The Brown Beach House Croatia is a luxurious 41-rooms and suites boutique resort and spa located along the Dalmatian Coastline in Trogir, Croatia, a UNESCO-World Heritage City. Converted from the ruins of a former Tobacco processing plant, The Brown Beach House Croatia presents a contemporary take on the classic Italian beach resort of the 1950s. Designed by renowned interior designer Saar Zafrir, the property modernizes the retro aesthetic for which the Brown Hotels group is known for.

The hotel’s signature lobby and library, succulents, Mediterranean flora and bespoke furnishings sprinkled throughout the property create an unparalleled level of modern design and leisure-soaked amenities previously unobtainable on the Croatian coastline. The signature feature of the Brown Beach House Croatia is the stunning black and white marble pool and sunbathing deck designed in the grandeur of the Roman Empire, which held control over Trogir throughout the 17th and 18th-centuries.

The Brown Beach House Croatia also features a newly opened spa, complimenting the private beach club and private access to the beach along the Adriatic Sea. The resort’s full-service spa menu offers the ultimate in year-round relaxation with massage treatments, beauty treatments and manicure/pedicures. Unwind with the signature full-body Mediterranean Relax Massage or receive a quick partial body Energising Massage or De-Stress Face, Neck and Hands treatment from the expert masseuse team.

The guest rooms and suites feature stunning views of the sea, pool club and Old City of Trogir. Guests can dine from breakfast to dinner at Cartina, a Mediterranean dining experience with a superb menu of locally-sourced fare and seafood cuisine. The local Croatia flavor fusion features dishes such as Charcoal Grilled Calamari, Sea Bass Sashimi, Local Artisan Prosciutto and fresh Burrata. Mains include local Grilled Shrimps, “40 Yolks” Fresh Fettuccine with Truffle, Charcoal Grilled Langoustines, Dry-Aged Beef Fillet, Aged Veal Minute Steak and the Aged Prime Rib Burger.

The property’s conscious approach to design infuses a calm, natural color palette and wooden tones, contemporary furniture and vintage pieces surrounded by local flora to create a cohesive, timeless look and home-like feel. The property is open year-round and has wonderful Winter packages for a quick weekend getaway and relaxation in Croatia. The December winter package starts at 248€ for a 2-night stay in a classic room to 810€ in the Presidential Suite including dinner, the Brown Hotels signature buffet breakfast, complimentary access to Spa Oasis (sauna, ham, jacuzzi and gym), 20% off the spa menu, free WiFi, free parking, bike access and lots of holiday surprises.

 

Santhosh Health, Wellbeing and Fitness Retreats has partnered with The Carlton Hotel St. Moritz to host the first Swiss iteration of the world renowned, luxurious destination retreats. From March 16^th-20^th, 2016 the winter wonderland of St. Moritz will have the honor of hosting Santhosh outside of Ibiza, its original home. Wellness travelers in search of natural beauty and wonder will be welcome to find personal balance and center themselves in the Swiss Alps.

Coinciding with the five-day Santhosh Retreat, St. Moritz’s annual Music Summit will also take place, welcoming world renowned DJ’s who will electrify the muted mountain village. Guests of the retreat will also receive complimentary access to two music events, to enjoy the once in a lifetime experience of Europe’s highest music summit.

Aside from attending the summit, Santhosh will provide its participants with ample opportunity to be taken over by rhythm, incorporating a combination of dance and Pilates to the five-day program.

In addition to the more active elements, yoga will envelop guests in calming relaxation techniques. In addition, a massage, and access to the onsite spa will be provided. Founder Samiya Nordeen compiles a holistic itinerary for her retreats to attract wellness seekers of all kinds.

Derived from the Sanskrit word for happiness, Santhosh came to mind for Nordeen on a mountaintop, after struggling to reach the peak. There, she determined to make changes in her health, and has since persevered in order to achieve personal happiness. Since that epiphany, Nordeen has achieved emotional and physical well-being and has shared her experiences in Ibiza, London, Sri Lanka, and more through Santhosh Retreats – the epitome of luxurious wellness events.

With beautiful and tranquil scenery, St. Mortiz is the next destination where her techniques will be revealed. Participants will be whisked to the elevated village set on a frozen lake in the Alps, by traveling through a UNESCO world heritage site. The Glacier Express St. Moritz is one of Switzerland’s most scenic trains and provides travelers with an unforgettable experience. Untouched mountain landscapes, deep gorges, and captivating valleys are just a glimpse of what this amazing journey will offer.

After approaching the retreat in style on a cultural journey with sophisticated ambiance, The Carlton St. Mortiz will await. The property is one with a long and rich history, dating back to 1913. In both times of hardship and success, the hotel has remained resilient and respected among the most alluring hotels in Switzerland.

The Carlton Hotel St. Moritz’s Michelin-starred restaurant Da Vittorio-St. Mortiz is amongst the top restaurants in haute cuisine. Rooted in fine technique and featuring authentic dishes, dining at Da Vittorio-St. Moritz will give epicureans a taste of Italy in the Swiss Alps. The restaurant’s traditional menu offerings include: fish and crustaceans, delectable pastas and heavenly preparations of lamb, deer, steak and duck. Guests will be treated to a tasting menu of these delicious dishes, keeping in mind best practices of health-aligned moderation.

The five-day retreat includes four nights accommodation in a shared, Junior Suite with Wi-Fi, minibar and butler service. Transportation to the hotel via the Glacier Express, departing transfer to designated flights, a curated itinerary of activities, a therapeutic full body massage, entry to two events at the Music Summit, and unlimited access to the Carlton Spa are included in the cost of the retreat (approximately 4,313 USD per person.)

 

For world explorers in search of the ultimate Valentine’s getaway, below is a selection of global, 5-star hideaways in which to escape with a significant other. From chocolate in Africa, to cava in Spain, to breath-taking views in Switzerland, and a true “Downtown Abbey” experience in the United Kingdom, any of these romantic escapes in exclusive destinations are sure to please.

The perfect retreat for chocolate loving readers of Refined-Life, Finch Hattons announces its “Chocoholic Valentine’s Day” experience – an all-inclusive stay in a lavish, tented suite with an assortment of chocolates upon arrival. Afternoon tea is served along with locally grown coffee and an array of cookies, chocolate fondue, chocolate cakes, and pastries. Chocolate dessert cooking classes are offered and taught by Executive Chef, Isaac Muhika. The most decadent element of the experience is a bush breakfast and a guided bush walk to taste Kenya’s rich culture. This wildly romantic expedition in the heart of Kenya is available February 12^th-16^th and a fourth, complimentary night’s stay is offered with a three-night minimum reservation.

For a less wild but equally delicious escape, South Africa is perfect for the globe-trotting duo.  Couples can spend this Valentine’s Day at the Ellerman House in the colorful and alluring South Africa. Instead of chocolate lovers, this escape is tailored to wine connoisseurs; The Ellerman House boasts an exquisite South African wine collection totaling over 7,500 different bottles from all throughout the Southern African region.  The two-story villas are one-of-a kind masterpieces. With three adorned bedrooms, each with a personal bathroom and terrace, the villas also include an exclusive cinema, an infinity pool, an interactive, couture kitchen, and a private chef at hand.  This exclusive special includes a 60 minute couples massage, plus sunset cocktails and canapes overlooking Bantry Bay, followed by a three course set menu dinner with wine pairing. Four night minimum stays are required.

Jumping continents, those who want a zesty side of Mediterranean added to their romantic weekend, can enjoy Valentine’s Day encompassed by the ocean, art, and Catalan culture at the Hotel Arts Barcelona. With exclusive cava and chocolate covered strawberries presented upon arrival, Hotel Arts Barcelona offers accommodations including a dinner for two at Arola Restaurant. A signature cocktail, Michelin- starred chef Sergi Arola’s creative tapas and a personalized wine pairing are on the menu for this delicious evening. In the morning, couples can indulge in an American breakfast for two at Café Veranda and linger in-room with a delayed, 4pm checkout. This special will be offered February 11^th-15^th.

Travelers in search of another Mediterranean escape, this one off the beaten path will be surprised to find it in Switzerland. Hotel Eden Roc is situated on the Italian/Swiss boarder and is offering a special Valentine’s Day experience.

Ascona, Switzerland offers lovers some of it’s very best views with an exclusive two night get-away on glistening Lake Maggiore. Guests will enjoy a couple’s massage, in traditional Swiss fashion and later be enchanted by the landscape visible from Cardada; a magical lookout point, it provides views of both Switzerland’s lowest point, Lake Maggiore and the highest point, the Dufour peak (located in the Monte Rosa mountain range.) A candlelight dinner for two will also be served while admiring the majestic lake, twinkling beneath the stars. This visionary, two-night package is offered February 12^th-15^th.

Also set in Switzerland, but in a better-known region, St. Moritz is mountainous with a sparkling dusting of snow freshly fallen for the holiday.  The Carlton Hotel is ideal for the equestrian loving pair, who would enjoy three nights in a suite or junior suite, including one VIP ticket per person to experience the White Turf exposition. White Turf is the only skijoring race in the world, during which guests enjoy a champagne bar, and Swiss buffet breakfast while watching skiers race, while gliding behind horses across a frozen lake. A food and beverage voucher is also provided for each guest to enjoy countless participating dining tents. This experience also includes access to the opulent Carlton Spa, butler service, transportation to Corviglia ski station, and 24 hour Bentley limousine service.  The special experience can be reserved February 11^th-15^th per availability.

Romance fit for a royal is alive in the beautiful Cotswolds region of England, celebrated at the original countryside manor house of Ellenborough Park. Rolling hills, award-winning spa facilities, and quintessential British High Tea are all on offer. Travelers will revel in theunsurpassed elegance of a 15th century manor house hotel, which presents an authentic experience and provides a personal immersion into a quaint British country lifestyle. This Valentine’s celebration includes 90 acres of picturesque country scenery, a day in the spa, and a seven-course, tasting menu in the gourmet AA Rosette Beaufort dining room.

London is calling and it can be answered at The Draycott where couples are invited to spend Valentine’s Day in the heart of the bustling city. Its exclusive location in an intimate garden oasis makes for a cozy town house hotel. Guests will feel right at home as they enjoy complimentary tea, champagne, hot chocolate, and a fire place in their room. Each will be outfitted with a dozen, fresh roses, an exquisite box of hand-made chocolates, a bottle of pink, chilled champagne, and silky rose petals at turn down for the ultimate in romance. A late 1pm check out, exclusive room service & a full English breakfast for two, means travelers practically never have to leave the privacy of their room. This special is available February 6^th– 14^th.

Across the Atlantic in São Paulo, Brazil, Hotel Unique is perfect for the couple looking for an intimate and exotic experience this Valentine’s Day. Offering the “Dream Purple” Package, traveling duos can enjoy a sensual night including a bottle of Veuve Clicquot compliments of Chef, Emmanuel Bassoleil, “spicy” surprises, and two “hot” DVDs. Breakfast at Skye Restaurant is included and can be enjoyed while taking in some of the best views of the São Paulo city scape or sent down to be enjoyed in the privacy of one’s own room. Couples can be enveloped in this purple hued, dreamscape until a relaxed 6pm check out.

Last but not least, Jacada Travel offers exclusive, customized retreats that intend to meet the wildest desires and dreams of any and every variety of traveler this Valentine’s day. Perfect for the adventurous couple who wants control of their day to day activities and experiences, one sample expedition is a Vietnam and Cambodia adventure scheduled through Jacada.  Couples have the option of dining privately under the stars at their own Angkor Wat temple equipped with a butler, a single violinist, or traditional Cambodian music if they prefer. Pre- dinner drinks served under a canopy with authentic Cambodian dancing and a locally produced 5 star menu is another potential itinerary element to this tailorable destination escape. Jacada provides travelers with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, such as exploring sacred temples in luxurious seclusion. Jacada can even arrange a blessing by a Buddhist monk for an extra memorable experience. Every package is priced according to the personalized excursions.

 

After the US team’s exciting win at the Women’s World Cup, the country has seen a spike in soccer enthusiasm. According to The New York Times, there were 25.4 million viewers on Fox and 1.3 million viewers on Telemundo, for a total of 26.7 million viewers.

Travelers, foodies and sports fans alike tuned into the final match in record numbers and the July 10^th ticker tape parade in NYC further contributed to the contagious energy.

With all eyes trained on the international soccer scene, there’s no better time to introduce Refined-Life readers to a groundbreaking collaboration between the world’s best soccer club, FC Barcelona and the gastronomic team of one of Europe’s iconic, luxury getaways, Hotel Arts Barcelona.

American fans of “fútbol” will now have the opportunity to explore the stadium of top stars including: Messi of Argentina, Neymar of Brazil, and Global superstar Shakira’s husband, Barcelona’s own Piqué.

With exclusive access and a guide, travelers can enter the same tunnel through which the players access the arena. Fingers brushing against cool walls, the adventurous traveler can imagine his or herself as a cleated team member, about to debut to cheering fans, feet planted on field, pointed toe connecting with the emblematic black and white sphere, as it soars across the field and the citrus scents of the Barcelona summer air invigorate the senses.

After the tour, seated in the Camp Nou Lounge, which overlooks the verdant field where the action unfolds, foodies can indulge in Estrella Damm. As the official beer of the lounge and the region, it has been crafted in Barcelona for over 140 years. The Mediterranean answer to a refreshing summer beer, the brand is also running a corresponding Instagram competition, with winners receiving a uniform signed by the team member of choice.

There will also be a selection of spirits and local cavas to add to the festivities. In addition, travelers can enjoy a variety of vermouth-based martinis, as they have enjoyed resurgence in popularity within the city and surrounding areas.

Catering is provided by Hotel Arts Barcelona’s Executive chef and the hotel’s “Arts Catering” team. Dishes on the afternoon menu include: Galician clams with local sauce, to the Catalan classic, acorn-fed, Iberian Ham, a thinly shaved delicacy, which is said to melt on the tongue.

In the evening, paired with the intimate mood is an option between two main courses, framed by starters and deserts. The fish course is sourced locally from the infamous Boqueria Market, which is on the “to-see” list of food-conscious traveler’s. Alternately, a sirloin beef procured from the nearby region of Girona, Spain is also available.

Exceptional food and beverage, paired with ambiance overlooking the field where globally admired fútbol players take to the turf is in store for travelers who book the Camp Nou Lounge experience.

Rates start at 85€ per person, plus the nightly cost of a deluxe room, with the possibility of private transfer at an additional cost. For reservations and additional information please contact Noemi.Manso@ritzcarlton.com

Readers of Refined Life can receive this guided tour of the stadium and dine on traditional Catalan cuisine now through August 1, 2015.

There is to be a new kid on the Nigerian block with the George Hotel set to open its welcoming arms and doors in the next month. Situated in Africa’s largest city, this new luxe option for travel to this powerhouse metropolis compliments the madness of a bustling population, exploding economy and bourgeoning cultural scene with a hospitality beacon.

Conveniently located on Ikoyi Island, Lagos, the tranquil setting of the George will soft open in June of 2015 as an oasis for leisure, business and culinary travel to Nigeria. Having been described as a city of a racing economy and growing class of wealth, the David’s are striving to be the Goliath’s and the hospitality industry is accommodating to the important needs within the luxury travel industry for the alluring location.

To ensure a comfortable stay on all levels the hotel has extensive leisure facilities throughout the hotel including a fitness center, gymnasium, cocktail bar as well as a pool deck. Airport transfers, 24 Hour in room dining, complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, beautifully landscaped gardens and high security are all included in addition to an attentive concierge service.

A taste of the finest cuisine in Lagos is on offer at a fine-dining restaurant accommodating 36 together with a buffet restaurant seating up to 100. 24-hour in room dining services are also available with all 62 of the George’s rooms consisting of the highest quality linens, guest amenities and in-room conveniences and are divided into pilot, standard, superior and luxury rooms as well as two penthouse suites.

Seamlessly mixing business with pleasure, a contemporary and ultra-luxurious experience awaits business travelers, foreign representatives and government embassies with the highest standard of accommodation and five-star service. The George provides a number of meeting rooms and boardrooms, including an executive boardroom and a business center, all offering state of the art AV equipment.

The George Hotel is dedicated to providing the best customer experience from excellent service, outstanding amenities to superb dining facilities all on a five-star, international level.

The Algarve has been a destination for years. Europeans have long enjoyed this warm and sandy Portuguese paradise, and many have made this southern region their home.

Places like Portimão – famous for its Praia da Rocha beach, the vibrant town of Albufeira and its nightclubs, and the city of Lagos, surrounded by luxury resorts, have made the Algarve one of the most popular beach destinations on the old continent. But like all beaten tracks, there is always that surprising spot that, somehow, manages to keep out of the mainstream, and be true to its true identity. Sagres is such place.

The Portuguese once called it the end of the world. A dramatic title, for sure, but could not be more worthy. This little town of 2,000 sits quietly in the southwestern-most point in Europe. Its name derives from the word Sagrado (‘Holy’) and various peoples worshipped their divinities there. The Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians and Romans believed that, because of the lack of human settlement, this was the gathering place of the gods.

Because of this location, Sagres and Cape São Vincente played a key role in the Portuguese Age of Exploration. In the 15^th century, Prince Henry established a nautical base there, which made Sagres, and its fortress the hub of Portuguese maritime exploration. When you’re standing at the very edge of the fortress, you can almost see caravels sailing by, south bond, with its brave sailors hoping to find exotic places and luxury goods. In the very beginning, leaving Sagres was a leap into the unknown.

The town is part of the Costa Vicentina National Park, which stretches along the Alentejo region coastline. As a protected natural area, you will not find the typical summer hype, but you are a short drive away from golf courses, bars, shops and nautical sports centers. There are a few nice local restaurants, but if you’re looking for something more sophisticated, you will find it at the Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel. Open for business since 2010, this is one of the best luxury, family beach hotels around. It was voted ‘Portugal’s Leading Family Resort’ on the World Traveler Awards in 2013, and ‘Europe’s Leading Villa Resort’ in 2014.

Whether one chooses to stay at the hotel or at the resort’s village houses, two things are guaranteed: a stylish design and a family friendly atmosphere.

The architects’ choice of natural materials – such as cork, wood or stone – blends the hotel with the surrounding landscape, in a simple, sustainable harmony.

The food is a point of pride but based on local ingredients and traditions. The three restaurants and four bars in the resort, use only quality, local produce. From the traditional fish dish at ‘O Terraço’ restaurant, to the international cuisine at the ‘Os Gambozinos’, to the light food at the ‘Family & Surf M – Bar’. And of course, all this comes with award-winning Portuguese wine.

The resort features a wide rage of activities for children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. There are several activities clubs, which provide fun workshops such as face painting, treasure hunts, arts & crafts, but also sports activities (tennis, windsurfing, swimming, etc.) and a game room with the most popular video games, pool table, table tennis and foosball.

So, while your kids are having the (supervised) time of their lives with other children, you can pamper yourself at the Finisterra Spa or simply enjoy a lazy afternoon, looking at the Atlantic Ocean from the beach pool. If laziness isn’t your thing, walk down the private path to the beach and take a stroll to the fortress.

Martinhal offers family deals, specifically for the US market, and has recently started a ‘Babymoon’ package, designed to give parents-to-be a luxury relaxing escape vacation during pregnancy. This offer includes accommodation, breakfast, one meal per day, access to all facilities and a spa treatment for the mother-to-be.

Sagres and Martinhal are the ultimate duo: the ever so rare combination of an authentic and historical town, and the luxury of a modern beach resort. What was once the end of the world is now the perfect place to start your family vacation.

Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel is a luxury family resort with a playground of possibilities and more than 365 different things to do all year-round. Located close to the historic village of Sagres, in the Western Algarve, Portugal, this region as temperate climate all-year round. The 100-acre beachfront resort is surrounded by the Costa Vicentina Natural Park.

For more information about booking or the Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel visit www.martinhal.com or call +351 282 240 200.

 

 

 

Once the private estate of A&P heir Huntington Hartford II and the secret escape of the world’s privileged, the ultra-luxurious resort One&Only Ocean Club, nestled on Paradise Island, is renowned for its legendary sophistication and contemporary elegance.

A member of the esteemed One&Only collection — which currently encompasses eight high-end properties in destinations around the globe, with more on the way — it is no surprise that this Bahamian outpost is a favorite among discerning travelers, known for the brand’s signature first-rate and unobtrusive customer service, catering to every guest’s whims.

The resort is a playground of sorts for the elite, boasting world-class tennis on six Har-Tru courts, an array of watersports amid some of the most beautiful waters in the Caribbean, a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center, and championship golf on the 18-hole Tom Weiskopf-designed Ocean Club Golf Course.

There is no shortage of guest accommodation options, all perfectly tailored to suit the needs of every traveler, and each offering the personalized service of a butler for the duration of one’s stay. The five two-story buildings of the Crescent Wing offer luxury guestrooms and suites, all with commanding views of endless beach and ocean from a private balcony or terrace, while the two-story Hartford Wing possesses ocean- and garden-view rooms with classic colonial architecture. The property also houses three spectacular private villas, each comprised of more than 4,400 square feet of living space, private infinity-edge lap pools, state-of-the-art fitness equipment and landscaped gardens.

All guest accommodations feature beautifully upholstered mahogany furniture and headboards; luxurious Frette linens, towels and bathrobes; pillow menus; sliding louvered doors that open onto private balconies or terraces; a mini-bar stocked with essentials; 24-hour room service; and the latest cutting-edge technology. Amenities in the private villas include everything from a personal chef to iPods with customized playlists and special VIP children’s programs.

One&Only Ocean Club offers sumptuous cuisine day and night, most notably at Dune, the chic beachfront restaurant by internationally renowned Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. The 150-seat elegant eatery, designed by interior designer Christian Liaigre, is set literally in the dunes serving an innovative blend of French-Asian cuisine infused with local influences. The resort also recently introduced weekly Thursday-night Bahamian barbecues to its already extensive list of dining options. These specialty nights offer guests a casual, ocean-view setting featuring live action stations and a buffet of fine cuisine.

Arguably the most unique and notable aspects of the luxe property are the terraced gardens, fountains, bronze and marble statuary imported from Europe, along with an awe-inspiring 12th-century Augustinian cloister, shipped piece-by-piece from France.

The grounds provide the perfect backdrop for celebrations, including destination weddings, with guests feeling as if they have their own private Bahamian estate to themselves for their nuptials. For added ease, the resort recently expanded its team of destination wedding and honeymoon specialists to highlight the wealth of opportunities at the resort for special affairs of all kinds.

A freshwater pool overlooks the resort’s famed terraced gardens for guests’ enjoyment, separate from a dedicated family pool, complete with waterfalls and a jetted fountain.

The property’s popular KidsOnly program offers young ones unique off-property excursions, as well as on-property interactive activities such as pool games, arts & crafts, video and board games, computer time and more. Children can also experience a culinary academy with One&Only chefs and learn tips from golf and tennis professionals. The KidsOnly program is complimentary to guests, with off-property excursions at an added cost, while the property also offers a professional babysitting service to give adults the freedom to enjoy their evening events.

Guests of the resort should be prepared to feel endlessly pampered at this tropical oasis, with a host of superlative touches while relaxing at the pool and beach – such as frozen grapes, cool lemonade and cold towels. Visitors can also get a personally drawn bath with rose petals and votive candles in their rooms, special dining arrangements under the stars or on the beach, and the resort’s signature champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries delivered every afternoon.

With a seemingly endless list of high-end offerings and immaculate grounds, it’s no wonder discerning travelers still flock to this piece of paradise on the aptly named Paradise Island, just as the likes of William Randolph Hearst, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Benny Goodman, Burl Ives and a host of dukes, earls and ambassadors have for decades.

For more information, visit www.oneandonlyresorts.com.

All photos in this article are courtesy of One&Only Resorts