HAPPY FOODIE FRIDAY-

We know some of you are buried under mass quantities of snow, and when you’re stuck inside it’s natural to want to eat mass quantities of everything in sight. Here’s something to keep yourself busy if you’re stuck inside- how about thinking of which great culinary escapade to embark on in 2010? And relax, we know some of these are difficult to get into, but not with Gen on your side-our in house concierge Genuine Access has ways and means so never fear, and be sure to click HERE to see how we can help with reservations.

Let’s start with the UK, which has no shortage of restaurants known and envied the world over. Consider something like like The Fat Duck, Bray- Heston Blumenthal’s infamous restaurant known as the ultimate culinary experience- difficult to get in but that’s half the fun. Try pairing it with a proper cottage holiday at nearby Woodrows Cottage, Aldworth, Berkshire- a cozy, comfortable place to retreat to after indulging in a meal here. There’s also Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons, Raymond Blanc’s restaurant and cookery school priding itself on the freshness and purity of its ingredients grown right in their two-acre kitchen. Pair it with a stay at Alfie’s Barn, Oxfordshire, an 18-th century converted house with gorgeous countryside views. English Country Cottages offers these properties plus hundreds more- http://www.english-country-cottages.co.uk/

The French Laundry, arguably California's most emotional and extraordinary culinary experience promises to take you to places you've never been before, and that it does. It's two unique 9-course tasting menus featured per day, in the heart of Napa Valley's most picturesque spot. There's no shortage of gorgeous intimate lodges in the area, we'll find the one that's most perfect for you.

And then, there’s El Bulli, perhaps the holiest of holy grails in the restauarant world in remote Roses, Spain. Word on the street says they’re fully committed for 2010 but inquire with us anyway, 2011 isn’t THAT far off. Do it up right and pair this with a private villa stay at nearby Casa Cap-Ras by the sea.

Or, consider packaging the whole experience together and embarking on a fully encompassing, otherworldly culinary adventure with Epicurean Experiences, featuring signature tours through Spain that are a pure dream for any foodie. Try their Epicurean Experiences in Madrid package, including walking tours, tapas tours, private wine tours, cooking classes, luxury boutique hotel accommodations and more. Or, venture out a bit further into the country and take on the Epicurean Roads jaunt including private winery tours and tastings, cooking demo with Michelin chef, guided walks through vibrant markets, and all of the trimmings a curious culinary fiend seeks. http://www.epicureanways.com/ They’ll even send you a delicious Spanish food gift straight to your home before you depart to launch your adventure in taste, for Explorateur readers exclusively.

Click HERE for more information on any of these fabulous foodie finds!

51 BUCKINGHAM GATE, TAJ SUITES & RESIDENCES- London
It’s the ultimate in London luxury, a unique five-star townhouse hotel in the heart of gorgeous Westminster and we think you need to be there. It’s a member of the Taj portfolio, so naturally decadence abounds with stunning suites, an indulgent spa, Michelin-starred restaurant, and even a private courtyard space completing the feel of being in your own private grand residence, with personal butlers at your beckon call. We’re talking stylish contemporary décor, state of the art technology en-suite, with service and location so fabulous you’ll feel like royalty. As if that wasn’t enough, we’ve got two remarkable offers to share with you with unique twists and treats- enjoy!

HARRODS at 51- For shoppers
Experience the ultimate luxury shopping & sleeping experience with this extraordinary package including:

-Stylish suite accommodations at 51 including daily breakfast for 1 night
-Chauffeur-driven Jaguar to and from Harrods
-£100 off all purchases at Harrods, membership to Harrods Rewards and copy of Harrods magazine
-Invitation to “By Appointment- Harrods personal shopping service
-10% off purchases in Harrods food hall plus complimentary evening cocktail/canapés reception in the Library at 51
-Full use of spa and gym facilities on property

HAMLEYS at 51- For families
Enjoy the benefits of 51’s exclusive partnership with the world’s finest toy store, including:

-Stylish suite accommodations at 51 including daily breakfast for 1 night for 2 adults and 2 children up to age 12 including daily breakfast
-Hamley’s welcome hamper
-Personal shopping experience in Hamleys
-Cooking or baking lesson with Chef en-suite including personalized chef’s jacket for each participating child
-Babysitter for 4 hours
- Complimentary evening cocktail/canapés reception in the Library at 51
-Full use of spa and gym facilities on property http://www.51-buckinghamgate.com/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Book either of these packages and receive a beautiful bouquet of welcome flowers and fresh fruit basket platter en-suite upon arrival. Click HERE for more information or to book, and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

*valid for travel through 31 Dec 2010

LA TORRETTA BIANCA BED & BREAKFAST- San Benedetto, Italy

When innkeepers Romina Abbadini andThomas Christel opened La Torretta Bianca Bed & Breakfast just as a place for their friends & family to stay when visiting them in the Marche Region of Italy (talk about generous), they couldn’t yet have known what a stellar reputation this “little white tower” was to acquire just a short time after. This 18th Century hillside farmhouse-turned-country villa is simple, special, and offers comfortable, traditional Italian homestyle feel, inspired by the owner’s passionate feelings about family, the quality of the Italian lifestyle, and eagerness to show visitors this stunning side of Italy. And you really do feel like family here.

There are 5 guest rooms to choose from, including a stunning Vista Mare room on the 3rd floor with gorgeous views of the sea, and a larger apartment if that’s more your style. But the beauty really lies in the natural setting, terraces of gardens with all kinds of fruit and nut trees, homemade breakfasts made with homegrown figs, apples, plums, fresh baked rolls topped off with a cappuccino. OK- we’re officially hungry now.

It’s a different, more authentic Italian experience if tours are not your thing, and a perfect base when seeking to experience the essence of the countryside. Why? because it’s just a short drive to the mountains for hiking and castle exploration, minutes away from the beaches on the Adriatic Sea, steps from the delight of the open-air markets of downtown San Benedetto, and in the center of some of Italy’s best wining and dining. Romina and Thomas’s doors are always open for your arrival. Enjoy. http://www.bebtorre.com/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 10% on stays at La Torretta Bianca through the remainder of 2010*. Please click HERE for more information or to book and be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

*not valid for travel July and August 2010

DISCOVER NEPAL with Kailash Himalaya Treks

It’s a country that spells heart-stopping adventure mixed with wide-eyed wonder, a land where the quests for folkloric Yetis and impossibly high peaks dominate, and precisely the solution for any daring traveler that seeks something more than just a getaway. Nepal’s magnetism pulls fiercely on the adventurists heart and soul, with the promise of an exploration beyond compare. If you’re not quite ready to tackle Everest yet (or even Base Camp for that matter), consider a discovery tour of this fascinating land. Funny enough, we’ve got just the thing.

Kailash Himalaya Treks have been designing the ideal Nepal itineraries for over 26 years, carefully vetting only the most qualified guides, and thoughtfully planning the most authentic experiences through Nepal, Bhutan, India and beyond. Their Discover Nepal 10-day tour is an ideal way to get to know the soul of Nepal, complete with elephant-back jungle safaris in Chitwan, sightseeing in Kathmandu, handicraft shopping in Jawalekhel, insightful visits to Buddhist shrines, Himalayan views, and even a home stay in the culturally rich village of Gurung if you so desire, where the community folks take pride in regaling guests with traditional stories, Nepali dances and songs.

NB- the accommodations are comfortable, but simple. The food is delicious, and uncomplicated. The itineraries are active, yet provide a renewed sense of peace and calm within your mind.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Special savings on the 10 day Nepal Trek now available starting at just $1600 USD per person, double occupancy including private transport, hotel accommodations, breakfast daily, guided city tours ,activities, all entrance fees, and domestic flight as per programme. Click HERE for more information or to book and be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

CAMBRIDGE BEACHES RESORT, Bermuda

Have you had enough of winter yet? We understand, and fortunately there's a haven you can escape to where the gray-sky-blues don't exist. Bermuda, a tiny dot in the Atlantic at just 21 miles long, ticks all the boxes - crystal clear waters, stunning uncrowded pink sand beaches, year round warm weather and friendly people. Add to this a wide choice of restaurants, excellent water sports and a number of cultural attractions and you have something to please even the most jaded of travelers.

Cambridge Beaches Resort is set on its own 30 acre peninsula with the ocean on two sides and Mangrove Bay on the third and has four lovely private beaches and several sandy coves.

Accommodation is in cottages scattered throughout the grounds. There are also three very romantic super Pool Suites, the only ones in Bermuda. They have secluded outdoor areas with panoramic ocean views and a private plunge pool on the terrace.

The resort has a long infinity pool (heatable) and direct beach access onto Mangrove Bay and the fabulous refurbished Ocean Spa offers a whirlpool, indoor swimming pool and exercise pool, solarium, shop and gym. The latest additions are the 4 Experience Suites and the Ocean Spa Pagoda in the gardens for "his and hers" massages.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Book with Prestige Holidays and enjoy a range of fantastic savings at Cambridge Beaches in Bermuda for travel between 01-15 April 2010 including a £480 early booking discount, 2 free nights and a free room upgrade, saving a total of £657 per person. But. you've got to hurry, the offer must be booked by 28 February 2010. Air inclusive packages with air on British Airways available now- please call +44142580400 and quote The Explorateur Cambridge offer. For more information on Bermuda and its hotels, please visit www.prestigeholidays.co.uk/bermuda and, as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

BEAU-RIVAGE PALACE - Lausanne, Switzerland
The endless quest for hotel perfection ends here, at the luxe Beau-Rivage Palace which sits regally upon her throne of 10 acres of private gardens on the banks of crystalline Lake Geneva. The Belle Epoque buildings of this historical luxury hotel, member of a Leading Hotels of The World, command breathtaking views across the lake and dazzling Alps and features 168 richly appointed, impossibly elegant rooms and suites all waiting to spoil you. For extra grand flair, we recommend the spectacular Luxury Executive suites, all creatively designed in unique style. Long serving as a retreat for some of the world’s most rich, royal and famous, the hotel is a stunning Swiss gem.

The dining on property is perhaps just as awe-inspiring as the views, from the new gastronomic restaurant, “Anne-Sophie Pic au Beau-Rivage Palace” (which proudly holds 2 Michelin stars) to the “Café Beau-Rivage” and the refined and stylish sushi restaurant “Miyako Lausanne”.

Their signature Cinq Mondes Spa is truly a universe of relaxation unto itself, where guests are invited to discover the beauty rituals from the world over through an array of gorgeous body treatments, pools, fitness facilities, Japanese baths and Hammams. The Beau-Rivage Palace provides the impeccable service including also a special kids program to make each stay truly personalized and unforgettable.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Special room rate of CHF 400 (off of the standard 520) per double room inclusive full buffet breakfast, glass of champagne upon arrival for travel now through 30 April 2010. Visit http://www.brp.ch/ for info on the hotel, and to book, please click HERE . And, as always, be sure & tell everyone The Explorateur sent you!

mPassport – Paris & London health care iPhone Apps
Falling ill whilst travelling not only puts a damper on your trip, but it can be downright scary. Where to go? Who to turn to? Who to trust? Who’s going to help me explain my condition in some form of passable French??? Relax...we’ve got the hookup when travelling in Paris or London and as you may have guessed, there’s an app for that.

HTH Worldwide, a global health & safety services company has unveiled mPassport® Paris and MPassport® London, the first iPhone apps designed to help travelers find quality health care and navigate health care services in these fabulous locales. It’s a virtual mobile medical passport, a personal concierge that gets you the assistance you need, when you need it right in the palm of your hand.

Download this app and you can:

-Review detailed profiles of carefully selected English-speaking doctors, dentists, hospitals and pharmacies

- Consult a map and request an appointment for an office visit on short notice

-Use iPhone mapping and GPS functionality to find the shortest route to convenient care in Paris and London

- Access the concierge service to request an appointment with a specific doctor or within a medical specialty

- Search translation tools to find the French equivalents for medical supplies, and with built in audio, hear key medical terms and phrases spoken in French

They’ve even got a web portal where subscribers can access these features globally. It’s available now for your iPhone or iTouch, downloaded straight from the app store. Check out http://www.mpassport.com/ for more information and even see a quick demo on http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4TlCTdJqwYs&feature=player_embedded
Better safe than sorry, we always say…download it today.

THE SMELL OF A GREAT BRITISH BREAK
Ever wonder what travellers take home the most as a reminder of their best British holiday? We came across some interesting tidbits we wanted to share with you, courtesy of a recent study done by www.cottages4you.co.uk, one of the nation’s premier self-catering holidaymakers.

Out of 1,000 surveyed consumers

-16% say wild country flowers
-15% say the sea
-9% say freshly cut grass
-1 in 5 are so keen to keep their holiday memories alive that they even turn their own homes into replicas of their holiday pads, adding furnishings and decor reminiscent of a fabulous stay

However, we think most would agree that the scent of a proper English breakfast is definitely the most comforting and relaxing, the smokey scents left by fresh farmhouse bacon, sausages and eggs lingering in the air triggers instant recollections of security and nostalgia and there’s no better way to immerse yourself in this bubble of bliss than booking a cottage of your own.

Cottages4you currently has thousands of cottages in their portfolio, many of which carry special offers- for further information visit www.cottages4you.co.uk or call +144845 268 1560.

FREEWHEELING ADVENTURES- Andalucia Cycling Journey
Vacations are wonderful things, they allow us to regroup, refocus, recharge and of course indulge…and then when we’re done and it’s time to return, getting back into the daily grind of life, work and exercise routines often proves to be a challenge. How about eliminating that portion altogether and opting for an amazing active holiday adventure instead? A Freewheeling Adventure to be exact, a beautifully crafted, guided cycling adventure through some of the most gorgeous and colorful routes through Andalusia, Spain.

Freewheeling Adventures believes that travel should be enriching, fascinating, serendipitous, and most of all beneficial to your health which is why they offer a wide variety of active multi-sport tour itineraries complete with healthy inclusive meals, charming accommodations and explorations beyond compare- all while keeping you fit while on holiday.

And what better place for a cycling adventure than Andalucia, Spain’s most enchanting province with tremendously dramatic landscapes, uniquely gorgeous Moorish-style architecture, quaint village markets, brilliant flora & fauna and delicious cuisine. Their 7 day/6 night journey is moderately challenging, fully guided, and departs on 05 April so get peddling & book as soon as possible before space fills up.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Book now and save 10% on this exciting Andalucia cycling journey 05-11 April 2010! For information or reservations, please visit www.freewheeling.ca or call +1.902.857.3600 and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

HARBORFRONT INN- North Fork, Long Island
Wine Spectator says it “The North Forks’s Best Lodging Option”, The Robb Report and Rachel Ray sing its praises, and we just call it plain fantastic. The Harborfront Inn is the first luxury hotel on the quaint, uncommercialized North Fork of Long Island and lies perched on the shore in a perfect spot that delivers dreamy views. Inside, 35 stylishly decorated rooms await, complete with flat-screen LCD TV, the finest Frette bed and bath linens, CD player, stereo, custom artwork, and tremendously appointed bathrooms with stone tiled walls and floors and incredible 5-head showers with adjustable massaging body sprays.

And, if you actually do wish to venture outside while staying at this slice of heaven, not to worry- the North Fork is home to dozens of world-renowned vineyards and wineries, legendary golf courses, excellent shopping, beaches and so much more. It’s one of the most charming boutique hotels around, exuding an overall charm that is just splendidly cozy and entirely romantic for that few days away you keep meaning to plan but never get around to. Easily accessible, and never more affordable, it’s time to head to the Harborfront.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- The North Fork Escape package, only for you! Includes
• Overnight midweek accommodations for two (Sunday through Thursday) including a free room upgrade from Superior to Deluxe
• North Fork gift bag in room upon arrival — a special bag of treats made exclusively on the North Fork
• Complimentary Continental Breakfast
All for just $159 per couple, a 25% savings plus these great extra values, valid for stays Sunday – Thursday through 08 Apr 2010. Certain blackout dates & conditions apply*. Call for additional information- (631) 477-0707 or visit www.theharborfrontinn.com and be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

*Offer is subject to availability. Offer cannot be combined with any other promotional offer or contract and does not apply to groups. Offer not applicable to prior reservations. Terms and conditions are subject to change at any time at the sole discretion of the Harborfront Inn.

LA TAGLIATA- Monte Pertuso, Italy

“Just go up- up up the mountain- make a left when you see the shrine and go up all the way towards Monte Pertuso, you can’t miss it”, said Ralphie, our trusted waiter at a local eatery we’d become accustomed to during a stay in Sorrento who as we found out spends 6 months in Italy and 6 months in Brooklyn because “he’s got his things here, and got his things there”. Funny that he was pushing us to try another restaurant other than his own so we took it seriously and embarked on a nailbiting journey over the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast in the dark AND the rain in a quest to find this “La Tagliata” eatery that he forbid us to miss.

When we arrived, this gorgeous place looked more like a rustic Italian dining room in a home rather than a restaurant and it was stark empty. Yet, the host looked around, eyed us suspiciously and asked quite seriously if we had a reservation. We laughed, he shrugged and then profusely apologetically sat us near the kitchen...in a place like this, we’re pretty sure we call that a JACKPOT. Though the nighttime views out over the hills are pretty magical, they’re nothing compared to the magical sights of chefs on the grill, cooking a variety of meats and home-grown vegetables to a whole new level of perfection, or the ladies hand-rolling the homemade pasta using the freshest local ingredients. The dishes came out one by one, and kept coming…we didn’t want to tell them to stop. By the time we left, this little home was packed to the hilt with a line of cars streaming down the side of the rocky inclined street waiting quite impatiently to park. Go early, DO make a reservation and do NOT miss this while on the Amalfi Coast (or anywhere near there for that matter). It’s easy to find- just take the coastal road, turn, and go up-up-up the mountain- trust us, you can’t miss it. www.latagliata.com

THAILAND DEALS- The Malicorp collection
Seriously had it yet with the cold, the rain, the sleet, being trapped inside by snowstorms? Those of you in the northeast US know exactly what we’re talking about today. It’s a hall-pass from work, true- so use the time wisely and think about heading towards the SUN. Thailand tantalizes with its wonder, its sizzling cuisine, ultra-hot beaches and value not likely found many other places in the world. Great deals abound for Explorateur readers only at Malicorp’s collection of hip boutique properties…take a dive, the water’s beautiful this time of year (or any time of year for that matter).

There’s the five-star Malisa Villa Suites, 41 magnificently designed individual private villa sanctuaries thoughtfully decorated in a stark contrast of ultra-modern and ancient Thai. Perfect for that romantic jaunt.

Want to hide away in an ultra-hip locale? Try the Sugar Palm Grand Hillside- we’re talking rooms with amazing views, and 11 outdoor pools.

Or, just want to simply chill out? Perfect, because the casual, stylish Sugar Palm Resort Kata Beach & Sugar Palm Karon Resort embody the Thai concept of “Sanuk”…the purest expression of having fun.

Quick, look out your window- convinced yet? Good…

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 10% when booking Malisa Villa Suites, Sugar Palm Grand Hillside, Sugar Palm Karon Resort and Sugar Palm Resort, Kata Beach. Valid for travel through 31 Oct 2010. Click HERE for more information on reservations and, as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

QUINTA DAS VISTAS PALACE GARDENS- Madeira
Back in the days of our youth, Madeira was a familiar family retreat- an island that always seemed so natural, so beautiful, so un-overrun by crowds and so deeply embedded in its traditional roots that it felt somehow connected to mainland Portugal by an imaginary bridge. It’s known as the pearl of the Atlantic , with rugged mountainous beauty, decorative paved streets, hidden valleys, a year-round perfect climate where gorgeous beaches, flora & fauna abound. It's produced award-winning wines, world-famous dishes, and Cristiano Ronaldo (!) so we're talking major star quality here.

The best way to describe Madeira is Charming, and as fortune would have it, the best places to stay in Madeira are the properties in the Charming Hotels Madeira portfolio. It’s a luxurious collection of the most unique boutique hotels on the island, vintage Manor Houses carefully restored to period elegance and intimate enough to ensure you experience Madeira the way it was meant to be enjoyed- tranquil, elegant, slow-paced, and just enchanted. And, have we got a deal for you…

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE-Spend one week at the stunning Quinta das Vistas Madeira, a gorgeous hillside Manor House surrounded by acres of impeccably manicured gardens and receive the following:

- Upgrade to Panoramic room guarantied
- Champagne & fruits in the room on arrival
- One full body massage per person
- Madeira wine tasting at Quinta do Estreito
-One guided visit to the famous Quinta do Monte gardens
- One Madeira wine tasting at Quinta do Estreito
- One guided visit to Quinta do Monte Gardens -One complimentary dinner at their gourmet restaurant “La Belle Terrace” on property (for clients who book the HB meal plan)

Plus, they’ll even provide luxury transportation between all of the 4 Charming Hotels properties, so you can dine at any of their 4 restaurants during your stay. Valid for travel through 31 Oct 2010 and getting there is easy, with connections via Lisbon and London. Visit http://www.charminghotelsmadeira.com/ for more information, and to book please email reservations@charminghotelsmadeira.com or call +351 291 750 000 and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

*Please quote program code Explorateur Exclusive 2010 when booking

A SAFARI FOR THE COST OF A TWEET
Ah- Twitter...some people are intrigued by it, some people haven't joined in yet, some people don't get it and some people are absolutely addicted and can't live without it....kind of like travel itself. Well, we love it and if you're still wavering, perched high atop the Twitter fence, it's time to get on board. We can give you 2 good reasons.

1. Acacia Africa is teaming up with Africafreak.com, Travelcomments.com and Planyoursfari.com and these expert safari bloggers will be judging a virtual tweet up on 26 Feb where anyone who's anyone with a passion for the rainbow nation will be telling their stories. Wild Tweep entrants simply fill in the Q&A at http://bit.ly/5gbT1f , which will be judged by this panel of expert bloggers. The winner then co-hosts the South Africa tweet-up and walks away with a 6-day overland safari! Click here to enter by 12 Feb & follow @acaciaafrica on Twitter too.

2. If you like our e-newsletters, how about following us over at @theexplorateur too. We've always got fun surprises, additional tips and the sporadic random giveaway opportunities that we don't want you to miss out on.

So, there you have it- now get Tweeting!

PLANETFONE- International phone rentals
Honestly, is there anything worse than returning from an amazing trip, settling in so that enough time passes that you forget how much you used your phone while away, and then getting a ridiculously MASSIVE cell bill? The sheer shock. The shuddering awe. The gut-wrenching aggravation you feel when you ask yourself over and over again why it was exactly that you just HAD to call your friend for 45 minutes from that riad in Marrakech just to tell her about the tagine you just ate... really? Or, how you could have thought you were outsmarting the system by sending 500 text messages back and forth, only to find they’re triple the charge internationally? It's rough. We know, we've been there too but never again. One word, Planetfone.

It's the magic solution you need when you're globe-hopping. Their mobile GSM phones work in over 150 countries seamlessly, affordably, and the process works easily. We're talking 24/7 customer support, we're talking no connection fees, no taxes, no dreaded surcharges and no minimum airtime required. The mobile phones have English-speaking Customer Support 24 hours 7 days.

You simply call and place your order, and a pre-activated GSM phone complete with 2 batteries, chargers, adapters and a case arrive at your door. They even throw in a pre-paid return shipping envelope...isn't that sweet? What's even sweeter is the satisfaction you feel knowing you can forget that dreaded bill. So, get dialing and stop stressing.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- 50% off rental fees plus Free Premium Insurance, valid through 31 Dec 2010. Visit http://www.planetfone.com/ to book and mention program code xpl. And, as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

KEMPINSKI HOTEL BAHIA ESTEPONA- Spain
It's lavish, it's lovely, it just happens to be on one of the most perfect beachfront stretches of the lazy-chic Costa del Sol, and we think you need to be there. This resort is absolutely wrapped in Spanish charm with a luxe edge, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and comfortably enveloped by manicured gardens and if its stunning spa, sophisticated elegant rooms, and exclusive lavish collection of suites weren't enough, it's also got incredible golf at its doorstep.

Plus, you've got the charming town of Estepona just minutes away- a relaxed charming Spanish slice of life between the ancient churches, typical Andalusian whitewash homes on a hillside, fishermen jostling at the port, and friends & couples strolling arm in arm along promenades lined with palms and flowers. Stop in at a beach bar (The Bikini Bar has beds on the beach), indulge in some tapas as there's no shortage here, take a few minutes to savor the gorgeous aromas of local sea fare on a grill floating through the air, and retreat back to this amazing property to complete this authentic experience.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Book the "Time To Golf" package and quote "Explorateur", and receive this luxury offering including:

-2 Nights' accommodation in a luxury room

-Daily buffet breakfast

-1 greens fee per person at choice of several exclusive golf courses

-Complimentary use of fitness studio, indoor heated pool and sauna

-Exclusive room upgrade *

Offer valid for travel through 15 May 2010, for information or reservations, contact the hotel at +34952809500 or visit http://www.kempinski-spain.com/ and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

*subject to availability

INTERCONTINENTAL MONTELUCIA RESORT & SPA, Scottsdale AZ
We know by now you've likely had it with winter, and to think- a whole other bleak, mundane February chill to get through. Groundhog Day predictions or not, you need some sun so we say head west to the Arizona desert and immerse yourself in a blanket of warmth under the Scottsdale skies.


The InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa is new, luxurious, and has its arms completely outstretched, waiting to pamper you, how can you say no? Putting the nearly-eternally-perfect weather aside, it's got Prado which just happens to be on Esquire's Top 20 New Restaurants Of The Year List. It's got smashing views of Camelback Mountain. It's got oversized rooms and a litany of activities that will keep you as busy as you want to be all day long. And, ahh....yes, it's got the award-winning Joya Spa. A Moroccan-styled palace of bliss with a list of innovative treatments so long you'll have to extend your stay just to try them all out. Consider trying the Grand Palace Suite when booking a treatment...complete with its own king bed, So-Sound treatment tables that vibrate to the beat of your choice of music, a fireplace & flat screen TV.



It's 30 acres of heaven in the middle of the desert- now that's what we call an OASIS.


EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Stay 3 nights and receive a $300 Discovery Credit for use at the resort PLUS a one-category room upgrade. Valid for travel through 31 May 2010. For more information, visit http://www.icmontelucia.com/ and to book, please call 888-627-3010 and mention code "Explorateur" when making your reservations. And, as always, naturally, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!