Winter Blues

Cures for the Winter Blues: we recommend The Four Seasons Maldives – two scrumptious properties, plus a private island and a private yacht- https://www.gwenbooks.com/2019/10/four-seasons-maldives-hotels-private-island/ https://www.gwenbooks.com/2018/03/four-seasons-maldives-yacht-explorer/ https://www.gwenbooks.com/2018/02/four-seasons-kuda-huraa-resort-maldives/

There aren’t enough superlatives to fully and accurately describe the staggering natural beauty of the Maldives. Nothing prepared me for the beauty of the Maldives, the diving and snorkeling are exceptional, fish to table meals, scrumptious spas, it’s a distance, but beyond worth it! I stayed for two weeks and could have easily lounged/snorkeled for an additional week!

Four Seasons Kuda Huraa Resort Maldives
Four Seasons Kuda Huraa Resort Maldives
Snorkel or dive- this little guy was was in barely 4 feet of water right in front of my beach villa, manta rays hover in deeper seas, turtles may come in close for a peek at your mask!
Ancient Bhutan Kingdom

Brilliant blue skies at dizzying altitudes in the ancient Kingdom of Bhutan, explored village by village with Amankora Resorts. Amankora has five lodges spread through the Kingdom and each lodge is a subtle suggestion of the white walled Dzongs. The Bhutanese architecture is very colorful and replicated in farmhouses, temples and local shops. Amankora has kept it clean and simple, why try to compete with the majesty of the Himalayas, the bedecked local homes and the elaborately painted Temples. See my glorious posts on Bhutan https://www.gwenbooks.com/2019/02/amankora-bhutan-2-by-2/; https://www.gwenbooks.com/2019/01/amankora-bhutan/

We are strong Four Seasons supporters all over the world but for warm water and sizzling sun think of the divine Four Seasons Punta Mita, villas, beach cabanas, tequila tasting, warm water – it’s got it all! The recently opened Four Seasons Cabo is an architectural stunner- if you like a desert environment, absolutely isolated experiences, swimmable beaches then this new resort will speak to you. Our clients seeking winter warmth have visited almost every Four Seasons beach resort: Costa Rica, Bora Bora, Nevis and even the beautiful Four Seasons Athens beach resort in summer. Oh and the multiple Hawaiian resorts: Lanai, Maui, Hualalai, and Oahu Ko Olina, so many choices!

Four Seasons Punta Mita

Farther afield: Fiji, many exceptional properties offering so many water activities, the kiddos will be worn out by the daily options! Exceptional deep sea fishing is also very popular in Fiji.

Laucula Island Resort, Fiji

New Zealand and Australia offer summer warmth when we are chilly. Argentina wine tasting, it’s hot there! Spin the globe, follow the sun!

Image result for new zealand

Ring us for Winter Warmth Solutions – Cures for the Winter Blues!

Esperanza, an Auberge Resort

Our Journeys are designed in the style of a three-act play. I believe my love of theater and rituals stem from my Catholic upbringing, and in particular, the ancient rites of Latin Mass – which took place in the dark ages. Ceremonies that included overpowering incense, flickering candles, chiming bells, and lace mantillas worn, oh so dramatically. High Latin Mass, a powerful and unforgettable procedure. My recent visit to Esperanza didn’t disappoint and included a full high drama, third act closer, we survived Hurricane Newton here without a single hiccup.

As I have probably previously prattled, the initial welcome at a property sets the tone and stage of a visit. We purposely work with on-property management, the GM’s and our off site representatives expecting them to personally welcome our clients. There are numerous clients who reach out to me on arrival sharing their enthusiasm: We are being spoiled. I LOVE this hotel. Amazing! Honestly, people take a minute from their Journeys and send me messages. Amenities arrive and we receive photos of the gifts, love the welcome and love hearing from our clients. Seems simple – but not every hotel practices the welcome – setting the stage in delighting the guest.

My recent visit to the Auberge property in Cabo, Esperanza Resort reaffirmed my belief. The moment you arrive, the charming rituals begin. Served an indigenous frothy and refreshing chilled pick-me-up; just enough to make you pause and be captivated by the surroundings. No rushing to a lobby, you have arrived. Chill!

Meander amid the fragrant paths to reach your room, enjoy a brief overview of your suite; a knock at the door and an authentic liquid refreshment, a refreshing Margarita arrives with a barman! A barman dressed in white linen snapping a cocktail shaker for full effect. Oh, did I mention the traditional molcajete brimming with fresh chopped guacamole, assorted salsas and fresh chips?

Now this is a Statement Arrival!

Set at the very tip of the Baja Peninsula, between two massive bluffs, and only a few miles from Cabo San Lucas, Esperanza provides stunning views of both the Sea of Cortez and Punta Ballena – Whale Point – lounge in winter and tally the humpback’s passing and breaching.

Something for everyone here – bungalow accommodations with deck top infinity edge Jacuzzi’s – are my favorite. The after Odile hurricane changes are subtle, the private patio’s have a woven panel assuring intimate privacy in your Jacuzzi. The same soothing color palate remains in the very comfortable luxurious rooms, why compete with the incomparable views of the pounding sea? A strong sense of place is achieved with handcrafted furniture and accessories created by Mexican artisans.

Relax in one of the 56 air-conditioned Casitas or secluded suites featuring free minibar items and espresso makers. All the rooms have private furnished balconies. Private bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers feature deep soaking bathtubs and designer toiletries.The drop dead view is amazing from the shower for two! Yoga on your terrace, go no further than the closet for your mat, essentials at your fingertips!

We reserve for families here as well, as the Resort has a cluster of private Villas which can accommodate large groups with full kitchens, usually a patio Jacuzzi or small plunge pool. Need a butler or chef to prepare meals? Si!

Do visit the full-service spa, where you can enjoy body treatments, massages and facials. One key element here is an assortment of five outdoor swimming pools; plus you can  spend time at the private beach, often not swim able, but with the stunning pools, who needs sand in your toes?  

Enjoy a meal at one of the resort’s dining establishments, which include 6 restaurants. Roam here for a few days and dine at a different location several times a day – poolside, cliff side, elegant evening dining.The resort has a full schedule of culinary events, consider the choices: beach asados (Argentine-style barbecues) to Mexicanisimo Thursdays, where live music and fireworks accompany meals from various regions of the country. We were invited to a special post Hurricane Cocktail party – a delightful way to meet guests and sample exquisite passed nibbles and cocktails.

The new “Sunrise Yoga” program offers an early-morning stretch at one of the hotel’s two private coves.Oh, did I mention championship golf courses? Endless options, a testament to the discerning Auberge brand. Whale watching soon in winter – no place better, Esperanza, an Auberge Resort!