Smithsonian Journeys – Easter Island

Smithsonian Journeys, which is the Smithsonian Institution’s own travel program has just announced an amazing tour.

Now you can travel around the world in style in your own private jet. This luxury tour is titled, “Around the World by Private Jet.”

This once in a lifetime opportunity includes an unforgettable 22-day private jet adventure.

Visit five continents, nine different countries and see 14 world heritage sites. Tour dates are from November 1-22, 2011.

Several destination stops include Machu Picchu, Easter Island, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, India’s Taj Mahal, the Serengeti and mystical Morocco.

This is the perfect chance to experience diverse cultures and witness some of the world’s most amazing natural wonders-all in a single journey.

Travelers will fly in luxury aboard a new private Boeing 757 jet. The chartered jet is specially configured to generously accommodate 78 VIP-style seats instead of just the standard 233 seats.

Smithsonian Journeys has lined up several experts to accompany the tour including James Karr. Karr is an ecologist with a specialty in conservation biology and environmental policy who served as deputy director of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.

In addition, Jack Daulton is a noted scholar on the art and architecture of Asia and Africa as well as international law relating to the preservation and conservation of the world’s cultural heritage.

Pricing for the “Around the World by Private Jet” is $62,950 per person.

The tour cost includes round-trip private jet travel from Orlando, Fla., luxury accommodations, all meals, ground transportation, excursions and activities, welcome reception, lectures by experts, on-board physician, baggage handling, gratuities and emergency evacuation insurance.

To learn additional information about this Smithsonian Journeys tour, plus other private jet expeditions offered in 2011 and 2012, please call 1 (877) 338-8687 or visit http://www.SmithsonianJourneys.org/privateair.

The luxury May Fair Hotel is a legendary five star hotel with a glamorous past.

The celebrated hotel’s 406 guest rooms bring an eclectic luxury style to the historic West End hotel that first opened in 1927 with King George V and Queen Mary in attendance.

May Fair Hotel also offers guests twelve of London’s most memorable hotel suites, a discreet spa, a fine-dining restaurant and the quintessential London Casino.

Set in the heart of London, The May Fair hotel is within close proximity to the city’s best shopping districts on Piccadilly and Bond Street; Knightsbridge, Green Park and Buckingham Palace.

From Fendi furnishings; Baccarat chandeliers, including the largest Baccarat chandelier in Europe; the largest private theater in London; to 12 new spacious signature suites, and the Asian-inspired May Fair Spa, The May Fair is leading a renaissance of luxury hotels in London.

For more information, visit: http://www.themayfairhotel.co.uk/

Traveling at a top speed of 50 mph, Las Vegas Monorail consists of nine trains that run on a single rail sitting about 20 feet above ground in most areas. The rail’s highest point reaches around 70 feet above the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The Las Vegas Monorail was privately funded, and the $650 million public transportation system opened in July of 2004. It has the distinction of being the first privately-financed transit system built in the U.S.A. since World War II.

The Las Vegas Monorail System is a 3.9 mile dual-beam line that connects the MGM Grand with the Sahara Hotel Casino. Stations are located along the route including: Bally’s/Paris, Flamingo Hilton, Harrah’s/Imperial Palace, the Las Vegas Hilton and lastly, the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Cost to ride the Monorail: One-way trip is $5; one-day unlimited access is $12, and a three-day pass is $28

The Las Vegas Monorail runs Monday – Thursday, 7 a.m. – 2 a.m. and Friday – Sunday, 7 a.m. – 3 a.m.

For more information:  Click Here

The Hotel Banke is the ideal location to enjoy Paris – the City of Lights – in France.

The Hotel Banke is located in the 9th arrondissement, in Paris’ Opera area on Rue La Fayette. The hotel is in the heart of the Grands Boulevards quarter, close to the Place Vendôme and just ten minutes from the Louvre.

The Hotel Banke has been billed as “an exciting blend of the historic and the avant-garde of fabulous Paris, and just a short walk from the magnificent Place Vendôme and Rue Faubourg Saint-Honoré.

The hotel is housed in the former headquarters of CCF Bank (a classic Belle Époque building).

The Hotel Banke is part of the Derby Hotels Collection, and has been beautifully restored for its new life as an urban resort.

The Banke has 93 rooms, some with panoramic views of amazing Sacré Cœur. For a small boutique hotel, the facilities seem quite expansive, including: two restaurants (one of which is gastronomic), a night club, a spa zone and gym, and art collection displayed on every floor of the building, showcasing art from all cultures and historic periods.

Fully soundproofed, hotel guest rooms are outfitted with all the latest technology: LCD television with 250 satellite channels, wi-fi, and individual air-conditioning and temp controls.

Hotel Banke guests can also take advantage of 24-hour room service, late breakfast served until 1 p.m. in the bar, and limo service around town.

Courtesy of: Bellagio Las Vegas

Once again, MGM Resorts International (http://www.mgmresorts.com/) continues to receive industry accolades for their luxury Las Vegas properties.

MGM Resorts International recently received 28 esteemed AAA Four and Five Diamond Awards for its luxury resorts and fine restaurants. These awards continues to solidify the company’s position among the world’s most elite.

The company was the recipient of seven prestigious AAA Five Diamond Awards, including two resorts at CityCenter which opened their doors less than a year ago.

“The AAA awards are the gold standard by which all resorts and restaurants are measured, providing a trusted source to help travelers determine where to stay and dine,” said Corey Sanders, Chief Operating Officer of MGM Resorts International. “We are honored to receive 28 Four and Five Diamond Awards, acknowledging our company’s continued commitment to excellence and affirming the experience guests can expect to enjoy at these resorts and restaurants.”

The impeccable service, accommodations and fine dining at CityCenter’s ARIA Resort & Casino and Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas have earned both properties Five Diamonds, an exceptional feat only accomplished by a small group of distinguished hotels, and of these, only a select few received the honor within the first year of operation. In addition, Sage at ARIA was named CityCenter’s first Four Diamond restaurant.

Bobby Baldwin, CityCenter’s President and CEO, said, “From inception to operation, our goal with CityCenter was to create a resort destination that provides guests with services and amenities unmatched in the world. To receive the highest honor in the industry with the AAA Five Diamond Award is a reflection of our commitment to this promise and to delivering unforgettable experiences for each guest from arrival to departure.”

Bellagio continues to lead Las Vegas luxury resorts becoming the first hotel and casino in the city to receive its tenth consecutive AAA Five Diamond Award. In addition, Julian Serrano’s renowned restaurant, Picasso, has also been awarded its tenth straight AAA Five Diamond Award and Le Cirque received the distinction for the eighth consecutive year. The honors, once again, make Bellagio the only hotel in the United States to be home to two AAA Five Diamond restaurants. Further adding to its dining accolades, Bellagio’s Jasmine, MICHAEL MINA, Sensi and Prime Steakhouse all earned the AAA Four Diamond Award.

For the fifth consecutive year, AAA has awarded SKYLOFTS and Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand the Five Diamond Award for extraordinary service and decadent cuisine. Additionally, MGM Grand, The Signature at MGM Grand, Craftsteak, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, Nobhill Tavern, Pearl and Seablue have all earned the esteemed Four Diamond Award.

Impressively, Mandalay Bay, THEhotel at Mandalay Bay, The Mirage and Monte Carlo also received the respected Four Diamond Award, a testament to the properties’ commitment to quality service and the guest experience. Adding to MGM Resorts International’s award catalog, Aureole, Fleur de Lys, miX and STRIPSTEAK at Mandalay Bay and Andre’s at Monte Carlo also received this coveted distinction.

Michael Geeser, AAA Nevada spokesperson, was quoted, “Once again, MGM Resorts International has set itself apart with its exquisite restaurants and resort hotels that are known for the highest quality and service.”

Chang’s Beach is another terrific snorkeling spot in Maui., is just south of Po’olenalena Beach. Because of this location, it really offers the same snorkeling grounds, just accessed from the south side of the rocky point, instead of the north side.

This park beach is located near Kalama Park and is favored by local residents. It is well known to have great surfing, when the waves are really pounding.

Actually, Chang’s Beach is rather small. Depending at the tide level, the beach can go away completely. Because of this, you may want to snorkel this from the Po’olenalena side because the beach is much better, and there are showers there.

That double take you did spotting a huge limo in Vegas may be justified. The “Midnight Rider” is the world’s largest and grandest limousine around.

In fact, Midnight Rider is a traveling luxury ground vehicle, cruising Southern California and Las Vegas with an 1,800 watt Sony surround sound in each of her three lounges, large screen televisions, a full bar, two bartenders and yes, a bathroom! Sweet.

Representative of the luxury days of railroad travel, she is classified as a “Tractor-Trailer Limousine”, and is the only one ever built. The air-ride suspension makes for a ride so comfortable, it allows you to stand up and move from lounge to lounge, mingling and partying with your group.

Photo: Elizabeth R. Mitchell

Enjoy a taste of Paris at the Rue de la Paix. The Rue de la Paix shopping promenade comprises numerous exciting shops.

The Paris Hotel & Casino also has a gift and convenience store. If you’re seeking superlative shopping, the hotel’s superb location puts you close to some of the finest shopping adventures in the world.

Hand in hand, you can stroll down the cobblestone sidewalks of the Rue de la Paix shopping district. The Rue de la Paix, a mini replica of Paris France’s famous shopping district, is a shopping promenade that comprises numerous exciting shops.

You’ll find an array of authentic French boutiques, including a garden shop, wine and cheese shop, and high-end clothing stores.

RMS Titanic coal – $500,000

If you are looking for one of the most expensive gifts found on the famous Las Vegas Strip, then stop in the Luxor Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas.

The Luxor Hotel & Casino is hosting the incredible Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition and you can purchase the half million dollar, 55 lb piece of coal salvaged from the Titanic – Ship of Dreams.

Can’t afford to drop $500,000 on a chunk of coal? Well you can also buy smaller, authentic pieces of coal for only $25 and $50.

These coal keepsakes were part of the 5,892 tons of coal loaded onboard Titanic when it left England almost a century ago and is the only artifact that can be sold to the public.

The Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at the Luxor is an amazing 25,000-square-foot exhibit that features many items from the Titanic.

A small example of items on display include: the ship’s whistles, passenger luggage, floor tiles from the first-class smoking room, a window frame from the Verandah Cafe and an unopened bottle of champagne with a 1900 vintage.

Other items found at the exhibit are: a piece of Titanic’s hull, a full-scale re-creation of the Grand Staircase, in addition to a newly expanded outer Promenade Deck, complete with the frigid temperatures felt on that fateful April night.

If something that sparkles is more appealing, walk away from The Exhibition wearing a stunning replica of the 15 inch filigree necklace.

How about a replica of the the original necklace, that was hand constructed of platinum and set with small diamonds? This stunning piece of jewelry was one of the many recovered pieces of jewelry that Titanic’s first-class ladies brought to wear in the evening while at sea.

For only $20 , you can buy a beautiful replica of the “Heart of the Ocean” necklace which was made famous in the James Cameron film “Titanic.”

Enjoy the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at the Luxor, view historical artifacts and learn all about the the mighty RMS Titanic.

Find the perfect gift at the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition retail shop, located  inside Luxor Hotel & Casino or online at TheTitanicStore.com.

Courtesy of: Paradise Taveuni

Fiji is a tropical wonder in the Pacific Ocean. The island allure and native friendly smiles enhance the natural beauty of this tropical paradise.

The beautiful beaches, blue-green lagoons and swaying palm trees will seduce you and the local Fijians will greet and embrace you as a friend.

Whether it’s romance, soft adventure or a family holiday you’re looking for, there’s an array of quality mainland and island accommodation to suit all your travel tastes and budgets.

Fiji was known for a long time, that it’s a perfect place for couples to enjoy a trip of a lifetime. But the situation quickly changes when you book a vacation with Paradise Taveuni resort. Book a five or ten night stay there, and you’re signing a contract with happiness. As a bonus, you will carry home memories that you will both enjoy until you come back next year.

Staying in the new bures (Fijian houses) is a great experience on its own because of the cozy and intimate atmosphere. If you are staying in a water front bure, then enjoy a relaxing sunset while sipping a well blended cocktail.

Try a four wheel drive excursion and explore the surroundings through a guided tour. If you are looking for more excitement then go to the deep blue water.

Take a free shore scuba diving lesson. If you like it, then go ahead and sign up for a full course. Being underwater watching these beautiful corals, clams and various types of fish is an exhilarating experience that you do not want to miss. Imagine scuba diving with your partner and the number of memorable stories that you will keep telling forever.

Enjoy a short snorkel where you can get the essence of diving with a hint of what you can see under water. More adrenaline pumping activities like jet skiing and speed boats are available.

Couples can enjoy an outdoor shower under the stars in your own garden or maybe go to the abandoned beach and enjoy hours of privacy on this marvelous beach. It is truly a perfect choice for couples of all ages. Enjoy a full day of fun in perfect scenery and full privacy.

There’s nothing better than a pampering massage session. You can take a full body massage session with your partner including aromatherapy. It is the perfect way to end a vacation.

For more information regarding Paradise Taveuni Resort in Fiji, talk to our luxury travel specialists.

Near the reception area at the luxurious Bellagio Resort in Las Vegas, the Via Fiore houses a collection of housewares, mid-priced clothing stores, a newsstand, and a Bellagio logo shop.

Like beautiful gems thoughtfully placed in their destined settings, the shops of Via Fiore gracefully outline the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens.

Below is a listing of the stores:

Dale Chihuly:
Dale Chihuly pioneered a demanding new art form blending performance art, sculpture and environments into creations of spectacular and colorful works.

Essentials:
Bellagio logo apparel, accessories, gifts, and souvenirs.

Giardini Garden Store:
Offering a wide array of garden-oriented gifts and decorative items for the home and garden.

Newsstand:
Logo items, magazines, newspapers, refreshments, sundries, wine, and wine accessories.