Shen Yun – A Magical Journey of Traditional Chinese Culture

I had the honor of seeing a Shen Yun performance. The 2017 show season marks its 10th anniversary world tour. It was spectacular and truly portrays genuine Chinese culture that cannot be seen anywhere else. Shen Yun has performed in sold out theaters all around the world. From the first act to the last, it was an amazing performance.

The show was established in 2006 by a group of talented Chinese artists. Genuine Chinese culture has become a lost art in China. As a result, Chinese artists banded together to try to revive the traditions and share with the world.

The show is a blend of culture, incredible dances, musical numbers, timeless stories and also includes a live orchestra. Classical Chinese dance becomes the vessel to tell a fascinating story, covering 5,000 years of Chinese civilization. Now it becomes a way for the modern world to appreciate China’s traditional values.

One of top crowd pleasers was how Shen Yun integrated technological innovation with ancient legends. The full stage backdrops complimented each performance perfectly. The backdrops were animated, so it appeared performers were morphing both to and from the stage with the backdrop. A creative, special effects method right from Hollywood. One moment you are in the snow covered mountains for a Tibetan celebration. Next go back to a peaceful time in the grasslands with Mongolian horsemen.

The performance is broken into two main sets, with a 15 minute intermission. All of the dance segments are brilliantly choreographed. The talented dancers wear colorful, traditional Chinese costumes. These beautiful, handmade costumes add just as much importance to each routine, as the dancers themselves.

Each dance number highlights a group of very talented dancers. Their moves are graceful, effortless and always in unison. Each number was a fine balance of grace and beauty, along with incredible gymnastic tumbling moves. Classical Chinese dance has lived in for many generations via ancient theater, folk traditions, as well as imperial court performances.

Chinese culture has long been driven by Buddhist, Taoist and of course Confucian teachings. Therefore, Shen Yun has perfectly integrated those wisdoms in its show. Key virtues such as justice, loyalty and benevolence are taught and become the foundation of each Chinese person. The hope is good will be rewarded and evil actions appropriately punished.

Shen Yun

What I enjoyed was the pace of the show. Even during the slower, artistic performances, the show had a driving energy that the audience could feel. From the stunning scenery, creative choreography and live music, Shen Yun conveyed a energetic vibe that resonated throughout the theater.

Many live theatrical shows only use soundtracks. But Shen Yun has a live orchestra and included many traditional instruments. The musical score seamlessly fitted the theme of the show. It never overpowered and never underwhelmed. The audience was introduced to traditional Chinese music that most had likely never even heard before. All of the music played is original and influenced by China’s rich history and culture.

Shen Yun also presented live singers and musical performances. Accompanied by a talented pianist, both a male and female sang beautiful numbers. In addition, a woman played an erhu. This traditional Chinese instrument has been around for over 4,000 years. Similar to a small cello, but it only has two strings. The sounds were harmonious and brilliantly played.

A male and female walk out on the stage after each number, to narrate and introduce the next act. We learn that the current Communist Party in China does not allow authentic culture to be performed. They fear this culture as a direct threat to their power. Although Shen Yun has performed in front of millions of people all around the world, it has surprisingly never been seen in China.

Shen Yun

What was interesting to learn, was that the show’s performers are spiritually inspired by meditation and self improvement techniques. The practice is called Falun Dafa. The performers brings together both meditation and study into their daily lives. As a result, their on stage performances appear more genuine and they truly enjoy what they do.

If you are looking for an uplifting and dazzling performance, makes plans to see Shen Yun yourself. Become more educated about ancient Chinese wisdom and the country’s rich culture. Learn that both earth and heaven live as one – in harmony.

The Life of Luxury has access to theater shows such as Shen Yun all round the world, including many VIP experiences. Please return to follow our popular luxury blog for more entertainment stories and industry news

Photo: Shen Yun




Luxury Stay at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai

With the new year here, the luxury Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai will become a top destination in 2017. Just opened last month, the new luxury resort in Dubai was launched by Nikki Beach Hotels & Resorts Ltd.

Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai becomes the fourth property in Nikki’s popular global portfolio of stylish beach and urban retreats. The opening follows the launch of Nikki Beach Dubai Restaurant & Beach Club in early 2016.

This luxurious resort and spa in the United Arab Emirates offers endless luxury amenities for their guests to enjoy. Found on Pearl Jumeira and adjacent to a gorgeous 450-meter long sandy beach, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai features 132 keys in addition to 63 private residences. With so many land and water activities available, this spacious property is definitely a luxury lifestyle resort.

In total, the property is 52,000-square-meters in size. Therefore guests can easily get some privacy and alone time. Enjoy the awe inspiring views of nearby Dubai skyline, plus the Arabian Gulf.

Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai

Guestrooms are equipped with individual climate control, wireless internet and also come with your own private balcony. In addition, enjoy mood lighting, a high-end entertainment systems, complimentary high-speed WiFi, plus a personalized minibar.

The room decor follows a beachside-chic aesthetic. Rooms and suites are decorated feature the bright whites, pale blues and natural wood elements that is Nikki Beach’s signature look. There is plenty of natural light in these spacious accommodations.

For those guests who stay in one of the beachside villas, you will have direct access to the beach, plus the property’s four private pools, sun-warmed terraces and private cabanas. What a VIP experience!

For those who want to get in a little exercise at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai, try the tennis court and and relaxing Nikki Spa and Tone Gym. Take advantage of the gym’s high-end Technogym fitness equipment.

Foodies will feel like they have gone to cuisine heaven. Feast at five different restaurant and lounges. Your dining choices include – Nikki Beach Dubai Restaurant & Beach Club, with globally-inspired fare in a beachside setting; Café Nikki, an all-day urban bistro; Soul Lounge, offering creative bites to complement chilled-out tunes and uplifting beverages, plus Nikki Privé, an exclusive lounge with perfect views of the sunset. Lastly, Key West is a blending of Floridian, Caribbean and Latin cuisine. This upscale restaurant will open later this year and promise to deliver a distinctive, fine dining experience.

Be sure to make plans to visit Dubai, United Arab Emirates and enjoy a luxury stay at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai. The Life of Luxury assist you with all your travel plans. Stop by again to read our luxury blog for more luxury travel ideas.

Photo: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai




Enjoy a Coffeetail No. 51 Cocktail with LAVAZZA

Tonight, people around the world will be enjoying the official kick-off of the red carpet award season. The Golden Globes will be held tonight, January 8th, 2017 at the Beverly Hilton hotel in California. Toast to the Golden Globes with a Coffeetail No. 51 cocktail made with LAVAZZA coffee.

This year’s 74th Golden Globe Awards event will be hosted by comedian and late-night TV talk show host Jimmy Fallon. Lavazza is the official coffee sponsor of the 74th Golden Globes awards and will be served both before and all during the famous awards ceremony.

If you are hosting your own Golden Globes party, be sure to include Coffeetail No. 51 cocktail, made with LAVAZZA coffee. There is a popular coffee-cocktail trend underway, so be trendy yourself and ride the wave!

The Coffeetail No. 51 is made with cold brew LAVAZZA coffee, vodka, Gran Marnier, plus ginger ale. Sounds so delicious right?

Enjoy your own coffee-cocktail along with all the famous Hollywood celebrities at the red carpet award show. The Coffeetail is the perfect DIY cocktail for your Golden Globes viewing party or just watching the show at home. With the cold of winter gripping our lives, warm up with this delicious coffee-cocktail.

Here is the drink recipe for the LAVAZZA Coffeetail No. 51

Ingredients:
· 3 parts ginger ale
· 2 parts cold brew coffee concentrate
· 2/3 part vodka
· Splash of Grand Marnier
· Splash of simple syrup
· Sliced lemon, orange and cucumber
· Fresh mint
· Maraschino cherries

Method:
– Fill a 12 oz. glass with ice.
– In a shaker, combine cold brew, Grand Marnier, vodka and syrup; pour over the ice.
– Top with ginger ale.
– Decorate with wheel or slices of orange and/or a lemon.
– Skewer cherries and cucumber wedge. Garnish with mint.

We hope you enjoy the LAVAZZA Coffeetail No. 51 and share with us how your Golden Globes party went!

Come back soon to follow our luxury blog. We offer a variety of VIP event planning services can offer VIP experiences to many red carpet award shows. Drink up with LAVAZZA Coffeetail No. 51

Photo: LAVAZZA




Buy Your Own Luxury Yacht – M/Y IMPULSE – Sunseeker 90

With 2017 underway, maybe Santa Claus didn’t get you all the luxury gifts you wanted. If a luxury yacht didn’t fit under your Christmas Tree, don’t fret. You can buy the M/Y IMPULSE – Sunseeker 90 luxury yacht.

The M/Y IMPULSE – Sunseeker 90 luxury yacht was built by Sunseeker International in 2007. Las year, M/Y IMPULSE finished a five month renovation. The interior of this luxury yacht got a brand new interior. In addition, the Sunseeker 90 superyacht got new sundeck furniture plus new water-sports equipment.

The M/Y IMPULSE – Sunseeker 90 can accommodate up to eight guests. This luxury yacht feature four cabins. There is a gorgeous full beam master suite, plus a spacious VIP suite. You will also find two twin cabins. All four cabins are equipped with flat screen, LCD televisions as well as full en suite facilities.

The yacht handles beautifully and is powered by 1,800hp Caterpillar engines. As a result, the yacht can reach water speeds up to 30 knots. For improved handling, M/Y IMPULSE comes with zero speed stabilizers that provide anti-roll comfort both in port and at sea.

Many people dream of owning a luxury yacht. Getting away from the stress in our daily lives is important. Maybe the time has come to consider looking into owning your own yacht, like the M/Y IMPULSE – Sunseeker 90.

If you are interested, you’re in luck. This superyacht just got a large price adjustment of EUR 450,000. It can now be purchased for just EUR 1,850,000 – excluding VAT.

The M/Y IMPULSE is 28m in length (91′ 10″) and a beam of 6.30m (20′ 8″). You will enjoy the VIP experience of having a crew of four at your disposal such as cleaning and cooking.

For entertaining your guests, enjoy the large saloon equipped with a state of the art entertainment system. Sip on your favorite cocktails in the yacht’s own bar. To enjoy a romantic dinner for two, or a large social gathering, eat in the separate, formal dining area.

Enjoy the sun and outdoors on the expansive flybridge deck. There is plenty of space to sunbathe and sit and watch the awesome views. Food and drinks are never too far away, The deck has a refrigerator, ice maker and grill.

Time to take your next dream vacation on this luxury yacht – M/Y IMPULSE – Sunseeker 90.

We can help you locate and purchase that luxury yacht you have always wanted. Consider the incredible, M/Y IMPULSE – Sunseeker 90 or many others we have access to. Return again to read our luxury blog for additional superyachts for sale.

Photo: MySea




Get Pampered in Florida with Seasonal Spa Treatments

With the Christmas holiday season and New Years over with, winter is still underway. Many parts of the world are experiencing cold weather. It’s time consider a much needed vacation and experience seasonal spa treatments in sunny Florida.

Two of Florida’s finest resorts are the Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa and Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa. These luxury resort properties offer the best amenities and luxurious accommodations. Best of all, be sure to enjoy their seasonal spa treatments.

During the Christmas season, several well known ingredients are Gingerbread, Peppermint and Cranberry. Both Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa and Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa have integrated these tasty treats in their respective, seasonal spa treatments.

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SiSpa at Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa
· Winter Rescue Treatment
Keep sinuses clear and the immune system strong with this purifying upper body treatment and Ayurvedic scalp massage. Perfect for those recovering from seasonal allergies or chest complaints, this treatment uses the essential oils of eucalyptus, tea tree and pine to decongest and boost natural immunity. Guests will leave refreshed and breathing freely. (50 minutes, $99)

· Hot Toddy Mani-Pedi
Features a Bourbon Bubbler scrub and a Red Hot Cinnamon oil massage with nail cleaning and cutting (100 minutes, $99)

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SiSpa at Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa

· Cranberry Orange Body Scrub & Wrap
Filling the room with festive scents of cranberry and orange, this treatment begins with a full body exfoliation with a cranberry orange scrub. Next, a detoxifying, antioxidant-rich mud masque is applied, followed by a gentle cocoon wrap. While wrapped, guests will receive a relaxing face and scalp massage to melt away tension. A rich cranberry orange body butter finishes off this delectable treatment to hydrate skin and lock in moisture. Guests can also opt for the Deluxe version of this treatment that includes a relaxing 25-minute massage. (50-minute treatment, $99; 80-minute Deluxe treatment, $150)

· Gingerbread Manicure & Pedicure
The perfect holiday mani for one hot cookie. Hands will be treated to a butterscotch effervescent vitamin soak, with chicory root and sweet almond oil for ultimate skin hydration. Next, a scrumptious brown sugar polish exfoliates and revives dry winter skin leaving behind a fragrance of gingersnap bourbon. Finally, before prep and polish begins, hands and feet will be thoroughly massaged with warmed, spicy caramel body milk. (80-minutes, $89)

· Guests can enhance their spa experience and rejuvenate the senses with an aromatherapy enhancement. Peppermint, eucalyptus and dwarf pine holiday scents are available. ($10)

Florida is a wonderful place to visit anytime of the year. It’s one of the top destinations in the U.S. and offers endless beaches and attractions to enjoy.

You can take advantage of the above seasonal spa treatments in sunny all through the month of January 2017. Beat the cold and get a pampering, VIP experience.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your vacation getaway to Florida. Get pampered at one of resort’s luxury spas and be treated to relaxing seasonal spa treatments. Return soon and follow our luxury blog.




Celebrate the New Year with El Jefe from Tequila Don Julio

The New Year is right around the corner. Where did 2016 go? With 2017 just weeks ago, New Year’s Eve party plans are well under way. Be sure to include “El Jefe” from Tequila Don Julio.

Tequila Don Julio has been been one of the most respected tequila brands in the world. They have just introduced their newest addition to their fine tequila portfolio – El Jefe. The new Don Julio 1942 1.75 Liter bottles will be labeled “El Jefe.”

These new bottles will be available in many of the most popular nightclubs. Initially, expect to see them in California, Illinois, New York, Florida and Nevada. In addition, additional markets will see El Jefe during 2017.

Tequila Don Julio is a top choice for many people who like to drink this fine spirit either straight or mixed in their favorite cocktail of choice. From celebrities and dignitaries, Don Julio 1942 is extremely popular. In fact, it remains the fastest growing luxury spirit over the $100 retail price point.

The history of Tequila Don Julio is epic. It was originally crafted by founder Don Julio González. In a collaboration with current Master Distiller Enrique de Colsa, the great taste of this iconic tequila was born.

Tequila is always a popular alcoholic choice. Don’t risk it by choosing a low quality tequila. Go with a top brand like Tequila Don Julio and you won’t be disappointed. Your friends will thank you as well!

Now with the bigger El Jefe size, there is no reason to live life with regrets. Have fun at your next party or social event!

Enjoy the new El Jefe 1.75 Liter bottles from Tequila Don Julio. We hope you return again to follow this popular luxury blog. Read about the most popular spirits and wine news. Need help planning your next party? Let us know.

Photo: Tequila Don Julio / Shannon Sturgis Photography




El Palauet Living – A Luxury All-Suite Boutique Hotel

Located in Barcelona, Spain is the El Palauet Living. This immaculately designed luxury all-suite boutique hotel on Passeig de Gracia, makes this luxury hotel uniquely positioned to offer the lucky visitor a singular holiday experience. Guests can enjoy animated celebrations just steps outside the hotel’s front door. When the temps drop during winter, take advantage of the Finnish sauna to warm your chilled bones.

El Palauet Living is centrally located in the Gracia area, whose bohemian, cultural impetus is evident around every corner. The holidays are a spirited time in Barcelona, with schools closed and families spending much of the nearly two-week celebration together.

The streets of Barcelona are lined and decorated with colorful light displays. In lieu of Santa Claus, the Tres Reis Mags, the biblical Three Kings, or Magi, bring gifts for children aboard a tall-masted ship which arrives each January 5th at 5 in the evening to the Fuste Pier on Barcelona’s famous waterfront.

The all-suite, El Palauet Living hotel features six large 1600 square foot apartment suites. Each luxury and spacious suite offers the comfort, feeling, and familiarity of home. In addition, guests receive a highly personalized guest service program plus on-call personal assistants.

El Palauet Living is currently celebrating a milestone 5-year anniversary. The holidays are a spirited time in Barcelona and it’s a wonderful time to visit Spain and spend time touring the magnificent city of Barcelona. El Palauet is located in the Gracia area> Therefore, there’s a strong bohemian influence. Enjoy strong cultural at every street corner.

Barcelona is primarily a Catholic town. In fact, Christmas begins on December 24th and will continue until January 6th, which is called the Epiphany. This tradition utilizes the entire “12 Days of Christmas.”

The Catalan evenings come alive with a variety of artistic, lighting installations. The holiday lights line the streets to create a simply magical atmosphere. The annual Christmas parade (cabalgata) starts when the Three Kings get off their wooden ship. The Barcelona parade follows the major streets of the city. Once it arrives at the spacious Plaza de Catalunya, the Kings ride behind an array of floats and colorful Christmas adornments. A genuine VIP experience!

In addition to the beginning of a new Year, New Years also brings a tradition. At midnight with celebrations rockling all around Barcelona, partiers place 12 grapes into their mouth. Each grape represents each stroke of the clock.

Make your plans now to stay at the El Palauet Living luxury hotel in Barcelona. Take in the rich culture and enjoy a traditional Christmas celebration.

Our travel concierge specialists can help you plan and book your Barcelona stay at the El Palauet Living hotel. We enjoy sharing unique travel ideas in our luxury blog.

Photo: El Palauet Living




Hilton San Francisco Union Square – Holiday Bed & Breakfast Package

San Francisco is nicknamed the “City by The Bay.” Now is an awesome time to visit Frisco and enjoy the holiday season at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square hotel. In fact, take advantage of the hotel’s Hilton San Francisco Union Square’s Holiday Bed & Breakfast Package. It’s available until January 1, 2017.

The holiday package includes a Standard King room for just $179 per night – based on double occupancy. In addition to your accommodations, enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet for two in the hotel’s own restaurant – Urban Tavern. The Hilton San Francisco Union Square is definitely a world-class hotel. It provides awesome city views and a taste of international sophistication.

The Hilton San Francisco Union Square hotel features 1,919 guest rooms. In addition, there are 151 luxury suites. All rooms and suites offer great city views.

Staying at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square hotel, enjoy the best San Francisco offers. Your luxury hotel is nearby theater productions, shopping, plus the popular Union Square Holiday Ice Rink. San Francisco is a magical place during the Christmas holiday season.

Another Hilton property in the city is the Parc 55 San Francisco. This luxury hotel is offering the Parc 55 San Francisco’s Holiday Bed & Breakfast Package. Also priced at just $179 per night. Sleep in a comfortable Standard King room. The holiday package is for two people. In addition, you receive breakfast for two people in the hotel’s own restaurant – Cable 55.

Be sure to stop by the trendy, new Cityscape San Francisco Lounge. It’s found on the 46th floor of the Hilton San Francisco Union Square’s 46th floor. Enjoy signature cocktails, wines, small plates and appetizers. The big attraction is the unbelievable, 360-degree panoramic views of the entire Bay Area. Get a bird’s eye view of many of San Francisco’s most famous landmarks. Cityscape has become a popular spot to hang out in fun, social setting. The viewing lounge is open between 5:00 pm and 12:00 am seven days a week. You can read more at – New Cityscape San Francisco Lounge Offers Epic Views

If you are able to stay and take advantage of one of the 2 holiday packages, be sure to make the most of your visit. Shopaholics can enjoy the city’s largest collection of retail stores, department stores, boutiques and outlets. For theater lovers, see War Memorial Opera House is showing The Nutcracker. Of course when visiting San Francisco, take a ride on the world famous cable car. In addition, kids will love the chance to meet Santa Claus at Macy’s.

Photo: Hilton San Francisco Union Square




Get Festive in Italy with Five Italian Christmas Markets

Many people instantly respond to the traditional Christmas Markets in Germany. They are very popular during the holiday season and visitors travel from all around the world to enjoy them. Many are not aware that Italy also hosts their own. We would like to share five Italian Christmas Markets to consider.

If you are looking for an extraordinary VIP experience and travel to Italy for Christmas, then you need to make your plans now! There are still great travel deals available on short notice.

Fuoritinerario – Discover Your Italy is a boutique travel tour company that has a long history of of find off-the-beaten path opportunities. They have in depth knowledge of Italy and have offered to provide details on five Italian Christmas Markets.

These five Italian Christmas Markets provide tourist that chance to experience the rich culture of Italy. Enjoy great tasting food and drinks, plus a variety of products and souvenirs to purchase. Please take a look:

SANT’AGATA FELTRIA, EMILIA ROMAGNA (Now until December 20, 2016)
This medieval town is also known as Il Paese del Natale (the Christmas village). Its historic center becomes an enchanted place with the traditional sounds of bagpipes and handcrafted nativity on display all along the narrow alleys as well as in the Fregoso Fortress which dates back to 1000 AD. The market square hosts Santa’s home (reindeer included) and lots of fun activities for children organized by the elves!

CANDELARA, PESARO (Now until December 14, 2016)
Candele a Candelara, the Candelara candle light festival, is the first Italian Christmas market dedicated to candles. Apropos, since the name of this medieval town is derived from the Latin word for candle. During the celebration all electric lights go dark at fifteen minute intervals and the town glows only with candle light. Visitors can also wander through the town’s traditional Christmas market.

BOLZANO, SOUTH TYROL (Now until January 6, 2017)
Certainly the most renowned town in Italy known for hosting the country’s largest Christmas market or mercatini di Natale. For more than a month, the magnificently festooned Piazza Walther is filled with decorated stands, as well as the fragrance of cinnamon and mulled wine – making visitors feel as if they are in a fairytale.

AOSTA, AOSTA VALLEY (Now until January 6, 2017)
The Marché Vert Noël (Green Christmas Market) turns Aosta‘s Piazza Caveri into an alpine Christmas wonderland with twinkling lights, glimmering decorations, and adorned Christmas trees. Shoppers can browse handmade items including candles, holiday decorations, soaps, ceramics, wooden handicrafts and antique furniture, as well as clothing and accessories made from local wool, felt, hemp and lace.

MANAROLA, CINQUE TERRE (Now until February 1, 2017)
This lovely seaside town of the Cinque Terre hosts one of the most beautiful and original nativity scenes in the world – The Presepe di Manarola – with over 15,000 solar-powered light bulbs and 300 characters made from recycled or unused materials. Visitors can walk through a candy cane village, and take cooking classes preparing traditional Christmas dishes.

Discover Your Italy is owed by an Italian husband and wife team – Matteo Della Grazia and Daniela Mencarelli. Together they bring an enormous amount of travel knowledge and experience. Since 2007, they have become respected as experts in Italy travel. In addition to discovering the main attractions of Italy, get to know the cultural heart of this iconic country.

The Life of Luxury is available to help plan and book your luxury travel vacation. From visiting Italian Christmas Markets to gazing at the pyramids of Egypt to a romantic Mediterranean cruise, let us help. Stop by again to read our luxury blog for the latest luxury travel news and hot destinations. Our travel concierge team is available to assist.




Celebrate and Visit Sunny Florida During the Holiday Season

With the Christmas holiday season upon us, many people no longer stay at home. Increasing numbers travel to places all around the world. If a warm weather locale like Florida sounds tempting, you are in luck. Visit sunny Florida during the holiday season.

Two popular luxury properties in Florida are offering a variety of holiday festivities. Both the Naples Grande Beach Resort and The Marker Waterfront Resort Key West are top choices of many travelers this year.

Christmas to many people is the most wonderful time of the year. You may find it hard ot believe but the Naples Grande Beach Resort is the place to be. This premiere Southwest Florida resort has transformed into a holiday wonderland, that should not be missed. Spending time in Florida during the holiday season will treat you to long lasting memories. At the resort, enjoy the Naples Grande’s holiday tree that towers almost 10 feet tall.

In addition, there are 60 shimmering bottles of Veuve Clicquot champagne on display. The reason for the display is to pay tribute to the luxury resort’s upcoming 30th anniversary milestone. You will find Santa’s sleigh, but it’s no normal sleigh. Hop on the resort’s festive tram that has been decorated as Santa’s sleigh for the holiday season. For a luxury experience, the sleigh can take you right to the beach. How fun is that?

Below are a few activities and events at the Naples Grande Beach Resort this holiday season:

· Christmas Feast (adults $59 and $30 per little elf under 12) will include a variety of holiday favorites like Egg Nog, Mulled Apple Cider, Citrus Roasted Turkey, Prime Rib of Beef and a Dessert Buffet with holiday cookies and other seasonal offerings. Additionally, there will be a separate buffet for little elves under 12 to enjoy.

· New Year’s Eve Dinner (Price: $109) at The Catch of the Pelican, will feature a delectable four-course meal with tasty menu items, such as Truffle Cauliflower Soup, Iceberg Wedge, Black Trumpet Encrusted Filet Mignon and Butter Poached Lobster Tails and Hummingbird Cake for dessert.

· Grande Style New Year’s Eve Party (Price: $94.49) at the Royal Palm Ballroom in partnership with Beasley Media Group, will include passed hors d’ouevres, a midnight champagne toast, and feature sounds from Lovestruck Robot, a young, fresh, explosive band from Orlando, Florida. Lovestruck Robot has been featured on national television including the “The Voice” and the Today Show, and has played at popular venues, such as the World-Famous House of Blues and the Ritz Theater in historic Ybor City Tampa.

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Visiting Florida during the holiday Season is so much fun. You will fine The Marker Waterfront Resort Key West to be another terrific choice. This luxury resort can be found in the southernmost city of Key West, Florida. Foodies will love the variety of great tasting food being offered this time of the year.

The resort is also offering a creative holiday cocktail menu:

· Cuban Egg Nog (Crème de Vie), includes sweet condensed milk, evaporated milk, egg yolks, sugar, water, vanilla, white rum, and is garnished with a star of anise

· Bacon Bourbon Bloody Mary, includes Bacon infused Bourbon, House made Bloody Mary mix, garnished with candied bacon, a spicy green bean and a bleu cheese stuffed olive

· Cranberry Moscow Mule, includes ginger beer, lime juice, Vodka, cranberry juice cocktail, raw cranberries and lime
slices for garnish

In addition, The Marker will also be offering unique holiday programming, perfect for the whole family:

· Local Holiday Market and Concert (December 22), will feature local Key West vendors selling holiday gifts for purchase, as well as sounds of singer-songwriter and guitarist phenomenon Rusty Lemmon. Local vendors featured at the Holiday Market will include Tucker’s Provision, Wench Bracelets, Abigal Houff Jewelry, and Clay Pieces by Jennifer Franke. Also during the event, new local distillery Papa’s Pilar will be offering guests samples of some of their rum cocktails to be featured at the resort’s Cero Bodega restaurant.

· New Year’s Day Recovery Pool Party, will include a DJ, brunch specials, and vitamin B12 shots provided by Hangover
Hospital to help guests recover from their New Year’s hangovers. Hangover packages will start at $100 with add-ons available for purchase. Also, patrons who make a purchase at Cero Bodega during happy hour on December 30 and 31 will get a free B12 shot.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan your next luxury vacation. Consider a visit to Florida during the holiday season. Return soon and follow our luxury blog. Read about the best luxury travel hotspots!




Enjoy the Holidays with Laphroaig Single Malt Scotch Whisky

It’s hard to believe but the holidays are right around the corner. Are you ready? Of course not. There is so much to do. Take a moment to relax and reflect. Enjoy the holidays with delicious Laphroaig Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

Parties are being planned and Christmas gifts are being bought all around the world. Laphroaig Single Malt Scotch Whisky makes the ideal holiday gift for that Single Malt Scotch Whisky connoisseur in your life. Drink the best form the #1 Islay Single Malt whisky in the world.

Laphroaig is offering your choice of premium, holiday gift options. The top scotch whisky brand released two brand new, limited edition expressions. They are perfect for the holidays. Laphroaig 25 Year Old is a unique expression with creamy, sherried flavor that is perfect for scotch lovers in your life. In addition, the limited edition Laphroaig 30 Year Old brings to mind the seasonal flavors of almond and sage and is perfect for holiday dinners on a cold winter evening.

It’s important to remember the important things in life. The holiday season is a time to spend with the ones closest to us. Asa result, be sure to include Laphroaig’s subtly sweet Cairdeas Madeira in your holiday gathering. It’s barrel aged in ex-Madeira casks for the perfect, smooth taste. It is also the annual release of Laphroaig’s Cairdeas, which translates to “friendship” in Gaelic.

So be merry, drink and have a wnderful Christmas holiday season. We hope you get the chance to buy or try one of these awesome Laphroaig Single Malt Scotch Whisky choices.

Laphroaig Cairdeas Madeira ($74.99)
This is 2016’s iteration of Laphroaig’s annual “Cairdeas” release, expertly crafted by distillery manager John Campbell to celebrate friendship (“Cairdeas” means friendship in Gaelic). It features fully matured Laphroaig aged in ex-bourbon barrels before being artfully married together for a second maturation in Madeira seasoned traditional casks. The result is a unique expression to be savored among good friends.
NOSE: Ripe orange fruits, waxy carbolic soap and sweet licorice moving into Jamaican spices, dry mixed peppers and a dry nutty finish
PALATE: Lovely peaty earthy flavors come first followed by a hint of dry saltiness. Good mouthfeel and creamy orange tones follow
TASTE: Bold and lingering with a spicy, ashy, dry feeling

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Laphroaig 25 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky ($499.99)
It is a rare and unique expression, and the newest addition to the Laphroaig portfolio of Single Malt Scotch Whiskies. This uncommonly exquisite liquid is a non-drill filtered marriage of Laphroaig’s signature Islay peat, with sherried, oaky flavors from second-fill European Oak Oloroso sherry casks and creamy, sweet flavors from American White Oak bourbon barrels, bottled at cask strength. The result is a whisky with exceptional character and depth.
NOSE: Initial sherry sweetness followed by an Islay peat tang
BODY: Multifaceted with great depth
PALATE: Burst of peat restrained by a sherry sweetness that develops into a spicy apple fruitiness
FINISH: Very long and slightly dry
TASTE: Deep, complex and smoky, with a gentle sweetness

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Laphroaig 30 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky ($1,000)
It’s a rare limited-release from Laphroaig Single Malt Scotch Whisky, and features notes of toasted almond, save and a subtle touch of the peat smoke that is Laphroaig’s trademark. Like the wave-washed granite walls at the Laphroaig distillery, Laphroaig 30 Year Old has acquired rounded character and exceptional smoothness through a double maturation in the first and second-fill ex-Bourbon barrels.
NOSE: Mandarin and mango rise to the forefront, tempered by toasted almond and coconut. Aromatic peat oils are interwoven, appearing as cedar, wintergreen and smoked sage. A drop of water releases flashes of honey and apricot
PALATE: A superbly oily mouthfeel with orange peel, vanilla and coriander leaf, in a cedar cigar box alongside wild root ginseng
FINISH: Long and complex with lingering pulpy stone fruit and chewy green hand rolled tobacco

Be sure to treasure the Christmas holidays with Laphroaig Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Perfect for any social occasion. Stop by again and read more spirit and fine liqueur articles in our luxury blog.

Photo: Laphroaig