Bellagio Pool

It’s barely Spring but the sizzling hot, summer pool scene in Las Vegas is already heating up fast.

There’s no better place to be than enjoying the summer sun and non-stop fun in Sin City – Las Vegas.

It doesn’t matter whether you are a sun-lover looking for the best pulsating poolside parties or just want to getaway from the summer heat with quiet, cooling dips, the Las Vegas options are truly endless.

You can choose from a beachside casino, ultra VIP cabanas, celebrity-packed weekend events, or even European adults-only retreats. The Vegas pool scene is definitely the place to see and be seen.

We’ve put together a list of the hottest places to stay cool in Las Vegas:

One-Stop Entertainment Central
The world-famous Mandalay Bay Beach is the ideal one-stop entertainment venue. Not only does it have a sand-and-surf beach, a lazy river ride and a jogging track, it also features the popular Beach Concert Series. Beach-goers can enjoy a superb lineup of music artists serenading guests from a one-of-the-kind stage above the beach or try their luck at blackjack in the climate-controlled Beachside Casino.

High-Energy Daylife
As the adults-only mecca for discerning partygoers, WET REPUBLIC at MGM Grand redefines poolside entertainment by combining Las Vegas’ exclusive nightlife vibe with extravagant pool features such as state-of-the-art underwater speakers, exclusive VIP Bungalows and hip party cabanas. With celebrities and the hottest entertainers headlining weekly events, guests are sure to enjoy a dip in the Strip’s first-ever saltwater pools and dance the day away to pulsing DJ beats.

Wet Republic pool

Within the seclusion of towering palms at LIQUID Pool Lounge at ARIA, guests can refuel with Executive Chef Brian Massie’s delectable poolside offerings such as Mahi Mahi Tacos and Coconut Shrimp with Mango Jalapeno Salsa. Enjoy electrifying music spun by world-class DJs and lounge by the luxury pools for a cooling respite from the summer sun.

Lounge Like a VIP
Surrounded by lush citrus trees, landscape gardens and hand-carved stone fountains, guests will think they are royalty vacationing in Italy as they languish at Bellagio’s five luxury pools. Ask for an in-cabana massage in one of the luxurious cabanas that feature a private dressing area, misting system, iHome and DMX music systems and HD cable television. Nintendo Wii and iPads are also available for the technology-savvy pool-goer.

Vdara Pool & Lounge is the ideal spot for those in search of a true private retreat. While lounging in the Spa Cabanas, guests can enjoy phenomenal views, made-to-order cocktails and gourmet tapas in a serene, smoke-free and cell phone-free setting. Take a step toward the holistic tropical spa experience with Akhassa treatments exclusive to Spa & Salon Vdara.

Come Out on Top
Experience Vegas’ finest poolside pampering at the adults-only, tops-optional Bare Pool Lounge at The Mirage. With ultra VIP services such as chilled cucumbers for the eyes, iced towels rolled in flavored water, frozen fruit skewers and icy popsicles, guests can enjoy the ultimate in relaxation surrounded by DJ-spun music and towering palms.

Overlooking the lush waterfall gardens and sandy beach, Moorea Beach Club at Mandalay Bay continues to lure those looking to experience the stylish side of European sunbathing. Guests can lounge at the infinity pool or choose from a selection of champagne and cocktail-inspired poolside massages at this exclusive hideaway. Opens April 18, 2011.

The Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas is one of the most luxurious hotels that exists in the city. If you can’t afford to stay there, you can always watch their beautiful music fountain shows that are displayed on an eight acre lake that is located in front of the hotel.

The movements of the water respond to the Bellagio Fountain music which varies, causing it to have slow movements and then rapid ones when the music grows more intense. Inspired by the Bellagio Resort in Lake Como Italy, the choreographed water is certainly a sight to see!

This video shows some of the music show and after watching it, it becomes quite clear that this is one of the many reasons why Las Vegas should be the next vacation trip you plan.

Skyvue Las Vegas Super Wheel

Developer Howard Bulloch of Compass Investments has unveiled plans to build an incredible 500-foot tall viewing wheel on the famous Las Vegas Strip

The new wheel will be situated at the south end of the Strip on Las Vegas Boulevard, adjacent to the luxury Mandalay Bay resort.

Skyvue Las Vegas Super Wheel will be part of a 38-acre site and be accompanied by amusement rides and 200,000 square feet of retail, restaurant and entertainment space.

Construction is expected to be completed in 18 months and when done, the Super Wheel will be higher than the London Eye, which attracts about 3.5 million people a year.

Howard Bulloch was quoted, “Skyvue Las Vegas will complement both the hospitality and entertainment industries. This world-class attraction fills a niche in our economic recovery, creating jobs and offering a new and unique entertainment offering for the tourist base.”

The wheel will feature 40 gondolas that can each hold up to 25 passengers. The ride’s developers stated that the gondolas can be rented out for private parties and will include catering and drinks.

Not only will this unique structure dominate the Las Vegas skyline, the the Super Wheel will also offer an unparalleled view of the famous Strip.

The Skyvue Las Vegas Super Wheel won’t be the only giant wheel in Las Vegas. Caesars also has plans to construct a giant Ferris wheel, and like the Super Wheel, is scheduled to open in 2013.

On the Big Island of Hawaii, Hapuna Beach is consistently called America’s most beautiful beach. Hapuna Beach is located in Hapuna Bay, at the north end of the beautiful Kohala Coast.

Hapuna Beach is the largest white sand beach on the island and is unbelievably beautiful. Hapuna Beach is about a half a mile long and 200 feet wide.

The beach faces almost directly towards the west, so you will almost always be treated to amazing sunsets.

There is excellent snorkeling to be found at the south end of the beach along the rocks. There are also some pretty cool lava tubes or cave to explore in the cliff side.

The body surfing’s pretty decent, especially when the wind picks up). Going on a weekday means less crowds and more room to explore on your own.

There’s a snack bar at the park entrance offering basic food choices,  plus chair and umbrella rentals, which help protects you from the tropical sun.

Shade is minimal at the beach, so pay the $10 for two chairs and an umbrella, and enjoy your day. If it’s too windy, find yourself a shady area near the trees in the back.

Kilauea Lighthouse

The impressive Kilauea Lighthouse on the north shore of Kauai, is actually also the northernmost point of the main Hawaiian Islands.

Located on the island of Kauai, the Kilauea lighthouse was built in 1913, and once had the largest lens of it’s kind. The lighthouse helped guide ships across the Pacific Ocean heading to and from the Orient.

The Kilauea lighthouse is now part of a national wildlife sanctuary. Either from the bluff overlook or the lighthouse itself, you will enjoy unforgettable views of the Pacific Ocean, passing whales and a variety of bird species.

Back in the 1970′s, the Kilauea Lighthouse light was finally shut off for the very last time. This iconic Kauai landmark was later replaced by a low-maintenance light beacon. The scenic lighthouse is located on a narrow peninsula and remains one of Kauai’s most popular attractions.

Although Kilauea Lighthouse is one of the most photographed landmarks on all of Kauai, relatively few people actually see it since you must drive through a residential area to reach it.

There is currently a process underway to restore the lighthouse to its original stoic condition.

Nearby is the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, home to a diverse population of nesting seabirds and the only such sanctuary in the islands.

Local lighthouse residents include the red-footed boobies, the Laysan albatross, and the great frigate bird with its mighty 8-foot wingspan.

The country of Greece is certainly one of the most amazing places in the world to visit. Greece is full of excitement, adventure and infinite things to do and see.

Typically known as a country rich in ancient history, Greece will certainly give you the experiences of a life time. Everything about this wonderful place is thrilling, whether it’s the monuments, climate, hotels or amazing food.

Greece offers plenty of quality hotels making your vacation trouble-free and entertaining. Greece offers a fabulous time at its famed beaches, where you can rest and enjoy the warm weather.

For those who enjoy the sun, the Mediterranean climate is ideal for you. The Alpine climate and the Pindus mountain range are a welcome to tourists.

There are many ancient and historical places in this great country to take in. It’s full of great buildings and some brilliant architecture telling the tale of its rich history. You will also be able to see many marble temples here.

In addition to the historical places that Greece is known for, there is so much more to discover. Beaches and some awesome luxury hotels are to name a few. There is an entire world of things to see here.

Greece is not only one of the best places to visit in Europe but it is one of the finest vacation destinations in the whole world. Greece is also popular as a romantic place where couple love to stay, offering rocky shores, attractive seaside, waterfalls, caves, and rivers.

On the top of your destination list, are famous names such as Rhodes, Athens, Santorini, and Mikonos which are the hallmarks of Greece. The Acropolis of Athens, Medieval city of Rhodes, and the Monasteries of Dephni are some of the top examples of Greece’s architectural brilliance.

In addition, other places to visit include: Monastery complex of Aghio Oros, monastery of Aghios Ioannis Theologos, the Cave of the Apocalypse, Pythagoreio and Heraion, Monastery complex of Meteora, the Temple of Epicurean Apollo, and Mystras.

The list of things to see is infinite. Take your time and explore all of Greece. Have a great trip!

Upon reaching the Gran Hotel Bahia Del Duque Resort, you will quickly notice it is like walking into a set from the movies. Buildings that bear a resemblance to castles in colors of lemon, terracotta and pink.

This beautiful hotel is on the island of Tenerife, Canary Islands. A total of 16 acres of tropical gardens that look out over the El Duque beach.

All of the rooms at the Gran Hotel Bahia Del Duque Resort-Adeje have a balcony or patio with a view of either the ocean or the gardens. 40 other villas were designed this year, all with a private garden and pool. Each villa is different from each other. This makes the place seem more like a authentic town that sets gently on the ocean front.

One of the toughest decisions you will make here will probably be where you are going to have your next meal. There are 8 restaurants and 9 bars in the resort itself, including an ice cream parlour.

One might wonder why you would even need to leave this paradise hotel. French and Italian cuisine are plentiful. One of the classy restaurants is the Las Aguas which is run by Michelin star chef, Salvador Gallego.

Even the youngest member of your family will be impressed with their own menus that have a wide variety of food for them to choose from. You also have the option of dining outdoors to view the magnificent ocean or relaxing inside with your breakfast.

The 5 swimming pools at the Gran Hotel Bahia Del Duque Resort-Adeje come together here to make cascades. They are all formed from one level to the next building ponds and rivers. Along with these beautiful swimming pools is a children’s pool.

If you are looking to fish for big game fish, you’ve come to the right spot. Here you can book a game fish excursion for the day.

There are also tennis courts, a gym, billiards, table tennis, darts and more. Golf is another feature offered here with 5 golf courses to choose from with year round warm weather.

For the children you have the playground, a children’s club for 3 to 12 year olds with activities, an afternoon show and a mini disco in the evening. There are children’s menus for them for lunch. The teenager’s club comes with a play station, Wi-Fi and internet.

The excellence of this hotel, its cuisine, and the spectacular views that await you is the perfect place for a luxury holiday in Tenerife and will be etched in your memory for a lifetime.

Photo: Kauai Lagoons Golf Club – Marriott

We’re told that after Kauai Lagoons Golf Club at Kiele was completed in 1987, Nicklaus liked the design so much that he made only one change—adding a back tee to the 207/188/162/126 yard, par three, 13th.

You know this Kauai Lagoons Golf Club hole is famous, and regularly included on the list of Hawaii’s best holes.

Golfers pose on a cliff, simply staring in awe at the formidable task before them — a shot through the void and across a frothing, gaping gulf to a green that, from the blues, looks about as big as a goldfish bowl in a carnival.

The 13th conjures memories of the 16th at Cypress, or the second shot on the 8th at Pebble Beach, which happens to be one of his favorite shots in golf. Perhaps it provided some of his inspiration, here.

Before leaving, look back and appreciate the small green perched on a lava cliff, overlooking a lighthouse and inviting bay filled with golf balls.

Kauai Lagoons Golf Club
3351 Hoolaulea Way
Lihue, Hawaii 96766-1700
Phone: (808) 241-6000 or (800) 634-6400

Courtesy of: Morgan’s Rock

Nestled between the countries of Costa Rica and Honduras lies a hidden gem – Nicaragua.

Nicaragua is a country that is full of wonder, tropical forest, warm seas, an array of flora and fauna, colonial towns and home to one of the largest lakes in Latin America.

But amidst all of this natural beauty, you can find on the Pacific coast a 2000-hectare property and a natural reserve, sits Morgan’s Rock, a member of the Rainforest Alliance and a leader in Eco Tourism.

ORO Travel a Nicaraguan-based operator has partnered with the resort to offer guests an exclusive package “Sampler of Nature’s Essence.”

“Sampler of Nature’s Essence” is the perfect prescription for the relief of the day-to-day combat we face in today’s hectic world. ORO Travel has launched a series of “special interest and cultural packages” they will feature monthly. They decided to kick off its series with the “Sampler of Nature’s Essence” package.

ORO Travel picked Morgan’s Rock because of it special characteristics offering guests: one the most spectacular sunsets in the world, a secluded beautiful beach, spectacular views of the magnificent bay from the bungalows, interaction with diverse wildlife such as monkeys and iguanas and delicious meals with fresh ingredients from the hotel’s own farm.

Morgan’s Rock also offers support to the local community and environment assuring guests that their stay is sustainable.

“Morgan’s Rock is the perfect example of an eco tourism property”, said Pascal Picot, president and founder of ORO Travel. “The hotel relies on its own natural resources creating a sustainable environment and giving back to the communities. They actually do it and don’t just use the words to promote themselves.”

The “Sampler of Natures Essence”’ package is available and bookable through ORO Travel and includes:
– Transfer from Managua Airport to Morgan’s Rock Hacienda & Ecolodge
– Five nights accommodation in a beautiful bungalow with all amenities
– Fresh coffee delivered to the bungalow every morning, daily meals
– All non-alcoholic drinks and local beer
– Nature walks with local English-speaking guides.

Price per person is $1,095 based on two people per room. The package is valid from May 2010- October 31, 2010, with the black out periods of July and August 2010.

For more information or to book please visit www.orotravel.com or call 1-866-9788144. For additional ‘information on Morgan’s Rock please visit www.morgansrock.com.

Aureole in Mandalay Bay

Located in Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, Swan Court at Aureole restaurant is like stepping off a plane and directly into a Manhattan East Side restaurant in New York City.

Swan Court at Aureole could quite possibly be one of the most romantic places to eat, anywhere in Las Vegas.

The exclusive Swan Court at Aureole restaurant offers its guest a private outdoor dining experience, adjacent to a lagoon where beautiful white swans gracefully glide by your table.

Swan Court at Aureole features a menu of delicious seasonal dishes that including artisan dry-aged beef and fresh seafood that reflect Chef Charlie Palmer’s signature progressive American cuisine.

Along with dinner, dining guests can choose and sample from a selection of rare wines from around the world.

The visual trademark of Aureole’s is the stunning four-story wine tower with its very own Wine Angel Stewards. The wine stewards stylishly ascend the tower via a system of electronically activated pulleys to retrieve the bottles of wine. What a magnificent sight!

What better way to finish a wonderful meal than enjoy a tasty dessert. Consider one of the inviting offerings, including a citrus tea-infused crème brûlée, or warm blue cheese-and-poached pear tart with port-wine vinaigrette.

For an extra benefit, be sure to feed the swans or just enjoy time together on the restaurant’s outdoor garden furniture.

No matter the size the your party, Aureole’s private dining rooms can accommodate events ranging from 12 up to 100 guests.

Business Hours:
Sunday – Thursday Dinner: 6:00 – 10:30PM
Friday & Saturday Dinner: 5:30 – 10:30PM
Wine Tower Lounge: 6:00 – 12:00AM

For more information or to make reservations at Aureole, please visit: http://www.aureolelv.com/

On the edge of the upcountry rainforest, you’ll find Piiholo Ranch, in Makawao – Maui Hawaii.

Owned and operated by the Baldwin family, Piiholo is a working cattle ranch that lies in the midst of a native Hawaiian eco-system.

Spread out and ride through emerald green pastures and towering forests with picturesque views of the blue Pacific Ocean.

Rides are offered twice daily with a maximum of six riders each. Larger groups can be accommodated and private rides are available for two riders or more.

With six generations and more than a hundred years of ranching on Maui, the Baldwin family welcomes you with true aloha.