Dream Holidays Aboard Luxury Yachts

The Birth of Luxury Yachts

At the beginning of the 20th Century, wealthy individuals began commandeering large private yachts for personal pleasure - this was the dawn of the phrase "luxury yachts". However, over the last decade or two, there has been a significant increase in the popularity and number of these large private luxury yachts.

Luxury yachts epitomise elegance at sea. Staffed with professional crew and offering supreme service and eagle eyed attention to detail - the interiors of these yachts are sure to astound even the most discerning traveller. Luxury yachts represent a self-contained world, with five-star dining, world-class accommodation and every amenity your heart could desire. All this is at your fingertips, whilst cruising some of most magnificent coastlines and ports in the world.

Yacht trips will provide a timeless experience in a floating paradise, instilled with extraordinary moments that will be etched into your memory forever. A holiday onboard a yacht will see you sipping on a cool cocktail while taking in the panoramic view of turquoise waters and burnt orange sunsets. All this is afforded without having to sacrifice on any comforts or quality.

Ideal Destinations for Luxury Yachts

Luxury yachts are particularly bountiful in the Caribbean and Mediterranean Seas, but more recently there has been an increase in yachts cruising to more remote areas of the world. These trendy yacht charter destinations vary from season to season but some of most enjoyed and most popular destinations include:

o The Mediterranean
o The Caribbean
o South East Asia

The Mediterranean

The azure beauty of the Mediterranean lures travellers with its fine wines, spectacular cuisine and alluring history of ancient civilisations and breathtaking architecture.

Western Mediterranean destinations for include; the Balearics, the South of France's pristine Cote d'Azur, Sicily, the spectacular Amalfi Coast, Corsica and Sardinia's Cala di Volpe.

Some extraordinary destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean region include the likes of the diverse Greek Islands that tempt admires to visit again and again. The south coast of Turkey and the remarkable Adriatic Sea with Croatia and Montenegro have also proven incredibly popular.

The Caribbean

Ever charming the visitors that arrive on their luxury yachts , the Caribbean abounds with natural beauty and immaculate blue waters. Somewhat of a celebrity playground, the Caribbean is made up of many islands, ideal for leisurely exploration. The most popular of the Caribbean islands, the Virgin Islands is a must visit destination. The magical archipelago, made up of more than forty islands and cays, is an absolute treat.

South East Asia

Encompassing Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand, South East Asia has recently grown in popularity when it comes to yachting. The region draws travellers with its collection of exotic islands and magical getaways. Locations in South East Asia are all unique in what they can offer travellers - there is the diversity and rich cultural and historical heritage of the Indonesian islands, the delightfully unspoilt islands and rainforests of the Malay Peninsula or the adventure rich South China Sea.

Activities and Facilities Aboard Luxury Yachts

Regardless of the destination you choose, you can rest assured that you will have access to every amenity to make your stay onboard pure bliss. Rooms on these luxurious yachts are all professionally designed with fine interior details such as wooden floors, marble columns, plush carpets and granite countertops. Living up to their opulent reputation, most luxury yachts feature entertainment systems, internet access and multimedia centres. Powered yachts are ideal for those who wish to combine elegance with sporting adventure. Most vessels will offer jet skis, waverunners, scuba diving and even windsurfing equipment to explore your surroundings.

Luxury Island Holidays For Independent Travelers

Experienced, savvy travelers seek out the best travel destinations the world has to offer, scouting for the ultimate combination of luxury accommodations, fine dining opportunities, and impeccable service, while at the same time enjoying unique local scenic splendor and culture. Luxury island holidays provide the perfect recipe for vacation success because each developed island of the globe, no matter its size, offers a unique view of the world. Resort owners of island properties typically cater to a specific group of travelers and offer a wide range of activities from, for example, an eco-friendly perspective where the resort blends seamlessly into the landscape to a bold high-rise hotel bustling with nightlife, and everything in between.

Two groups of islands are among the best luxury travel destinations in the world that appeal to upscale independent travelers: the islands of the South Pacific and the islands off the east coast of Africa. The Polynesian Islands of the South Pacific include exotic Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Morea, each boasting a host of fine resorts, many taking advantage of the pristine sand beaches and clear azure waters that are part of the South Pacific legend. Visitors to these exotic islands can select from a host of superior resorts that offer all the amenities imaginable on islands of every size. For the ultimate in privacy and tranquility, consider a resort that is located on a small private island.

Halfway around the world, the Seychelles Islands, an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, are also known for phenomenal beaches, crystal clear waters and idyllic scenery coupled with five-star beachfront luxury resorts. For a change of pace, consider a stay at an eco-friendly inland small hotel and be close to the myriad of flora and fauna that can be found nowhere else in the world. Eco-friendly five-star resorts that offer the best in accommodations, dining and service can be easily found in the Seychelles.

For travelers who enjoy a tropical environment, the islands off the coast of the tiny Central American country of Belize offer spectacular scenery in a warm climate and waters. The reefs off the coast of Belize provide one of the premier scuba diving venues in the world. And unlike the remote islands in the middle of the ocean, guests at eco-friendly resorts on some of the islands of Belize are only a short boat trip from the mainland tour adventures to the Mayan ruins, bird-watching and other activities.

East of Belize, the Caribbean Islands are a group of volcanic islands that form the boundary between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The culture of the islands is a rich blend of African and European influences upon an indigenous population that dates back to the era of colonialism. Again, sun, surf and luxury resorts abound in the Caribbean and upscale visitors have numerous five-star resorts from which to choose. Golf enthusiasts particularly enjoy the fine selection of courses available on the islands and the islands are known for their many jazz festivals.

Warm waters, sandy beaches, sunshine and luxurious pampering at a five-star luxury resort represent the ultimate in luxury travel for many an upscale globe-trotter. The warm islands of the world beckon and the hosts at these fine resorts are ready to fulfill the traveler's every wish, including a private dinner on a secluded beach at sunset.

Koh Samui is Ideal For Everybody

Koh Samui is a favorite with young and old, singles and families, Thais and International visitors. Samui is the place to be for the holiday of your lifetime. Samui is labeled 'paradise' not only for its tropical beaches and friendly people. Samui is home to about 40,000 full-time inhabitants. Samui provides the perfect setting to relax and unwind.

You will have several possibilities to travel from Bangkok to Koh Samui: by Bangkok Airways (Samui) by Thai Airways (Samui) by Thai Airways (Suratthani) by Orient Thai Air by Berjaya Air by night-train (plus ferry) by VIP-bus (plus ferry) Whatever you do: Do not forget your baggage. You will reach the island either at Samui airport, Samui ferry port or Nathon pier. Web Sawadee Plc, Lamai (Koh Samui) Advise All travelers arriving at Koh Samui Airport should use the pick-up service of their hotel (which is the most convenient way) or the transportation service provided through sawadee.

Those who experience Samui are rewarded with an idyllic tropical retreat with little traffic, white-sand beaches, a sapphire-blue sea, an abundance of tantalizing Thai cuisine and an unusually warm and friendly people. There is a huge range of places to see and things to do on Samui and its neighboring islands, and we hope that Samui Guide will give you plenty of ideas to make the most of your holiday. "Koh" is Thai for Island and Koh Samui is Thailand's favorite island getaway location. Bophut is one of the oldest villages on Samui, this tiny stretch of the north shore of Samui is home of all the quiet charm anyone could want. This part of the Koh Samui is an ideal location for families, couples in love, or anyone looking for a bit of beachside serenity and good clean fun.

"Koh" is Thai for Island and Koh Samui is Thailand's favorite island getaway location. Bophut is one of the oldest villages on Samui, this tiny stretch of the north shore of Samui is home of all the quiet charm anyone could want. This part of the Koh Samui is an ideal location for families, couples in love, or anyone looking for a bit of beachside serenity and good clean fun.

Holidays to Krabi

Krabi is one of the most beautiful beach resorts in Thailand. It has clear waters and glorious sandy beaches framed by incredible limestone scenery. Less commercialised than other Thai resorts and amazing natural scenery mean Krabi is an ideal retreat, however, there are plenty of local bars and restaurants to enjoy when you are feeling sociable. As with all of the Thai resorts, you can combine your holidays in Krabi with other destinations in Thailand.

During your holidays to Krabi you will see the landscape around Krabi featuring rubber tree plantations and mangrove swamps. Fossilized shells, more than 60 million years old, are found along the coast.

While on holidays to Krabi, the beaches, below steep cliffs, are idyllic. Hat Nang is tucked into a bay, but there are others, even more spectacular, stretching around Phang Nga bay. Hat Re Lai is surrounded by towering rocks and tapers off into a coral reef. In Holidays to Krabi, Khao Phanom Bencha National Park culminates at 1,397 m (4,583 ft), providing a watershed for Krabi province. It incorporates 80 coastal isles and is largely moist evergreen forest. The fauna includes wild pigs, panthers, black bears, mouse deer, langurs, gibbons and hornbills. Just 350 m from the park headquarters, Huai To waterfall is 70 to 80 m (230-262 ft) high and cascades over 11 levels into a clear pool. A 2-km hike from the headquarters, Khao Phueng cave has spectacular stalactites and stalagmites in interesting formations.

During your holidays to Krabi you will find Thai food can be so spicy that it's tempting to gulp a glass of cold water to put out the fire. Resist that urge! A few mouthfuls of plain rice are much more effective. And say mai phet, "not hot", when ordering, if you want the cook to go easy on the chillies. There are many more subtle flavours that characterize Thai cuisine, notably lemon grass, coconut milk, coriander, garlic, ginger and mint. In Holidays to Krabi the local seafood is a major attraction: hor mok pla is a fish curry with vegetables and coconut milk. Pla preow wan is fish in sweet-and-sour sauce. In most of the country, boiled rice is the mainstay.

Like elsewhere, shopping is enjoyable during your holidays in Krabi. Thai crafts and souvenirs, fabrics and jewellery are among the world's most attractive and appealing. Thai silk is justly famous, but the quality of what you are offered varies. Pottery runs from the simplest pot to the most elegant figurines. Look for teak salad bowls and wood-carvings, and lacquerware from miniature dishes to furniture.

You'll be offered precious and semi-precious stones from amethysts to zircons, rough or cut and polished, but you either have to know the business or trust the merchant. On holidays to Krabi knowledge is also essential if you're going to buy antiques, for the counterfeits are convincing. And a very big complication: it's forbidden to export genuine Thai antiquities without special permission.

Top 10 Christmas destinations Sunny

Do you dream of sun soaked Christmas far away from the every-day routine, lying on pristine white sand, floating away in sparkling warm waters or perhaps exploring an exotic culture? You can live your dream in one of these ten top destinations for your sunny Christmas luxury holiday. From beachfront retreats to rainforest sanctuaries, these heaven-on-earth locations include some of the most exclusive 5 star resorts in the world.

1. Samoa

The natural beauty of this South Pacific Island combines with the warmth of its people to create a world of carefree relaxation. Experience all Samoa has to offer in style at Aggie Grey's Lagoon Beach Resort and Spa with 50 acres of tropical gardens, stunning beach, turquoise lagoon, golf course and the finest in traditional Samoan hospitality.

2. Hawaii

For those seeking more active pursuits, Hawaii delivers with legendary surf and high-voltage adventuring. Get close to humpback whales and dolphins in the waters around Maui, or see fresh lava flows at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Stay in sumptuous surrounds in the tropical 5 star resort Halekulani and indulge your senses with stunning views, exceptional hospitality and superb cuisine.

3. Bora Bora

A Polynesian jewel nestled within a lagoon and barrier reef, Bora Bora is the ultimate island luxury holiday experience. In the middle of the crystal lagoon lays Motu Toopua, a remnant of an ancient volcano, which is now the location of the Bora Bora Lagoon Resort & Spa. Find your bliss in this exquisite oasis of lush forests, long secluded beaches and never-ending ocean.

4. Peru

Fire your imagination and revive your spirit with all the fascinating wonders of Peru. Travel in comfort on a luxury tour train to the mysterious Lost City of Machu Picchu; find peace in the Sacred Valley; explore the historic city of Cuzco; discover the eco-diversity of the Amazonian rainforests; and, at the close of a full day, return to a 5 star hotel such as Monasterio.

5. Morocco

Although it has an extensive coastline skirting the Mediterranean, Morocco offers much more than ocean views. The extraordinary landscape encompasses soaring mountains, verdant valleys and the starkly beautiful Sahara Desert. From the spectacular Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca to the bustling bazaars of Marrakesh, this remarkable country will enchant and amaze.

6. Maldives

The Maldives is a stunning string of atolls - islands of coral that each encircles a lagoon - scattered across the blue-green canvas of the Indian Ocean. It's a paradise of serene indulgence for those wanting to laze the day away by the warm water, and its magnificent underwater coral gardens also attracts scuba divers from around the world.

7. Thailand

Journey through the heart of Asia, from Bangkok to Singapore, aboard the exquisitely appointed Eastern & Oriental Express. A luxury tour by rail reveals the magic of the region, from lush rice-fields to historic landmarks, and ensures your complete comfort with opulent cabins, tantalising Eastern and European dining, and personalised service.

8. Bali

Surrender yourself to complete tranquillity in this idyllic haven where soft, white sand meets sparkling azure ocean. Rest and rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit within one of the many Nusa Dua 5 star resorts. One of the most exclusive is the spacious St. Regis Bali Resort which will satisfy your every desire with private villas, seductive spa treatments and extensive health facilities.

9. Orpheus Island, Australia

This Great Barrier Reef resort is located within its own National Park and brings new meaning to the word 'exclusive', accepting no more than 42 guests at any one time. Accessible only by seaplane, and free of such intrusions as telephones, televisions, day-trippers or children under 15, secluded bliss is assured in this natural paradise.

10. Eagles Nest, New Zealand

The five world-class villas situated in the Bay of Islands of New Zealand represent the very pinnacle of private opulence. Nestled in the rugged, sub-tropical wilds of the peninsula, the Eagles Nest luxury holiday experience is extraordinary: gourmet cuisine prepared by a resident chef; extensive cellar encompassing the best local wines to the finest French Champagne; state-of-the-art entertainment systems; every amenity including Porsche cars; direct access to enchanting bushland and hidden beaches; and breathtaking headland views of the bay and beyond. Absolutely unforgettable.

The Top 5 Holiday Destinations

The heap of anguish caused by the claustrophobic city life can only be eradicated when you take a stride down the blue beaches of Australia or relax at the foot of Christ De Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. When life demands too much and you want to escape from this mundane world, take a flight to one of your desired destinations and spend the holiday there with your loved ones. Give yourself a chance to enjoy the gorgeous Greek Island, scintillating Cuba or the magical Thailand. The unparalleled exquisiteness of the five top destinations below is alluring visitors to feast on the amazing beauty.

1. Australia - Whitsunday Islands

The spectacular scene of Australia has made it the suitable holiday destination for people from all over the world. The very thought of the coral reefs, lush rainforests and the amazingly warm ocean water would chill you up and you won't be able to resist the charm of holidaying in this country. Whitsunday coasts and islands seem to have been naturally tailored to quench your need of getting lost in the soothing greens and serene blue of the water. The Islands are centrally located on the Queensland Coast where almost all flights have been given access. The airport is about 40 minutes away from the Airlie Beach and leisure can be enjoyed to the full extent. Apart from this Island particularly, Australia is encompassing within itself a wide array of holiday zones. The Gold Coasts, Hunter Valley, Sunshine coast, the wonderful Sydney and so on. At Whitsunday, you will get the opportunity to select resorts and hotels of your choice. The availability of the peaceful ambience, spas, swimming pools, gardens and other amenities will vary with the denomination of the accommodation you choose. The exciting Great Barrier Reef, the stunning beauty of the Proserpine River and the luxury yachts are bound to drive you ecstatic. Holiday packages to this Island will seem to be incomplete, as you will fall in love with Whitsunday forever.

2. Brazil - Rio de Janeiro

It may be the outstanding color of its beaches or the magical sound produced by the forests that has made the creation of samba music possible in Rio de Janeiro. The high-spirited people of this state make Brazil one of the liveliest places on earth. Those of you who are fond of sports must take your family to this city to enjoy the essence of sports and sporting spirit. The intense cultural life of ravishing Rio includes mind-blowing music and heart throbbing belly dances. The state is the pride of Brazilians for it includes within it, theaters, clubs, museums, beaches, gardens, forests, lagoons and the memorabilia of the World War II. Winter is full of events and it would the best time to take a flight to Rio and give your life a new refreshing turn. Hotels and inns are available at your fingertips, which you can reserve even via the Internet.

3. Greek Islands

If you are a travel freak then you must spend your next holiday at the Greek Islands, which are about 22 in number. Mykonos would take you down the memory lanes with the windmills turning the pages of history. Affordable hotels and excellent services are designed to make your visit very pleasurable. Naxos is the island of churches, Venetian castles and homes just opposite to the nightlife culture that Rhodes can give. Lesvos is a perfect destination to soothe your tired mind and eyes. Wildlife, restaurants, spas and greenery can cheer you up for the rest of the hectic year ahead. Most of the islands here are breathtaking and you can zoom through the clouds directly or can halt in mainland Greece and then move ahead. Accommodation places are always ample, just prior booking is essential.

4. Cuba

Vigorous salsa, mind-blowing architecture, exciting tropical beaches and the swashbuckling nightlife can be the most apt phrases to describe Cuba - the dream destination for most people. Relaxation coupled with luxury is going to make your holiday in Cuba one of the most memorable experiences. This unique and safe Caribbean Island has got a historic importance of its own. Fishing or sailing in a tranquil ambience can reinvigorate you to your fullest. The journey to Cuba would revitalize you, shedding all the lethargic loads that you had been carrying so far. Your stride through the Las Terrazas will enable you to relish the flora and fauna. The coffee at a famous Cafetal restaurant would make you nostalgic, and sips at the Darquiri cocktail at Tropicana Cabaret are definitely an enchanting experience. Ecological tours of the Western Cuba can also be a sumptuous and momentous moment for you. If you are looking for cheap eats and lodging, you can find it at this top holiday destination.

5. Thailand

Thailand gains prominence as one of the hottest tourist sports for the sky kissing mountains, green meadows, multi-colored orchids, fascinating native handcrafts, coupled with the tropical climate. The country is well known for the hospitality, and the local food is also superb to taste. For the active traveler, this can be the ideal spot to spend the holidays. Travel packages booked earlier can make your journey to this place an interesting one. Bangkok is the main gateway to Thailand where the international airport is situated. The religion followed in this country is Buddhism and everywhere place you visit, you are going to find information pertaining to Lord Buddha. The elephant conservation center, wildlife sanctuaries, Thai crafts and the fruit carving are simply wonderful. The capital Bangkok is of great prominence due to the natural beauty that it ensembles. Makha Puja, Flower festival, Pattya festival and the Sonkran festivals attract throngs of visitors every year to this country. For a cool escape, the southern beaches are a definite hot spot and are not to be missed, Phuket having the biggest tourism numbers followed by Koh Samui.

Luxury Boutique Holidays in Greece

Greece is renowned for its magnificent culture, perfect blue seas, quaint whitewashed architecture and olive grove laden hills. This ancient land has so much to offer, and in recent times has become the ideal destination for a luxury boutique holiday with more and more magnificent residences opening all the time. Here's our pick of a few favourites:

The Island of Skiathos:

The magnificent island of Skiathos boasts sublime golden beaches lined with native Greek pines, perfect crystal clear seas and magnificent greenery. The Aegean Suites is the perfect stylish base from which to experience this cosmopolitan island.

Aegean Suites: Megali Ammos, Skiathos:

Known for its private, luxurious and stylish aura and magnificent personalised service, this chic adult-only retreat is a beautiful combination of modern art and Mediterranean architecture. Overlooking the Aegean Sea and literally over the road from a beautiful beach this all-suite boutique residence boasts a great pool, Jacuzzi, relaxation terrace and spa as well as 3 restaurants and Champagne bar.

The Island of Santorini:

One of the most southern of the Greek Islands of the Cyclades, set in the Aegean Sea, Santorini is renowned for its beautiful sunsets and is increasingly popular as a romantic luxury destination. The island was volcanically formed and because of this, it features dramatic sheer landscapes and intriguing, beautiful black sand beaches.

Santorini Grace: Imerovigli, Santorini

The Santorini Grace is located in the picturesque, whitewashed village of Imerovigli and sits 300 metres above a deep sunken volcanic basin named Caldera which only adds to the mystique of this stylish hotel. This chic whitewashed property is carved into the cliffs and provides luxury, privacy, magnificent personalised service, combined with fine food and drink; everything you could want from a luxury boutique Experience. Each room is individually decorated and some with private pools, and the hotel also has a magnificent infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea, a second swimming pool, two pool bars and a restaurant amazing.

Kirini: Oia, Santorini

Located in the beautiful village of Oia, the Aegean Sea with a splendid view of the Caldera basin is of volcanic islands is the Kirin. The design of Cycladic architecture combined with modern luxury and the individual ischic residence ideal for a stylish luxury break in the sun. As you'd expect the personalised service here is exquisite. The hotel features a large outdoor pool, the White Cave Pool Lounge & Cocktail bar, the magnificent White Cave Restaurant, a vast wine cellar and possibly the best spa on the island. Every room in this all-suite residence is uniquely designed and has magnificent facilities; this whole stylish package oozes luxury while remaining unique.