Named for the Mayan god of day and night, Belize has a new residential project to add to its already impressive list of luxury properties. The Itz’ana Resort & Residences graces the white sand beaches and crystal blue waters of Belize along the quaint coastal village of Placencia. Perched on a prime location on the Caribbean peninsula, bordered by the sea on one side and lagoon on the other, this luxury resort is comprised of 39 boutique cottages and villas designed for the ultimate in beachfront living.
According to developer Colin Hannan, ”Eight years ago, we knew that Belize would become a world-class destination because of its natural beauty, culture and proximity to major markets. Ka’ana’s success in the jungle continues to exceed our expectations. With the entire destination now coming of age, we’re thrilled to launch Itz’ana on the beach in Placencia and share this investment opportunity.”
Each of the luxurious residences features palatial windows and doors with high ceilings, all designed to emphasize spacious, open-air living, designed by Boston-based architect Roberto de Oliveira Castro. Castro, who is a native of the region, uses a blend of traditional designed and modern materials to create a unique and elegant spin on Belize’s history and British colonial past.
With residences varying in size from 1,000 up to 5,000 square feet, opening prices at Itz’ana Resort & Residences will start at $240,000 (USD). Each of the luxury villas and cottages will be direct waterfront, with options for lagoon or beachfront living.
Located next to sparkling beaches, secluded islands, rivers, jungles, and the world’s second largest barrier reef, the resort will offer residents and guests endless opportunities for exploring the Caribbean lifestyle will an exclusive selection of on and off-site amenities
On-site amenities will include: The Rum Room, a private bar featuring rums from the Caribbean and Central America; Limilia Restaurant by Chef Mara Jernigan; a full service marina, a rooftop yoga deck, a water sports adventure center, a gym, and a spa with salt-water pool.
In addition to offering some of the most luxurious properties in Belize and the Caribbean, Itz’ana also has plans to release its Itz’ana Home by Samuel Amoiacollection of handcrafted furniture.
As the 48th W Hotel worldwide and the 5th W Hotel in Latin America, W Hotels has announced the opening of its luxurious W Punta de Mita in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit. Owned by Fideicomiso Los Veneros, the new hotel is part of the multi-use oceanfront development, Los Veneros, on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, and is the brand’s second hotel in Mexico, after the W Mexico City. The W Punta de Mita is also the second Latin American W Escape – only found in ten destinations around the world, this is the W Hotel’s modern approach to staid leisure travel.
“We are delighted to introduce our new W Escape to Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, a world-class destination for surf and sun, as we continue to grow the brand’s presence in this region. W Punta de Mita brings a playfully stylish addition to this Mexican hot spot, and we are confident that with the brand’s unique lifestyle programming and cutting-edge design it will become a must-visit destination to the new generation of jetsetters.” – Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide.
DESIGN
The W Punta de Mita was designed by ASET/AOMA in collaboration with Oakland-based design firm Mister Important Design and Starwood’s award-winning design team. Inspired by the local bohemian surf culture, the design of the hotel reflects the history and culture of Mexico’s Pacific Coast through bright colorful highs and playful palettes with the blues of the bay and patterns of the indigenous Huichol people of Nayarit. With lively imagery, water and landscape features that mimic the natural surroundings, and traditional Mexican folk art, the authentic spirit of Mexico comest to life throughout the hotel’s stylish accommodations, public spaces and amenities.
THE SPACE
As you approach the entrance of W’s newest resort in Mexico, a bright mosaic tiled walkway, trickled with blues and greens, leads you through the spaces of the hotel. Guiding you from the Welcome area, through the “Living Room” (W’s version of a hotel lobby) , out to the WET deck (pool and outdoor lounge area) and finally over the white sand beach out to the crystal blue waters with Instagram-worthy views. Comprised of more than 750,000 individual tiles, the colors and scenes reflected in the walkway are inspired by the indigenous Huichol people and the journey of life.
As you enter the Living Room and are greeted by W’s signature hospitality and service, the wide open area is inspired by a Palapa and the large space is anchored by the Living Room bar accented by a 450 LED light chandelier that sways in the Pacific Ocean breeze. Scattered throughout the space are long, beautifully-crafted strands of beads and small cocktail tables – perfect for sipping a welcome cocktail while listening to the sounds of the WET Deck’s house DJ.
VILLAS
The hotel offers a selection of 119 stylishly designed guest villas, including one Extreme WOW Suite (the W brand’s take on the traditional Presidential Suite). All villas and suites feature private balconies or patios, artisanal Mexican tiled floors and headboards fashioned from either surfboards or punctured tin replicating the design found in local churches, as well as the signature W Bed and sumptuous Bliss® bath amenities.
The villas surround the property’s natural spring-fed lake and are designed to highlight the area’s natural beauty. Each villa has a private terrace and enclosed open-roof patio perfect for natural light during the day and stargazing at night.
THE WOW SUITE
The 4,460 square foot, 2-bedroom Extreme WOW Suite is inspired by the Mexican Flag – the red is found in the tiles of the pool, the green in the surrounding vegetation and the white in the expansive views of the crashing waves on the beach seen from the suite’s private terrace. The center focal point of the room is the swimming pool that circles around the suite’s island-like living room and can only be accessed by a small wooden bridge above the water.
DINING
W Punta de Mita offers five distinct dining spaces including one of the most exclusive restaurants in the world, Mesa1 – Privately situated on an island in the middle of a spring-fed lake, this “restaurant” can accommodate only one seating daily. A gastronomic experience unlike any other, guests arrive on stepping stones that emerge from the water and disappear once everyone has been seated. A massive Parota tree trunk from the local forest was repurposed to create the spectacular dining surface. The evening is then topped off with a seven-course customizable tasting menu prepared by one of W Punta de Mita’s private chefs.
Other dining options include the Spice Market, Chevicheria beachfront dining near the WET deck, and Venazu where you’ll find all-day dining and traditional Mexican cuisine.
OTHER AMENITIES & OFFERS
Experience pure relaxation at the W Punta de Mita’s AWAY Spa, an indulgent 4,000 square foot luxury spa complete with Relaxation Dec and Therapy Pools. Enjoy non-motorized sports at the Surf Shop, or sweat it out at W’s signature FIT® state-of-the-art fitness facility. Event and meeting spaces are also available.
And, every experience at the W Punta de Mita is highlighted by the W brand’s signature Whatever/Whenever service philosophy, providing guests whatever they want, whenever they want it.
On the final stretch of Medano beach in Cabo San Lucas, with perfect views overlooking Land’s End, is the private 22-acre enclave known as Hacienda and it is redefining oceanfront living. The Hacienda Beach Club and Residences is an unparalleled residential community overlooking the Sea of Cortez in the heart of Cabo San Lucas. Once a legendary family-owned hideaway, Hacienda is one of the oldest and now most well-known resorts in the famous beach town. Fifty years ago, it was Hollywood’s favorite getaway and today has been transformed into the best address in Baja.
Every home at Hacienda has been designed to embrace carefree vacation-style living. The Cabo resort community has 109 residences to select from with varying floor plans from one to four bedrooms. There are sixteen, 2-story beachfront villas on the white sands of Playa Medano and within walking distance to the resorts now famous beach club. Other notable real estate options include penthouses and ground level verandas. All floor plans were carefully designed to incorporate a seamless transition between terraces and interior space with vanishing pocket doors to take in sweeping panoramic views from where ever you are in the home.
Discover the Finest Beachfront Living in Cabo
Featuring its own signature beach club, Hacienda delivers unequivocal services to its homeowners and guests. The beach club showcases an array of cascading infinity edge pools, Jacuzzi’s and private cabanas so that owners and guests find relaxation playing to all their senses. Lounging poolside is not complete without the luxury of attentive poolside service provided by the onsite restaurant, bar and grill.
Before you laze away the day at the pool or on the beach below, enjoy the Fitness Pavilion where state-of-the-art equipment allows for a great workout experience for all levels. If classes are more your style, try a spinning, TRX, Zumba or Paddle board yoga lesson on the Sea of Cortez for a change of scenery.
No resort is complete without a delicious, rejuvenating Spa and the Hacienda delivers. Using local ingredients such as juniper, coconut and tequila in their massages and treatments, their holistic approach offers a haven for physical, mental and emotional renewal. A couples massage in the Spa or an in-room treatment is a holiday ‘must’.
With close proximity to many famous restaurants and beach bars, the world-class marina, and great shopping at Luxury Avenue, the Hacienda Beach Club and Resort delivers a small village feel in the heart of Cabo San Lucas. Come discover this unforgettably, iconic residential development, on the Sea of Cortez. Visit www.haciendacabosanlucas.com.
The Reef by CuisinArt – A New Way to Enjoy Anguilla
Coming this November, the luxe island of Anguilla will welcome a new extension of the CuisnArt Golf Resort & Spa. The Reef by CuisinArt – a beachfront contemporary oasis featuring 80 suites, directly on the Caribbean Sea is Anguilla’s premiere luxury destination and the newest addition to the CuisinArt family of hotels & resorts.
The Reef by CuisinArt
Inviting you to discover the best of Anguilla from the moment you enter the dramatic lobby, guest will enjoy a lobby bar, fitness center with Technogym Excite Line, aqua cycling bikes and Unity Displays, complimentary watersports, two tennis courts, a boutique and library.
The Lobby
A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, The Reef’s 80 rooms will include 25 Golf-view Junior Suites and 25 Sea-view Junior Suites in the main building. Four additional beachfront buildings will house 30 more stunning suites, including Corner and Superior Beachfront Junior Suites. Two Deluxe Beachfront Junior Suites will feature private and dramatic outdoor Jacuzzis.
Suite Balcony
All accommodation amenities will include: a TV system with state-of-the-art technology, bedside “smart” control panels, Tivoli Bluetooth enabled audio systems, and more. Bathroom amenities will include products by Rusk and L’Occitane, as well as double sinks, a separate shower, and a freestanding Alissa oval bath for the ultimate in comfort and indulgence.
CuisinArt Golf Clubhouse Entry
The Reef represents Anguilla’s newest luxury destination and the newest hotel addition to the CuisinArt family. The property, replete with exciting ensuite amenities and distinctive features, will truly epitomize a chic beachside resort with an urban flair. – Stephane Zaharia, Vice President and General Manager of both The Reef and CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa
With dining experiences that go above and beyond, the hotel’s culinary teams have created menus featuring locally-sourced items and ingredients from the Hydroponic Farm. Soak in the pristine beachfront and Anguilla sun while enjoying island cuisine at Breezes, a top-class beachfront restaurant and bar which will satisfy your Caribbean cravings for incredible settings and great food. The Yacht Club, opening to the beautiful pool with serve breakfast and lunch, as well as dinner surrounded by a stunning nautical setting.
Reef Dining Italia at the Clubhouse
Guests will have access to all the amenities of CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa, including preferred rates and tee-times at the 18-hole Greg Norman Signature design championship course and to the award-winning Venus Spa, as well as signing privileges at all facilities and dining venues.
CuisinArt Golf Club
Rates will start at $500.00 and requests for advance reservations can be made via the Pre-Reservations Request Form on the web-site. Visit http://www.thereefbycuisinart.com for more information and reservations.
In Luxury Living International’s newest series, we are shining the spotlight on some of the best destinations in South America. In this installment, we focus on the happening coastal town of Punta del Este in Uruguay.
Have you considered tasting the good life in South America? While Central American countries such as Panama, Costa Rica, or Mexico have become well-established luxury havens, would-be expats, retirees, and holiday-makers are increasingly looking at their South American counterparts for a slice of the good life abroad. Offering some of the same benefits as the latter (that is, a lenient climate, relaxed lifestyle, friendly people and prices, and the chance to enjoy lush nature and beaches) but also offering abundant history, underexploited potential, and even more bang for your buck, countries like Uruguay, Argentina, Ecuador, and Colombia boast plenty of assets to tempt even the most discerning and demanding of buyers.
The Expat and Holiday Capital of Uruguay
Those who have made the move all claim it: Punta del Este offers the best quality of life in Uruguay, if not in South America. It’s not hard to understand the enthusiasm: this laid-back, seaside resort in one of the continent’s most developed countries offers a great compromise between South American culture and international standards of living. The year-round pleasant weather, white sand beaches, and vast estates have been attracting a growing community of in-the-know US and European expats who have contributed to the dynamization of the area while preserving some of its small-town feel (the year-round population is only estimated at 9,280, although this number goes up considerably in high season).
While some of its neighbors have been struggling, Uruguay enjoys a rather stable political and economic situation, and residents of the Punta del Este Peninsula benefit from clean, safe, and practical living conditions. Convenience however does not mean boring: the region offers countless land and water pastimes, including horse-riding, golfing, and jet skiing. Yacht owners can indulge in island excursions, while birdwatchers and wine-lovers will revel in the region’s exotic bird species and boutique vintages.
Real Estate Opportunities and Luxury Properties
As the country of estancias (ranches), Uruguay offers a wide range of luxury properties, from top-notch modern developments to grand historic buildings. If you’re considering finding a piece of paradise in Punta del Este, here are three examples of what your money could buy:
Those looking for harmony with nature and an outdoors lifestyle will be charmed by the exquisite open design of La Chacra (The Farm). This 300m², 4-suites/6-bathrooms property advertised by Christie’s blends the boundaries of indoors and outdoors living, with large glass windows opening onto the surrounding land and water, letting in plenty of natural light. Besides the beautifully-crafted interior, what makes this property truly special is its extensive outdoor space: located in one of Punta del Este’s most exclusive areas, it comes with its own 200m of coastline, a swimming-pool, a tennis court, several waterside sundecks and terraces, and your own private dock.
For $6 million dollars, you could own this elegantly-furnished, picture-perfect modern residence by the sea in one of Punta del Este’s most desirable locations. Its six bedroom suites, large living areas, manicured lawns, and great swimming-pool with bar space make this Sotheby’s villa an ideal place both to relax in nature and to entertain.
If your idea of luxury is more old-world charm and character, you may find it hard to resist this majestic manor listed by Christie’s. The interior of this mini-palace located only 10 minutes from the heart of Punta del Este is all marble pillars, fireplaces and double ceilings, and the only risk is getting lost in its 8 bedrooms and 12 bathrooms. The property further boasts 22,000m of rolling lawns and landscaped grounds, both an indoor and outdoor (pictured at the top of the article) swimming-pool, a hot tub, and a tennis court.
Hairstylist to the stars Jen Atkin has become a celebrity in her own right thanks to her It Girl favorite haircare line OUAI. A must for every chic #shelfie, the high-end brand has a product for every type of mane – including your pet’s!
Set to launch July 12th, OUAI’s ultra-gentle Pet Shampoo is a spa day necessity for fabulous fur-babies. It’s infused with “odor-fighting cleansers and nourishing conditioners to increase shine and reduce knotty-ness,” using only the finest ingredients for your main b*tch, as the site claims.
Purr-fect for all of our four-legged friends (including kitties!), the shampoo is free of parabens, sulfates and phthalates, and features Apple Cider Vinegar, Aloe Leaf Juice, and Tamarind Seed Extract.
Pamper your pet and participate in some philanthropy! 15% of all proceeds will support the Vanderpump Dog Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit charity that is working on both a domestic and international scale to help create a better world for dogs!
This is paws-sibly the best way to treat your furry bestie.
Bougie markets / uber healthy cafes are becoming a dime a dozen in New York. But that being said, God knows there’s still plenty of creative avenues left to be explored.
And Midtown East’s newly opened Clean Market has done just that. Part market, part tonic bar, this sure to be health hot spot has a long list of tasty superfood smoothies to choose from, and an even longer list of add-on boosters. Throw in a shot of everything from probiotics to ground chia, from blue majik (?) to pearl (again, ?). Or for those of you more adventurous smoothie enthusiasts, there’s their most intriguing, eyebrow raising booster – CBD.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! New York City’s biannual Restaurant Week is officially open for reservations. From July 23rd to August 17th, some of the top eateries in town are offering delicious deals, with 2-course lunches for $26 and 3-course dinners for just $42. Fancy foodies rejoice – these luxury spots are prime for the picking.
Bâtard
With Michelin stars and a James Beard Award, Bâtard is a modern European gem in Tribeca. Indulge in elegant, seasonal dishes by Chef Markus Glocker, including salmon rillettes and fennel pollen pasta. FYI, the wine list is also exceptional.
Dress your best and head to the Upper East Side’s iconic Pierre Hotel for some French-American fare at Perrine. The newly re-imagined space features an outdoor seating area ideal for chic people-watching.
For an upscale lunch situation, Nougatine at Jean-Georges is your best bet. Sample some of the chef’s world-renowned cuisine in a fabulous (but more casual) setting.
More health-conscious diners will appreciate ABC Kitchen, another Jean-Georges production known as a favorite among the A-list. Fresh, organic ingredients on your plate, and a supermodel or two sitting at the next table over. We mean, if Gwyneth approves…
In the mood for #extra? The expansive Hunt & Fish Club features three gorgeously designed rooms that are dripping with luxury. The Midtown hot spot boasts an innovative menu of steak and game, and it’s perfect for a pre- or post-theater meal. Why not make a night of it?
Calling all ladies who lunch. Run by chef Aaron Bludorn, Daniel Boulud’s charming Upper East Side eatery is a tribute to France. Fill up on shrimp tartine and roasted pork loin while pretending you’re in a hidden cafe in Europe.
With plush interiors and Chef Geoffrey Zakarian’s new American fare, The Lambs Club is always worth checking into. A sense of Old School New York accompanies every dish, and you and your company will feel especially chic.
Dive into the award-winning seafood of restaurateur Cameron Mitchell’s iconic Ocean Prime. After all the lobster bisque and teriyaki salmon you can handle, make sure to save room for the five layer carrot cake. Yum.
Apparently there’s something very precious about ice cream. It’s distinctly nostalgic, tied to childhood memories and better times. Perhaps that’s why people get so mad when anyone tries to mess with it.
Nevertheless, we just can’t resist sharing news of yet another non-traditional summer treat hitting the city: Hummus Ice Cream. Seriously.
But before you start throwing things, hear us out!
The sweet concoction comes from one of our favorite fast-casual Mediterranean spots, The Hummus & Pita Co. Launching this Sunday (National Ice Cream Day), the hummus scoops will be jam-packed with protein rich chickpeas, tahini, and pure vanilla, along with creamifying add-ins like coconut cream and almond milk. Available in four flavors (chocolate, banana, strawberry, and cookies & cream), the ice cream is certifiably gluten-free, vegan, and – dare we say it? – healthy. Plus, it just looks delicious. How can you possibly complain?!
Whether you’re in the mood to pop bottles at a rosé mansion or slip into a dream at a nap station, there are plenty of ‘grammable ways to spend your weekend right here in the city. From art installations to experiential pop-ups, click through for everything set to swallow your feed! Make sure to plan your #OOTD accordingly.
The Bulletproof Pop-Up
The West Coast wellness and lifestyle brand known for promoting butter coffeehas landed in NYC with their first ever pop-up experience. The “human upgrade” facility dedicated to biohacking, or tweaking your biology for better performance, features all sorts of healthy innovations, from an oxygen bar to a whole body vibration plate garden – you know, along with fun interiors and ‘grammable neon signs. Open through August 2nd!
That buzzed-about Rosé Mansion is officially open in NYC! Pop bottles, bathe in flower petals, and travel the world within this multi-story interactive experience. It’s almost too Insta-worthy (but we’re not complaining).
The sign may say “sugar free,” but this is the sweetest photo opportunity around. Concept shop American Two Shot has turned its retail space into a straight-up candyland, teaming up with artist Robyn Blair and NAMEGLO Neon Studioto create a deliciously dreamy display. Let them ‘gram cake!
It’s 2018 and mattress brands are trendy. Casper, the bed every cool girl sleeps on, has unveiled The Dreamery, a star-lit pop-up that’s essentially a nap station. Um, why hasn’t anyone thought of this sooner?! Tired New Yorkers can slip into their own comfy nook for a recharge, complete with luxe Sleepy Jones pajamas, amenities by Sunday Riley, and magical audio by Headspace.
Greenpoint creative space A/D/O is full of must-see design and site-specific installations, such as this trippy piece, titled “Spirit of the City,” in its courtyard. Mirror mirror, on the wall…
Running through Sunday at Brookfield Place, “Animal Soul” is the work of artist Jason Hackenwerth, featuring giant balloon sculptures and live organisms that dance with passerby.
We know New Yorkers can’t resist an enviable rooftop pool situation. This weekend marks the debut of The Williamsburg Hotel’s chic new pool lounge. Striped day beds, stunning skyline views, and booze – what more could you need?
Heading to The Rockaways? Make sure to check out Yayoi Kusama’s surreal new installation in Fort Tilden. First presented in 1966, “Narcissus Garden” consists of 1,500 mirrored spheres of stainless steel, scattered around the now-abandoned industrial building to create a surreal landscape loaded with political and social commentary (we mean, isn’t social media turning us all into Narcissus? Talk about reflection…).
As if the luxury campgrounds at Arlo Sohocould get any more ‘grammable! In honor of National Ice Cream Day this Sunday, head to the downtown hot spot, which has partnered with Tipsy Scoop and Muddling Memories for a menu full of boozy ice cream treats and chill cocktails – and don’t worry, the portable cart will remain on site all summer long.
Prefer a healthier indulgence? Stop into The Hummus & Pita Co. this Sunday to try their new VEGAN Hummus Ice Cream. The guilt-free treat (available in four mouthwatering flavors) is jam-packed with protein rich chickpeas, tahini, and pure vanilla, along with creamifying add-ins like coconut cream and almond milk. #EEEEEATS fit for a fit chick, for sure.
