Nirwana Gardens - Nirwana Beach Club

The Nirwana Beach Club Cabana Resort is located in Bintan Island (Indonesia) making it one of the best hotels to stay at while in town. The 50 guestrooms at this 4-star hotel provide all the essential amenities needed by the business and leisure traveler. Each guestroom features amenities such as air conditioning, internet access (wireless), television, shower, separate shower and tub, balcony/terrace. To suit guests' convenience, this Bintan Island (Indonesia) accommodation offers coffee shop, bar/pub, meeting facilities, nightclub, restaurant, room service. The hotel offers massage, gym, spa, water sports (motorized), water sports (non-motorized), outdoor pool, garden to provide extra pleasure and relaxation for all guests. Modern comfort and convenience are seamlessly combined to ensure the guests' satisfaction. To reserve a room at the Nirwana Beach Club Cabana Resort, simply select your dates of stay and fill in our secure online booking form.
  
Hotel Features
General
Room Service, Air Conditioned, Refrigerator, TV, Shower, Coffee Shop/Cafeteria
Activities
Fitness Room/Gym, Swimming pool, Tour Desk, Massage / Beauty Centre, Private beach, Excursions, Garden, Beach (Direct Access), Boating, Windsurfing, Nightclubs, Water Activities, Billiards, Fishing, Bowling Alley, Canoeing, Water-skiing, Fitness Facilities, Massage, Spa & Wellness Centre, Pool Outdoor, Disco
Services
Concierge, 24 Hour Reception, Currency Exchange, Multilingual Staff, Safe-Deposit Box, Meeting Rooms, Laundry service, Bicycle Rental, Shops, Souvenirs/Gift Shop
Internet
High-speed Internet is available at this hotel. Wireless internet on site.
Parking
The hotel has free parking.
Check-in
From 3:00 PM
Check-out
Prior to 12:00 PM

Nirwana Gardens - Nirwana Beach Club
Location Jl Panglima Pantar Lagoi Bintan Resorts, Bintan, Indonesia 
More information click here

Ria Bintan Golf Lodge

Ria Bintan Golf Club is a 27-hole championship course designed by world-celebrated golfing legend, Gary Player. Set amidst lush landscapes and natural surroundings, golf enthusiasts will appreciate the award winning 18-hole Ocean Course and the 9-hole Forest course, both of which presents hours of fun and challenge. One of Asia's best established and leading courses, Ria Bintan Golf Club has consistently been named the best golf course in Asia and Indonesia. It is the first in Indonesia to achieve the highly Acclaimed Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program certification from world-renowned green champion, Audubon International, for its leadership, commitment and high standards of environmental management. Living up to its immaculate reputation of a world-class golfing resort destination, the Ria Golf Lodge offers a memorable stay for those seeking the perfect golf vacation. Featuring 31 modern rooms, guests can soak in the picturesque view of the greens set against the backdrop of the majestic South China Sea.
  
Hotel Features
General Room Service, Restaurant, Bar / Lounge, Air Conditioned, Non-Smoking Rooms, Cable / Satellite TV, Hair Dryer, TV, Shower, En suite, Private Bathroom, Private Toilet, Vending Machines
Activities Swimming pool, Tour Desk, Massage / Beauty Centre, Golf Course, Bath / Hot Tub, Excursions, Garden, Golf Course (on site), Karaoke, Billiards, Jacuzzi, Massage, Spa & Wellness Centre, Pool Indoor
Services Concierge, Elevator / Lift, Banquet Facilities, Conference Room(s), Safe-Deposit Box, Meeting Rooms, Shops, Desk, Direct dial phone, Ballroom, Designated Smoking Area, Shops in Hotel, Souvenirs/Gift Shop
Internet High-speed Internet is available at this hotel. Wireless internet on site.
Parking Parking is available. There is an airport shuttle that runs from the hotel.
Check-in From 2:00 PM
Check-out Prior to 12:00 PM

Ria Bintan Golf Lodge
Location Jl. Perigi Land Parcel A11, Riau, Bintan, Indonesia 
More information click here

Bintan Lagoon Resort

Bintan Lagoon Resort is set amongst more than 300 hectares of beachfront gardens in one of the most picturesque spots of Bintan. Ideally situated just 55 minutes by high speed ferry from Singapore, the resort overlooks the South China Sea and archipelago of the Riau islands. Sparkling azure waters, gently swaying palm trees, sugar fine white and warm personable service complete the picture postcard of Bintan Lagoon Resort.

This deluxe resort has 470 spacious deluxe rooms, suites and villas including an impressive range of 12 dining options and 10 function rooms that can be transformed to a wide range of themes to create a perfect event. It is renowned for its two 18-hole golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Ian Baker-Finch as well as a wide range of recreational activities including sea sports, a spa centre and Bintan’s first island party club, Silk.

RESTAURANTS
KOPI-O
Overlooking a cascading pool and waterfall, the restaurant offers buffet and a la carte dining breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring authentic Asian and Western specialties created with the freshest seasonal ingredients. Evening buffets are based on a different theme each day.

MIYAKO JAPANESE RESTUARANT
Superb authentic Japanese cuisine served in Zen surrounds. Besides the enormous menu featuring sashimi, donmono, tempura, teppanyaki and everything in between, highly recommended are the bento boxes offering a little taste of a wide variety of seasonal specialties.

NELAYAN GRILL
Nelayan offers ‘surf and turf’ barbeque with the fresh catch of the day and prime cuts of meat served in a casual atmosphere. Choose to dine in air-conditioned comfort or al fresco under the stars.

ORZO RESTAURANT
Enjoy mouthwatering Mediterranean delights; from traditional favorites such as wood fired pizzas and pasta through to contemporary southern European dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.

CAFES
HASKELL'S
Located at the golf club house, adjacent to the lobby, Haskell’s has fresh gourmet sandwiches, pastries and snacks available all day. Overlooking the rolling fairways of the Jack Nicklaus Sea View course, it’s a great spot for a drink and those 'almost hole in one' tales.

VERANDAH
Relaxed pool side dining adjacent to the Leisure Center– ideal for a fresh tropical juice cocktail, salad, burger or perhaps one of the famous foot long super hot dogs.
RIPPLES BY THE POOL
Swim up to the bar or simply laze by the pool with a dish or a drink from an extensive range of light snacks, meals and drinks served throughout the day.

HORIZONS CAFE
Located within the impressive lobby area, the Lounge is open from early to late, serving gourmet coffee and tea, cakes, pastries, sandwiches, beer, cocktails and other snacks. Informal and friendly, it’s an ideal place to capture scenic ocean views, relax with a magazine, meet at the end of the day or the beginning of your evening.

BARS
PASIR PANJANG BEACH BAR
For those relaxing on the beach, this bar offers casual meals such as designer pizzas, local specialties and snacks – perfect with an ice cold beer or margarita.

THE TERRACE
Recently opened on the lobby level with indoor and outdoor seating, the new Terrace Lounge features a sumptuous snack menu, excellent wines, a broad selection of cigars and a breathtaking ocean view. It is a wonderful chill-out spot to meet with friends after a day out in the sun.

KARAOKE LOUNGE
Equipped with state of the art sound system and an impressive collection of songs, there are also six party rooms for those who prefer to sing amongst friends.

SILK
Opened in September 2006, Silk is Bintan's new urbane nocturnal playground – a hybrid of club, disco, live venue and lounge - providing the hottest sounds and smooth, silky concoctions from trendy mixes to classic cocktails. Live entertainment nightly is available except Monday. A SILK bus transfers guests from other hotels nearby.

Hotel Features
General
Room Service, Restaurant, Disabled Access, Bar / Lounge, Air Conditioned, Non-Smoking Rooms, Mini Bar, Refrigerator, Cable / Satellite TV, Coffee / Tea Maker, Hair Dryer, Complimentary Toiletries, TV, Wheel Chair Access, Bathrobes, Shower, En suite, Kids Club, Cots, Poolside Bar, Coffee Shop/Cafeteria, Picnic Area/Tables, Smoking Room, Family Room
Activities
Fitness Room/Gym, Swimming pool, Tour Desk, Massage / Beauty Centre, Tennis Courts, Golf Course, Medical Assistance Available, Sauna, Private beach, Spa bath / Jacuzzi, Excursions, Garden, Beach (Direct Access), Jet-Ski, Scuba Diving, Windsurfing, Cycling, Nightclubs, Water Activities, Billiards, Dart Board, Fishing, Golf (miniature), Playground, Volleyball, Tennis Courts (outdoor), Canoeing, Hiking, Beach Soccer and Volleyball, Salon, Fitness Facilities, Jacuzzi, Massage, Solarium, Spa & Wellness Centre, Steam Bath, Beauty Salon, Child Pool, Pool Outdoor, Games Available, Disco, Doctor on call
Services
Business Center, Concierge, Elevator / Lift, 24 Hour Reception, Babysitting / Child Services, Banquet Facilities, Conference Room(s), Currency Exchange, Multilingual Staff, Safe-Deposit Box, ATM / Cash Machine, Wake-up Service, Meeting Rooms, Laundry service, Bicycle Rental, Shops, Computer, Desk, Direct dial phone, Ballroom, Function Rooms, Designated Smoking Area, Shops in Hotel, Souvenirs/Gift Shop
Internet
High-speed Internet is available at this hotel. Wireless internet on site.
Parking
The hotel has free parking.
Check-in
From 3:00 PM
Check-out
Prior to 12:00 PM

Bintan Lagoon Resort 
Location Jalan Indera Segara, Bintan Utara, Lagoi, Riau, Bintan, Indonesia 
More Information click here

Perfect Summer Lake Towns part 6

Bemidji, Minnesota, on Lake Bemidji


Bemidji, Minnesota, on Lake Bemidji
The Minnesota town of Bemidji best captures the Norman Rockwell glow of a summer lake town, with clean beaches, quirky annual traditions, and a packed social calendar.
Courtesy of Pete Markham/Flickr
 
Bemidji best captures the Norman Rockwell glow of a summer lake town, with clean beaches, quirky annual traditions, and a packed social calendar. Its Fourth of July and county fair are pure Americana, while the Dragon Boat Festival and its competitive racing crews channel a Minnesota-style Mardi Gras from August 1 to 6. Book an afternoon with one of the guides at Tomahawk Lodges to fish for walleye, a flaky white fish that does nicely on the grill (800/452-8023, call for price estimates).

Where to Refuel: Minnesota Nice CafĂ© is a sure bet for Midwestern favorites like potato pancakes with applesauce. Don't miss the freshly baked apple pies—they taste like they come straight from a county fair. 414 Beltrami Ave. NW, 218/444-6656.

continue

Great American Beach Towns part 10

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Photo: Alamy

The sand: Four miles of Pacific Northwest grandeur, with towering rocks, tidal pools, forests, and waterfalls, all connected by soft stretches of sand.

Marine life: Picket fences, surf shops, and glassworks boutiques have helped tame Cannon Beach, a town of 1,700 artsy and outdoorsy souls 80 miles west of Portland, into a perfectly stroll-worthy seaside escape. But its wild side still rules: Born of volcanoes and still constantly smashed by the sea, the Oregon outpost overspills with fascinating formations, from the 235-foot basalt Haystack Rock and the forest-shrouded waves of Indian Beach to calmer spots at Arcadia Beach and the Tolovana Wayside. All but the most adventuresome (and wet suit–clad) will want to look, but not touch, as the tides can be deadly and the water rarely rises above 60 degrees. But you'll find plenty of gentle warmth in the surrounding community, which celebrates Sandcastle Days in June. At the Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge, you can feast on Dungeness crab and sip an Oregon pinot noir while gazing at Haystack and all those crashing waves.

The sanctuary: Views from the 45 rooms at the stone-and-timber Ocean Lodge will blow your socks off; luckily, the place is pet-friendly, so Fido can go fetch 'em.

Ocean Lodge
Tel: 503 436 2241 - Doubles from $229

Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge
Tel: 503 436 1108 

Sun Island Resort

The Sun Island Resort & Spa is perfectly located for both business and leisure guests to Maldives. This 5-star hotel offers 426 guestrooms, each presenting guests with all the comforts expected from a hotel in its class. Room amenities include internet access – LAN, television LCD/plasma screen, in room safe. Guests staying at this Maldives accommodation can enjoy a wide range of hotel facilities such as meeting facilities, shops, nightclub, restaurant. For a more enjoyable stay, guests can take advantage of a variety of recreational facilities, including sauna, massage, gym. The hotel creates a balance of rich culture and modern convinience to ensure you a memorable stay. Make your reservation at the Sun Island Resort & Spa Maldives now by selecting your chosen dates of stay and submitting our secure online booking form.
  
Hotel Features
General
Room Service, Restaurant, Bar / Lounge, Air Conditioned, Non-Smoking Rooms, Mini Bar, Cable / Satellite TV, Coffee / Tea Maker, Hair Dryer, TV, Shower, En suite, Poolside Bar, Packed Lunches
Activities
Fitness Room/Gym, Swimming pool, Tour Desk, Massage / Beauty Centre, Tennis Courts, Golf Course, Sauna, Private beach, Excursions, Garden, Squash Courts, Beach (Direct Access), Windsurfing, Cycling, Water Activities, Dart Board, Fishing, Golf (miniature), Canoeing, Salon, Fitness Facilities, Jacuzzi, Steam Room, Massage, Child Pool, Pool Outdoor, Games Available
Services
Business Center, Dry Cleaning, Banquet Facilities, Conference Room(s), Currency Exchange, Safe-Deposit Box, Meeting Rooms, Laundry service, Bicycle Rental, Shops, Photocopier, Facsimile, Shops in Hotel, Souvenirs/Gift Shop
Internet
High-speed Internet is available at this hotel. Wireless internet on site.
Parking
There is an airport shuttle that runs from the hotel.
Check-in
From 1:00 PM
Check-out
Prior to 12:00 PM

Sun Island Resort 
Location Nalaguraidhoo, South Ari Atoll, Maldives
More information click here

Jumeirah Vittaveli

At Jumeirah Vittaveli, escape to an idyllic world where spectacular beauty fuses with blissful comfort. An unspoilt island resort beckons in the heart of the Indian Ocean. Lose yourself in a pure horizon, where the calm breeze whispers notes of serenity beside the iridescent water and vast stretches of pristine sand. Like the archipelago of islands that it belongs to, a constellation of treasures awaits leisure travellers who share a passion for luxury experiences. Unforgettable experiences are the result of this perfect blend of spectacular beauty and gracious hospitality, where guests capture the essence of opulence in its most essential form. Impeccable choice, seamless service and unadulterated pleasure shape the character of this resort paradise, where every detail has been meticulously crafted to inspire journeys of discovery and enjoyment. Informal yet elegant, with the perfect touch to fulfill every need, Jumeirah Vittaveli is a magical island escape that indulges and delights. Whether you dream of romantic togetherness or long to revel in playful leisure, an abundance of unparalleled choice, comfort and pleasure sets the stage for the freedom that Jumeirah Vittaveli unveils.
  
Hotel Features
General
Room Service, Restaurant, Air Conditioned, Non-Smoking Rooms, Mini Bar, Refrigerator, Cable / Satellite TV, In Room Movies, Coffee / Tea Maker, Hair Dryer, TV, CD Player, DVD Player, Bathrobes, Shower, Kids Club, Packed Lunches, Breakfast in the Room, Family Room
Activities
Fitness Room/Gym, Swimming pool, Massage / Beauty Centre, Sauna, Private beach, Garden, Windsurfing, Water Activities, Fishing, Playground, Fitness Facilities, Steam Room, Massage, Spa & Wellness Centre, Child Pool, Pool Outdoor, Games Available
Services
Business Center, Concierge, Dry Cleaning, Babysitting / Child Services, Housekeeping, Currency Exchange, News Stand, Wake-up Service, Laundry service, Photocopier, Desk, Facsimile, Luggage Storage, Designated Smoking Area, Express Check-In/Check-Out, Shoe Shine
Internet
High-speed Internet is available at this hotel. Wireless internet on site.
Check-in
From 3:00 PM
Check-out
Prior to 12:00 PM

Jumeirah Vittaveli 
Location South Male Atoll, South Ari Atoll, Maldives
More information click here

Seven Sensational Scenic Drives for Autumn part 4

Amish Country Byway (Ohio)

Leonardo's 'Golden Horn' Bridge, Aas (near Oslo), Norway
Amish Country Byway
Courtesy of Holmes County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau
 
Drive: In the rolling hills between Columbus and Cleveland lies the Amish Country Byway, a network of country roads lined with thick forests and scenic farms with bright red barns. The clip-clop rhythm of horses and buggies on rolling hills takes you back to a time when life was less complicated and less expensive, and stores closed on Sundays.

Stop: Take a horse-drawn wagon ride, tour Amish barns and houses, and feed the animals at the Farm at Walnut Creek. Many of Amish Country's cheesemakers, including Heini's Cheese Chalet, welcome visitors to watch the process and sample more than 50 fresh-made varieties. Find out the why behind the simple ways at Behalt Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center.

Stay: Keep it simple with a stay at an Ohio State Park Lodge. In a river valley at the west end of the Amish Country Byway, the Mohican State Park Lodge has newly renovated guest rooms with private balconies. Packages here and at the state's seven other lodges can be as low as $109 per night in October.

World's Most Beautiful Ferry Rides part 4

Chile: Patagonian Fjords between Puerto Montt and Puerto Natales

Chile: Patagonian Fjords between Puerto Montt and Puerto Natales
Chile: Patagonian Fjords between Puerto Montt and Puerto Natales
Courtesy of Amalia Glaciaer - Patagonia Fjords Route of Navimag Ferries

This epic ferry ride spans 800 miles over four days, treating passengers to views of isolated estuaries and gulfs, tiny cypress- and lenga beech–covered islands, massive ice fields, and fjords slashed into the Andes. The boat even approaches the dramatic face of PĂ­o XI or BrĂĽggen Glacier, which, at 488 square miles, is the largest glacier in South America. Toast your adventure with pisco sours made with iceberg ice the crew collects from PĂ­o XI. 

Places that are Cheap Now part 4

Aspen, CO

Aspen's reputation as a high-end ski destination means warm-weather travelers can find great discounts. Hotwire's Year-Over-Year analysis shows that average hotel rates have dropped 12 percent since last summer while airfare has experienced a four-percent dip. And the best of the Rockies -- outdoor activities like hiking and biking -- won't cost you a penny. For those of you planning a September trip, make sure to pack your camera: This is when the region's numerous aspen trees don their golden autumn foliage.

For more savings… Opt for a seat at the bar rather than a table in the restaurant. Many restaurants in Aspen offer discounted lunch and dinner menus at the bar. Sure, the choices may be more limited than in the dining room, but it's all coming from the same kitchen. 

Holiday Island Resort & Spa

Royal Island Resort and Spa - located 118 km north -30 minutes by seaplane- of Male- International Airport on the north-eastern fringe of Baa Atoll is the fifth and the latest creation of villa hotels in it is pursuit to create the perfect holiday destination.

The Island covers and areas of 800 meters in length and 220 meters width which has 148 beachfront villas with private wooden interior and terraces facing the white sandy beach and crystal clear lagoon designed for ultra comfort. The 2 Presidential Suites come with 2 spacious bedrooms fully-furnished kitchen a private swimming pool and Jacuzzi with other modern amenities for ultra comfort.

The name -Royal Island- is the combined results of the luxury of the resort plus the proud long history and the fact that the great hero of all time Boduthakurufaan-s grandmother has been buried here on this island. The remnants of the rich historical heritage of Royal Island are in our best interest to save and to preserve for the generations to come. Every effort is being made to sustain the natural beauty of the island undisturbed.
  
Hotel Features
General
Room Service, Restaurant, Air Conditioned, Non-Smoking Rooms, Mini Bar, Cable / Satellite TV, Connecting Rooms, Coffee / Tea Maker, Hair Dryer, TV, Shower, En suite, Private Bathroom, Bidet, Cots
Activities
Fitness Room/Gym, Swimming pool, Tour Desk, Massage / Beauty Centre, Tennis Courts, Medical Assistance Available, Sauna, Private beach, Excursions, Garden, Beach (Direct Access), Windsurfing, Water Activities, Billiards, Dart Board, Fishing, Canoeing, Fitness Facilities, Jacuzzi, Steam Room, Massage, Doctor on call
Services
Concierge, 24 Hour Reception, Housekeeping, Currency Exchange, Safe-Deposit Box, News Stand, Wake-up Service, Laundry service, Shops, Photocopier, Desk, Direct dial phone, Facsimile, Shops in Hotel, Souvenirs/Gift Shop
Internet
High-speed Internet is available at this hotel.
Parking
There is an airport shuttle that runs from the hotel.
Check-in
From 9:00 AM
Check-out
Prior to 8:00 AM

Holiday Island Resort & Spa 
Location Dhiffushi Island, South Ari Atoll, Maldives
More information click here

Diamonds Thudufushi Beach & Water Villas

Location.
Diamonds Thudufushi Beach & Water Villas is located in Thudufushi Island's South Ari Atoll neighborhood.

Hotel Features.
Dining options at Diamonds Thudufushi Beach & Water Villas include 2 restaurants. This 4 star property has a business center. Additional property amenities include a library and shopping on site.

Guestrooms.
Air conditioned guestrooms at Diamonds Thudufushi Beach & Water Villas feature iPod docking stations and minibars. In addition to safes, guestrooms offer phones. Also included are coffee/tea makers and ceiling fans.
  
Hotel Features
General
Room Service, Air Conditioned, Non-Smoking Rooms, Mini Bar, In Room Movies, Coffee / Tea Maker, Hair Dryer, TV, CD Player, DVD Player, Bathrobes, Shower
Activities
Tour Desk, Excursions
Services
Business Center, Concierge, Dry Cleaning, Safe-Deposit Box, Laundry service, Shops, Desk, Shops in Hotel
Internet
High-speed Internet is available at this hotel. Wireless internet on site.
Parking
There is an airport shuttle that runs from the hotel.
Check-in
From 2:00 PM
Check-out
Prior to 12:00 PM

Diamonds Thudufushi Beach & Water Villas 
Location Thudufushi Island, South Ari Atoll, Maldives
More information click here

New Earthly Wonders part 4

Wadi Rum Protected Area (Jordan)

Wadi Rum Protected Area (Jordan)
The majestic Wadi Rum—the largest desert valley in Jordan—was the famous stomping ground of the real-life Lawrence of Arabia.
Courtesy of Michael Runkel/SuperStock

The majestic Wadi Rum—the largest desert valley in Jordan—was the famous stomping ground of the real-life Lawrence of Arabia. The Wadi Rum covers 286 square miles in the southern part of the country and is notable both for its natural and cultural wonders. In addition to photo-perfect desert landscapes marked by caverns, narrow gorges and massive cliffs, there is evidence of 12,000 years of human habitation here. Petroglyphs, archaeological remains, 20,000 inscriptions and 25,000 rock carvings offer insight into the lives the early residents of Wadi Rum. 

The World's Most Beautiful Rivers part 4

Yangtze River, China

Yangtze River, China
Yangtze River, China
Courtesy of Forbes Images

The Yangtze is the longest river in Asia, providing a striking array of opportunities to explore Chinese life and the culture that sprouts along its banks. This is another river on which it pays to travel by boat cruise. Many of the cruises tend to be shorter than a week, but are guaranteed to provide access to some of the best rural Chinese experiences you can find..

“You see the Three Gorges Dam construction site, the gorgeous scenery and mountains, and the impressive pagodas along the river banks,” says Heidi Sarna, a Frommer’s contributor. “With all the changes going on, it will be a completely different place in ten years, so see it now.” 

Mirihi Island Resort

Welcome to Mirihi Island Resort. The term "Mirihi" refers to the small exquisite yellow flowers found around this beautiful island. According to local folklore, the flowers can be used to "take away the poison". Mirihi Island Resort is located on a secluded tropical island in the South Ari Atoll, approximately 85 kilometres south of the capital Male'. A picturesque and breathtaking 30 minute seaplane ride from Male will bring you here. This emerald gem is just 350 meters long and 50 meters wide with a sparkling palm-fringed beach of fine white sand. Walk barefoot if you choose, this is as close to nature as you can get. Blessed with white talc beaches, turquoise blue waters and one of the most amazing house-reefs, it is truly a vision of paradise on earth. Just offering 6 beachvillas and 30 watervillas, you can enjoy real privacy. All Villas are equally designed, featuring designer furnishing, polished wooden floors, king size or twin beds, air conditioning, ceiling fan, sitting area with CD stereo system and fully stocked minibar, Coffee and Espresso maker, IDD telephone and personal safe. 

The Water Villas will spoil you with a spacious, luxurious en-suite bathroom, overlooking the ocean through two large sliding glass doors. Step outside on the private deck and relax, as each balcony has been designed to guarantee complete privacy. Each Water Villa also offers steps from the balcony for direct accesses to the Ocean, as well as a fresh water shower at the staircase. The Beach Villas offer an oversized open-air bathroom with a luxurious fresh water shower as well as direct access to the beach. From buffets, world-class a la carte restaurant and the bar to intimate private dining anywhere on the island, Mirihi offers a wide variety of superb cuisine to satisfy every appetite and occasion. Although the main reason for coming to Mirihi is undoubtedly to kick off your shoes and do absolutely nothing but relax and revel in natures delights, there are a host of other activities on offer for you to try, like diving, snorkeling, various excursions and a relaxing massage. Seaplane transfer from Male to the resort and back is mandatory. Price for return transfer until 31.10.12: 381.60$ per person Business hours of reception:
Every day: from 00:00 to 00:00
  
Hotel Features
General
Room Service, Restaurant, Bar / Lounge, Air Conditioned, Non-Smoking Rooms, Mini Bar, Coffee / Tea Maker, Hair Dryer, TV, CD Player, Bathrobes, Shower, En suite, Private Bathroom, Breakfast in the Room
Activities
Fitness Room/Gym, Tour Desk, Massage / Beauty Centre, Private beach, Excursions, Garden, Beach (Direct Access), Windsurfing, Water Activities, Dart Board, Fishing, Canoeing, Fitness Facilities, Massage
Services
Concierge, 24 Hour Reception, Currency Exchange, Multilingual Staff, Security Guard, Laundry service, Shops, Desk, Direct dial phone, Souvenirs/Gift Shop
Internet
High-speed Internet is available at this hotel. Wireless internet on site.
Parking
There is an airport shuttle that runs from the hotel.
Check-in
From 2:00 PM
Check-out
Prior to 11:00 AM

Mirihi Island Resort 
Location  South Ari Atoll, South Ari Atoll, Maldives
More information click here

Diva Maldives

Dhidhoofinolhu is one of the largest islands in the Maldives, 1.8 kilometres long and 200 metres wide. A real haven of tranquillity, with lush tropical vegetation running alongside 4 kilometres of white sandy beaches. The island is surrounded by a magnificent, sheltered lagoon, featuring a rich animated marine life, particularly with the fascinating ballet of manta rays and colourful tropical fish. At the heart of this beautiful setting, Naiade has created the latest jewel in its collection: LUX* Maldives, a masterpiece, a showcase, ombining the natural beauty of Maldives and a tropical outdoor style of life, close to nature, with refined luxury and elegance. LUX* Maldives has become a flagship supporter of the recently designated FenMaaDhiguRan, the Maldives’ first fully regulated, and largest, Marine Protected Area (MPA) – home to a globally significant population of whale sharks, not to mention some of the worlds finest dive sites. The first resort located within the Marine Protected Area to commit to backing the pioneering conservation project with fundraising initiatives, Diva Maldives has introduced a voluntary gratuity charge scheme enabling guests to actively contribute to the conservation of the whale sharks and their habitat. Business hours of reception:
Every day: from 00:00 to 00:00
  
Hotel Features
General
Room Service, Restaurant, Bar / Lounge, Air Conditioned, Non-Smoking Rooms, Mini Bar, Cable / Satellite TV, In Room Movies, Coffee / Tea Maker, Hair Dryer, TV, DVD Player, Bathrobes, Shower, En suite, Private Bathroom, Spa/Jetted Tub, Kids Club, Poolside Bar, Packed Lunches
Activities
Fitness Room/Gym, Swimming pool, Tour Desk, Massage / Beauty Centre, Tennis Courts, Medical Assistance Available, Sauna, Private beach, Spa bath / Jacuzzi, Excursions, Garden, Beach (Direct Access), Boating, Windsurfing, Cycling, Karaoke, Nightclubs, Water Activities, Billiards, Dart Board, Fishing, Playground, Animal Watching, Canoeing, Kayaking, Salon, Fitness Facilities, Steam Room, Massage, Spa & Wellness Centre, Barber/Beauty Shop, Beauty Salon, Pool Indoor, Pool Outdoor, Games Available, Doctor on call
Services
Business Center, Concierge, 24 Hour Reception, Dry Cleaning, Babysitting / Child Services, Banquet Facilities, Conference Room(s), Currency Exchange, Multilingual Staff, Safe-Deposit Box, Security Guard, Porters, Wake-up Service, Meeting Rooms, Laundry service, Bicycle Rental, Shops, Desk, Direct dial phone, Supervised child care/activities, Shops in Hotel, Souvenirs/Gift Shop, Shoe Shine
Internet
High-speed Internet is available at this hotel. Wireless internet on site.
Parking
There is an airport shuttle that runs from the hotel.
Check-in
From 2:00 PM
Check-out
Prior to 11:00 AM

Diva Maldives 
Location Dhidhoofinolhu, South Ari Atoll, Maldives
More information click here

World's Most Spectacular Pedestrian Bridges part 4

Puente de la Mujer, Buenos Aires

Puente de la Mujer, Buenos Aires
Puente de la Mujer, Buenos Aires
Photo by: Agustina Prats

Architect Santiago Calatrava's "Woman's Bridge" on the Rio de la Plata is female by association; the surrounding streets are named for noteworthy women such as human rights activist Alicia Moreau de Justo. The bridge faces a new crop of trendy hotels, restaurants, and condos in Puerto Madero—and can take some credit for inspiring the neighborhood's redevelopment.

Fancy Footwork: With a single mast pointing skyward at a 45-degree angle, the bridge sometimes gets compared to a couple doing the tango. We don't quite see it, but in Buenos Aires, tango dancers are never far away, especially on the streets of San Telmo.

Last Chance Beaches part 4

Saugatuck Dunes, Michigan

Saugatuck Dunes, Michigan
Photo: MaryLou Graham, NatureShapesPhoto.com

Saugatuck is only 90 miles by boat from Chicago, but a visit to the classic resort town is like a step back in time. Among its many charms are beaches distinguished by the rare freshwater dunes formed by the waves of Lake Michigan. "Right now, you can see the dunes very much as Europeans saw them 200 years ago," says David Swan, president of the Saugatuck Dunes Coastal Alliance. Yet they may be in peril. The issue: a development proposed for a parcel of beachfront just outside the gates of Saugatuck Dunes State Park.

While the developer maintains that preserving the local culture and ecology are its top priorities, critics contend that the plan to build about 30 homes, a nine-hole golf course, a 66-slip marina, and a small hotel and condos heralds a drastic and deplorable change. Among the worries: The hotel's nine-story tower would forever alter a landscape that has drawn artists for centuries, and the construction will harm the fragile ecology of the 200-foot-high dunes. Local zoning laws prohibit anything of the scale being proposed, but the developer has filed a series of lawsuits to change them. In response, Saugatuck residents recently voted to raise taxes for a legal defense fund. Meanwhile, the National Trust for Historic Preservation named Saugatuck Dunes on its 2010 list of the country's most endangered historic places, and the developer has threatened to sue for defamation. Much of the shore remains protected, including Oval Beach, its best-known stretch, and an adjacent parcel the developer sold back to the municipality and state for conservation. But the rest of the shoreline—and the future of the town—hang in the balance.

If you go: Stay at the Sea Suites Boat & Breakfast, an inn located on a 105-foot houseboat docked right outside town. It has four large air-conditioned suites with private baths, and a hot tub on the top deck.