When does a trip to the rainforest become a luxurious escape? At the new (opening November 2012) 12-guest Kurà Design Villas set in the Osa Peninsula rainforest of Costa Rica, it’s the moment you arrive to one of the hillside villas, sink into the cozy sling of a patio hammock—Mojito in hand, of course—and watch the sun set over the Pacific from a private terrace.
As the newest retreat in the Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality collection, a company that manages Earth-friendly lodges, hotels and small inns in Central America, interiors are all stylish eco-elegance, full of natural materials such as teak, bamboo and glass.
Kurà features six private guest villas, including luxurious amenities such as a king-sized bed with quality linens, plush towels and bathrobes, double rainfall-style shower, private minibar and wine cellar, espresso coffeemaker, iPod docking station, and free wireless internet, in addition to a full-service spa.
And with a 19-metre (62-foot) saltwater infinity pool; outdoor lounge, bar and spa areas; and 360-degree view Sky Lounge for watching a star-glittered nightsky, even lodge lizards can enjoy the great outdoors while waiting for their massage.
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".
a guest blog by Marti Mayne
Thoughout May, Distinctive Inns of New England, a collection of luxury New England Bed & Breakfasts and Country Inns, is offering the perfect reason to celebrate love with Date Your Mate Packages.
From cocktails to roses, bubbly and massages, and breakfast in bed, Innkeepers across New England are ready to help you celebrate romance and rekindle the excitement of your dating years.
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".
a guest article by B&B expert, Marti Mayne
The Distinctive Inns of New England have spent some time researching what women and men really want for Valentine’s Day. And the answers may surprise you.
While women do love their flowers, romantic escapes and chocolates, it’s the sentiment that comes with the gift that really counts. And while some men may answer the question about what they want most for Valentine’s Day with a three letter word, the majority are more interested in their loved ones’ happiness.
Surprised?
Read the two part series in the Distinctive Inns of New England’s blog .
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".
Finding a Valentine’s getaway just got easier. Travelers can now explore a selection of romance packages and specials available at North America inns by visiting Select Registry’s new website, http://www.selectregistry.com/valentines. Browse by inn location, package type, or amenities - such as a spa or culinary experience.
Select Registry B&Bs offer luxurious drive-to escapes in scenic locales across the United States and Canada. Rendezvous without the costs or romance-busters of air travel, rental cars and hasty breakfasts. Romantic ambiance, one-of-a-kind amenities and delicious breakfasts are all part of the package.
For couples seeking a one-of-a-kind retreat this Valentine’s Day and beyond, here are a few of the romance packages available:
Honor Mansion - Healdsburg, California
Escape to a romantic three-night retreat in the heart of California’s renowned Sonoma Wine Country. Honor Mansion’s Valentine’s Day Package pampers with candle-lit rose petal turndown upon arrival (or at another time upon request); handcrafted chocolates; local sparkling wine with keepsake flutes; and a romantic movie to enjoy in-room with popcorn and as a take-home gift. Guests choose from thirteen spacious guestrooms, private cottages and luxurious suites, all spread over four landscaped acres. Amenities include romantic sleigh and canopy beds, hand-carved fireplaces, flat-screen TVs, iPod radios, and private terraces with outdoor spa tub for two. This package is offered complimentary with any three-night stay, starting any time, Feb. 10 – 15, 2011.
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".
TWO COLORFUL ESCAPES FOR A VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT: BIG SKY MONTANA AND THE COSTA RICA RAINFOREST
Book A Blue or Green Holiday Now and Celebrate throughout the Year
Enjoy the gift of a travel escape to either Montana or Costa Rica for a truly romantic experience full of elegance, relaxation, and adventure. Triple Creek Ranch (Darby, Montana) and Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort (Arenal, Costa Rica) are both offering packages that will let couples indulge to the fullest.
Triple Creek Ranch, Montana – Mountain Romance Package
The Relais & Chateaux adults-only hideaway in Montana’s Bitterroot Mountains becomes even more romantic as a Valentine’s Day present. After a wonderful day of outdoor activities under the beautiful “blue” sky including horseback riding, cross-country skiing and hiking (or snowshoeing), indulge in Executive Pastry Chef Christopher Whitten’s chocolate selections or wine expert Jeremy White’s pairing suggestions with dinner.
The four-night “Mountain Romance” 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".
Away.com Launches Romance Guides, Names Top 10 Romantic Destinations for 2010
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, the travel-planning site Away.com launched “Away.com Romance Travel Guides,” giving amorous travelers the inside scoop on the 45 most romantic destinations worldwide.
From the hottest spots to catch a beautiful sunset to the most romantic hotels and restaurants, Away.com’s experts uncover new ideas for getaways that set the mood for romance. Plus, an interactive map lets travelers quickly browse for trip suggestions, and more than 20 photo galleries provide ample inspiration.
If you’re planning a getaway for Valentine’s Day or another special occasion but are not quite sure where to go, Away.com has selected the top 10 romantic getaways for 2010.
Away.com’s Top 10 Romantic Destinations(1)
1 Bermuda
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2 Paris, France
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3 Kauai, Hawaii
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4 New Orleans, Louisiana
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5 Riviera Maya, Mexico
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6 Bali, Indonesia
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7 Venice, Italy
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8 Vancouver, Canada
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9 Fiji, Australia-Pacific
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10 Miami, Florida
View the complete Romance Guide, full destination descriptions, photos and more at http://away.com/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".