Luxe life at Paseo Caribe

Puerto Rico welcomes its newest upscale residential project.

Paseo Caribe, a high-end residential and retail waterfront property, is emerging in Puerto Rico. The mixed-use development, which was recently relaunched, will include the Residences at Caribe Plaza, Laguna Plaza, and Bahia Plaza, along with an open-air retail lifestyle center and parking complex.

Located on Ponce de Leon Avenue at the Gateway to Old San Juan, Paseo Caribe is steps from Condado Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean. The signature element of the public area is the Residents’ Lounge and outdoor entertainment space, which overlook the retail courtyard and offer dramatic waterfront views.

The centerpiece of the project will be The Shops at San Geronimo, which will offer a mix of Puerto Rican merchants combined with global retailers and several waterfront dining and entertainment venues. When complete, the retail complex will house between 40 and 50 specialty shops, boutiques, and restaurants.

Residences in both Caribe Plaza and Laguna Plaza offer outdoor terraces and spectacular views of the Condado Lagoon, Atlantic Ocean, and Old San Juan’s cruise ship harbor. Each private residence has beautiful views, spacious living and dining rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, and a separate den. Both towers provide a highly curated lifestyle including concierge services, valet parking, and state-of-the-art security systems.

Construction of Paseo Caribe is now fully under way. A limited number of residences was released in March 2012, as well as a limited number of developer residential inventory in both Caribe Plaza and Laguna, as part of the formal reintroduction of Paseo Caribe. Prices start at $945,000. paseocaribe.com.

Beloved by affluent travelers for it ultra-exclusivity and collection of lavish villas, the Caribbean island of Mustique now boasts two new vacation properties, the villas Sienna and Tanama.

Sienna, the latest villa built on Mustique, boasts Italian-style architecture and features two pools, five bedrooms with large marble bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, a media room, a gym, and views of the Atlantic. A five-person staff includes a chef, a housekeeper, and a gardener.

Nestled in the Endeavour foothills of Mustique, the Oliver Messel-inspired villa Tanama, Mustique’s other new addition, is situated within easy reach of the island’s facilities: tennis courts, stables, dive shop, beaches, and bars. Tanama is outfitted with four bedrooms, a media room, a 48-foot pool with sun loungers, and a pavilion for al fresco entertaining. A large Kawasaki Mule and a jeep are also provided, making for easy exploring around the island.

In addition to its new villas, Mustique’s offerings now include new fitness options: Tennercize is a group cardio-tennis activity based on drills that give participants a rigorous workout while sharpening their skills. Meanwhile, Get Fit!, Mustique’s new personal trainer program, offers customized workouts—cardio boxing on the beach, yoga, or a hike along the 2.2-mile Fitness Trail—for guests hoping for specific results and workout solutions. To complement the program’s exercise component, a villa chef prepares meals that help participants maintain a suggested diet plan during their stay. Get Fit! is offered December through April, and in July and August. . —L.L.

[Show as slideshow]

[View with PicLens]

For many a traveler, airport lounge access has become more of a necessity than a luxury. Now offering more than just business perks like WiFi, fax machines, and workspaces, airport lounges across the world are design-driven sanctuaries with complimentary libations, snacks, and self-pampering. However, restricting lounge access to just first- or business-class passengers is a thing of the past. Now, savvy travelers can reap the same benefits, thanks to economic and strategic methods.

American Express Platinum. Simply owning and flashing an American Express Platinum Card (americanexpress.com/platinum) grants access to the American Airlines Admirals Club, Delta Sky Club, and US Airways Club for two passengers when flying coach on the respective airline. Another valuable lounge perk of The Platinum Card: a Priority Pass Gold Card, providing complimentary entry to 600 third-party lounges around the globe.

Other credit cards. The United MileagePlus Club Card (united.com) permits lounge access to all United Club Lounges, regardless of the airline flown. The airline’s lower-fee MileagePlus Explorer Card arrives with a pair of United Club Lounge passes as an introductory bonus. Moreover, the Citi Executive/AAdvantage Mastercard offers Admirals Club Membership Privileges; however, if you already have an AmEx Platinum, the benefits of this card are few.

Annual Memberships. If you’re loyal to a single airline and spend time transferring through its hubs, then the hefty fee for an annual lounge membership (average $400) might be worthwhile. In some cases, these annual memberships will also get you into partner lounges through the airline’s larger alliance.

Day Passes. Forgoing the long-term commitment of an annual membership, day passes are available for the domestic lounges of most U.S. major airlines. Day passes average $50/person at the door, often with a significant discount for pre-purchase online.

Third-Party Options. A Priority Pass Card (prioritypass.com) grants access to 600-plus airline-owned and private lounges with varying levels of memberships, depending on travel frequency. Lounge Pass (loungepass.com) allows passengers to pre-book a day pass at private international airport lounges, with fees starting at $29.

Elite Status. In some cases, high elite status translates to free lounge access. Gold status or higher on US Airways or United is your ticket in to most global Star Alliance lounges, if you’re carrying a same-day international ticket. Gold Medallion status or higher on Delta serves as your pass to the SkyTeam lounges when you fly internationally.

A native of Palm Beach, Florida, Christopher Pulitzer Leidy was practically born loving the beach. Today, Leidy, an avid surfer and grandson of designer Lilly Pulitzer, channels his passion for the sea into his own successful photography business, Leidy Images. Of his evolution as an underwater photographer, Leidy says, “From day one, I have had salt water rushing through my veins. I grew up surfing and fishing off my home coast of Palm Beach, and I was fortunate enough later in life to spend several months out of the year diving and fishing through the southern Bahamas on my grandfather’s boat, the Sea Hunter.”

When Leidy returned from those trips, he brought back “amazing stories of riding whale sharks, diving in schools of sharks, and catching 500-pound blue marlin” to share with friends. “For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to share…tales of my excursions, global travels, and experiences,” he says.

That’s precisely what Leidy accomplishes through his photography, counting singer Jimmy Buffett and New York real estate tycoon Douglas Durst among the high-profile clients who own pieces of Leidy’s imagery, some of which he captured in places like French Polynesia, Panama, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic. Leidy says he still loves the Bahamas and shoots there often (“because of color and beautiful whale shark encounters”), as well as in the South Pacific.

Wherever his travels take him, Leidy says his goal is to soak in the sights and experiences each destination affords him and to create a collection of photographs that not only appeals to ocean enthusiasts, but contemporary fine art lovers as well. Apparently, he’s well on his way—Leidy frequently exhibits his work around the U.S., with 2012 exhibits including Christie’s “Green Auction” Bid To Save The Earth in New York City (“It was unreal”); the NYC Affordable Art Fair; a solo show at 4 Times Square in New York City, a.k.a. the headquarters of global publishing juggernaut Condé Nast; and Art Basel in June. For Chris Leidy, life really is a day at the beach. —L.L.

Your sun-swept getaway should be all about indulgence. So along with the chic swimwear and cover-up, designer shades, and great beach read, add a luxurious towel to your list of must-have trip essentials. When you’re relaxing by the water’s side, cocktail in hand, not just any terrycloth towel will do. These stylish options are plush enough—some in 100-percent Egyptian or Turkish cotton—to keep you oh-so-comfortable, and yet they make a bold statement with geometric prints and vibrant, captivating colors. Your day in the sun just got brighter. Lulu DK Matouk beach towels, $95 each, Pioneer Linens, West Palm Beach, 800-207-5463, pioneerlinens.com.

Editor’s PicksTwo more perfect beach accessories.

1Paul Smith stripe-trim beach towel, $145, Saks Fifth Avenue. 2Paul Smith multi-stripe beach towel, $145, Saks Fifth Avenue.

[Show as slideshow]

[View with PicLens]

Angus Mitchell

Angus Mitchell, co-owner of Paul Mitchell Systems, knows a thing or two about beauty—and we aren’t just talking hair.

As co-owner of Paul Mitchell Systems, world-renowned stylist and educator Angus Mitchell keeps a jet-setter’s schedule, traveling between his namesake salons and endless engagements. In between, Mitchell, son of late hair-cutting guru Paul Mitchell, finds time to recharge at his coastal properties in Hawaii, Canada, and Southern California. —L.L.

You spend a lot of time considering aesthetics. How does that affect how you see your homes? I see hair through architecture and design; I am sensitive to form and function through structure. I apply the same vision to hair as I do to my homes. My father purchased the land at Lanikai in the ’80s but never lived to see the construction through to completion. I have redesigned and redecorated different elements of the estate to enhance the natural coastal environment. I am currently going through a major renovation that incorporates surprise elements of design that I spent planning out in detail in my head before committing it to a blueprint. Lanikai embodies my deep appreciation for art and localism.

What other properties do you own? I recently purchased a 2,600-square-foot house on Victoria Beach in Laguna, California. Victoria Beach is known as the birthplace of skimboarding. The house was was built in 2006; it’s a Cape Cod-style home that leads directly onto the beach. Victoria Beach is my Hawaiian paradise in California; I call it “Hawaii nice.” The beaches are impeccable and I can truly relax and connect with the power of the ocean when I am there.

We hear you also have a place in Canada. I own a 27-acre private island in Canada, with a 6,000-square-foot home. It is a fishing/hunting lodge built in 1902. We rent this home out for weddings, but this island is my rustic getaway. The views of the water from the hiking trails on the island are breathtaking. The water can get as warm as 80 degrees in the summer. It has a floating boathouse that garages the boats, the only transportation to and from the surrounding islands.

You support environmental initiatives. What’s your take on it? I believe in living life selflessly, not selfishly. On a greater scale, this mantra is pertinent to the preservation of Hawaii’s coastal land. In December 2011, I donated my favorite coastal property in Turtle Bay, Hawaii, to the Nature Conservancy. Together we are committed to protecting the land so that generations to come can appreciate [Hawaii’s] scenic and historical coastline.

[Show as slideshow]

[View with PicLens]

The Details The Paul Mitchell Estate, Lanikai, Hawaii. Bedrooms: 7. Bathrooms: 6 full, 5 half. Special features: Outdoor pool/Jacuzzi, massage/lounge area, and firepit. Land purchased: 1980s. Style: Polynesian.

Forty 1˚ North

In Newport, one of New England’s most beautiful and historic summer resort towns, Forty 1˚ North will have you in instant relaxation mode. By Andrew Conway

What is it about Newport, Rhode Island, that speaks of golden summers? The sound of sails flapping in the ocean breeze, the faint aroma of sea salt in the air, lazy days at the beach, a stroll in the gardens of a historic mansion, the thwack of tennis balls, or a sundowner with family and friends relaxing in traditional Adirondack loungers?

Whatever the reason—and there are scores to choose from—this classic harbor city never fails to deliver and delight. Dotted with first-rate hotels, must-reserve restaurants, stylish boutiques, and a host of vibrant attractions and colorful festivals, Newport comes alive during the summer months in a swirl of social activity.

At the center of it all lies Forty 1˚ North, a contemporary boutique hotel perched directly on the waterfront along Thames Street, and which has successfully established itself as the place to see and be seen since opening in 2010. A summer evening that starts with cocktails in the sleek Oval Bar, followed by a leisurely dinner in The Grill, and ends with a chilled glass of Champagne at the al fresco Pavilion Bar overlooking a private marina, is the very essence of Newport.

Upstairs, no expense has been spared on the 24 stylish guest rooms and suites, many with views of Newport Harbor and featuring Frette linens, soaking tubs, Malin+Goetz bath amenities, and up-to-the-minute accessories, such as in-room iPads. Each room is decked out in a stylish color palette of grays, taupes, and dark chocolate tones, cleverly blending modern luxury with coastal comfort. There are two Cottage Suites in separate buildings and two Loft Suites above neighboring Christie’s restaurant. (Be sure to check out the 41˚N Card, offering priority access, exclusive benefits, and special events during the summer.)

Arguably, Newport’s best dining and shopping is along Thames Street, brimming with whimsical boutiques, galleries, and antique stores. Dine at Thames Street Kitchen (thamesstreetkitchen.com), which delivers field-to-fork menus with produce from local growers; Restaurant Bouchard (restaurantbouchard.com) is perfect for a quiet, romantic dinner of gourmet French cuisine; and Christie’s at Forty 1˚ North has a funky and playful vibe featuring Asian-style tapas and classy cocktails. 41north.com.

The Agenda

No visit to Newport is complete without exploring at least one of the 11 iconic mansions in The Preservation Society’s unique collection. The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms are the grandest, but each of the others is also spectacular in its own right.

Hop in the car and take a spin around Ocean Drive, Newport’s most beautiful stretch of coastline and real estate. Alternatively, stroll the delightful 3.5-mile Cliff Walk past some of Newport’s gilded mansions.

It’s not Wimbledon, but Newport’s International Tennis Hall of Fame and Museum hosts pro and amateur tournaments during the summer, and the museum has fascinating memorabilia dating back to the 1800s.

A sunset cruise on Narragansett Bay aboard the elegant schooner Adirondack II is a quintessential Newport experience.

You don’t have to live in an oceanfront home—or ever have set foot on a beach, for that matter—to appreciate artist Carol Bennett’s sensual paintings of swimmers suspended in water. While those who have a penchant for all things aquatic will appreciate the prominence of water in Bennett’s works, her swimming-inspired paintings are sure to strike a mesmerizing chord in anyone who lays eyes on her art. That was the case for Lisa Cooper, art dealer and owner of the Riverdale, New York, gallery Elisa Contemporary Art, where Bennett’s works will be featured in a gallery show entitled “Strength & Grace” in June and July. Of Bennett’s underwater imagery, Cooper says, “I fell in love with her work when I first saw it. Her work is a meditative journey through both the water and through life.”

An L.A. native and 20-year inhabitant of Kaua’i, Hawaii, Bennett spends much of her life surrounded by—and submerged in—water, a fortunate circumstance that, ostensibly, informs much of her work. Says Cooper, “The viewer will experience being in a state of ‘flow’—where the currents of the ocean suspend life and self, and the unexpected floats to the surface.”

Despite her nod to the mystical nature of the sea—and further proof that the appeal of her work reaches beyond well-heeled beach bums—Bennett’s fascination with swimmers actually began when she was living in L.A. and swimming at the L.A. Athletic Club. “The floor beneath the pool, with its ethereal skylight, was an underwater observation room…” Bennett says. “I would feel like a voyeur, watching the swimmers’ private time and drawing in their beauty. I became the swimmer I observed in the images I later created.” It’s a scene that anyone fortunate enough to acquire a piece of the art will savor. “Suspense 4,” 2010, oil and acrylic on wood panel, 46”x74”, $22,000. Elisa Contemporary Art, elisacontemporaryart.com. —L.L.

 The Life Aquatic Four more underwater scenes by Hawaii artist Carol Bennett

1“Lagoon,” 2010, oil on wood panel, 32″ x 32″, $8,500. 2“Manganese,” 2010, oil on wood panel, 44″ x 44″, $10,000. 3 “Papillion,” 2009, oil on wood panel, 32″ x 32″, $8,500. 4 “Salmon 2,” 2010, oil on wood panel, 32″ x 32″, $8,500. All at elisacontemporaryart.com.

Cayago's Seabob

In terms of the superpowers we’d choose if given the chance, for many of us, flying like a bird is at the top of the list. And although many attempts have been made to realize that dream—think wearable wings and winged bicycles—for now, we’ll have to make do with airplanes, balloons, parachutes, and the myriad other inventions that somewhat simulate the act. If you prefer water rather than air, however, German company Cayago is realizing a dream for those of us who’d rather swim like a fish with the launch of its ocean-skimming personal water sports vehicle SEABOB. The chargeable, motorized SEABOB, which resembles a bobsled, allows users to cruise along and beneath the water’s surface at exciting speeds—up to 12.43 m.p.h. atop the water and up to 8.7 m.p.h. under it—without the interference of an intertube, raft, or other flotation device between themselves and the cool, clear sea. Hooked yet? Contact Fort Lauderdale’s National Marine Suppliers, the sole authorized dealer/service provider of SEABOB vehicles and accessories in North America. MSRP for Cayago’s SEABOB F7 starts at approximately $16,629. Visit seabobamerica.com for additional models and information.

The Envy: Kef Blade Loudspeaker

KEF’s newest speaker, the KEF Blade, combines precise sound imaging with elegant design. It offers the highest quality sound reproduction available through KEF’s Single Apparent Source technology, which ensures that the entire frequency range radiates from one point in space. The result? Sound that is virtually indistinguishable from a live performance. It looks great, too. The cabinet’s graceful curves are enclosed in an exceptionally rigid and heavy cabinet made from polished glass reinforced composite. the details: Available in Gloss White and Gloss Black, but will be available in custom colors ranging from Garnet to Pale Gold. $29,999. —S.O.

The Garden Pod

Garden Pods put a sci-fi—yet elegant—spin on al fresco entertaining. By F.E. Exley

If Steven Spielberg had become a designer rather than a film director, the Garden Pod might just be a product that he conjured.

Garden Pods are self-contained enclosed units that heighten the enjoyment of a backyard or garden. Think dinner with the family, drinks and cigars with the boys, even an outdoor office. These outdoor havens aren’t yet available in the U.S., but you can be the first on the block to have one when they become available in early 2013.

“The attraction is their flexibility. They can be anything you want them to be,” says Benjamin Hadley of Mars Lab, the company with exclusive rights to distribute the Garden Pod in the U.S.

Currently, Garden Pods come in four models: small, medium, the deluxe summerhouse, and the large diner pod. Note: Three of the models rotate 360 degrees; the large diner pod is stationary and can come with an optional solar panel with mood lighting.

Each pod can also be customized to the owner’s tastes—think interior color and upholstery. Models can also be equipped with touches like a cigar humidor, a bar, and media units.

Landscape architects are already excited for the export to arrive. “It works perfectly as a space within a space,” says Matt Preuss, a landscape architect based in Redondo Beach, California.

The Garden Pod’s appearance reminds some of a prop from a sci-fi flick, but Hadley says it blends well with any garden environment, mostly due to the materials used in its construction. “The pod mimics its environment,” he says, noting the core’s mirroring aspect. “The outer perimeter is made from sustainably farmed Norwegian treated pine. It’s 20 layers fused together.”

Able “to withstand the weather over time,” the pods are well suited for ocean climates, says Hadley. They are also resistant to mold and have UV protection. The Garden Pod should have success in the market if the continued trend of contemporary over classic holds steady, according to Hadley.

Of course, some homeowners just like the idea of “peculiar” spaces that create conversation. Pricing begins at $13,000 for the smallest pod, while the diner pod sells for $30,000; installation takes between one and two days.

The Get: Souluxe

There’s nothing like a soft glow to warm up an evening outdoors. It’s even better when the light source is sustainable. Meet SOULUXE, from Rotoluxe, makers of environmentally friendly display units. This line of sustainable containers can be used as tables, seating, and planters, but they are particularly appealing when lit, as their translucent material diffuses light to create a soft glow. They’re made from recycled plastic, and the containers and stands will remain lit for five-plus hours without need of a power supply. The most popular models (Vazon Magnum, Korto, Kvat, Tavo, and Chumbo) are $170;the Infinity Bench is $420; the Vazon Methuselah is $800.

Dolcevita

The Sweet Life Palm Beach welcomes Dolcevita.

ST Residential recently announced the opening of its newest property in Palm Beach, Dolcevita. The 34-unit luxury condominium is located on the pristine sands of Singer Island in exclusive Palm Beach Shores, offering residents a prime oceanfront location.

Two- and three-bedroom units are available, ranging from 1,960 to 4,000 interior and exterior square feet. Units feature floor-to-ceiling windows in living areas, expansive outdoor terraces, and Viking stainless-steel appliances. In addition to designer-ready residences, residents enjoy an outdoor fire pit, a summer kitchen, and a heated oceanfront pool with private cabanas. Additional amenities include direct beach access, valet parking, a fitness center, and 24-hour concierge services.

Nestled on historic Singer Island, Dolcevita offers the relaxed pace of an island lifestyle with long sandy beaches, gentle waters, and access to deep-sea activities, along with world-class entertainment, restaurants, and shopping. The area also attracts sports enthusiasts at the nearby PGA National Resort and Sailfish Marina Resort and Spa. Other area attractions include The Gardens Mall and CityPlace, making it an ideal residential enclave. Prices range from the mid-$400,000s up to $1.7 million. dolcevitapalmbeach.com.

Hilton Surfers Paradise

Surf Turf

Soaring above Australia’s iconic Gold Coast, Hilton Hotels & Resorts opened its newest leisure property in Australia—Hilton Surfers Paradise. The property has a total of 169 guest rooms, 250 modern one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences, and signature recreational amenities.  Property and service highlights include the first brand new eforea: spa at Hilton in Australia; the Salt Grill, a relaxed, stylish eatery that brings dining to a new level with celebrity chef and restaurateur Luke Mangan; an ultra-chic lounge bar, offering signature cocktails by renowned international mixologist Grant Collins; and Beach Valet, which help you secure prime spots on the sand fully loaded with beach gear and personal belongings, plus drinks, snacks, towels, toys, and sunscreen replenished throughout the day.

Grand Colonial Hotel

California Dreaming

In California, the landmark Grande Colonial Hotel, La Jolla’s oldest original hotel, has emerged with fresh new interiors that are the mastermind of Warren Sheets Design, Inc. The firm completed improvements to public areas, including the entrance lobby, the lobby lounge, and meeting rooms of the 93-room, oceanview boutique hotel. The 1913 Colonial Revival-style hotel now features elegant European residential-style interiors with a bold color palette and subtle contemporary nuances. The new design carefully showcases the still-in-tact turn-of-the-century architecture by enhancing fine details—such as original Georgian-style arches, ornate cast plaster crown moldings, and lead glass windows—with modern elements. New Giallo Royale and Calcutta White polished marble flooring, inset with black Galaxy granite, accentuates fine accessories and handsome furnishings, including antique reproductions and contemporary pieces.

Montecristo

Central Beauty Montecristo brings luxe living to Nicaragua.

Located on the Pacific coast of Nicaragua, Montecristo spans over 2,000 acres of stunning coastline. The exclusive, master-planned residential resort’s diverse topography includes forests, mountains, and spectacular volcanic soft-sand beaches.

Montecristo features six unique yet cohesive neighborhoods. Residents can choose luxury turnkey townhomes and casitas on the beach or spacious estate lots for custom-built homes. All casitas will include a plunge pool with a seat and Jacuzzi sprays, while indoor amenities include granite countertops, solid wood cabinets, kitchen bar seating, flat-screen TVs with surround-sound, furniture, and appliances.

Construction is underway on Montecristo’s 7,060-yard, 18-hole Mike Young-designed golf course. Twelve of the 18 holes will feature panoramic views of the Pacific. The front nine will wind along the relatively flat land between the river and the Pacific; the back nine will rise into the mountains, with more than 300 feet of elevation change. The Golf Clubhouse, designed by Jerry Spangler, will have a restaurant, bar, game room, gym, spa, pro shop, locker rooms, and concierge services. Additional planned amenities include a beach club, equestrian center, shops, restaurants, and a community library.

Several studio casitas are completed. Prices start at $185,000 for one-bedroom casitas and $320,000 for two-bedroom beachfront casitas. Homesites range from $75,000 to $165,000.

Sandos Cancun Luxury Experience Resort

All-inclusive luxury

Sandos Hotels & Resorts has added Sandos Cancun Luxury Experience Resort, the third Mexico resort and first Cancun location for the growing Spanish-owned brand. Formerly managed by Starwood Hotels & Resorts under the Le Meridien flag, the property reopened in March 2012 as part of the Sandos collection, featuring new culinary offerings and all-inclusive programming. Sandos Cancun Luxury Experience Resort boasts 214 rooms and suites, including 74 Premium Level suites, which offer access to private cabanas at the beach and pool, a private concierge service, and complimentary WiFi. A fully renovated lobby bar opened in December 2011, and the resort now features four restaurants. In addition to new culinary options, the resort will offer the “Total Gourmet Experience”—a high-end, all-inclusive program featuring all meals, unlimited national and imported drinks, 24-hour room service, and access to the resort’s many activities.

Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa

Italian Masterpiece A new boutique hotel opens on Italy’s Amalfi Coast.

From a rock base on the edge of a cliff that plunges into the depths of the Bay of Salerno on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa seems to float over the coastline. Originally a 17th-century monastery, the recently opened boutique hotel and spa has been respectfully restored to honor its roots. Both the exterior and the interior maintain the asceticism of the property, offset by warm and inviting contemporary design within. The boutique hotel has 20 seaview guest rooms and suites, a full-service spa, a restaurant serving regional specialties, an infinity pool, and beautiful gardens, all situated over five terraced levels. Attached to the hotel by a serene garden is a 12th-century chapel. All of the rooms and suites offer complimentary high-speed Internet access, in-room safes, spacious bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, mini bars, and room service.

Blue Moon Hotel

Feeling Blue

Named by famed talk show host Merv Griffin (a former owner) after the Rogers and Hart ballad, the Blue Moon Hotel celebrates Miami’s dreamy glamor and romance. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Blue Moon hotel completed a restoration, unveiled in May, that revived the historical dignity of the property. Centrally positioned on 9th and Collins Avenue amidst boutiques and restaurants, the Blue Moon hotel is just one block away from the famed Ocean Drive in South Beach. The boutique hotel offers 75 rooms in three unique room designs and features a lounge, martini bar, and restaurant. In-room amenities include luxurious bathrobes, electronic laptop safes, and wireless Internet.

Situated on its own 9.41-acre peninsula with approximately 1,800 feet of ocean frontage in Cohasset, Massachusetts, The Oaks is a palatial estate bearing a rich history and decades of painstaking care and maintenance. After years of occupancy by various residents (among them actor Lawrence Barrett and later Clarence W. Barron, owner of the Dow Jones Company, the Wall Street Journal, and Barron’s Weekly), the home, originally built in 1850, was razed in the early 1930s, when the currently standing Georgian Revival-style incarnation was built in its place. Aside from a storied past, the palatial 24,000-square-foot estate, which is located on the site of Cohasset’s largest 19th-century shipyard, is rife with exceptional amenities, including a private beach and a protected deepwater dock. Additional details of the 10-bedroom, seven-plus-bathroom mansion can be viewed at jonathanradford.com.

The Details: $48.8 million. Jonathan P. Radford, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, 617-266-4430 (office), 617-335-1010 (mobile), jonathan@jonathanradford.com, jonathanradford.com.

The Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island

New England may be a composite of six states, each distinct in its own right, but there’s no doubting the region’s shared cultural identity. People travel to New England for its sleepy villages, steepled churches, lighthouses, beaches, and of course, the lobstah and chowdah. The allure of New England carries over to its lodging offerings—from ocean-side estates to contemporary resorts that are popular with locals and those seeking the quintessential New England vacation.

Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, is the archetypal New England hotel—grand Victorian in design, crowned with a widow’s walk, and replete with views stretching over the Atlantic to Montauk and Block Island. It also has a curious history and a renaissance born out of tragedy: In 2003, a fire at The Station nightclub in West Warwick claimed the lives of 100 people. As a result, fire codes were revisited and enforced more rigorously. Ocean House, which was originally built in 1868, had over time fallen into disrepair and was found to be noncompliant with building codes. New owners acquired the structure in 2003 and did the unthinkable: They demolished it.

The owners had a plan, however, and it all came to fruition when Ocean House reopened its doors in 2010. The new owner, mutual fund manager Charles Royce, made sure that more than half of the new iteration replicated the original building (around 5,000 salvageable artifacts from the original were included). The results have been nothing less than exquisite, attracting fans such as Boston Celtics guard Ray Allen and MSNBC’s Joe Scarborough.

Ocean House is comprised of 49 guestrooms and suites, with the best accommodations being the Tower Suite, Penthouse Suite, and the Atlantic Suite, the latter of which is a top pick for its two large terraces and peerless ocean views. Spread over 1,200 square feet, the Atlantic Suite also includes top tech touches, like an iPod docking station, two 42-inch flat-screen TVs, and another smaller TV in the carpevola-marbled bathroom).

Seasons is the resort’s signature restaurant, and its farm-to-table approach is drawing foodies from all over the region. The menu rotates, so there is no signature dish, but the Harvest Menu is the restaurant’s tasting menu and a must-order.

Ocean House also has an ownership component for those who want the experience to last 365 days a year. There are 21 residences in all, but only six are still available for sale. There are three larger two-bedroom residences (2,200-2,300 square feet), each priced at $3,900,000, and three smaller two-bedroom residences (1,400-1,600 square feet), each priced at $2,900,000. These residences all feature 180-degree oceanfront views and large outdoor terraces. The residences also grant owners year-round covered heated parking and all of the amenities of the hotel, including free membership in the Ocean House Club.

In contrast to the monolithic Ocean House, Cape Cod’s Wequassett plays the role of sprawling resort destination. Over the years, it’s drawn praise from not only guests, but also by voters—it’s the only AAA Four Diamond property on the Cape.

What you have in many of Wequassett’s 120 rooms and suites is a cottagey, shabby-chic feel—think Rachel Ashwell conquers the Cape. The top pick here is the Round Cove Suite, part of the resort’s Signature Collection of rooms. The Round Cove Suite can be reserved in a one-, two-, or three-bedroom configuration and has gas fireplaces and an expansive deck with bay views. Or, guests can opt for a Signature Water Side with views of Pleasant Bay from a private deck.

[Show as slideshow]

[View with PicLens]

As impressive as accommodations are, it’s Wequassett’s signature restaurant, twenty-eight Atlantic, that is the showstopper. The food from Chef Bill Brodsky is befitting of a restaurant with a four-star designation, serving dishes that are rife with native and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant’s dish of caramelized day boat scallops with mushroom ravioli and truffle cream sauce would excite even the most jaded gourmand.

On any day, make arrangements with the resort to shuttle you via speedboat to Nauset Beach, the resort’s private beach across Pleasant Bay, where they will provide you with a picnic lunch. The hotel also has a fleet of BMW SUVs to take guests into the town of Chatham, but a daytrip to Provincetown on the tip of the Cape is another advisable option. Dine at the famous Lobster Pot, then stroll Commercial Street, which has an assortment of high-end stores (think Marc Jacobs) and more local shops—stop into Marine Specialties for hard-to-find military knickknacks.

About as far as you can get from one part of New England to the other is the Delamar Southport, in Southport, Connecticut, about an hour north of New York City. The hotel is a salute to traditional New England Colonial architecture and has such a quaint feel that you can easily forget that it is situated in the shadow of I-95. Once you pull up, the comfortable, cozy New England vibe takes hold.

A recent stay in a deluxe king-bedded guestroom was noted for its décor: light, airy, and anchored by a resplendent four-poster bed. Fido will also appreciate the Delamar; the hotel is pet friendly and will set owners up with a dog bowl and bed. The hotel also has six suites, notably the three-bedroom Woodward-Newman Presidential Suite (the famous actor and condiment king lived in nearby Westport).

Suites boast full kitchens—but who needs it when you have an on-property restaurant as good as Artisan? The restaurant is ensconced within the hotel’s courtyard and combines the feel of a New England tavern with 18th-century Scandinavian design. Helmed by Executive Chef Frederic Kieffer, the menu offers seasonally inspired farm-to-table fare. While the restaurant’s inside is particularly warm, dining alfresco is as much a visual as olfactory experience. Outdoor tables are ringed by an array of herb plants (rosemary, sage, and thyme) that the kitchen cultivates and uses in its dishes.

The Delamar Southport also has a sister property, the Delamar Greenwich Harbor, just south in this tony Connecticut enclave. Adjacent to a marina, the 42-foot Grand Banks yacht Pegasus is docked at the harbor and available for private charters for individual guests or groups up to 12.

Visitors to Nantucket may have wondered what happened to the Point Breeze Hotel after it shut down in 2005. Well, the 60-room grand dame, which dates back to 1891, is back in action after a years-long renovation and will receive guests this summer as The Nantucket.

Nestled in the heart of Nantucket town, this turn-of-the-century resort has been doubled in size and completely refurbished to look as it did long ago. The owners, Mark and Gwenn Snider, who also own the Winnetu Oceanside Resort on Martha’s Vineyard, have tapped into the hotel’s bygone era with the hopes of transforming the hotel into the quintessential New England island experience.

The hotel now features one- to four-bedroom suites, as well as summer cottages. Each suite is also equipped with its own kitchenette. Note: Leave the car on the mainland. The hotel offers shuttles to the ferries and the town and the beaches are just a short walk.

From July through September 8, guests at The Nantucket will also have the opportunity to take advantage of a two-island resort stay offered with the Winnetu. Guests can vacation at both resorts, receive complimentary transfers on the islands, and enjoy reserved seating on the high-speed ferry connecting Hyannis, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket.

Need other Nantucket options? Lark Hotels has just added the 11-room Chapman House (larkhotels.com) to its portfolio. Chapman House—which is the sister property to Lark Hotels’ other Nantucket property, Veranda House, and boasts modern-meets-coastal décor by Boston’s Rachel Reider Interiors—will begin welcoming guests June 15.

Italian Style: Promemoria furniture

Exceptional Italian furniture designer Promemoria debuts in the United States. By Deborah Geiger

Somewhere between the mountains in Lecco and the shores of Lake Como in Italy are the headquarters and workshops of the luxury custom furniture maker Promemoria. As it unveils luxurious custom creations for the home—from decadent, ultramodern kichens to bold, outrageous kids’ furniture to outdoor patio creations—its exquisite works have found their way stateside with a new showroom in New York City.

At the helm of the 24-year-old Promemoria workshop is Romeo Sozzi, a fourth-generation cabinet maker and graduate of the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera in Milan, who brings more than 30 years of crafting experience to the table. Descending from a long line of crafts people, including ancestors who built custom carriages for 19th-century Italian nobility and who restored antique furniture, Sozzi and his three sons continue to develop the traditional craftsmanship at the center of their work. Because everything is custom-made, the company requires up to 14 months for completion and delivery.

As Sozzi provides the “creative spirit” of Promemoria, his three sons manage everything else. Stefano manages the carpenter’s shop; David, an architect, oversees planning; and Paolo manages the day-to-day business.

Most recently unveiled was Promemoria’s first kitchen collection, Angelina, described as “efficient, functional, comfortable, and precious.” Stone and bronze, as well as simple lines, help define “a kitchen which offers intimate everyday pleasure.”

New products also include an innovative collection of elegant lighting pieces. Grenoulle, a lavish table lamp available in bronze, glossy chrome, black glossy chrome, nickel matt, gold, copper, or white gold shades, is topped by a cobalt-blue Murano glass lampshade. Best of all, the base is crafted of a sophisticated yet playful frog—the brand’s logo.

Sozzi utilizes a decadent, natural palette of materials: fine mature woods; animal hides and skins; precious metals; and luxurious fabrics such as silk, cotton, velvet, wool, and cashmere.

Recent collections have included wooden writing desks; tables, mirrors and paraventi (screens, or room dividers); and pillowed chairs, beds, headboards, sofas, and armchairs. One kids’ collection featured furniture in colors like lime green and fire-engine red, and a sophisticated outdoor collection with seating uses materials like dyed ashwood, okume, bronze, and fabric.

With “sensibility and culture, constant experimentation and research,” the firm’s new showroom in New York marks a new era in company history. Italy has never been so close. promemoria.com.

Parvez Taj

The Get: Parvez Taj’s White Barn collection

Coastal style and rustic chic define SoCal-based designer Parvez Taj’s new hanging wall art pieces known as the White Barn Collection, which are crafted of 100-plus-year-old barn sidings. “I was attracted to the textures that outdoor barns acquire over years of being exposed to the elements and the weather and wanted to incorporate that texture in my artwork,” Taj stated. Ready to hang and available in sizes that seem just right, the innovative repurposing of barn pieces ranging in wood type and wear can create a splash in any room. Utilizing environmentally friendly paints and UV-cured inks to design the pieces, no two are alike. Taj has worked on wall art concepts since 2003. parveztaj.com.

On a roll

Chef Mitchell Kaldrovich of the Inn by the Sea in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, creates a modern-day lobster roll that’s still true to its roots. By Lisa Rogak

There are several variations on the theme—more mayo, less celery—but sometimes you just want your surroundings to be a bit more posh and the lobster roll to be just a tad different. That’s exactly what you’ll find in the lobster roll created by chef Mitchell Kaldrovich of the Inn by the Sea in Cape Elizabeth, Maine.

When conjuring up this version of the age-old dish, his aim was to take the best Maine lobster and prepare it as simply as possible. “I like to keep it light and healthy by using fresh herbs from the garden, so that the Maine flavors speak for themselves,” he says. His secret? “A dollop of lemon mayo.” Plus, he serves it up on a soft brioche-style roll—baked fresh at the Inn every day—instead of the bulky hot dog buns that are the dish’s trademark.

Though Kaldrovich was raised in Argentina, he feels completely at home in Maine, where he lives on the edge of a cornfield and has his own vegetable garden. “I love the abundance of fresh seafood that’s available on a daily basis and being surrounded by farmers’ fields,” he says. “This allows me to create seasonal menus that draw on the fresh produce and seafood that are locally available.”

Maine Lobster Rolls serves 4–6

Lobster Salad
4 c. cooked lobster meat, cut into bite-size pieces from five half-pound lobsters
⅓ c. low-fat mayonnaise
2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp. fresh chopped herbs: chives, tarragon, and/or parsley
Salt & pepper to taste
4 Sea Glass Lobster Buns
Maine potato chips

To cook lobsters: Fill a large stockpot three-quarters full of salted water—one tablespoon per quart of water—and bring to a boil. Submerge lobsters completely and cover. Cook approximately 9-10 minutes, until shell is red. Drain from water. Remove the claws and put them back in the pot for another three minutes. Drain, cool, remove meat from shell, and cut into chunks. To make the salad: Gently combine the lobster meat with the lemon juice, mayo, and herbs in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cut each bun in half, lightly grill them on the inside, and spoon in lobster salad. Serve immediately with handmade Maine potato chips.

Sea Glass Lobster Buns
25 g. fresh yeast
2 tsp. sugar
¼ c. water, lukewarm
500 g. bread flour
12½ g. salt
50 g. sugar
1 small egg
50 ml. canola oil
150 ml. water

Combine yeast, sugar, and water in measuring cup and let foam for 20 minutes. In large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. In separate bowl, stir egg, oil, and water together. Add the yeast mixture and egg mixture to the flour and combine to form a smooth dough. Add more flour as needed. Cover with plastic wrap and let double in size at room temperature, about 45 minutes. Cut the dough into three-ounce portions. Roll each one into a “football” and place on an oiled cookie sheet. With a very sharp knife, slash each bun about ½-inch deep at a 45-degree angle. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 15-20 minutes, or until nicely brown.

Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse

Despite the fact that Portsmouth is a small city in a small state, there’s an awful lot crammed into the most popular destination in the Granite State’s seacoast region. Portsmouth is a charming and refined city that has made countless top 10 lists through the years—from prettiest town to best walking city to most livable small city—and it especially shines in the summertime, with plenty of outdoor activities at Prescott Park, the waterfront oasis that offers live music, art shows, and ample opportunities for picnicking.

Portsmouth was settled in 1623, and since the bulk of its wealth came from the sea in the form of shipbuilding and trade over the years, it’s no wonder that the architecture hearkens back to its several seafaring heydays. Styles ranging from Colonial to Federal to Queen Anne abound throughout the city. Stroll down any street in the compact downtown area, or experience it all in one fell swoop at Strawbery Banke, a collection of homes that straddle the centuries.

But Portsmouth isn’t only all about the history. While it’s true that there are more stories packed into each cobblestone and brick on the streets and sidewalks than there are in other parts of New Hampshire, modern-day life dovetails quite tastefully with the historical. Boutiques and shops are situated in buildings that date back centuries, and so are many restaurants, though some specialize in cuisine that the early settlers of Portsmouth could not have fathomed—vegan cuisine from North Africa at Zahtar’s, anyone? In addition, a surprising number of art galleries with some very contemporary exhibits dot the main streets and alleys of the town. One warning: No matter where you go, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes, since it’s much easier to park the car and walk the streets when exploring this charming, compact city.

Portsmouth is an easy stopover between Cape Cod and Boston, as well as points farther north in Maine, so there’s no excuse not to spend a couple of days exploring this small and vibrant city. In fact, there’s so much to see and do in Portsmouth that you just might find you’ll need to extend your stay.

[Show as slideshow]

[View with PicLens]

The Essentials: Portsmouth, NH

 1 Where to Stay Though not technically located in Portsmouth, it’s just a quick drive to New Castle and Wentworth by the Sea Hotel and Spa, a grand hotel with a rich history and a perch right on the Atlantic. 588 Wentworth Road, New Castle; 603-422-7322; wentworth.com. Right in downtown Portsmouth, the Sise Inn dates back to the 19th century and will make you feel like you stepped right into another era. 40 Court Street, Portsmouth; 603-433-1200; siseinn.com.

2 Where to Eat The Dolphin Striker is the grande dame of the Portsmouth dining scene. Don’t miss the lobster mac and cheese. 15 Bow Street, Portsmouth; 603-431-5222; dolphinstriker.com. The Common Man is a highly acclaimed restaurant where the food is consistently over the top; expect pot roast, baked cod, and bread pudding. 96 State Street, Portsmouth; 603-334-6225; thecman.com/restaurants/common-man-portsmouth.

3 What To Do At Strawbery Banke, visit period homes on the waterfront. Marcy Street, 603-433-1100; strawberybanke.org. Glimpse life in a submarine at the USS Albacore, a museum celebrating the historic vessel. 600 Market Street, Portsmouth; 603-436-3680; ussalbacore.org. Take a day trip to the Isles of Shoals, a collection of islands about five miles from town. Portsmouth Harbor Cruises, 64 Ceres Street; 603-436-8084; portsmouthharbor.com.

Christophe Harbour

St. Kitts’ Christophe Harbour is a labor of love. By Stephen Oakridge

It is one thing to build a one-off hotel or resort; it’s a whole other story to develop a luxury community from scratch. That is the pursuit of Christophe Harbour, the luxury resort development still under construction on the southeast peninsula of St. Kitts in the eastern Caribbean.

The master-planned development spans 2,500 acres and, when complete, will entail a mega-yacht harbor and 300-slip marina (the development’s focal points); an 18-hole Tom Fazio-designed golf course; two branded hotels; private residences; a yacht club; beach clubs, restaurants; and shopping.

Getting to the point of total completion has been a chore for Christophe Harbour Development Company, a venture of Kiawah Partners, stymied by a fickle economy and a downturn that arrived just as the first shovel hit the dirt in 2008.

Now, the development is in full advance. “Despite launching this project during a difficult economic climate, Christophe Harbour has successfully sold more than properties and started to develop both the infrastructure and amenities for a world-class residential resort community,” said Charles P. “Buddy” Darby III, CEO of Kiawah Partners. “Our goal is to create an opportunity for a lifestyle that is unmatched anywhere in the Caribbean, and we believe by doing that, Christophe Harbour is well positioned to take advantage of the economic recovery we are now beginning to see.

The real estate component comprises lots available from $750,000 to $2.8 million. A variety of different home sites to choose from includes Sandy Bank Bay, set along a horseshoe bay with two reefs and a natural sand bank that extends more than 100 yards from the shoreline, and Cardinal Point, which is situated above Sandy Bank Bay and comprises 13 home sites overlooking the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic. According to Kiawah Partners, 67 lots have been sold to date. christopheharbour.com.

Lounging poolside at Turtle Inn's Family Pavilion

Francis Ford Coppola’s trio of esteemed lodges headlines Belize’s eco-luxury revolution. By Paul Rubio

Connecting the landmasses of North and South America, the isthmus of Central America explodes with extraordinary landscapes reflecting the rich and fertile lands once ruled by the Maya. Following the eco-tourism successes of its Mesoamerican neighbors, Belize is the latest country to hop on the green-travel bandwagon, satisfying a hunger for both enthralling adventure and sun-drenched bliss. Focusing on the history and majesty of the history-steeped Maya Mountains and the aquamarine rapture of the world’s second-largest barrier reef, quiet Belize is now making a name for itself in the world of high-end travel, thanks largely to a very special Hollywood director.

While best known for The Godfather films in the United States and Europe, the name Francis Ford Coppola takes on a different meaning in Belize and neighboring Guatemala. In between Oscar-winning films, Coppola’s mad love affair with English-speaking Belize spawned several offspring: Blancaneaux Lodge in Belize’s Maya Mountains; Turtle Inn along Belize’s Placencia Peninsula; and La Lancha, situated near the ancient city of Tikal off the Belize-Guatemala border. Mention Coppola’s name in these parts and imagery of eco-luxury immediately comes to mind.

The Placencia Peninsula, along Belize’s central coastline, is the latest hotspot for Central American beachfront real estate and is home to Coppola’s thatched-roof beachfront retreat, Turtle Inn. To those who’ve previously stumbled upon Belize’s downtrodden coastal capital, Belize City, fear not; Placencia bears no resemblance to the country’s economic epicenter and will quickly replace any previous feelings of “paradise lost.” With its own airport and all the trappings of a textbook bohemian beach town, a visit to Placencia and Turtle Inn is likely to inspire future investment in this small slice of coastal heaven.

Placencia epitomizes Belize’s diversity with a vibe that’s distinctly laid-back Caribbean, cuisine that pulls from both the islands and the Maya heartland, and a population that blends all races. The mangrove-rich peninsula recalls the beauty of the Florida Keys, while the presence of the world’s second-largest barrier reef farther afield reveals some of the globe’s top dive spots.

Turtle Inn’s stylish and expansive bungalows are at once rustic and luxe—just what honeymoon dreams are made of. Simplicity is key, so forget about all technological distractions, because you won’t find them here. Even if you want to communicate with the front desk, you’ll have to page them with your in-room “Gilligan’s Island”-style conch “shell phone.”

Your days at Turtle Inn will consist of poolside and beachside lounging, the occasional swim to the resort’s floating sundecks, feasting on Italian and Belizean cuisine, and spending plenty of romantic time in your personal alfresco shower garden. For added relaxation, the Thai therapists at the house spa are available to perform invigorating and stress-relieving massages and rituals from their homeland in outdoor pavilions.

The majority of accommodations take shape as villas and cottages that offer garden or sea views and are adorned in Balinese and Guatemalan fabrics and woodcarvings from the onsite wood shop. Elevated triangular wood ceilings capture the day’s heat while ubiquitous screen windows channel coastal zephyrs, reducing the need for air conditioning. (Those travelers who are sensitive to heat will want to visit in cooler months, from December to March.)

Larger families and those in-the-know frequently opt to reside in Coppola’s personal vacation villa, the larger Balinese-inspired Francis Ford Coppola Family Pavilion, which flaunts its own private pool and attendant, all while still being part of the Turtle Inn complex. High-profile guests and those looking for extreme privacy seek refuge in Turtle Inn’s Beach House, a completely secluded private home designed by architect Laurent Deroo, reflecting a tropical blend of modern luxury.

While Belize’s coastline makes its mark as a destination for plenty of fun in the sun, the mystical ruins and mountainous landscapes in western Belize also appeals to both seasoned and novice outdoor enthusiasts. Coppola’s Blancaneaux Lodge showcases the best of western Belize’s Maya Mountains, a region teeming with mysterious caves, dramatic waterfalls, hiking trails, and exalted Maya archaeological sites, such as the stunning Caracol.

Blancaneaux stands tall in Belize’s Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, peering over the serene Privassion River, its mammoth huts and villas connected by labyrinthine walking trails through a magical pine forest. Blancaneaux calls to those seeking an “eco-light” experience, with nature serving as nothing more than a scenic backdrop, as well as more hard-core travelers looking for rigorous hikes and intrepid adventures, like searching for tracks of the elusive jaguar.

[Show as slideshow]

[View with PicLens]

12►

Whatever your preferred style of vacation, days at Blancaneaux are commonly split between enthralling day trips (the preeminent one being to Caracol) and lazy afternoons of bespoke bonding with nature. This includes soaking in the pool-sized hot tub while listening to birdcalls, swaying in a riverside hammock with a good read, or succumbing to the call of the wild in the private plunge pools and the outdoor shower gardens of the Deluxe Cabanas. Onsite, guests can tour Blancaneaux’s organic garden, the source for the majority of fruits and vegetables for the property’s restaurant, Montagna Ristorante, and the beautiful floral arrangements found within guest villas. Horseback riding is also a popular pastime, with 17 horses eagerly waiting for riders to wander with through the surrounding pine forest and nearby broadleaf forest.

Similar to Turtle Inn, guests at Blancaneaux have the option of walking in Coppola’s shoes by staying in his personal vacation villa at Blancaneaux. Naturally, the Francis Ford Coppola Villa has the best seat in the house, directly overlooking Privassion Creek, and boasts a private pool and service from a private attendant. Inside the villa, expect plenty of artifacts from Coppola’s personal travel collection, namely a wealth of colorful Guatemalan huapils (pronounced wee-peel), which are colorful, handwoven poncho-style garments found in the varied regions of the Guatemalan highlands. Analogous to Turtle Inn’s Beach House, Blancaneaux also offers the exclusive 1,800-square-foot Enchanted Cottage, with its own private entrance. True to its namesake, the Enchanted Cottage wows with its juxtaposition of stone and wood and features heated floors, a bedroom fireplace, and an exotic Japanese bathtub.

All international flights land at Belize City International Airport; and once in Belize, Coppola’s lodges provide land transfers and work closely with Tropic Air to secure seats on the airline’s wealth of regularly scheduled, connecting services to the country’s most remote pockets. Though it is possible to simply visit one of the Coppola lodges exclusively, the excellent tourism infrastructure connecting the Turtle Inn, Blancaneaux, and the third lodge, La Lancha, often prompts visitors to sample at least two, if not all three lodges, for a deliciously diverse sojourn through Mesoamerica.

Lake Peten at La Lancha

The Details: Belize

Tropicair.com; coppolaresorts.com; Turtle Inn from $285/night to $2,500/night; Blancaneaux Lodge from $255/night to $1800 /night.

 Guatemala Unedited Opt for an excursion to Guatemala to experience Coppola’s La Lancha lodge.

Given time constraints of the modern traveler, it’s not always possible to sample all three of Coppola’s lodges. In most instances, Guatemala’s La Lancha fails to make the final cut. However, travelers should note that La Lancha is true eco-tourism at its finest, and getting to and from Flores, Guatemala is fairly simple.

Less than two hours from the Belize border, in Guatemala’s El Peten region, the rainforest meets the sparkling waters of Lake Peten Itza at La Lancha, Coppola’s charming 10-room boutique lodge. Those looking for charismatic wildlife will certainly find it here. Outside the balconies of the Lakeview Casitas, colorful toucans take flight, while curious howler monkeys go about their daily “monkey business.”

Wildlife endeavors notwithstanding, the anchor for a trip to La Lancha is a visit to the most famous of all Mayan ruins, Tikal. A trek through the ancient world of Tikal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that could easily headline your Central American travels. coppolaresorts.com/LaLancha, $90-$340/night.