“We are thrilled to introduce The Naka Island, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket to people with a sense of adventure who want to escape from everything and experience something truly unique, private and memorable,” said Wayne Buckingham, Starwood Hotels & Resorts’ regional vice president of Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia.  “The Naka Island is a beautiful hidden treasure of luxury – located away from everything, but far from nothing.”

Nestled among stunning beaches, lush coconut groves, with never-ending views of the emerald-green Andaman Sea and idyllic landscapes of the Phuket coastline, The Naka Island is an exclusive boutique resort on Naka Yai Island, located just off Phuket.  Accessible only by private speedboat, The Naka Island is an intimate island paradise, with just 67 villas that are magnificently appointed with private plunge pools and tropical gardens, along with an incomparable spa facility, access to countless outdoor recreation opportunities, and uncompromising service.

Your Own Private Island
Naka Yai Island is located just 25 minutes from Phuket International Airport, including a five-minute ride by private speedboat.  The island is only 100 square kilometers in size – easily navigable on foot, or by bicycle, or by boat to the various beaches. Naka’s stunning natural environs are the recreational focal point of The Naka Island resort, with ample opportunities for hiking, biking, watersports, and snorkeling.  Or, if relaxation is the priority, The Naka Island offers the area’s largest five-star luxury spa and exclusive access to untouched and pristine sandy beaches.

The only resort on the island, The Naka Island, is a hidden Thai treasure of relaxation and privacy.  The exceptionally large 450 square meter villas are designed in classic Tropical Island style, with architecture and décor reflecting the indigenous culture and island surrounds. Nestled in the tropical landscape, and some with spectacular views over Phang Nga Bay and Phuket Island, the villas feature open-air bathrooms, private plunge pools, spacious outdoor areas and Sala pavilions.  All of the villas offer every modern convenience, like iPod docking systems, a comprehensive music library, and indoor sound systems.

Considered the “Pearl of the Andaman,” Phuket is home to some of Thailand’s most ornate temples, including the majestic Wat Chalong, along with a variety of idyllic beaches and quaint villages.  Phuket also offers a selection of world-class golf courses, high-end shopping and dining, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Your Own Private Guide
Each guest on The Naka Island will enjoy the services of the “Experience Guide,” a personal butler, concierge and guest relations officer rolled into one who will provide extraordinary service and will uniquely tailor the guest experience. The Experience Guide can book spa or dining reservations at the resort or on Phuket; arrange for fishing and diving trips; help plan events at your villa; or arrange excursions to Phuket and beyond.  Attentive, responsive and unobtrusive, the Experience Guide helps you get the most out of your stay.

Exceptional Cuisine
Aromatic, flavorful and healthy – Thai cuisine and other flavors of the region are celebrated in The Naka Island’s restaurants and lounge bars.  The resort features Tonsai, an all-day dining restaurant in a casual, beautiful seaside setting. For the ultimate al fresco dining, enjoy My Grill, an open beachside grill house, offers the freshest seafood and juiciest steaks with a southern Thai influence. Or, enjoy a glass of wine from the extensive wine cellar in the Z Bar along with spectacular sunset views.  If eating in is more your style, let The Naka Island’s experienced chefs prepare a spectacular feast for you at your villa or even a picnic on the beach.

A World-Class Spa
The largest luxury spa in the region, The Naka Island Spa focuses on the key principles of health, beauty and inner peace.  The therapists at the Naka Island Spa will design customized experiences for each guest. 

An Exceptional Location for Weddings & Events
The Naka Island’s exquisite location overlooking the Andaman Sea and across Phang Nga Bay offers an idyllic venue for intimate beachside weddings, or for unforgettable social and corporate functions. A 163-square-metre multi-function sala pavilion and multiple scenic outdoor locations provide a wide selection of unique and private settings.  The resort’s professional catering team will attend to every level of detail to ensure that each function is effortlessly unforgettable.

Source: eTravel Blackboard

These treatments were influenced by the kupuna — Hawaiian word for elders — who shared their healing traditions and knowledge of native plants and minerals. They were the island’s apothecaries, finding natural ways to heal the body.

The spa therapist helps you choose from more than 40 natural ingredients — 20 of which are from the Big Island — including Hawaiian sea salt, crushed macadamia nuts, limu (seaweed), lavender, sandalwood, organic Kona coffee and volcanic mud.

There are several different apothecary treatments at the spa. The mud and clay mosaic treatment ($230 per person, 80 minutes) combine volcanic mud and deep sea clay with essential oils to tone and stimulate the skin. The Hulali (sparkle) scrub ($230 per person, 80 minutes) uses a personalized blend of local ingredients to polish your body and prepare your skin for other treatments. The Wawali (smooth) wrap ($230 per person, 80 minutes) is another customized treatment where you are cocooned in warm linens as you enjoy a face and scalp massage.

But by far, the most luxurious of the apothecary treatments is the Linohau (perfection) scrub, wrap and massage ($400 per person, 120 minutes). This deluxe treatment includes the Hulali scrub and Wawali mask and wrap, but adds a full-body massage for total indulgence.

After your treatment, take some time to walk around the newly renovated open-air garden in the back of the spa. There are secluded spots everywhere to relax — next to a quiet steam, under a canopy of trees, fronting a small waterfall. It’s the perfect way to end a day of total rejuvenation.

Source: Haute Living

The five-star resort will offer a total of 81 villas, with guests having access to private pools, a beach restaurant, fitness centre and a wellness spa.

“We are excited to add Outrigger Koh Samui Resort and Spa to our growing collection of luxury properties throughout Asia,” said Darren Edmonstone, Outrigger’s senior vice-president of Asia Pacific.

“The resort is a perfect fit for us and we look forward to providing the very best in service and amenities to our guests and patrons.”

Outrigger has been managing beach resorts for over 50 years on the island of Koh Samui and has enjoyed success as more people take flights to Thailand to enjoy the region’s favourable climate and attractions.

The company’s new resort is the Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort & Villas. Guests can enjoy 1,000 acres of parks and lagoons as well as an 18-hole golf course and five world-class spas.

Source: Southall Travel

The “World’s Best Awards” are voted on by the readers of Travel + Leisure to honor the top hotels, destinations, airlines, cruises, spas and transportation companies in the world. In the annual survey, destination spas were rated independently by Travel + Leisure readers in five categories: accommodations/ambiance, treatments, service, food and value. The Top Ten Destination Spas will be featured in the October issue of Travel + Leisure magazine (on newsstands September 24) and on www.travelandleisure.com.

“We couldn’t be happier to see three of our properties listed in the World’s Best Awards by the well-traveled readers of Travel + Leisure,” said Jerry Cohen, Canyon Ranch Vice Chair and CEO.

“This recognition reflects our continued dedication to creating an environment that promotes health and the highest enjoyment of life for all of our guests.”

As a newcomer to the list, Canyon Ranch Hotel & Spa in Miami Beach, which opened in November 2008, has quickly established itself as a top hotel for the healthful minded traveler. Canyon Ranch Hotel & Spa in Miami Beach provides its guests with an integrative approach to health and wellness in order to create a life-enhancing transformation while also delivering a complete luxurious travel experience and world class spa.

“Canyon Ranch was founded 31 years ago with a mission to inspire people to make a commitment to healthy living,” said Cohen. “Whether our guests choose to experience Canyon Ranch in Tucson, Lenox or Miami Beach, they know they will receive the same personalized attention – it’s the Canyon Ranch way of life.”

Hide yourself away at Champneys Tring, their flagship resort and an world-class spa. Set in 170 acres of Chilterns parkland, it’s a truly charming and elegant retreat not to be missed. Recently it has seen a £14 million revamp, which without faltering its period style, brings the original English spa resort up-to-date. With a very sleek new spa and a super-tech gym you’ll also discover the new Thalassotherapy pool, plus the finest beauty treatments from leading premium beauty companies as well as Champneys own-name treatments. The elegant mansion retains period grace and style with its classical music room, charming drawing room and games room, while the newly renovated Garden Wing offers a more modern style with idyllic views across the sweeping countryside.

Champneys Henlow is a fine country Manor and a more traditional English retreat, set in 150 acres of parkland and steeped in history dating back to the 16th century. With an exquisitely cosy and comfortable atmosphere it’s an idyllic place to hide away and be totally spoilt. Luxurious accommodation, elegant surrounds, pampering treatments, water therapies, delicious cuisine and the latest fitness trends are all a part of Champneys spa life, focusing on inner health and outer beauty. From a simple massage to the latest high-tech anti-ageing facials, there’s plenty to pamper. The ultimate in comfort, it’s just right for a little restful slumber and relaxation!

Champneys Forest Mere in Hampshire is beautiful and the most sumptuous of all health farms. Set in peaceful Hampshire woodland, the mansion overlooks a magnificent, natural lake and enchanting grounds. A recent refurbishment has ensured Forest Mere to be an exclusive and glamorous retreat, blending its tranquil location with the latest spa facilities as well as an Alternative Health Clinic, where guests can experience healing therapies such as Reiki and Graphology. Alternatively, take time to bathe in the Thalassotherapy pool or rejuvenate with mud treatments in the twilight Rasul.

During balmy summer months, guests can indulge in a little barefoot spa heaven, enjoying the luxury of the outdoor heated pool, or simply put your feet up and take in the views from the Terrace Café overlooking the lake. It’s the perfect place to soothe away the stresses of modern day living, a place to hide your self away and reap the benefits of taking time out in complete comfort.

A purpose-built health farm, Champneys Springs is modern and fresh, with carp-filled waterways, a superb spa and a striking premiership-standard football pitch! Located in the middle of the rolling Leicestershire countryside it’s one of the most advanced health spas in the country, and designed with tranquility and relaxation in mind, it combines light airy spaces with a warm and friendly atmosphere.

The spa itself is a wonderful place to unwind and be pampered with some of the best beauty treatments around. It’s also a great place for those wishing to be more active, regularly attracting top sports professionals who take time out to take advantage of Champneys specialist sports and deep tissue massage treatments. Another attraction for such athletes is the premiership-standard football pitch, often used by top football teams including the England team! Springs is perfect for golf lovers, too, with the famous Belfry golf course close by and a few two par three golf holes at the resort itself – perfect for perfecting your putt!

Source: Cosmetic NewsPortal.com

The Mokara Salon & Spa at the Omni Mandalay Hotel at Las Colinas in the Dallas area ranked number eight on the magazine’s list of the top hotel spas in North America. The luxury spa, which opened in 2007, features customizable treatments utilizing a unique assortment of product lines, such as Skin Ceuticals, June Jacobs and Peter Thomas Roth. Additionally, Mokara offers signature services indigenous to the region, embracing the spirit and flavor of Texas with the Sweet Tea Body Gloss, Cactus Pear Moisture Wrap, Pecan & Brown Sugar Manicure and Ruby Red Reviver Pedicure.

The Watermark Spa at the Watermark Hotel & Spa, located on San Antonio’s historic River Walk, ranked number 17 on the magazine’s list of the top hotel spas in North America. As the only world-class spa in the heart of downtown San Antonio, the Watermark Spa is a 17,000 square foot oasis which redefines spa luxury with its exquisite treatments, experienced therapists and elegant, sophisticated decor. In January 2010, the hotel and spa were also included in Conde Nast Traveler’s prestigious Gold List of the World’s Best Places to Stay.

“We are very proud of Omni’s signature spas in Dallas and San Antonio being named on Conde Nast Traveler’s Top Spas List,” said Tom Santora, chief marketing officer of Omni Hotels & Resorts. “It is rewarding to see that today’s travelers appreciate our focus on unique and memorable spa experiences.”

The twentieth annual Conde Nast Traveler 2010 Top Spas list honors the best hotel, resort and cruise ship spas in North America, Hawaii, Central America and the Caribbean.

The new exclusive all-suites resort will be joined next month by the Secrets St. James Montego Bay. To-date, the two-resort $180 million project has infused $100 million into the local Jamaican economy and created 1,500 jobs during construction with an additional 950 jobs created for resort operations by the end of 2010. Within the first year, the two properties are projected to receive over 52,000 guests.

“AMResorts’ consistent growth is directly linked to our continued search for opportunities in the travel market,” said Alex Zozaya, president and CEO of AMResorts. “Not only has Jamaica consistently remained strong during these tough economic times, but its natural beauty, premium tourism offerings and consistent appeal made it a destination of choice for Secrets Resorts & Spas.”

The design of the Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay is reflective of the cultural roots and tropical beauty of Jamaica taking inspiration from the island surroundings with its warm neutral tones and unique indigenous art. Guests of Secrets Wild Orchid can enjoy:

- Eight international gourmet á la carte dining options
- Seven chic bars and lounges including swim-up
- Large free-form swimming pools and beachfront Jacuzzi
- 15,000 square foot world-class spa featuring indoor and outdoor spa facilities and hydrotherapy circuit
- The Promenade, a main plaza shared by the two resorts offering a host of exciting activities, boutiques, and entertainment and dining options
- Seawind Beach Club complete with couples cabanas, palapas and a gourmet restaurant
- On-site sports including tennis, beach volleyball, basketball, soccer and non-motorized water sports, and daily yoga, aerobic, and introductory SCUBA classes
- Over 16,000 square-feet of meeting space for business conventions and weddings

Source: Breaking Travel News

The Resort and related infrastructure represent an investment exceeding $200 million, creating an economic bright spot in the region. Northern Quest Resort & Casino is located minutes from downtown Spokane and Spokane International Airport.

“This is a proud moment for the Kalispel Tribe,” said Chairman of the Kalispel Tribe, Glen Nenema. “We are investing in our people and our communities. I am proud of what we are building today for future generations.”

The Resort is one of only a few properties in North America to install a total IP-based, high-definition solution and video-on-demand services that allow digital check-in and customized guest information delivered to in-room televisions. Guests can access a technology concierge and have dedicated bandwidth from every room. The Resort includes over 22,000 square feet of meeting room space.

Guests will experience tribal influence throughout the property. At Masselow’s Restaurant, the new fine dining restaurant, guests will be greeted in Salish, the native language of the Kalispel Tribe. In the hotel’s Heritage Hallway, artifacts and images displayed represent the Tribe’s past, present and future.

Current Spa & Salon offers guests a full menu of services, a salon, a men’s barber shop and a waterfall infused whirlpool in the relaxation room. The duet treatment room for couples or small groups features an oversized soaking tub and fireplace. The spa’s one-of-a-kind swimming pool features natural stone and a lighted river ceiling inspired by the Kalispels, the people of the river.

The hotel’s opening is creating 325 new jobs, bringing Northern Quest Resort & Casino’s employment to approximately 1,675. The Resort spends over $800,000 monthly on local goods and services. With a total of over 2,000 jobs across its government and business enterprises, the Kalispel Tribe is one of the top employers in Spokane County.

The Kalispel Tribe of Indians has over 400 members. The Tribe’s headquarters is located in Usk, WA on the Pend Oreille River. The Kalispel Tribe has donated over $5 Million to multiple charities and non-profits.

Watermark has taken home a Four Star award for the last six years. Watermark is the only hotel in San Antonio to receive this recognition from the publication and is only one of seven in the state to hold this distinction as well.

The Forbes Travel Guide is formerly known as the Mobil Travel Guide.

“We are honored to be recognized by Forbes with another Four Star rating this year and are proud to be one of the top hotels and spas in the Lone Star State,” says General Manager Rusty Wallace. “We’ve been very fortunate to see a steady increase in our bookings, and with the exciting expansion of the River Walk and our seasonal packages, we look forward to a promising 2010.”

The Watermark earned high ratings for its overall cleanliness, condition and location. The hotel and spa had to also meet or exceed service standards in a service evaluation conducted by unannounced, undercover inspectors from the magazine.

The Watermark is owned by Irving, Texas-based Omni Hotels Corp.

Soruce: San Antonio Business Journal

“We are delighted to officially unveil Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa. The emirate of Ras Al Khaimah is a key emerging destination, and one where we have a strong presence with our current portfolio and signed pipeline. We are the first globally branded hotel chain to have entered Ras Al Khaimah,” said Nassetta who is on a tour of the Middle East.

Overlooking the Arabian Sea and situated in the shadow of the spectacular Hajar mountains, the resort features 324 guest rooms and 151 luxurious villas designed in classic Arabesque style. Coloured by earthy hues and decorated with an array of traditional lanterns, the resort is an authentic Arabian retreat in a new international holiday destination.

“Ras Al Khaimah, with its stunning coastline and serene atmosphere is the perfect antidote to the energetic pace of the other UAE’s emirates. We are gradually developing into an international business hub, whilst still preserving our unique culture and the magnificent landscape. With its typical Arabian charm, Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa will appeal to local residents and international visitors who are drawn to the emirate,”

said H.H. Sheikh Faisal bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of RAK Finance Department and RAK Free Trade Zone.

Each guest room and villa is centred on an Arabian theme with a contemporary edge. The general décor balances aesthetics and functionality, with clean lines and styles accessorised by local artefacts such as lanterns, mirrors and traditional treasure chests. All with waterfront views, the guest rooms’ patios and balconies provide a spectacular vantage point to enjoy Ras Al Khaimah’s coastline.

The resort also features four free-form temperature controlled pools including one with salt water, in addition to the 1.5 kilometre stretch of pristine white beach. Stretching to the edge of the Arabian Gulf, the long and winding pool deck, the largest in the UAE, serves as a focal point for the hotel’s guests and activities.

A wide array of dining choices dot the resort landscape. Al Fanar Lighthouse and Rooftop Bar offers light refreshments to enjoy a dazzling sunset, while Piacere Del Gusto serves classic Italian fare indoors and in an open-air setting. Passage to Asia adds an Indian, Thai and Chinese flavour to the resort’s gastronomic offering, and the cosy Pool Bar and Dhow Beach Bar cater to the poolside and beach loungers.

The resort also houses a world-class spa and Turkish Hammam, with an extensive array of treatments, set to satisfy the demands of the most discriminating spa enthusiasts. Children are not forgotten with a dedicated Kids Club featuring an indoor and outdoor playground.

The resort can also assist guests by organising a range of activities for guests to enjoy including traditional dhow boat trips to the Mussandam Fjords, desert or mountain jeep safaris, quad- biking and horse riding. For the culturally inclined, the resort is in close proximity to the Old Town and National Archaeological Museum.

Jean-Paul Herzog, President, Hilton Worldwide, Middle East & Africa, said:

“Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa brings a touch of quintessential Arabia to the emirate, and truly reflects our commitment to the development of the emirate as an international destination. The resort is a sanctuary promising the calm of its natural surroundings, the quality and service of a Hilton Worldwide property, along with a taste of local culture.”

Hilton Worldwide also manages the 227-room Hilton Ras Al Khaimah hotel by the creek, and has two more properties under development in the emirate; the 400-room Hilton Mina Al Arab Resort, and the 112-room Doubletree Suites by Hilton Ras Al Khaimah.