More failures to come, warn travel experts

Travel experts are predicting further travel company failures in light of the Goldtrail collapse.

Caroline Bremner, global travel and tourism manager for Euromonitor International, said: “The significance of Goldtrail's failure is not down to its size as its customers represent less than one per cent of UK outbound departures. Instead, its demise is a warning sign to other travel companies that the industry is not out of the woods yet.

"The company's failure comes at a time when [Euromonitor believes] the UK outbound volumes will decline further by 6% this year to reach 55 million and positive growth will not return until 2012.”

Nick Harris, head of Holiday and Travel Law at Simpson Millar LLP in Manchester, believes Goldtrail won’t be the only company to go under this year.

“Although a growing number of small holiday firms have gone belly up, the peak of the holiday season usually goes some way in postponing these failures,” he said.

“It is usually in the autumn when travel firms go bust. The timing of the Goldtrail failure is concerning but I doubt it will be the only travel business to face closure in 2010.”

He also believes the company’s demise heralds the end of the dynamic package.

“The collapse of holiday firm Goldtrail will almost certainly put a nail in the coffin of the ‘dynamic packaging’ concept,” he said.

“Dynamic packaging was created to feed the hunger for cheap, no frills travel. However, many customers are unaware that some of these cheap providers are not accredited by ATOL, ABTA or the CAA which can have disastrous results if the company fails, as happened with XL last year.

“My advice to travellers is to avoid dynamic packaging where possible, or make sure that providers are accredited and have a solid reputation.

“Saving a few pounds can be a false economy in the long run and that cheap getaway can quickly turn into a holiday from hell.”

By Bev Fearis @ Travelmole

Forget about the World Cup debacle and head to the island of Skopelos in Greece.

The dreamy beaches, blue skies and the heat make the Greek islands a great holiday destination. In the northern Aegean Sporades, a quick ferry ride away from Skiathos, the fragrant forested island of Skopelos feels like another world and has become internationally known thanks to one of our favourite movies!

Why go?
In addition to the fantastic weather, there’s the tasty Greek food, the history, culture and that holiday atmosphere you just can’t make up. But, most of all, Skopelos (which means ‘rocky’) is the island where Mamma Mia! was filmed as the fictional island of ‘Kalokairi’ so it’s a little piece of Hollywood too.

When is the best time to go?
The summer is its hottest, so try the shoulder seasons. Locals say the best time is May, June and September to avoid the crowds of tourists and get better deals. Another good time to visit is February when it’s carnival time. The whole island celebrates from around mid February to early March with parties, parades and traditional events.

Eating out...
Make a beeline for the island’s heart, the ancient port of Skopelos town. Typical whitewashed houses and churches are wedged in narrow higgledy piggeldy streets with the picturesque blue doors, blossoming bougainvillea and washing hanging out of windows.

The town is full of small restaurants, on the waterfront and also beyond in the main square, Platanos Square, where you can sample typical Greek dishes in the shade of a huge tree.

In Glossa don’t miss the Agnanti restaurant, founded in 1953 with amazing sea views and delicious traditional recipes. Try the tasty ’meze’, small dishes like taramosalata, dolmades (stuffed grapevine leaves) and the famous tatziki as well as the local delicacy: tyropita (feta wrapped in filo pastry) with a little local retsina, dry white wine served chilled.

For desert try the walnut cake or the local favourite: "avgato" a traditional sweet juicy yellow plums from the island.

If you’re renting a villa, what could be easier than a Greek salad with fresh feta cheese from the local store (once you’ve worked out their obscure opening hours)?

The best spot for a pre dinner drink and is Anemos - friendly service, the prime waterfront location and the cosy lounge sofas make it an ideal spot to relax. With a great selection of beers and local wines, it’s easy to become a regular!

Mamma Mia movie fans should try the Mamma Mia! Bar on the southern end of town, next to the life size grounded pirate ship turned restaurant. There are also several beach bars there on the sand which can be very romantic at night.

Another good spot is across the bay, looking back at the twinkling city lights, the Karyatis Cocktail Bar set on a pine-forest cliff is all about drinking and dancing. The friendly staff make a mean Mojito!

Shopping…
Skopelos Town is the place to browse the boutiques to bring home souvenirs. Jewellery shops, like Potoki offer gold and silver classic bracelets and more modern designs while Giannakopoulos’ harbour front boutique is all about handmade pieces, pearls and precious stones. There are also plenty of stores for beachwear like flip-flops, sarongs and other useful bits and pieces.

Pick up some local honey at Ambrosia, too, a bakery that has lots of local goodies, like plum croissants and honey doughnuts.

Rent a villa…
Follow in Pierce Brosnan’s footsteps and book your own villa. He stayed at the smart Metochi Villa overlooking Skopelos town just like the Villa Thea.

Built to the highest specifications, the villa combines all the best features of the island’s traditional designs with contemporary furnishings.
The swimming pool is surrounded by hardwood decking with a lawn spreading out beyond. Local stone has been used to great effect, both on the terrace walls and slate for the roof. The modern BBQ area is perfect for al fresco living and may well prove to be the most popular area of the house. On the ground floor a fully equipped kitchen, an open plan living and dining room open onto the terracing. Upstairs are three large bedrooms, two double bedrooms and a twin bedroom. There is a master bedroom with a shared balcony overlooking the fantastic sweep of the bay. A large bathroom which includes a washing machine, is shared by all three bedrooms. Traditionally built open beamed ceilings and wooden floors on the first floor complement the modern bedroom furniture and emphasise the thought that has gone into blending the classical with the contemporary.

Don’t miss...
At just 13 miles long, you can drive around the entire island in a matter of hours but there is plenty to see, and do – or not do!

Take in the natural beauty: the rugged landscape, sheer cliffs one one side, beautiful beaches on the other and enjoy that southern feel that comes with olive groves, orchards and vine plantations.

Prefer to stay put on the sand? Head to the beach at Limonari, where the Mamma Mia crew filmed (about 10km from Skopelos town) with its perfect sandy beach, clear water and tiny Taverna!

A few kilometres on you’ll find Kastani where the famous ‘flippers on the jetty’ scenes were shot, although the jetty was only temporary. The next beach along, Milia is the longest, a full 1km sandy beach where Tom Hanks and Jean Paul Gaultier have been spotted sunning themselves on their yachts. Seeing the island from the sea is a must so why not rent a speedboat for the day? The island is part of a Marine Park made for the local monk seals so you never know who you might see.

To stay closer to town, try Agios Glisteri just a few of kilometres away from the port. It’s also the location of the film’s ‘Villa Donna’ and the fictional tavern, though all there is left of it is the wooden sign.

On the northern end of the island, take some time to explore Glossa, the hilltop town that dates back to 400BC. It has great sea views and a handful of restaurants and shops and plenty of character. It’s also about half an hour away from the Agios Ioannis, the clifftop church that appears as the wedding chapel in Mamma Mia. Be warned - the steps are really steep!

The island is also home to 300 churches and chapels and beautiful monasteries. Take a drive up Mt Palouki to visit the monasteries high above Skopelos Town. Evangelistria founded in the 18th century is now occupied by nuns and boasts a 14th century gold alter screen while Metamorphosis is being renovated with just one monk in residence.

Another good trip is driving through the island’s central Mount Delfi (662m) home to the island’s honey bees. A dense forested mountain, with dirt tracks. Remember to book a 4x4 car!

In Skopelos itself, don’t miss a climb up to the ruins of the 13th century Venetian fortress.

Marrakech in Morocco was once an African trading crossroad, but it has become an exotic, buzzing city. Known as the Red City, it’s kept its ancient traditional charm while embracing all things hip and stylish whic might explain the buzz around those famous New Yorkers from Sex & the City!

What's not to love? There’s the sun, the 1001 nights atmosphere, the shopping and the excellent exotic food of course… but also gorgeous luxurious bars, restaurants and hotels to keep you busy.

The desert climate is lovely and warm, but be warned, July and August are just too hot to move. Try Spring and autumn for the best time, and in winter, the Marrakech International Film Festival draws in the A list crowd, but that does mean rather cool nights. If you plan to party, avoid Ramadan (dates change every year).

The food...

The city is jam-packed with restaurants, from street side stalls where you can sample anything from fresh orange juice to turtle soup for a few dirhams, or chic French and Moroccan fusion restaurants.

To rub shoulders with the local chic crowd, head to Villa Rosa, one of the city’s latest hip fine dining addresses with a theatrical red velvet décor and delicious menu that won’t break the bank. It’s the perfect place for a romantic gourmet meal, and we loved the light scallops in butter with a drop of local wine. It's so exclusive, rumour has it George Clooney had a birthday bash there.

For a gourmet rooftop meal, try Bab Firdaus, a swish riad where we found the city’s best traditional chicken Tagine. To really push the boat out, in a fairytale setting, book a table by the indoor pool at La Sultana, a legendary riad hidden in the Kasbah quarter where we highly recommend the indulgent fondant chocolate cake.

Fancy a drink?

A few years ago it was hard to get served alcohol in Marrakech but today it’s all about the partying. Grab a local ‘Casa’ beer with a view at Le Marrakchi on the Jema el Fnaa square or head out of town to the infamous Nikki Beach for a slice of St Tropez style bling. Why not nip into the Meridien N’Fis? The bar is another hotspot, where the legend says Colin Farrell racked up a $64,000 bar bill.

Stay in style....

To stay at the heart of the action, book a room in a gorgeous riad in the medina. They are all about stylish interiors and friendly service with welcoming staff who make these tiny oasis in the heart of the city feel just like home.

Out of town, at the Palmeraie there's a variety of resorts such as the very swish Murano Resort. All about cutting edge designer style, it has all the trimmings of a luxury resort including a cool bright red pool, gourmet restaurant and funky bar complete with live DJ. Even if you don’t stay, join in the hip Sunday brunches where all Marrakech’s jet set comes out to play.

All about shopping....

Shopaholics will love spending hours "lost" in the vibrant souks. The smells, sights and sheer bustle of life is intoxicating. Fortunately for visitors, touts and hassle have all but disappeared in the last decade.

Pick up anything from leather goods to Moroccan lanterns, sparkly ‘babouche’ slippers or spices, but remember haggling is expected, and time consuming! Keep smiling and take your time. Other great souvenirs are tea glasses, silk bedspreads and giant ceramic dishes. Out of town, follow Mohamed V avenue and Rue de la Liberté for big brand names like Zara but there’s no doubt the souk is more fun!

As for sightseeing...

The soul of Marrakech is its hectic 1000 year-old medina. Its narrow streets are a real maze awash with people, animals, bikes and the occasional car. Peer past the impressive ancient wooden doors into the ‘riads’ inner courtyards, a tiny oasis of fresh air amidst the constant noise. On Jemaa el Fna square join the crowds in front of snake charmers and story tellers which keep the city’s exotic vibe real.

To get away from it all, stroll through the Menara Gardens on the edge of the city amongst olive groves and roses, and catch Marrakech's most photographed landmark: the lake and pavilion built by Sultan Adur-Rahman. The French Majorelle Gardens are also a must, and further afield it’s worth heading to the lush green Ourika valley road which winds its way towards the Atlas Mountains leading to the seven waterfalls of Setti Fatma, one of country’s best kept secrets.

"We booked a holiday trip to Thailand through FCT in April this year. My wife and I had our flight from Bangkok back to Europe cancelled due to the volcano ash cloud and were offered a return flight only one month later : with 3 children waiting for us at home, we had to find a quicker, but yet reasonably priced way home. During this ordeal, FCT have been fantastic in helping us out, checking for a wide range of alternative return routes. They provided us with a quality of service that everyone should be entitled to but very rarely gets, especially at larger travel companies. We would definitely consider using FCT for our next trip abroad."

Alexis and Geraldine Bethenod

“Helen and I would like you to know how much we enjoyed the wonderful Baltic Cruise which you organized for us.

As you know, we first of all flew to Copenhagen and during the following week visited five different countries – and of course the highlight was the three days in St Petersburg. At the end of the week, we flew back from Stockholm. It was a brilliant idea to eliminate the journey backwards and forwards up the North Sea.

Our grateful thanks go to you and your staff at Full Circle Travel for all the care you took to make our trip a truly memorable experience.”

Mr. and Mrs. Upton

“I have been meaning to email you since we returned from our holiday at the Hilton in Dahab which you organised with my Wife for March 8-13th. It was a terrific holiday and stood up to everything which you said it would if not better.

I would be grateful if when you next get in touch with the hotel you could thank them on our behalf.

I know my wife will be coming to you when we next need a holiday.”

Mr. and Mrs. Nickson

“Thank you so much for all your help - you’ve been fantastic! I’ll let you know how we get on in Rome and I’m sure we’ll be coming to Full Circle Travel to arrange our next holiday. You really have taken all the stress out of the process!”

Mrs. Paskin

I just wanted to write you a quick note to say thank you so much for organising such a great trip to Rome for us. Everything was perfect!.........

I’ve been singing your praises to everyone I know and will be in touch the next time we are planning a holiday. We might take you up on your suggestion of Sicily next time.

Mrs. Paskin

“On behalf of the Mojacar Motorcycle Touring Club, i would like to thank you for the excellent service we received from you during the booking of the Hotel Castelo do Vide and the Hotel Monte da Liziria in Portugal. When we arrived at the hotels everything we expected was in place, the hosts being most helpful and kind at all times. This all contributed to a very successful tour.

This is the second time we have used your excellent services - if in the future we require reservations to be made for our group we will not hesitate to use your services again.”

Mojocar Motorcyle Touring Club

“I wanted to write to thank you and the team for being so helpful in finding and organising our cruise recently…..

I think I told you that many people had recommended a cruise as a suitable holiday choice for us given Sam’s difficulties after his recent illness; I could see the sense in that, but my numerous forays into the arcane world of internet cruise offers had left me confused, perplexed and more uncertain that I had been before I started. Had it been left to me, I don’t think we would have sailed anywhere!

Then I had the idea of contacting a local travel agent, your company featured on the website and suddenly all my troubles were over. You and your colleagues made choosing so much simpler, and your knowledge and expertise helped to make the decision-making process much, much easier for us.

Sam and I will always be grateful to you for everything you did and for your care and consideration – especially in respect of our particular requirements.

We will recommend you to everyone we know who might be struggling with holiday arrangements and we will certainly return for help ourselves in the future when we need more information or assistance in holiday planning”.

Mr. and Mrs Ankerson – Southern Caribbean cruise

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A newly opened resort that will change the way you view the Seychelles

Read more on The Constance Ephelia

Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay has been selected as the “World’s best Luxury Coastal Resort” by “World Luxury Hotel Awards”

We are not surprised! The resort is a fantastic, calm, beautiful space overlooking the turquoise blue Aegean sea.

Located out of town, 20 minute drive away from Bodrum, it has it all: a lovely beach, just a quick hop away by golf buggy, 3 huge pools, a beautiful ‘chill out’ zone with comfy sofas and beds, and a vast interior pool to keep you busy. Not to mention the brand new 5,500 square meter Six Senses spa complete with Turkish Hammam and juice bar.

There are also water sports like sailing, kayaking and even a diving school on the spot, while families will appreciate the kids all day club which even has mini-discos at night!

Everyone of the cool modern designer rooms has a sea view, lavish marble bathrooms and fabulously squashy feather duvets.

For a real treat, try La Luce restaurant with its sea view, cosy candlelight and ultra friendly service. The light beef Carpaccio and mushroom risotto washed down with cool Turkish rose ‘R’ are amazing !

The hotel also has a cabana style fish restaurant on its private beach, and lovely sushi at the sleek Asian fusion ‘Saigon’ as well as the most amazing breakfast buffet with everything from full English to pancakes, waffles, Turkish goodies, fruit of all kinds and a huge salad bar.

It's our kind of place!

6. Best for romance: Bahamas, Kamalame Cay
The 19-room private island hideaway just off Andros Island is typically Bahamian, from the charming pastel coloured cottages hidden in the lush palms to the warm family atmosphere. But luxury prevails throughout, and the biggest luxury is the 3 mile beach. White sands, palm trees and no one to be seen…

7. Best for eco-lovers: Descondisco, Cruz de Loreto, Mexico
A retreat unlike any other this eco-hideaway is totally disconnected from the rest of the world. No electricity means no TV, phones or power supplies for the dreaded laptops! Set in a wildlife sanctuary, the simple cabanas line up along the 40-mile beach where, at night, baby turtles strive to reach the might Pacific waves. Truly wonderful...

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company recently announced the opening of its debut Reserve property, Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, in Krabi, Southern Thailand.

As the world’s first Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Phulay Bay embodies the attributes, philosophy and unique style and design of the Reserve brand extension. It has been designed for those who seek to escape the stresses of everyday life and immerse themselves into a completely bespoke and personally-tailored-to-suit vacation experience.

Just the sort of thing we love at Full Circle Travel!

Set on the shores of the Andaman Sea, Phulay Bay is a striking 54-villa and pavilion boutique hotel offering unspoilt views of the naturally rugged shoreline and dramatic limestone karsts.

The resort is the vision and work of in-demand Thai architect Lek Bunnag, and is an awe-inspiring combination of modern styling and architecture; grand and oversized in scale with distinctive accents from not only Thai, but Middle Eastern and Moroccan cultures.

Guests subtly and gently have their senses enriched and stimulated with the resort’s own scent, signature drink, the stunning scenery from both inside the accommodation and throughout the resort, and tactile 100% Thai silk soft furnishings used in the villas and restaurants.

No two of the resort’s 16 signature Reserve Villas are the same; all slightly different in physical design and styling, guests can opt for a villa with lap pool and lawn area for sun worshiping, a private rooftop for alfresco dining and sunset viewing, or a completely secluded pool bathing area for total privacy.

Across all nonetheless, luxury prevails with oversized 3metre by 2metre beds, deep sunken baths, walk in closets, expansive decked gardens and vast ‘keyhole’ doorways that create a sense of magic setting the guest at ease and welcoming them to luxury.

With an emphasis on personalised, bespoke experiences, guests can ‘design’ or tailor make their visit to perfectly suit their needs and desires. Their very own villa butler, can organise a light BBQ lunch at a favourite beach spot; a meditation class with local monks; elephant trekking to a remote picnic spot; a sea plane tour of region’s dramatic scenery; an in-villa personal yoga session; a boat journey to surrounding islands - the possibilities are endless.

World-class culinary experiences will be available throughout the resort’s six intimate and carefully thought-out restaurants. Each designed to accommodate a small number of guests for highly personalised and non intrusive service. Chef will personally meet diners to better understand their tastes and preferences and all ingredients will be sourced from local markets and cooked fresh.

Included is the resort’s signature Thai restaurant, Sri Trang, a modern, and stylish restaurant with private dining room for 10 set on its own jetty overlooking the shoreline called ‘Sri Trang by the Sea’. Lae Lay, the resort’s sea front pavilion sits parallel to a 23metre infinity pool stretching out to the sea beyond. Beautifully appointed with oversized chairs and hanging lanterns among rustling trees, guests can also choose to dine under the stars on their own in a private sala seating up to 8 guests, aptly named ‘Lae Lay Under the Stars’.

An infinity pool bar will offer soft loungers and silk pillows by day with lighter more relaxed culinary offerings, while the resort’s sunset lounge, will offer day beds, oversized pillows, chill-out lounge bar music and candle lanterns for a truly intimate and relaxing feel. The perfect place for a glass of champagne or a stylish martini as the sun sets over the seemingly endless horizon.

RAW spa café prepares fresh, uncooked and unaltered vegan products and has a green hydroponic bar growing the resort’s own wheatgrass and lettuce.

The ESPA villa at Phulay Bay is a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation with stepping stones meandering through the spa leading to decked walkways and relaxation terraces surrounded by vegetation and reflection ponds that perfectly capture the unique character of Phulay Bay. The Spa itself comprises three traditional Thai pavilions set over two levels offering 11 treatment rooms including single and couples massage rooms and two VIP treatment suites with their own expansive decks for massage and showering.

5. Best for surfing: Santa Monica, California, USA
Make like Keanu and hit the Pacific Ocean’s best waves. Early birds should head to the legendary stretch of sea and sand wedged between Malibu and Venice Beach. Watch the body builders working out, take in the rollerblading beautiful people and hole up at Shutters on the Beach, a chic hideout with fantastic views. Live the Californian dream.

6. Best for siestas: Little Palm Island, Little Torch Key, Florida, USA
On arrival at the private island resort of Little Palm in the Florida Keys you’ll find a champagne hamper in your cottage. This is just one of the tiny touches that makes the island a special place. Take your fizzy bottle to the beach and enjoy a blissful sunny snooze. Little Palm is all about fantastic views, superbly friendly service and wild key deer that may come and give you a nuzzle to wake you up!

3. Best for gadgets: Las Ventanas, Los Cabos, Mexico
Madonna, Goldie Hawn and Jennifer Aniston have all take time out at this ultimate glam Mexican hideaway in Los Cabos. This is luxury at its best and that means that your wish is their desire. Take an ipod or even a LocationFree TV to one of the shaded hammocks on the beach or make the most of the free library, ice lollies and cooling Evian-mist sprays.

4. Best for celebrity spotting: The Guanahani, St Barts, French West Indies
There’s no place as hot on the celebrity scene as St Barts. A long time favourite with everyone from Mick Jagger to J.Lo; the tiny French island is a real must do for the jet-set. If you are into seeing stars and partial to a spot of wave-running then head to the Guanahani hotel’s pristine beach. One of Kate Moss’s haunts, the beach is also a favourite for fashion shoots. Cool Caribbean pastel cottages, gorgeous flora and picture perfect beach...

It’s all you ever dreamed of but where can you find the best in sea, salt and sand? Brochures are forever touting the perfect beach but we’ve hunted far and wide to see for ourselves…

Whether it’s your own private island in Thailand or the best beach service in Mexico complete with LocationFree TVs for catching the latest movies, or even a Caribbean snorkelling heaven: each beach comes with its very own speciality.

1. Best for privacy: Bon Island, Evason Resort, Phuket, Thailand
Sometimes you just want to be together with no one else to bother you. This may be a huge luxury but it’s part of the deal at the Evason Phuket in Thailand where the honeymoon suite is on its own island. Although the main beach is open to hotel guests, at night everyone goes home and you are master of the island… With your very own butler and chef of course!


2. Best for sunsets: Jumby Bay, Antigua, British West Indies
If you’re spending your romantic break in Antigua you’ll be spoilt for choice. Indeed the island’s claim to fame is that they have 365 beaches, or one to keep you busy every day of the year! At the all inclusive and luxurious Jumby Bay watching the sunset is an institution. Settle in for the show with a low chair in the surf, armed with a cocktail and watch as the striking orange and gold drama unfolds.

And for shopping?
Gustavia, the harbour capital of the island, is the place to shop on the tax free island. All the biggest brand names sit along Rue de la Republique with sleek and chic boutiques lining the waterfront. Hermes, Dior, Armani and Ralph Lauren all at 15% cheaper than US prices, ideal to pick up signature beach towels or a Cartier Tank watch, the essential accessories for the rich and glamorous. The story goes that the shops close when cruise ships send in dinghies full of hopeful shoppers though. Apparently they don’t want that type of clientele…

If you have a smaller budget opt for a St Barts souvenir t-shirts, baseball caps or canvas bag that proudly states: St Barts, French West Indies.

What about sight-seeing?
The first sight to take your breath away is the notorious landing strip. Pilots need a special license to touch down here, and should you ever visit you’ll know why! The arrival in an 8-seat propeller plane is awe-inspiring.

Next are the stunning beaches. The Anse de Grande Saline is a favourite. Its fine white sandy beach is set in an unspoilt and wild cove where the crystal clear turquoise waters are perfect for snorkelling.

To get from one beach to another it’s essential to have wheels. The car of choice here is the Jimny jeep that copes well with the hilly and bumpy terrain. No Ferraris on this volcanic island!

For a little more action try Jet Skiing. St Barts is one of the only Caribbean islands to condone the noisy toys alongside windsurfing, parasailing and yachting. If island fever grips you, charter a boat to take you across to St Maarten for a spot of shopping or gambling, or just drop into the beautiful La Samanna resort for lunch with a view and enjoy their glorious pool and beach.

Where should you stay?
The British run Isle de France hotel in the Anse des Flamands is a beautiful and friendly place to stay with a gorgeous Molton Brown Spa, cool pool, private beach and just 30 sleek all-white rooms, you might just be sharing the lobby with the likes of Mariah Carey and Puff Daddy.

If you prefer your own space, rent a villa. The perfect way to guaranteeing total privacy, Caribbean style homes on St Barts often come with a sundeck, dipping pool and Jacuzzi, hammock and stunning views over the coastline.

What about eating out?
You’ll be spoilt for choice! Food here is a serious matter and you can get almost anything you heart desires. The French influence is omnipresent and synonymous with gastronomic heaven.

The Guanahani’s Indigo restaurant has a mouth watering menu featuring delicious Mahi-Mahi with biting salsa or Sea Bass drizzled with truffle oil. A favourite with Kate Moss, the Guanahani also makes a mean Rum Planteur cocktail. Beware...

The Case de l’Isle restaurant has a great sea view and is also a gourmet dream come true. The pan-seared foie gras with apples is highly recommended while the lobster with ricotta raviolis is a real treat. Though islanders, and visitors alike, are nonplussed by famous faces, when Mick Jagger came over for dinner, the room did go very quiet…

For a more casual ambience try Do Brazil, French tennis champ, Yannick Noah’s restaurant where sipping Caipirinhas barefoot is 'de rigueur'. For late night partying with the in crowd head to Nikki Beach’s bar for its legendary parties or Le Ti St Barts, famous for its long nights dancing on the tables.

St Barts has been dubbed the St Tropez of the Caribbean. The tiny 8 square mile French run island is a celebrity haven that blends sophistication and elegance with the laid-back Caribbean vibe. The entire island is picture perfect with glorious beaches and bougainvillea aplenty.

After being discovered by Columbus in 1493, this piece of paradise was swapped between Sweden and France until it finally became part of the French West Indies in 1877 for good. It wasn’t until Rockefeller purchased a piece of the island in the late 50’s that it became a playground for the rich and famous. Today, it’s a firm favourite with the A’list thanks to its good looks, laid-back charm and more than a touch of class!

Why go?
The main reason to visit St Barts is that there isn’t one. There is nothing to do on the island apart from relax and enjoy the 22 fantastic beaches and 100 or so restaurants. It’s all about slow living, getting a tan and sampling some gourmet food. And, since St Barts is crime free you’ll have no keys, no doors to lock and no worries. It’s literally a safe haven in the West Indies.

When should you go?
The Christmas ‘season’ is the best time to go for mingling with the stars like J Lo, Uma Thurman, but be warned - the traffic and prices peak. The weather is fantastic all year round, aside from September when it’s officially hurricane season. Mid August is the live music festival organised by Boubou, Yannick Noah’s partner in crime. Join in impromptu jamming sessions with the likes of Manu Dibango and The Christians.

KAMALAME CAY, BAHAMAS: Cool and relaxed

The first over-water spa in the Bahamas! Kamalame Cay is a tiny 19-room private island hideaway just off Andros Island. Charming pastel coloured cottages hide in the lush palms and luxury prevails: stone features, exotic wooden furniture and huge baths. The views through the muslin-draped French doors are entirely exotic stretching as far as the barrier reef.

The 2,000-square-foot Spa is simply amazing. Sitting over the turquoise waters, the two-story wooden construction is reminiscent of Bali’s finest. A pier leads to five treatment rooms where grand floor to ceiling window open up onto the sea. The real meaning to the word ‘bay windows’! The mix of textures is ideal: thick luxurious cottons, wood and mother of pearl encrusted mirrors. And forget having a sea-sounds tape running in the background, you can hear the soothing rush through the floorboards and all around. The spa is all about indulgence. You can arrange for champagne lunches on the veranda, or simply go for an al fresco yoga session.

The local products are all natural scrubs and oils made by Biotropica for an authentic island experience. Try the one hour Bahamian Boreh, a twist on the traditional Balinese treatment the massage increases circulation and soothes muscles, as well as exfoliating skin. For a little fruit, pick the Kamalame Coconut Body Glow for Sensitive Skin which uses freshly shredded young coconut in a gentle body scrub. And fishing fans aren’t forgotten: the fisherman’s friend massage looks after your neck, shoulders and arms, while the Fishing Widow’s Revenge is a full day five treatment package with lunch included to keep you out of trouble while he goes bone-fishing.

Welcome to our bookshelf. Here you will find past editions of our 'Inner Circle Magazine' along with destination and experience specific publications.

Following on with our Caribbean spa tour...

CARLISLE BAY ANTIGUA:

The Blue Spa: ‘Smooth & Sexy’


Carlisle Bay is the leader in a new breed of Caribbean hideaways. With an ultra modern designer setting, as opposed to the traditional Caribbean style, it brings a hint of London to the beach. Suave and sophisticated, Carlisle Bay juggles local influences with Asian and European. The food is extraordinary and service, pristine. Huge bedrooms with sea views come with double bathtubs and extravagant colourful outdoor daybeds with billowing curtains on the balcony to keep privacy.

The 17,000 square foot Blue Spa is in keeping with the resort’s sleek style. There’s a contemporary James Bond feel to the two-storey pavilion, designed by guru Mary Fox Linton, in shades of grey. So it’s no surprise all treatment include a ‘For your eyes only’ energizing treatment! Aromatherapy Associates Products used here are 100% pure and natural plant oil without any mineral oils, GM products or animal ingredients - save for beeswax...

Try the Tropical Fruit Scrub using fresh Antiguan grown pineapples, mangoes and papayas or take a yoga class in the open air pavilion. Totally tropical!

Call free on 0800 048 8772 for more information.

PETER ISLAND, BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS: Sea & Self

Peter Island is a private resort, set in the unspoilt paradise of the British Virgin Islands. The rough coastline with its pristine white palm fringed sandy beaches oozes barefoot luxury: sea, sun, sand and solitude.

It’s definitely worth a visit for the spa and snorkelling alone! The area is dotted with protected dive sites and recognised as one of the world’s best, even the island’s very own Deadman’s beach is teaming with colourful marine life.

The 10,000 square foot Spa at Peter Island is set over 5 acres with 10 indoor treatment rooms, 2 outdoor thatched bohios, private steam rooms, a salon, a spa café, a large pool, paradise-like landscaped gardens, a half mile beach and the most spectacular views along Big Reef Bay. Everywhere you turn fresh exotic blooms remind you of your Caribbean surrounding,

Pick a West Indian Honey & Sesame Seed Glow to exfoliate and moisturize; a Tropical Lime & Ginger Buff with local island salt and lemongrass or a deliciously fragrant Caribbean Coffee Polish mixing finely ground Caribbean coffee, vanilla and spice oil! And if you prefer a spot of DIY, try the Thalasso Mud Bowls Alfresco where you become the therapist. Take the mineral rich Thalasso Mud down to the beach and have your own private mud scrub!

Call free on 0800 048 8772 for more information.