Insider Trips
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Travel bites—seen and heard by the Indagare editors, contributors, members and friends—that are too good to pass up. For more updates, follow us on Facebook and Twitter
A Romantic Retreat on Mallorca
We hear that the month-old Cap Rocat is the sexiest new retreat on Mallorca. Located in an old military fortress on a secluded stretch of the Bay of Palma, the hotel has just 24 suites, each built into the fortress’ former shooting pads and all with sea views and private patios. Just remember to leave the kids at home – children under the age of 15 aren’t allowed.
A Royal Pain
In case business requires you to be in London during the royal wedding, we have discovered that there are still rooms remaining at some of the city’s best hotels. Contact the Indagare bookings team to secure space.
Altapura
News for skiiers: Sibuet Hotels just opened a new superluxe lodge in Val Thorens called Altapura.
Aman in Bodrum
First the Aman, now Mandarin Oriental – luxury has definitely arrived on the Bodrum Peninsula.
Aspen Property Take Over
We hear Auberge Resorts is taking over Hotel Jerome in Aspen. Look for massive renovations next fall.
Bangkok Flood Update
An update on the Bangkok floods from Indagare Editorial Director, Simone Girner, who is traveling through Bangkok and Laos now. Bangkok Flood Update
Caribbean: Anguilla
Anguilla is looking more appealing this winter – word is that Malliouhana will finally do a much-needed renovation of their rooms and there are multiple buyers interested in taking over the gorgeous but financially troubled Temenos Golf Club. Apparently the Viceroy has finally got its sea legs as well and will hopefully have service issues under control soon.
Copacabana Palace
Copacabana Palace to undergo renovations this fall. Look’s like Rio’s grande dame will have a whole new look!
Eco-Adventure in Costa Rica
A contact in Costa Rica tipped us off to a remote lodge that’s a perfect fit for adventurous couples. Pacuare Lodge is a romantic eco-resort located in the Costa RIcan rainforest. But it’s not just the private bungalows and stunning treetop views that make it so special. Instead of standard airport transfers, guests are joined by a guide and navigate class III and IV rapids on the Pacuare River to reach the lodge. More timid travelers can also arrange a 4×4 pickup to reach Pacuare, but really – where’s the fun in that?
Ellerman House Addition
We hear Ellerman House in South Africa is constructing a second villa! This is fantastic news.
Europe's Secret Spa Retreat
Not entirely a secret, Villa Paradiso Spa on Lake Garda is a well-guarded weapon that is shared among stylish women in Italy with only their closest friends. It’s not as glitzy as the Thermes Marins in Monaco or as rigorous as the Ranch at Live Oak or the Ashram, but regulars swear by their results. The food is delicious; staff is nurturing; and comforts spare but cosseting (think Alpine, family-run chalet).
Explora Patagonia
Explora Patagonia is set to reopen in late February following the recent wildfires.
Fasano
Fasano opening an additional 5 properties in South America by 2014. We hear recently-opened Las Piedras in Punta is as stunning as it looks.
Four Seasons Preferred
We are pleased to announce that Indagare has been made a Preferred Partner of Four Seasons!
Goldeneye's Chef
The chef at Jamaica’s Goldeneye Resort imported from Nobu. Add that to reasons we’re drooling over this sexy hideaway.
Harlem Hot Spot
It looks like the New York Times shares our opinion about Red Rooster, star chef Marcus Samuelsson’s new hot spot in Harlem. The food, scene and the wonderfully diverse crowd (ranging from downtown hipsters to elegant Harlem matrons and everyone in between) are a hit. The service, however, could use some work. But that is sure to change, whereas the general vibe couldn’t be any better. A full review of favorite dishes is to come, but in the meantime, grab a table before they are impossible to get.
Click here to read the New York Times review
Joel Robuchon and Air France
Joel Robuchon has been hired to create special menus for Air France Business Class through June, 2012.
Jose Ignacio Villas
We just discovered an amazing new collection of villas in Jose Ignacio, Uruguay that were handpicked by one of our best operators in South America. The glamorous homes, all with stunning views and five-star hotel services, are the perfect alternative for travelers who can’t get into the sold out Playa Vik or want more space and privacy.
K2
K2, sister hotel to Le Kilimandjaro Courchevel, opened today. Checked in and loving the futuristic-alpine decor.
Kasbah Tamadot additions
As if heaven could be improved, Kasbah Tamadot is just opening new Berber tents and spa facilities.
Koh Samui for Christmas
The Anantara Bophut in Koh Samui is doubling in size this fall and will have new villas available in time for Christmas. Holiday availability on the island is notoriously difficult, and this is great news for travelers who haven’t already reserved a room.
London Pop-Up Restaurant
The pop-up restaurant craze continues in London this month with the opening of Hel Yes! in North London’s Islington. From September 15th – October 3rd diners will be treated to chef Antto Melasniemi’s daily changing menu of traditional Finnish dishes, which include spruce cured beef, Karelian stew and liquorice crème brûlée. In keeping with Helsinki’s status as the World Design Capital, the industrial warehouse has been transformed into a contemporary design space with Aspen tree tables by Linda Bergroth and limited edition chairs by Alvar Aalto. The bar is open until 1am (Thursday to Saturday) and serves local beers and cinnamon-flavored vodkas.
Hel Yes, London Newcastle Depot, 1-3 Wenlock Road, N1 7SL, +44 (0) 7505-998-053
New Aman in Brazil
We were just tipped off about a new Aman opening in Brazil.
New Villa on Anguilla
Our contacts on Anguilla say that Le Bleu, which opened last year, is the most glamorous new villa on the island. Perfect for large groups, it has ten bedrooms, two swimming pools, two private beaches, a tennis court, gym and a screening room. Contact Indagare if you are interested in booking – Christmas is already taken but Spring Break dates are open as of mid-July.
Notable Newcomers in Park City
From an Indagare member who is spending this year in Deer Valley on a “family sabbatical.”
I read your reviews of Deer Valley and the new Montage for accuracy and found them spot on. I also have new restaurant recommendations for you: Silver located at 508 Main Street, Park City. It opened to the public at the end of January (it hosted only private parties during Sundance) and our first meal there two weeks ago was terrific, in the same class as Wahso and Talisker on Main. And two more Park City additions: High West Distillery (703 Park Avenue, Park City) and Spruce @ The Waldorf- Astoria (2100 West Frostwood Boulevard, Park City).
Outside Paris: Les Etangs de Corot
A friend from Paris tipped us off about this hotel-restaurant-spa complex that sits about half-way between Versailles and Paris. The new owners took over in 2008 and revamped the hotel, which is a 20-minute drive from Paris but surrounded by bucolic scenery that inspied pre-Impressionist painter Jean-Baptiste Camille Corot. New additions include a chic Caudalie Spa and a new chef, who focuses on relaxed French fare. Restaurants Le Corot and more relaxed Le Cafes des Artistes sound like fantastic options for families who visit Versailles but don’t want to lunch in one of the town’s tourist-trap cafes. And if you want to add a spa treatment: the new Caudalie spa was designed by fashion duo Paul et Joe who also created a new suite for the hotel. www.etangs-corot.com
Paris: A Left Bank Discovery
The Hotel St. Vincent, a simple but stylish Left Bank hotel, has recently opened a sister property, the Lenox. We haven’t tried it yet, but for travelers looking for a convenient Parisian base on a budget, it’s well worth considering.
Pera Palace Hotel
Pera Palace Hotel, which was recently redone and is gorgeous, will become a part of Jumeirah.
Pink Sands Looking Brighter?
We’d heard that Harbour Island’s Pink Sands had gone downhill over the past few years. Last winter, the resort’s owners hired a new GM, Mark Kitchen, to help bring the hotel back to its former glory. Kitchen has a background running luxury retreats in Thailand, Bali and Fiji, all places known for their pampering, so insiders are hopeful that the complaints of lousy service are history.
Ritz Paris Renovation
We hear that Hôtel Ritz in Paris will close for 27 months for a renovation by Thierry Despont. Word is they are asking loyal guests like Anna Wintour for input on design.
Rocco Forte Goes To Egypt
Although the Egyptian tourism industry is far from recovered after this year’s revolution, at least one hotel company feels certain the country on its way back. Rocco Forte Hotels, known for luxury properties such as the Hotel de Russie, the Augustine and the Savoy, has announced that they’ll renovate and reopen the Luxor Hotel. The hotel was originally built in 1880 and sits next door to the famous Luxor temple.
Safari Family Find
Londolozi’s Pioneer Camp in South Africa is charting new territory with its family accommodations. Glass-enclosed sky walkways connect two suites, allowing children to have their own space with safe access to mom and dad’s room. A rarity in safari lodges, the connected rooms offer the ultimate luxury – privacy but with the knowledge that the kids are only a few well-protected steps away.
San Miguel Newcomer
Visitors to San Miguel will have a fashionable new address come January, when Rosewood opens their first property in the historic town. Set just four blocks from the famous El Jardin plaza, the sixty-seven-room hotel seamlessly blends into its surroundings with colonial-style architecture, traditional Mexican decor and airy plazas that connect the resort’s buildings. In keeping with the area’s artistic heritage (Diego Rivera grew up nearby and the town has gained fame for its artisans), a dedicated arts concierge will help guests design itineraries that can include visits to galleries, classes with local artists and excursions to antiques dealers specializing in artifacts from historic haciendas nearby. Families are also welcome and activities can be tailored to appeal to a younger crowd as well.
St Barth's Availability
We found the Holy Grail of holiday travel: 1 room left at a favorite hotel on St. Barths! Email bookings.
Thailand: Chang Rai
If you can’t get into the Four Seasons Tented Camp in Chang Rai or the prices are too steep, book the Anantara Golden Triange – they share the same elephant camp!
Traditional Home Recommends Indagare Membership
Traditional Home recommends the gift of Indagare for jetsetting friends.
Turning Point for Tucker's Point
Although Tucker’s Point received low marks from Indagare members at opening, there may be hope for East Coasters looking for an easy getaway to Bermuda this summer. Rosewood, known for highly ranked resorts such as the Rosewood Mayakoba, Jumby Bay and Caneel Bay, has taken over the property’s management. We have yet to visit but think Rosewood may be able to fix the initial problems with service and organization.
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