Happy New Year from The Luxury Travel Bible

To all The Luxury Travel Bible readers we wish you a very happy, healthy and luxury New Year. Thank you for all the support in 2010 since our launch in April. See you in 2011! - TLTB team

Bonne Annee, Kenourios Chronos, Felice anno nuovo, Szczesliwego Nowego Roku, Feliz Ano Novo, Feliz Ano ~Nuevo, Blwyddyn Newydd Dda, Gott nytt år, S Novim Godom, Bliain nua fe mhaise dhuit, Kenourios Chronos, Gelukkige nuwe jaar, Onnellista uutta vuotta,blwyddyn newydd dda

Reading for the first class lounge

Two of the stylish, travel books Santa brought Christmas morning... Audrey Hepburn style and The Art of Travel - some perfect reading for my next The Luxury Travel Bible trip! SB

Happy Holidays

May your wrapping be festive &; all your destinations bright: Happy Holidays to our readers from all of us here at The Luxury Travel Bible. Many thanks for all your amazing support throughout 2010 since our April launch and here's to a luxury 2011!

An inspiring charitable, challenge.

The last few weeks in The Luxury Travel Bible office have been full of mince pies, hot chocolates and Christmas parties with a good dose of cocktails and canapés. That is why we are even MORE impressed with the amazing achievement of Neil O'Maonaigh-Lennon. While the rest of us have been getting festively as full as the Christmas goose Neil has been running his "Marathon Mad" challenge of 105 marathons in 105 days (yes you did read that correctly, 105 marathons in just 105 days). Starting in Brighton on September 30th this challenge has taken Neil around the United Kingdom, in often difficult weather conditions. He is running the marathons in aid of Cancer Research UK and has raised £10,000. Cancer Research is the world's leading charity dedicated to beating cancer through research. The organisation has saved millions of lives by discovering new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer. Neil is due to complete his 105th marathon on 23rd December back where he started at Brighton Pier.

'Marathonman 105' follows Neil's 2008 challenge of running 30 Marathons in 30 days around Taiwan. We can't wait to see what he attempts next but TLTB's only hope now is that he takes a very well deserved rest over Christmas and New Year. SB

To see more of Neil's journey around the country and to donate visit http://www.marathonmad105.com/ , http://www.justgiving.com/Neil-O-Maonaigh-Lennon

Lee Westwood's first golf academy outside UK

World Number One golfer Lee Westwood is to open his first overseas junior golf academy next summer at the Spainish five-star La Manga Club resort. Already a popular resort for active families this latest facility will allow junior luxies to follow in the footsteps of one of the world's best golfers. The academy will operate between August 1-5 and also 8-12 will follow a programme designed by Westwood, teaching children all aspects of the game. The academy will run for two hours each day and will be open to boys and girls aged between seven to 11 and 12-16 years. Westwood said: "I am delighted to be working with La Manga Club on my first academy outside of the UK. I hope that the principles that have helped me to rise to the top of the game will be a source of great benefit and encouragement to young players both on and off the golf course."
http://www.lamangaclub.com/



Sleep like a King

Part of the Palace of Versailles, once the setting for French state affairs, popular tourist destination and symbol of French decadence, is set to accommodate guests from late 2011. Belgian company, Ivy International SA, is to turn The Hotel du Grand Controle, traditionally home to the palace's treasurers, into a luxury 23-bedroom hotel. The 5.5 million euro (7.3 million US dollars) renovation of the 1,700 square-metre building, which was built in the 1680s by architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart, will be led by Frederic Didier, chief architect for historic monuments. The company will lease the building for 30 years and pay back rent each year to the Chateau de Versailles. This fee will be used to complete necessary renovation work to the building.

The construction of this new hotel was made possible by a 2009 agreement between the French Culture Ministry and the Tourism Department that was intended to boost the economic development of French historical and cultural landmarks.

The UNESCO World Heritage Centre has named the Palace of Versailles as one of the greatest achievements of 18th-century French art.
en.chateauversailles.fr

Asia's first 'Snow Polo'

The recently opened Tianjin Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club ("Metropolitan Polo Club"), with the largest facilities in China, will host Asia's first 'Snow Polo' tournament from February 15th to 20th 2011. The tournament, which follows the Chinese New Year holidays, will have an Alpine village and ice sculptures as its backdrop. This prestigious competition will be played between six teams from the world's leading polo playing nations: England, France, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina and China. Two matches will be played daily in a league format, 14 goal open, during the week-long event.

http://www.metropolitanpoloclub.com/ http://www.goldinmetropolitanhotel.com/

LUX Travellers' Favourite Airports

LUXURY TRAVELLERS who get on and off planes frequently all have their own travelling rituals. I am one of those people who always checks the destination tag on my luggage before it disappears along the conveyor belt just to make sure my suitcase isn't heading for Hawaii while I'm bound for the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok. On a trip to Spain a few years ago my suitcase went on a grand tour of Europe, finally turning up three days later. It spent the rest of the trip chasing me, consistently arriving at various posadas (inns) just after I had departed. The bag obviously had a good time because when I finally got it back I found a coaster in there from a trendy nightclub in Cordoba that I hadn't been anywhere near. Read More

O' Christmas Tree, how luxurious are your branches

What is thought to be the world's most expensive Christmas tree has been unveiled by Emirates Palace hotel, Abu Dhabi. Located in the hotel's lobby the 13-metre fake tree is decorated with silver and gold bows, ornaments and fairy lights. So far, so normal. What takes this tree into the luxury sphere is the diamonds, pearls, emeralds, sapphires and other precious stones necklaces, earrings and other jewellery draped over the branches. The estimated value of the decorations is over $US11million. The hotel plan to contact the Guinness Book of Records about the tree, which will remain in the hotel lobby until the end of the year, to see if it qualifies.

We have come to expect nothing less from the hotel that introduced a vending machine that dispenses gold bars (in weights of 1 gram, 5 gram and 10 gram bars of gold as well as gold coins) in March.

http://www.emiratespalace.com/

NEW TOP TEN: Hotels in Movies

All those corridors and bedrooms... hotels are the perfect location for film excitement, suspense, and hanky-panky. And there's many a movie which has borrowed its glamour from an iconic hotel. Find out which have been voted into the world's top ten movie locations.  http://bit.ly/fpdoha

NEW TOP TEN: Outdoor Ice Rinks

There's nothing like taking a spin on the ice for turning staid grownups into larky kids, and fractious kids into happy little holiday munchkins. Do it outdoors, on one of the world's most iconic ice rinks, and get yourself classic holiday experience. http://bit.ly/hKcuPo

TOP TEN: Ice Cool Hotels

Baby it's cold outside...But surprisingly cosy inside! The ultimate winter break destination. There's no fake snow on the windows of these ice hotels: they really are the ultimate winter-break locations. The luxury is the sheer madness of the idea, and the fact that it all melts away come spring...

http://bit.ly/dRaXHW

Open Passport: Robert Pattinson & Kristen Stewart

Always likely candidates for a clinch under the mistletoe, they have become internationally famous for starring as teenage mis-fit Bella and dark and brooding vampire Edward Cullen in the Twilight Saga. Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart open their passports and reveal their favourite travel destinations. http://bit.ly/c7Pcjb

 

December issue

The Christmas issue of TLTB has been sent out so check you inbox. This month we unwrap some perfect Christmas check-ins; places where yuletide can be celebrated in truly traditional style. If you haven't already signed up to TLTB join here and we will send you the latest issue faster than you can say 'check me into first class'.

                    

Skypoint Observation Deck Relaunched

The Luxury Travel Bible enjoyed a heavenly evening at the relaunch of the new Skypoint Observation Deck, Q1's top attraction, last night. The highlight was watching winged angels pour Champagne from above a sparkling ensemble of guests who included Australian motorcycle legend and local Mick Doohan. Donned in flowing white drapery and blue mood lighting the deck lounge provided a magical cloud-like setting to watch a dramatic sunset over the glittering Gold Coast. TLTB anticipates this will quickly become one of the GC's hottest spots to party on Friday and Saturday nights - with a DJ providing the sky tunes from 8pm. http://www.q1.com.au/

Smart, yet stylish footwear

When you travel as much as The Luxury Travel Bible does we are always on the lookout for smarter ways to pack. That's why we think Redfoot Shoes' patented split-sole, folding shoes are such a great stocking filler for the traveller in your life (or for yourself). Stylish ballet flats for women that fold down to half their size, and that come with a very handy bag, take up hardly any space in your luggage. They offer comfort and support when sightseeing and are great to keep in your bag when the killer heels get too much at the end of the night. TLTB's golfing correspondent is also very impressed with Redfoot for Men which are perfect to wear in the clubhouse after a game. Redfoot Men are both small enough to fit in your golf bag yet smart enough to wear when having a well-deserved drink after a round of 18. Redfoot was developed by The Bacup Shoe Company, a family-run company that was established in 1928.

TLTB recently travelled with some Redfoot Shoes and it was a great relief not to have a heavy carry-on half full of shoes (as is so often the case). SB

Luxury link: http://www.redfootshoes.com/

'Ice' on the Cake

Eco retreat Frégate Island Private, in the Seychelles have created the world's most exclusive dessert. Teaming up with diamond cutting company, Rosy Blue, the diamond-studded dessert is worth in excess of US$5 million. This one-of-a-kind chocolate tart was created by Maitre Andre Barbe, Frégate's chef patissier and is decorated with no fewer than 929 diamonds, totalling 151.92 carats - including seven individual stones of between 5.05 and 9.04 carats. The dessert also comes with two First Class Emirates tickets to the Seychelles from any destination in the world and one week stay for two at the retreat. The dessert's purchaser can choose which private location on the retreat to present the dessert. The Luxury Travel Bible can't think of any better 'frosting' for dessert on Valentine's day (or any other day for that matter).

The diamonds, independently certified by the Gemological Institute of America, include one worth over US$1million on its own - an 8.04 carat, internally flawless Round Brilliant stone colour graded D. A further two internally flawless stones weigh 7.05 and 6.63 carats respectively, while the largest of the diamonds, at 9.04 carats, is graded VVS1 for clarity. http://www.fregate.com/

The art of sending postcards

Lonely Planet has released what they feel will be travel's 'Ten best things to do in 2011'. Their list supports the view that The Luxury Travel Bible has been thinking for a while; that 2011 will be a very exciting year in travel. However there was one suggestion on their list that made TLTB laugh due to a recent piece of mail. Number ten on their list was the call to reject the emails, texts and phones calls when travelling and return to the art of writing and sending postcards. 'Great idea' says TLTB especially after one member of the editorial team was recently asked "I didn't know you had gone to Vietnam again". They had not been in that part of the world since a holiday in 2008 but that didn't stop a postcard (sent from Hoi An in March 2008) dropping through a letterbox in England just a few weeks ago. It arrived looking slightly battered (who knows what sort of journey it has been on over the past two years) but it proves that the art of the postcard never dies. It acted as a great reminder for the sender of a trip over two years prior - the written description of the town's colourful lanterns brought back lots of memories. 

            

If you are unable to completely step away from the technology HazelMail website (also available as an iPhone app) allows travellers to upload a digital photo and they will convert this into a postcard and send it to your chosen recipient. SB

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/ http://www.hazelmail.com/

Q1's QDeck to be unveiled

Gold Coast icon Q1 and its top attraction will hit the spotlight again tonight when the million-dollar makeover of the QDeck is unveiled. VIP guests attending the party in the sky at the new Skypoint Observation Deck will enjoy unrivalled views of the coast from Australia's highest altitude bar - accompanied by signature cocktails and canapés and music by rising star DJ Havanna Brown.

While a sophisticated cocktail lounge by night, by day visitors to the deck will also be able to learn more about the Gold Coast's iconic surf history and view some exclusive memorabilia at the brand new Surf World as well as check out the brand new theatrette with "Icons of the Gold Coast" paying homage to the people that have shaped this glittering city.The Observation Deck is the newest attraction for Ardent Leisure which owns the Gold Coast's popular Dreamworld and WhiteWater World theme parks. http://www.q1.com.au/

Lufthansa adds A380 to JFK-Frankfurt route

Another airline is adding the A380 on a route into New York's JFK airport. Lufthansa will begin flying an A380 route into JFK from February 18 next year, operating a twice-weekly service to Frankfurt. The airline will increase the service on the JFK-Frankfurt route building up to a daily service by mid-April. Lufthansa will become the third airline to fly A380 to JFK, following Emirates and Air France. JFK will become Lufthansa's fourth A380 destination joining Beijing, Johannesburg and Tokyo. www.lufthansa.com

The Goring

We hear that Kate Middleton is considering The Goring Hotel to accommodate her family during her wedding. Good choice we say! Read the hotel's Chief Executive Jeremy Goring's Expert Opinion here.

Relais Santa Croce joins Relais & Châteaux

Relais Santa Croce, the Florentine property of the Baglioni Hotels Collection, has been announced as the latest member of the Relais & Châteaux association. This historic hotel sits in the heart of Florence and is housed in a palace built by the Marquis Baldinucci in 1700. Since its recent restoration great care has been taken to preserve the furnishings, fabrics and original frescoes. The 24 individual rooms are all decorated with antiques and furniture by Italian designers. Relais Santa Croce is part of the Baglioni Hotels Collection , which has 11 properties, including Luna Hotel Baglioni.

http://www.baglionihotels.com/

Christmas is coming...

This beautiful Christmas card arrived for The Luxury Travel Bible earlier ... very appropriate considering the feature that we have coming up next week!



Etihad Airways open new premium lounge

Etihad Airways have opened its latest premium lounge in Manchester Airport's Terminal 1. Continuing the airlines commitment to the North West of England the Etihad Pearl Business class guests were the first to experience the lounge following the official opening by Manchester City Football Club (MCFC) manager, Roberto Mancini; Garry Cook, MCFC Chief Executive; and Mike Summerbee, MCFC ambassador.

The lounge features include five-star dining facilities, business centre, family room for the junior luxies, relaxation area, prayer room and expansive views over the airport's runway. The lounge will also feature a specially designed gallery showcasing memorabilia of Manchester City Football Club, which Etihad has sponsored since 2009. http://www.etihadairways.com/

Let's go to the Movies

As the official hotel partner for Sydney, Australia's St. George OpenAir cinema, InterContinental Sydney is offering the ultimate VIP pre- and post-cinema experience. Sydney's open air cinema allows movie-goers to experience a movie under the stars against the stunning Sydney Harbour backdrop. Sydney InterContinental's Open Air Cinema package includes overnight accommodation at InterContinental Sydney, valet parking and two adult tickets to St George Open Air Cinema, located just minutes from the hotel in the Royal Botanic Gardens. To complete the VIP experience guest can upgrade to a Club InterContinental guest room and gain access to the exclusive Club InterContinental lounge featuring an outdoor terrace and breathtaking views over the harbour. The lounge includes deluxe breakfast, morning and afternoon tea, and extensive pre-cinema drinks and canapés.

InterContinental Sydney's Open Air package is available throughout the 36-night, 2011 season of St. George OpenAir Cinema, commencing January 12 and closing on February 19.

www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental http://www.stgeorgeopenair.com.au/

Treetop dining at Six Senses

Dining at Six Senses has always been special but now this has been taken to new heights with the recently launched Treepod Dining experience at Soneva Kiri by Six Senses. Situated at one of the best vantage points in the resort guests board the treepod at ground level and then are gently hoisted 16 feet in the air into the tall, native massang trees. Host Khun Lek accesses the diners through the air on a zip line coming from a small platform perched half way down the hill. Once Lek has served the meal he zips back down the hill, discreetly of course, but is always on hand should the guests need him.

One achievement that the resort is particularly proud of is that the structure was built without any bolts of attachments into the trees.

Breakfast, Lunch or dinner are available at the Treepod and menus follow jungle themes such as 'Canapés in the Canopy', 'Forager's Basket', 'Woodland Offerings', using produce predominantly from the resort's organic gardens or the island of Koh Kood. With birds' eye views over the stunning scenery and the only other company being the odd butterfly or the interruption of the swaying leaves this dining experience is one to remember. The Luxury Travel Bible has heard that even those without a head for heights are enjoying this unusual experience. SB

Luxury link: http://www.sixsenses.com/



Stargazing by TLTB

Today's news about the rare astronomic events at Uluru (see below) will be stunning. But year-round stargazing is available in this area. On a visit to Uluru a year ago the pitch-black sky, millions of bright stars and the odd shooting one, made for an unforgettable moment. A simply stunning area. SB

Stargazing at Ayers Rock Resort

Uluru Kata-Tjuta National Park is always a spectacular location to visit however during upcoming dates in December it is even more special. Two rare astronomic events will be occurring and guests at Ayers Rock Resort, gateway to the National Park, will be able to witness the Geminids Meteor Shower which will peak on the 13 and 14 December where there may be up to 120 meterors per hour visible in the sky. On the 21 December guests will witness a rare total lunar eclipse. The famed Sounds of Silence dining experience which is served in the desert under the stars will be on offer by the resort. http://www.ayersrockresort.com.au/

Vigilius Mountain Resort's new chef

Design Hotels member Vigilius Mountain Resort has announced Mauro Buffo as its new chef at their Restaurant 1500 from February 2011. The luxurious eco-resort's restaurant is known for its diverse menu and modern menu. Buffo will also serve gluten free dishes. Buffo will create a range of themed menus that will reflect his many stints and travels around the world but will also be paying homage to the region's culinary traditions and make use of the local ingredients from the area's farms. The wine cellar at Restaurant 1500 is very well stocked to compliment the dishes on offer. The Vigilius Mountain Resort is located at a 1,500 metres altitude and is only accessible by cable car. www.designhotels.com/vigilius

Posted 8/12/10

Much better than socks

One of the big questions this time of year is 'What do you get the person who has everything?' One option is a voucher to stay at luxury Huka Lodge, New Zealand - so much better than a pair of socks! To be used during 2011 the packages range from a three course lunch by Michelin-starred chef Michel Louws to a champagne helicopter ride over the region's spectacular mountain and lake scenery. The vouchers are also redeemable for a stay at the lodge which was designed by luxury hotels designer, Virignia Fisher.

http://www.hukalodge.com/

Hansar Bangkok opens January 2011

Will this be one of the first hotel openings of 2011? The new 94-suite Hansar Bangkok will open its doors on 4th January 2011. Each of the 94 suites feature contemporary design by Singapore based WOHA, and wi-fi, flatscreen TVs, DVD players and iPod docking stations, blissful king-sized plus beds, rainshowers and free-standing terrazzo bathtubs. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World the hotel is part of Hansar Hotels and Resorts which also opened Hansar Samui, a 74 room beachfront resort, in July.

www.hansarbangkok.com/  www.slh.com/hansarbangkok

A day of contrast for TLTB

Today has been a day of contrast for The Luxury Travel Bible. From a warm, sunny Friday morning in Sotogrande, Spain...

... to a cold London afternoon with thick snow on the ground.

Reservations for Heston Blumenthal now open

Reservations will open at 9am today (1/12/2010) for celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal's first London restaurant 'Dinner by Heston Blumenthal' at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London. This new restaurant will open its doors in January 2011 and will offer guests uninterrupted views over Hyde Park, floor to ceiling glass walls giving a glimpse into the open kitchen and a 'contemporary stainless steel pulley system modelled on a 16th century design for the Royal British Court's kitchens, the gears and cranks of which resemble the craftsmanship of an oversized watch, mechanically rotating a spit over an open fire'. Serving lunch, dinner and afternoon tea the kitchen will be headed by Ashley Palmer-Watts who has worked with Blumenthal at his 'The Fat Duck' restaurant for nine years as Group Executive Chef. With dishes such as snail porridge and egg and bacon ice cream making Blumenthal famous those wishing to be one of the first to experience his novel approach to food in the capital should book quickly. www.mandarinoriental.com/london/ 

Shangri-La Boracay Resort & Spa

The Luxury Travel Bible is looking relaxed and ready for the pre-Christmas rush after three days chilling out at Shangri-La's luxe Boracay Resort and Spa, in the Philippines. We'll especially miss Butler Mike (who magically appeared within seconds of being summoned by speed dial) along with the gorgeous ocean views from the veranda of our private tree-house villa complete with jaccuzzi. Also memorable were the champagne toasts and seafood barbecue on the beach and an morning of blissful pampering in Shangri-La's signature Chi spa sanctuary. Watch out for the full review, coming soon.

Luxury Hotels: Coworth Park, Ascot

I've looked outside, and I can't see a tweed-liveried doorman waiting with a little covered buggy to drive me to dinner. This is disappointing. It's the after-Coworth effect.

Let me warn you about leaving Coworth Park: as you drive out through the gates, it's going to come as shock to find that all the cars on the roads of rural Berkshire are not gleaming Bentleys, Jaguars and Audis. That all the English countryside is not as gorgeously groomed as Coworth's parkland, that all service is not charmingly attentive in a natty tweed suit, and that you might come to four o'clock in the afternoon and not find the most perfect little macaroon next to your cup of tea. Read More...

Luxury Hotels in Luang Prabang

Laid-back Luang Prabang in Laos is the latest word in luxury, according to Sophie Davies of Mr & Mrs Smith ...

If you were hunting for a hot-bed of heavenly boutique hotels where would you look? Try Luang Prabang, Laos's languidly lush northern outpost, where a crop of inspiring boltholes is tempting style-conscious travellers to venture off the beaten trail. In fact, Mr & Mrs Smith has unearthed more creative gems in this sleepy Mekong-side getaway than in many a self-aware major metropolis. Read More.

Hotels with a Heart

The Luxury Travel Bible loves a hotel with a heart. As part of the Winter promotion from the 5th to the 31st January two boutique townhouse hotels will be doing their bit for charity when they raise funds for children in the UK and abroad. Located in the borough of Kensington and Chelsea The Cranley Hotel and The Royal Park Hotel, situated on the edge of Hyde Park will be charging a flat rate of £50 (subject to availability) including a continental breakfast. Guests will then be asked to pay what they believe the stay is actually worth. Any money received over the £50 (+VAT) rate at The Cranley will be donated to Ndoro Children's Charity. Money raised at The Royal Park will be donated to the NSPCC. http://www.thecranley.com/ http://www.theroyalpark.com/

The Savoy Grill re-opens

With a history dating back from 1889 and a rich history of stars, glamour and style it is a welcome return for The Savoy Grill. After the major refurbishment of the entire hotel one of London's most iconic restaurants is reopening, as part of Gordon Ramsay Holdings, today (29/11/10). Chef Director, Stuart Gillies, alongside Head Chef Andy Cook, have created a menu that is inspired by classic British and French dishes. The Russell Sage Studio is responsible for the restoration and design of the dining room and has been careful to preserve the room's original table plan which features the regular tables of celebrated figures such as Sir Winston Churchill, Oscar Wilde, Charlie Chaplin, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe. Art Deco inspired chandeliers, lustrous wood panelling, antique mirrors, luxurious mohair velvet coverings and gold leaf-lined faux turtle shell-clad walls will bring a new level of elegance to the room while restoring it to its former glory. The Luxury Travel Bible says ... "Welcome back". www.fairmont.com/savoy  www.gordonramsay.com/thesavoygrill/

Chocolate at 57 stories high

The Club at Marina Bay Sands a brand-new executive-floor lounge located at Sands SkyPark has now officially opened to club and suite guests. Located on the top of Hotel Tower 2, at a height of 200 meters, this 218-seat lounge will offer guests views of the city skyline from dawn to dusk. Guests will have use of all-day non-alcoholic beverages, free wireless internet and use of iPads and laptops.

Between the hours of 7am to 7pm guests can enjoy their complimentary breakfast, Afternoon Tea, evening cocktails, champagne and canapés. From 8pm The Club will turn into Singapore's first Chocolate Bar. This chocolate buffet, some 57 stories high, offers 57 chocolate-themed dishes crafted by hand with Valrhona chocolate and created by executive pastry chef Alejandro Luna and his team. The Chocolate Bar will also be available to the general public. http://www.marinabaysands.com/

Wolfgang Puck to open first European restaurant

Wolfgang Puck is to open his first European restaurant in the Dorchester Collection's new hotel, 45 Park Lane, London. Scheduled to open in spring 2011, Puck will bring his popular and award winning brand to the London dining scene. 'CUT at 45 Park Lane' will be serving the steaks, seafood and a carefully crafted wine list that has brought Puck acclaim in the United States. The chef says, "With its sharp design and incomparable service, Dorchester Collection's 45 Park Lane will be the perfect address for CUT in London". The Luxury Travel Bible can't wait to try out Wolfgang Puck's innovative cusine in a new European setting.

http://www.dorchestercollection.com/ http://www.wolfgangpuck.com/ http://www.45parklane.com/

A very Happy Thanksgiving to all our American followers! The Luxury Travel Bible is very thankful for all the support we have received since our April launch.

We love a design theme! Coworth Park does copper: baths; foliage in the dining room; and look what's hanging in the Barn restaurant.

How about a competition for best hotel door tags? This one for the Stables accommodation at Coworth Park is a definite contender!

W Hotels debuts in Southeast Asia

W Hotels debuts its first hotel in Southeast Asia with the newly opened W Retreat Koh Samui. An all-villa beachfront resort is located at the peak of the north short of Thailand's Samui Island. With the vibrancy and design The Luxury Travel Bible expects when checking into a W Hotel this new hotel also offers panoramic sunrise and sunset view of the Gulf of Thailand and each of the 75 villas include private pools, Yamaha sound system, plasma screen, the signature W bed and W Hotel's Whatever/Whenever® service. The opening of W Koh Samui also marks another milestone as W Hotels continues to grow and are now on track to double its portfolio to more than 50 hotels by 2012. www.whotels.com/kohsamui

Jamaica's new airport

Jamaica will open its third international airport next month. Formally known as the Boscobel Airstrip the new Ian Flemming International Airport has been developed to accomadate the arrival of private international air crafts. Located five miles from Ocho Rios the airport features a passenger lounge, customs and international clearnacne, pilot briefing room and specialized services for private aircrafts. The Ian Flemming International Airport, according to the country's Director of Tourism will provide private aircraft travellers easy and efficient service close to popular destinations on the eastern part of the island. http://www.visitjamaica.com/

Shangri-La heads to Europe

Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts new Paris hotel , in the French capital's 16th arrondissement, will open on the 17 December 2010.  This marks the group's first hotel in Europe . Built in 1896 as the private home of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte's grand-nephew, Prince Roland Bonaparte, Shangri-La Hotel, Paris manages to achieve a balance between the group's signature style of hospitality and the French art de vivre. This new hotel offers 81 rooms including 27 suites, and internationally acclaimed interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon has crafted each room individually to retain the residential ambience while providing all modern day comforts.   A unique feature for Paris, the hotel offers 40 per cent of rooms and 60 per cent of suites unobstructed views of the Eiffel Tower and the River Seine. http://www.shangri‐la.com/

Mini Cooper, Major Style

The Peninsula New York and The Peninsula Chicago have unveiled two customised Mini Cooper S Clubman vehicles for suite guests looking for complimentary transport for shopping sprees or sightseeing. Guests at the two hotels have access to the chauffeur driven cars for up to three hours a day. Tours at the Peninsula New York are available on the guest's choice of iPhone or iPad, which is available for the duration of their stay. Peninsula Chicago guests have use of an iPhone which provides directions and information for various excursions. Mini engineers have taken into consideration the hotel group and their guests' requirments to customise the cars. The Luxury Travel Bible are fans of the custom-illuminated Peninsula logo on door entry sills, the leather finishing, the signature Peninsula Green colour (to match the other vehicles in the hotel's fleet) and mini fridge with complimentary refreshments (well, all that sightseeing can be quite exhausting).  www.peninsula.com 

Coworth Park

Coworth Park is the perfect place on on a dark, cold November day. Am looking out on autumn trees in the park from the tranquil Spa. The Personalised Aromatherapy Massage at The Spa...Bliss! Coworth Park is Dorchester Collection's country cousin, with a twist: brown & orange tweed, even the horses have orange leg bandages: so smart in the park! JS

Photos and reports from The Luxury Travel Bible's stay at Coworth Park - Coming Soon

An Officer, a Gentleman and an Innkeeper

It seems like November is the month of Celebrity Ambassadors. Richard Gere, star of Pretty Woman, has been named the 2011 Ambassador of Relais & Châteaux. Gere was chosen as ambassador, due to being a " quintessential innkeeper whose personal journey to revive and maintain a historic property is an exceptional example of the passion that binds Relais & Châteaux together".

Gere is innkeeper of the Bedford Post, an eight-bedroom propety located about an hour north of New York City, with his wife Carey Lowell and their business partner Russell Hernandez. Gere himself notes that throughout his long career and the many challenging roles he has played none have been as hard as that of "Innkeeper". Bedford Post was taken on by Gere as an act of preservation in order to provide a gathering place for his local community. It was transformed into a club house with fine food and wine and a serene art de vivre. Bedford Post is also a new addition to the Relais & Châteaux family. http://www.relaischateaux.com/ , http://www.bedfordpostinn.com/

Gwinganna's a winner

At the recent AsiaSpa Awards in Hong Kong, Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat was voted by 20 international judges as the Spa Retreat of the Year 2010. The only Australian among the list of winners, the award follows last month's Crystal Award for Favourite Spa in Australia by the US-based Spa Finder Reader's Choice Awards. Gwinganna has won that award three years running. http://www.gwinganna.com/

LAN shortens travel time from Australia

We love that we'll be able to enjoy a South American holiday sooner now that LAN has significantly cut its flight times to Lima from Australia. From January 2, new non-stop flights from Santiago, Chile (departing from 2pm every Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday), means arriving passengers from Australia will be able to connect to Peru's capital in two hours. Previously passengers had to wait up to eight hours. The new flights (aboard Boeing 737-300 aircraft) will also coincide with the launch of other new flights by LAN, from Lima to Iguassu, home of the spectacular Iguassu Falls, and from Lima to the Chilean territory of Easter Island.

To celebrate LAN is offering an introductory roundtrip fare of AUD $2,719 per person, including taxes and fuel surcharges, from Sydney to Lima. This fare is available for sale until November 28 November, 2010, for travel between January 1-31, 2011 http://www.lan.com/

Hollywood mega-star's makeover

If there are lifetime achievement awards for great hotels, this Tinseltown icon would be walking the red carpet. Except that she's currently taking a 22-month career-break for the kind of cosmetic surgery that would make Joan Rivers look like a newcomer to the surgeon's table.

The Hotel Bel-Air has a revered history as a much-loved retreat for Hollywood's privacy-seeking A-listers. Throughout the 30s, 40s and 50s Grace Kelly, Jackie Gleason, Cary Grant, Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe all walked the footbridge over Swan Lake to relax around the famous oval pool. And the discreet cabanas and 12 acres of lush gardens in the canyon hideaway offered plenty of opportunity for high-class shenanigans (Lauren Bacall allegedly flooded the hotel during an Academy Awards stayover).

But every Oscar statuette needs a buff-up, and even the most dearly-loved Mission architecture can look dated rather than historic. So the Bel-Air is getting a re-vamp on a Hollywood scale.

Spanish Colonial meets classic contemporary, with a swanky new reception and lobby lounge, a whole new spa building with three guest lofts, complete restyling of all the guest suites, and all the high-tech eco-cleverness we've come to expect from our best hotels. (The famous pool gets underwater acoustics; the swans get a recycling and filtering system in their pond.)

Other hotels turn somersaults to try to keep the door open while undergoing a re-fit. The Bel-Air's Dorchester management decided to shut up shop and do the job on a grand scale. The swans remain the only residents until the re-opening slated for next summer. JS

Luxury link: http://www.hotelbelair.com/

Arriving at Heathrow

This was sent to me by a member of my family who was suggesting that it is organized for her when she arrives for Christmas. Maybe I will have to work on that one but let's face it who wouldn't want this greeting after a long flight this holiday season? CA

Phuket pearl wins design honours

The Luxury Travel Bible favourite, Indigo Pearl's eye-catching and edgy industrial design has earned it top honours at the recent World Travel Awards in London. Regarded as the 'Oscars' of the travel and tourism industry, the independently owned Phuket resort was hailed as Asia's Leading Design Hotel in 2010. Etihad, the Yachts of Seabourn, and Six Senses Resorts & Spas were among other big winners.
 For the complete list see http://www.worldtravelawards.com/

We (still) love the A380

Amidst all the super-hype about the launch of the A380 - and its subsequent grounding by Qantas last week - it's easy to forget what makes these aircraft super-special for long-haul flyers.

Over a glamorous dinner recently, The Luxury Travel Bible's ears were bent by one of our insiders, an experienced business traveller, who was raving about his experience flying with Emirates to Auckland. And apparently he wasn't the only one to lose his sang-froid: the jaws were dropping and camera-phones clicking amongst all the briefcase-class who boarded straight into the upper deck at Dubai.

"I was expecting something bigger and better," says our flight-buddy, "but I assumed a modest progression from other aircraft. I was absolutely astounded. Our personal pods, some quite alone, some in pairs, had masses of storage space for books and a change of clothes. And the seat went completely flat, to make a wonderfully comfortable bed. I had the best night's sleep I've ever had on an aircraft. After 13 hours in the air, I was still wondering at it all."

His only regret was that the two legs of his flight back to London weren't booked on the super-jumbos: "a bitter disappointment." His verdict: the level of comfort on the plane more than made up for the longer flight on the Emirates route. "In future I would structure my itinerary entirely on the basis of flying every possible leg with the A380." JS

In a recent luxe poll of TLTB readers you told us that 55% of you have  booked an airline specifically to fly the A380. Have your say.

Dilmah Tea property joins Relais & Chateaux

Dilmah Tea's Ceylon Tea Trails has become the first Sri Lankan luxury property to join Relais & Chateaux. Selected for its unique character, gourmet cuisine and outstanding service, Ceylon Tea Trails is a four-hour scenic drive away from Colombo and is perched on verdant land 4000ft (1250m) above sea level adjacent to the Central Highlands World Heritage site and a lake. Originally built between 1890 and 1939, each of the retreat's four restored colonial plantation bungalows come with exquisite period furnishings and a manager, chef and butler offering round the clock service. Guest activities include croquet, tennis, spa treatments and of course, high tea. The resort is also a perfect base to climb the Adam's Peak holy mountain as well as visiting Kandy and Nuwara Eliva, which is famous for its 19th century English country architecture. http://www.teatrails.com/



Merry Kiss-mas

It may not even be December yet but the festive season in Covent Garden, London is gearing up to be one of the most romantic yet. On 11th November, the Kissing Christmas Tree will be unveiled. This giant interactive installation's 50,000 red and white lights will illuminateevery time a couple puckers up under the mistletoe. To get visitors in the mood for love, The Body Shop will be hosting 'pucker up' stations to get your pout as perfect as Angelina Jolie's.

As well as serving as a visual tribute to love and goodwill Merry Kissmas, brainchild of Paul Cocksedge Studio (together with partner Joana Pinho), aims to raise over £25,000 for youth charity The Prince's Trust, which aims to change the lives of disadvantaged young people in the UK. The Luxury Travel Bible can't wait to visit and try it out!

The Christmas Tree will be switched on from 11 November 2010 - 05 January 2011.

http://www.coventgardenlondonuk.com/

Up in the Air

Flying British Airways business and we like the middle-booth-for-two, or for one to spread out, who needs a window seat at 30,0000ft? HD

Scott Thomas named Ambassador

The Luxury Travel Bible  favourite and star of The English Patient, Kristin Scott Thomas, has been officially appointed as the Ambassador for Accor's luxury boutique hotel label, MGallery. Her first role as Ambassador was to launch a new guide for MGallery. More than a directory, the guide, which is available to guests at all MGallery hotels, uncovers the story behind each of the hotels in the collection. http://www.mgallery.com/

Click here to read Kristen Scott Thomas' OPEN PASSPORT



TLTB visits The Luxury Travel Fair.

The Luxury Travel Bible had a great day at The Luxury Travel Fair, Olympia, London. There are so many great places to see, visit, experience and do in the world! We also took a well earned rest at The Island Bar for a glass of Pommery Champagne. http://www.luxurytravelfair.com/

Happy birthday Etihad

Many happy returns of the day to Etihad Airways, which celebrates its seventh anniversary today. In that time the airline tells us it has flown over 26 million passengers on more than 180,000 flights to destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Australia, Europe, North America, and Asia. Over the same period the airline's fleet has grown to 57 aircraft. Etihad is one of The Luxury Travel Bible favourites (see our review coming shortly) we think they do business and first class way better than most. The world seems to agree, the airline won a range awards including 'World's Best First Class Airline Seat' and 'World's Best First Class Onboard Catering' in the annual Skytrax survey, as judged by over 18 million air travellers worldwide.

http://www.etihadairways.com/

Phuket resort re-christened

The Chedi Phuket has had a name change, it is now known as The Surin. The newly-dubbed hotel is set on the beach overlooking the clear waters of Pansea Bay, with palm-thatched cottages tucked into tropical gardens and coconut groves. We'll keep you posted on any changes that go along with the new name.

www.thesurinphuket.com/

Miami, menus and Michelin stars

The Luxury Travel Bible is looking forward to eating at The Setai South Beach now that David Werly is the new Executive Chef. Werly has a great culinary track record and comes directly from the Michelin Star, Five Diamond Award AAA Le Cirque at Bellagio in Las Vegas. He trained under Alaine Ducasse and worked at Two-star Michelin Hotel Ritz in Parisand the Two-star Michelin restaurant Le Précatelan Lenotre in Paris. He also held the Executive Chef title at Auberge d'Artzenheim Restaurant in Alsace. We can't wait to see his Miami menu. http://www.lhw.com/, http://www.setai.com/

Male adrenalin junkies only

The rules of the privately-run St Moritz Toboggan Club, state quite clearly that only men can hurl themselves the Cresta Run. Since The Luxury Travel Bible is an equal opportunity organisation we're not sure how we feel about that one, although frankly what sane woman would want to? Male adrenalin junkies over the age of 18 years of age can ride down the world famous ice run on non-race days. One of the easiest, and most luxurious ways, to get access to the run is to book a Cresta Run Package from the Kulm Hotel St Moritz, which includes 3 nights' B&B accommodation and five rides on the Cresta Run, as well as tuition, equipment and a 25-minute massage, which should come in handy to soothe bumps and bruises if you fall off. We're not sure who will sooth the ego. Since women are not actually banned from the hotel they can book in on the same package as a partner with the Cresta Run element substituted for a CHF400 credit in the hotel's Panorama Spa. Now you're talking.

http://www.kulmhotel-stmoritz.ch/

Celebrity Travel: Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp is a man in demand, he has just be named "Most powerful Celebrity' by Entertainment Weekly and is currently filming Pirates of the Caribbean 4 - On Stranger Tides which is being shot on location in Puerto Rico, Hawaii and St Ives in Cornwall,UK .

He may feel at home in the Caribbean, or at least the movie version of it, or in Wonderland as the Mad Hatter from Tim Burton's adaptation of Lewis Carroll's literary classic Alice in Wonderland. However, it's France where Johnny lays his hat in real life. Read Johnny's Open Passport at The Luxury Travel Bible.