"ESCAPE FROM LUANDA"- a most compelling film

Every so often, a film comes along that captures not only the soul of a country but also the heartrending, wretched and often sobering detail of day to day life inside a nation in crisis. “Escape From Luanda” is one of those films, and absolutely deserves not only to be seen, but taken in completely through the mind and heart. In Luanda, one of the world's poorest and most dangerous places, three students from Angola's only music school work towards their end-of-year concert. The Music School is Angola’s first and only school of its kind. It houses some 80 students, most of them desperately poor. Many face disapproval and outright rejection from their families who can’t see a future in music. This film asks if, despite the ravages of 27 years of civil war, musical passion can overcome terrible hardships.

Critics worldwide cannot stop touting its impact and have hailed it as a deeply absorbing piece of insight into the everyday struggles Angola faces. The more people see and understand what’s going on, the more people there may be to help however they can. Awareness is key in so many of these dire situations. Award-winning documentary film-maker Phil Grabsky has taken hold of this story and presents it like a beautiful, emotional masterpiece in a no-holds-barred fashion.

If you’re on this list, chances are you travel in search of deeper meanings in each place you visit, you look beyond the sights and sounds for a deeper understanding of a nation’s soul…and this film opens each viewer’s eyes to a beautiful source of inspiration that has the potential to defy the odds. The DVD is now available from Seventh Art Productions www.seventh-art.com

COTTON TREE LODGE- Belize
Let’s face it, these conditions in the atmosphere lately are just enough to make even the most fearless traveler question their next venture, and this past week’s volcanic ash-induced massive matrix of European flight delays is no exception. It might be the perfect time to consider heading south, and when you’re ready, brilliant Belize will be waiting to welcome you with open arms along with the owners of Cotton Tree Lodge.

This is a magical place indeed, nestled between rainforest and river, and just miles from the beach so watersports fiends need not fret. It’s all about connecting with nature, and the basics here in every sense...explorations of ancient ruins, Mayan villages, waterfalls, medicinal plant walks, paddling upstream in a dugout canoe, and the occasional spelunk are part of the everyday itinerary here. Or, you can just rather opt to laze around in a hammock all day if you please. The choice is really yours. Either way, you’re treated to your own private cabana with a traditional bay leaf thatched roof, kept cool by ceiling fans and open to the sounds of nature with full screens, and kept native with local handcarved wood and handwoven textiles.

Sustainability is what Cotton Tree Lodge is all about- from the freshest ingredients grown in their own organic garden and served to you in their restaurant, to full solar powered systems, reusable water bottles, reforestation initiatives and even a non profit initiative that assists local farmers in learning how to grow organic (which guests can even participate in as well). So, bypass the brouhaha and get down to basics in Belize.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 20% on Cotton Tree’s all inclusive rates for travel through 31 July and then 26 Oct – 18 Dec 2010. That’s transfers from Punta Gorda, all meals, daily tours, and onsite activities too. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

HOTEL L'ESPLANADE & LE PETIT HOTEL- St. Martin

Arrive a stranger, leave a treasured friend…that’s the promise of the gracious owners of these two stunning hidden jewels in fabulously French St. Martin. These intimate properties are everything you want an un-touristy boutique retreat to be- mysterious, charming, enchanting, chic , and simply romantic.

And naturally so- the vibe springs from the spirited owners who came to St. Martin for a 2 month stay and wound up never leaving, opting to remain in paradise. For over a decade they have been thoughtfully gracing the properties with their personal touches, all the while ensuring guests have as authentic of an experience as possible from personalized music selections, to the flowers adorning one’s room, down to even the continental breakfast served in bed if you wish at L’Esplanade, the hillside paradise bathed in gentle breezes and rooms offering splendid ocean views. While Le Petit Hotel’s oversized suites make you feel as though you’re in your own private St. Martin hideaway. A perfect base from which to head out and experience the vibrant celebration of European culture, cuisine, fabulous shopping and brilliant beaches that is St. Martin.

Each property features gorgeous touches like French bath amenities, Balinese furniture, stereos, terraces and most importantly retains the lovely footprint of the owners’ personal style and care all throughout. They make you feel so at home that you’ll never want to leave…after all, they know the feeling.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Stay for 7 nights, pay for 5. That’s two FREE nights at either property, valid for travel 01 May – 31 Oct 2010. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

EXPLORATEUR INSPIRED JOURNEYS SERIES- South Africa
We’re delighted to launch the first itinerary in our series of inspired journeys. These are interactive experiences that go beyond the norm, that delve into the true soul of a destination and allow you to taste, touch, see, feel and become part of the fabric of these intriguing locales around the world- with a group of like-minded jet-setters who share the same thirst and passion for travel. The South Africa experience takes place 03-10 December, 2010


Johannesburg is where your journey begins, for an eye-opening look at some of the most intriguing sides of this complex, eclectic city- with personally guided tours through Soweto’s most famous memorials on a journey of discovery through South Africa’s diverse history including museums, the world’s largest academic hospital and local outdoor markets as well. You’ll enjoy traditional lunches at local establishments for indigenous cuisine and opportunities to mix with the local community, and chic, stylish hotspots in Johannesburg’s most fashionable district.


Continue on to a brilliant safari experience at an upscale lodge in Pilanesberg National Park, where you’ll be treated to 55,000 hectares of open road to seek out the Big 5 and beyond. This scenic terrain, home to virtually all of the animal species in southern Africa, delivers amazing game while the lodge provides an authentic bush experience.


No trip to South Africa would be complete without a jaunt to Cape Town, the stunning southern coastal jewel where another luxury hotel experience awaits. Your stay here will be everything you’d never expect…. Eclectic Pan-African dining in a mystical setting of trees and tents, interactive drumming demos, an African cooking safari, city tour of the top sights, breadmaking demos, chocolate experiences, and wine tastings a-plenty in the magical Cape Winelands.

Click HERE for more information on this exceptional experience.

WORLD CUP 2010

Two words...EN FUEGO. The fever is building, we can hardly stand it...counting down day after day until the world's most incredible sporting spectacle begins in South Africa, and until we get on that plane to head over. This fiercely passionate, highly kinetic meetup of the world's biggest soccer fans is beautiful to watch, and the feeling on the ground is indescribable. We're going to be there, cheering on the teams that are closest to our hearts and yelling so voice-losing-loud that it's fortunate our stories are written and not broadcasted! We'll be blogging & Tweeting live so watch this space.

If you're considering heading over, but haven't yet made your plans, you're in luck. Fares have suddenly come down from various gateways and we have the inside track on hotel availability in the various areas where the games will be played throughout the circuit. Let us know if we can help. Click HERE for information.

And come join us, this is a fever you'll want to catch.

BARCELONA PALACE EXPERIENCE- by Suite 501
You may have stayed at a 5 star hotel in Barcelona, you may have dined at the finest establishments the region has to offer, but have you ever taken control of a sumptuous private 18th Century palace overlooking the Gothic Quarter? And you thought the age of conquering castles was so passé...

Magically enveloped in culture and opulence, this palace hypnotizes you into believing you are royalty (and you actually are as close as one can be to a king or queen for the time you’re in residence). We’re talking food prepared exactly to your palate and served privately, butlers to unpack your luggage, daily pampering and beauty rituals, private chauffeur, valet service, personal assistant, fresh flowers and international newspapers daily, local Spanish cell phone and exclusive Art Nouveau Catalan-period furnishings. Can you handle that? Yeah, we are pretty sure you can.

Our friends at Alberta La Grup make this happen for you, so you can leave your armor and sword at home. They make it possible for you to take up residence a magnificent, unique luxurious palace, where absolutely every intricate detail is prepared entirely and exclusively for you. They know what’s on, out, in, hot, hip and luxe, and seem to know your needs better than you do yourself.

Why treat yourself to this experience? Because saying “I’ll be retreating to the Palace tonight” just never gets old. http://www.albertalagrup.com/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary round-trip private airport transfers when booking a bespoke Palace experience. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

MALIBU BEACH INN- Malibu, California

Though this charming hideaway may be set right on Carbon Beach (aka Billionaire’s Beach) and nestled between some of the area’s most exclusive and luxe celeb pads, the Malibu Beach Inn is a warm, beloved hideaway that delivers a coveted Malibu value as well as luxury.

It effortlessly achieves the balance between fabulous and cozy…lazing about in your room and hearing the gentle surf just down below while you browse through one of the coffee table books on surfing and indulging in a glass of California red pretty much embodies the luxuriously casual Malibu lifestyle that you’re meant to enjoy whilst you’re in residence. Rooms are generously appointed with digital entertainment systems, video game systems, 400 pre-loaded CD’s & MP3 player docks, exotic furniture, in-room wine selections, European coffees, custom robes and more. Kind of like your very own celeb pad.

It’s just a short walk too to all of the stops you’ll want to hit, the restaurants of the Malibu Country Mart, hiking trails, beaches and a convenient drive to Beverly Hills for even more fabulousness. If you’re more the homebody type, their Cure Spa beckons with a variety of treatments, and the Carbon Beach Club restaurant offers tremendous California coastal cuisine and a wine list a mile long – enough to keep you entertained throughout your stay.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save $150 on a Full Ocean View Room per night plus receive one complimentary 50 minute Swedish Massage! Valid for travel Sundays-Thursdays through 31 May 2010. Click HERE for more info

YAN KEE WAY- Eco Sport Adventure complex- Patagonia, Chile
Folks, rest assured- touristic areas in Chile are open for business and this astounding destination is a veritable multi-colored spectrum of culture and adventure not to be left off of your travel to-do list for any reason. Become one with nature (and luxury) at the gorgeous Yan Kee Way. Just an hour’s drive from Puerto Montt, this lakeshore base for adventure expeditions sits in the shadow of a volcano and at the hub of the area’s most exciting outdoor adventures.

Their chalets and bungalows are the best choice if you really want to feel as if you’re in your own home nestled deep in the woods. 1400 square feet of old-world handcrafted local wood structures filled with the most modern, luxe amenities and decorated with local Chilean and Argentinean artwork hand-selected by the founder himself. Rest here after days filled with fly fishing, hiking, climbing, birding, biking, boating, canoeing, rafting and everything else that makes this side of Chile so spectacular. http://www.southernchilexp.com/

And when you’re hungry, no fear- the fabulously unique Latitude 42º Restaurant is at your service, producing dishes from a kitchen that was actually built in the US, disassembled, shipped, and then put back together in this Patagonian paradise.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- 4TH night free! Plus, special Eco Adventure packages starting at just $450 per person per night. Travel by 15 Oct 2010. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

ANJET- On-demand private jet charters

Crowded airport check-in queues got you down? Had enough of long waits, checked bag fees, impossibly incomprehensible delays, discourteous seatmates and the oh-so-aggravating hand luggage restrictions? If you’ve raised your hand to any or all of these (plus the myriad of other instances that can make the otherwise glorius thrill of travel seem more of a drudge than a pleasure) then you need to become acquainted with ANJET. THE best on-demand private jet charter company, hands down.

Why? Well, we’ll tell you. They have extensive, solid relationships with the top aircraft operators in the business- what that means for you is quality aircraft, amazing service, and on-time departures and arrivals at your command, anywhere in the world. They also respect your freedom….freedom to fly one way if you want without any restrictions on round-trip minimums or required multi-leg journeys. You fly when you want, where you want- they make it happen as simple as that.

No long-term commiemnts and hey, just about the best pricing in the market for these types of private flights. Don’t believe us? Try a quote and you’ll see for yourself. After all, travel’s supposed to be fun and glamourous, isn’t it?

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 10% off of any chartered flights PLUS- receive $250 worth of custom catering through 31 Dec 2010. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

GALAPAGOS SAFARI CAMP- Galapagos Islands
A Galapagos experience in itself is miraculous, but seeing Galapagos from within, from a completely different perspective evokes a whole new sense of emotion. Look up…up…high in the wild highlands and you’ll find the Galapagos Safari Camp. It’s a swanky tented lodge – cool enough yet rustic enough to offer the authentic inland experience, with stunning views of the Pacific and the National Park to boot. Taking cues from the traditional African safari, guests need not sacrifice comfort and luxury in exchange for being able to be as close to nature as possible. Rather, these luxe tents were built out of passion and a love for the land, and sit serenely in the hills near a timeless infinity pool and stylish central lodge. All the while keeping in mind responsible practices that give back to this pristine part of the Earth, as these Enchanted Isles after all are fragile ecosystems new to tourism, and easily strained by human presence. So, you have the opportunity to give back yourself- perhaps plant a tree and learn more about flora & fauna, and protection of wildlife in general.

Their Classic Safari package is a great way to go, and ideal for combining with a cruise experience as well to be able to enjoy as many of the islands as possible. It’s a meticulously designed journey filled with wildlife experiences, visits with local experts, science, snorkeling, and everything else you would never expect. Kind of like the Galapagos Islands themselves…. http://www.galapagossafaricamp.com/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 10% on the Classic Safari package for travel through the end of May, 2010. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

It's April Fools Day...but these hotels are no joke. Here's a roundup of some of our favorite unique places to check out. We promise, they are the real deal!

CAPSULE INN- Akihabara district, Tokyo, Japan
Akihabara is the digital mecca of Japan, lights everywhere, mile-high electronics palaces, and the center of the Earth for diehard Anime fans. It is also home to the Capsule Inn. This place is NOT for the claustrophobic. While you’ll surprisingly find a TV, blinds, a bed, radio, alarm clock and adjustable lighting schemes in this 1m x 1m x 2m box and even separate areas for men and women with separate restrooms too along with a complete list of instructions on how to make the most of your stay, what you will not find is space. It’s worth a try just for the experience, but maybe on the hourly room rate plan. www.capsuleinn.com

EUROMAST TV TOWER- Rotterdam, Netherlands
That’s right, it’s several suites set in a futuristic bubble-like dome high atop a TV tower. While the suites are beautifully outfitted and naturally provide some of the most breathtaking views you can imagine, they’re by far not the main attraction here. Their famous extreme sports adventures are what it’s all about, and just about anyone at any experience level can join in. Abseiling Descending down 100 meters without a wall to position yourself upon is pretty unbelievable in itself, but if that’s not enough- try their famous Pluck- a 100 meter glide down at a speed of 100 km/hr. 15 Seconds from top to bottom…shivers! www.euromast.nl

EXPLORANTER- Brazil
The “unexpected Brazil” is exactly what you should expect when embarking on one of these amazing adventure tours that personally introduces you to the soul of Brazil that very few travelers ever get to meet. Board a 25-ton truck and trailer, outfitted with a kitchen, 28 beds, and fueled with adrenaline. You travel along amazing routes in this motel on wheels- all the while being regaled with wild tales of interesting journeys by your effervescent, fearless native tourguide and diving into experiences you would have never imagined. www.exploranter.com

PLANE MOTEL- Waitomo, New Zealand
As if flying to New Zealand from most parts of the world didn’t have you airborne enough, here’s an opportunity to stay in an actual plane, on the ground. The Plane Motel in Waitomo, NZ was actually one of the last allied planes to leave Vietnam, and now sits open waiting to welcome guests who wish to pitch up in one of their two suites. The Cockpit Unit fits up to 4, word of caution- the ceilings are LOW so best for kids. Or, opt for the Tail Unit, complete with a double bed and bunks. www.woodlynpark.co.nz/planemotel.html

SALA SILVERMINE- Vastmanland, Sweden
It’s the world’s deepest bedroom- 155 meters underground in a preserved silver mine complete with winding passageways, deep cavernous spaces and mystical lakes that seem to appear out of nowhere. Word to the wise, it’s cold, damp and dank so bring proper attire, but this spelunking experience is well worth donning some layers for. www.salasilvergruva.se

Grand Dédale Country House- Wellington, South Africa
There are so many vineyards around the world, so many wines, so many varieties. Perhaps you’ve read about them, traveled lazily through a wine route on a sunny day, sampling as you go. But we feel no real wine itinerary checklist is complete unless you’ve had the divine pleasure of experiencing the South African Cape Winelands. And no stay in the South African Cape Winelands is complete without an experience at a boutique estate.

Grand Dédale fits the bill beautifully, elegant, privately owned, nestled at the foot of a stunning mountain pass in the region of Wellington and extremely private. Perfection flows freely throughout their 6 special guest rooms, outfitted with luxurious goodies, mouth-watering homemade breakfasts and delicacies with high-tea service are presented daily and imaginative dishes are created for dinner, which you can carefully pair with your selection of gorgeous local wines.

Wellington is a wine area not to be missed. Remaining somewhat off the beaten path, it’s blessed with every ingredient the perfect wine valley should have- in fact, here’s what locals refer to as their “Top 10”!

-Bontebok Ridge Game Reserve- providing a unique wildlife & nature experience not commonly found in this part of the country

-Foxenburg Organic Cheese & Olive Estate- honoring traditional recipes with an organic twist

-Upland Organic Wine & Brandy Estate- employing sustainable farming practices and sending you home with cheerful African cards and a bag of Porcini mushrooms farmed on premises!

-Buffalo Ridge Mozzrella farm- learn the process from start to delicious finish

-Wellington Wine Walk & Horseback Riding- Walk with enthusiastic guides full of local knowledge, while you’re introduced to local personalities and products within the area.

-Hildenbrand Wine & Olive Estate- Meet the owner and learn the beautiful art of creating oil

-Bainskloof Pass- Take a hike through mystical fynbos-covered mountain slopes

-Bovlei Wine & Nature Valley- The area itself is just filled with award-winningwineries, restaurants, shops, outdoor activities, rivers, natural rock pools and gardens.

-Shopping- From organic products to leather factories, locally-produced glassware to art

-Wellington Wine & Brandy Route- small, compact and easily conquerable on foot

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Stay 3 nights at Grand Dédale and receive
-Daily breakfast, afternoon teas & beverages from resident bar
-Complimentary wine tasting at Doolhof Wine Estate
-Complimentary Brandy & Grappa tasting at Nabygelegen Cellar
-Complimentary cheese & olive tasting at Foxenburg organic farm
-Game drive at Bontebok Ridge Game Farm followed by drinks
And, if you can travel between 01 May – 08 Jun, you can save an additional 20%! Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

EVADE HOTELS- Spain

There’s something about Catalonia (or Catalunya depending on who you’re speaking to)... something intriguing and different, we can’t quite put our finger on it. Perhaps it’s the fierce pride and independent strength of the people, or the multitude of converging landscapes from mountains to beaches, or the intoxicating wine and food, or maybe just the old-fashioned fun of decoding the language especially if you’re a Spanish-speaker. Whatever it is, it’s enough to draw us back again and again. It’s easy to get drawn in by Barcelona’s wonders, but on your next visit, consider moving a bit into the interior and discovering two unique boutique hotels that both define a true Catalunyan experience.

Love wine? Well then you’ll find a home in Can Bonsastre Wine Resort- famous for their Winestyle and location in a most perfect vineyard paradise. Your only job here is to allow them to help you lavish in the true essence of wine culture, which is easy in this 16-th century country estate-turned-luxe-boutique, the near-perfect weather, a restaurant devoted to overwhelming the five senses, and wine activities a-plenty from tastings, pairing lessons, vineyard visits and beyond.

If you’re more the gourmand type, ABaC Restaurant & Hotel a bit further inland .....
It’s all about the fabulous food here, spearheaded by their own in –house 2 Star Michelin restaurant that allows you into this culinary palace for a peek, and an opportunity to select your wine from over 800 varieties. During any times where you’re not sampling the sumptuous cuisine (which may not be many), you have your choice of one of 15 exclusively lavish rooms bestowing upon you the finest linens, soothing cream colored decor, extreme technology, Hermes bath amenities and privacy. Discover this sultry side of Spain, easy to add on to any city stay.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Book a stay at ABaC Restaurant & Hotel receive late check-in or early check-out and a special cocktail at the Lounge Bar. Book a stay at Can Bonastre and receive late check-in or early check-out, Sunset cocktail with views of Montserrat Mountain and a special gift from the wine cellar. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

LUGGAGE CONCIERGE

So, we read a story today that says that lost/mishandled baggage amongst the world’s airports is down by 23.8%. We certainly wouldn’t necessarily be quick to believe that, considering our track record of 3 items lost so far this year and it’s only March! We’ve found the ideal way to eliminate that possibility all together, and it is called Luggage Concierge. They allow you the freedom and simplicity of traveling without your luggage in tow, and the confidence in knowing your bags will actually be at your destination when you arrive- all the while also removing that ridiculous bag shlep to check-in and from baggage claim. Oh, and also saving you from that maddening feeling of being made to spend money on a SmartCart as well.

How does it work? It’s very simple-
-Simply log on, enter your home and destination address
-Enter the sizes/shapes of your bags
-You’ll then receive a Welcome package via mail within 2 business days, including prepaid shipping labels
-Select your pickup date, travel dates, address where your bags should be returned to and voila…done

They cover the entire US and over 200 locations worldwide, so chances are they can help you with almost any itinerary query you can present to them. Travel can be stressful enough sometimes, why not make it easier on yourself?

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 20% on your next LuggageConcierge shipping order! Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

BAGULOUS Bags & Apparel

They’re our new favorite bags, and we have a feeling you’re going to like them too. Not only do they look FABULOUS (or Bagulous as it were), but each line is associated with a charity that has a personal meaning to each member of the team. They’re every bit as chic, sassy and unique as their founder Kristina, who believes that everyone not only deserves to look good, but to feel good to while doing something to give back to a helpful cause.

They’re all designed with both function and fashion in mind, and trust us, they work in any setting- bags to go out with, bags to beach-it with, and bags that most importantly fit neatly in any carry-on. These totes are what you should be totin’ while travelin’…enjoy!

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 10% on every purchase. (Facebook members receive an extra savings- click HERE & become a fan now!) Visit http://www.bag-u-lous.com/ for more details and be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

THE LEADING HOTELS OF THE WORLD- Save the date & SAVE!
Have we got a deal for you...several actually! Courtesy of Leading Hotels of the World who encourage you to make your vacation plans now and save 30-50% while you're at it! From now until 31 March 2010, book their "Save the Date: offer and receive dramatic savings of 30-50% for stays between 01 April - 30 June 2010 at participating Leading Hotels of the World. Time is of the essence! So, if you want to save, please don't delay and inquire today to take advantage of these amazing savings.

Select all-inclusive properties offer savings of 20% or more as well. Click HERE for more information and, as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

CASA COLOMBO- Sri Lanka

Thirsty for an immersion into an entirely quixotic locale? Sri Lanka may just need to be added to your “to-travel-to” list. Take a bit of British, a dab of Dutch, a morsel of Malay, apinch of Portuguese, an inkling of Indian and you’ve got a brilliant blend of culture and charm. Colombo is the island’s largest city and commercial capital, and a great place to start your Sri Lankan stay before trekking outward to the island’s beautiful beaches.

Casa Colombo ranks high on our list of most surprising hidden gems- just 12 Retro-chic suites carved out of a 200 year-old Moorish mansion built by one of the wealthiest Indian trading families way back when. No expense was spared, from the intricate mosaic floors, handcarved arches, stylish gold ceilings, handpainted frescoes, and unique custom-designed uber-mod furniture (which by the way can all be purchased and carefully shipped home for you).

These aren’t your ordinary suites at all. Touches like intelligent lightning, intuitive technology, super duper king size bed (yes, 7 x 7’!) and even a secret twist in the shower. You’ll have to find that one out yourself.

Need something? No problem- that’s what your Casa Domo is there for, designed to look after you personally and even more carefully than the regular old Butler, who’s there to come to you rather than wait to be asked to take care of something. They’ll meet you at the airport to transport you in style via grand vintage car to the hotel, glass of bubbly in your hand all the way along. A hot lounge, trendy restaurant, signature spa treatments, and even a pink pool with 8 glass sun beds complete with music and phone just complete this full circle of underlying sensuality that surrounds Casa Colombo.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Stay 1 night, get the next night FREE. Valid on Traveler Suite, Corporate Suite and Royal Suite categories, click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!
*Valid for travel through 15 Dec 2010, must be booked at least 10 days prior to arrival

SHEEPSKIN - Welsh holiday cottage rentals

We'd like to introduce you to a new holiday company that we think you'll love...meet Sheepskin, featuring ten stylish self catering properties in remote, inspiring and beautiful locations in Wales. A Sheepskin stay brings a whole new meaning to the phrase "self catering" as its properties combine the comforts of a hotel with the freedom and privacy of home. They feature everything you need to relax and unwind on a UK weekend or week away: fluffy bathrobes, luxurious cotton towels, log burning fires, a B&W Zeppelin iPod docking station, and beds made with soft cotton sheets, cozy Welsh blankets and generous faux furs. There are even homey essentials like fresh Welsh bread, butter, fresh roast coffee, tea, milk, olive oil, sea salt and pepper left in the cottage for your arrival.

Want the self catering feel without the catering? Not to worry, Sheepskin will arrange for pre-prepared dinners to be in the fridge when you get there. Order just one meal or enough for the whole stay and simply pop them in the oven. Alternatively be completely decadent and let Sheepskin organize a chef to cook your meals and wash up afterwards.

Sheepskin prices remain the same year-round and include the company's concierge-style service where you're asked what you're interested in seeing and doing during your stay. Then, Sheepskin finds out all of the info you'll need and include it in a personalized pack, from where to go walking or fishing to the best place to get fresh local meet, to the most romantic spot to propose! www.sheepskinlife.com

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Book a week's stay and receive 2 of Sheepskin's luxurious bathrobes gift wrapped and delivered to your home free of charge along with your personalized information pack which contains directions and vital information on the property you select. Valid for travel through 30 Jun 2010. Click HERE for more information and, as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

LITTLE PALM ISLAND RESORT & SPA- Florida Keys

You’re looking for luxury, you’re looking to escape, you’re super busy and you’re looking at your calendar and realizing you only have a few days at best to make this all happen. Really not a problem, luxe romantic bliss is but a short hop to Florida and Little Palm Island Resort & Spa. Do you think you can handle a few mornings of waking up to the blissful sound of lapping waves while enveloped in a soft linen cocoon in your private thatched-roof oceanfront Bungalow suite? Spending a lazy few days napping in an oversized hammock, strolling through a meditative Zen Garden, or simply just planting yourself in a plush lounge chair nestled in the sand? Then this is where you need to be.

Romance rules here at Little Palm Island, ensuring each guest is free of the distractions of everyday life to be able to focus on what matters. No telephones or TVs, just the serene outdoors, indulgent cuisine complete with private dining options, and an exotic Indonesian-style spa with a lavish array of Balinese and Thai treatments. Island concierges even secretly slip into your suite whilst you’re at dinner to prepare the ultimate sensual setting to retreat to in the evening.

If all of this wasn’t enough, the ease of access is key here. Head to Miami, rent a convertible and take the gorgeous drive down to Little Torch Key, where you’ll board a boat for the 15-minute ride to this private island paradise.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary daily breakfast for 2. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

VAMPIRE SUITES AT SOHO BOUTIQUE HOTEL- Budapest

Everywhere you turn these days, it’s all about the vampire. True Blood, Twilight, New Moon…the list goes on and on, now even the hotel sector’s caught on. It’s madness-yet strangely cool, and we found some rooms that are pretty darn fang-tastic.

The Soho Boutique Hotel is one of Budapest’s most unique, in design, philosophy, and size and now, in suite offering. In celebration of the show “Dance of the Vampires”, they’ve unveiled two Vampire Suites inspired by the two main characters. This means that you get to sleep in a magnificent if not Dracula-esque baroque style room with eclectic velvet furniture, uniquely crafted antique chandeliers, sleek floors, and shocking colors. They’ll even be sure to greet you with a Vampire Juice cocktail upon arrival.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- We’ll be sure you’re set up properly to prepare yourself for your vampire encounter with a Budapest city tour during your stay so you can stake out all of the best local haunts. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!