I love nothing more than experiencing something a little different when I travel. While road motels have their purpose, I much prefer staying someplace that will WOW me with a bit of extravagance. Whether it be being picked up at the airport in a Rolls Royce or having a private pool right outside my villa, I can’t imaging anything that says I’m worth it than being treated special.
Here are 5 of my favorite “over the top” experiences offered by hotels from here in Florida to Europe. ENJOY!
Fly Out & Dine In at Opal Sands Resort
- Clearwater Beach, Florida
For an unforgettable experience, book a stay in the lavish Opal Suite or Presidential Suite at the chic and modern Opal Sands Resort overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and upgrade your luxe getaway with the Fly Out, Dine In package. You’ll get to take in picturesque scenes of vibrant skies and the Clearwater Beach coastline on a helicopter tour during the magic hour of sunset. Upon returning to the resort, you’ll be welcomed back to a delicious 7-course meal prepared by the chefs at Sea-Guini on the privacy of your own expansive suite terrace, complete with coastal-inspired decor, multiple relaxation areas, and a dining area. The package starts at $1,332 for accommodations in the Opal Suite and $1,579 for accommodations in the Presidential Suite, and can be booked with code FLYDINE on www.opalsands.com.
Explore Barbados Like a Celeb
- Barbados
Photo courtesy: Apes Hill
For guests who can tear themselves away from The House’s stunning west coast views, champagne breakfast and jet-lag revival massage, explore Barbados like a celeb! The LX by The House package is perfect for those seeking an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience like private polo lessons at the championship Apes Hill Golf & Polo Club and a Mount Gay Rum tasting and tour. Let us not forget the VIP shopping experience (complete with a personal shopper, of course), luxury airport transfers, a private three-hour sunset catamaran sail and the option to island hop! Fly to the neighboring islands of Mustique or the Grenadines and jet back in time for dinner. For an added luxe touch, travelers can arrive by seaplane, luxury car or yacht. In case it’s of interest, we’ve also put together a fun idea of over-the-top packages and experiences at our hotels. The package starts at $4,500. To book, call 246-432-5525.
Italy Full Throttle
- Florence, Italy
Make the most of your Italy experience with an adrenaline-pumping, three-day “Italy Full Throttle” self-drive Ferrari tour that begins at Il Salviatino, a hand-restored 15th century villa in the rolling hills of Tuscany, overlooking the pulsing city of Florence. Guests can explore the property’s private gardens and indulge in an authentic Tuscan-style dinner at La Cucina del Salviatino before preparing to set off in style the next morning. Day two begins with an expert sport car driver introducing guests to the world of Ferrari, preparing them for the drive of a lifetime through the Tuscan countryside and into the Veneto region. The experience kicks off with a full Ferrari briefing and three models to choose from, and take off through the Tuscan countryside and into the Veneto region with views of medieval villages and the beautiful natural landscape of Italy. After stopping for a traditional balsamic vinegar tasting in Villa San Donnino and a visit to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, wander through the historic 14th-century Palazzo Victoria and admire the original artwork, stonework, preserved relics and ancient Medieval and Roman remains that are integrated into the 5-star property’s design before embarking on a gastronomic journey at the in-house restaurant, Borsari 36. Package is based on availability, with rates varying by season. For more information, email info@salviatino.com.
Photo credit: Al Argueta
Extreme Atitlán
- Guatemala
Casa Palopo is a lakeside home turned boutique hotel surrounded by three magnificent volcanoes and 12 charming indigenous Mayan villages. The Extreme in Atitlan package shows travelers the best of the villages with a thrilling helicopter ride to the hotel, and a hike on the San Pedro Volcano. The package includes four nights accommodations, welcome cocktails and Guatemalan bites on the property’s main terrace, an exciting hiking excursion to the San Pedro Volcano, a paragliding excursion, and helicopter transfer back to Guatemala City. Advance reservations required. Package starts at $3,085. To book, email reservations@casapalopo.com or call (888) 479-6026. Rates valid through December 31, 2017.
Thrills, Then Chill
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
Photo credit: Jose Gutierrez
Located In the trendy neighborhood of Condado, situated between the city and the beach, the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino serves as a perfect home base for travelers seeking a fun escape with a combination of adventure and relaxation. Getting the best of both worlds, guests can enjoy mouthwatering cuisine, picturesque views, prime beach access, and a lively atmosphere on-property and can venture off-property for adventures. Guests can do just that by taking advantage of the resort’s new “Thrills, Then Chill” package, which includes oceanfront accommodations, daily breakfast, a half-day tour of El Yunque rainforest for two (includes hiking and swimming in La Coca Falls, and more!), as well as a 30-minute back and neck massage at the resort’s spa for two to unwind after a long adventurous day. Rates begin at $402 per night, based on double occupancy. To book, visit www.MarriottSanJuan.com and use the promo code F10.
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