Are you looking for an excuse to take your yoga practice to a white sand beach this fall? Check out this 4-day luxury yoga retreat at The Somerset on Grace Bay in the Turks & Caicos Islands from October 11-14, 2014.
From October 11 to 14, 2014, The Somerset on Grace Bay is offering a 4-day luxury yoga retreat for only $250 (valued at $650) for guests staying at the resort.
Why go
The convenience of this yoga retreat add-on is that it can be enjoyed by one or more guests in your travel party, but not all guests are required to participate. And when your done practicing your poses, you can go relax in the oceanfront infinity pool or new on-site spa, or stay active with complimentary pedal bicycles to cruise around Grace Bay, fitness center with steam room, snorkeling equipment, kayaks, Hobie Cat sailboats, croquet and more.
The Deal
For $250 (valued at $650) guests staying at the resort can join yoga instructor, Christina Wypijewska, for a series of themed yoga sessions with a holistic approach to health and wellness. Set along the world-famous Grace Bay beach, the yoga retreat add-on includes:
- 4 days of yoga and meditation including a paddleboard yoga session (complimentary; $400 value)
- Retreat-exclusive spa treatment (30 minutes)
- Healthy Cooking Seminar with Chef Justin Currie of Pavilion
- Daily Continental breakfast
- Daily lunch featuring special yoga retreat nutritious menu selections
- Tuesday night beach BBQ
Ideal for all skill levels, each day the retreat will focus on a different yoga philosophy and include sunrise meditation on the beach, an energizing morning flow yoga practice and a more gentle sunset yoga practice. In addition, there will be special sessions for paddleboard yoga, exploring energy-body awareness and ayurvedic healing practice.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
DID YOU KNOW that May 23rd is World Turtle Day, a global observance to help celebrate and protect turtles and tortoises and their disappearing habitats?
On the island of Dominica, the annual sea turtle season is under way in an ancient ritual that dates back to the time of dinosaur and hundreds of endangered sea turtles travel thousands of miles to lay eggs on the protected beach at Rosalie Bay.
During this special time, guests at eco-boutique Rosalie Bay Resort can participate in conservation efforts and save 33% on 4 or more night stays.
Among the conservation activities offered, you can:
Join resort turtle expert for a guided educational walk along the beach.
Help patrol the beach to protect nesting turtles.
Assist researchers in collecting data or watching as they relocate nests that are too close to the ocean to the turtle hatchery.
Or, be “on call” for when baby sea turtles hatch and begin their journey.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
I’m not a fan of consumer holidays. I am a fan of affordable travel, however. So, if a Colorado ski break, an Italian hiking holiday, or an all-inclusive Mexico beach escape is on your travel wish list, here are four Cyber Monday travel deals to help you save big.
COLORADO SKI BREAK
The deal: Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa, located in the heart of Beaver Creek at the base of one of Colorado’s most celebrated mountain resorts, is offering Cyber Monday savvy-shoppers a free night stay and a free day of skiing! Those who book the Ski Free, Stay Free offer can enjoy an extra night as well as an extra day on the slopes. In addition, those who book on December 2 will receive a slope side view upgrade based on availability. This deal represents a 20% savings on accommodations and savings of $200 for skiing.
How to save: To make reservations for this four-night stay, visit http://beavercreek.hyatt.com/en/hotel/offers/offer-detail.html?offerId=52910544 and use promo code CYBER. Offer is valid for stays between December 3-20 and throughout select dates in 2014. Please check the terms and conditions for availability.
To make reservations for this four-night stay, please visit http://beavercreek.hyatt.com/en/hotel/offers/offer-detail.html?offerId=52910544 and use promo code CYBER. Offer is valid for stays between December 3-20 and throughout select dates in 2014. Please check the terms and conditions for availability.
ITALIAN HIKING HOLIDAY
The deal: REI Adventures, a leading adventure tour company, is offering a Cyber Monday deal on its classic Cinque Terre Hiking trip in Italy. Guests who book this trip on December 2, 2013 will receive $700 off any 2014 departure of the trip, a 20% discount. The trip is a stunning tour by foot through the five picturesque fishing villages dotting the Mediterranean Coast of Italy. Guests will hike along dramatic views of the coastline, through chestnut and pine forests and past a 16th century naval fortress – all the while enjoying the region’s renowned wines, gastronomy and relaxed seaside culture.
How to save: Trips can be booked at www.rei.com/adventures (FYI the last time REI Adventures offered a discount was for their 25th anniversary, which was in April 2012.)
MEXICO ALL-INCLUSIVE BEACH ESCAPE
Barceló Hotels & Resorts
The deal: Barceló Hotels & Resorts specializes in all-inclusive resort experiences found in the world’s most desirable locales. The brand’s two multi-resort mega complexes, Barceló Bávaro and Barceló Maya, are characteristic of Barceló’s high quality service and endless entertainment options. Catering to online travel consumers, the brand is offering a 40% discount on stays with a three-night minimum.
How to save: Reservations must be made on Monday, December 2 though the savings is valid for travel throughout 2014, blackout dates may apply. To book, visit http://www.barcelo.com/BarceloHotels/en_GB/offers/cybermonday-deals.aspx.
Sandos Hotels & Resorts
The deal: Sandos Hotels & Resorts is offering up to 50% off at one of Sandos’ four all-inclusive Mexico resorts. The brand’s Mexico collection includes: Sandos Caracol Eco Experience Resort and Sandos Playacar Beach Experience Resort, both in Riviera Maya; and Sandos Cancun Luxury Experience Resort in Cancun. Sandos Finisterra Los Cabos is the fourth and newest Mexico property in the collection, which opened May 2013. Only available for booking on Cyber Monday, December 2, 2013. Valid for travel in 2014; blackout dates may apply.
How to save: To book, visit www.sandos.com, select the Sandos Mexico hotel of choice and then click on the special offers tab at the top of the hotel landing page.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Looking to relax and unwind with a Caribbean escape this Spring that won’t break the bank? Take advantage of value-packed specials at Bay Gardens Resorts this Spring for Easter, Mother’s Day and Saint Lucia Jazz at two of its three Saint Lucia properties - The Bay Gardens Hotel and Bay Gardens Inn.
Nestled in the heart of Saint Lucia’s entertainment capital, Rodney Bay Village, both properties offer superior accommodations, traditional Caribbean cuisine, and the finest in service and hospitality. Within walking distance of the world famous Reduit Beach, dozens of restaurants, entertainment, shopping, and the recently opened Treasure Bay Casino, Bay Gardens is perfectly situated to offer the best of what Saint Lucia has to offer.
Celebrate Easter, Mother’s Day and Saint Lucia Jazz on a Budget at Bay Gardens Hotel and Inn.
Easter Savings
Easter is a great time for a family escape. Bay Gardens Hotel and Bay Gardens Inn doubles the fun for parents and children with their Easter Savings package where children under 16 stay for free. Mom and dad can receive a Couples Massage at La Mer Spa or a romantic three-course dinner at the Trios Caribbean Fusion Restaurant, both located at Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa, including complimentary babysitting service. Children can take part in a day of fun with an Easter egg hunt, special Easter Sunday Brunch at the Beach Resort, and a visit from the Easter Bunny himself. Rates for a five night package start at US$689 for a family of four in a Superior room including daily Caribbean buffet breakfast – a savings of 60 percent.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Here’s a budget-friendly last-minute travel deal perfect for anyone looking to get away, get in shape, and get a great deal.
As part of the launch of a new line of luxury, all-inclusive wellness retreats offered by Purescapes at Nisbet Plantation Beach Club, guests can save 25 percent on the first week-long retreat held November 5 – 12, 2011.
The week-long retreats are tailored to each individual and combine cardio and strength training, yoga, organic cuisine and cultural exploration on the island of Nevis.
Read on for details…
Far away from everyday stresses on a tranquil white sand beach on the unspoiled island of Nevis, the acclaimed Caribbean resort is an ideal setting for the first Purescapes Caribbean wellness retreat. Amid this paradise, guests can reconnect with nature and revitalize their well-being.
Ideal for beginners and athletes, the Purescapes Wellness Retreat at Nisbet Plantation is designed to introduce positive life changes by teaching guests how to eat properly, move effectively and improve their overall health. A well-balanced agenda includes:
· Morning yoga on the resort’s white sand beach
· Outdoor fitness classes with cardio workouts and strength training
· Island excursions such as kayaking, mountain biking and hiking to explore the beauty of Nevis
· One-on-one coaching from fitness and nutrition experts
· Time to relax with a massage or afternoon swim in the oceanfront pool
· Local natural and organic cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Book by September 30 to Save Up to 55 Percent Off Breezes Resorts & Spas in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Curacao
The summer months may be coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean the sun and fun have to fade too. At Breezes Resorts & Spas, guests can look forward to bright days ahead with savings of up to 55 percent on travel through December 23 at properties in Jamaica, the Bahamas, and Curacao when booked by September 30.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Head to one of Mexico’s most exclusive beach spa resorts and enjoy the last remaining days of summer with special savings from Ceiba del Mar, an award-winning property in Mexico’s exotic Riviera Maya.
Now through the end of September, spend one night at the boutique Ceiba del Mar and get the second night free. Accommodations include 88 plush and intimate ocean-view rooms and suites, including junior and master suites with private terraces and a penthouse with a plunge pool. Each guest residence at Ceiba del Mar is beautifully decorated with Mexican painted tiles and hardwood furnishings from Guadalajara. Room and suite amenities include:
• A balcony or terrace and hammock.
• Large sitting areas.
• Walk-in showers and separate bathtubs.
• Organic bath products.
• Complimentary wireless Internet.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
With vacation season on the horizon, travelers hunting for a bargain will find wallet-friendly options in Belize as hotels are slashing prices and boosting inclusive packages for the summer months.
Home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, ancient Maya temples, exotic wildlife and more, Belize provides an unforgettable vacation. And with a fixed exchange rate of BZ$2 to US$1, travelers will naturally save even more on their summer trips.
Below is a list of specific offers that begin in the summer and run through Belize’s low season (October 31) and are tailored to fit a range of travelers - from couples seeking romantic escapes to families in search of safe summer destinations. Travelers can also find a full roster of hot summer deals on Belize’s official travel website, TravelBelize.org.
SUMMER ROMANCE FOR A BARGAIN
Featuring remote islands, mesmerizing waterfalls and affordable luxuries, Belize is the ideal getaway for couples in search of rousing romantic destinations. From seaside star-gazing on the white beaches of Placencia to breathtaking sunsets on the Maya temples of Caracol in the Cayo District, Belize’s awe-inspiring attractions are sure to sizzle any couple’s summer. While the country’s romance website, Belize In Love, features romantic packages offered year-round, below are two summer deals perfect for stirring up a little romance.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
The Romance Experience package includes:
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Jamaica is rolling out the red carpet to welcome visitors for the 2010/2011 winter travel season, which officially kicks off December 15, 2010. Many of Jamaica’s hotels, resorts and attractions have created special packages for travelers who seek a warm weather escape from the plummeting temperatures up north.
From family fun and romantic retreats to winter bliss at the Ritz, here are a few choice deals:
Family Fun
Half Moon’s Family Escape package is valid from January 5 through April 15, 2011. The package includes daily nanny service for two children under four years old and complimentary breakfast. The property’s Very Important Little Persons Service (VILPS) will treat kids with a special gift upon arrival, access to Half Moon’s Anancy Children’s Village and Sleepy Treat. Rates begin at $690 for double occupancy for a Junior Suite. Booking deadline is April 11, 2011. www.halfmoon.com
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
HABITAT CURAÇAO RESORT
FREE NIGHTS AND FREE TANK DIVES
Take advantage of the Curaçao Now program and great specials at Habitat Curaçao Resort including two nights free on a seven night package, now through December 15, 2009. Divers can also take advantage of a free two-tank boat dive. Pricing starts at $455 per person.
For information on dive and non-dive pricing or reservations, please call toll-free: 1-800-327-6709 or visit www.HabitatCuracaoResort.com.
Source: Curaçao Tourism
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Good news procrastinators! Sunset Resorts, the trio of all-inclusive resorts in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Negril, Jamaica, is extending their Last Minute Fall Deals offering travelers a savings of up to 60% off regular rates for travel this fall plus offering automatic upgrades at Sunset Beach Resort & Spa and Sunset Jamaica Grande and special mid-week rates at Sunset at the Palms. Read on for deal details:
Sunset Beach Resort & Spa, Montego Bay
Offer: Save more than 50% off regular rates and receive an automatic upgrade. “Caribbean Fall” rates starting at $144 per room, per night based on double occupancy for a standard room category ($72 per person)
Booking Window: Now through October 31, 2009
Travel Dates: Now through December 22, 2009 www.sunsetbeachresort.com
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
How cool is this!…
NISBET PLANTATION OFFERS COMPLIMENTARY FLIP VIDEOS FOR GUESTS
If a picture is worth a thousand words, a video is worth a lot more – especially when it comes to memorable vacations. Now guests at Nisbet Plantation Beach Club, recognized as one of the best Caribbean hotels, can capture their time at the resort and on the unspoiled island of Nevis using the resort’s complimentary Flip Mino video camcorders.
With a sleek design and capacity for up to 60 minutes of video, the Flip Mino camcorders are easy to bring along on a guided island tour or a ride around Nevis on one of the resort’s scooters. To make it even easier to share vacation memories, the videos can be easily transferred via a USB port to a guest’s laptop or Nisbet Plantation staff can burn the movies to a keepsake disc.
One of the first guests to use the Flip Mino camcorders was wedding photographer Greg Keysar and his wife Krista. Check out why Greg says “Nisbet is a must stay” by viewing his video on their stay at Nisbet Plantation on Vimeo and see all the fun from their hike through the jungle with tour guide Jim Johnson on YouTube.
For more information and booking, visit www.NisbetPlantation.com, call toll-free at 1-800-742-6008 or speak to your travel agent.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
HILTON HOTELS & RESORTS IN THE CARIBBEAN & LATIN AMERICA HEAT UP THIS SUMMER WITH HOT DEALS
This summer, travelers save big at Hilton hotels and resorts in the Caribbean and Latin America with Hilton Advance Purchase rates offering savings of up to 30 percent.
With Hilton Advance Purchase, guests who plan ahead and reserve three weeks before their stay are rewarded with a deeply discounted rate. Now through August 31, 2009, Hilton hotels in the Caribbean and Latin America feature the starting double occupancy rates* below: 
Caribbean:
- Hilton Santo Domingo - from $129
- Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort - from $144
- Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre - from $169
- Hilton Kingston Jamaica - from $119
- British Colonial Hilton Nassau - from $164
- Hilton Curaçao - from $161
- Caribe Hilton, San Juan - from $174
- Hilton Barbados - from $219
Latin America:
- Hilton Papagayo Costa Rica Resort & Spa - from $129
- Hilton Cartagena - from $135
- Hilton Buenos Aires - from $169
- Hilton São Paulo Morumbi - from $202
For reservations, guests should visit www.hilton.com or call 1-800-HILTONS and request booking code SO.
*Rates are per room per night based on double occupancy and do not include taxes, service charges and/or resort fees. Subject to availability and seasonal variations. Lowest rate is available with a 21 day advanced purchase. Certain length of stay requirements, day of week restrictions and blackout dates may apply and vary. Advance purchase rates are nonrefundable and full payment in advance is required. Other restrictions apply.
Source: YPartnership
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Beachfront Resorts Reward Guests with $75- $250 Credit
Whether seeking an island escape or an eco-adventure, travelers can save on their next getaway with resort credits between $75 and $250 at Hilton Barbados and Hilton Papagayo Costa Rica Resort & Spa. Now through Dec. 31, 2009, the beachfront Hilton Barbados and Hilton Papagayo Costa Rica Resort & Spa are offering special resort credits* for guests staying at least two nights.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
CASA COLONIAL BEACH & SPA GIVES GUESTS CASH BACK THROUGHOUT 2009
—Luxury five-star resort on the north coast of the Dominican Republic offers travelers 20 percent off room rate and complimentary daily breakfast on stays Sunday through Thursday April through December 23, 2009 -
The 50-room luxury boutique hotel, Casa Colonial Beach & Spa, situated on the Dominican Republic’s north coast, has announced another value-added offer for savvy travelers. Guests who book a stay from Sunday through Thursday in 2009 at the lavish Casa Colonial Beach & Spa will receive 20 percent off their room rate and complimentary daily breakfast.
The discount of 20 percent will be taken off stays Sunday through Thursday on rack rates ranging from $350 - $1,300 in high season (January 4 – April 18, 2009) and $286 - $968 in low season (April 19 through December 23, 2009). The offer cannot be combined with packages or existing offers, is based upon space availability and a two-night minimum stay is required.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
For those of you debating whether to hop on that plane or not, travel and luxury lifestyle expert, AMPR’s President & CEO Andria Mitsakos, has rounded up a few of this season’s best vacations for cultural experiences on realistic budgets. Whether it’s in the Caribbean, Mexico or Europe, each is a chance to make your life rich with the worldly experiences of travel.
AMPR’S SEASONAL TRAVEL DEALS
1. JAMAICA’S FREE NIGHTS
The Offer: Island Outpost beats to new rhythms in Jamaica with a 5th-night free offer and rates as low as $95 per night.
Where: Jakes (Treasure Beach), The Caves (Negril), Geejam (Port Antonio) and Strawberry Hill (Blue Mountains).
Details: Travel dates range throughout November and December, and each hotel includes a distinct experience of pampering extras. Among them: complimentary massages; welcome bottle of wine; complimentary roundtrip flights from Kingston to Portland for stay of 7 nights or more (Geejam only); meals, drinks and more! All this in addition to the distinct, hip ambiance Island Outpost’s hotels convey, uniting guests with the local atmosphere.
Get it: Visit www.islandoutpost.com or call 1-800-OUTPOST.
2. ALL-INCLUSIVE IN PUERTO VALLARTA
The Offer: Nab 25% savings with the Buenaventura Fall All-Inclusive package, where rates are just $100 per person, per night (based on double occupancy).
Where: The newly renovated Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Spa, located just steps from lively downtown Puerto Vallarta.
Details: Valid through December 15th, 2008, package includes four days/three nights’ accommodations in a Deluxe Room, one Gold Star Wrap spa treatment per person, in addition to daily breakfast, lunch and dinner with unlimited cocktails, beer and wine. Enjoy the daily-replenished mini-bar! Hotel taxes are also covered.
Get it: Call 1-888-859-9439 or email ventas@hotelesbuenaventura.com.mx.
3. THE MARLEYS’ ROYAL WELCOME
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Newly-Renovated, Expanded St. Lucia Resort Offers Guests $199/night rate now through December 15, 2008
Villa Beach Cottages, one of St. Lucia’s best-kept-secret resorts, is pleased to announce special low rates for bookings now through December 15, 2008.
Nestled among the coconut trees of Choc Bay, just a few short yards from the Caribbean Sea, Villa Beach Cottages has recently undergone extensive renovations and improvements and provides guests with comfortable, casual luxury in an idyllic location. Offering panoramic views of the ocean, the lush green mountains of the northern coastline and an offshore island, this unique property is situated in a paradise-like setting, and is known for its warm, friendly service and picturesque, peaceful location.
Guests will receive the special rate of just $199/night for accommodations in a brand new, deluxe one-bedroom villa suite. The beautiful and luxurious self-contained villa suites feature intricately-carved four-poster beds, living and dining rooms with indigenous designer furniture, fully-equipped kitchens with marble countertops, including full-sized appliances, and large balconies with teak furniture and steamers overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The deluxe one-bedroom suites include bathrooms with his and hers pedestal sinks and in-room Jacuzzi tubs with an ocean view. All of the villas feature state-of the-art room amenities such as LCD flat-screen TVs, DVD and CD players, and high-speed Internet access.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
FOUR NEW YEAR-LONG PACKAGES FOR 2009 UNVEILED BY ROSEWOOD LITTLE DIX BAY
Luxury, Spa, Romance, and Getaway Packages Offer Savings of up to 15%
Rosewood Little Dix Bay on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands is offering four luxury packages at special prices available January 3 - December 17, 2009. The four packages - The Best of LDB, 5-Night Spa Sojourn, 7-Night Romance Escape, and Simply Little Dix - are the perfect way to experience the resort’s private half-mile crescent beach; superb water sports; Sense, A Rosewood Spa; multiple dining choices; and a program of excursions including the highly popular boat drop-offs at selected Virgin Gorda beaches. All packages are priced based on double occupancy and include full daily breakfast, airport transfers, government taxes and 10% resort fees. Packages are based on availability; blackout dates apply.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Travelers wanting to trade grey skies and blustery weather for the sapphire waters and waving palms of the Caribbean don’t expect a price break during the winter season. However this winter Discovery at Marigot Bay on the beautiful island of St. Lucia is offering its Simply Romantic Winter Break with savings of 20% on rooms and 25% savings on a whole host of romantic vacation amenities.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".