Just had a wonderful week in New York, and this time with my wife, my two year old daughter and 6 month old son.

After living in London for a year, New York still has the edge when it comes to the thrill of being in the ultimate cosmopolitan city. Everything you feel like doing is at your finger tips, just a call or a short walk or cab ride away.

I have lived in New York for a total of 16 years during many different times of my life, and it always seems that sooner or later I want to move back!

The highlight was a Sunday day trip by helicopter to my friend Daniele Bodini’s horse farm in Millbrook in upstate New York.

Priceless pictures of my two year old circling the Statue of Liberty at sunset. Lunched downtown at Balthazar (always good) and uptown at Geisha, Amaranth and Hatsuhana.

Dinners at La Esquina (always fun and relaxed), Waverly Inn (clubby and familiar), 15 East (great little Japanese), Shun Lee Palace (good old classic), Cipriani Uptown (back on top), Blue Ribbon (Delicious and late night).

This time I had a particularly enjoyable stay at the always good and a classic Peninsula Hotel right off Fifth Ave at 55th street.

The Peninsula recently underwent an extensive renovation. The rooms are very comfortable and the service super efficient. Perfect location. Intimate and cozy, yet sophisticated. The rooftop cocktail bar is outstanding, particularly when the weather is nice.

The Peninsula rooftop spa by ESPA a sanctuary. Whether alone on a business trip or with the family, I found the Peninsula an ideal choice in New York City.

Erik Wachtmeister is the founder of ASMALLWORLD.

There’s no better time to make an escape to the Caribbean than February. It’s cold and miserable in most northern countries, but beautiful and warm in Barbados. Luckily for sun seekers, one of our excellent resorts in Barbados has a great Valentine’s Day package that’s good for the whole month.

Guests at the Fairmont Royal Pavilion will enjoy the famous west coast of Barbados and fabulous ocean views from their suites.

This plantation-style luxury resort is found right on the beach.

The Fairmont Royal Pavilion’s February package includes:
•    Five nights in an ocean front deluxe room
•    Champagne and chocolate covered strawberries in your room on arrival
•    A candlelit dinner for two in the exquisite ocean front palm terrace restaurant
•    An in-room couples aromatherapy massage
•    One round of olf per person
•    Complimentary taylor made golf clubs
•    A romantic sunrise picnic on the east coast of the island
•    A car rental for two days
•    A memento of the island and the hotel

Check out some photos of this gorgeous, romantic resort:

When it comes to cocktails, one of the great books on the subject, “The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks” reminds us that the original vodka martini was actually called the Kangaroo Cocktail making it a perfect drink to head down under with.

Although Australia is best known for its amazing wine, (and there’s lots of it) for those really rough Fridays, a Kangaroo Cocktail will defiantly take the edge off in a hurry.

Make your own Kangaroo Cocktail:

1 ½ oz Vodka
½ oz Vermouth

Pour ingredients into an ice filled martini shaker and strain into a martini glass. Add a lemon twist to serve if desired.

Some of the best luxury hotels in Australia to get an amazing Kangaroo Cocktail:

Lake House:
Perfect for relaxing and resting, Lake House is a luxury boutique inn that sits right on the shores of beautiful Lake Daylesford. The Inn is surrounded by six acres of garden, really giving guests an intimate, secluded environment. Stay in the Waterfront Suites for a really special occasion as they have balconies overlooking the lake and lagoon.

Bedarra Island:
If you love modern design, diving and snorkeling, you won’t want to be anywhere else than Bedarra Island Resort. Consisting of 16 luxury villas surrounded by the rainforest, suites are open-plan and have floor-to-ceiling windows. A few of the villas have their own plunge pools, so be sure to ask about this when you book your stay here!

Lilianfels Blue Mountain Resort & Spa:
Housed in a historic country house set amidst two acres of manicured gardens and surrounded by breathtaking views, the Lilianfels Blue Mountain Resort & Spa is designed to put you at ease. Awarded as one of the top hotels in Australia by Travel + Leisure, this is also a great getaway for food lovers with their onsite restaurant Darley’s recently winning the Regional Restaurant of the Year award for 2009.

Lyall Hotel and Spa:
As one of Melbourne’s only privately owned five-star hotels, the Lyall Hotel in Spa is a chic boutique hotel located in the heart of South Yarra, one of the worlds most fashionable and cosmopolitan destinations. Each spacious suite offers exclusive custom-made furniture along with all the modern amenities and each floor features a mini art gallery showcasing original, local works.

Longitude 131°:
Found right next to the Aboriginal site of Uluru, Longitude 131° Lodge is the perfect boutique camping experience travelers to Australia’s unique Northern Territory will be looking for. You’ll experience sunset at the famous Ayers Rock and will enjoy “roughing it” in one of 15 luxury tents. Keep in mind that tents are equipped with all the conveniences  you’ll need – everything from air condition to iPod docking stations.

The Richardson Hotel & Spa:
Designed by renowned London architect Sir Terry Farrell, The Richardson Hotel & Spa is one of Perth’s best luxury boutique hotels. Enjoy the beautiful city vies from your private balcony or dine in their exclusive restaurant Opus for inventive cuisine using one the finest West Australian market fresh ingredients.

Lizard Island:
Remote, gorgeous and sunny, Lizard Island Resort and Spa is an excellent spot to enjoy diving on the Great Barrier Reef. Lizard Island also has an excellent spa! Rooms here boast amazing views of the reef, and all of them have beach access. Guests here can charter the resort’s 51-foot yacht for some time on the water.

Establishment Hotel:
The Establishment Hotel is a luxurious boutique hotel close to many of Sydney’s fabulous hot spots. If you are looking for a good time, come here and enjoy anyone of Establishments seven bars or hit the dance floor at the ever so popular Tank Nightclub.

qualia Great Barrier Reef:
You’ll find qualia Great Barrier Reef on Hamilton Island, which is just off of Australia’s Queensland coast. Get in some serious world-class diving at this resort, and a whole host of other water activities: kayaking, yachting, sailing a hobie cat – you name it. The view is what makes qualia Great Barrier Reef really stand out, so be sure to spend some time just watching the horizon.

The Observatory Hotel:
Located right in the heart of Sydney, The Observatory Hotel is a world class getaway that offers an amazing five star restaurant and a wonderfully indulgent day spa. If you and your loved one are planning a romantic escape, this luxury hotel lets you customize your stay making sure that your visit is no less than perfect.

Some of the world’s top hotels are offering great, romantic Valentine’s Day specials this year! Check them out!

Es Saadi Palace & Villas:
Come and escape this Valentine’s day to the exotic Moroccan gardens at Es Saadi Palace & Villas, an eight hectare park right in the heart of Marrakesh. With their Valentine’s Day Weekend Package, this two night stay in their gorgeous junior Palace suite includes a romantic candlelit dinner at their exclusive restaurant La Cour des Lions under the stars. And after a wonderful evening, wake up and indulge with their Oriental spa offering a traditional couples massage for the two of you.

Talbott Hotel Chicago:
Set in the heart of Chicago’s beautiful and effervescent Gold Coast, the Talbott Hotel is a luxury European-style boutique hotel, perfect for an elegant Valentine’s day celebration. This year, Talbott Hotel is celebrating this special day with its Personally Yours Romance Package which offers you your own personal Concierge to plan and exciting romantic rendezvous in Chicago. After a night on the town you can rest in your upgraded suite adorned with rose petals and wake up to a breakfast for two from Bice Bistro. You and your loved one will also get personally embroidered signature Talbott Hotel luxurious bathrobes and late checkout up till 5pm so you can stay in bed as long as you want.

Fairmont Battery Wharf:
A fabulous romantic dinner is always a must when it comes to celebrating Valentine’s Day and at the Fairmont Batter Wharf in Boston’s North End is making sure you have the best dining experience imaginable with their Valentine’s Day at Sensing offer. Presenting a four course prix fixe menu featuring an extraordinary array of culinary delights, they are also offering an extraordinary desert treat. With dinner when you and your loved one order a bottle of Dom Perignon the Fairmont Battery Wharf will give you a room for only $10! With views of the Boston waterfront, contemporary décor and an intimate setting, this is sure to be an ideal night out.

Saint Sulpice- Montreal:
Surrounded by cathedrals and some of Montreal’s oldest architecture, Hotel le Saint-Sulpice is offering a special one-night stay Valentine’s Day package for couples. Guests can expect a stay in one of the hotel’s elegant suites, continental breakfast, half a bottle of champagne upon arrival, a six-course Valentine’s dinner, two gift vouchers for the spa and late checkout.

St. Regis- San Francisco:
Get away without actually going away if you’re lucky enough to be living in San Francisco! The St. Regis San Francisco is having a “Valentine’s Day indulgence day package” that’s perfect for both couples and family members. Spend the day relaxing at the spa and enjoy a gourmet brunch prepared by Vitrine restaurant’s very own Chef Romuald Feger.

Jumeirah Carlton Tower:
One of London’s most luxurious hotels, Jumeirah Carlton Tower, is offering a “Just the Two of Us” Valentines Day package. Among other things, guests will receive a chilled bottle of Champagne, chocolate-dipped fresh strawberries and beautiful fresh flowers when they arrive. Also, couples will receive a 30 minute massage, breakfast, late check-out a goody bag from the spa and more!

The Connaught:
Another stunning hotel in London, the Connaught, will be offering a package called “Truly Madly Deeply” for Valentine’s Day. Couples will enjoy a luxurious English breakfast for two, a bottle of Laurent-Perrier Rose upon their arrival, romantic rose petal turndown, two personalized bathrobes and late check-out! The package last for the entire month of February – so if you’re busy on the 14th with less romantic plans, this is a great way to keep the romance alive on a different day.

The best time to visit the Turks and Caicos in the Caribbean is the winter time. The winds are lower, the sun is shining and it’s gorgeously warm (but not too hot!). For seekers of a luxurious boutique experience in the Turks and Caicos, a stay at Grace Bay Club may be in order.

This luxury resort in the Turks and Caicos is found right on 11 acres of white, sandy beach. This particular resort is the first one that only has suites. Guests get amazing views of the water from private terraces  and the resort features an inifiniti bar,  beach beds and personalized concierge service.

For guests looking for a truly special experience, Grace Bay Club is promoting a special package right now called “The Penthouse Package”.

This package includes a four-night stay in one of Grace Bay Club’s gorgeous Penthouses. Each penthouse is 3,600 square feet and rooms feature their own entrance to the beach. Here, you’ll enjoy a 1,000 square foot oceanfront terrace, soaring ceilings and two master bedrooms with great views of the water.

Penthouses also feature kitchens, multi-media rooms, separate living rooms, dining rooms and private outdoor Jacuzzis.

The package includes:
• Bottle of Dom Perignon in suite upon arrival
• Personal concierge, dedicated personal cook & housekeeper
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily in restaurant or penthouse
• Coffee, tea, and soft drinks
• Private airport transfers
• 1 complimentary gourmet grocery list
• 1 half-day private boat cruise
• 2 massages per stay in the Anani Spa or penthouse
• Nightly turndown amenities
• Wireless internet, afternoon tea, non-motorized water sports

Rates starting at $3,600 per night plus tax and service charge, maximum 6 people
(4 night minimum stay required, not combinable with any other promotion)

Come spend this Valentine’s day perched above the tranquility of the Mediterranean sea along Italy’s Southern coast at Casa Angelina Hotel. Surrounded by the enchanting beauty the Amalfi Coast, this is one of Europe’s most extraordinary coast lines, perfect for a romantic holiday.

Casa Angelina’s aesthetic is calm and classic, balancing intelligent and articulate service with sleek clean-lined accommodation, paired with playful pieces of modern art. Exquisite and chic this five star luxury hotel will be more than you could ask for in one of the most beautiful areas on earth.

And if you want to have your own Valentine fairytale, Casa Angelina has a very special Valentine’s package for you and your loved one to indulge in pure romance. This package includes:

-A one night accommodation in a Double Room which offers panoramic vistas of the gulf of Salerno along with views of the charming village of Positano and the romantic Capri Island.

-A Valentine’s surprise for you and your loved one in your room upon your arrival.

-A delicious buffet breakfast for two

-A special four-course candlelit dinner for two at their “Un Piano Nel Cielo” restaurant along with Champaign and wines from their well-appointed wine cellar.  The meal will feature some of the most delectable Mediterranean cuisine imaginable with views of the coast line.

-An in-room romantic bath with floral petals, essences and perfumed oils, perfect for relaxing as the sun goes down.

When celebrating your love, nothing says romance like the Casa Angelina Hotel.

What could be more romantic then a Valentines getaway in Venice? This Italian city is gorgeous inside and out,  full of beautiful art, rich culture, and marvelous canals, make this year’s Valentine’s day one to always remember.

When visiting this amazing city, one of the best hotels in Venice has to be Hotel Danieli, a fabulous luxury hotel located on Riva degli Schiavoni, with easy access to Piazza San Marco, cultural attractions, La Biennale di Venezia, shopping, and outdoor cafès and restaurants. Comprised of three palaces, these 14th century structures will give you a glimpse into Venice’s past glory while surrounding yourself with all of the modern comforts of the 21st century.

Each of the 225 spacious rooms at Hotel Danieli is decked out in a Gothic/modern style and evoke a sense of magic and theater only found in Venice. With rooftop views or of the Venetian lagoon, every room is extraordinary and dramatic.

Hotel Danieli is committed to making every guests stay and exceptional one and dining out at their restaurant, Restaurant Terrazza Danieli, is no exception. This Valentine’s day lover’s are sure to enjoy the exquisite cuisine of their special 6-course Love and Passion Valentine’s Day candle lit dinner. Along with live music and rare water views of the city, the restaurant’s Executive Chef Gian Nicola Colucci has prepared a crescendo of flavor emotions, from oysters, caviar and passion fruit scampi, to lobster, wild boar and cigar cream brulé.

But if you can’t make it to Venice for Valentine’s day, Hotel Danieli also has a wonderfully romantic In-Room Spa Package available anytime from now until the end of 2010; which will make the perfect Valentine’s day gift! This package includes a luxurious, two night accommodation with a beautiful lagoon view, a welcome wellness basket upon arrival, daily breakfast at Restaurant Terrazza Danieli, late check out and one 50 minute Couple’s Swedish Massage. What could be better than that?

Come and indulge in the luxurious setting of Hotel Danieli and rekindle your romance any time of the year in the most beautiful city built by man.

If you are on the hunt for the perfect beach getaway to rest and relax in true Caribbean fashion, then look no further than the Victoria House located on the island  Ambergris Caye in Belize.

Victoria House is a small, exclusive resort surrounded by lush tropical gardens and beautiful white sand beaches. Activities here are in abundance from diving, snorkeling, cave tubing, helicopter tours or relaxing in a Mayan hammock between two swaying palms. And with an onsite activities director an itinerary can be created for you no matter how adventurous or laid back you may choose to be.

With only forty-two accommodations this area is perfect for a private, romantic vacation. Beach front villas and the Rainforest Suite are just steps from the azure Caribbean complete with vaulted hardwood ceilings and a spacious deck along with a private infinity pool overlooking the beach.

Dining here at the Victoria House can be as romantic or as causal as you desire and with three different restaurants to choose from, every pallet will surely be satisfied.  Using only the freshest local ingredients and delicious seafood the amazing chefs here make it their goal to offer a memorable culinary experience.  And all while overlooking the amazing reef makes a candlelit evening dinner something you don’t want to miss.

This fabulous beach hideaway was recently declared the Most Excellent Beach Hotel by Conde Nast Johansens and made the Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Hotel list for the last three years in a row! With a friendly atmosphere, great service and absolutely beautiful natural surroundings makes the Victoria House one destination you don’t pass up.

The Maldives is one of the most beautiful places on earth and is a perfect place to visit if you love the sun, sand and ocean breezes. Thankfully Kiwi Collection has some of the best hotels in the Maldives for you to choose from when planning your next getaway!

W Retreat & Spa Maldives:
The W Retreat & Spa Maldives is your own private island fantasy come true. Surrounded by beautiful white sand beaches, glistening turquoise lagoons and breathtaking reefs, every guests gets their own private luxury oasis complete with unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean.

Diva, Maldives:
Perfect for honeymoons and weddings, Diva, Maldives, is that truly scenic spot that all brides to be are looking for on their special day. This island resort is surrounded by a lagoon, miles of ocean in all colours of blue and lush greenery. Such a special place is deserving of a special occasion.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island:
Famed as one of the world’s most luxurious getaways, the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island a beautiful destination offering sophisticated barefoot luxury. Each room offers extraordinary views of the Indian Ocean, garden bathrooms and your own private plunge pool. And if you love adventure come dine at their unique underwater restaurant.

Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives:
Enjoy four miles of pristine beach and coastline from the Shangri-La’s Vilingili Resort and Spa. This gorgeous resort occupies its own island and is surrounded by lush countryside, lagoons and trails (perfect for spotting the animals and plants native to the Maldives). Spend some time snorkeling with the turtles.

Velassaru Maldives:
Perfect for a romantic sea-side escape, Velassaru Maldives is a secluded luxury resort on Addu Atoll. Bungalows, villas and suites are situated over the lagoon or on the sand to give visitors the rich, Maldives experience they’re looking for.

Kurumba Maldives:
Kurumba Maldives is the ultimate lover’s private escape. This 48 acre private island with spacious bungalows and villas along with some of the best cuisine imaginable, makes this one place you don’t want to pass up. Come here to renew your vows in their breathtaking underwater alter to the sound of live traditional drummers.

Huvafen Fushi:
Nestled in its own private lagoon, this natural aquatic wonderland it’s the perfect place for a relaxing spa getaway. Huvafen Fushi is home to the worlds first underwater spa along with glass-bottom ocean huts and is surrounded by exquisite white sand beaches.

Alila Villas Hadahaa Maldives:
You’ll see every shade of blue from Alila Villas Hadahaa Maldives. At only 50 suites, this luxurious hotel in the Maldives is an intimate escape providing a truly unique guest experience. Make sure that diving and dining are on your daily agenda because both of these activities are this resort’s specialty.

For those of you not lucky enough to have a spot of your own along the coast, Kiwi Collection has some of the best beach and coastal resorts that are perfect for enjoying a Sea Breeze.

Make your own Sea Breeze:

-2 oz vodka
-2 oz pink grapefruit juice
-3 oz cranberry juice
-Squeeze of fresh lime.

In an ice filled highball glass add ingredients and garnish with a lime wedge to serve. Ah Sea Breeze perfection!

Here are some of our best luxury hotels  to get a delicious Sea Breeze by the sea:

Madinat Jumeirah:
Right on the shores of the Arabian Gulf, Madinat Jumeirah leaves nothing to the imagination. Stay cool by taking a ride through the resort’s meandering waterways. They’re used to move guests around this incredibly varied resort packed with restaurants, a traditional souk, health club, spa and more.

Tivoli Victoria:
Tivoli Victoria is perfect for golfers and spa lovers. This resort is found in Portugal’s popular Algarve region, and is one of the best hotels in Portugal if you’re looking to kick back and relax. Stay in the Presidential Suite if you want to be in the most exclusive wing. Here, you’ll get a gorgeous view of the golf course and the sea.

The Sebel Reef House & Spa:
Come to where the rain-forest meets the sea in Palm Cove Village Australia and enjoy the white sands and palm trees while sipping on your sea breeze. At The Sebel Reef House & Spa relaxation and romance go hand in hand and with an award winning restaurant along with an internationally recognized health spa, this is one place you may never want to leave.

Elbow Beach, Bermuda:
Elbow Beach, Bermuda is a beautiful intimate luxury resort set amidst 50 acres of landscaped gardens. This is the perfect place to enjoy the private pink sand beaches with your sea breeze. And if you are more of the adventurous type the resort’s dive shop is ready to help you discover the areas amazing reefs and shipwrecks off the coast.

Casa dell’Arte:
For artistic-types, this coastal resort in Turkey will really take your breath away. Casa dell’Arte has 12 individually decorated rooms named for a sign on the zodiac ranging in size to be up to 1500 square feet! Casa Dell’Arte is located right in Bodrum, and has its own private beach.

Marigot Bay Hotel:
You’ll find Marigot Bay Hotel on the scenic west coast of beautiful St. Lucia. This eco-friendly, boutique hotel is perfect for guests who are seeking a romantic vacation in the Caribbean or a vacation focused around enjoying the ocean. In fact, you’ll see quite a few luxury yachts here.

The Empire Hotel & Country Club:
If you’ve ever day dreamed about what it would be like to live like royalty, you can now make your dreams come true at The Empire Hotel & Country Club in Brunei Darussalam. This beautiful tropical estate looks over the ocean, lagoons, gardens and their fabulous golf course. Surrounded by virgin rainforests, pristine coral reefs and shimmering mosques are just a few of the wonders that await you.

Hotel Byron:
Hotel Byron was built by high society for high society. It overlooks white sand beaches and the Apuan Alps and is one of the most luxurious hotels in Tuscany. The hotel is also surrounded by pristine wilderness – perfect for long hikes and relaxing walks.

Esencia:
Located on Mexico’s beautiful Riviera Maya, near sparkling blue waters and soft powdery white sands is Esencia, a gorgeous beachside getaway. This is the perfect spot to worship the sun and sip on a sea breeze and indulge in their fully organic spa to help you relax and rejuvenate.

Bulgari Hotels & Resorts Bali:
The pinnacle of tropical luxury, Bulgari Hotels and Resorts, Bali is situated right on a cliff. Guests at this gorgeous resort in Bali get amazing views of the Indian Ocean. Kick back at the private beach (accessible by elevator) and be sure to take up some of the exciting things to do around the resort (visiting a Volcano or touring the colourful markets, for example).

Jumeirah Beach Hotel:
Come immerse yourself in luxury at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Built in the shape of a giant cresting wave this amazing resort sets the perfect scene for a sea breeze and a relaxing day on the ocean. With multiple restaurants covering an array of international cuisine to activities like windsurfing, scuba excursions and deep-sea fishing, this luxury hotel is one that should not be missed.

To celebrate its fifth anniversary, Abama Golf and Spa Resort on the beautiful Spanish island of Tenerife is hosting the first annual ABAMA PRO-AM Golf Tournament. The tournament will take place from February 12 to February 13, 2010.

Cash prizes will be awarded to professional players and prizes for amateurs include stays at other Ritz-Carlton hotels around the world!

We love this world-class golf course, a great challenge for all skill levels. And you won’t get a better view. This resort in the Canary Islands is situated on top of a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The course features lakes, waterfalls and lush landscapes in addition to the amazing view of the water.

Guests can stay for three nights, five nights or seven nights, and the ABAMA PRO-AM 2010 packages include:

• Lunch at Casa Club restaurant during the 2-day tournament
• 1 dinner per person at El Mirador Restaurant (excluding beverages)
• 1 Thermal Circuit at Abama Spa per person per stay
• Complimentary 1 hour tennis court per stay
• VIP services at Abama pools and beach
• Special discounts in the Golf Pro Shop and Spa Boutique

This is definitely an opportunity you won’t want to miss if you’re a golfer – so book your stay right away. We reviewed Abama Golf and Spa Resort last year, so check it out!

And, for those of you who love photos, here are some more of the grounds around this fabulous golf resort:

If stunning views of the mountains and ocean are what you’re looking for on your next trip to Vancouver, than the Pan Pacific Vancouver is definitely for you. Perched on a peer that reaches directly out to the Ocean, this hotel is one of the city’s major landmarks.

You’ll recognize the Pan Pacific on the skyline as those gorgeous billowing white sails. Right in the heart of downtown Vancouver, guests here are minutes away from the city’s best shopping, nightlife, restaurants and Stanley Park.

One of the best features of this hotel is the gorgeous and exclusive Pacific Club Floor and Lounge.

Here, you’ll get panoramic views from the 23rd floor, private check-in/check out and concierge services, west coast deluxe breakfast, evening Hors D’Oeurves, self-serve refreshments and wireless internet.

Rooms on floors 22 and 23 feature Anichini linens, L’Occitane personal amenities, plush bathrobes and slippers, iHome docking stations, complimentary internet and complimentary local and toll free calls.

You won’t want to leave without experiencing the spa and fitness/relaxation facilities. If you happen to be catching a sunny day in Vancouver, don’t waste it indoors. Head up to the 8th floor where you can enjoy the salt water pool and Jacuzzi outside, while enjoying a great view of the mountains.

Check out some photos of this stunning hotel in Vancouver:

Bali is one of the world’s most beautiful beach destinations. If you’re planning a romantic beach vacation in Indonesia this year, consider a stay at Intercontinental Bali Resort.

Blending traditional Balinese architecture and style with all of the modern amenities of today, Intercontinental Bali is a luxurious getaway right on Bali’s southern coastline (Jimbaran Bay). The resort is situated on 35 acres of land, packed full of lush, tropical plants.

And, of course, one of this resort’s most exciting features is its beachfront location. You’ll find what seems to be an endless stretch of sugary beach to enjoy right at the resort.

For the foodies and nighthawks there’s a lot going on at this gorgeous resort in Bali. Jimbaran Gardens Restaurant is a casual spot to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat while enjoying a fabulous view of the bay and KO restaurant is known as one of the city’s finest Japanese restaurants.

For a romantic meal, head to one of the tented canopies on the beachfront. You’ll hear the waves washing over the sand while enjoying the candle light with your sweetheart.
Check out some photos of Intercontinental Bali Resort below:

Statistically speaking, when it comes to New Year’s resolutions, momentum its typically lost around the 14th of January. This is also true for Kiwi Collection and Refreshing Fridays is back on the adult drinking regimen with the delicious classic, Tom Collins.

There are a few different legends about how the Tom Collins got its name but the most popular once is known as The Great Tom Collins Hoax of 1874.  This prank took over New York, Pennsylvania and elsewhere in the United States where a conversation would start with “Have you seen Tom Collins?” Predictably the listener would say “no” and the prankster would go on to tell you he just overheard someone named Tom Collins at a bar down the street saying hateful and libelous things about you. You race to that bar to confront the bounder, where you would be told that Tom Collins had just left for a bar several blocks away. As you chase all over the city to find him, your friends convulse with laughter. This joke went so far that even several newspapers propagated the successful joke by printing stories containing false sightings of Tom Collins.

Get in on the fun and make your own Tom Collins:

-2 oz Gin
-1oz  fresh squeezed lemon juice
-1 tsp. of super fine sugar
-3 oz Club soda

Mix gin, lemon juice and sugar in a Collins glass filled with ice and top it off with club soda. Garnish with a lemon slice, maraschino cherry and serve.

Some of the best hotels in the USA to get a great Tom Collins:

The Standard, New York:
Perfect for shopping, sightseeing, and enjoying a relaxing all-American drink, The Standard New York is where you’ll get excellent views of the city. Our favorite suite is the Empire Suite – the wall to floor windows face onto Midtown and Greenwich Village. Wow!

Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago:
One of the windy city’s biggest icons, nothing says “Chicago” like the Trump International Hotel and Tower. Stay here if you’re a foodie, a business leader (or both), and be sure to ask them for their Tom Collins. It won’t disappoint.

Jumeirah Essex House:
A New York icon, Jumeirah Essex House is an art deco masterpiece from 1931. This is a great place to stay if you want to be right on Central Park – and, of course, Jumeirah Essex House makes for an excellent place to enjoy a traditional Tom Collins.

Sundance Resort:
Known as one of Utah’s leading resorts, Sundance Resort offers a world of outdoor adventure. Set along the beautiful Wasatch mountain range guests will enjoy the quietude here that is a welcomed contrast to the normal bustle found at most Utah ski resorts. And if you are heading down for the Sundance Film Festival this year from January 21-31, 2010 be sure to take advantage of their Film Fest package where if you book 4 or more nights in one of their mountain cottages you’ll get 8 tickets to film screenings at Sundance Village, 2 tickets to film screenings in Park City and 2 Festival credentials!

Acqualina Resort & Spa On The Beach:
What could be better than a Tom Collins then at the Acqualina Resort & Spa On the Beach which is located on Collins Ave. in Sunny Isle Beach, Florida? This luxury coastal hotel is the perfect place for lovers of world-class golf, fine dining, fabulous shopping and beautiful white sandy beaches. Relax and indulge with their pool side reflexology treatments or let loose at the great nearby nightlife.

Four Seasons Resort Lana’i at Manele Bay:
There’s no better escape from the winter than a trip to Hawaii, and one of the best places to stay on Lana’I is the Four Seasons Resort Lana’I at Menele Bay. Here, you’ll get gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean on an almost 100% private island.

The Lodge at Glendorn:
Like taking a step back in time, the Lodge at Glendorn is set amounts beautiful densely forested hills along a trout filled brook in northwestern Pennsylvania. Inspired by the love of the outdoors, each redwood cabin is luxuriously rustic complete with wood burning fireplaces and perfectly decorated to give you that forest hideout feel. Set with an award winning culinary team and a philosophy to use only the finest of ingredients, Gelndorn meals are sure to excite.

The Phoenician:
No trip to Phoenix is complete without a stay in Scottsdale. This upscale neighborhood is filled with stunning scenery, rich colors and textures and, of course, The Phoenician – a great 654-room hotel that’s geared towards golfers.

Sé San Diego:
A Tom Collins is sure to put you in a celebratory mood, especially when the luxurious Se San Diego is celebrating its first year anniversary! Just minutes away from the beach with warm West Coast/Asian- inspired design, a fabulous spa, world-class cuisine and recipient as one of Conde Nast Traveler’s “Hot Hotels” this luxury hotel is the perfect starting point to discover all that San Diego has to offer.

Homestead Inn – Thomas Henkelmann:
Perfect for New Yorker’s looking for a quick escape to Connecticut, Homestead Inn is one of the best places to stay in the area, especially if you’re in to stunning design and equally stunning cuisine. These guys just “get it”. How will their Tom Collins compare? You’ll have to stay there to find out.

Hotel Granduca:
Located in Houston’s trendy Uptown are this luxury boutique created by Giorgio Borlenghi will transport you to old-world Italy inspired by the Renaissance life of the Granduca of Monfallito. Hotel Granduca’s spacious rooms feature original Italian art, 400-count Italian linins and large walk-in closet. And if you’d like a little more Italy with your stay, discover the unique flavors of Ristorante Cavour for some fabulous Northern Italian cuisine with a French accent.

Fairmont Battery Wharf:
Set along the waterfront ins Boston’s first neighborhood, the Fairmont Battery Wharf is steeped in over 300 years of history and just steps away from amazing attractions like the Institute of Contemporary Art, Freedom Trail and the Rose Kennedy Greenway. And after a long day exploring this luxury hotel brings you a unforgettable culinary journey at their restaurant Sensing offering eclectic, artfully designed dishes.

Palace Hotel, San Francisco:
An icon of San Francisco, Palace Hotel was rebuilt in 1909 after being destroyed by the great earthquake of 1906. We can’t think of a better American icon than this great, traditional hotel. Enjoy this hotel’s grand rooms and common spaces while sipping on a traditional Tom Collins.

If you are craving to break away from the clutches of the modern world and are in need of simpler living, the Adrere Amellal Desert Ecolodge is possibly one of the most perfect escapes imaginable, especially for the culturally aware and environmentally sensitive global traveler.

Recently awarded as one of the top Ecolodges of 2009 by National Geographic Adventure, Adrere Amellal is an absolutely beautiful Nature Lodge overlooking Lake Siwa, built by hand with mud and salt brick blending into the foot of the White Mountain cliffs in Egypt.

Leading the way in sustainable development, this luxury lodge has been built with indigenous material using traditional Siwan building techniques and styles which have a proven minimal impact on the environment. Along with construction, the operations of the ecolodge’s goal is to provide no interference with the natural habitats of the area.

One of the most exciting features of Adrere Amellal is that is has an extremely low energy consumption mostly due to the fact that they have no electricity whatsoever. The rooms and surrounding area is lit up by beeswax candles and the starry desert sky, which make evenings absolutely breathtaking. On cooler evenings coal-filled braziers are used for heating and adequate ventilation is used for warmer days so no air conditioning is necessary.

Every spacious room here is unique and is decorated with local artisan furniture and crafts, paying tribute to nature and the native heritage.

Adrere Amellal also offers some of the most delectable cuisine imaginable. Food prepared at the lodge is organically grown on the grounds or is sourced locally allowing for food to be of the highest quality and bursting with flavor. Meals are served in a different location each day adding a special touch to your dining experience.

Being set among the desert sand dunes, this is an exciting area to explore. From the Siwa’s salt lakes, guided excursions, the ruins of Shali Fortress and the local market place with full of locally made handicrafts, you will surely be swept away by this areas amazing culture and heritage.

With a commitment to preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the destination as well as the overall environmental sustainability of the location, Adrere Amellal is more than just a luxury getaway; it is a place unique unto itself and is one vacation that you will truly never forget.