Italy is one of the most praised and desired destinations of the world. The weather, the culture, the food, the people… It has everything that would tempt you to go. As much as Annie loved Rome, Venice and Florence… she adored Cinque Terre. She had the chance to visit this uncommon destination this past May. These five small villages are situated on the west coast, north of Tuscany, in the region of Liguria (near Portofino). They are perched on the edge of a cliff and connected by pedestrian paths. The main path off the Mediterranean has an unbelievable view, which is simply magnificent. You cross lemon trees, olive trees, vines, cactuses, exotic flowers under a radiant sun and a cool Mediterranean breeze. Each village is typically Italian with a welcoming, warm atmosphere, where it feels good to just rest with a cold beer in a trattoria, or savor gelato while strolling through the narrow colorful streets. Two of the villages have a beach where you can rest after a scenic day of walking. If you prefer, you may also go from village to village by train or by ferry. The fact that there are no cars in any of the villages creates a very calming ambiance. Please call Annie for more information.

Eirini hosts aboard the Regent Navigator and loved it! Departing from the French Riviera gave her the time to explore the beauty of Nice and Monaco. What a great start to a Mediterranean cruise! Visiting the ports of Florence, Portofino, Menorca, Saint Tropez and Valencia. Eirini had the opportunity to host a magnificent lunch of Paella at Mallorca hotspot . This wonderful cruise ended in Barcelona where she spent a few days exploring the wonders of Gaudi and the beautiful Gothic quarter. Eirini loved the Regent cruise line, especially since it was completely casual and had lots of extended families aboard. The amazing food and the all inclusive Regent experience makes her anxious to go back in 2008. The staff aboard was ready for everything and very entertaining.

More and more people are starting to take care of themselves and their bodies and are looking for time to rest from their busy everyday lives. That’s what Eugenia was looking for when she found a spa located in the most natural and peaceful environment… the desert of Utah. The Red Mountain Spa is the perfect destination for a relaxing and energizing vacation. Located near St. George in Utah, in the heart of the Grand Circle where you can find beautiful red mountains, canyons, and the setting for infinite outdoor and fun recreational activities. Red Mountain offers an amazing selection of quality activities and excursions for fitness enthusiasts, in addition to all the pampering, luxury and relaxation you expect from a full-menu spa. Among these activities, you will find horseback riding, rock climbing, biking, a large selection of aerobic classes and daily guided hikes for all levels. The room rate includes all aerobic classes, the morning guided hikes and three meals a day. Breakfast and lunch is offered buffet style and dinner is served seated. Every meal is made with all natural and fresh ingredients and nutritional information is posted for each dish and food served. With everything that this spas has to offer, you will never find yourself with nothing to do and you will certainly return home feeling healthier and energized. For more information, please contact Eugenia.

Every so often you find a hotel that inspires relaxation just by its visual presence.  That is The Tides.  Only room for 70 people it is a complete contradiction to the Mayan Riviera. No glitz, no glamour just a solid product.  Each villa is tucked into the jungle surroundings with its own pool and privacy.  Your choice of wonderful handmade soaps and Molton Brown products in the bath. The service at the restaurant was over the top with the staff moving tables around on the grass and the beach so you can eat with whatever view you choose. The spa is peaceful and restful with the treatments having a Mayan flair, including a healing cleansing incense ceremony when you first arrive.  Can’t see staying here more than 4-5 days (the average stay is 4 nights) because you would go to mush. Makes me think a lot of Parrot Cay from the point of view of complete relaxation. The best part, the outdoor shower, completely private, has amazing pressure, and you are standing in the privacy of your villa surrounded by ferns and breathing in fresh air.  Not sure why they have indoor showers, but the option is yours.  Definitely for couples, or singles looking to getaway, read a good book, and relax.