What to see and do in Aruba

What to See

Palm Beach offers water sports facilities such as scuba and parasailing. Other activities include beach volleyball and banana boat rides. Many of the large resorts are located right on Palm Beach, so gamers can duck into one of the hotel casinos for an added diversion.

A fun diversion for both children and adults is the Butterfly Farm, a huge, enclosed tropical garden that's home to hundreds of beautiful butterflies. Tip: The best time to visit is in the morning when you can see the new butterflies emerging from their chrysalises.

It may not be Las Vegas, but Aruba is certainly up and coming on the gambling scene with 10 casinos island-wide (in fact, the World Poker Tour has made multiple stops here). Many of the hotel casinos are quieter during the day (slots open, for example, but tables closed until early evening), but Crystal Casino, located close to the cruise port, is one of a few 24-hour joints -- and it's always hopping with slots and table games.

California Lighthouse, on the northwest tip of the island, was named after a ship called the California, which sank off the coast of Aruba in rough seas. The wreck is popular among divers. (Note: Despite local lore, this ship should not be confused with the Californian, which is famous for failing to act on distress signals from the Titanic; that ship sank off the coast of Greece.) Kids with energy to expend can try "dune surfing" on the California White Sand Dunes surrounding the lighthouse, which involves sliding down the steep dunes (sturdy jeans or pants required!).

You can go horseback riding either to the California Lighthouse, along the Malmok Beach stretch or to the Alto Vista Chapel, via Rancho Notorious. Rancho Daimari offers clopping along the coast in Arikok National Park.

Baby Beach is a good stop for small children or inexperienced swimmers. The water, in a shallow pool created by man-made rock breakwaters, is no more than five feet deep. One drawback: There are only a handful of food stands.

Travelers looking for a secluded stretch of sand should head for Rodger's Beach, on the eastern tip of the island. It's a picturesque spot (if you can ignore the view of the refinery) known for its lovely shade palms and crystal-clear, reef-protected waters. Facilities include showers, beach huts, bars and snack stands. Arashi Beach, on the northern tip of the island, is another quiet option.

Rum may immediately come to mind when you think of Caribbean spirits, but Aruba is home to another award-winning brew. Daily tours are offered at the Balashi Brewery (or Brouwerij Nacional Balashi). Guests are walked through the pilsner's production from fermentation and filtration to bottling and distribution. Next to the brewery is Balashi Gardens, an open-air bar and restaurant overlooking the Aruban countryside.

Go snorkeling at Malmok Beach, which has small coral bays filled with plenty of colorful fish just 10 feet offshore; the wreck of Antilla, a WWII German freighter, can be seen peeking out of the water here (note that no facilities are available). Are you an experienced snorkeler? Bachelor's Beach is a little rough for leisure swimming, but offers adventurous snorkeling aficionados all kinds of underwater sights on its coral-covered bottom.

Golfers should check out Tierra del Sol, a Robert Trent Jones-designed, 18-hole (par 71) course. Reserve tee times in advance.

Eagle Beach, a hangout for tourists and locals alike, is one of the longest stretches of white sand on the island. All of the amenities are here, including lovely shaded picnic areas.

Sunset Dinner on the beach

Just imagine having a sunset dinner with your loved one in the Caribbean

Where to eat in Aruba

Where to Eat

For such a small island, Aruba has a surprising wealth and variety of restaurants, serving up everything from casual Caribbean favorites to international haute cuisine. If you're looking for local dishes, try the keshi yena (spiced meat stuffed into a Gouda cheese rind) or the stoba (a traditional stew made with conch, goat or other meat). The Aruba Gastronomic Association offers a Dine Around Program that grants visitors a set of coupons for meals at select restaurants for a fixed price; see ArubaDining.com.

El Gaucho, Aruba's best Argentinean restaurant, is located in an atmospheric old-town house on the east end of Oranjestad. Meats are the main draw here, including a truly enormous T-bone steak and the Pincho Torro Caliente, billed as " the biggest shishkebab ever served."

Foodies rave about Carte Blanche, where 14 diners each evening get to watch and interact with Chef Dennis van Daatselaar as he crafts a four- or five-course meal before their eyes. Maitre d' Glen Bonset is also on hand to offer wine suggestions and mix drinks. The experience is like nothing else in Aruba, and reservations are essential.

Try the legendary Pink Iguana at Iguana Joe's Caribbean Bar & Grill, a concoction of frozen strawberries, pineapple, rum and coconut cream. Or throw back a Balashi, the local brew. On the menu are a variety of sandwiches, salads and Caribbean specialties.

Located near the airport, Marandi can be a little tricky to find -- but the romantic atmosphere and the views of the sun setting over Laguna Bay are worth the effort. The menu showcases a variety of meat and seafood dishes. Reservations are recommended.

Pinchos Grill & Bar, an outdoor eatery, is casual but chic. There's a funky bar lit with Starbucks-esque lamps, and seating for diners along the perimeter with fabulous views of the water -- the restaurant is actually located out on a pier under-lit by twinkling blue lights. Grilled meats round out the menu.

Where to stay in Aruba

Where to Stay

The vast majority of Aruba's hotels and resorts are located on the western end of the island, running from the capital city of Oranjestad up the coast. Low-rise properties are located closer to the capital, and this area is generally a little quieter; more glamorous high-rises can be found along Palm Beach and further north. For lower rates, look for a property that's near but not right on the beach, and avoid traveling over major holidays. Aruba is a popular destination year-round.

The luxe Bucuti Beach Resort is located right on Eagle Beach and offers bright, beautiful rooms with a European ambience. There's also a lovely spa and an outdoor fitness center. The resort is known for its romantic atmosphere and does not offer facilities for children; guests younger than 18 are not accepted.

The Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino is ideal for travelers who want to be right downtown in Oranjestad without straying too far from the beach (the resort has its own private island). Just off Oranjestad's main street, the hotel is a destination unto itself with a lovely spa, a large casino and some of the island's best nightlife. Adults looking for a kiddie-free vacation should stay in the Marina Hotel portion of the property, while the Ocean Suites facility welcomes families.

Budget-minded travelers can try the MVC Eagle Beach, a small property located just a short walk from Eagle Beach. Second-floor rooms offer ocean views. Both room rates and restaurant prices (the restaurant serves a mix of Caribbean and Dutch fare) are very reasonable.

Ocean 105 offers five attractive vacation rental units -- a three-bedroom villa (the Main Residence) and four newly opened apartments. All offer ocean views, as well as easy access to Arashi Beach and the Tierra del Sol golf course. The spacious accommodations are a good option for families or groups.

There is also the Westin, Marriott, Divi Aruba All-Inclusive, Tamarijn All-Inclusive, Riu Palace All-Inclusive and many more.

Visa Reform news!

Joining with other industry groups, the Air Transport Association (ATA), commended Congressman Joe Heck (R-NV) for his work in making travel to the United States easier. Heck introduced the Welcoming Business Travelers and Tourists to America Act, which would make the U.S. visa application process easier for international visitors and increase demand for air travel.

“Congressman Heck recognizes the importance of aviation and tourism to our economy and competitiveness as a country. This bill would eliminate many of the barriers and frustrations faced by potential international visitors to the United States without compromising our national security, and should be enacted as soon as possible,” said ATA President and CEO Nicholas E. Calio.
“Expanding access to rapidly growing global markets through an improved visa process is a key pillar of a much-needed National Airline Policy that would address the regulatory, tax and infrastructure issues that prevent the airline industry from contributing even more to the global economy and job creation," Calio said.
The legislation addresses many of the inefficiencies in the current U.S. visa system that makes travel to America more difficult, ATA notes. Specifically, the bill would direct the State Department to do the following:
• Hire the necessary foreign-service consular officers to support missions in China, Brazil and India to maintain a 12-day visa processing standard
• Implement a visa videoconferencing pilot program for conducting visa interviews
• Publish data on its website on wait times for visa interview appointments and visa application processing
• Coordinate and report how it is dealing with applicant demand and how demand corresponds with visitor projections
“There is clearly pent-up demand for increased U.S. visitation. If U.S. airlines are able to operate in an environment that is conducive to international expansion, the carriers will be able to add service, jobs and further drive overall economic growth of the country,” Calio said

Cabo San Lucas

At the southern tip of Mexico's Baja Peninsula are the two small towns of San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. Between these two towns is Mexico's most interesting corridor of world-class resort properties. Cabo San Lucas, famous for its oceans teaming with sport fish and whales features a large marina. This is also the center of the region's famous nightlife. Farther east is San Jose del Cabo, with quiet, picturesque streets and buildings, small restaurants and cantinas, lovely folk-art boutiques and a laid back atmosphere. Just off shore, the green blue waters of the Sea of Cortés are dotted with the famous stone formation of El Arco that so distinctly graces the shoreline. Here, where the Pacifc Ocean meets the Gulf of California, the rich and famous come to play.

The 20 mile road between the two towns is known as the Tourist Corridor, forming a extended recreational playground. Here, the desert comes to an abrupt halt and disappears into the sea. The four-lane highway between the communities of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo is lined with championship golf courses and luxury resorts that stretch in every direction along the sandy beach. The area is also home to a well-developed arts community. Cultural and modern art boutiques and galleries are plentiful and well appointed. The art available ranges from ancient cave drawings to modern figurative and abstract paintings and sculptures.

The surf here is heavy. The convergence of the waters create giant swells, and the currents are colder than one might expect at this southerly latitude. The desert landscape is a startling and stark contrast to the azure blue water. The cacti, yuccas and creosote bush in this mountainous setting are home to deer, bighorn sheep and antelope as well as big cats like mountain lions. Truly this area forms one of the most magnificent ecological regions of the world. Although the resorts and million dollar mansions leave no doubt that the financial resources of the world have found a home here, there is also much for those interested in ecotourism to see and do. Tour operators offer jeep safaris into the mountains and deserts, through the canyons and riverbeds of the mostly dry, arid landscape. However, here and there you will see freshwater flowing down the mountainsides from underwater aquifers that provide cool waters to local wildlife. Kayaking and ATV tours, ziplines and educational eco-tours will give every member of the family an activity to enjoy.

The Baja calls the visitor to spend time out-of-doors. The waters here are known worldwide for trophy deep-sea fishing and several professional tournaments are hosted here each year. Charters are readily available at very reasonable day rates. Surfing is also a popular pastime with the crowd that follows the endless summer, and lessons are available here in an atmosphere more friendly to the novice than that found in Southern California or Hawaii. No fewer than ten spectacular beaches awaits the visitor to Cabo San Lucas, ideal for romantic walks, kayaking, picnics and photography. Not all are ideal for swimming because of the infamous undertow that results from the strong currents, but swim spots are plentiful and well marked. If golf is your game, Cabo offers up a selection of world-class courses. Indeed, the area is known as one of the world's premier golf destinations. Set against the Sea of Cortés, many of the courses have few equals for spectacular locale.
As one might imagine in such a setting, the nightlife, dining and spa facilities in Cabo are first rate. The dining is excellent not only at the resorts, but in the village taverns and restaurants. Local cuisine is authentically Mexican and wonderfully prepared. The numerous venues for late night dancing and partying cater to an upscale crowd as well as to a more relaxed clientele, so take your pick. It's all here in Cabo.

Fashion and Shopping tours

If you are addicted to Project Runway, if you devour the fall fashion issue of Vogue, if you have an account with Bag, Borrow or Steal (a website where a monthly fee allows you to "borrow" designer handbags and jewelry), if you and your friends have arguments over the efficaciousness of skinny jeans (or boyfriend jeans, or low cut jeans, ...), or if you simply love fashion and all that goes along with it, it may be time to look into booking a fashion/shopping tour.

What is a fashion or shopping tour, you ask? A fashion/shopping tour is a planned tour through the fashion districts, shopping districts, fashion museums, and other fashion-oriented hot spots that a region has to offer. If you can think of a major city, it is certain to have a fashion culture, and a fashion tour will give you an up close and personal look at a city's fashion culture. The culture changes quickly, and whatever is popular in these cities is soon reflected in retail stores and outlets everywhere. Fashion tours aren't just for the shopper, however. They are also a great educational opportunity for students studying art design and other aspects of the creative world, such as cosmetology. If you're a student, a fashion tour can open up your eyes to the variety of jobs available in the industry and even possibly introduce you to contacts for future jobs.

Want more? Read on!

While most cities have some sort of fashion district, there are certain cities known as the fashion capitals of the world.

Florence & Milan - These two cities are world renowned for their influence on fashion, and tourists often combine visits to the two places into one trip. In Florence, you can visit one of the many museums that showcase fashion and textiles, such as the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum. This museum houses a collection that showcases the designer's contributions to fashion worldwide. Visits to the POLIMODA International Institute of Fashion Design & Marketing, the Italian Academy and various designers' studios are all on the must-visit list in this fabulous city. And no fashion expedition to Florence would be complete without visiting the marvelous shopping districts. The designer fashion outlets are not to be missed: Prada, Valentino, Armani, Yves Saint Laurent and many other designers have outlets for their top fashions where travelers can see the latest styles before they are distributed worldwide.

In Milan, you'll find many similar museums and designer studios. Also, the Via Montenapoleone is one of the most famous fashion shopping streets in the world for luxury designer outlets. In addition to touring the top fashion districts, you will also experience the amazing restaurants of the region. In Italy where the love of food is so immersed in the culture, it is difficult to separate the fashion and cuisine industries.

Paris - The City of Lights is also the city of high fashion. Channel, Christian Dior, Stella McCartney, Louis Vuitton and many other famous designers are all at the heart of Paris fashion. Many fashion tours available in Paris. Tours geared strictly for serious shoppers can take you to designer studios and private fashion shows.

Shoppers who don't have impressive buying power still have plenty of other options. A tour of the many museums dedicated to Paris's fashion culture could keep a fashionista busy for days. Three centuries of fashion can be viewed at the Musee Galliera - Musee De La Mode De La Ville de Paris. Approximately 90,000 items of clothing and other pieces represent fashions from the eighteenth century though modern day. Other museums include Fondation Pierre Berge - Yves Saint Laurent and the Toile de Jouy.

Of course, fashion houses, designer's studios, and seasonal fashion shows are also reasons to take a tour of Paris. The fashion culture is so large and varied in Paris that it almost seems best to take a guided tour to make sure that you don't miss anything. However, a well researched, self directed tour is certainly an option.

New York City - In the United States, the Big Apple is the fashion capital. In addition to touring the garment and textile district, fashion houses, designer's studios, and shops, you can walk the Fashion Walk of Fame on the East Side of Seventh Avenue, (known locally as Fashion Avenue) between 41st and 35th Street. The Walk of Fame honors America's top fashion designers. There are museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute and the Fashion Institute of Technology Museum to visit as well. The hottest NYC shopping areas? The Garment District, Soho, the lower East Side, Fifth Avenue, and Chelsea. Brooklyn is also an emerging fashion hotspot, easily accessible from the city.

Los Angeles - Over on the other side of the country, you can get yourself lost in fashion heaven in L.A.'s Fashion District, a downtown neighborhood that spans more than ninety city blocks and is home to over six hundred stores. Much of the neighborhood is dedicated to wholesale shopping. The Intersection at 9th and Los Angeles Streets is the location of four designer showrooms (New Mart, Gerry Building, Cooper Design Space and California Market Center) where shoppers can pick up wholesale items which won't be in the L.A. retail stores for at least another season or two. You can also pick up fabrics for making your own fashions from the Fashion District's textiles area located between Maple Avenue and San Julian Street from 8th Street to Olympic Boulevard.

For those L.A. fashion tourists who are interested in serious bargain shopping, the district's Santee Alley open-air market place is a thriving area. This bazaar-style negotiation shopping offers a whole new experience. Of course, high-end shoppers can make their way out of the Fashion District and over to Beverly Hills to enjoy the famous boutiques of Rodeo Drive and possibly spot a movie star.

All of these top fashion tour destinations have times of year when the industry is more bustling than usual. Particularly in the fall when the new fashion lines are being unveiled and the high retail season is near, there are fashion shows, exhibits and other special events. If you want a real insider's look at the fashion industry, planning a tour during fall fashion week may be a good idea. However, it will probably be pricier than if you plan a tour at another time during the year, and tickets to events are often hard to come by.

The holiday shopping season is a mixed blessing event for shopper and retailer alike. The stores are filled with inventory and selection is excellent. However, stores are also crowded, accommodations are in peak demand, and prices at their highest. Work with your travel consultant, and your accountant, to figure out the best dates for your fashion pilgrimage.

Keep in mind that a fashion tour does not need to happen in one of the world's major cities. Many regions in the United States have popular fashion areas: try a long weekend visiting vintage and upscale boutiques in cities like Las Vegas, San Francisco, Honolulu, Miami, Dallas, and Atlanta. This type of fashion tour might quench your thirst for a fashion fix and make a more reasonable dent in your pocketbook.

You can choose to either independently book your fashion tour where you have the freedom to visit only the places that interest you and the freedom to spend as much time as you want at each place, or you can choose to book a guided fashion or shopping tour with a set itinerary. There are advantages to both options, and your choice will depend, very simply, on what you want to do.

By booking independently and with the help of a travel consultant, you can create your own itinerary and visit the areas of the shopping or fashion districts that really interest you. For instance, you may be much more interested in the shopping end of a fashion tour than in a behind the scenes look at a designer's warehouse or museums. If you create your own itinerary, you can make your tour heavy on the shopping - and still see most of the sites you'd fins on a guided tour.

Personal preference may also prompt you to design your own tour schedule. You may choose to stay away from fashion houses or designers who use fur or leather in their fashions, for example, which may not be as easy to do if you are working with a tour operator. If you choose to design your own itinerary, you will have to spend time researching the fashion districts. You want to make sure you don't miss out on any important experiences.

Fashion and shopping tours are increasingly popular in the specialty tour industry. Presently, the majority of tour companies offer tours in the most high profile fashion cities, but the demand for fashion tours is pushing into new destinations. In the US, cities such as Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Boston and Dallas all have bustling fashion districts and those who produce fashion tours will be adding them to their roster of must-see fashion spots. The options in Europe are increasing as well. If you want to visit a city that doesn't have a professional guided fashion tour, there may be one soon! Of course, you and your travel consultant can always create your own personal fashion or shopping tour - it's easier than you might think.

Most tour operators offer tours ranging from high-end shopping to outlet malls. Some specialize in boutiques, and some in the larger department and ready-to-wear stores. And many will customize a trip just for you and your companions. It may seem like you could easily take care of shopping on your own, but having someone else who knows where to go also take care of the accommodation and transportation logistics can really free you up to relax and have a blast.

By choosing a guided tour with a set itinerary, the research will already be done for you. A good pre-planned tour will make sure that you hit all of the important stops in the fashion district. In addition, traveling with the guided tour may give you access to areas of the district which you wouldn't have if you chose to travel independently. You may not have access to tickets to a sold out fashion show that the guided tour has, for example. As another example, a behind the scenes look at a designer's studio included in a guided tour may be unavailable to the general public.

A good shopping or fashion tour operator offers the secret addresses of showrooms and shops not found in the guidebooks, plus local shopping tips only a native will possess. If traveling out of the country, most tour operators will offer bilingual guides that do not work on commission and are therefore capable of providing objective, unbiased advice. Best of all, a good tour operator will help you make the most of your time away from home. Your time at your destination will be well organized and efficient. Additionally, some of the activities and shopping opportunities available on a guided tour may be discounted for clients. If you are looking for very particular items, make sure to pass your request on to your travel consultant very early in the booking process.

Finally, a good shopping/fashion tour operator will be able to arrange a variety of special touches such as limo or car service, spa services, special meals at hard to arrange dining establishments and even meetings with some designers.

Whether booking with a tour operator or independently, your travel consultant often will be able to track down attractive accommodation and flight options packaged at a discount. Booking early is important if you book during the holiday season when shopping is at its peak in most cities.

If you are creating an independent tour, much preparation will be necessary, less so if you are booking with a tour operator. With a copy of your itinerary in hand, you may want to do a little research on what you'll be seeing so that you can make the most of your tour. While on your tour, you are bound to hear the names of many designers, fashion houses, high-end stores and the like and you'll want to know ahead of time who these people are. For example, if you're taking a tour in New York City, you may know who Calvin Klein is, but what about Cynthia Steffe or Brian Reyes? If their names were mentioned, wouldn't it be good to know a little about them? Knowing the newest names in haute couture or the latest bridge designers will provide you with interesting insights into the very latest fashions and trends.

In addition to studying shopping and designer basics, there are a few general tips to keep in mind for shopping in an unfamiliar location. First of all, know what types of fashions are best bought in a location. For example, some locations are great for the trendiest new shoes, while others offer the best deals on handbags or leather goods. Once you know what items to look for, you should plan to focus your shopping on those items. Other than staying focused, one of the most important shopping skills is patience. It is easy to want to buy everything you see as soon as you see it, but you should take the time to find the right items for you at the right price. Do you need it? Do you love it? Do you really love it? Would you buy it even if it wasn't on sale? Can you return it later if you need to? These are all good questions to ask, because - after all, you don't want to run out of money or luggage space on day one of your fashion tour. Also, be sure to give some consideration to the etiquette of bargaining; some cities practically expect negotiation while others would be highly offended.

If you are visiting a non-English speaking country, learning a few choice phrases is always a good idea. If you have booked a tour with a guide, you may have an English speaking guide at your disposal to ease any translation worries, but English is widely spoken in most fashion destinations.

Pack wisely. You may be touring the culture that lives for the five inch heel, but this is travel we are talking about, and you'll be doing plenty of walking. Comfortable shoes and clothing is a must. Of course, you'll want to look your best, so start by considering ballet flats. You should also pack an empty bag (or two). After all, you will be touring shopping districts and chances are that in those districts, you'll be doing shopping. You'll need a way to take your new fashion treasures home with you. Ask your travel consultant if you'll need to budget extra for luggage charges, if you are traveling by plane.

Whether you are a serious student of fashion, a passionate fan of the industry, or simply a serious shopper, you should definitely consider a fashion tour for your next vacation. On your tour, you can gain an education, an appreciation for the fashion culture in an inevitably exciting city, a unique experience, and possibly even a closet full of fantastic new clothes and accessories!

Things to do and see in Montreal, Canada

Montreal

An infectious sense of joie de vivre pervades the way this 400-year-old city presents itself and conducts its business. History feels close in the period buildings that line the streets of Old Montreal, but the city wholly embraces the modern. Buildings in unexpected shapes and colors scrape the skyline; a beautifully preserved historic district evokes the city's European heritage; and Montreal's beer culture and culinary scene rival those of its south-of-the-border compatriots.

Things to Do
A visit to Montreal starts in Old Town, or Vieux-Montreal, where restored 18th- and 19th-century architecture have been adapted for use as shops, galleries, cafes, and bars. The breathtaking Notre-Dame Basilica stands as the city's spiritual heart. Montréalers come to shop, dine, and play at Plateau Mont-Royal. Take a relaxing horse-drawn calèche for the view at the top of Parc du Mont-Royal. In spring and summer, don't miss the Montreal Botanical Gardens. When it's cold, visit the Underground City to shop, dine, or see a movie -- all without donning an overcoat or putting on snow boots.

Shopping
Stylish Montreal is the place to rejuvenate a tired wardrobe. Find Quebecois and Canadian boutiques and vintage clothing stores on Saint-Denis Street and Du Mont-Royal Avenue. Sift through local arts and crafts in the shops on Saint-Paul Street, or try the cobblestone side streets of Vieux-Montreal. Markets are a great spot for local tomatoes and handmade cheeses; two of the most popular are the Atwater Market near Metro Lionel-Groulx and the huge, open-air Jean-Talon Market near Little Italy.

Nightlife and Entertainment
Much of the nightlife is clustered downtown around Crescent Street, where lively bars and discos stay open to the wee hours and residents dress to impress. Quickly emerging as a hot spot, Vieux-Montreal, especially along Saint-Paul Street, is filled with shiny cocktail bars and glitzy clubs showcasing live jazz, blues, and folk music. The city boasts its own outstanding symphony, dozens of French- and English-language theater companies.

Restaurants and Dining
Montreal's cuisine is increasingly multicultural. Fine French dining is given a Quebecois twist with locally sourced seafood, especially in the elegant ""restos"" along Sherbrooke Street. Top-quality sushi bars line Saint-Catherine Street and romantic hideaways and grills are tucked away on Amherst. Montreal is known for its smoked meat and corned beef, and the city's best brisket is served up at Schwartz's. Local love their terraces, and some of the prettiest are found on Mont-Royal.

Beautiful Hotels in St. Barth's French West Indies

La Banane - Lorient When Parisian entrepreneur Jean-Marc Israel first discovered this petite hotel he was enamored of its sexy sophisticated style and its secluded location. He is now the new owner. The equally sophisticated Monsignor Israel and his partner La Banane’s director, Benjamin Fabbri collaborated to gild the bougainvillea. The result? Parfait! The décor of the poolside lobby-cum bar and library is mid-century modern and the chic 50s’ design gives a nod to the heyday of Rémy de Haenen, the father of St. Barth's tourism. One can easily imagine the glitterati of the era lounging about here; and Hollywood starlets of yore posing in those beautiful chairs sipping Dom Perignon, or splashing in the one of the two, lovely, lovely, palm-shaded pools.

Hotel Carl Gustaf - Gustavia The glamorous Carl Gustaf in Gustavia was named, with a nod to history, for the current King of Sweden. A bit of the story here is that Swedes took possession of St. Barth from the French back in the 18th century. They renamed the town, Gustavia to honor their then king, Gustav III and interestingly, declared it a free port. The French later reacquired the island but charming touches of Sweden remain, as does the duty-free port. And to think all of this happened long before the birth of Dolce or Gabbana, the invention of Seven Jeans or even Tennis bracelets. The hotel’s name suits it well as it rises regally above the picture-postcard town and its fairytale, Lilliputian harbor; Elegant and boutique-y compact, the lobby, bar, restaurant and pool all blend together. It works beautifully. If the spirit moves you during lunch you can just slip into the pool for a cooling dip. The bar is justly famous as a venue for sunset cocktails, a venerable tradition in St. Barth. They mix a mean Mojito …..and a little tapas to go with? There are 14 individual one-and two-bedroom villa suites, each angled into the hillside for maximum views, and surrounded by lush tropical foliage. We were delighted on our recent inspection to see the renovations and new décor.

Hotel Christopher - Pt. Milou It has dropped the “Le” and the “The” and is now simply, serenely, and beautifully Christopher. It really is one of St. Barth’s grande dames and it begins this decade refurbished to its past 4 star glory days – and then some. Poised out on a promontory in chi-chi Pointe Milou, the sound of the surf provides the perfect score to breathtaking panoramic views. Guests settled in poolside on the comfy lounges, gaze out at the neighboring islands and look as pleased as well, Ti Punch. Oh, that pool – lusciously large and infinity-edged it meanders along the waterfront and seems to merge with the sea. It is banked with plush lounging beds, and a little "pool island" – complete with palm trees – is a primo spot to see and be seen while sunbathing.

Emeraude Plage - St. Jean The decidedly and intentionally low-key Emeraude Plage is a delightful spot and a favorite of savvy St. Barth travelers. Many return again and again and relish its ocean front setting on St. Jean Beach, its casual ambiance, and we’d guess its proximity to the St. Jean Village. Staying at Emeraude Plage means never having to hunt for a parking spot in the so chic and so popular little town, with its wealth of bistros and trendy boutiques. Accommodations here consist of 24 bungalows, 2 cottages and a villa charmingly laid out, together with the reception area and a library. They form two semi-circles amidst a lovely tropical garden – oleander and bougainvillea galore. You will find everything well appointed; the bedrooms and baths are spacious and they offer all the standard amenities for your convenience. Each unit includes a full-equipped kitchenette to provide you that nice option of quietly dining in – or alfresco on your private terrace. .

Hotel Guanahani & Spa - Grand Cul de Sac Nestled in a very private peninsula, the Hotel Guanahani & Spa is St. Barth’s largest hotel and the island’s only full service resort. It’s a gorgeous (think hibiscus, bougainvillea and a coconut grove) 16 acre retreat. But lest you think it is too big – au contraire – there are just 70 rooms and suites housed in charming, brightly colored cottages that trail down to the two beaches. Yes, two – the ocean side Marigot and the reef-protected Grand Cul de Sac. And two pools and a Jacuzzi big enough for the whole family. The Guanahani with its resort’s-worth of water sports and activities, its Kindergarten and Juniors’ Club, makes for the perfect family vacation spot. But then the Hotel Guanahani would be perfect for just about anyone, elegant, intimate and languorous; it’s an ideal romantic getaway. Spa aficionados should note the addition of full-service Spa by Clarins; barefoot-chic like the hotel… 8 treatment rooms… thatched roof bungalows and a beautiful, quiet pool.

Hotel Manapany & Spa - Anse des Cayes The Hotel Le Manapany is a 4-star property situated prettily on the north shore’s secluded Anse des Cayes. The property is an expansive complex offering a variety of accommodations; there are a total of 41 rooms and suites, many housed in charming gingerbread cottages nestled into the hillside and configured into double rooms and junior suites. Each has its own private patio and an ocean or garden view. All are decorated beautifully and include lovely four-poster canopied king-beds. The rooms and suites are air-conditioned and offer all the necessary amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The Junior Suites are more spacious and luxurious (guests love the upgrade to plasma TVs); they have balconies, sitting areas, baths that include both tub and shower and double sinks. The suites can connect with the double (superior category) rooms to make a cottage and a nice option for families and friends traveling together. Beach front and just steps from the water are Junior Suites and 2-bedrooms apartments in individual bungalows with open-sided living and dining areas. Sleeping options include king beds and twins, suitable for children. The baths include both tub and shower.

Les Ondines sur la Plage - Grand Cul de Sac Barefoot elegance – literally. The intimate, charming and yes, elegant Les Ondines sits right on the beautiful beach at Grand Cul de Sac. You can have your toes in that gorgeous white sand within minutes of arrival and then just pad along to your suite. At Les Ondines barefoot elegance means never having to wear your flip-flops. The suites here – and it is an all-suite property, just 7 in all – are beautifully decorated but yet comfy-cozy and offer all the mod cons for independent living. Accommodations include 2 two-bedroom and 5-one bedroom suites with airy living/dining areas and kitchens. The bedrooms have king beds. The bathrooms are very spacious; all have showers and most also have tubs. Les Ondines might best be described as villa living in a hotel. We love the spacious covered terraces; you can enjoy your complimentary continental breakfast served there, or poolside. And here’s something really fun – they have a resident chef who will prepare a gourmet meal of your choosing. Dine in or al fresco on your terrace.

Le Sereno - Grand Cul de Sac Old St. Barth hands will remember the Sereno Beach hotel but they wouldn’t recognize its reincarnation as the ultra-hip Le Sereno. This amazing renaissance beautifully shows off the handiwork of an A-Team headed by hot-hot-hot Parisian designer Christian Liaigre; and it evokes that same urban chic for which he is justly famous. Sleek, with white walls and gleaming dark wood floors, it’s as stylishly cosmopolitan as the best city boutique. And here it is in St. Barth’s picture-postcard Grand Cul de Sac, an intimate beachfront hotel. Accommodations include the charming and airy Suite Terrasse rooms, each with its own terrace and nestled into a private garden, the spacious ocean front Grand Suite Plage rooms, and two delicious one-bedroom villas. Upping the wow factor are the latest additions: three stunning – and sprawling - four bedroom villas* with spectacular views, amenities galore, and 24- hour butler service.

Hotel St. Barth Isle de France - Flamands Beach The Isle de France is in every sense a world class hotel that more than meets all the international standards for luxury and comfort. Suffice to say it is one of St. Barth’s best addresses – if not in all of the Caribbean. Anchored on pristine Flamands Beach, it is beautiful in design – and even sexier after its makeover in 2002 – all gorgeous shades of blue. Elegant? Absolutely. But in an understated way. The Isle de France is the grand master of casual sophistication. And you will find the service friendly and attentive. The brilliantly whitewashed main building, set just above the beach, houses 9 rooms and 3 suites. It is here we see that iconic and frequently photographed breezeway framing an amazing snapshot of the azure sea. It’s breathtaking. We recommend the 2nd floor accommodations for those who would rather see than be seen but if you prefer the latter, the ground level will put you and your chaise lounge in the midst of all the action: the pool, a little bar and the beachside restaurant, La Case de l'Isle – and all those beautiful people clinking glasses under beach umbrellas. It’s all so St. Barth

Tom Beach - St. Jean The chic and fun ambiance of Le Tom Beach Hotel is no surprise to St. Barth regulars, considering it is owned and managed by Thierry de Badereau of Ti St-Barth fame – or notoriety, depending on your point of view. If you have ever danced on the tables there you know what we are talking about and if not, put it on your to-do list. If you love it, consider Le Tom Beach for your next St. Barth vacation. This boutique hotel is a kissing cousin of Ti St. Barth. Its location is superb, just steps from the famous and scene-eist St. Jean Beach where in addition to see and being seen you can indulge in all the water sports and generally do some serious hangin’ out. And being so close to chi-chi St. Jean Village for dining and shopping is an added plus.

Tropical Hotel - St. Jean This is a lovely property – cozy and nice. Over the years Le Tropical has garnered a legion of fans that came first for the more modest rates but return again and again for the hospitality and the charming ambiance of what is one of St. Barth’s best values. The location in St. Jean is, of course, superb and just a short stroll from all the boutiques and shops. Le Tropical is not right on the beach but just about 40 yards up an incline which in turn makes for a wonderful view of those turquoise waters. There are 20 rooms in total; 9 boasting ocean views and private terraces. The others are set in a lush tropical garden and have delightful covered verandas. All are prettily decorated in Creole style and have king beds. The swimming pool, with its comfortable sitting area, is a central feature of the complex. Perched as it is on that hill above the beach, lounging and sunning at Le Tropical comes with fabulous views. There’s a nice, little bar here that guests frequent at cocktail time before heading out to one of the island’s myriad restaurants.

Village St. Jean - St. Jean “Le Village” is somewhat of a venerable institution here in St. Barth; opened in 1969 by the Charneau family, it’s managed today by the 2nd generation. It has legions of loyal fans who love the ambiance here, warm and family-friendly. Essentially Le Village is a collection of charming stone and wooden cottages scattered prettily through tropical gardens. Central to the compound is a reception area and beautiful infinity pool with a companion Jacuzzi. New this season is a fitness center and private room for massages and other spa treatments. Accommodations include a handful of hotel rooms, twenty cottages and three villas. All are individually designed and decorated in a nice blend of modern and traditional Caribbean motif. The cottages and villas have fully equipped kitchenettes. There are lots of choices for guests, who include families with children, and there is a real sense of community, which is appealing.

Reasons to use a travel agent

1. You’d never been to Spain before, so you asked around for travel advice. Your college roommate’s brother, who had spent a semester in Spain a few years ago, enthusiastically gave you a list of all the places he’d stayed at. It wasn’t until after you’d arrived in Madrid that you realized you’d booked yourself into the top youth hostel in town.

2. You’d heard cruising is an all-inclusive experience and it was pretty exciting when you went on that cruise discount website and saw those great photos of passengers sipping cocktails and touring the great sights of Europe. So it was sort of embarrassing when you got on board and realized none of those things were part of the “all-inclusive experience.”

3. You wanted to get away for the weekend so you “tweeted” a question to the masses asking if anyone knew of a great B&B in the New York area. JoeTravels, who seemed like a nice guy, was the first to respond with a great offer for a cute looking place, which turned out to be his house. You ended up sleeping in his kids’ room all weekend and having Cheerios for breakfast.

4. You knew you shouldn’t have dawdled in the straw market during your shore excursion but you thought your cruise ship would never take off without you. But it did! I’ll bet that website you used to book your cruise can’t wait for you to call them to tell the news and help you get off that island.

5. A room overlooking Rome sounded just swell in the online hotel description and it only cost 150 euro a night. Such a deal! Turns out it did overlook Rome but it was 10 miles out of town and cab service to the city center was 75 euro each way.

6. You weren’t really sure what a repositioning cruise was, but it sure did cost less than the other itineraries you read about. Who knew it would make only two stops during a 10-day trip?

7. You asked your friends on Facebook where you should go for your honeymoon, and a guy you went to high school with (whom you only sort of remember) told you he ran a travel company and that he’d get you a discount. It was only after he’d taken your money and disappeared that you remembered that he’d also disappeared suddenly during senior year, to serve time for stealing all the hubcaps of the school’s buses.

8.You booked that gorgeous hotel on the California coastline and you couldn’t believe how beautiful the views of the Pacific looked in the online photos. So you were a little disappointed to find on arrival that to actually get to the beach you had to walk half a mile and cross over a highway.

9. Your neighbor just came back from an expensive ranch vacation out west and has been bragging about it endlessly. You got so jealous you went ahead and booked yourself on the same trip. But when you got there you realized just how much you hate the great outdoors and how horses kind of scare you. And those mosquitoes!

10. You and your fragile, aged, wealthy aunt both love animals, so you thought a cougar cruise sounded fun. After seven days of constantly being mistaken for women on the prowl, your aunt has written you out of her will and you figure you’ll only need seven years of therapy to recover from the entire experience.

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