Got any plans for New Years Eve? Why not plan the ultimate year end getaway and head to Singapore to usher in the New Year with a night under the stars.

Toast the dawn of a new year in style at Capella Singapore where they will serve up creative world-class cuisine, fashion and musical entertainment in the lap of relaxed, unhurried luxury. Be sure to take advantage of their “Under the Stars New Years Experience” package, exclusive for those who appreciate the very best. This year’s experience includes:

-A two night accommodation for two
-A welcome Champagne amenity
-A fabulous Mediterranean Bohemian New Year’s Eve Party by the pool with stunning views of the South China Sea as a back drop. (Bohemian-chic attire encouraged)
-A delicious five course gourmet dinner including Champagne and full premium open bar
-World class entertainment by DJs Brahms & Co. and Karina Serbina on a floating stage above the cascading pools.
-Recovery Brunch on New Year’s Day!
-A New Year’s Day dinner with a Fashion Extravaganza by Josef Statkus.
-After dinner Mojitos, Champagne and Tsarskaya Vodka at Bob’s Bar with live entertainment.
-On January 2 receive an indulgent barbecue lunch with free-flow of rose wine or beer!

Can you say party? This New Year’s Eve bash at the Capella Singapore is sure to be one to remember!

If you are looking for a magical, unforgettable experience to celebrate the new year look no further than the fabulous Barceló Asia Gardens in Costa Blanca, Spain.

This luxury hotel is offering “The Colours of India” program where you and your family can choose from a one to seven days stay in a Deluxe room. Along with your accommodation this program includes:

-A welcome cocktail event on December 31st
-A special New Years Eve Gala dinner serving a Mediterranean menu spiced up with a touch of Indian cuisine
-Indian music with traditional dances
-A Bollywood show
-Grapes of good fortune
-An open bar until dawn
-And on New Year’s morning you will be able to enjoy their special New Year’s Brunch!

If you are bringing along the kids, “The Colours of India” program at Barcelo Asia Gardens has them covered too, they will receive a special Gala dinner of their own as well as the hotels professional entertainment team giving them a wide range of activities making sure they will have a whale of a time while you can enjoy your evening without worries!

After navigating the roadways from LAX to Newport, we arrived at Pelican Hill just as the sun was setting over the Pacific Ocean. The Resort at Pelican Hill is situated between the cities of Newport Beach and Laguna Beach.

The entire resort is Italian-inspired, and landscaped with olive and citrus trees. We were swiftly escorted from the grand lobby on a short drive to the resorts gated Bungalow area. We were able to park our rental car right outside our front doors! Although the resort is on over 500 acres, everything is accessible and you don’t need to shuttle everywhere.

Our Bungalow was cozy with a limestone fireplace, private ocean-view terrace, wood beam ceiling, separate living area and huge bathroom. Perfect for me and my best girlfriend that was traveling with me; two ladies need lots of space to get ready!

For a few hours before dinnertime we kicked back in our room around the fireplace, enjoying a glass of Palladio Chianti and some great conversation. It was off to dinner at nearby Javier’s for some Mexican. It was definitely the place to be seen in Newport.

We set out for a full day of shopping and sightseeing in Newport. We hit Fashion Island, which is owned by Irvine Company who owns the resort; there we found fantastic shops and department stores. Later we headed to Newport Harbor, and spent time peeking in and out of the quaint boutiques and walking along the streets taking in the ocean living lifestyle.

Returning to the resort in the later afternoon, we thought we ought to check out the Coliseum Pool, which is perfect circle pool 136 feet in diameter. Its very impressive and aptly named as it feels like you’re in a roman coliseum.

We sat out on the veranda of the Coliseum Grill for an afternoon cocktail overlooking the pool, overlooking the golf course, overlooking the ocean! There are actually two golf courses and an impressive spa called the Acqua Colonnade. If you’re planning to keep fit during visit you won’t have trouble here. The resort has impressive fitness facilities including a range of programs including yoga, Pilates, dance and my favorite; the guided Crystal Cove fitness walk.

If being on the water is more your style, you can take advantage of nearby boating activities in Newport Harbor or take the shuttle to Crystal Cove State Park; where you can swim, surf, dive and explore the trails.

If your stay on the Pacific Coast is more long term then my two days, you’ll want to look into the Villa experience. The Villas are a private enclave within the resort. You can choose from 2, 3 and 4-bedrooms. The Villas have their own staff and all-access to the resort amenities.

I can only imagine what it would be like to experience Pelican Hill over the holiday season. They have fully decorated Bungalows available for Christmas! Might be nice to have someone take care of all the trimmings this year, including the feast.

The hardest part of traveling is usually picking just one destination that you want to go to. Why not make it easy on yourself and pick them all?

No epic journey is ever complete without a great cocktail to kick start it all. The around the world cocktail will inspire you to seek and discover all that the world has to offer and with Kiwi Collection, we bring you nothing but the best from every corner of the world.

How to Make your Around the World Cocktail:

-    ¼ oz Cognac
-    ¼ oz Crème de Noyaux
-    ¾ oz Dark Rum
-    1 ¼ oz Orange Juice
-    1 oz Sweet and Sour Mix
-    Crushed Ice

In a blender add all of the ingredients and blend until smooth. Pour into a wine goblet and serve!

Some of the best places in the world to get your fabulous Around the World cocktail:

Regent Beijing:
Located just minutes away from the famous Forbidden City, Wangfujing Shopping and Tiananmen Square is the Regent Beijing, one of China’s best luxury hotels. Featuring five restaurants and lounges, a fabulous spa sanctuary, a huge adult pool and an exclusive selection of luxury boutique shops, this hotel is sure to satisfy any discerning traveler.

Tivoli Victoria:
Golf lovers rejoice! The Tivoli Victoria in beautiful Vilamoura, Portugal is home to one of Europe’s best golf courses designed by the ledged Arnold Palmer. This luxury five star resort is perfect for business or leisure with state of the art conference rooms, an exclusive nearby beach club, delicious gourmet cuisine by Chef Pedro Pereira and a touch of Far East at their Spa by Banyan Tree.

Jumeirah Essex House:
Since 1931 the Jumeirah Essex House has been the gem of New York. Situated on Central Park South and minutes away for shopping and Broadway this is the perfect spot to get a fabulous New York experience.

Sivory Punta Cana:
Craving a luxury Caribbean getaway like no other? Look no further than the Sivory Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. Creating a harmony with its natural surroundings, this luxury resort takes relaxation to a whole new level and makes sure that your every need will be met. Here you can rediscover the pleasure of food and dine on world class delicacies along with a great glass of wine from there cellar featuring more than 8000 bottles.

Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver:
Set in the heart of the city surrounded by a neighborhood of luxury shops, amazing mountain views and the world famous Stanley Park is the tallest building in the city the Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver in Canada. Offering spacious rooms, amazing cuisine from internationally acclaimed chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and an indulgent holistic spa sets the scene for a truly unforgettable west coast experience.

Madinat Jumeirah:
Madinat Jumeirah is the famous Arabian Resort of Dubai paying tribute to its heritage and is styled to resemble an ancient Arabian citadel. Comprising of three separate properties with spas, restaurants, shopping and activities, your experience here will truly be like no other and will feel like a whole new world unto itself.

Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago:
Located alongside the Chicago River is the city’s most enviable address, the Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago.  Sophisticatedly decorated with custom designed furnishings, floor to ceiling windows, fully equipped kitchens, and attentive service at your disposal makes this the ideal hotel choice for any traveler.

Outrigger Serenity Terraces Resort Phuket:
Get ready to indulge in a private tropical escape in Thailand at the beautiful Outrigger Serenity Terraces Resort Phuket. With ocean facing suits and floor to ceiling windows for breathtaking views, private pools and beach-side dining options, this one luxury getaway  that you will never forget.

The Standard, New York:
The Standard, New York is located in Manhattan’s thriving Meat Packing district of New York and is known as one of the city’s most fashionable neighborhoods full of exclusive clubs, hip restaurants and lovely boutiques. Showcasing unparalleled views of Lower Manhattan and the Hudson River this hotel is the place to see and be seen.

Tribe – The Village Market Hotel:
Take a cultural journey though the farthest corners of Africa at Tribe – The Village Market Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya. Every room at this hotel is a testament of world class comfort with a chic design with an emphasis on detail and luxury.

It appears that Jennifer Aniston and Conde Nast Traveler readers have something in common…they’re both fans of the One & Only Palmilla Resort in Los Cabos.

Spotted enjoying a luxurious getaway at One & Only Palmilla Resort just this month, the lovely Jennifer Aniston retreated once again to one of her favorite spots in the Baja California Peninsula. Was the trip’s purpose to contemplate lingering feelings for Brad Pitt? Who cares! She’s in paradise. Let’s leave her alone for once.

But there is a reason Condé Nast Traveler readers selected this property as one of the best places to stay in the world, for the past five years. (And why Jen has returned to one of her and Brad’s favorite destinations from the past.) Having experienced a lavish $90 million rebuilding and expansion in 2004, this incredible property is the ultimate private retreat complete with intuitive butler service and other countless thoughtful details scattered throughout the resort.

Attracted by the privacy of this gorgeous resort in Mexico, and the deep-sea fishing location, some of the One & Only Palmilla’s earliest guests includes celebrities like John Wayne, Bing Crosby, Lucille Ball and United States President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Book a vacation here and who knows…maybe you could be lounging by the pool, enjoying a margarita ice pop with one of Hollywood’s most talented!

John Nielsen’s first encounter with the Madeira wine was not the most pleasant. He found it sweet and thin, and in general could not quite understand its fame. But that was all to change.

Mention the word “Madeira” and most people will think of Madeira wine that is produced on the beautiful island. Others will recall using the wine to enhance their cooking.

Venturing into the world of wines and gaining a taste for the alcoholic grape juice can often be a long process. A dear friend, Luiz began the educational process and my mind opened up to a world that I now adore and have worked with for 25 years. Luiz explained the complicated set up of the vineyards and then laid out six different bottles to taste.

The first few wines I had tasted were largely “non vintage” and were by his account “excellent for cooking with”…..the next bracket had an average age of 20 years and proved rich and elegant, but it was the 30 year olds that were simply stunning, I suddenly began to understand the depth and change.

The beautiful island, also known as the “island of Paradise” lies 465 miles off the African coast of Morocco and 622 miles from the Portuguese capital city of Lisbon. With stunning botanical gardens, miles of “lavada” trails for the keen walker, and a landscape that boast mountains, sea cliffs, historical sights and a fascinating history, it’s an ideal destination for all to explore.

The island of Madeira has an oceanic microclimate with the warm Gulf Stream passing through the islands and offers year round warm waters to swim in. The capital town of Funchal is picture perfectly set in the bay and is home to the majority of 300,000 population. You’ll also find a range of some of Madeira’s luxury hotels here including one of Europe grand hotels, Reid’s Palace and newly opened chic boutique hotel, The Vine.

The soil and climate of Madeira were found to be ideal for the production of wine. But many arduous years had to pass by, since the first plantings – circa 1470, before the land was cleared and enough vines planted to make an industry.

Most vineyards are on the south and north of the island, the smallest quantity on the eastern end. Usually the vines hang off trellises with lattice crosspieces for the vines to rest on at heights of six feet.

The roots of Madeira’s wine industry dates back to the Age of Exploration when Madeira was a regular port of call for ships traveling to the New World and East Indies.

The earliest examples of Madeira, like Port, were unfortified and had the habit of spoiling at sea.

Following the example of Port, a small amount of distilled alcohol made from cane sugar was added to stabilize the wine by boosting the alcohol content. The Dutch East India Company became a regular customer, picking up large (112 gal/423 l) casks of wine known as pipes for their voyages to India. The intense heat and constant movement of the ships had a transforming effect on the wine. It was found that the customer preferred the taste of this style of this Madeira Wine. Today three techniques are used to ensure the highest quality of Madeira’s are aged without the use of any artificial heat, being stored by the winery in warm rooms left to age by the heat of the sun. In cases like vintage Madeira, this heating process can last for from 20 years to 100 years.

Grape Varieties and Styles

There are four major types of Madeira, named according to the grape variety used. Ranging from the sweetest to the driest style they are: Malmsey, Bual, Verdelho, and Sercial. The four varieties will guide you in terms of taste, but real style and quality factor is the age. Often found in the export markets are the 5 year old “Reserve ” & the 10-year old Special Reserve.
When visiting Madeira make sure you taste the 15 to 20 year old Extra Reserve.

These wines are rich and a delight. Try them with a bit local goat cheese! To cap of the fine flavors seek out older Vintage Madeira, which must have a minimum age of 20 years and often can be over 50 years old, they can be quite sensational.

Winemaking

The initial winemaking steps of Madeira start out like most other wines with the grapes being harvested in October, crushed, pressed and then fermented in either stainless steel or oak cask. The annual harvest offers visitors a wonderful time to visit, when celebrations are high and the villages are decorated to mark the big event. Through out the island locals can be found helping produce the vintage or at least be part of the process!

The 1954 and 1905 Bual were sensational and dear to my heart. The 1905 was the birth year of my late grandmother and to celebrate her 75th birthday we opened this beautiful bottle. I can still taste the deep rich texture with raisin and honey flavors.

The 1954 proved brilliant and cemented my deep admiration for the growers and makers of this wine, as well as the island.

Madeira’s have been known to survive over 150 years in excellent condition. It is not uncommon to see Madeira’s pushing the century mark for sale at stores that specialize in rare wine.
As I walk down the cobbled streets of Funchal and pass by a wine shop or two, my eyes search to find a few more bottles with vintage Madeira from years that I will treasure.

Providing the perfect environment for relaxing and set on a cliff top plateau on the Bukit Peninsula is the Alila Villas Uluwatu, Bali’s first hotel to get the highest level of Green Globe certification for Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD)

The creation of this luxury hotel has met many ESD measures by including materials which were all locally sourced supporting local community , water conservation with soaks and rain gardens and recycling with grey water systems, heat pumps for water heating and salt water pools to name a few.

Known as one of the best hotels in Indonesia, the Alila Villas Uluwatu was designed by the award winning Singapore architectural firm, WOHA which has created this beautiful resort comprising of 84 villas offering panoramic views of the sea and horizon.

Inspired by Bukit’s dramatic, savannah landscape much of the hotels exterior is comprised of local plants which are being raised in a nursery on site at the resort to encourage local bird and animal life. Its design seamlessly integrates the cultural richness of its surroundings and continues the Alila tradition of a total destination experience that is surprisingly different and truly unique.

My favorite things to do when I travel to Montreal is to get some shopping done at all the little boutiques, try out some fabulous restaurants and hit the town for some yummy martinis.

Well, at Hotel Place D’armes, you’re right smack in the middle of it all.  This boutique hotel is right in the heart of the Old Port where history, romance and nightlife intertwine.

My recent stay at the hotel was a delight.  My beautiful suite had all my favorite things: a super comfy king sized bed, a huge rainshower, luxurious bathroom amenities from the hotel’s well known Rain Spa, and my absolute favorite part- a therapeutic soaker tub.  Rub a dub dub!

I almost didn’t want to leave my room.  Until I discovered the hotel has one of the hottest lounges in the city- Suite 701.  This is where the city’s jet setting crowd can be found sipping on sumptuous martinis, munching on delectable dishes such as the swordfish steak with mango salsa, or slow cooked veal cheeks with caramelized lardoons. It’s a perfect spot for Happy Hour, and makes for a great place to kick off a big night out on the town.

I’d always heard great things about the Hotel’s restaurant AIX but it wasn’t until I tried it that I discovered just how spectacular the food is. You must try the Kamouraska Lamb Noisette with cocoa beans and sausage.  It’s heavenly.

This luxurious hotel in Montreal has everything you need to fulfill a truly Montrealais experience.

Tyra Banks, former supermodel turned TV host (among other things), was recently vacationing with friends in Palm Springs, California. Of course, Tyra has impeccable taste and stayed at The Parker Palm Springs?

As Tyra was about to enjoy a delicious lunch on the patio at Norma’s restaurant her waiter, Juan, (nervous and stumbling over his words) introduced himself.

He should have just introduced himself as ‘America’s Next Top Male Model’ as he was just about to be discovered by one of the most popular supermodels of all time!

Way to go, Juan.

Who knows…maybe you’ll get discovered too during your next vacation in Palm Springs?

I didn’t know what to expect when I arrived in  Zihuatanejo, as the town was small and there was not a hotel in sight.

Then, as we traveled up the road and around a few curves, it all started to unfold.

When you arrive at the driveway of The Tides Zihuatanejo, you’re greeted by a friendly Bellman who is ready to introduce himself by name and with a smile. You are greeted by one of the many fountains at the hotel and the smooth look of the water falling over the edge.

A tour of the property teases us with fountains and fun walkways leading to the suites. And, looking up, there are private plunge pools in each lagoon suite and beach suite. I secretly hope one is mine.

Private tennis courts, ping pong, bars, beach side restaurants and white lounge chairs and beds are spread out around the resort. It was a perfect heaven after hectically driving from San Miguel de Allende to Mexico City, then flying to Zihuatanejo.

We arrive in our room and at the door we are greeted with Jamaica water, made from the Jamaica flower in Mexico. This, of course, is a healthy alternative to water. A wild flower added to your water adds just a touch of sweetness. On ice, it’s quite a treat and I would recommend it to anyone.

My little one loved the Mango smoothie made fresh with none of that powder stuff. I opened the door and there was our private plunge pool, with a beautiful open space with wooden shutters and inviting, fresh white furniture. Pillows add a comfy and modern touch to the room.

I looked beyond the plunge pool and I could see the ocean. What a breath of fresh air!

I forgot my bathing suite so a visited the boutique just next door and found a gem of a bikini to get me through the next five days. This resort really has everything you need in order to enjoy your holiday.

Dinner on the beach at La Villa Restaurant is a must. Elegant chairs and tables in white dressings, waiting for you to enjoy your romantic night as you listen to the waves crash only 20 feet away.

Breakfast is a treat as well, again, dressed in white cloths and iron chairs, fresh coffee, fresh jams, Juevos mexicano and any special order you might have.

I’m greeted as “Senorita Monica” everywhere I go! Everyone knows me, and that makes me feel special.

Kiwi Collections luxury online magazine Wow Travel has just put together a new photo feature. This is just a small sampling of some of the hotels beautiful evening settings.

Be sure to take a look at Wow Travel’s full photo feature titled Lantern Love.

The Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong in Hong Kong, China.

The One&Only Palmilla in Los Cabos, Mexico.

The beautiful W New Orleans French Quarter in New Orleans, USA.

The Tanjong Jara Resort in Dungun, Malaysia.

The Singita Boulders Lodge in Sabi Sand Reserve, South Africa.

Le Touessrok in Trou d’Eau Douce, Mauritius.

The Mahua Kothi in Bandhavgarh National Park, India.

If you’re looking for a true Washingtonion experience, the W Washington, DC fits the bill perfectly.  Formerly the Hotel Washington, DC, this once historic hotel turned ultra –modern is literally right across from the White House and minutes away from Capitol Hill.

Designed to embody Washington DC’s most powerful suits, the hotel’s underlying theme, is pinstripes and black lace.  Showcased in every detail, the decor was skillfully executed by Interior Designer, Dianna Wong.

It was my last night in DC, and the W was the perfect spot to spend a Friday evening.  Their rooftop bar, POV faces directly across from the Whitehouse.  I heard if the timing is right, you could even catch a glimpse of Obama, getting out of his helicopter.

POV is THE place to see and be seen in DC. There are line-ups around the corner but luckily for hotel guests you just present your room key and off you go!  For the winter season, they are featuring enticing hot cocktails.  Peanut Buttered Rum, Hot Not Chocolate, Mulled Pear Cider, and American Cream & Coffee.  Yum!

Their restaurant J& G Steakhouse, by famed Chef Jean Georges Vongerichten features a selection of premium meats, fresh fish, and the highest quality raw items from the East and West coasts.

I had the Seared Halibut with a Scallion-Chili Sauce Basil and Celery, it was heaven on a plate.

The name of this hotel’s game?  Indulgence. And indulge I did.

Hollywood is famed for its cultural identity as the historical center for movie stars and the motion picture industry. Often associated with glamour, sophistication and luxury, every party could use a little Hollywood flair.

The cocktail pushed its way into the mainstream with the help of early Hollywood cinema which cemented it into our culture.  And like most people in Hollywood, the Hollywood Cocktail is an interesting mix of flavors that just seem to work well together.

How to make your own Hollywood Cocktail:

-1 ½ oz Vodka
-1/2 ox black raspberry liquor
-dash of pineapple juice
-Raspberries or Pineapples for garnish

Pour your ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Where to find the perfect Hollywood Cocktail:

Andaz West Hollywood:
The Andaz West Hollywood is committed to bringing you the latest in style, service and high-touch innovation. Find yourself with a front row seat to one of the most famed walkways in the world, and the most exciting night life that lasts from Sunset till sunrise.

The Mosaic Hotel Beverly Hills:
If you’re looking for the ultimate boutique experience in Beverly Hills, you are sure to find it at the Mosaic Hotel. The Mosaic has 49 guest rooms and five suites, and is right off of Rodeo Drive. You won’t get closer to Beverly Hills’ best shopping and attractions than here!

Thompson Beverly Hills:
Also next to Rodeo Drive is the gorgeous Thompson Beverly Hills, a lovely boutique hotel of 107 rooms. This hotel is a perfect example of Californian modernism design, and is actually home to the West Coast’s first Bond St Sushi Restaurant.

The Sunset Tower Hotel:
Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe all stayed at The Sunset Tower Hotel, and once you go there, you’ll see why. This classically Hollywood Art Deco hotel is spacious, boasts excellent views and has a fabulous spa – perfect for the diva in each and every one of us.

Terranea Resort:
Located just south of LA near Hollywood is the Terranea Resort which is dramatically poised above the Pacific Ocean and known as California’s premier coastal resort destinations. And this Christmas, come and spend your holiday at the resort and enjoy either a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day brunch for two included in their “Our First Christmas Together” package.

Montage Beverly Hills:
Ideal of business or leisure travelers, Montage Beverly Hills is just steps from Rodeo Drive (where some of the world’s best boutiques can be found). We love the Spanish Colonial exterior, and we know you will too.

SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills:
Furnished with designs by legendary architect Philippe Starck, lovers of fine design will really enjoy the SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills. Every detail has been taken care of at this lovely hotel.

The Huntley Hotel:
If a dramatic view is what you’re looking for during your stay in Santa Monica, The Huntley Hotel may be for you. Whether it’s the mountains, the city or the ocean, this hotel is the ultimate retreat in Southern California.

Sunset Marquis:
If you’ve always wanted to stay right near the Sunset Strip, then Sunset Marquis is definitely the place for you. Guests will enjoy spacious suites, luxurious amenities and some true Hollywood charm at this lovely hotel in West Hollywood.

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel:
Famed for being the birthplace of the Academy Awards the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is now the place where old Hollywood and young Hollywood entwine. Complete with a Marilyn Monroe suite, gable and Lombard penthouse, an historical lobby with library bar, poolside cabana and 24 hour room service and concierge makes this a place where your every desire will surely be met.

Palihouse Holloway:
Choose from 36 spacious guest residence and make yourself at home in the heart of West Hollywood at the Palihouse Holloway. Surrounded by unparalleled nightlife, shopping, restaurants, beaches and cultural venues makes this luxury hotel the perfect base from which to explore.

Mondrian:
Capturing the quintessential California lifestyle of glamour, fantasy along with causal living and a love for the outdoors is the Mondrain located on the world famous Sunset Strip. Each guest room has fully equipped kitchens, large work desks, oversized bathrooms and elegant furnishings all inspired by a sense of uncomplicated sophistication.

Chateau Marmont:
Originally built in 1929, Chateau Marmont is a legendary castle-like hotel sitting high above the Sunset Strip and has played host to countless celebrities. Each of the sixty-three rooms, cottages and bungalows are homes of their own and have a gracious scale from a long gone era.

Capella Ixtapa is by far one of the best hotels in Guerrero, Mexico. With endless amenities, cool air-conditioned rooms, and unsurpassed views that can be enjoyed from the exclusivity of an adjoining terrace, this luxury hotel in Mexico serves as a perfect retreat year-round.

Upon entering the welcome coolness of my room, I was showered with gifts ranging from straw sunhats, beautiful white scarves, fruit, and flip flops. Fruit is also personally served poolside; pineapple juice is brought just in the nick of time; and, after a day spent overlooking the nature preserved islands across the water, comes a platter of Mexican chips with fresh salsa and guacamole—Yum! Oh…did I forget to mention the two refreshing Corona’s served in a tin bucket full of ice? What a perfect beginning of the end of the night!

Sink into the plunge pool overlooking the ocean, islands, and watch the eagles flying above coasting along the cliff. With the evening sun caressing your skin and the waves crashing on the shore, slurping an evening margarita in this sublime location is a must.

Take a walk down the stairs of the hotel and spend some time on the so natural rocky beach. The hotel provides chairs for you to comfortably enjoy the shore or the natural beauty of black rocks jutting out alongside the surrounding cliffs—a picture perfect environment.

When it’s dark, saunter down to the restaurant where the fresh fish caught by the fishermen in plain view from Capella Ixtapa are served with an array of local herbs and spices. How much more organic can you get? Definitely my kind of place.

The restaurant displays a small canoe filled with ice topped with a variety of fish, octopus, lobster and shrimp from the ocean for you to chose from.  It’s like a real seafood market but with the high quality service of the staff and luxury of the restaurant.  Guests are facing the ocean as they eat, no matter where you sit with the waves crashing and the candles lit.  I personally recommend this to anyone who can appreciate this natural beauty.  Romance and tranquility at it’s finest.

Just because winter is around the corner doesn’t mean it can’t feel like spring! From now until December 31, 2009 the Alva Park Resort and Spa in Costa Brava, Spain, is offering a great “Butterfly Dream” package that includes dinner in their Grand Butterfly Garden with hundreds of flying butterflies.

Set on one of the most landscaped beaches in the heart of Costa Brava and only an hour away from Barcelona, is the beautifully luxurious Alva Park Resort and Spa. Close to fabulous art galleries, pristine beaches, world class golf courses and extraordinarily beautiful fishing and medieval villages makes this area perfect for experiencing one of the most fascinating areas of Spain.

Suites at the Alva Park are offer a variety of room choices for guests like sea view suites with elegant canopy covered terraces or suites with a Turkish bath featuring an indoor secret garden under the moon light.

Spain is always a great getaway destination but until December 31, 2009 the Alva Park Resort and Spa is the ultimate destination in Spain. Come take advantage of their “Butterfly Dream” package here which offers two nights in one of their junior suites and lets you wake up each morning to an unlimited a la carte breakfast while the sun is rising over the sea.

This package also includes access to their Indian Princess Bath. This is a magical place that allows you to fully let go and relax as you float in warm salt water in the midst of underwater music. This is not only the highlight of their spa which also offers classic Ayurvedic and Tibetan massages as well as an array of beauty treatments, but it is also a most unique experience that will have you feeling relaxed for days.

To complete this “Butterfly Dream” is a delicious dinner in their Grand Butterfly Garden. This Garden gives spectacular scenery with a mobile roof and glass panels, recreating a natural habitat housing hundreds of flying butterflies, snow and other exciting surprises that you have to see to experience.