SHOMPOLE- Great Rift Valley, Kenya
There are a few ways to tackle Kenya and we recommend integrating all of them for the ideal experience. Traditional Tribal via a visit with the Maasai, Rustic Rural in the form of an amazing safari expedition, and then Contemporary Conceptual (yes indeed) and the finest example of this unique new wave of Kenyan-chic is known as Shompole.

One of the most acclaimed lodges in Kenya, this unusually unique property sits discreetly in a private conservancy, and has been designed to harness the colors, textures and emotions of its natural surroundings. An understated yet overwhelmingly beautiful blend of white quartz, polished wood, pale thatch, smooth stone and a touch of African bush feel peacefully surround guests who wish to let the land lead them while on such a mystifying holiday.

Here, breakfast is most beautifully enjoyed on the plains or under the shade of a fig tree, dinner is taken by candlelight under the stars, and your most challenging choices each day revolve around whether to embark on a heart-stopping game drive, lazily drift down the river in a canoe, or indulge in a holistic “African Body Works” day of wellness designed to unravel the soul, de-stress, and enhance the full richness of life. Can you Kenya? Yeah, we think you can. www.shompole.com

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary upgrade to next room category upon check-in, subject to availability. Should upgrade not be available, you’ll receive a complimentary massage- great deal either way! Click HERE For more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

PALAZZO MAGNANO FERONI- Florence, Italy

Pack your cloak, polish your crown, shine your scepter and get ready to walk proud, with your shoulders held back, master of all you survey. Or, skip these steps and check directly into Palazzo Magnani Feroni if you’re just dying to know what it must have felt like to live like true European nobility. This regal hideaway has served as a luxurious retreat for members of the aristocracy since the 1500’s, and now it awaits your arrival as well- ready to treat you in the same spectacular noble fashion.

Attention to details here- marvelous. Attention to the most minute details- meticulous. Service that makes you feel as though you're a member of elite high society- ridiculous (in an amazing way of course). Breakfast the Palazzo manner means dining in an extravagant hall graced by an incredibly ornate Murano crystal chandelier, evening cocktails here are meant to be sipped in romantically illuminated galleries once home to the most elegant of parties thrown in spectacular, indulgent fashion by the Feroni marquises.

We recommend the Feroni Deluxe Suite for the best possible experience. Featuring it's own en-suite laptop connected to wi-fi and printer, lavish marble bathrooms with fab Bulgari amenities and perhaps the best possible amenity we've ever seen- a Vibro Power machine which is one of the hottest pieces of fitness equipment around designed for slimming, massage and exercise all in one. No visit to the Palazzo Magnani Feroni is complete without enjoying a dinner or nightcap on their unique panoramic terrace, one of the most special yet hidden gems in all of Florence providing amazing views of the entire city. Trust us, it's much better to enjoy Florence as a noble, even if it's only for a few days. http://www.palazzomagnanoferoni.com/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 20% on a 3 night stay or longer in a Palace Suite, plus enjoy a complimentary cocktail at the Palace Bar and continental breakfast served in the Murano Hall. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

EL VINTEN – Baradero, Argentina
A wise man once said “If you can spend a perfectly useless afternoon in a perfectly useless manner, you have learned how to live.” We agree, and if you do too, we suggest spending a few of those afternoons at El Vinten. This is a blissful hideaway just 90 miles outside of Buenos Aires, making it the perfect complement to a few days spent in the bustling city.

The drive is easy, and it’s beautiful, and once you arrive at this gorgeous exclusive retreat set high upon a cliff, you just somehow feel that you’re actually thousands of miles from just about anywhere. Two impossibly cozy suites and one separate guest house warmly await your arrival, all adorned with massive windows and lovely verandahs….all the better to be able to enjoy the fascinating river and wild island-filled panorama.

Here, the pace of life is lento….. to indulge in the full El Vinten lifestyle, one must settle down. Turn off the laptop and turn on the iPod as you laze in the shade under the gorgeous trees that line the pool area, trade the Blackberry for the grapes you’ll learn about that help make the fantastic local wines, and forget about the diet. The deliciously fresh vegetables, gorgeously grilled meat & fish and delightful dulces are meant to be enjoyed in spades here. And, if you’re itching to be a bit active, you’ve got boating, waterskiing, horseback riding, and they’ll even organize a friendly polo match with local neighbors if you so desire. The perfect way to complete your Argentina jaunt. www.elvinten.com.ar

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 10%, plus receive a second bottle of their signature welcome champagne in your room upon arrival! Valid for travel 01 Oct – 01 Dec 2010. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

VILLAS VALRICHE- Mauritius
A discreet retreat offering a world of space, peace and privacy…if that’s on your agenda then Mauritius should be as well. A tiny, unspoilt island 1500 miles due east off the African coast, measuring just under 800 sq. miles in size but packing an enormous proposition of paradise. Why are people mad about Mauritius? Perhaps it’s the island’s magnetic mystique, its 100 miles of glimmering beaches, gentle welcoming people, sense of security, enchanting blend of French, English, Creole and Indian culture, energetic outdoor pursuits, natural wonders from waterfalls to wildlife, or just the plain fact that it literally has near-perfect sunny weather all year round. Plus, the shopping is legendary. What better to complete the circle than to acquire your own private villa, if only for a few days and we love Villas Valriche.

This is a complex of 22 absolutely luxurious villas ranging from 2-4 bedrooms, all with private verandas, ultra high-tech technology, concierge service, private infinity pool, uninterrupted ocean views and the most elegant interior design.

What we find quite intriguing here is their take on Energy Cuisine…inspired by the concept of their Seven Colours Spa, they’ve carefully created a vibrant menu with selections symbolizing the 7 Chakras, which enable you to continue your treatment far after it ends with an innovative culinary experience for your senses. And, if you don’t wish to leave your villa (and seriously, why would you considering how off-the-hook they are), you’ve got access to a private chef who will prepare meals any way you wish, a butler at your command who can deliver anything you like, and in-villa spa treatments on demand. And, if you feel like exploring, not to worry- 9 restaurants, an 18-hole golf course, 2 spas, a fitness center and a nature reserve should keep you pretty busy. They’ve even got a mountaintop lodge retreat outfitted with powerful telescopes that allow guests to learn about the stars and constellations at night.

A villa stay here means serenity, privacy, seclusion and privilege, which is really what Mauritius is all about so consider this option when considering an Indian Ocean getaway. The extra breathing room of a private complete home is priceless on this slice of paradise…

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 15% on stays 01 Sep – 31 Dec 2010, offer must be booked by 31 Aug. Contact http://www.villasvalricheexperience.com/ for more info and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

LEDGOWAN LODGE- The Highlands, Scotland
Scotland has this thing about it, a quirky, fascinating, interesting allure that draws travellers in by playing a bit on their senses of both humor and wonder. If you believe in the Loch Ness Monster (like us, we wholeheartedly admit we’ve searched), if there’s just something about that lovely accent, if you’ve ever wondered what haggis tastes like, and if you’re an old-school Mike Myers fan, then surely you’ve had this hankering to visit for a while.

To experience the most visually stunning areas of Scotland is to visit the highlands...or in this case, travel about an hour northwest of Inverness until you reach the charming little village of Achnasheen and you’ll encounter what a proper highland country house is meant to be at the
Ledgowan Lodge Hotel. Standing over a century old and positively bursting with charm and character, this grand former hunting lodge still holds on to many original features like cozy drawing rooms adorned with gold and rich wood panelling, chandlers dripping with glinting crystal, real log fires, candelabras, and the traditional (and unrivalled) ambiance which makes for an unforgettable experience.

What’s the haps in Achnasheen? Spectacular scenery, majestic mountains, plenty of highlands-style wild life, great golf, gorgeous gardens, and lochs...lots and lots of lochs. Hmm...can you say whole-new-sea-creature-search? Don’t miss this fabulous authentic slice of Scottish highland life. http://www.ledgowanlodge.co.uk/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 15% when booking Ledgowan Lodge Hotel, daily breakfast included. And the savings don’t stop there, book any property on http://www.scotland-hotels.com/ and save 10%! Click HERE for more info and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

CHATEAU DE BAGNOLS- Beaujolais, France
Breathtaking…beautiful…blissful….Beaujolais….did we get your attention yet? In keeping with this week’s celebration of all things French, how could we not talk about one of the most stunning hotel treasures in France. Château de Bagnols is a meticulously-restored 13th Century luxury chateau, set on a gentle hill dominating this gorgeous wine valley, enveloped in aromatic emerald gardens accented with fluorescent hues. And, it’s a member of Relais & Chateaux family, boasting a list of accolades and awards a vineyard long.

Caution- the experience here is truly indulgent. Seductive cuisine is prepared by a Michelin-starred chef and eaten under the shade of centuries-old fruit trees, the resident Sommelier remains discreetly available, ready to showcase his impressive selection, the opulent suites, all individually named and inspired by each influencer’s fashion and style while taking care to integrate ultra-modern technology for each honored guest’s convenience. Ahh…can you taste your first sip of this divine wine-inspired life already? http://www.chateaudebagnols.fr/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Book the “Exceptional Summer Offer” including daily buffet breakfast and welcome amenities upon arrival, and receive a visit to Saint Vérand Winery for 2 plus a one-category room upgrade* Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!
*subject to availability at time of check-in. Valid for travel through 31 Aug 2010

VERSAILLES DELIVERY-For all things French
It’s Bastille Day, and you know what that means…a great excuse to go out and by something French! If a last-minute hop to Paris doesn’t fit into the schedule, how about the next best thing- a splurge on some sumptuous items that will make you feel like you’ve slipped away on your own mini-gastronomic trip to France.

Meet Versailles Delivery, a delightful, delicious collection designed by French gourmet creator Pierre Lion who has assembled the finest and most luxurious products that celebrate France and it’s epicurean cuisine. We’re talking Fauchon, Dartagnan, Dom Perignon, not to mention a most gorgeous tribute to culinary perfection in the form of homemade baguettes, sandwiches, pastries, macarons all waiting to be discovered…and devoured. Hey, you’ve got an excuse as any to indulge and enjoy today so take advantage of it (and our fantastic deal). www.versaillesdelivery.com

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 20% on any online order, with extra time to enjoy the savings all the way up to 31 July! Simply mention code EXPLORATE when ordering and voila…. Eat well, live well, and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

ANJET- On-demand private jet charters
So, yesterday we told you all about how to eliminate the luggage-stress factor when traveling. Today, we’ve got the ultimate solution for airport aggravation in general….how about bypassing all of those lines, crowds, delays and those ridiculously selfish armrest-hogging seatmates? Sound good? Then we’d like you to consider our friends at ANJET. They are THE best on-demand private jet charter company around, with competitive rates that you won’t believe are possible for this type of travel.

Their iron-clad relationships with the top operators in the business ensure that you always have access to superior service, top-of-the-line aircraft, and on-time departures. You can fly when you want, where you want- no minimum stays required, no multi-leg restrictions, it’s YOUR way. You can even choose to take advantage of their one-way deals they feature each Wednesday which are pretty tremendous, we must say.

Seriously, you are a travel rock star already, shouldn’t you be traveling like one?

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save up to $500 off of any ground transportation worldwide when booking any private jet trips with ANJET*. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!
*minimum spend required, contact us for details

LUGGAGE CONCIERGE- Ship bags ahead of time

12:14 PM, last Wednesday. Landed at an airport that shall remain nameless. At baggage claim by 12:23. Electronic screen changes at 12:44 indicating our bags are only just being taken off the plane. 12:56, still no belt movement. 1:16, stress level elevates, late for a meeting. 1:29, bags start to come out. We’re sure about 90% of you can relate to this, and what’s worse is this seems to be becoming the standard. Look, we admit it, we’re really not the check-your-bags type. So, having to adjust to all of these new rules has been…well…a tad aggravating to say the least. If you haven’t yet refined your packing style down to the bare minimum, you need to meet Luggage Concierge- your knight in shining, shipping armor.

They eliminate all the stress- no having to lug your bags, no dealing with check-in lines, no standing around in an endless cloud of wait at baggage claim and oh yes, no more ridiculous SmartCart fees either. Rather, land, zip to where you need to be and find your luggage waiting there for you already.

How does it work? So easy-
-Simply log on, enter your home and destination address
-Enter the sizes/shapes of your bags
-You’ll then receive a Welcome package via mail within 2 business days, including prepaid shipping labels
-Select your pickup date, travel dates, address where your bags should be returned to and voila…done

They cover the entire US and over 200 locations worldwide, so chances are they can help you with almost any itinerary query you can present to them. Try it, you’ll like it.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 20% on your next LuggageConcierge shipping order! Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

GUIDE GECKO LAUNCHES SINGAPORE SITE

Jaunting somewhere far and don’t have the faintest idea of what you’re going to do there, or what you’re even supposed to do there? Don’t you just feel so much better when you connect with an expert, someone who’s walked the walk, and can talk the talk on all the lowdown and innerworkings of a global city? Enter GuideGecko, the perfect resource for that granular destination-specific info you’re seeking. Here, you can buy a popular published guide, read a post by a destination expert, or even post your own comments and reviews on just about any and every special interest travel topic there is.

We’re so excited to give you a secret preview of their new Singapore guide site! Only a handful of folks have seen it so far…this comprehensive mélange of travel, food and lifestyle items featuring 880+ insider tips. We’re talking personal reviews, the “Good & Bad”, ie- the skinny- down to whether the food is passable at a particular restaurant, to how clean the toilet is in a public restroom. Hey, when it comes to travel, there is never such a thing as TMI. Preview now at http://www.guidegecko.com/singapore/travel-guide/p,127172 and take advantage of these fun free offers!

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Subscribe now and receive a chance to win a free Lonely Planet guidebook*, or if you’re headed to Singapore anytime soon, you can rather opt for a free personal guided walking tour of Singapore led by one of their resident writers! Just send an email to info@guidegecko.com to register, and be sure to mention the keyword “explorateur” in your note.

HEADS UP!- Sign up now and you could win 2 free tickets to the Singapore Flyer, the world’s largest Ferris Wheel. Visit www.GuideGecko.com/hot for info

*Choice of any Lonely Planet guide up to US $30, free shipping to US and UK residents only

OAKWOOD ASIA PACIFIC

Trust- it’s paramount in life, and equally as crucial along the path of an avid traveller...who must trust themselves first, their sense of adventure, their instincts, and of course they must be able to trust that what’s waiting for them in their next destination is what they expect it to be. It’s precisely what Oakwood Asia Pacific centers its beliefs upon, and rather than simply just delivering on the promise of a private apartment awaiting a weary traveller’s arrival, they prefer to exceed one’s trusted expectations- resulting in lavish, secure, thoughtfully appointed spaces and outstanding commitments to personal service that feel like home. But better.

Often times, stays in Asia tend to be longer-term, there’s so much to explore, and what’s better than a secure, stylish apartment with the spacious comfort of home versus a tight hotel room? They offer locations in 11 cities across 7 countries in Asia / Pacific, and three brands that fit perfectly depending on each traveler’s personality and preference. Doesn’t that sound inviting?
Don’t just take our word for it, experience Oakwood style personally in grand fashion!

They’ve got a fabulous opportunity for you to win a stay in their 50th Anniversary Celebration contest where they’re giving away “50 Nights in 50 Months”. And, all you need to do is simply click HERE and send out one of the virtual e-postcards you see on the site. Send it to your friends with a note describing what TRUST means to you… and you could win a stay at any of the serviced apartments within the Oakwood Asia portfolio. Good luck and pass it along…this is a secret that’s too good to keep to yourself.

NB- Heading to Bangkok? Check out their especially fabulous deals across the city and EXPLORATEUR READERS EXCLUSIVELY receive free wi-fi access. Visit http://www.oakwoodasia.com/ for details and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

ECOTULUM RESORTS & SPA- Riviera Maya, Mexico
When it comes down to it, the whole idea of a vacation is a departure from your daily life- a twist in the old schedule, trying something completely different. If you’re like some members of our team whose idea of roughing it is limited to cotton sheets vs Frette linens (we won’t name names!), the concept of stepping back in time when regular luxuries are not so available on-demand can be a little strange or stressful, yes. However, it’s the strange factor that makes it all the more appealing- EcoTulum’s hotels invite guests to dive right in to their vision and philosophy, and their Spartan settings actually deliver a peaceful spirituality of another time and place.

The cabanas at their 3 properties are built upon a concept of harmony and luxury…the luxury of peace in a rustic setting somewhere far, far away from the glitz and thumping beats of Cancun. The villas are constructed with local hardwoods, many of which feature private decks perfect for listening to nothing more than the birds, the calm surf and the soft lull of the music of a local guitarist. Zahra and Azulik are tranquility defined, barefoot beachfront bliss with supreme privacy, and limited electricity in the evening if you can’t quite go all-the-way on the rustic angle.

However, if you want to be super adventurous and live like those that inhabited these lands so many years ago, try Cabanas Copal, nestled in the jungle- where candlelight and the sun are preferred methods of energy and relax- while there is water, it flows slowly like the rhythm of life here and one actually can re-learn here how to conserve it which in itself is a beautiful thing. www.eco-tulum.com

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Stay 3 nights, pay for only 2 plus enjoy complimentary continental breakfast daily! Click HERE for more info and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!
*valid for travel through 30 Nov 2010

WIN A STAY AT THE BENTWOOD INN, JACKSON HOLE!

We admit it, we are huge fans of this stunning luxury B&B and we want everyone to know about it. In celebration of the 4th of July, we're celebrating all things domestic - and here's your chance to experience this architectural wonder just a stone's throw from the Snake River & the Grand Teton National Park. It's the perfect, quintessential western experience, it's certainly one of our favorites, and when you see it you'll understand why. Intrigued? Good! Here you go...

The lucky winner receives a pretty sweet Bentwood Inn Gift Certificate including:

* 2 Nights in a deluxe room with king bed and personal fireplace
* Chef prepared breakfast each morning
* Evening wine & cheese
* Bentwood Bistro 4-course served dinner for two, including wine
* Full concierge service for activity and dining reservations throughout Jackson Hole.

Just click HERE to enter- good luck and we'll see you in Wyoming!

http://www.bentwoodinn.com/

*Gift Certificate can be used from October 1, 2010 to May 31, 2011 excluding major holidays and based on availability. Once issued to the lucky winner, the gift certificate cannot be sold or transferred and has no cash value.

THE BREAKERS - Palm Beach, FL
It’s iconic, it’s legendary, it offers the relaxed sophistication of the French Riviera, the seaside magnetism of the Italian coast and the natural grace of Palm Beach, it’s fabulously grand, timeless….and it’s close. The Breakers Palm Beach is a delight of a resort- exclusive yet unpretentious with a WOW factor that amazes even the most discerning travelers. For over a century, The Breakers has continued to deliver a classic resort experience that stands virtually unreplicated to date, and it just keeps getting better year after year thanks to an investment of $250 million over the past decade, and a spectacular annual commitment to the tune of $20 million for continual enhancements.

One of those enhancements in particular that’s caught our eye is the private, Mediterranean-style Beach Club, an artfully designed oceanfront experience resplendent with natural assets and premium amenities, including five premium oceanfront pools, day-rental bungalows & cabanas, dining & boat charters, and lush tropical landscaping. Each Old Florida cottage-style bungalow is an exclusive oceanfront oasis, and features full bathroom with open-sky shower, day sofa, private patio, flat-screen TV, a refrigerator that can be stocked in advance to your liking, Wi-Fi, phones, a personal amenities package, as well as a personal concierge to attend to your every request.

Add a 20,000 sq ft luxury spa with unlimited tennis & fitness classes, a range of distinct dining options (nine restaurants and lounges), water sports, two championship golf courses and golf academy, tennis, great shopping all on site, and sensational Spendless Savings summer promotional rates, and our Explorateur Exclusive offer and we think you’ve found that summer getaway you’ve been looking for. http://www.thebreakers.com/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary use of a Beach Bungalow for one day – a value of up to $350! Combinable with Spendless Savings summer promotional offers which makes for a tremendous deal. Please request program code OCEAN, valid for travel through 20 Nov 2010. Please contact 1-888-BREAKERS (273-2537) to book your stay.
*Blackout dates apply- 02-05 Jul, 03-06 Sep. Overnight stay required

POUSADA ESTRELA D’AGUA - Trancoso, Bahia, Brazil
When you open your eyes just a little wider and listen just a bit more intently, it’s possible to discover a whole new side of the world. And perhaps there’s no more perfect place to do this than Brazil, a place that sometimes feels like ten countries rolled into one. So, open your eyes a little wider when planning to head south, and take time to discover the charming village of Trancoso, and the warmth of Pousada Estrela d’Agua.

Beach bungalow brilliance is at its best here at thus intimate hotel which carefully embraces the region’s natural beauty and shows eternal respect to the environment. It’s all about sophistication with a rustic slant here…where hammocks are the preferred method of seating as opposed to lounge chairs, where brilliant vibrant starkly opposing colors somehow blend seamlessly, dinner is served al-fresco by candlelight and nightlife consists of listening to the sounds of the forest while sipping a local cocktail on the deck bar. Oh, and their Relais & Châteaux affiliation is just another validation of the unique vibe and superior service.

Trancoso is tremendously famous for it’s semi-deserted, pure white sand beaches blessed with unique natural swimming pools formed by reefs at low tide, it’s center known as the Quadrado is home to charming colorful houses, inherently warm and welcoming people, and charming old little white church overseeing the Atlantic.

We know nobody enjoys having to deal with queries and decisions while on vacation, but we think you can handle the stress. So, what’s it going to be? Corona or Caipirinha....?

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary greens fees at Terra Vista Golf Course, one of the best in Latin America, when staying at Pousada Estrela D’Agua. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!