@DEAR NAME@ An Unforgettable Christmas/New Year in Kenya Imagine a Christmas in the shadow of Mt. Kenya, being serenaded by an assembly of red-robed Maasai warriors on Christmas Eve, warmed by a roaring campfire, plied with libations and appetizers whilst listening to carols under the star-studded African sky. Then imagine being treated to a tantalizing Christmas Eve dinner with fine wines on the candle-lit pool deck at the Sanctuary at Ol Lentille. On Christmas morning, you will join your guides and hosts on a hike to the summit of Ol Lentille where you will be rewarded with glasses of chilled champagne and freshly baked mince pies. You can then choose to enjoy Christmas Day being as active or as languid as you like. Whether you opt for a hair-raising escapade on a quad bike, a leisurely horseback ride through the bush, or just a day at the pool – it’s your Christmas, you can do whatever you want. Then, as the evening approaches, you will settle down to enjoy a sumptuous African Christmas banquet. On Boxing Day, your hosts John and Gill will take you to the Maasai village to give boxes of goodies to the children (they will provide these boxes for you). After lunch there will be late-afternoon boules and a croquet tournament, with a proper English afternoon tea, followed by a lavish bush barbecue. And if you’d like a New Year that will trump all others, Ol Lentille promises a smashing celebration, where you will be dining and dancing on Ol Lentille’s gorgeous roof-top deck, followed at midnight by a roaring campfire replete with champagne and toasted marshmallows. On New Year’s Day you’ll take to the bush for a lavish Buck’s Fizz brunch, an archery tournament – modern vs. Maasai bows - and a special nature treasure hunt. For Quintessentially members who book 3 nights, they will be given a 4th night free. If you’d like to book the ultimate festive trip – Christmas and New Year at Ol Lentille - then Quintessentially members will be able to stay for 10 days and pay for only 8. ROOM RATES: The Chief’s House sleeps six people and costs USD 13,000 for 3 or 4 nights or USD 28,000 for 8, 9 or 10 nights. The Colonel’s House sleeps four people and costs USD 8,750 for 3 or 4 nights or USD 18,700 for 8, 9 or 10 nights. The Sultan’s House sleeps two adults and two children and costs USD 6,600 for 3 or 4 nights or USD 15,200 for 8, 9 or 10 nights. The Eyrie sleeps two adults and costs USD 4,400 for 3 or 4 nights or USD 9,350 for 8, 9 or 10 nights. The entire property sleeps fourteen people plus five children and costs USD 23,100 for 3 or 4 nights or USD 52,900 for 8, 9 or 10 nights. Valid for Christmas (Tuesday 23rd to Saturday 27th December 2008) and New Year (Tuesday 30th December 2008 to Friday 2nd January 2009) For more information or to book please contact travel@quintessentially.com. Christmas and New Year in a Heavenly Ski Chalet Chalet Heaven is just that - a beautiful modern and contemporary chalet standing in splendid isolation with fabulous views of the Combins and right up the valley towards Arolla. Chalet Heaven is one of the most fantastic chalets that we have ever seen in Verbier. It has a very large open plan sitting and dining area and there is plenty of room for all guests to sit around the gorgeous open fire in comfort and to enjoy the fabulous views in the background. There is a separate television area allowing the kids to watch DVDs without disturbing your pre-dinner drinks, or affording you the opportunity to keep abreast of the latest sporting events or current affairs on the large flat screen. If you need to work, or you just need to email friends to let them know how super this chalet really is, then there is an office area replete with desk, PC and, of course, broadband internet. Upstairs be prepared to be spellbound by the master suite, which enjoys south facing views from the huge windows, and one of the coolest bathrooms ever to have been designed, including a bath with a flat-screen television fixed into the wall in front of you. Downstairs there are a further three bedrooms, two of which are also south-facing. We are sure that you will enjoy the views over the village the mountains from the comfort of the en suite bath of the second bedroom. The third bedroom also faces south and has an en suite bathroom. The final bedroom has a double bed with a further bunk bed above and a separate shower room. Access to this fabulous property is by a private 4-wheel drive vehicle with a 24 hour driver service. This beautiful chalet is complemented by the services of a professional chef, assisted by a chalet host who will also clean the chalet daily to ensure that you have a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Amazingly this chalet is currently available for half term (15th-21st February) Christmas and New Year but hurry as it will not be available for long. Prices are from GBP 25,000 per week on a half board basis, but Quintessentially members will receive a discount on the total price if booked by October. For more information or to book please contact travel@quintessentially.com. The Barracuda: Yacht freedom like no other Cruise the Mediterranean in sophisticated elegance, on a fully crewed, celebrity-owned, floating boutique hotel. This 100ft ex-spy boat, belonging to DJ Norman Cook, Zoë Ball and friends, has been beautifully rebuilt and restored to bring it to its current level of handcrafted opulence. The accommodation comprises of three two-berth cabins, fitted with bunk beds, and a double master cabin with a luxury en-suite shower room. Most yachts of this stature have one shower room; the Barracuda boasts a Cowshed-stocked four. The cruising starts at the home of the Barracuda, Portisco, which lies on the northeast coast of the Italian island of Sardinia. This part of the island has a natural, raw beauty with hidden coves and secluded beaches - just perfect for swimming off and exploring. The Barracuda’s 250-horsepower speedboat, or tender, is perfect for quick getaways and for making the most of the yacht’s water ski and wakeboard. For any Quintessentially members wanting to sail away this October, we can offer you the following fantastic package: GBP 395 per person, per night, based on eight people sharing Minimum three night stay All inclusive rate for food, alcohol, airport transfers, fuel within set cruising plan A four man crew: skipper, first mate, stewardess and a fabulous chef Power boat available for waterskiing, wakeboarding, snorkelling and general water-based fun Next year, the rates will be GBP 30,000 per week for six nights and seven days, so take advantage of this price whilst you still can. For more information, or to book this package, please contact travel@quintessentially.com. Truffle and Porcini Hunt It’s the Truffle Season in Italy, so why not join Palazzo Terranova for one of their favourite times of year? Palazzo Terranova is an exclusive and luxurious country house hotel nestling in the hills of Umbria. This idyllic, rustic scene has changed little since the late 17th century when the palazzo’s original owners gazed from the romantic Romeo and Juliet balconies. High in the tranquil hills of Umbria, amongst the most poetic of Italian landscapes, the good life - la dolce vita - still reigns. This irresistible package for Quintessentially members includes: Two nights in a spacious double room Buffet breakfast every morning, including home made pastries One morning of truffle hunting for two people Lunch for two people with a truffle or porcini theme after the hunt Gourmet dinner for two people with an Umbrian wine tasting A surprise gift on departure The total price for two people is EUR 950 (tax included). This offer is valid from Wednesday 1st October until Saturday 15th November so book while it lasts. For more information on how to book, please contact travel@quintessentially.com. Super Luxury Golf Cape Kidnappers is possibly one of the most awe-inspiring sites in the world at which to play golf. Set atop 6,000 rolling acres of pasture land located about a 50 minute flight away from Wellington in New Zealand, The Farm encompasses terrain which is reminiscent of Montana but plunges 800 feet into the sea. The lodge is a combination of stone and weathered wood, the buildings combining rustic materials with comfortable up-to-date furniture in a five star atmosphere. Cape Kidnappers caters for the entire family with activities ranging from golf, walking trails, spa treatments, quad biking and 4x4 experiences amongst others. Completed in 2004, Cape Kidnappers golf course has been hailed as one of the great modern marvels in golf and is currently ranked the 41st best golf course in the world by Golf Magazine. Prices start from NZD 320 per person per night, a price which includes accommodation, continental or cooked breakfast, pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres, complimentary mini-bar including domestic beers (excluding liquor and wine), gourmet three-course dinner and use of all lodge facilities (excluding golf). For more information on how to book, please contact travel@quintessentially.com. A Magical Jungle Safari at Sher Bagh, India The Ranthambhore National Park in south-eastern Rajasthan is amongst the finest places in the world to see wild tigers, and Sher Bagh is the perfect safari camp from which to explore it. Soak up the classic Indian safari atmosphere at Sher Bagh which recreates the sort of luxurious camping that was the norm during the heydays of the British Raj in the 1920s and 30s. Each of the white canvas tents is complete with its own verandah, hugely comfy king-size beds and sandstone bathroom. The spacious, airy main lodge has a seating area and excellent library-bar on the upper level, ideal for an ice-cold Pimms or G&T between jungle drives and a delicious repast. The twice-daily game drives give you a chance to explore the stunning forest where, in 1568, the great Mughal emperor Akbar fought a battle for control of the majestic fort that overlooks it. Today, however, it is the tiger that rules Ranthambhore. Home also to the leopard, the sloth bear, the jungle cat, the antelope, the monkey and over 350 species of birds, it is a wilderness paradise. In the evening, savour the taste of a traditional, sumptuous Indian dinner served on thaalis amid the flickering glow of candles, al-fresco around the campfire followed by cognac and cigars. Prices start from GBP 255 per night for double occupancy - a price that includes accommodation, breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning and afternoon tea and transfers to and from the railway station, airfield and helipad. For more information or to book please contact travel@quintessentially.com. Fall Foliage, Japan As the summer begins to wind down and our thoughts turn to autumn, a trip to Japan at this time of year would not be complete without taking some time to experience the magnificent colours of the fall foliage. Fall foliage is to the Japanese autumn what cherry blossom is to the spring and there are many wonderful places throughout the country to experience this sea of colour - namely Nikko, Hakone and Kyoto. The Nikko National Park is often called Japan's gem of scenic beauty, its natural wonderland of rivers, lakes and wooded highlands make it an ideal destination for taking in the changing colour of the leaves. From Hakone you can explore the beautiful scenery of Mt Fuji and its picture postcard views of Japan’s peak, scenic lakes and great hikes. Hakone is one of the most popular year-round inland hot-spring resorts in Japan, wedged between Mt. Fuji and Izu Peninsula. It is a large region surrounded by several forested mountains and has beautiful scenery that is dramatically accented by deep glens and ravines. When visiting Kyoto, why not immerse yourself in Japanese tradition by staying at a luxury ryokan traditional Japanese Inn? Sumiya, which is over 100 years old, is a firm favourite overflowing with charm and authenticity. Not only does Sumiya provide a base from which to explore the 1,600 Buddhist temples, over 400 Shinto shrines and 17 UNESCO world heritage sites in Kyoto, it is also host to a traditional Japanese tea ceremony every 7th and 17th day of the month. The comprehensive art encompassing the serving and drinking of tea and the protocol of tea preparation is a must if you are able to arrange your stay to coincide with these dates. Rates begin at JPY 42,000 per person per night, based on two people sharing including breakfast, full course Japanese dinner, service charges and taxes. For more information, or to book, please contact travel@quintessentially.com. Polo + Madonna - The Dynamic Duo December is by far the best month in which to visit Buenos Aires as the city is at its height of excitement, full of parties and events. Quintessentially has organised the perfect nine day trip to Buenos Aires with access to the most exclusive events: the Palermo Polo Open semi-finals and finals - the most important polo matches of the year - and musical icon Madonna’s highly anticipated performance at the famed Argentine Arena. For both events, Quintessentially can offer VIP seating and access to the most vibrant nightlife and private parties. Your trip begins upon arrival in Buenos Aires on November 28th where you will check into the glamorous Park Hyatt in the fashionable Recoleta neighbourhood for three nights. On November 29th and 30th you will have VIP access to the Palermo Polo Open semi-finals. December 1st will see you taken by private transfer to Santa Maria de Lobos for the Palermo Polo Open finals, where you will stay in a private villa for four nights/five days. During this time at the villa, you will also have the amazing opportunity to take private polo lessons each day. Then, on December 5th, you will return to Buenos Aires by private transfer and check back into the Park Hyatt for two further nights. Your penultimate day on December 6th is an exciting one as it not only marks the highly exclusive final polo match, but in the evening you will also get to see the long-awaited Madonna concert. This exciting Quintessentially package includes: Private transfers to and from the International Airport in Buenos Aires, a VIP reception and departure service Five nights at the Park Hyatt Buenos Aires Private transfers to and from Santa María de Lobos Four nights in a private villa at Santa María de Lobos with staff and a cook Five days of private polo lessons and practices at Santa Maria de Lobos VIP seats for polo semi-finals and final with private transfers VIP seats at the Madonna concert with private transfers The price for this fantastic package is USD 13,300 per person on a double basis, or USD 11,800 per person on a four person basis. For more information, or to book, please contact travel@quintessentially.com. October Half Term, Pambele Lodge, Mozambique If you think you’ve left it too late to get away this October and enjoy some quality time with the family, then take a look at this wonderful private lodge set amongst mile upon mile of porcelain white beaches, vast stretches of tidal sand flats, dunes and mangrove trees. Pambele Private Lodge is a wonderful space for socialising, with indoor and outdoor living areas that stretch along the beach. The lodge accommodates ten adults and four children in four separate villas, each one occupying its own private space on the beachfront. At Pambele there is as much or as little to do as you please. You can relax and enjoy the serenity of this remote location or participate in some of the many activities there. The area is renowned for its exquisite coral reef and pristine tropical islands so scuba diving can be arranged on their ocean-going catamaran, or you can embark on an island hopping expedition. Big game fishing is also a very popular pursuit, as is whale watching. The lodge comes fully equipped with vehicles, boats and kayaks including a traditional sailing dhow and a rigid inflatable boat for snorkelling trips. The Lodge costs GBP 275 per person per night based on 6 - 10 guests, GBP 175 per person per night based on 11 - 14 guests and GBP 150 per child per night, aged 2 - 10 years. Lodge bookings are subject to a minimum party of six (at adult rate) and a minimum stay of four nights. The price includes Private use of the lodge Private use of boats and vehicles (excluding fuel costs) Breakfast, lunch, dinner, picnics, soft and alcoholic drinks (excluding fine wines, champagne and spirits) Guided bush drives Laundry service Catamaran island hops and picnics Boat transfer from Vilanculos on arrival/departure Babysitting For more information on this wonderful lodge, or to book, please email travel@quintessentially.com. White Desert Quintessentially Escape have joined forces with White Desert to whisk you away to Antarctica where you will live amongst the Emperor penguins with the world’s finest polar explorers as your guides. Flying by private jet from Cape Town, South Africa, your destination is a unique camp that sits on top of a 200 metre icefall overlooking the coast. You will visit in mid-to-late November when the female penguins will be hatching their eggs - the most amazing and beautiful time of the season. They are completely unafraid of humans, so you will be able to get very close-up to see them in all their glory. The full package includes much more than can be detailed here, so for more information on this incredible experience, please email travel@quintessentially.com. The Quintessentially Travel Diaries Each month, one of our travel experts will give you the lowdown on their recent adventures. This month, Alice Ferguson, our Hong Kong-based travel specialist, tells us about her long weekend in Koh Samui, Thailand earlier this month. For members considering a visit to Thailand, or any other destination, we are here to offer honest and impartial advice with firsthand knowledge to help you plan the perfect holiday. Alice Ferguson’s Secret Samui Highlights: WEEKEND BREAK OR TROPICAL HOLIDAY Koh Samui, a short flight from many of the key Asian cities, is ideal for both a weekend break from the frantic pace of city living and longer holidays in the tropical sun. Flying into the boutique airport of Koh Samui, where a sense of tranquility pervades, you are greeted by sea vistas, sparkling golden beaches and warm smiles. ‘The island of coconut trees’ offers a wonderful mix of hidden gems and established legends, including hotels located close to the shopping and entertainment areas, an array of secluded private villas and everything in-between. If you are looking for a fun weekend with friends, a romantic getaway or a family holiday with the children, Koh Samui can cater for every need. FOUR SEASONS KOH SAMUI As you step out of your chauffeur-driven car (after a 30 minute drive from the airport), a very grand bell sounds to announce your arrival at Four Seasons Koh Samui. You are then presented with a chilled exotic fruit cocktail while being ushered into a sala, where everything else fades away as you feast your eyes upon a breathtaking view of the surrounding islands and understated villas nestled into the hillside. Each of the opulent villas at the Four Seasons has its own private pool, and with a tantalizing room service menu offering all types of cuisine, you need not leave your villa. However, it would be a shame to miss out on the private beach, where you can enjoy snorkelling, kayaking, games of coconut boules, reclining in the sunshine or sampling delicious fare at Pla Pla - the casual beachside seafood restaurant. THE LIBRARY Chaweng Beach has long been on the map as Koh Samui’s lively entertainment centre, with a myriad of shops, bars and restaurants. Tucked away, off the main road in Chaweng, is a hidden hotel gem, The Library. As you walk into the entrance of The Library, you are transported away from the hustle and bustle of Chaweng and into a sleek, design-focused property. With iMac computers in all of the tactile rooms, the flagship red swimming pool, tantalizing treats at The Page restaurant and a direct beachfront location, you can understand why this is fast becoming a popular spot with the trendy set. As the sun sets, I recommend lounging on the oversized beach beanbags in front of the hotel with a delicious cocktail from the hotel’s bar on the beach. Bliss. KARMA SAMUI Around the headland from Chaweng beach, luxury surrounds you. Time seems almost to stand still and although there is a shared sense of adventure, relaxation permeates every pore. The airy one- to four-bedroom pool villas at Karma Samui make you feel instantly at home and the desire to just kick off your shoes and dive straight into your own private pool is hard to ignore. I am not sure if it is the spacious sitting areas, chic interiors, the twinkling pool, fully equipped kitchen (ideal for in-villa dining - with a private chef, of course) or the sensitive blend of East meets West vibe, but it is hard to pull yourself away - even if it is only to go and have a traditional Thai massage at the Chakra Spa. PRIVATE VILLAS Koh Samui is home to an array of private villas. Fully staffed, these villas offer a picturesque haven for a group of friends travelling together as well as families seeking space. The joy of choosing the sanctuary of private villas is that your villa manager arranges pretty much anything you could wish for; from speed boats with banana floats that can keep the children busy while you enjoy a massage in the comfort of your room, to private dinners around the pool and diving trips to Ang Thong National Marine Park - a protected reserve with coral reefs offering world class diving and snorkelling. Miskawaan Villas, on the peaceful Maenam beach, is one of the highlights – and comprises a collection of eight new and luxurious beachfront villas - where you can indulge in as many activities as you see fit. Villa Lotus is a firm favourite and offers five bedrooms, many of which enjoy roof balconies - ideal for retreating to with your book as the sun sets. HEAVENLY HOLIDAY Koh Samui has the wonderful advantage of a short rainy season (October to November) therefore positioning it as a great destination for most of the year. Diving enthusiasts are continually amazed by all that the island offers as well as the coral reef dive sites around nearby islands such as Koh Tao. A break to Koh Samui will never disappoint and provides exactly the right balance of luxury, privacy and adventure. If Alice’s diary has inspired you to embark on travels of your own, our travel team will be more than happy to talk about organising a trip for you. Please contact travel@quintessentially.com for more.