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Posts Tagged ‘Old Fashioned Mom Real Estate’

 

Belmond Ltd. has announced the purchase of the prestigious Cap Juluca luxury resort on the Caribbean island of Anguilla, British West Indies.  Purchased for $84.6 Million the acquisition of the 96-key resort is expected to close by early June 2017.

Roeland Vos, president and chief executive officer, commented, “ I am delighted to announce the addition of the legendary Cap Juluca to the Belmond portfolio. This acquisition marks an important milestone in the execution of our 2020 strategic growth plan, which includes as a central component the expansion of our global footprint. Cap Juluca, which was designed and developed by Linda and Charles Hickox, has been synonymous with barefoot luxury since it opened in 1988. The exclusive resort complements our brand by offering an authentic escape to discerning guests, increases our presence in a location where our customers already travel, and enhances our positioning in the global luxury resort market.”

luxury hotel news caribbean

As one of the most recognized resorts in the Caribbean, Cap Juluca is a natural fit for the Belmond portfolio and we look forward to continuing the legacy the Hickoxes created nearly 30 years ago – Roeland Vos, President and CEO, Belmond LTD

Located on one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches on the southwestern coast of Anguilla at Maundays Bay, the multiple award-winning Cap Juluca was voted the number one beach resort in the world in Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report’s 2016 readers’ choice awards. Introduced in 1988 and quickly established as one of the top resorts in the Caribbean, the property features stylish Greco-Moorish architecture spread over two crescent-shaped coves. In addition to 96 keys, the resort features four restaurants and bars; an 1,800 square-foot pool; tennis courts and fitness center; a library and private screening room; and a full complement of watersports activities.

anguilla luxury resort news

After planning and obtaining all necessary permits in 2017, Belmond expects to embark upon a renovation of the existing property and develop a further 25 new beachfront keys, bringing the resort’s total inventory to 121 keys after the 2018 season.

The comprehensive renovation of the existing property is expected to include the refurbishment of all 96 existing keys; improved food and beverage concepts; upgrades to the spa; and new and renovated public areas. Belmond expects to spend a combined approximate $36 million on the renovation and expansion projects, which it expects to complete by the end of 2018 with a total investment in the property is expected to be approximately $1.0 million per key.

Visit CapJuluca.com

 

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Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, the world’s leading luxury hospitality company, has now opened the doors of the Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Anguilla.

Shifting management from what once was the Viceroy Anguilla, this shift represents a positive change for Anguilla, given Four Seasons’ large scale global network and marketing expertise, as well as its 25 year presence in the Caribbean.

“This is a unique opportunity to extend our presence in the Caribbean and offer luxury travellers a Four Seasons experience at the best resort property on the island,” comments J. Allen Smith, President and CEO of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “This is our first venture with Starwood Capital Group and we look forward to leveraging our combined strengths and shared commitment to excellence as we introduce a world-class Four Seasons resort to Anguilla…”

four seasons and private residences

Situated on 3,200ft of the pristine beachfront shores of the island, Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Anguilla will feature 166 accommodations including dedicated resort guest rooms, whole-ownership beachfront private residences, 5,000 square-foot villas, and vacation rental units. Offering a blend of high-end luxury coupled with a warm and welcoming atmosphere popular with families and celebrities alike, guests and residents of Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Anguilla will enjoy access to world-class cuisine in five spectacular dining and lounge selections, an 8,100 square-foot spa and a wide variety of water-sport activities, three championship tennis courts.

The picturesque island of Anguilla is known for its iconic white powder sandy beaches, turquoise waters, tranquil bays, billionaire villas and movie star spottings. The property will showcase the island’s seaside glamour as it combines sleek, modern design and stunning natural surroundings with Four Seasons’ legendary quality and service.

four seasons anguilla resort

About Four Seasons Resorts and Hotels

For 50 years the Canadian-based company has created a legacy that has earned well deserved awards and recognition. The majority of its resorts and hotels have been awarded the AAA Five Diamond Award. They also been named in past years on Conde Nast Traveler’s Hot and Gold List, Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards, and among other popular well-known travel sites. Four Seasons has been transforming the hospitality industry with its outstanding service to their guests and setting the bar high for luxury travel destinations.

For more information about Four Seasons Anguilla visit FourSeasons.com

 

 

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Purchased by the A-List celebrity in 2007, Mel Gibson’s impressive luxury estate in Costa Rica is for sale. Previously listed by the actor in 2015, the $29.75 million sprawling beachfront estate is once again up for grabs. Quite spectacular and extremely remote, this luxury home in Costa Rica is set on a hilltop overlooking the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Mel Gibson’s “Playa Barrigona” brings a relaxing tropical ambiance, stunning views, and in true luxury fashion – a helipad.

mel gibson luxury estate home in costa rica

Christie’s International Real Estate

Commanding breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the Villas at Playa Barrigona are located in the prestigious Nicoya Peninsula in the province of Guanacaste. Offering generous living spaces, stunning views and superb comfort, the celebrity real estate owned by Mel Gibson is situated among 500 sprawling acres of private Jungle in Costa Rica. This impressive beachfront estate is comprised of three separate homes nestled on the hilltop and are just a short walk away to a secluded white-sand beach.

luxury homes costa rica

Christie’s International Real Estate

Comprised of three separate villas, spread across 12 bedrooms and 14 baths, Playa Barrigona is both wonderfully private and brings you the utmost in attention to detail. Discover custom-fitted with native Costa Rican woods and Spanish and Italian tiles, an open living room with vaulted ceilings, a full chef’s kitchen, and multiple verandas boasting breathtaking Pacific Ocean and jungle vistas.

luxury real estate costa rica

Christie’s International Real Estate

At the largest of the villas, Casa Guanacaste, you will find seven bedrooms and eight baths. Each of the two smaller villas, Casa Barrigona and Casa Dorada, feature two bedrooms and additional living spaces. Completing the amenities of this estate are a private pool, spectacular outdoor barbecue area and full air conditioning.

celebrity homes costa rica

Christie’s International Real Estate

The nearby villages of Samara and Nosara offer local conveniences as well as quaint restaurants and shops, and international visitors can arrive into either San José or Liberia airports. From the airport, a drive or a short commuter flight will provide direct access to Carrillo or Nosara.

celebrity homes costa rica

Christie’s International Real Estate

 

Gibson has owned a small, yet impressive collection of international real estate, with homes in Malibu, Fiji, Montana, Greenwich, Australia and Los Angeles.

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luxury spas in the caribbean

 

Spending time in the sand and sun can be relaxing in and of itself, but if you really want to unwind there’s nothing like spending your time in a luxurious day spa. When choosing another place to buy a vacation home or even just vacation, spa amenities are usually at the top of most anyone’s lists.

Whether you’re stopping in to make use of their facilities or need a full overhaul, it’s like a vacation within itself. Of course, not just any rubdown will do. For the very best and most luxurious experiences, we’ve found the top ten spas in paradise for you to spend your days in and—if you’re lucky—to be able to live close to. Unsurprisingly, our choices take us around Latin America and the Caribbean and include some of what we at Luxury Living International think are the best real estate markets in 2017.

Eden Rock Spa, St Barths

eden rock st barths

If you find yourself in St Barths looking for a place to get away from your getaway, book an appointment at Eden Rock Spa by Ligne St Barth. In addition to personalized fitness and wellness classes, their spa fuses luxury and nature into one decadent oasis. Take a dip in their seawater thalassotherapy pools, carved from the rock face that juts into Baie de St Jean or plunge into a series of detoxing pools and baths. Each treatment is used with products manufactured exclusively on the island and for some services you can even taste the tropical fruit blends before they’re mixed with oils and elixirs to create lotions, masques and peels. The only problem? You might fall asleep mid-massage listening to the waves breaking on the shore.

Roaring Pavilion Villa & Spa, Jamaica

best spas

Jamaica is known for being a party paradise where you can let your hair down and have a wild time, but if you’re searching for a more relaxing, intimate experience, look no further than the island’s Roaring Pavilion Villa & Spa. The one-of-a-kind retreat is one of the Caribbean’s most private escapes where you can rent out an entire five bedroom estate, complete with its own full-service spa and personally assigned therapist. It’s a favorite of celebrities like Celine Dion and Nicole Kidman, who love to come here and unwind from the stresses of celebrity life.

La Prairie Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

spa vacations

Heading to the Ritz Carlton may seem like an obvious choice for a luxury spa getaway, but you can’t argue with perfection.  La Prairie Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman packs a double punch with the prestige of the Ritz name and the quality of La Prairie. From the white leather and sterling silver entrance, to its posh services, everything about this spa screams luxury. Opt for a caviar massage, a cellular Swiss ice crystal facial or the diamond perfection body treatment which scrubs you down with actual diamond powder, and you’ll feel like you’ve died and gone to heaven.

One & Only Ocean Club, Bahamas

bahamas luxury spas

While most spa treatments can be enjoyed privately, the spa at One & Only Ocean Club is meant for lovers. Inspired by Balinese design, the award-winning One & Only Spa was arranged with romance in mind, with each treatment villa containing side-by-side tables, a waterfall shower and a whirlpool big enough for two. Each service comes with a signature bathing ritual and an extra 30 minutes to relax and sip champagne together. The services are inspired by Asian traditions and influenced by the spices and minerals native to the Bahamas to offer couples a way to relax and reconnect together.

Condado Vanderbilt, Puerto Rico

luxury spas

The Condado Vanderbilt has one of the most luxurious and unique spas in Puerto Rico with a 10,000-square-foot facility including a lounge area, treatment rooms, outdoor showers, an outdoor terrace and the island’s first and only hammam. The spa prides itself on its unique blend of the most modern and holistic services, including their hammam ritual treatment which includes ancient purification rituals in the Turkish bath and hydro therapy. If you want to forgo the purification rites and spiritual energy work in place of something a little more contemporary, opt for a traditional massage, facial or scrub. Be forewarned, while their “Out of Body Experiences” may seem a little unusual, they are among the most popular treatments at the spa.

Rainforest Spa at Viceroy Sugar Beach, St Lucia

luxury spas

Imagine if the Swiss Family Robinson washed up on the shore of an island and decided to build themselves a luxury resort. Welcome to the Rainforest Spa at Viceroy Sugar Beach. Tucked away among the trees of St Lucia, between two pitons within a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Rainforest Spa consists of small tree houses that offer views of the jewel-colored coastline and mountain vistas. Their treatments rely on locally sourced ingredients like bananas, coconuts and aloe vera, and include everything from Sedona clay mud massages to papaya and pineapple scrubs. If you’re not a fan of heights, or graduated from the ideas of tree houses when you were ten, guests can always opt to have in-room or beachside services, though we wouldn’t pass up a chance to live like a Robinson for an hour or two.

Como Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos

luxury spas in paradise

Como Parrot Cay in Turks and Caicos offers guests everything from world-class dining to sunset cruises, but as a spa resort they pride themselves on top notch relaxation. Offering everything you need to refocus and heal, the Como Shambhala Retreatincludes yoga classes, restorative massages and Japanese baths. Each of their therapists are hand-selected and include a master Thai massage expert from Thailand, a former Buddhist monk who specializes in healing head massage, and an in-house team of doctors, therapists and experts that specialize in everything from stress management to diet. With their extensive number of services, treatments and classes it would be easy to spend a week on relaxation alone.

The FieldSpa at GoldenEye Hotel & Resort, Jamaica

jamaica spas

There’s a reason that the GoldenEye Hotel & Resort sounds like something out of a James Bond spy novel—the estate is the former home of Ian Fleming, the Bond author, and it’s where he wrote all 14 of his spy epics. Nestled on a lagoon, the spa offers a number of pampering treatments that all include locally sourced ingredients, like ginger and pimento oil from local farms and seaweed harvested in Oracabessa Bay. Services are given inside open air rooms and guests can kayak, (or swim!) across the lagoon from their rooms to their treatments. It’s all very 007.

Maya Tulum, Mexico

tulum spas

Spending the day soaking in the sun and sleeping the night away in your own private cabana can only be improved with the luxury of a spa. The Spa at Maya Tulum Resortoffers guests a way to unwind and get in touch with the area’s rich Mayan culture though therapeutic treatments inspired by the people’s native traditions. In addition to the basic services like Swedish massages and hydrating facials, they offer an entirely separate spa menu of Mayan specialties that use local ingredients and techniques that have been used for thousands of years. Try one of the masques and scrubs which are slathered on, left to set in the sun and rinsed off in the crystal-clear ocean, the way Mayans have been doing it for centuries.

Rancho Pacifico, Costa Rica

luxury spas costa rica

Award-winning ecoluxe resort Rancho Pacifico is known for its intimate villas, mountain top views and one-of-a-kind experiences–its also in Costa Rica, one of our top destinations for 2017. Outfitted with only 10 suites, guests are allowed plenty of space and privacy which includes treatments at the resort’s Spa Tranquila. Instead of a waiting room, guests relax in “anti-gravity chairs” before their service and can indulge in anything from a café mocha body scrub to an Ayurveda facial. To relax the day away, spa goers can also enjoy the facilities infinity-edge Jacuzzi and natural, Japanese-style, hot spring baths. Plus the entire resort is adults-only, so it’s the perfect opportunity for a couples to escape.

 

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Quincy Davis, a 23-year-old Montauk native, has long been a local celeb – tearing up waves with certified sponsorships since she was 12, and making the rounds at some of the chicest bashes on the East End.

This summer, the pro-surfer has added shopkeeper to her already impressive resume, opening up a beachy boutique aptly called Quincy (also known as Q). From the cute French doors to the adorable courtyard in the back, the space is everything she could have asked for.

The shop has a little bit of everything for a weekend getaway in Montauk, from our favorite Lingua Franca sweaters to skincare trailblazer Beauty Counter. Quincy noted her love for jumpsuits and dresses and she was wearing a beautiful piece from Spell; a boho-chic Australian brand. Her jewelry collaboration with California designer Heidi Merrick is complemented by some contemporary cozy sweaters. When we caught up with her at the opening, Quincy was also wearing shoppable pieces by her friend Rachel Goldberg.

The pop-up definitely highlights Quincy’s style in and out of the ocean. Quincy is now open, so be sure to stop by and treat yourself to something special. If you don’t see the surfer babe in the water you can find her behind the counter, or continuing to give back to the community with her humanitarian efforts. Click through for an inside look, and some of Quincy’s thoughts on the new venture!

Quincy, 805 Montauk Highway

 

What inspired you to open the store?

I’ve always been in love with the space. It reminded me of the surfboard shack my dad built for me. Also Happy Bowls, my brother’s place, is right next door, so I thought why not do it?

 

 

What are some of your favorite items in the store?

There are amazing bikinis by Girl in The Water, and I love dresses and jumpsuits so I have a great brand named Spell. I also did a jewelry collab with Heidi Merrick, her dad is my surfboard shaper! I love all Warm products and am friends with Winnie who comes out to Montauk a lot.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Written By: Raya O’Neal

 

At 89 years old, iconic Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama has been making Instagrammable art long before Instagram was even a thing (…long before cell phones were even a thing). I guess back then we just called it “art.”

Famous among millennials thanks to her selfie-worthy infinity rooms, Kusama is back in NYC with yet another epic installation made to be photographed.

 

Taking over a former train garage in Fort Tilden, Queens, “Narcissus Garden” debuted this Sunday as part of MoMA PS1’s Rockaway!, a free public art festival presented in collaboration with the Rockaway Artists Alliance, Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy, National Park Service, and Bloomberg Philanthropies in the Gateway National Recreation Area at 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…).

The installation is on view through September 3rd at Gateway National Recreation Area at Fort Tilden.

 

Written By: Stephanie Maida

Easy Pie Crust

 

Prep now and enjoy wonderful pies all summer. Make the crust and topping ahead, and keep them in the freezer.

 

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

  1.  To make the dough for the pie crust, mix 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon each salt and sugar in a medium-size bowl. Cut 2 sticks chilled unsalted butter into pieces. With a pastry blender, cut in butter, working until mixture resembles coarse meal.
  2.  Add 4 tablespoons ice water; work with hands until dough comes together. If dough is still crumbly, add more ice water a tablespoon at a time (up to 4 more tablespoons). Do not overwork.
  3.  Divide dough in half, and flatten halves into disks. Wrap disks separately in plastic; refrigerate at least 1 hour.
  4. To form the pie shell, roll the dough on a floured surface into a 14-inch round. Wrap around rolling pin and carefully unroll over a 9-inch pie plate.
  5.  Fit gently into bottom and side of plate. Use kitchen shears to trim dough to a 1-inch overhang; fold under, and seal to form a rim.
  6.  Crimp rim with fingertips and knuckle. Repeat with remaining dough; wrap each with plastic, stack, and freeze.

 

Written By: Martha Stewart

 

This oven roasted chicken recipe showcases juicy, flavorful chicken thighs with a lemony sauce that bakes itself in the pan. Roasted chicken thighs are the ideal weeknight dinner for busy families.

 

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

  1.  In a bowl, toss chicken thighs with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper and marinate 1 hour (or up to a day).
  2.  Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Roast chicken, skin side down, in an oiled roasting pan, 20 to 25 minutes; flip and roast 10 more minutes.
  3.  Stir together grainy mustard and honey and season with salt and pepper. Brush glaze onto chicken and broil 5 minutes.

 

Written By: Martha Stewart

basic sugar cookies stars

 

Sugar cookies are a buttery classic that make a delicious anytime treat. Enjoy your sugar cookies plain, or decorate them with icing to make them festive. This recipe is a favorite of Martha’s, who likes to add 1 tablespoon cognac alongside the egg and vanilla, after creaming together the butter and sugar.

 

INGREDIENTS

Sugar Cookies

Icing

DIRECTIONS

  1.  In large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. With an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla. With mixer on low, gradually add flour mixture; beat until combined. Divide dough in half; flatten into disks. Wrap each in plastic; freeze until firm, at least 20 minutes, or place in a resealable plastic bag, and freeze up to 3 months (thaw in refrigerator overnight).
  2.  Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line baking sheets with parchment. Remove one dough disk; let stand 5 to 10 minutes. Roll out 1/8 inch thick between two sheets of floured parchment, dusting dough with flour as needed. Cut shapes with cookie cutters. Using a spatula, transfer to prepared baking sheets. (If dough gets soft, chill 10 minutes.) Reroll scraps; cut shapes. Repeat with remaining dough.
  3.  Bake, rotating halfway through, until edges are golden, 10 to 18 minutes (depending on size). Cool completely on wire racks. To ice cookies, spread with the back of a spoon. Let the icing harden, about 20 minutes. Decorate as desired.
  4. For the icing, sift confectioners’ sugar into a small bowl. Whisk in milk, water, or lemon juice, 1 tablespoon at a time, until smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If too thin, whisk in more sugar; if too thick, add more liquid. Spread over cookies with back of a spoon. Add other decorations, if desired. Let the icing harden, about 20 minutes.

COOK’S NOTES

Use flour on utensils to keep dough from sticking: Dip the cookie cutters, and dust the spatula before transferring uncooked dough to a sheet. Rolling dough between two sheets of floured parchment will keep it from sticking to the rolling pin. You can store cookies in airtight containers at room temperature, up to 1 week.

 

Written By: Martha Stewart

 

Get a head start on dinner with this fresh take on a slow-simmered, all-in-one meal that makes clean-up a breeze.

 

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

DIRECTIONS

  1.  In slow cooker, stir together cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water until smooth. Add carrots and onions; season with salt and pepper, and toss.
  2.  Sprinkle roast with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper; place on top of vegetables, and drizzle with Worcestershire. Cover; cook on high, 6 hours (or on low, 10 hours).
  3.  Transfer roast to a cutting board; thinly slice against the grain. Place vegetables in a serving dish; pour pan juices through a fine-mesh sieve, if desired. Serve roast with vegetables and pan juices.

COOK’S NOTES

Oven method: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In step 1, use a 5-quart Dutch oven or ovenproof pot with a tight-fitting lid; add 2 cups water. Cover; bake until roast is tender, 3 1/2 to 4 hours. Proceed with step 3.
Written By: Martha Stewart