Hoteldorf Grüner Baum- Bad Gastein, Austria

Loved for so long by true connoisseurs, this family-run hotel has been somewhat of a best-kept-secret since 1925. What began as a small country inn constructed by the family’s great-grandmother has blossomed into a gorgeous high-altitude hideaway welcoming guests with traditional Alpine-style guest rooms, library, delightful restaurants and cozy open fires. Nestled quietly in a quaint pure valley outside the famed spa town of Bad Gastein, the hotel continues to be a spectacular draw for skiers in the winter, avid hikers in the summer, and spa enthusiasts year round. For, this is no ordinary center of wellness…its thermal indoor pool resplendent with water straight from the hot springs offers a wonderfully soothing sensation for the joints and a revitalization of circulation. It’s rumored that magical powers also exist in their special healing gallery caves, once providing an inexplicable cure for rheumatism for gold miners, and now boasting revitalizing cures for chronic illnesses countless times over via an amazing blend of altitude, air pressure, mineral concentration and a dash of mystical wonder.

Rooms and suites are charming and spacious, adorned with rich fabrics, hand-carved wood furniture and balconies offering stunning views of the magical mountains. A stunning feature to note is that the hotel offers a completely revitalized holiday experience each season! While winter brings with it the fabulous skiing, sledding and skating adventures, summer takes on a whole new life of its own in Bad Gastein. Guests here can indulge in a variety of unique experiences designed for outdoor adventure and plenty of family bonding. Consider rock climbing, a Jacob's Ladder rope climb in the forest, a visit to the petting zoo, rafting along the Gasteiner lake, and a delightful rustic mountain breakfast with the Blumschein family complete with sunshine, music and breathtaking scenery.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary horse-drawn carriage ride through the national park complete with picnic lunch in the forest, plus children 16 & under stay free in room with parents, or their own room for only 60 Euro per night. Click HERE for more info and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

*7 nt min required for carriage ride/picnic

AFRI-SKI- Lesotho

OK- you've conquered all domestic slopes, schussed the Alps, even trekked to Chile to add a bit of flavor to your well-worn skis. But, did you ever consider the possibility of skiing Africa? Most people don't even think it's possible, which is why it's all the more appealing. One of the best ways to conquer this ski-themed final frontier is over at Afri Ski, the top African ski experience. It's set in the mysterious kingdom of Lesotho...ok, so not so mysterious but it sounds good, doesn't it? Lesotho is a tiny nation surrounded completely by South Africa, so carry your passport on the drive which is just a few hours from Johannesburg.

We're talking a 1 KM ski slope, snow making equipment, kids club, ski school, ski rentals, challenging courses, lifts and more- it's the real deal in a place you'd never expect.

Needless to say, this is not a snap decision, a trip like this takes plotting out so
hurry now and you can still make it before the season ends in a few months. Plus, you can brag about just returning fresh off the slopes at a fabulous find when everyone else back home is still waiting for the season to begin. You are so ahead of the curve... www.afri-ski.net

NB- The resort runs STRICTLY on a cash basis only, be sure to hit up the ATM before trekking out.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save up to 30% at a selection of ultra-cool boutique hotels in Johannesburg to pair with a Lesotho skiing jaunt, along wiht special savings on private car transportation to Afri Ski. Click HERE for more information or to book and be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

OPPOSITE HOUSE- Beijing-OK travel fiends, it's time to channel your inner George Costanza and take an OPPOSITE approach. Start here when next in Beijing with the fabulous Opposite House- the name says it all, a blend of unique contrasts that reside at extreme ends of the spectrum.

The Outside? Funky green glass and uber-modern design, yet is filtered from the inside. The Inside? Tranquil mosaics, sinewy structures yet no boundaries

The Location? Right in The Village of Sanlitun (aka "the village" to the locals), a vibrant innovative development centered on fashion, style, modernity, outrageousness and fun- diametrically opposed to its original state (aka Beijing's diplomatic quarter for half a century)

The Rooms? Probably some of the most mod out there- 400 thread count linen, mood lighting, French coffee press, super surround sound stereo system, rain shower, and signature deep soaking oak bathtub to name just a few of its stellar amenities.

Keeping with the theme, the F&B offerings here are not at all what you'd expect- rather, the themes here are centered on Mediterranean fare, Asian fusion, and naturally, 2 lounges (one for mellow moods and one with brisk beats). Go Opposite in Beijing, you'll be glad you did. http://www.oppositehouse.com/ /

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 10% on your stay. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

AETHER MOBILE- Save up to 90% on international calls

Karma can be a you-know-what. My payback in life for being unabashedly, visibly amused over and over again upon disembarking from a cruise and seeing thousands of people staring at their bills that were discretely shoved under the door hours before, clutching their heads and saying “how the heck can I owe all this extra money!” is the dreaded ridiculously huge international cell phone bill. That which I’ve incurred far too many times from far too many trips, and far too many long unnecessary conversations or streams of text messages and is always enough of a buzz-kill to make me resolve to put down the Blackberry when I travel. OK- so we all know that’s never going to happen, and if you’re an Explorateur you know that’s not going to happen with you either. This is why you need to discover Aether Mobile.

We’re talking INCREDIBLE savings on international roaming. The service is brilliant, just one SIM card from them and you’re up and running right away, saving up to 90% as you globe-hop and chat/text to your heart’s content. We’re talking no fixed contracts, no expiration on credit, automatic top-ups, clear connections, free texts, and SAVINGS.

They cover 206 countries (76 of which are free roaming!) and 565 international network operators, plus you’ll get access to voice mail and efficient customer service- so, take that extra coin and spend it on something far more interesting and sensible- like that pair of chartreuse leather sparkly pointy-toed slippers in the souk. http://www.aether-mobile.com/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save an additional 14%! Use code ‘Explorateur’ when registering and voila, instant additional savings. No need to be afraid of the international call any longer. Gab on with confidence and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

WORLD'S BEST HOTEL AMENITY (tell us & win a luxe Cambodia hotel stay!)

We admit it, our fascination with hotel amenities borders on obsession...from high tech gadgets to special services and the entire spectrum in between. The shameless sheer joy we get from entering a bathroom and finding it laden with shower gels, soaps, lotions and potions from a fabulous brand is ridiculous, and the discovery of an ultra-incredible amenity for us is like striking gold (or finding the perfect dish in a sea of restaurants).

We've certainly got our list of favorites, but we're more interested in hearing what tops your own list. What's the best you've seen? What would you LOVE to see? Send your ideas to info@theexplorateurportfolio.com and the most creative idea wins a stay in Cambodia!
Including:
-4 nights at the fabulous Hotel de la Paix, Angkor
-Welcome drink upon arrival, daily gourmet breakfast
-Complimentary wi-fi, spa access (and a 20% discount on treatments)

Hotel de la Paix is a stylish boutique retreat that boasts its own array of ultra-cool amenities including JBL speakers with pre-loaded iPods in all rooms that have temple guides and local music that guests can take with them on their journey to Angkor Wat. Quite clever if you ask us! Read all about them HERE and good luck!

SPREAD A RUMOR, GO TO THAILAND
Who doesn't love to spread a juicy secret? If you're loving our e-newsleters, simply tell your friends and for each one that subscribes and refers you, you get a chance to win a luxurious 5 night Thailand hotel stay!

The more you spread the word, the better your chance of winning (and luxing it up in a gorgeous suite). Click HERE to begin.

Now, GO GOSSIP!!!

And be sure to follow us on Facebook & Twitter for more chances to win

DAR DARMA- Marrakech

Visiting Marrakech and not staying in a riad is kind of like visiting a world-famous restaurant and not indulging in its most fabulous dishes. Why bother if you’re not going to do it right. A traditional riad offers elegance, luxury, intrigue and warmth, and there is no better place to experience the soul of this city than at Dar Darma.

Created in the 18th century and carefully restored to its original intricate grandeur, this riad is just steps from some of the city’s most must-be-explored places such as the famous Jemaa El Fna square, and meant to be a guest’s own private palace with ultra-personalized service and exclusivity. What’s especially delightful is the endless discovery of interesting touches just about everywhere you turn, from the shaded lounges, the fine furnishings, the imposing arches, grand handcrafted doors, inlaid designs and brilliant combinations of color extending down to the names of some of the rooms (Orange Suite, Blue Apartment…you get the idea). The Suite of Mirrors is perhaps the most interesting, bathed in purple hues and a mirrored wall reflecting the beautiful décor.

Relaxation and Indulgence come in many forms here, from a lazy afternoon spent on one of the gorgeous sofas on the terrace taking in the spectacular views, a refreshing visit to the Hammam, a revitalizing scrub treatment in the privacy of one’s own suite, an evening nightcap by the fireplace, and of course the cuisine. Chef on property is famous for his take on traditional Moroccan dishes, and will even allow you to sneak into the kitchen to learn some of his secrets. www.dardarma.com

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 20% on May travel, and 30% on travel June- October plus receive a 15-Euro dining credit. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

UTTER INN- Lake Mälaren, Sweden

When you’re told “yes, it’s the red house, the red house in the middle of the water” upon asking for directions to your hotel, you become curious if not a tad anxious as well. When the words that follow are akin to “someone will pick you up in an inflatable boat and give you all the instructions you need before leaving you alone”, you get nervous but fear not, as Utter Inn is perhaps one of the most peaceful spots in all of Sweden.

Getting there though is just a slight mission. Utter Inn is the vision realized by local Swedish artist Mikael Genberg who’s created a half-above/half-below paradise in the form of a single room that lies under the surface of Lake Mälaren. Accommodations are Spartan, limited to 2 twin beds and a small table, but with panoramic windows encircling the room. You’re indeed in your own fishbowl here, where underwater creatures peek curiously at you while you dine in the comfort of your own pod-like space (be sure to purchase the DeLuxe package so that your dinner is delivered fresh by boat in the evening).

If you’re finding that the cabin fever is setting in far too much, head to the surface where you’ve got access to the inflatable canoe to go exploring the surrounding islands and in the summer, there’s no better spot to catch a tan than on the small deck surrounding the little red house that becomes your own private island if only for a night.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Basket full of Swedish goodies from Daim chocolates to Lingonberries to get you prepped for your journey. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

ISLAND HIDEAWAY AT DHONAKULHI SPA RESORT & MARINA- Maldives

In an archipelago like the Maldives, with 1196 islands in 26 natural Atolls, one surely should be able to find a tiny little hideaway of one’s own, shouldn’t they? The Island Hideaway certainly agrees, and has created a luxury boutique resort on a privately-owned, uninhabited virgin island that guests can call all their own. It’s so remote that not only a 45-minute hopper flight from Male does the trick, for, after you land, a speedboat awaits for the remaining 20 minutes of the journey. You have to really want to get here, but when you do, you’ll understand. The entire island is your own private domain here, surrounded by a shallow waist-deep lagoon with some of the most crystal-clear waters you’ll ever see. Here, nature blends with luxury and privacy…rooms evoke a rustic charm with their custom made handcrafted furniture and magical little architectural touches and colors designed to overwhelm the senses, all purposely set quite far from one another delivering private havens of serenity and peace. If all of that relaxation in the room isn’t enough, don’t fret- there’s a signature Mandara Spa on property, and you know what that means- pure spa luxury in every way possible. Ultra-romantic dining options, butler service, and one of the world’s most stunning beaches complete this circle of absolute perfection. Far, far away… but far from forgettable…

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary one category room upgrade, which you can combine with their fantastic free night offers (7 for 5, 14 for 10!) plus free domestic airport transfers for 2 to the resort. Valid for travel through 21 Dec 2011. Click HERE For more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

BEAU RIVAGE PALACE- Lausanne, Switzerland
The quest for hotel perfection finishes here, at the luxe Beau-Rivage Palace which sits regally upon her throne of 10 acres of private gardens on the banks of crystalline Lake Geneva. The Belle Epoque buildings of this historical luxury hotel are perched beautifully on 10 acres of private gardens that command breathtaking views across the lake and dazzling Alps.

168 richly appointed, impossibly elegant rooms and suites await your arrival so they can begin spoiling you. For extra grand flair, we recommend the spectacular Luxury Executive suites, all creatively designed in unique style. Long serving as a retreat for some of the world's most rich, royal and famous, the hotel is a stunning Swiss gem, and you need not be rich, royal, nor famous to indulge in their outstanding offerings.

The dining on property is perhaps just as awe-inspiring as the views, from the new gastronomic restaurant, "Anne-Sophie Pic au Beau-Rivage Palace" which proudly holds 2 Michelin stars, to the "Café Beau-Rivage" and the refined and stylish sushi restaurant "Miyako Lausanne".

Their signature Cinq Mondes Spa is truly a universe of relaxation unto itself, where guests are invited to discover the beauty rituals from the world over through an array of gorgeous body treatments, pools, fitness facilities, Japanese baths and Hammams. The Beau-Rivage Palace provides the impeccable service including also a special kids program to make each stay truly personalized and unforgettable. http://www.brp.ch/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Special savings & exclusive extras on their Signature Package including 2 nights in a lovely gardenview room at significant savings, bottle of champagne upon arrival, daily buffet breakfast, a gourmet 6-course gastronomic experience in their Michelin-starred restaurant, one 50-minute treatment at their Cinq Mondes Spa, free access to fitness center plus a box of Swiss chocolates and welcome drink upon arrival. For more information, please click HERE. And, as always, be sure & tell everyone The Explorateur sent you!

NB- we've spotted some VERY decent summer fares on Swiss and AA from various US gateways to Geneva...hurry & book now to take advantage of this amazing offer

PALAZZO MAGNANO FERONI- Florence, Italy
Pack your cloak, polish your crown, shine your scepter and get ready to walk proud, with your shoulders held back, master of all you survey. Or, skip these steps and check directly into Palazzo Magnani Feroni if you’re just dying to know what it must have felt like to live like true European nobility. This regal hideaway has served as a luxurious retreat for members of the aristocracy since the 1500’s, and now it awaits your arrival as well- ready to treat you in the same spectacular noble fashion.

Attention to details here- marvelous. Attention to the most minute details- meticulous. Service that makes you feel as though you're a member of elite high society- ridiculous (in an amazing way of course). Breakfast the Palazzo manner means dining in an extravagant hall graced by an incredibly ornate Murano crystal chandelier, evening cocktails here are meant to be sipped in romantically illuminated galleries once home to the most elegant of parties thrown in spectacular, indulgent fashion by the Feroni marquises.

We recommend the Feroni Deluxe Suite for the best possible experience. Featuring it's own en-suite laptop connected to wi-fi and printer, lavish marble bathrooms with fab Bulgari amenities and perhaps the best possible amenity we've ever seen- a Vibro Power machine which is one of the hottest pieces of fitness equipment around designed for slimming, massage and exercise all in one. No visit to the Palazzo Magnani Feroni is complete without enjoying a dinner or nightcap on their unique panoramic terrace, one of the most special yet hidden gems in all of Florence providing amazing views of the entire city. Trust us, it's much better to enjoy Florence as a noble, even if it's only for a few days.
Why treat yourself to this experience? Because saying "I'll be retreating to the Palace tonight" just never gets old. http://www.palazzomagnanoferoni.com/


http://www.palazzomagnanoferoni.com/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 15% on a 3 night stay or longer in a Palace Suite, plus enjoy a complimentary cocktail at the Palace Bar and continental breakfast served in the Murano Hall. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

ARANUI 3- Cruise Vessel-

It's the world's most remote archipelago, and you want to get there. Lucky you, there just happens to be a "freighter to paradise" departing shortly that has a cabin with your name on it. The Aranui 3 is a unique find, a cargo ship-turned-passenger vessel complete with all the cruise ship comforts you could ask for. It's day job is delivering supplies to the Marquesas, but it moonlights as a fabulous mode of transport for guests that are ready to explore this lush, unspoiled South Pacific island paradise.

Board in Papeete, Tahiti - we recommend spending a few days in an overwater bungalow just to prepare, we might suggest Le Taha'a if we can be so bold. Set sail, and your days on the journey will be filled with exotic remote stops, jeep safaris through the mountains, excavations into jungles filled with sacred ritual sites and ubiquitous Peter Brady-style tiki statues (do NOT pick one up and whatever you do, do NOT wear it around your neck, you know what happens)

The culture of the Marquesas is surprisingly fascinating, it's been inspiring writers and composers for decades because of its remote, secluded nature and stunning natural beauty. 15 islands in total, only 6 are inhabited, 4 have airstrips, 2 are accessible by boat, leaving 1 Aranui 3 to serve as a true lifeline to the locals.

Perhaps it's been a lifelong dream, perhaps you were intrigued by the destination by watching Survivor, or perhaps you need to completely disconnect like an unplugged phone- whatever your story may be, this is one of the last remaining idyllic places on earth so hurry now and book for the best deals ever.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Book now and enjoy a complimentary bottle of wine in your cabin upon arrival to celebrate the start of the journey. Pair this with any savings package. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

ANCIENT SUMMIT- Bespoke cultural itineraries in Peru
There are a million ways to see Peru, but none as unique as Nina Fogelman’s way. Nina is to Peru what a Savile Row tailor is to a suit…crafting the most beautiful, enriching and well-suited itineraries customized to each individual travelers’ needs that fit beautifully. Her company, Ancient Summit, offers a most unique approach to touring Peru- integrating luxury with an unparalleled, in-depth cultural immersion into this ancient and magical culture.

Nina’s status as the ultimate cultural hostess has been achieved from her many years of living in Peru, discovering the country’s multiple dimensions and crafting the itineraries around her own personal experiences that mean the most to her. The thoughtfully planned journeys include a selection of personally chosen accommodations based on each guest’s personality and preference, airport assistance, private ground transportation by skilled drivers, a variety of meals, entrance fees to various attractions and the most authentic tours handled by the most schooled, experienced guides in the country.

Small groups, personalized attention and ever-evolving, always overwhelming authentic experiences. See Peru through Ancient Summit’s eyes…there’s no other way. http://www.ancientsummit.com/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE - Enjoy a beautiful private Andean music demonstration in the museum of musician and composer, Kike Pinto at the Taki Museum, which contains over 400 varieties of string, woodwind and percussion instruments from all over Peru. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

MONGOL RALLY 2011- MEET TEXAS 2 STEPPE!

There comes a time in every person's life where they feel the need to embark on a quest, one that begins in the UK and ends in Mongolia leaving everything in between to the wind...with no direction or assistance provided, in a car with a tiny engine that's nearly on its last legs, through lands in which he doesn't know how to communicate, all the while raising money for causes severely in need. OK, so not every person- not even close, but we'd like to introduce to you to 3 unique folks that are taking on the Mongol Rally headfirst. Diving in to an itinerary across the unknown, with no instructions across 10,000 miles of unforgiving terrain. Best part is, they have to do it in a really tiny, weak car that's got to have an engine smaller than 1.2 L , or they could just take it on in a public service vehicle in which case the engine rule is waived.

Meet the team:
Ranjan:
-Departed corporate world in lieu of new adventure, scheduled to land at Columbia University in the fall
-Homebase: Brooklyn by way of Houston
-Thing he can't travel without: iPod, whiskey, & a pic of the family

Gabe:
-Working with an education organization in NY teaching kids about creative writing
-Homebase: Brooklyn by way of Houston, also Ranjan's roommate
-Thing he can't travel without: Journal

Lyon:
-Experience on World Affairs Council, currently studying at Columbia
-Homebase: Brooklyn by way of Houston
-Thing he can't travel without: Glasses (and something to read)

Admittedly, they have no idea about the car- where they'll find it or how they'll soup it up, nor has this trio ever traveled together anywhere outside of their zip code on an extended trip, nor have they ever been to central Asia, but that's what makes it so much fun to watch. Though this may be the adventure they've always dreamed of, there's a feel-good side to this too. All along the route, they'll be working hard to raise funds for the childrens' charity the Mongol Rally organizers support, but also for charity of choice, the Bayou Partnership which is a local Houston environmental organization close to their heart. Stay tuned for updates from the road and help cheer them on en-route at www.texas2steppe.com . And, if you're feeling really generous (or just plain intrigued and want to give props to their courageous efforts), you can also make a donation on the site as well towards their fundraising goal.

Good luck!

AS SEEN ON GOOD DAY NEW YORK- 16 FEB
Here's a rundown of the EXCLUSIVE deals as seen on Good Day New York- contact us for more information on how to book at info@theexplorateur.net Happy travels!

1. BodyHoliday at LeSPORT- The Caribbean's ultimate body/mind/wellness holiday located in St Lucia.

DEAL- 25% off for travel PLUS $200 spa credit per person, PLUS one included spa treatment already per person per day, PLUS champagne in room upon arrival and complimentary Sunset Cruise for 2. All inclusive, including all meals, beverages, alcoholic drinks, activities, fitness classes and non-motorized watersports. Valid for travel 22 Mar - 30 Apr 2011, book by 28 Feb

2. Ka'Ana Boutique Resort- Belize's premiere luxury resort & a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

DEAL- 4 nights in a luxury Casita or Balam room (4th night is FREE), private guided tour of San Antonio Village and a visit with Mayan women to learn traditional clay pot making followed by breathtaking Big Rock Falls visit, private mixology class at Frieze Lounge on property hosted by master mixologist, daily full breakfast. Valid for travel through 30 Sep 2011, total price $1838 for 2 people, 4 nights

3. SUU Manuel Antonio- Costa Rica's most hip hideaway

DEAL- 4th night FREE plus daily breakfast, 1 category upgrade, free transfers from San Jose Airport- Total value of extras = $725. 4 night package starts at $678 per room, double occupancy valid for travel 01 May - 14 Jul (rates slightly higher for winter travel)

4. Costa d'Este Beach Resort -Vero Beach, FL retreat owned by Gloria Estefan
DEAL- Enjoy a 4th night free plus a $25 resort credit and 2 signature mojitos, nightly rate starting at $199.

5. MONTAUK YACHT CLUB RESORT & MARINA- The Hamptons' most legendary retreat

DEAL- Early Spring getaway- Save 30 % on March & April travel plus complimentary breakfast for 2, and save 25% midweek in May including complimentary breakfast

TIXLIST- Boston area ticket connector
Hate paying over face value for tickets to sporting events and concerts? TixList creator Christian does too which is why he created this unique initiative. TixList is a daily email listing awesome ticket deals (currently in Boston but future expansion on the way). It’s completely free to join and he's already listed over 1200 pairs of tickets, all at face value or BELOW. We're talking Box Seats at Fenway and Floor Seats to see Gaga! The majority of subscribers are probably just like you, they want to go to games or concerts without having to pay the ridiculous prices of scalpers. Lets face it, paying over face value is annoying and stupid expensive. Through a network of season ticket holders, Craigslist, and ticket brokers, he spends his day finding tickets being sold at face value or below and connect those that want with those that have. Thanks to advertisers, it doesn’t cost anything to join (well, just your email address), which means everyone wins!

DESTINATION GREECE
Greece is fabulous, Greece is gorgeous, and to even the savviest of travelers, navigating through a sea of potential itineraries when planning a trip to Greece is challenging. So many islands, so much to do, so little time in a jet-setter’s busy life to dedicate to creating the perfect itinerary. We say, put it in the hands of the experts and leave it to Destination Greece for what’s hip, hot, and positively fabulous in every port of call along the Aegean.

Simply put, they offer the best of Greece. From fabulous hotels to private luxury villas, Mediterranean island-hopping cruises to fascinating cultural and architectural expeditions with highly trained guides, they know how to do it right. They’ve been creating innovative itineraries for over a decade and are clued in to all of the best secret insider finds from the hottest restaurants to the liveliest bouzouki tavernas.

Have a group? Not a problem, they’ve got a fleet to accommodate small or large groups. Traveling solo or as a couple? Stand back and let them get super creative with ultra-romantic experiences. So, if you’re mad on Mykonos, curious about Crete, swooning over Santorini, divinely interested in Delos, or even teeming with excitement about Egypt and Turkey, let the experts handle it at Destination Greece.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Oh, in case that wasn’t reason enough, they’re offering $100 off per couple on a variety of fabulous packages across the region. Visit www.DestinationGreece.com/offers/EXPLORATEUR.htm for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

VILLA ARANJAYA- Sicily

Touch down in Catania, head south for about 20 clicks, make sure you pass Mount Etna on your right and head for the orange groves. See them yet? Good, that means you've arrived at our lovely new find, Aranjaya. Ensconced in its own organic citrus farm, it's a rustic yet chic charming villa-turned-boutique hotel, but don't let it's 8 rooms fool you. It's a vision in terracotta & whitewash and completely immersed in Sicilian character, offering its own infinity pool, tennis courts, lazy billowing palms, multi-colored flora, and ubiquitous views of the volcano.

After all, it's been run by an aristocratic family for over 300 years, who have preserved the tasteful, almost "lived-in" feel which makes guests feel like it's truly their own private home. Complete with gorgeous olive-oil bath products, Espresso machines, artistic touches and even an in-house chef (who happens to be Tunisian and produces the most incredible Mediterranean fare with a locavore flair). The lovely town of Catania sits just nearby, making this a beautiful, private spot to spend your stay in Sicily.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Book a week's stay and receive your choice of either 1 Complimentary night or an upgrade to an Orchard Suite. Click HERE for more information, and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

OPPOSITE HOUSE- Beijing

OK travel fiends, it's time to channel your inner George Costanza and take an OPPOSITE approach. Start here when next in Beijing with the fabulous Opposite House- the name says it all, a blend of unique contrasts that reside at extreme ends of the spectrum.

The Outside? Funky green glass and uber-modern design, yet is filtered from the inside.

The Inside? Tranquil mosaics, sinewy structures yet no boundaries

The Location? Right in The Village of Sanlitun (aka "the village" to the locals), a vibrant innovative development centered on fashion, style, modernity, outrageousness and fun- diametrically opposed to its original state (aka Beijing's diplomatic quarter for half a century)

The Rooms? Probably some of the most mod out there- 400 thread count linen, mood lighting, French coffee press, super surround sound stereo system, rain shower, and signature deep soaking oak bathtub to name just a few of its stellar amenities.

Keeping with the theme, the F&B offerings here are not at all what you'd expect- rather, the themes here are centered on Mediterranean fare, Asian fusion, and naturally, 2 lounges (one for mellow moods and one with brisk beats). Go Opposite in Beijing, you'll be glad you did. http://www.oppositehouse.com/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Receive a special pre-departure gift that is quite the opposite of what you might expect, to get you prepared for your visit to such a modern phenomenon. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

*valid for bookings through 31 Jan 2011

SUU MANUEL ANTONIO- Costa Rica
It began with a man named Xantos. Xantos Francesco Corleone to be exact- a man with a larger-than-life persona who has left his footprint on all 7 continents and over 100 countries (and still going). He’s a connoisseur, a self-made success, an explorer and might well be the cousin of “The Most Interesting Man In The World”. What does a man with this much admiration for world cultures and such passion for the unexpected do when he’s seen over half the world? He opens hotels of course…and his knowledge and experience becomes your opportunity to explore and indulge.

Meet the SUU Hotel Group, exclusive lifestyle resorts in some of the world’s most spectacular locales, all taking great steps to integrate each destinations culture, purity and perfection. The properties are designed to offer guests an exclusive personalized experience, whose soothing elegant ambiance and upscale unique amenities (including Xantos’s personal blend of bath and beauty products) are 100% focused on providing you with an unequalled experience.

Interested in a SUU experience? We’ve got just the thing at the SUU Manuel Antonio. 28 rooms with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and rainforest, minimalist stylish décor, butler service, gorgeous vodka & caviar bar, and fusion restaurant blend together to create Costa Rica’s most eclectic hotel experience. Get misted with Evian water by your lifestyle butler while enjoying a mid afternoon fresh fruit sorbet, and pamper yourself in the Spa, where perfectly crafted treatments are complemented by the products created from locally grown fruits & spices, and minerals from the ground.

Check out its sister property in Bodrum, Turkey and several more slated in the near future in places like Mykonos, Bali and beyond. SUU-N come!

EXCLUSIVE OFFER- Stay 4 nights, get 1 night FREE plus daily continental breakfast, room upgrade AND round-trip airport transfers from San Jose. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!