Boca Raton Resort & Club has rates startig at $239 a night through Sept. 30. Some packages include breakfast for two, free parking, 25 percent off golf green fees, 25 percent off spa services, waiver on a daily resort fee and a 2 pm checkout. Call 888-543-1286 or visit the website.

The Breakers Palm Beach offers weekday rates starting at $289 a night from June 1 through Sept. 30. Packages include such incentives as free continental breakfast, kids’ meals, kids’ day camp and valet parking, plus discounts on golf, dining, spa, bungalow rentals and on-site shopping. Call 855-313-8851 or visit the website.

Source: Orlando Sentinel

The group currently boasts seven thriving resorts in Thailand, two in the Maldives, one in Bali and two Middle East additions (12 in total), and enthusiastically anticipates the debut of seven new resorts in China, the Maldives, Bali, Oman and the UAE by the end of 2011. Such growth reflects a 60% expansion of the portfolio in existing and new markets.

Opening in 2011:
Anantara Kihavah Villas, Maldives will offer the ultimate in privacy and luxury. Each of the 78 spacious over-water and beach suites are set within the lush tropical nature of the island with private infinity pools, high ceilings, timber interiors and terrazzo floors. The resort will boast five dining options including an underwater dining experience showcasing the idyllic location of the dazzling Indian Ocean. Guests can also enjoy the signature Anantara Spa journey and enjoy a wide range of unique Maldivian cultural experiences. The resort is scheduled to open in January 2011.

Anantara Sanya Resort & Spa is situated on the serene Luhuitou Peninsula, Xiaodonghai, on the southernmost point of Hainan Island in south China. The luxury boutique property will comprise of 128 guestrooms and 20 pool villas flanked by two beaches, Xiaodonghai Bay and Luhuitou Bay, and a coastline that stretch of over 1000 metres. The renowned Sanya tourism attraction, Luhuitou Park, is located on the hill overlooking the peninsula and provides a setting for 1000 year old romantic fables as well as panoramic views of the vast sea, the rolling mountains and Sanya city, which is only 3 km away.

Anantara Xishuangbanna Resort & Spa is located in the midst of the Hengduan Mountains, Xishuangbanna in Yunnan province, an idyllic mountainous setting fringing northern Laos. The resort is set on the banks of the Luosuo River and will feature 103 guestrooms with Dai characteristics, including 80 deluxe rooms and 23 pool villas. The region is home to the indigenous Dai people who are renowned for their folklore and colourful festivals such as the water splashing celebration.

Xishuangbanna is rich in nature including rain forests, rare plants and wildlife such as the Asian elephant which is still found in the wild. Nearby Xishuangbanna Gasa Airport provides connections to Shangri La, in addition to major hubs such as Kunming and Beijing.

Anantara Al Madina A’Zarqa Resort & Spa, Oman is set on a natural peninsula jutting into the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Oman. The 122 room luxury resort and spa is located 60 minutes from the historical city of Muscat and just 40 minutes from Seeb International Airport in Muscat. The traditional Arabian architecture will be seamlessly blended with modern innovation and service. The award-winning Anantara Spa will offer a rejuvenating and relaxing experience.

Anantara Uluwatu Resort & Spa is set to open in Bali, the island of a thousand temples, and the island of paradise. Perched high on a limestone cliff on Bali’s south-western tip, each of the suites at Anantara Uluwatu offers unobstructed views of the ocean and the infamous Balinese sunset. The resort will feature 77 spacious suites and three international dining options in a contemporary and comfortable setting. The warmth of local culture and the indigenous natural elements give a unique welcome that is always longed by holiday seekers.

Al Sahel by Anantara, Sir Bani Yas Island will be a unique addition to the destination of Abu Dhabi. 30 luxury chalets, each with private plunge pools, will be set in the west section of the Arabian Wildlife Park. Overlooking the rugged landscape and salt-dome hilltops, the rustic lodges will be surrounded by a lush grass savannah, affording guests’ uninterrupted views of grazing sand gazelles, as well as Arabia’s elusive mountain gazelle and Oryx.

Al Yamm by Anantara, Sir Bani Yas Island will offer tranquil sea facing chalets on the beautiful eastern shores of Sir Bani Yas Island, surrounded by natural sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. The spacious chalets will also edge a peaceful lagoon rich with high mangroves, treating guests to stunning views of the elegant flamingos that favour this verdant sanctuary.

“We’ve come a long way since our first resort opening in 2001,” said Mr. Peter Carmichael, Senior Vice President, Anantara. “As we move into our tenth anniversary year we will open seven stunning new resorts that will offer guests luxury and tranquility in surroundings that are culturally and environmentally uplifting. As we continue to expand, our initial goal of providing a unique and authentic destination experience for all our guests will always remain the same.” 

Source: eTravel Blackboard

Planning a wedding can be hectic and a common mishap among couples is to leave honeymoon preparation to the last minute, which means they run the risk of resorts being fully booked and international flights prices at levels beyond their budget.

Escape Travel brand leader Sally Wiseman said the today’s generation of lovebirds was hunting for bargains and saving money by locking in their honeymoon in advance.
“Young couples are travel savvy when it comes to getting the best deal and are stretching their budgets further by booking their honeymoon up to two years in advance because the price is right,” said Sally.

“The perfect honeymoon will be different for everyone, so it is important for couples to know what they want early to secure the best price and availability at the destination of their choice.

“The recent strength of the Australian dollar against the US greenback and the Euro has contributed to affordability across the globe, seeing some couples switch their choice of destination from the Queensland Islands to Hawaii.”

Sally said there was still strong interest for traditional beach honeymoons in Fiji, Thailand and Bali, although new destinations such as the Philippines, Cook Islands, Kota Kinabalu and Honolulu were on the love radar for 2011.

See below for Escape Travel’s top 5 honeymoon beach breaks, offering newly weds excellent value for next year.

1. Fiji from $379* per person twin share. Price includes a 35% discount on four nights’ at the 5-star Sheraton Fiji Resort in an Ocean Breeze room, breakfast daily, use of kayaks and windsurfers, and daily activities such as aqua aerobics, volleyball and cultural demonstrations. Honeymooners receive a bottle of sparkling wine on arrival. Valid for travel from January 10 to March 31, 2011 and for sale until December 31, 2010.

2. Phuket from $599* per person twin share. Package includes eight nights for the price of four at the 5-star Moevenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach, return private car airport transfers and breakfast daily. Bonuses include a room upgrade, welcome drink, a flower lei, decorated bed and complimentary sparkling wine on arrival. Valid for travel between April 1 and October 31, 2011, and for sale until March 31, 2011.

3. Honolulu from $799* per person twin share. Package includes eight nights at the 4.5-star Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa in a City View Room and return airport transfers. Honeymoon bonuses include a complimentary room upgrade, a meet and greet service and flower lei upon arrival. Valid for travel between January 4 and June 30, 2011 and for sale until June 30, 2011.

4. Bali from $955* per person twin share. Package includes six nights at the 5-star Conrad Bali Resort in a Deluxe Garden room, breakfast daily, return airport transfers and a free US$500 resort credit per room. Honeymoon bonuses included a complimentary a welcome drink, chilled towel, souvenir and daily water, coffee and herbal teas in room daily. Valid for travel from February 7 to March 31, 2011 and on sale until November 30, 2010 unless sold out.

5. Mauritius from $1799* per person twin share. Package includes five nights at the 5-star Shandrani Resort & Spa, return airport transfers, breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, all snacks and pastries served at the bar, a mini bar, premium alcoholic drinks, unlimited access to the nine-hole and putting golf course, nightly entertainment and more. Honeymoon bonuses include a bonus 45-minute massage, French champagne and tropical fruits in room on arrival, a gift voucher for use at the Beachcomber Boutique, and a treatment for the couple in the Spa by Clarins. Valid for travel from May 1 to September 30, 2011 and for sale until September 30, 2011.
*Price is subject to change and availability at the time of booking.

And whether travelers are seeking a luxury resort spa experience, family-friendly vacation packages or distinctive cultural experiences, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., a global leader in hotels, service and lifestyle, is welcoming them to discover the pleasures of a two-, three- or four-day vacation.

Although each Ritz-Carlton hotel and resort offers its own unique vacation packages, guests will find that many properties offer the following getaways:

Reconnect. This package includes deluxe accommodations and a resort credit.
Bed & Breakfast. Guests can enjoy overnight accommodations and breakfast for two each morning.

Club Level Experience. This luxurious vacation package features overnight Club Level accommodations and other amenities such as overnight valet parking and internet access.
Exclusive Package When You Pay with Any American Express® Card. Plan a weekend getaway featuring deluxe accommodations, a hotel credit per stay, and a room upgrade based on availability upon check-in.

For guests seeking a luxury resort spa experience, The Ritz-Carlton offers a wide array of personalized therapies, as well as three signature treatments available most Ritz-Carlton spas. They include:

Drift to Sleep. This relaxing spa ritual begins with an exfoliating body scrub followed by an aromatic milk bath and a peaceful sleep massage with warm aromatherapy oils. Afterward, guests may enjoy a 30-minute power nap on a warmed treatment table.

Eco-Luxe. These high-touch, low technology eco-friendly spa treatments use natural products to help guests achieve deep relaxation.

Mama Mio. Designed for the mom-to-be, these soothing, pre- and post-natal spa treatments increase circulation, alleviate tired muscles, improve skin elasticity and reduce water retention.

Before planning your getaway, please review the vacation packages and luxury resort spa experiences available at your destination of choice.

Please note: Not all vacation packages and spa services listed are available at every Ritz-Carlton hotel and resort. Packages are subject to change.

Conde Nast’s ranking, based on a reader survey, breaks the winners up into separate lists by the type of spa (hotel, resort or cruise ship) and by region.

Hawaii is represented with a list of 20 resort spas, but when all overall rankings are combined, the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, the Lodge at Koele, which tops the Hawaii list, is tied for fourth place among all ranked resorts in North America, Hawaii, Central America, the Caribbean and among cruise lines.

The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is No. 2 on the Hawaii list and at No. 11 overall.

Tied for No. 20 among the overall top 25, which is expanded due to ties throughout the list, are the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai and the Hotel Hana-Maui and Honua Spa.

Conde Nast reports that the spa industry has exploded in America over the past two decades and that spas are part of a $12.8 billion global industry that saw nearly 18 percent growth last year.

Source: Star Bulletin

Guests pay only the published nightly all-inclusive or EP rate, which allows up to four persons to share a guestroom for select Antigua and BVI resorts. The new summer Caribbean vacation savings are valid for travel from April 15 through August 30, 2010, when booked by July 15, 2010, and require a minimum three-night stay. Families, for instance can bring two kids for no additional cost. While four ladies traveling together might want to enjoy a girls getaway. Or two couples who always vacation together can enjoy this cost savings too.

“This summer why not pay one nightly rate on a luxury Caribbean vacation and bring four people? We think this new idea will fit in nicely with vacationers’ summer plans and offer an affordable option for families, girlfriend getaways and mini-reunions,”

said Steven Heydt, Elite Island Resorts’ president.

“Pay for 1 & Bring Up to 4″ is featured at the following Antigua and BVI resorts:

- St. James’s Club & Villas, Antigua: a club-like resort on a private 100-acre estate with a dedicated kids club (starting nightly rate: $416 all inclusive)
 
- The Verandah Resort & Spa, Antigua: an eco-friendly beach escape perfect for couples and families (starting nightly rate: $416 all inclusive)

- Long Bay Beach Resort & Villas, Tortola, BVI: a plantation-style villa resort ideal for those who love to sail and dive (starting nightly rate: $375 EP plus tax and service)

Known for its casually elegant Caribbean resorts, stunning locations and caring, personal service, Elite Island Resorts’ all inclusive rates feature all meals, top-shelf liquor, non-motorized water sports, entertainment, tax and service charges.

Inspired by West Indies style, resort accommodations at the Clearwater property will consist of 250 deluxe, one- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens. Resort amenities will include the eco-friendly Sandava Spa, a 24-hour StayFit@Hyatt gym, the Camp Hyatt kids program, indoor and outdoor function space, an eighth floor pool deck with 20 air-conditioned poolside cabanas and a children’s pool, as well as a pool and hot tub on the 16th floor Sky Terrace. Three dining options are available at the resort including a Hyatt signature restaurant, SHOR.

Incorporating the brand qualities of Hyatt’s brand, Andaz, which debuted in 2007 with Andaz Liverpool Street, London, followed by Andaz West Hollywood (January 2009) and Andaz Wall Street (January 2010), Andaz San Diego will be vibrant yet relaxed and will reflect the cultural scene and spirit of the surrounding neighborhood. In late spring of this year, Andaz 5th Avenue will open in the heart of midtown Manhattan across from the NY Public Library.

Source: Travel Agent Central

Treatments will use the luxury organic brand Ila and fashionable Anne Semonin products, with guests indulging in therapies as varied as a Seaweed Bath, its contents sourced from the Hebrides, or the rather more glamorous experience of bathing in the warm waters of the Dark Pool, beneath a crystal chandelier. The spa, like its host hotel, aims to sparkle, too, with green credentials that feature energy efficiency methods including a water-conservation system that gathers rainwater.

Down in the honey-hued Cotswolds, the first Temple Spa in the UK opens this month in a converted coach house at the super-stylish Cotswold House Hotel in Chipping Campden. The benefits of its treatments are self-explanatory – from the “Aaahhh! Foot and Leg Energiser” to the “Head in the Clouds Massage” – and will use herbs freshly picked from the hotel garden.

The New Forest’s latest boutique hotel, Lime Wood, from the co-founder of the Hotel du Vin chain, is already open for business but its spa won’t be welcoming visitors until next autumn. Expect treatments using Bamford products and facilities including a hydrotherapy pool.

In the West Country, a luxurious new retreat called The Cornwall Hotel Spa & Estate will open in February in Tregorrick. The centrepiece of its Clearing Spa, set in a converted stables, is a chemical-free, infinity-edge pool with retractable glass walls opening on to a sub-tropical walled garden. Refinery and Aromatherapy Associates products will feature in the treatment rooms.

For high-altitude relaxation, head for the Aquagranda Livigno Wellness Park, which just opened in the laid-back, wallet-friendly Italian ski resort of Livigno. Thalassotherapy and salt baths with colour and music therapy are among specialist offerings.

The Mandarin Oriental group has been busy this year with new openings in Barcelona and Las Vegas. The Vegas outpost is tapping into the city’s growing non-gaming scene with its Eastern-inspired wellness therapies, featuring Aromatherapy Associates‘ products. This sizeable Strip-side haven has 17 treatment rooms, areas for relaxation and water experiences, a fitness centre, yoga studio and a swimming pool with 20 cabanas.

Meanwhile, in Antigua, there will be no more in-room treatments for guests at the newly refurbished private-island resort of Jumby Bay. Eighteen months of work and an outlay of $28m (£17.5m) has produced a new beachside Sense spa – all polished marble and teak – which will use home-grown products. The Lava Shell massage, using specially activated seashells to promote a sense of wellbeing, is just one of its more curious treatments.

The opening of Six Senses Latitude Laamu in the early part of the year will mark the popular wellness group’s debut in the Maldives. Groovy double-treatment Bamboo Nests as well as holistic therapies using fresh natural products are among the delights promised.

And the funky W hotel brand will open its first retreat in South-east Asia, the W Retreat Koh Samui, on 1 April 2010. Its Away Spa will offer a “thaimazcal” (pictured) with treatments based on Brazilian tribal rituals. Finally, to Dubai, where the Burj Dubai – the tallest building in the world – is due to open tomorrow. One of its exclusive features will be the first Armani Hotel with its own spa using Armani’s skincare line.

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Source: The Independent

In the past, the words “tropical” and “paradise” elicited visions of sea breezes rustling the palm trees along ivory white sand shorelines and pastel-blue waters, sailboats cruising by. Now, for most people, it still includes all of that…but may also include an amazing massage or exotic spa treatment on a pier over the azure blue water or herbal rainforest mud bath. Could hours of relaxation and self-indulgent quiet time spent in a tranquil spa environment while receiving soul-renewing treatments really be yours for a lifetime? For those who love to be pampered at a world-class spa there are now more choices of second and vacation home communities offering spa facilities than ever before. Luxury Living International magazine shortens the list for you with its Top 10 Spa Residences in Paradise, the finest places at which to own property—and indulge— in a piece of the pampered life in the Caribbean or Latin America; from Costa Rica to Grand Cayman and Mexico to Antigua. The feature story is currently online here part of its new “Best of Paradise” series.

For many, on-property spas and spa access greatly enhance the allure of vacation or second home properties, and the increase in top-tier spa services in luxury resort communities reflects this growing development trend. Luxury Living Intentional magazine’s Top 10 Spa Residences in Paradise is the first installment in a monthly series called “Best of Paradise”; an LLI exclusive, with features profiling the best of the best, the crème de la crème of vacation homes and second home communities and amenities in tropical destinations. Each month, the “Best of Paradise” delivers careful and thorough research on meaningful topics designed to help our readers find the best real estate and opportunities for the good life in the paradises of the Caribbean and Latin America. Rest assured that years of research, travel and investigation abroad go into every installment of the “Best of Paradise” series.

LLI magazine does the research and homework to offer you our selections, whether it’s the best Caribbean island to own real estate, the finest vacation homes or the best luxury golf communities in the tropics of the Caribbean, Latin and Central America. LLI is the authority on paradise and the top resource for people making decisions on where, how and what to buy in the way of real estate. A vast array of factors are considered when choosing or buying a destination property for vacation or for retirement and close proximity to spa services can certainly influence those decisions. Owning in a community with a world-class spa provides unparalleled access to relaxation and rejuvenation: waking up to the waves crashing on the beach and walking barefoot to a stress-relieving massage in your favorite robe is the perfect way to clear the mind and renew the spirit. Below, are excerpts from the first installment of Luxury Living International’s new series, “Best in Paradise” The Top Ten Spa Residences in Paradise.

“The awarding-winning Cabo Spa at Esperanza in Cabo San Lucas is a celebration of local beauty. Fresh fruits, minerals and herbs are prepared daily for rejuvenating treatments for the face and body: Papaya, mango, sea greens and hibiscus are some of the indigenous ingredients incorporated in treatments. Private yoga instructors are on hand to suit individual needs.”

“Four Seasons Punta Mita and the Apuane Spa at Punta Mita is perfect for couples looking to rejuvenate and relax. A private spa suite complete with a jacuzzi, champagne and chocolate service is ideal for an intimate getaway. A sun-drenched steam room and private outdoor terrace combine for absolute tranquility. Cactus pulp and tequila massages are popular choices…”.

Luxury Living International is considered by most to be the #1 resource for those who live or are looking to invest in real estate and the good life in the paradises of the Caribbean, Latin America and Central America. Covering the hottest real estate markets in places such as Belize, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Bahamas, St.Lucia, St. Kitts or Antigua, Luxury Living International uses informative and engaging editorial with stunning photography to showcase real estate in these and other tropical destinations. Whether it’s golf communities, eco-friendly communities or just amazing luxury vacation homes sitting on white sand beaches LLI is the guide to the good life.

Source: PRWeb

The Lauderdale Luxe Collection includes 13 destination properties that share the common attributes of four-star, four-diamond or better ranking, full-service restaurant and on-premises spa or dedicated/contracted services. Membership in the Lauderdale Luxe Collection is by invitation only, and many of the properties included are either new or have recently been updated.

Additionally, Greater Fort Lauderdale’s luxury lodging product now has its own cyber-home . The Lauderdale Luxe microsite has dedicated categories for the hotels in the Luxe Collection; along with a section on dining and insider information on the area’s finest culinary experiences, such as dockside dining along the Intracoastal Waterway. It also includes a “pursuits” section that showcases Greater Fort Lauderdale’s beyond-the-beach casual sophistication with information on spas, vibrant nightlife, high-end shopping, and more.

“The launch of the new Lauderdale Luxe Collection is a sure sign to visitors we are truly a transformed beach chic hot spot,” said Nicki E. Grossman, president of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Savvy travelers will appreciate the high-end product we now have to offer here in Greater Fort Lauderdale.”

Following is a rundown of Greater Fort Lauderdale’s Lauderdale Luxe Collection properties:

* The Atlantic Hotel: Overlooking an endless ribbon of pristine, golden Fort Lauderdale beach, The Atlantic Hotel offers 124 deluxe guestrooms and suites, including a signature penthouse collection, and evokes the sense of an exclusive oceanfront club. Guests can relax and indulge at the hotel’s Spa Atlantic, and can enjoy dining with ocean views at acclaimed Trina Restaurant & Lounge. The hotel also offers 1,160 square feet of fully-wired event space, including a stylish poolside patio terrace for groups of up to 100. The property is located moments away from world-class shopping, galleries and restaurants and offers an ideal location for beachfront relaxing.

* Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa: Located on 16 oceanfront acres, Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa is in the final stages of a $50 million renovation to celebrate its 25th anniversary. The multimillion-dollar redesign includes the additions of a 10,000-square-foot ballroom and new restaurant, each overlooking the resort’s private beach; expanded fitness facilities at The Spa at Harbor Beach, and updated décor for all 650 guestrooms and suites, most of which have private balconies. 3030 Ocean is the hotel’s upscale specialty restaurant, helmed by Chef Dean James Max and offering fresh American seafood creations. Other dining options include Riva and Sea Level Restaurant and Ocean Bar (opening 2010). The resort also offers 40,000 square feet of flexible indoor meeting space, 20,000 square feet of outdoor oceanfront terraces and 200,000 square feet of powdery beachfront for signature events.

* Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort: With a spirit of elegance that is personalized for each guest, this beachfront resort features 374 well-appointed studios and suites; golf at Parkland Golf & Country Club and 10,000 square feet of meeting space. The 20,000 square foot Sunrise Terrace offers an infinity pool and private poolside cabanas. Other resort offerings include a beach concierge; indoor and outdoor spa treatments and poolside children’s activities. Dining options include ilios, a Mediterranean restaurant and bar featuring Executive Chef Sean McDonald’s Tapas Tasting Menu; 24 hour In Room Dining Service and Le Marche Gourmet Market & Bakery, offering Starbucks coffee, pizzas, paninis, and more. In 2010, the resort plans to welcome an additional ocean-front restaurant.

* Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina: Offering 589 rooms, the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina has just completed a comprehensive $70 million transformation. All public spaces were completely redesigned, including a new lobby, modernized guestrooms and suites, refurbished swimming pool and tropical deck area, as well as enhancements to the 21,000 square feet of existing meeting and event facilities. The hotel’s new signature restaurant, Jeffrey Chodorow’s celebrated China Grill, offers innovative Asian-inspired cuisine, while The G – a stylish lunchtime spot overlooking the hotel’s 33-slip inlet marina – offers more casual fare. Guests can enjoy preferred access to Spa 66 at neighboring LXR sister property Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six and complimentary shuttle service to nearby Fort Lauderdale beach.

* Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six Resort & Spa: Recently unveiling a $40 million renovation, the resort offers 384 stylish guestrooms and suites with a distinctive blend of casual sophistication. Enhancements include a complete redesign of the deluxe lanai rooms with retro-modern appointments; transformation of the lobby with a sleek, new bar; refurbishments to the resort’s Tower guestrooms and suites; and upgrades to the three-pool waterfall oasis and lanai courtyard including the addition of cabanas and lush landscaping. The resort’s 25,000 square feet of meeting space have also been updated, including the famed Pier Top, known for its 360 degree panoramic views, which was redesigned into a special occasion venue. The resort also features its 127 slip world-class marina and aquatic center. Dining options include Grille 66 & Bar offering steak and seafood, along with Pelican Landing, The Lounge, Mariners Cafe, Orchids Pool Bar and the Pier Top Brunch, voted South Florida’s #1 Brunch.

* Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Conference Center & Spa: Located in Weston, Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Conference Center & Spa features 501 spacious, modern guestrooms, four swimming pools, multiple dining options – including the acclaimed Ireland’s Steakhouse, Banyan Restaurant, Cabana Bar & Café and Bar Zen – and a state of the art conference center spanning 60,000 square feet of meeting space. Additionally, the AAA-rated Four Diamond hotel boats the first and only destination Elizabeth Arden Red Door Lifestyle Spa that provides guests with an unmatched spa experience.

* Lago Mar Resort & Club: The Lago Mar Resort & Club is located between the Atlantic Ocean and Lake Mayan in the exclusive Harbor Beach neighborhood of Fort Lauderdale. The hotel features 164 spacious suites and 40 oversized guestrooms, with a mix of Mediterranean and Key West influences. Other resort amenities include a 6,000-square foot spa; a Cybex-equipped fitness center; Acquario, the resort’s signature restaurant featuring Northern Italian cuisine; and a conference center offering 12,000 square feet of flexible event space

* The Pillars at New River Sound: The Pillars is one of Fort Lauderdale’s premier boutique hotels and the only member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World in the destination. The hotel offers 18 beautifully appointed guestrooms and five suites, decorated with a mix of British Colonial and Island Plantation themes. Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, The Pillars is home to The Secret Garden restaurant – an exclusive experience available only to hotel guests and select friends of the hotel – along with contracted spa services available in-room, dockside or poolside.

* The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale: The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale debuted on August 11, 2008, and features 192 guest rooms and suites; 24,000 square feet of light-filled meeting space; a raised 29,000 square foot tropical sundeck with an infinity pool and private cabanas and a destination Spa with an 8,500 square foot, water view fitness center. Four dining and entertainment options include three-meal-a-day restaurant with seating indoors or al fresco on an ocean-view patio, a picturesque oceanfront Lobby Bar, a dramatic Wine Room with a 5,000 bottle wine cellar and rare Scotch collection, and a seventh floor Pool Bar with commanding ocean views.

* Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino: Located in Hollywood, Florida, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino affords guests the opportunity to play, stay, dine, and shop. The Green Lodging Certified, AAA, Four Diamond-rated resort showcases 500 luxurious guest rooms, 16 restaurants and lounges, 40,000-square-feet of meeting room space, a European-style spa, auto salon, 22 retail shops, 14 nightclubs, Paradise Live, and Hard Rock Live. The property’s casino features eighty-seven tables offering Blackjack, Baccarat, Pai-Gow, Three Card and Texas Hold’em Poker and Vegas-style slots.

* W Fort Lauderdale: The first W Hotel in Florida, the $205 million hotel opened its doors on April 30, 2009, and is located on a 4.5-acre site offering dramatic views of both the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway. Amenities include W Hotel’s Whatever/Whenever services, a signature Stephen Starr gourmet restaurant- Steak 954, an inviting Living Room lobby, Whiskey Blue bar, a state-of-the-art SWEAT® fitness center, the renowned Bliss® Spa, and a one-of-a-kind oceanfront infinity-edge pool. In addition, the W Fort Lauderdale boasts 12,400 square feet of meeting and event space including Sensory® Set Up.

* The Westin Beach Resort, Fort Lauderdale: Recently re-opened after completing the first phase of a multi-million dollar rebirth, the resort’s 433 spacious guestrooms and suites have been designed to restore mind and body in a prime oceanfront setting. Resort offerings include an alluring Heavenly Spa by Westin™, beachfront Starbucks bistro, and the signature restaurant, Shula’s on the Beach, which also received a new look. The resort provides more than 32,000 square feet of flexible event space, including two ballrooms and a rooftop deck with more than 5,500 square feet of space and inspiring Atlantic Ocean views. The resort’s final phase of renovations will be completed by December 2009.

* The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa: The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa: A premiere beachfront destination with 1,058 guestrooms, The Westin Diplomat Resort offers ocean, Intracoastal or golf course views. The resort offers a luxurious getaway in Hollywood, Florida with world-class amenities including two beachfront pools with private cabanas, water sports, marinas, a 72-par golf course managed by Troon Golf, tennis courts and a full-service Spa at The Diplomat. Dining options include fine seafood and steakhouse cuisine at Hollywood Prime; Aizia offers playful traditional Asian cuisine; and BarSu brings together the freshest Sushi Bar and unique libations. The Café opens early for breakfast and lunch, while beachfront dining is a South Florida must at Splash Grill & Bar. At Rivals Waterfront Sports Grille, you may go for your favorite team but you’ll be sure to stay for the food. For meetings, the resort’s convention center boasts over 209,000-square feet of flexible space along with ample outdoor options.

Source: Hotel interactive