Rojo Lounge, located in the lobby of Palms Place Condo Hotel (located next to the Palms), is what you’d imagine hotel lobbies were like during the Rat Pack days, only updated for the R. Kelly set.

There’s the separate lounge (with a capacity of 75), which is intimate and features a red-lit bar, vinyl booths and bottle service. And then there’s the actual lobby, which ups the capacity of the whole place to more than 200.

I checked this place out for the first time a couple nights ago. Loved it! Jason described it as a high-end, strip-like lounge, just not on the strip. I agree. The layout is great because you can also take your drink out into the main lobby. Lots of couches and cool areas to chill out.

If you’re into celebrity watching insiders tell me this is the hottest spot in town right now. Since many of the condos are owned by celebs, they can often be spotted grabbing a quick beverage at Rojo. This week I’m told Jon Lovitz stopped by as did Vern “Mini Me” Troyer. Okay, maybe they’re not on the top of your “watch list”… but others who reportedly purchased Palms Place condos include, rapper Eminem, Jessica Simpson and Hulk Hogan.

Robert Parekh is the bar manager. Good guy. We chatted with him for a few. They offer many signature drinks, inlcuding one he created called a “Mandarin Mojave”… it tastes like a dreamsicle. Article by: Gerard Ramalho

Rojo Lounge
4381 W. Flamingo Road
Las Vegas, NV 89103
(702) 932-7777

Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong

The much anticipated opening of The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong is finally here.

This new luxury hotel is Shanghai’s second and China’s seventh Ritz-Carlton property. The unique style of this luxury Shanghai  hotel is absolutely amazing.The Ritz-Carlton hotel features a contemporary design with hints of new interpretations of 1930’s Shanghai Art Deco.

The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong will occupy the top 18 floors of the Shanghai ifc South Tower, providing its guest rooms and restaurants amazing views of The Bund – the most intact collection of Art Deco architecture anywhere in the world.

The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong in China features the following luxury amenities:

• 285 well-appointed guestrooms and suites
• Four exceptional restaurants and bar
• 1,700 square meters (18,299 square feet) of high-tech meeting space
• A 1,500 square meter (16,146 square foot) spa and 24-hour fitness studio
• Easy access to the Shanghai New International Expo Center

China has become a top travel destination as people want to explore this ancient country that was closed off to the world for so many years.

The Life of Luxury can assist your travel plans by booking your reservations and making it a memorable trip. Our travel specialists are here to help you all along the way. A strive to provide a VIP experience.

The Nene or Hawaiian Goose, is a medium sized goose. The Nene has a black face and crown with cream-colored cheeks.

The neck is buff colored with black streaks and a dark, narrow ring at the base. The upper portion of the bird’s body is a gray-brown along with lighter coloring on the edges of the feathers. The Nene’s bill, legs, and feet are black and the eyes are dark brown.

The Nene became Hawaii’s state bird in 1957. By that time, the Nene were already bred in captivity as conservationists fought to keep the bird from going into extinction. Their goal was to one day, free the Nene back into the wild, and save the bird species.

The Nene is the sixth most endangered waterfowl species worldwide. The Nene used to live across all of the main Hawaiian islands and their population was estimated as big 25,000 birds.

Sadly by 1952, their numbers diminished to only 30 birds due to hunting and the introduction of predators such as mongooses, pigs, and cats.  The Nenet was listed as an endangered species in 1967.

Due to new laws and a massive Island effort, this special bird now flourishes. They roam freely around the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii where laws still protect them.

The resemblance of the Nene to the Canadian Goose is uncanny. But there is a valid reason for this. Surprisingly, the Nene actually is the Canada goose!

The Nene were not brought to Hawaii, but somehow they managed to make their way all the way to Hawaii. Over several centuries, the Nene have learned to adapt to the much warmer climate.

Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino is a wonderful resort and ideal for those who like a little luxury, a splash of entertainment and a lot of gambling. Located on the main strip you have easy access to most other casinos and shows.

Tropically themed with elegant architecture and lush surroundings, this is the place to see and be seen in the hippest spot in town.

Mandalay Bay offers a high-end room product, superb dining by world-renowned chefs, an array of glamorous nightspots, the best pool in Las Vegas and much, much more.

Mandalay Bay has earned the prestigious Four Diamond Award from AAA recognizing the resort for its exceptional degree of hospitality, service, and attention to detail.When it comes to treating guests with a truly exciting and elegant experience, it doesn’t get any better than Mandalay Bay resort & Casino on the world famous Las Vegas Strip.

Everything from nearly two dozen upscale restaurants and popular entertainment to a sandy beach and two relaxing spas can be found here.

The 11-acre Beach at Mandalay Bay is not your typical Las Vegas Pool. Named the number one beach in Las Vegas for seven years running, you can catch a wave in the famous wave pool, swim in one of four exotic pools or relax with a leisurely float down the lazy river.

With unique flavors and styles, innovative restaurateurs and daring architects Mandalay Bay creates dining experiences that scintillate the senses as well as please the palate.

Signature restaurants include: MIX, restaurant rm, Fleur de Lys, China Grill, STRIPSTEAK, Shanghai Lilly and Trattoria del Lupo, where Wolfgang Puck presents a dining experience that is like a stroll in a small Italian piazza.

Courtesy of: The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas

If you are looking for the ultimate in luxury living on the world famous Las Vegas Strip, then The Residences at Mandarin Oriental – Las Vegas, should be your only choice.

The Residences at Mandarin Oriental – Las Vegas is located in the amazing CityCenter. The CityCenter is located on 67 acres, between the Monte Carlo and Bellagio resorts. Crystals is a spectacular 500,000-square-foot retail and entertainment district that just opened in December.

The Residences at Mandarin Oriental takes up the upper portion of the 47-story Mandarin Oriental tower.

The Residences is the first non-gaming property on the famous Las Vegas Strip and certainly lives up to a high level of luxury status. Buyers can find 225 exclusive residences that include luxurious one-, two- and three- bedroom condo units that range in size from approximately 1,110 up to 4,000 square feet!

Tony Dennis is the Executive vice president of the CityCenter Residential Division, and stated, “Our goal for The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas was to set a new benchmark for luxury living in one of the world’s most spectacular cities.”

The Residences at Mandarin Oriental was designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox, along with residential interior architect Page + Steele.

The contemporary interior was designed by Kay Lang + Associates, as a consultant to AAI Architects, Inc. In addition to the residences, locations designed included: the Residential lobby, Elevator lobbies, Lounge and billiard room, Boardroom, Tenant elevator foyers and tenant corridors, and Spa floor vestibules / transition corridors to hotel.

Courtesy of: The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas

The Residences consists of both the Luxury Collection, as well as the Penthouse Collection. The features and many amenities are simply luxurious. As soon as you enter, you’ll notice the high ceilings that give an openness to the units. The ceiling height ranges between 9’4″ (soffited) and 10’2″ (un-soffited). The expansive picture windows provide not only immense natural light but amazing views of the Las Vegas Strips and surrounding area.

Owners at The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas can choose from three unique finish packages – Majestic Pearl, Sovereign Jade and Imperial Orchid. Residents are provided these interior options to assist with personalizing their own living space.

The stained hardwood flooring brings a rich and sophisticated look to the units. The bedrooms are quite spacious and include separate, roomy his & her walk-in closets.

Courtesy of: The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas

The spa-style bathrooms feature a contemporary free-standing tub, as wells as a walk-in shower. There’s a separate powder room which includes an attractive, custom wood vanity.

The upscale kitchens don’t disappoint. It comes with beautiful European-style cabinetry. You’ll notice designer fixtures plus stylish stainless steel appliances (cooktop, oven and microwave from Thermador). The kitchen includes the hardwood flooring in addition to built-in wine storage. The kitchen counters are made of CaesarStone, a quartz surface. CaesarStone offers stain, scratch, and heat-resistant properties that are the ideal choice for today’s care-free countertops.

Courtesy of: The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas

For those who want to leave the decorating to somebody else, The Residences at Mandarin Oriental offers a turn-key purchase option, which includes your choice of upscale furnishings.

One of the main benefits of owning a unit at the The Residences is you get to enjoy all the amenities of the Mandarin Oriental hotel.

Located on the 23rd floor, Twist is the ultimate in fine dining. Twist is the first U.S. restaurant opened by world-renowned and three-star Michelin Chef Pierre Gagnaire. For wine connoisseurs, Twist features a fabulous selection of approximately 1,800 bottles.

The Mandarin Bar and Lounge is located on the 23rd floor with spectacular views of the Vegas skyline. Mingle with highrollers and with the rich and famous and try one of their amazing cocktails. The Mandarin Bar and Lounge is quickly becoming “the place to be” in Vegas. Enjoy unforgettable Strip views from the bar’s private room called the “Edge”.

Also on the 23rd floor, relax in the spacious Tea Room. High-tea is served between 2:30 – 5:00pm and the tea recipe is custom just for the hotel.

To get pampered, try the incredible dual-level spa which was inspired by 1930s Shanghai. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental is the “ultimate urban oasis” and was developed to reflect the true glamour and cultural fusion of that era.

The spa’s treatment menu features a blend of both Eastern methodologies and Western applications. You can find 17 different treatment rooms, including seven couples’ suites. There are multiple relaxation and water experiences available. Utilize a co-ed Hammam or a Rhassoul just for women.

The modern and spacious Fitness Center features “Kenesis” Technogym cardiovascular and strength equipment from Italy. If you need extra assistance or a tailored exercise program, the Spa offers experienced, private trainers.

The outdoor pool facility is simply stunning. It features 20 cabanas, equipped with flat-screen TV’s and PS-3 game consoles. The facility has two lap pools which are shaped like long blades. The look represents the blades of the Mandarin’s signature Fan logo. For food and snacks, try the the Pool Café.

Once of the proudest achievements of the The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas, was being awarded the coveted LEED®† Gold ratings from the U.S. Green Building Council. The property is firmly commitment to a new, high level of environmental consciousness.

The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas received the highest LEED achievement of any hotel, retail district or residential development in all of Las Vegas.

Residents of the Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas can also enjoy a wide variety of luxury services, such as housekeeping, in-room dining, private catering, concierge services and much more.

In addition, owners can also enjoy the use of a separate residential entrance and valet, plus a private residential elevator for direct access to all of the Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas hotel.

Whether your a world traveler, looking for a second, third or even fourth home, or just want a private residence in the heart of the famous Las Vegas Strip, then The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas should be your only choice.

The Residences at Mandarin Oriental offers its owners a truly first class, residential condo experience.

To learn more, please contact (866) 722-7171 or go to:
The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas

The Club Risque Las Vegas is the most sophisticated and elegant club in the Paris Las Vegas.

The Las Vegas Club Risque is decorated with shades of red and Asian decor, the club stays true with the French desire for beauty and grandeur.

Risque offers patrons breathtaking views of Las Vegas from dramatic private balconies.

There are several sections to the club. The primary one includes the dance floor, a bar, recessed seating areas, couches, ottomans and much more. There is a secluded area off to the side that is suitable for conversation, balconies and a terrace for those wanting a breath of fresh air.

If you’re interested in a V.I.P. package, the Risque Nightclub’s includes a front of the line pass, a table and one bottle of alcohol. The number of front of the line passes is dependent on day of the week and whether any special events are taking place. Please inquire at Risque Nightclub on the number of available V.I.P. passes.

Courtesy of: Halekulani

Halekulani, on the Hawaiian Island of Oahu is one of the world’s most acclaimed hotels. Since its opening in 1984, Halekulani has proudly received more than five hundred accolades, awards and honoraria. This amazing hotel is consistently ranked among the world’s finest.

The luxury hotel has just unveiled Pure Renewal at SpaHalekulani.  Spa guests at SpaHalekulani can now enjoy the ultimate 3 ½ hour detoxification experience.

Pure Renewal restores optimal well-being to the mind, body and soul.  Guests will be pampered and receive invigorating treatments, combined with nourishing cuisine and Halekulani’s personalized service.

The Pure Renewal treatment provides proven purification results … both inward and outward.

SpaHalekulani was the first spa to fully explore the healing cultures of Asia, Hawaii and the South Pacific.

Guests of SpaHalekulani receive a welcome that consists of the spa’s signature Foot Pounding, which includes an exclusive ritual that stimulates circulation in the feet. During this time, spa therapists can get a better understanding of specific guest needs.

To begin with, Pure Renewal offers a tea service consisting of warm Cinnamon Orange Tea. The purification process as the Cinnamon’s therapeutic value starts to calm the mind and promotes lymphatic drainage.

Next, is a Foot Reflexology session, that opens up the body’s circulation channels. Completing the detox experience, is pampering, full body massage that relaxes the lymphatic system and ultimately release stress.

As the next phase of the treatment begins, guests will enjoy a healthy and tasty Farm Fresh Lunch on SpaHalekulani’s own serene ocean front terrace. The lunch is heart healthy, savory and locally-sourced and you will enjoy the beautiful Pacific Ocean views.

Your Pure Renewal journey will continue, and entails two rituals of Full Body Skin Brushing. This treatment stimulates the lymphatic system. Wet brushing stimulates hormonal and oil-producing glands, for a healthy and youthful glow. Dry brushing regenerates skin via the process of exfoliation.

Next is an Espresso Limon Body Wrap. Coffee has long been known for its detoxifying and firming effects. Coffee also visibly diminishes the appearance of cellulite and eliminates water retention. The Espresso Limon Body Wrap also contains essential oils of cinnamon and lemon to ensure that skin boasts a long-lasting luster.

The conclusion of your SpaHalekulani Pure Renewal treatment, is with the Detox Therapy Foot Soak. It’s a tranquil treatment focused on recharging the body through the elimination of congested toxins through the feet. The Detox Therapy Foot Soak is the ultimate in holistic cleansing.

The Pure Renewal at SpaHalekulani is now available. Learn more at http://www.halekulani.com/spa_halekulani/

For reservations and information, please contact a travel planner, call Halekulani at (800) 367-2343 / (808) 923-2311 or visit the Halekulani website (www.halekulani.com).

Courtesy of: XS Nightclub

The extravagant XS Nightclub at Encore in Las Vegas, not only offers one of the most luxurious and ultra chic nightclubs anywhere, it serves up one of the most expensive cocktails in the world.

The signature cocktail at the XS Nightclub is simply titled, “Ono“.

The Ono cocktail is a mixture of the rare Charles Heidsieck 1981 Champagne Charlie, as well as Louis XIII de Remy Martin Black Pearl cognac.

You may want to sit down for this one. An Ono will cost you an eye-popping $10,000 !

But it’s not just a drink. Men customers also get an accompanying pair of Mont Blanc cuff links that are made of 18-karat gold and genuine stingray leather featuring the solid gold XS logos.

For the ladies, the Ono comes an 18-karat gold necklace plus a Tahitian black pearl that hangs from a diamond resting beneath a gold XS logo.

This specialty drink at XS is lavishly served in a jewel-encrusted champagne glass and placed on a specially designed tray.

XS Nightclub
3131 Las Vegas Blvd. S
(702) 770-0097

If you’re looking for an intimate, low-key place where you can enjoy good conversation and fabulous pastas, Pomodoro is ideal. Family-owned, this great Italian restaurant offers well-prepared food at reasonable prices.

Pomodoro Ristorante Italiano is located In Rainbow Plaza, Kaumualii Hwy. (Hwy. 50), inland from Poipu, in the Poipu Resort area of Kauai, Hawaii.

The selection of pastas at Pomodoro is substantial, whether you’re looking for something dressed (fettuccine Alfredo) or stuffed (manicotti).

If you’re open to other possibilities, look to veal parmigiana, chicken saltimbocca, or one of the seafood dishes. The signature lasagna is also not-to-be-missed, and special requests can be accommodated as well.

There is little dispute that Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and contains canals, gondolas and amazing architecture.

If you are planning a visit to this romantic Italian city, try and visit it in spring or fall to avoid the heat and tourist crowds.

While in Venice Italy, there are many sightseeing activities such as going to churches, museums, and other tourist attractions. You can also attend many events and other activities that are unique to this city built on the sea.

The Voga Longa is a local rowing competition which is held annually on the last day of May. This particular rowing race originated as a protest against the power boats that were once taking over the Venice canals. Now this rowing event has turned into a water festival. The racetrack passes through most of Venice, and crowds of people gather along the canals to cheer up the participants.

The Regata ‘Storica takes place in September on the first Sunday of the month. This event celebrates an occasion that took place in 1489. It’s an exhibit displaying almost one hundred types of Venetian boats.

While in Venice, do not forget to take a ride on the Water Bus called Vaporetto during sunset. The gorgeous sight is filled with the soft sunset light providing a mesmerizing picture. It is one of the best ways to remember Venice.

Although a ride on a Gondola is costly, you can save money by negotiating with the gondola operator to bring your price down. Taking a gondola ride down the majestic canals is a true Venetian experience. It doesn’t hurt to ask but the discounted rate might get you less time, and fewer sights. Work this out with your gondolier before you begin your trip.

If a gondola ride isn’t for you, then you try crossing the Grand Canal via traghetto. These are very cheap and are essentially gondolas that are too old to be used for that purpose. You can also visit the Rialto Bridge and the open air markets near it along with the Pescheria (fish market).

Another memorable experience, is spending a day on one of the nearby Venetian islands (like Murano or Burano) which you can reach via the many boat services. The Glass Museum in Murano offers a terrific visitor experience as well as the Lace Museum in Burano.

Venice is a such a beautiful city.A place that everybody should experience at least once in their lifetime.