sipping margaritas immediately upon arrival.
Dining out? La Fonda (52 624 143 6926) offers
authentic Mexican cuisine in a fun, folkloric
setting. For casual, delicious fare, try the tacos
made with handmade tortillas at Sharky’s on
Medano Beach. sharkysmedanobeach.com
Courtesy of Villas of Distinction
by Ana Connery
Photos courtesy of Luxury Villa Collections
Photos courtesy of the Curacao Tourist Board
Luxury villa rentals are among the
top travel trends at the moment,
catering to discerning travelers who
seek a level of privacy and service
that even the swankiest hotels and
resorts can’t offer.
Courtesy of Luxury Retreats
HOME
AWAY
Sometimes a hotel room isn’t enough.
visitloscabos.com
VILLAS OF DISTINCTION
From a one-bedroom hideaway in a remote
corner of Europe to a sprawling 42-bedroom
estate, this villa company has it. Started in
1989, they have a breadth of experience
that a lot of other villa companies don’t.
villasofdistinction.com
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ADVENTURE
UNDER-WATER
ESCAPADES
For the type of experience
that
fills bucket lists, snorkeling and
swimming with whale sharks in
Isla Mujeres, Mexico, is definitely a
“must-do.” Do you dare?
by Leah Murr
Leaping into open water brimming with whale
sharks may sound intimidating, but it’s a oncein-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget.
These largest fish in the sea are filter feeders,
meaning the plankton along the ocean surface
is the only thing on their menu. Lucky for those
who love to snorkel, these feeding habits are
what lure hundreds of migrating whale sharks
every year to the nutrient-rich waters of Isla
Mujeres, an island off the coast of Cancun,
Mexico. Thanks to their docile and even
playful demeanor, these gentle giants don’t
mind a few flipper-wearing humans observing
from the sidelines (this is strictly a spectator
sport). Simply put, being in the presence
of these graceful polka-dotted creatures is
utterly captivating, if not magical.
BOOK IT: Solo Bueco is a licensed tour
operator that hosts whale shark swims for
about $100, along with other unique oceanbased tours. solobuceo.com
WHEN TO GO: Whale shark season runs from
May until September, with July and August
being the peak months.
WHERE TO STAY: Cancun has a robust tourism
industry, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find
serenity among the crowds. You won’t regret
booking a room at Secrets The Vine Cancun
Resort and Spa, an elegant, adults-only, allinclusive property. thevinecancun.com
Photos courtesy of Cancun CVB
WHERE TO DINE: The fixed three-course meal
at Checándole, a local resturant specializing
in chilango (Mexican City cuisine), should top
your list.
WHAT TO SEE: Check another UNESCO
World Heritage Site off your list by visiting
Chichen Itza, one of the most accessible
ancient Mayan ruins. Built to impress, the
pyramid known as El Castillo has become the
site’s towering icon and is worth the two-hour
road trip.
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WEEKENDS
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA
QUICK
ESCAPES
Photos courtesy of nycgo.com
Take off for long weekends to these
two exciting cities, where fine dining,
shopping and good old-fashioned revelry
are just a short plane ride away.
by Ana Connery
NEW YORK, NEW YORK
If you can’t do it in New York City, you won’t be
able to do it anywhere. That’s because anything
goes in this city. The energy, the camaraderie
among locals — all 8 million of them — and
the stellar dining, theater and shopping make
it the kind of city you want to visit over and
over again.
EXPLORE: Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge
for breathtaking city views. Ride the ferry to
Governors Island, a public park pulsing with
energy in the style of Central Park (but with
locals in lieu of tourists). Claim a hammock
or ride a city bike along its trails. Summer is
prime time for Shakespeare in the Park, which
features celebrities performing some of the
poet’s most famous works in Central Park.
shakespeareinthepark.org
SHOP: Uncover vintage finds in the East
Village and trendy retailers in SoHo. Don’t miss
Apartment by the Line, where the stylish goods
are displayed exactly as you’d use them with
clothes in closets and luxurious soaps next to
chic sinks. theline.com
MUST DO: Stroll through High Line Park, a
once run-down elevated train track that’s been
converted into a pedestrian promenade.
thehighline.org
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WHERE TO DINE: For gastropub fare, try the
Breslin Bar and Dining Room (thebreslin.com)
inside the hipster Ace Hotel, where rooms come
with retro record players. In the West Village,
a secret green door (it’s off to the side of the
boarded-up storefront) leads into 447 Hudson
Clearwater (hudsonclearwater.com), a hot spot
where the handcrafted cocktails are as coveted
as the rustic American cuisine. For a classic
steakhouse experience, try Keens (keens.com).
Nobody does brunch like New Yorkers. Try
Gemma in the East Village (theboweryhotel.com)
or the Park near the High Line. (theparknyc.com)
PEACE AND QUIET: Aire Ancient Baths is an
oasis of calm where water is the star attraction.
The thermal pools in this public bathhouse
run the gamut from cold to hot and everything
in between. Massages are also available.
ancientbathsny.com
STAY: The freshly gentrified Lower East Side
has exploded in recent years with trendy
bars and cafes. The new Ludlow Hotel by
nightlife, hotel and restaurant impresario
Sean MacPherson features Moroccan rugs,
limestone fireplaces and a buzzing lounge and
patio. ludlowhotel.com
Photos courtesy of New Orleans CVB
The heart of this city is, of course, the French
Quarter, known as much for its music and
culture as for its food. Stroll through the
famous district and you’ll be surrounded by a
symphony of smells and sounds spilling out of
cafés and bars, where the spirits are lively in
more ways than one.
WHERE TO DINE: Gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée
— New Orleans cuisine is unlike any other, and
it’s a fabulous reason to visit the city that likes
to “let the good times roll.” A mix of Cajun and
Creole, dishes here pop with flavorful spices you
won’t taste anywhere else. Spanish and French
architectural styles set the scene for the medley
of culinary influences, including fresh seafood
from nearby bayous and the Gulf of Mexico.
The blueberry mojitos at the church-inspired
St. Joe’s Bar (stjoesbar.com) are legendary.
Cochon Butcher (cochonbutcher.com) is a wine
bar and meat market in the newly revitalized
Warehouse District. Landmark restaurants such
as Brennan’s (brennansneworleans.com) and
Antoine’s (antoines.com) serve baked oysters
Rockefeller and bananas foster, but make time
for the tiny mom-and-pop spots where you
can dig into an authentic muffuletta sandwich.
Follow that with café au lait and beignets from
the famous Café du Monde (cafedumonde.com)
or a late-night “hurricane” cocktail to the sound
of live jazz at Preservation Hall (preservationhall
.com).
EXPLORE: Get a feel for the city with a ride
on the iconic St. Charles Streetcar, which
winds from the French Quarter to the Garden
District and Riverbend neighborhoods —as it
has for more than 150 years. Check out the
chic boutiques along Magazine Street such
as Holt McCall (holtmccall.com) as well as
the new Exodus Goods (exodusgoods.us),
where Beyonce’s sister, Solange, presides as
creative director over the stylish goods.
STAY: The legendary Roosevelt Hotel manages
to exude modern elegance while staying true
to its 1893 roots. Marble floors, sparkling
chandeliers and a Guerlain Spa welcome you
home after a day spent exploring this iconic city.
therooseveltneworleans.com
neworleanscvb.com
nycgo.com
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