Can You Canoe?

Embarking on an adventure vacation in Mendocino is incomplete without the unique offerings of Catch A Canoe. Here’s why this outdoor haven should be a must-visit on your next escapade to the region:

Scenic Exploration:

Catch A Canoe provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Mendocino, particularly along the pristine Big River. Paddle in their distinctive canoes, immersing yourself in the beauty of towering redwoods, lush forests, and the serene waters, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your adventure.

Versatile Outdoor Activities:

Whether you’re an avid kayaker, a leisurely canoe enthusiast, or a biking aficionado, Catch A Canoe caters to a variety of outdoor interests. From peaceful paddling experiences to invigorating bike rides, there’s an activity for every adventurer, ensuring you can tailor your experience to match your preferred level of excitement.

Environmental Stewardship:

Catch A Canoe is committed to environmental sustainability. The eco-friendly redwood outrigger canoes are designed to minimize their impact on the environment, allowing you to explore nature responsibly. This commitment to conservation aligns with the values of travelers who appreciate businesses dedicated to preserving the beauty of the destinations they serve.

Memorable Experiences for All Skill Levels:

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a beginner looking to try something new, Catch A Canoe caters to all skill levels. The calm waters of Big River provide a welcoming environment for beginners, while the more adventurous can opt for longer paddles or challenging bike trails, ensuring everyone can participate and enjoy the experience.

Enhanced Vacation Experience:

Adding Catch A Canoe to your adventure vacation itinerary enhances your overall experience of Mendocino. It offers a unique perspective of the region, allowing you to create memories that go beyond the typical tourist experience and providing a sense of accomplishment as you navigate the picturesque waterways and trails.

Incorporating Catch A Canoe into your Mendocino adventure vacation promises not only exhilarating outdoor activities but also a deep connection with the natural beauty that makes this coastal destination so captivating. It’s an opportunity to explore, unwind, and create lasting memories in one of California’s most enchanting settings.

www.catchacanoe.com

Swellegant Stays: The Langham Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

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The Langham’s address is Surfers Paradise, and it’s no joke: this suburb of Gold Coast stretches along an idyllic sandy beach, looking out to the Coral Sea in the South Pacific. Surfers Paradise boomed in the 1950s and 1960s. Today there is a dramatic contrast between the high-rise developments and one of the best beaches in eastern Australia. When you stay at the sky-high Langham, the area’s first new beachfront luxury hotel in 30 years, you’ll scarcely be aware of the city: your eyes will be fixed on the beach and the ocean, exactly as it should be.

Accommodation is divided between rooms and residences, the largest of which is the 256-square-meter Four Bedroom Ocean Penthouse. The dining area is big enough to host a dinner party for eight, but make sure that when your guests have gone you still have time to soak in the bathtub and enjoy the Pacific Ocean views. The gray and white color scheme is a reminder of the ocean spray.

Dining at The Langham is a taste sensation, with flavors from across the world. The Palm Court looks out on the lagoon pool and is the place to indulge in an afternoon tea crafted by pastry chef Johann Vanier, whose chocolate tart once tasted will never be forgotten. T’ang Court won the Australian Good Food Guide Chef Hat for 2023 for its sophisticated Cantonese menu; and at Akoya you can taste the very best of Queensland’s local produce in a laid back setting. The eight plates set menu is perfect for sharing and includes fresh Pacific oysters, Rocky Point black kingfish crudo, and smoked Gooralie pork jowl with toasted buckwheat and Capricorn spiced rum. The pina colada-inspired pavlova is the perfect way to finish off your meal.

The Langham’s wellness offering rivals its culinary pleasures, and the hotel has a signature sleep program, “Sleep Matters by Chuan”, with curated treatments and amenities. The two swimming pools are open until 10pm should you want a late evening dip, and yoga, pilates and meditation sessions take place in the Health Club. The icing on the cake, however, is the Chuan Spa, where therapists are guided by principles of traditional Chinese medicine.

www.langhamhotels.com

Swellegant Stays: Palazzo Santa Spirito – Bergamo, Italy

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The Italian city of Bergamo is one half of Bergamo-Brescia Italian Capital of Culture 2023. If you want to lap up the city’s history and architecture, not to mention enjoy the major arts program running until the end of the year, then check into the gorgeous 4-Star Palazzo Santa Spirito, the newest and most exciting addition to Bergamo’s hotel scene. Set within a converted convent dating from 1309 in the Citta Bassa (the Lower Town), the hotel’s designers have kept many of the building’s original architectural features, including its huge courtyards, stone columns, and magnificent vaulted arcades. Arriving at the hotel you will feel like a guest in a palace, but as the stylish interiors reveal, if this is indeed a fairytale, it is very much a contemporary one.

Start and end your days outside: Bergamo can be pretty hot in summer, but in the early morning and late evening, the temperature is balmy. It is heavenly to sit a while with a proper Italian espresso and a freshly baked pastry (or perhaps an Aperol Spritz, if it is later in the day) on the patio at the edge of Palazzo Santa Spirito’s verdant green lawn, soaking up the atmosphere and admiring the historic buildings around you. Depending on the time of day, you might hear the tolling of the church bells echoing over the city’s terracotta rooftops.

With so much to see and do on the hotel’s doorstep, you are unlikely to spend much time indoors. When you are exhausted from sightseeing and it is time for a rest, however, you would do well to retreat to the fabulous spa and wellness center for an hour or two. If you splash out and book the Imperial Suite, you’ll be staying underneath the convent’s vaulted ceiling, with a private spa at your disposal. The suite has its own Finnish sauna and whirlpool. Palazzo Santa Spirito’s 80 guest rooms and suites are decorated in a palette of white and neutral tones, tasteful and calming in equal measure. The en suite bathrooms are a fair size for a city center hotel, with good lighting so you can dress up in your most fabulous frock and check you are looking your very best before heading back outside for dinner and another taste of la dolce vita. www.palazzosantospirito.com

A Letter From…Kimpton Surfcomber, South Beach

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Hey – we made it! After a few schedule changes, rearrangement of dates and maneuvering our way through Miami traffic, Simón and I finally made it to our Sleepover at Surf. We almost missed the driveway though – should have taken the advice and done a rideshare in, but we had to bring the electric bike, so here we are (lol). The valet was great though, allowing us to leave the car up front while we unpacked and settled in before he whisked it off to the off-site parking lot. Our long awaited and well-deserved staycation was about to begin. It was as if we had entered a new reality. In one step across the lobby threshold, the hustle and bustle were a forgotten memory and literally behind us beyond the glass doors. For a moment, I forgot that we were in Florida. We suddenly felt transported to a different country. You know how you’re always posting your fabulous getaways in Europe? I was ready to get my gram worthy photos posted and have people guessing the locale. The Kimpton Surfcomber has really made a conscious effort to capture the essence of a South of France vibe, from the climate to the cuisine. The clean, simple, Earthy atmosphere and furnishings make it easy to attract new friends or cozy up on our own. We didn’t waste any time diving into our French-inspired personalized culinary experience, after a quick tour of our lodging, which was absolutely adorable – more on that in a bit. First, I have to “dish” on the Surf’s small group curated experience in the Vines Cabanas where we created our very own Bordeaux and named it Nauravsimón. It was smooth, with notes of oak, tobacco and yet fruity, of course. What did you expect from a non-drinker like me? No worries – the connoisseurs in the group made sure it was satisfying to all palates (smiles). I should have known that our evening would be immersed in wine as we had quite the sommelier directing us – I guess the “wine valet” on the wall in our room should have been another subtle clue. We were guided not only through our Bordeaux experience, but with an astonishingly impressive wine flight that paired perfectly with every course of our group’s private Sleepover dinner. Shall I tell you what was on the menu, foodwise? First was the Amuse-Bouche, not only a delight for the tastebuds but visually so delicate and extraordinary. Remember, that South of France feel I mentioned before? I said oui, over and over, to the not-a-citrus-sorbet compressed watermelon with sudachi vanilla, garnished with fruit caviar. The little cubes made our night and were quite the conversation piece as the caviar pellets popped in our mouths. I guess you also want to hear about the rest of the dinner. The starter was a tomato-beet salad with tomato truffle vinaigrette. The varied colors of tomatoes and the sweetness of the beets combined perfectly – another stimulus for the senses.

However, what really got everybody exclaiming “encore!” was the main course, served family-style. Between you and me, we conducted ourselves way more politely than family would, if you savor what I mean. Who wanted to share the tender, melt in your mouth French boned tomahawks? Cooked and seasoned to perfection, they didn’t even need the accompanying morel cream sauce! The black grouper with sage bearnaise had its fans, as well. I don’t know if it was the wine accompaniments or the fresh, savory fare, because as much as we were consuming, there was still room for a lavender crème crème brûlée that lingered on your tastebuds – imagine the infusion of lavender, what a special treat. The fact that the psychic card reader provided as part of the evening’s entertainment did not foretell any need to change exercise routines, I’d say that it was a go for guilt-free indulgence.

Either way, we headed up to the room with all good intentions to take an evening stroll, but the sky was warning that a downpour of rain was approaching. As we sank into our ultra comfy bed with heavenly pillows, there wasn’t a sound to be heard beyond the confines of our accommodations. Two things that I really loved about the room were the ample space and the window overlooking the foliage laden pathway that easily opened to take in the breeze and the sounds of the nearby ocean.

By sunrise, Simón was up and out for his bike ride down Collins, where he ended up at an outdoor gym on the beach. I guess he worked off last night’s decadence. We grabbed a shower and headed poolside. Of course, I took my Instagram worthy shots as we meandered down the walk and at the beachside cabanas. I even braved a ride down the boardwalk on the electric bike. Before we knew it, our Sleepover had ended, and we had experienced so much. We checked out, had breakfast at the Social Club and headed back into the fray. This time, relaxed and feeling a bit more French.

The next time we return, it’s definitely the following on my checklist: 1) a stay in the suite with the private balcony and walk-in closet that could hold its own bed, 2) a K’Alma Spa cabana experience, 3) secure one of the old-fashioned, pedal yourself bikes that the Kimpton Surfcomber offers, and 4) stay at least a couple nights! When do you want us to book?

www.surfcomber.com

Swellegant Stays: QT Sydney – Sydney, Australia

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QT Sydney is as much a theatrical experience as it is a hotel stay. Stepping into the foyer of the heritage-listed Gowings and State Theatre buildings on Sydney’s Market Street, the original Art Deco and Gothic architecture has been beautifully restored and it feels like you are on the cusp of a spectacular night of entertainment. In fact, you don’t have to go anywhere: staying at QT Sydney you are guaranteed a great night in.

The drama of the stage spreads across the hotel from the public areas to the guest rooms: do keep an eye out for the vintage theater costumes on display. At Parlour, where Kir Royale, steak hache with pomme frites, and coffee creme brulee are all on the menu, there is more than just a nod to Paris, while Gowings takes its creation direction from the glamor and nostalgia of New York. The lavish QTea High Tea has been masterminded by pâtissier Adriano Zumbo, and it is appropriately decadent that there are more Champagnes on the menu than teas! Combine one of these culinary experiences with the Femme Fatale Facial or The Plush Prince(ss) package in spaQ and you will already have done the groundwork for an unforgettable weekend.

Bedrooms and suites at QT Sydney are equally luxurious but more contemporary in their design: it seems that Broadway has collided happily with the 21st century. Monochrome walls and linens are complemented by small accents of color, and a combination of large windows, stylish light fittings, and mirrors bring life to the spaces. The amenities in the bathrooms are by cult hair and beauty brand Kevin Murphy, further reason to splash around beneath the rain shower or to soak in the giant tub.

For the ultimate indulgence, book yourself into the QT State Suite. The huge windows and private balcony look out onto the heritage skyline of Sydney’s Central Business District (CBD), tempting you out into the city, but with such a lot of space and a fabulous interior, you will most likely want to make the most of it, invite a friend or two round, and order cocktails from room service. Drink a toast to QT Sydney with an Archie Rose Espresso Martini or a Tequila Tromba Tommy’s Margarita.

www.qthotels.com/sydney-cbd

Exploring Paradise – Unveiling the Allure of Casa Morada in the Florida Keys

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“Like a pearl hidden in an oyster shell, Casa Morada effortlessly captivates with its understated charm and sophistication.”

As I stepped onto the tranquil shores of the Florida Keys, I knew that this tropical escape was going to be something extraordinary. Nestled amid the turquoise waters of Islamorada, Casa Morada beckoned with promises of luxury, relaxation, and a perfect blend of natural beauty and contemporary elegance. In this exclusive luxury travel magazine feature, I invite you to join me on a journey through this hidden gem and discover the allure of Casa Morada.

A Serene Oasis of Sophistication:

Like a pearl hidden in an oyster shell, Casa Morada effortlessly captivates with its understated charm and sophistication. The moment I entered the property, I was greeted by a warm and friendly staff, making me feel right at home. The boutique hotel’s design embraces the laid-back vibe of the Keys, seamlessly blending modern architecture with touches of tropical decor. Rustic wooden elements, breezy open spaces, and lush greenery create an inviting ambiance, reflecting the essence of paradise.

Breathtaking Accommodations:

Casa Morada boasts 16 exquisite suites, each offering a unique and unparalleled experience. From the moment I stepped into my private oasis, I was embraced by a sense of tranquility. The suite’s tasteful design, featuring a harmonious blend of natural materials and contemporary furnishings, instantly put me at ease. As I opened the sliding doors, a private terrace with stunning ocean views awaited, inviting me to revel in the soothing sound of lapping waves and balmy sea breeze.

A Gastronomic Delight:

The culinary journey at Casa Morada is nothing short of divine, at the hotel’s Island Oasis Cabana Bar. Whether it was savoring fresh seafood caught that very morning or indulging in gourmet dishes influenced by local flavors; dining under swaying palm trees with my feet nestled in the sand, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the Keys.

Relaxation and Rejuvenation:

If relaxation were an art form, Casa Morada would be its masterpiece. With an adults-only policy, the hotel ensures an atmosphere of serenity and privacy. I spent my days basking in the sun beside the infinity pool, where time seemed to stand still. For those seeking ultimate pampering, the on-site spa offered an array of indulgent treatments inspired by the ocean’s healing powers. As the skilled therapists worked their magic, I drifted into a state of pure bliss, feeling the weight of the world lift from my shoulders.

The Key to Adventure:

Beyond the confines of this idyllic retreat, the Florida Keys are a playground for adventure seekers. Casa Morada offers a range of water activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling, all easily accessible from the hotel’s private beach. Exploring the diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs left me in awe of nature’s wonders.

A Sunset to Remember:

As the day waned, I headed to the Sunset Terrace to witness a spectacle that will forever be etched in my memory. The golden orb of the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of pink, orange, and purple. With a chilled glass of champagne in hand, I toasted to life’s simple joys and marveled at the beauty of this tropical paradise.

Casa Morada, a secluded haven in the heart of the Florida Keys, exceeded all my expectations. From its serene ambiance to its exceptional service and unforgettable experiences, this luxury retreat embraces the very essence of paradise. If you seek an escape from the ordinary, where relaxation meets adventure and nature’s wonders enchant the soul, then Casa Morada is your ultimate destination. Embrace the allure of this hidden gem, and you will leave with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

www.casamorada.com

Swanky Sips: Hunter Valley, New South Wales

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I am a sucker for wine tours and seek them out in many of the destinations I visit, but the Hunter Valley in New South Wales seems particularly well suited to this kind of tourism. The area is close to Sydney, a two-hour drive away, so locals can pop up for the weekend, but at the same time there is enough to see and do to warrant traveling here from further afield. None of the vineyards are particularly large, and they are situated close enough together that you can easily cycle between them, visiting three or four different properties in a day. In that respect, the Hunter Valley feels a little like California’s Napa, but with added kangaroos.

My guides, Will and Liam, have spent quite a bit of the past two years working their way through the Hunter’s wineries, so I felt that I was in safe (or at least experienced) hands. As we drove out from Sydney in a roaring Toyota Hilux, the dark clouds threatened rain, despite it being the end of the Australian summer. I didn’t grumble too much, though: the grape vines were no doubt in need of a deluge, and their needs must come first.

We pulled up at Spicers Guesthouse and I did a double take. I am familiar with this style of colonial architecture from South Africa and Zimbabwe, but this was the first time I’d seen it in Australia. For good or bad, the British Empire spread its tentacles pretty much everywhere, so I shouldn’t have been surprised. Here were the perfectly manicured lawns surrounding a classic white farmhouse, and shady verandas where you could sit with a pot of tea enjoying the faint waft of breeze. Indoors, there are stone walls and open fireplaces where you can no doubt sit cozily, watching the dancing flames on a cold winter evening. The couches are well stuffed, interesting books are scattered on tables and shelves, and the ambience is best described as convivial. It’s a country house, a country club, an idyllic country retreat.

At Will and Liam’s insistence, we started our vineyard tour at Tyrrell’s, which conveniently is located less than five minutes away from the hotel. Tyrrell’s is one of the oldest wine companies in Australia, owned by the same family since 1858. Edward Tyrrell settled here from England, buying 320 acres of land in the Hunter Valley. His original ironbark hut still stands on the property. Around it he planted Semillon and Shiraz vines. 160 years on, Bruce Tyrrell is the Managing Director, and his three children, Jane, John, and Christopher, all still work for the business. You could say that winemaking is in their blood, but their passion for their products is such that it is probably more accurate to say that it is in their hearts.

Tyrrell’s welcomes wine lovers through their cellar door every day of the week, but it is so popular that you need to book in advance. The purpose built tasting room has a clean, modern aesthetic so your attention remains focused on the wine, not the decor. The introductory level tasting packages, Tyrrell’s Tasting and the Single Vineyard Experience, are fine way to get a first sip of what Tyrrell’s can offer, but if you have a more demanding palate and really know your wines, book in for the Vat 1 Vertical Experience instead. It focuses on Tyrrell’s Vat 1 Semillon, one of the Hunter Valley’s most iconic wines.

From Tyrrell’s we continued on to see Andrew Thomas, a man the Sydney Morning Herald declared to be “a shining light in the Hunter Valley.” Thomas Wines are renowned for their complex and refined Semillon but also a really classy Shiraz. With The Journey tasting you can mix and match as many as 15 wines from the wine list, shaping the session to your tastes or, as we did, letting the sommelier choose so that you can discover something new. Make sure you ask for the Braemore Semillon and Kiss Shiraz, two of Thomas’ flagship wines, and also the 2013 Elenay Shiraz, which was re-released from the cellars in small quantities in 2023.

I have mentioned Semilon quite a bit, because it really is the signature grape of the Hunter Valley. The species is native to Bordeaux in France, and at one stage it was probably the most planted grape variety in the world, dominating the vineyards of Australia and South Africa. The vines do well in warm climates, in part because they are fairly disease resistant, and on long, sunny days the fat, white grapes gain a pinkish hue. When it is young, Semillon wine has a fresh, almost citrusy taste and goes well with seafood, but if you are patient enough to wait for five to 10 years, it develops into something altogether richer. A bottle such as Thomas WInes’ 2016 Cellar Reserve Braemore has a taste reminiscent of roasted cashew nuts, or even buttered toast!

Though we had snacked throughout the tastings, we returned to Spicers Guesthouse for dinner. The menu at the hotel’s restaurant, éRemo, claims to be a celebration of Italian cuisine, but although Italy may have inspired Head Chef Jayden Casinelli, it really offers a prime opportunity to try contemporary Australian fine dining. And that’s a wonderful thing, because the fresh, seasonal produce in this part of the world is divine. Jayden and his team do masterful things with their ingredients, combining flavors and techniques in the most unexpected ways. Browsing through the a la carte menu you will be hard pushed to choose: should you start with the charred grapes with gorgonzola or the Wagyu bresaola with capers and truffle mayonnaise? And when it comes to main courses, should it be the market fish with saffron fennel, or the rib eye filet steak accompanied by celeriac remoulade and truffle pecorino? My only recommendation when faced with such complex quandaries is that you dine with two or more friends, all order something different, and are generous enough to share. Be sure to look at the wine list, too: it embodies the best of the Hunter Valley, and many of the wines are available by the glass so you can try something new with every course. When you do finally leave the table, there is no need to order a cab: your guest room will be waiting for you a few minutes’ walk away.

www.spicersretreats.com

A Night of Sophistication: Bank & Bourbon at Loews Hotel, Philadelphia

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Introduction:

In the heart of historic Philadelphia, where cobblestone streets whisper tales of a bygone era, lies a modern haven of indulgence and refinement. Welcome to Bank & Bourbon, the crown jewel of the Loews Hotel, where a night of sophistication awaits. From the moment you step through the grand entrance, you’re transported into a world of opulence and charm, ready to savor the pleasures of bourbon tasting and artisanal cocktail craftsmanship.

A Taste of Tradition:

The Bourbon Tasting Experience

Bank & Bourbon’s dedication to the art of whiskey is evident in every detail of their bourbon tasting experience. As you settle into the sumptuous surroundings of the elegant lounge, a flight of carefully curated bourbons beckons, each one a testament to the rich heritage and craftsmanship of this revered spirit.

Expert sommeliers guide you through the tasting, revealing the nuances of flavor, aroma, and age that distinguish each selection. From the robust notes of charred oak and caramel in a matured single barrel bourbon to the gentle spice of a small-batch variety, your palate embarks on a journey of discovery.

Bourbon Bliss: Signature Cocktails to Savor

Having explored the depths of bourbon’s character, it’s time to revel in the artistry of Bank & Bourbon’s mixologists. The cocktail menu is a symphony of creativity, seamlessly fusing the allure of bourbon with fresh ingredients and innovative techniques. Here are two must-try bourbon-based concoctions that embody the essence of Bank & Bourbon:

PHILADELPHIA, PA - MARCH 24,25, 2014: Loews Philadelphia Hotel. Newly renovated lobby, expanded lobby, restaurant, bar and exterior. CREDIT: Photography by Bruce Buck.

Cobblestone Old Fashioned

2 oz small-batch bourbon
1/2 oz demerara syrup
2 dashes aromatic bitters
Orange peel, for garnish

Method: In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, demerara syrup, and bitters. Add ice and stir until well-chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink, then garnish with the peel.

Velvet Rye Sour

1 1/2 oz rye whiskey
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz maple syrup
1/2 oz amaretto liqueur
Egg white
Angostura bitters, for garnish

Method: In a shaker, combine rye whiskey, lemon juice, maple syrup, amaretto, and egg white. Dry shake (without ice) vigorously to emulsify the egg white. Add ice and shake again. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a few dashes of Angostura bitters on the foam.

A Culinary Odyssey:

Fine Dining Amidst Elegance

To complement your libations, Bank & Bourbon offers a delectable menu of modern American cuisine. Savor dishes crafted with the finest locally sourced ingredients, thoughtfully paired with your chosen bourbons. Whether you indulge in a succulent dry-aged steak or a delicate seafood creation, each bite is an invitation to indulge in the exquisite.

Conclusion:

A night out at Bank & Bourbon at the Loews Hotel in Philadelphia is an enchanting soiree that celebrates the art of bourbon and the pursuit of refined pleasures. From the captivating bourbon tasting experience to the masterful cocktails and divine cuisine, every moment spent within these walls is an affirmation of luxury and taste. Raise your glass, and let Bank & Bourbon transport you to an era of timeless sophistication and indulgence.

A Luxurious Weekend Escape at Playa Largo Resort: Where Tranquility Meets Exquisite Adventures

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Nestled in the heart of captivating Key Largo, Playa Largo Resort emerges as a hidden sanctuary of opulence and tranquility, beckoning to discerning travelers like myself seeking a weekend retreat that seamlessly blends luxury and nature. Join me as we embark on an immersive journey through a realm where indulgence and the beauty of the natural world intertwine harmoniously.

Arrival in Key Largo:

As the sun painted the sky with its golden hues, I arrived at the doorstep of Playa Largo Resort. Welcomed by the warm hospitality of the staff, I felt an immediate sense of comfort. A glass of chilled champagne awaited me, a prelude to the exquisite experiences that awaited.

The Beach House – My Private Oasis:

Escorted to The Beach House, my exclusive abode for the weekend, I stepped into a realm of pure opulence. Perched on the shoreline, this private villa radiated tranquility. The interiors exuded lavishness, framing breathtaking panoramic ocean views. Stepping onto the terrace, I was greeted by a private pool, inviting me to lose myself in the beauty of the surroundings. Floating in this water while gazing out at the Florida Bay was to be one of my favorite activities. The three bedroom private villa was a sanctuary. Replete with a gourmet kitchen, my choices for dining were far from limited. One evening, I had the chef come over and treat me to a five course meal paired with wines throughout, of course. Gastronomic adventures became a highlight of my escape. The expertise of a world-class private chef brought forth culinary masterpieces tailored to my preferences, all within the embrace of The Beach House. From succulent local seafood to international delicacies, each dish was a testament to the artistry of flavor. Then just add water…The only dinner on property that rivaled that experience is called the water table. This is a sunset dinner where the entire meal is served in the bay itself. The table and chairs are anchored in the water, deep enough for your toes to be cooled by the water and passing fish can graze against your swaying feet. All while the sun slips beyond the horizon. It’s a treat for all of the senses to dine at the water table.

Mastery of Mixology:

Intrigued by the art of mixology, I eagerly delved into mixology classes led by skilled bartenders. Set against the backdrop of an elegantly adorned lounge, I unraveled the secrets of crafting signature cocktails. With every sip of my own creations, I embarked on a delightful journey of taste and creativity. Upon returning home, I had to try a few of the cocktails on my unassuming friends and family. The results were pure bartender fantasies fulfilled.

Harmony with Nature:

Immersing myself in the serenity of Playa Largo Resort, I embraced nature’s offerings wholeheartedly. A stand-up paddleboarding excursion allowed me to glide across serene waters, basking in the gentle embrace of the ocean. The sight of graceful manatees drifting by, lent an enchanting touch to an already magical experience.

Sailing into Serenity:

An exhilarating catamaran sailing expedition awaited, promising an exploration of the captivating coastline. Guided by an experienced captain, I sailed through azure waters, the sea breeze kissing my skin. The rhythmic lull of waves against the catamaran and the vast expanse of the ocean painted a picture of serenity and freedom.

A Day of Divine Pleasures:

My weekend retreat reached its zenith with an unforgettable snorkeling trip courtesy of Islander Girl Snorkel. Beneath the crystal-clear waters, I encountered a mesmerizing underwater world teeming with vibrant marine life. Following this aquatic adventure, I indulged in a divine lunch at Marker 88 in Islamorada, where delectable flavors were enhanced by the stunning oceanfront setting.

Playa Largo Resort emerged as my haven of luxury and nature, where every moment was a celebration of opulence and serenity. From awe-inspiring snorkeling escapades to savoring gourmet marvels and mastering the art of mixology, my journey encompassed the very essence of blissful indulgence. As I bid adieu to this paradise, my heart swelled with cherished memories, eagerly awaiting the day I would return to Playa Largo Resort, a realm where elegance intertwines seamlessly with the beauty of the natural world.

www.playalargoresort.com

Swellegant Stays: Fingal Leith, Scotland

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Fingal is an exquisite 22 cabin boutique hotel. This intriguing vessel greets guests with a red carpet experience from the moment they round the bow that juts out of the water onto the streets of Edinburgh from its permanent berth at the historic Port of Leith.

This boat was used for 37 years to secure, alter, maintain, and outfit lighthouses around the entire coastline of Scotland. There is something fairytale-esque about this boat turned luxury floating hotel. We recognized that from the moment we stepped aboard. Through the heavy wooden door adorned with brass kickplate, we submerged ourselves into the nautical world that is this stately yet whimsical escape. After spending more than a week in Scotland’s northern Highlands, exploring and visiting one particular lighthouse, we boarded Fingal, not wanting to know too much beforehand because we love the element of surprise and newness when discovering hotels and destinations. The fairydust was sprinkled as soon as we were handed our cabin keys. Of all the lighthouses around Scotland, we were to be staying in the cabin named Neist Point. This is the lighthouse, a few days prior to coming aboard, we hiked to and explored. Finding out that our stateroom is also named Neist Point felt like kismet. Honestly, being in Scotland tends to do that to you. The whole country feels sort of magical.

The cabins on this vessel are outfitted with cabinetry upholstered in soft leather, king beds floating on burled wood bases, tactile senses fully engaged as you find yourself gazing out of the large round windows (we did not want to call them portholes since those seem de rigueur and tiny) onto the streets of Edinburgh’s waterfront. The boat has its own sense of place. As you drift from the stateroom to the beautifully tiled spacious bathroom, do not be surprised if your fingers run their way across the wallpaper to satisfy the need to take in every morsel of the space with all of your senses. Go ahead, take it all in. For us, this was all a part of the experience. As grand and luxe as she is, Fingal feels inviting, as though she is welcoming you home. Like a beacon in the dark.

The cabins on this vessel are outfitted with cabinetry upholstered in soft leather, king beds floating on burled wood bases, tactile senses fully engaged as you find yourself gazing out of the large round windows (we did not want to call them portholes since those seem de rigueur and tiny) onto the streets of Edinburgh’s waterfront. The boat has its own sense of place. As you drift from the stateroom to the beautifully tiled spacious bathroom, do not be surprised if your fingers run their way across the wallpaper to satisfy the need to take in every morsel of the space with all of your senses. Go ahead, take it all in. For us, this was all a part of the experience. As grand and luxe as she is, Fingal feels inviting, as though she is welcoming you home. Like a beacon in the dark.

Renewed and refreshed, take a walk through the engine room. The designers have given guests the opportunity to see the former inner workings of Fingal as they stroll down another red carpet; the engines are neatly and quietly tucked behind plexiglass. We took this route up to cocktails on the aft deck before heading in to dinner at The Lighthouse Restaurant and Bar. Personal favorite on their stellar cocktail menu is the Yard No. 140. It was so good that we went back home with the recipe and made our own pineapple wine, just to recreate this drink.

She was based out of Oban (yes, the one famous for its delicious scotch) to service the numerous lighthouses around the country. Occasionally requested to accompany the royal yacht Britannia during official visits. Decommissioned in 1999 and the new vessel Pole Star was commissioned to replace her. However, lighthouses changed, and they became less manual and more operated remotely versus being inhabited, so the use of these vessels today has diminished, but their glow has not dimmed. You feel the history and nostalgia wash over you while onboard.

A luxury floating hotel that is permanently berthed on the vibrant waterfront in Edinburgh’s Leith. This is a hotel with all the glamor and style of a superyacht with old world elegance and charm. For the ultimate in unique stays, look here.

Cocktail menu for your enjoyment, but nothing beats having one onboard!

www.fingal.co.uk

www.pobhotels.com

Swanky RetreatsBeyond the Beach