The Best Luxury Romantic Getaways Along the French and Italian Riviera

Nothing beats the allure of the French and Italian Riviera, and nowhere is there a more romantic spot to travel around. Indeed, the French and Italian Riviera offers a spectacular luxury romantic getaway, boasting an agreeable climate, wonderful sea views, a stunning coastline, delicious culinary delights, and a luxurious way of life, all just waiting to be discovered.

Read on to uncover some of the best spots along the French and Italian Riviera to woo your loved one. Explore this wonderful coastal destination aboard your very own luxury yacht charter for the ultimate experience.

French Riviera: best luxury romantic getaways destinations

Escape the crowds and visit the Porquerolles Islands

Visit the Porquerolles Islands, a trio of islands nestled in azure waters just a 10-minute boat ride away from the southernmost tip of the Cote d’Azur.

The crescent-shaped island of Porquerolles is the biggest and most well-known, and boasts secluded beaches nestled amidst limestone cliffs and a quaint village dating back to the early 1800s. If you’re looking to enjoy a French Riviera yacht charter away from the madding crowds, then the Porquerolles are for you.

The majority of the Porquerolles are a designated national park, offering a secluded sanctuary and a wonderful range of wildlife and stunning beauty at every turn. At just four miles long by two miles wide, and with cars banned, Porquerolles is best explored by pedal power.

Visit the 14^th century fort Sainte Agathe and explore the Cap D’Arme lighthouse. Round out the day with a delicious meal at one of the island’s few restaurants – Le Pelagos and The Liver at Le Mas du Langoustier are two popular spots. Alternatively pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the island’s myriad beauty spots – the ideal way to spend time with your loved one.

Explore Saint Jean Cap Ferrat

No romantic getaway would be complete without visiting Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, a beautiful destination that boasts old-world glamour.

This forested peninsula sits between Nice and Monaco and regularly attracts the world’s wealthiest. Relax on sandy coves lapped by blue waters, stroll along coastal footpaths, explore neighbouring quaint villages and towns such as Villefranche, and revel at some of the world’s most lavish resorts, including the Grand-Hotel du Cap Ferrat, a Riviera institution.

The glitz and glam of Monaco is also within easy reach, making this stunning destination a great spot from which to explore the surrounding region.

Italian Riviera: best luxury romantic getaway destinations

Enjoy the glitz and glam of Capri

 If you’re after a getaway filled with luxurious glamour then head to the island of Capri. Anchor at the Marina Grande and enjoy everything that this stunning island has to offer, including wonderful natural beauty, world-class shopping, and mouth-watering cuisine.

Capri offers a wonderful range of hiking opportunities, with trails criss-crossing the island. Be sure to check out the Pizzolungo, a trail that will take you through an ancient forest grotto, the Casa Malaparte, and then to a breathtaking view of the sea and the Faraglioni rocks, three towering rocks formations that dramatically rise out of the Mediterranean Sea just off the island’s coast. Alternatively hike up the 921 Phoenician stone stopes that link Marina Grande to the Anacapri and be rewarded with some of the island’s most spectacular views.

The island of Capri is famed for its shopping, offering the ideal destination to treat yourself or a loved one during a luxury romantic getaway. For some of the world’s most luxurious brands, head to Capri town and explore from the Piazzetta and the Via Camerelle. For a local keepsake be sure to purchase some Limoncello, an after-dinner liqueur made from the island’s sun-ripened lemons, as well as a pair of Capri Sandals, flat sandals custom-made to perfectly fit.

Once the sun sets, enjoy Capri’s abundance of award-winning restaurants, then head to one of the island’s myriad of chic clubs and night-time hotspots where you can dance until the sun comes up.

Discover Portofino

Pastel-coloured houses and stunning villas hug the coastline of Portofino, popular port of call with those looking for a low-key yet elegant destination along the heart of the Italian Riviera.

A small coastal village, Portofino can easily be explored in a day or two. An up-scale destination, you’ll find a plethora of luxury designer boutiques, alongside quaint local souvenir shops selling a wide range of keepsakes, in addition to local art galleries, yachting boutiques, and jewellers.

Visit the 16-century fortress and museum – Castello Brown –  to learn more about the region’s fascination culture and heritage, or simply enjoy a romantic meal at one of the many restaurants that spill across the yacht-filled harbour, offering fabulous uninterrupted views across the Italian Riviera.

Cruise along Cinque Terre

 The Cinque Terre offers the ultimate luxury romantic getaway, a chain of five beautiful villages along the Italian Riviera – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The perfectly preserved villages, coastline, and surrounding countryside are all part of the Cinque Terre National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Exploring the stunning surrounding countryside via a series of trails, traversing the village’s winding cobbled streets, and enjoying a leisurely meal at a waterfront restaurant are all di rigueur when in Cinque Terre.

Make sure you enjoy a glass (or two) of Sciacchetra, a Cinque Terre wine produced by grapevines that surround the village of Manarola. If you wish to enjoy a day on the beach head to Monterosso, the only village in Cinque Terre that boasts a white sandy beach that is filled with sun loungers in the summer. 

No matter what experience you desire, the French and Italian Riviera offer a luxury romantic getaway unlike any other.

from Carmen Edelson – Luxury Travel Blogger

3 Must Go Places You Should Try When Visiting Cancun

Sitting on a beautiful 21-kilometer long, 400-meter wide island off the northern coast of Yucatan is the stunning Cancun. It is a luxury resort built with gorgeous tourist infrastructure. Cancun is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Mexico, charming the hearts of more than four million tourists every year. What would you love about Cancun? You’ll have tons of fun things to enjoy, white-sand beaches that will surely take your breath away, large coral reefs to see, and beautiful weather that will make you want to stay forever. If you’re planning to visit Cancun soon, you should not waste the opportunity to see all that it has to offer.

Here are three places you definitely have to try when you visit Cancun:

Chichen Itza

You wouldn’t want to miss the chance to see this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Day trips to Chichen Itza are one of the most popular tours since it is one of Mexico’s largest and best-restored archaeological sites. It was settled by the Mayans more than 1000 years ago, and it includes various Chac-Mool statues and important buildings like the pyramid El Castillo. You can even join a tour accompanied by a private archaeologist. You’ll have to wake up as early as 5 am, but you’ll have a chance to explore the place before it opens to other tourists. You’ll want to stay in a hotel that is near major pick up points for tours and such. You might have a hard time searching for the best area to stay in Cancun since almost all of them are good choices. Choose one that has the amenities you prefer, and can cater to all your travel needs.

Cancun Underwater Museum

One of the places you must try in Cancun is its underwater museum. It was set up in 2009 when the Cancun National Marine Park was damaged by a storm. This attraction’s main goal is the art of conservation. The sculptures are the focus of this art collection, and they are a delight to explore. There are more than 500 must-see sculptures that are spread across two lovely underwater galleries. They have been put together by six artists from Mexico and Britain. If you’re not into diving, you can still access the Cancun Underwater Museum through glass-bottom boats.

Isla Mujeres

When you say “Cancun”, one of the things that first come to mind is the exquisite Isla Mujeres (Island of Women). It’s a magnificent island located about 13 kilometers from the mainland. It’s widely popular with surfers for the large waves on its east coast. Meanwhile, divers are enraptured by the abundant marine life around the coral reefs of Garrafon Natural Reef Park. Beach goers who prefer a less hectic pace love Isla Mujeres too due to the limited traffic.

Cancun is nothing short of a paradise here on Earth. If you’re planning your next vacation, you should definitely keep Cancun in mind. Don’t forget these three wonderful destinations, so you can get the most out of your visit.

from Carmen Edelson – Luxury Travel Blogger

Marina Bay Sands: Staying at Singapore’s Iconic Luxury Hotel

When I found out my Azamara Cruise through South East Asia was departing from Singapore, I knew which luxury hotel I wanted to stay at. The iconic Marina Bay Sands is one of the most recognizable hotels in the world, and was recently featured in the 2018 hit movie Crazy Rich Asians.

With over 2,500 rooms and suites, along with an infinity pool, observation deck, shopping mall, gardens, restaurants and more, the size of this property is absolutely staggering. It honestly feels more like it’s own city than a hotel! I was absolutely blown away and only wish I had stayed for more than 2 nights.

Checking In

As I mentioned above, the Marina Bay Sands has a thousands of hotel rooms. You have to bear that in mind when you go to check in, as there’s almost always a line but it moves quickly. They have everything down to a science. The atrium is massively impressive, and lined with restaurants, a bar and a few shops.

The Rooms

I had the pleasure of staying in a Deluxe King Garden View room which overlooked the famous Gardens by the Bay. I could soak in the gorgeous views of the gardens from my floor-to-ceiling windows. My king bed was beyond comfortable and I enjoyed the blackout curtains which helped me recover from jet lag and get a restful night’s sleep. I had plenty of space, with a lounger near my bed, along with an executive writing desk.

In my room, I was greeted with a delicious tray of macarons and a welcome letter; I always love these little touches!

The bathroom was very spacious with a huge walk-in, glass enclosed shower. You can expect luxury bath products, as well as a microfibre and Terry bathrobe.

My room included 24-hour room service, complimentary high speed wifi, and entry to the award-winning Banyan Tree Fitness Club. It’s important to note that if you book your room directly with Marina Bay Sands, you will get early access to their incredible Infinity Pool on the 57th floor!

Infinity Pool

Speaking of the Infinity Pool, I was so beyond excited to see this in person. Marina Bay Sands has the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool that looks out onto the glittering skyline of Singapore. The view absolutely did not disappoint! If you’re wanting photos without the crowds, I’d recommend getting there as early as possible. However, this pool is exclusive to hotel guests which is nice.

You’ll find that there are 3 sections up here: an adults-only area, a family-friendly section, and a dedicated children’s pool. I love that there’s a balance between adults enjoying this pool as well as families! Their luxurious poolside loungers are so comfortable and you can order drinks and food throughout the day. The view is both incredible during the day and at night so be sure to see it at both times.

Banyan Tree Spa 

If lounging by the rooftop pool with a glass of champagne in hand isn’t relaxing enough, then you definitely need to visit the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa at Marina Bay Sands. On my first full day in Singapore, I headed straight to the spa to ease my muscles and tensions after a long flight from the States.

At Banyan Tree, you can escape to a world of tranquility thanks to their calm surroundings and expert staff. Set on the 55th floor, the interiors are inspired by an Oriental water garden. Their spa menu offers a range of full body massages, holistic treatments, as well as calming baths and facials. The massages are based on evolving techniques that have passed through the hands of many generations in Asia. Every person who has a treatment here is treated to a complimentary 30-minute “Calm Time” which involves a foot bath, refreshments, and, of course, relaxation.

I opted for a traditional Balinese massage. This is a medium to strong massage (always give your preference) and my therapist applied deep thumb and palm pressure to fix my aches and pains from traveling. This definitely helps with muscle tensions, uplifting your senses and leaves you feeling fully invigorated.  My massage was 60 minutes long, which is the perfect amount of time!

Dining

Marina Bay Sands has no shortage of food & beverage outlets. There are more than 80 restaurants, offering local and international cuisines, both in the hotel itself and the larger Marina Bay Sands complex. This includes several dining venues led by celebrity chefs: Adrift by David Myers, Bread Street Kitchen & Bar by Gordon Ramsay, Bistro and Oyster Bar by Daniel Boulud, and Long Chim by David Thompson, in addition to two Michelin starred restaurants, Waku Ghin by Tetsuya Wakuda and CUT by Wolfgang Puck. Of course, it was impossible to try everything during my stay, but the dinners I had – at the Lavo Italian restaurant and Spago restaurant, both located on the rooftop – were excellent.

We enjoyed a buffet breakfast every morning at Adrift Restaurant which was located in the lobby area of the 2nd tower. This restaurant serves delicious, Asian-inspired dishes.

Adrift Restaurant at The Marina Bay Sands Hotel

You can unwind over cocktails and light bites any time at the 24-hour Renku Bar & Lounge!

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

Shopaholics will rejoice in the rows of luxury retailers at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands^®, which houses the largest collection of coveted designer boutiques in Asia. Complementing the retail space are delectable dining option as well.

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

As you can see, it is very easy to stay at the Marina Bay Sands and never leave the property thanks to their incredible range of dining and entertainment! Whether you’re traveling alone, with a partner, or your entire family, there is something for everyone at this luxurious hotel.

from Carmen Edelson – Luxury Travel Blogger

Visiting Archeological Sites in Peru with Yampu Tours

On my recent trip to Peru with Yampu Tours, I had the opportunity to explore many parts of the country with their local guides. From Lima to Cusco, I enjoyed getting to know the history, culture, and culinary delights of the Peruvian people. A trip to Peru isn’t complete without visiting the famous Machu Picchu in the Sacred Valley. However, this archeological site made famous by the Incas isn’t the only ancient place we explored.

From iconic sights to going off the beaten path, Yampu Tours shared the best of the best with us while traveling through Peru!

Huaca Pucllana:

Our trip began in Lima where we visited a must-see ancient site – Huaca Pucllana!

Between 200 to 700 AD, this was once a great clay and adobe pyramid, built from seven staggered platforms. Historians have concluded that this was an important place for ceremonial and administrative business. The people here were most known for mastering a fantastic irrigation system. Lima is surrounded by a desert climate, so this helped carry water from springs and rivers to the towns.

Next came the Wari people after 700 AD, where they used Huaca Pucllana as mostly a burial site for the nobility. In fact, the first fully intact tomb from this time was found recently in 2008. Now when you visit, you can tour the grounds, visit the museum with artifacts found from the site, or dine in their high end restaurant that overlooks the ruins.

Tambomachay:

Once we were in Cusco, we spent an entire day with Yampu Tours exploring historic sites outside of the city center. Our first stop was Tambomachay, which was developed by the Inca Empire from about the 13th century to the mid 1500s.

Consisting of a series of aqueducts, canals and waterfalls that run through terraced rocks, these were known as the Inca fountains. The exact purpose of Tambomachay is still uncertain. However, some historians guess that it was either a spa resort for the Incan elite, or used as a military outpost that guarded the approach to Cusco.

Puka Pukara:

Our next stop was Puka Pukara, also known as the Red Fortress. Since it is a fortress, historians are certain that these are military ruins from the Inca Empire.

The structure is made out of huge walls, staircases, and terraces which helped defend nearby Cusco and the surrounding areas. It is suspected that this fortress was built in a rush because of how irregularlyly shaped and stacked the stones are in the walls. Because there are traces of luxurious baths, plazas, and fountains that once stood on this site, historians believe this was also a place of rest for Incan nobles.

Sacsayhuamán:

Unlike the stones found at Puka Pukara, Sacsayhuamán is an Incan wall complex that was just about perfect in terms of engineering and construction.

Here you can discover some of the biggest blocks ever found from the Incan Empire. Across the 3-stepped sections of the remaining walls, there are huge stones stacked together. It seems as if each piece of stone was custom carved to fit in their given space. Sacsayhuamán is believed to be the remains of a much larger fortress that once stood here. This is certainly an impressive site to behold!

Maras Salt Mines:

Located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, we stopped at the Maras Salt Mines on our Yampu Tour.

The landscape here is both unique and stunning. Even more impressive is the fact that these salt ponds are still used exactly as the Incas once used them. In return, the salt gathered here is some of the best in the world! These polygon-shaped ponds carefully control the flow of water and are closely monitored. To this day, the salt ponds are assigned to members of the community and the size of a salt pond depends on the size of the family.

Moray – Kjuchimuyu:

Another fascinating archaeological site created by the Incas is Moray, located just west of Maras.

Located on a high plateau of over 11,000 feet, you can easily look out over many terraced circular depressions. There is an irrigation system here so most people believe this was used for farming back in the day. Fun fact: the great depth and design of Moray creates a significant temperature difference of almost 30 degrees Fahrenheit between the top and the bottom of the site!

Machu Picchu:

Last but certainly not least, we visited the bucket-list worthy site of Machu Picchu.

From Cusco, we took a train through the Sacred Valley and up to the town of Aguas Calientes where we stayed for a night. From the town, we boarded a bus to Machu Picchu and met our local guide there. This Lost City of the Incas used to be a flourishing agricultural and ceremonial site. This was the gateway to the beautiful jungle marsh of the Inca Empire!

Seeing the famous ruins amongst the bright green mountain peaks is a memorable experience. The llamas that call Machu Picchu home are so adorable and fun to photograph.  I absolutely loved strolling through the ancient citadel, learning about the magic and mystery of this place. Despite the crowds that visit Machu Picchu, it is a must-see when visiting Peru. Yampu provided an excellent local guide to make our Peruvian adventures complete!

from Carmen Edelson – Luxury Travel Blogger

4 Reasons to Make Prague Your Next Winter City-Break

Prague has long been a must-see European city, with tourists from all over the world heading to the historic Czech capital to experience the culture and take in its best-loved sites over the colder winter months. Why this seems to be couldn’t be clearer when looking at the stunning architecture — a unique combination of brightly-coloured Baroque buildings, Gothic churches and picturesque streets — intertwined with a unique atmosphere that truly comes alive during the festive season.

Known as the City of a Hundred Spires, Prague is a spectacular place to spend your next winter city break. This is why…

#1 Famous Christmas Markets

One of the reasons tourists flock to Prague, particularly at such a festive time of year, is to immerse themselves in the seasonal celebrations and winter culture. An obligatory activity is to visit the Prague Christmas Markets. Widely renowned as some of the best in Europe, they are open from December 1 until January 6 and cannot be missed.

The two main markets are based in Old Town Square and Wenceslaus Square. The picturesque surroundings and combination of glittering Christmas decorations, traditional stalls and the scent of local delicacies on the cold winter air make this a one of a kind experience. Tourists can expect to try some amazing food and pick up unique gifts (such as fine jewelry and wooden toys) all under the shadow of a huge twinkling Christmas tree. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds then Prague Castle, Peace Square, and Republic Square also have their own smaller Christmas markets too.

#2 Incredible Architecture

As mentioned above, Prague’s unique architecture is almost fairytale-like. Head over to Prague Castle to witness the beautiful 9th-century fortress and immerse yourself in the history of the city. While currently the official office of the President of the Czech Republic, in the past the castle has housed everyone from kings of Bohemia to Holy Roman emperors.

Another must-see during the winter is Prague Old Town. There you’ll find the beautiful Tyn church lit up to mark the Christmas period with the area’s streets adorned in lights. The architectural highlight of a trip to Prague’s Old Town has to be the Old Town Hall. Built in the 14th century, the hall also features an astronomical clock, which is currently the 3rd oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still in operation. There are also some truly beautiful luxury hotels in the heart of the city that are architecturally admirable in their own right. The imposing facade of Carlo IV, The Dedica Anthology Hotel is just 10 minutes walk from Wenceslas Square and boasts impressive 19th-century décor throughout. Don’t forget there are walking tours available across the city, to ensure you don’t miss anything during your stay.

#3 Unmissable Food and Drink

When it comes to food in Prague, nothing beats sampling the local cuisine. Top of the list for any visitor has to be zelňačka or saurkraut cabbage soup. While this dish may not sound appetising to outsiders, the soup is sure to warm you up when temperatures are falling around freezing. Zelňačka is also widely-renowned to be the city’s best hangover cure, should you find yourself in the area after too many New Year’s Eve drinks. Other must-tries are Palačinky (Czech crepes) which can be filled with sweet treats including jam, cream and nuts, or savoury options like spinach, cheese and meat.

Another warming winter snack is trdelník, a traditional rolled pastry dusted with cinnamon, sugar and nuts. Finally, when it comes to drinks, svařák (mulled wine) warmed with spices and enjoyed over a catch up in one of the local bars provides the perfect end to a day of sightseeing.

#4 Unique Cultural Events

Aside from all the usual sights to see and gastronomical delights to sample, there are many other events taking place this time of year that make a winter visit to Prague a unique experience. One of the most long-awaited events in the city’s calendar is St Nicholas (Mikulas) Eve on December 5th. You’re likely to see groups of locals dressed as angels, devils and Saint Mikulas himself approaching children in the streets and asking them to recite a poem or story. The 3 characters determine whether children have behaved well enough throughout the year, giving those who have a gift while those who haven’t are given potatoes or coal. The tradition goes these naughty children are also forced into the devil’s sack and taken away. It’s a fascinating sight to behold with the main event taking place between 5pm and 8pm in Wenceslas Square.

During the winter you can also watch the talented choirs and musicians at the International Festival of Advent and Christmas Music. One of the oldest of its kind, the festival sees choirs from around the world take to the stage for a series of outdoor concerts in the Old Town Square. Finally, if you’re lucky enough to be in Prague for New Year’s Eve, don’t miss the unforgettable firework display. You can look forward to the spectacular event as the clock strikes 12am, with crowds gathering along the banks of the Vltava River, as well as in Wenceslas Square to watch.

from Carmen Edelson – Luxury Travel Blogger

An insider’s guide to the best bars in Monaco for Champagne

Nothing quite rings in the New Year like sipping a glass of the finest Champagne, and there is no better place in the world to do this than in Monaco.

One of the world’s most glamorous destinations, Monaco has long been frequented by the world’s rich and famous. Indeed, the principality is renowned for its lavish hotels, award-winning restaurants, and decadent bars. Monaco’s real estate is also amongst some of the most expensive in the world, so it’s no surprise that in this wealth-fuelled destination that there is no shortage of spectacularly lavish bars. Whether you are after a perfect vintage or some of the most exclusive Champagnes, check out our definitive guide to the best bars in Monaco to see and be seen.

Best bars in Monaco to sip Champagne

Le Bar American

Located in the lavish Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo, this glamorous destination is the ideal spot to enjoy a glass of your favourite Champagne while soaking up the wonderful views. One of the best bars in Monaco, it boasts a warm wood interior, sumptuous leather armchairs, and soft lighting. With its old-world cosy ambience, Le Bar American simply oozes glamour and sophistication. Live jazz plays every night with piano, double bass, and drums too. 

Buddha Bar

 Methuselah’ bottles of Champagne reign supreme at this iconic bar in Monaco, often dubbed as the temple of clubbing and one of the best bars in Monaco. Enjoy some of the finest Champagnes in this East meets West destination while the world’s best DJs take to the decks. Feast on delicious Asian cuisine, then party the night away.

Blue Gin

 Located within the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, this sophisticated bar in Monaco is a chic and elegant destination. Head to the bar’s beautiful outdoor heated terrace, perched right on the Mediterranean Sea, and enjoy a glass of Champagne coupled with delicious finger food. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, the bar’s resident DJs plays disco funk-inspired tunes.

Saphir 24

 A relaxed bar boasting a sublime vista, Saphir 24 is located within the Fairmont Monte Carlo and is a popular bar in Monaco. Its wine lounge is the ideal spot for everything from romantic nights out to a wild lunch with 20 of your closest friends. Feast on a delicious menu boasting a handpicked selection of small bites, starters, and mains, all inspired by the bounty of the Mediterranean.

Horizon Deck, Restaurant & Champagne Bar

 Another popular bar in Monaco located within the Fairmont, the Horizon Deck is a must-visit for lovers of Champagne. Boasting an absolutely stunning deck with breathtaking views across the Mediterranean Sea, Horizon Deck offers a wonderful selection of Champagnes and a delicious menu utilising fresh seasonal produce.

Crystal Bar

 A chic bar in Monaco located within the stunning Hotel Hermitage Monte Carlo, Crystal Bar is a wonderful destination to enjoy wine, cigars, and caviar – come here to live your best life. Soak up the fabulous sea views whilst enjoying these bars warm and welcoming atmosphere.

 Whatever atmosphere or style of bar in Monaco you fancy, you are guaranteed to find it in this lavish destination.

from Carmen Edelson – Luxury Travel Blogger