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UNITED STATES
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Arizona
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The Boulders (Carefree)
In perfect harmony with its spectacular Sonoran Desert setting,
this hideaway outside Phoenix offers spacious adobe style casitas
tucked alongside 2 stunning 18-hole golf courses, with tennis center
and spa. An award-winning getaway. High season: $545/couple;
considerably lower in low season/summer. Reservations: 800-553-1717
(Ph: 602-488-9009; Fax: 602-488-4118).
The Phoenician Hotel (Scottsdale)
Architecturally splendid resort set on 250 highly manicured acres
at foot of Camelback Mountain. A full range of sports and over
200 spa treatments, complimented by 650 lavish guest quarters and
several fine dining options. Deluxe $525-600 in season; 25-40%
lower during the rest of the year. Reservations: 800-888-8234
(Ph:602-941-8200; Fax: 602-947-4311).
Royal Palms Hotel & Casitas (Phoenix)
Recently reopened after a $30 million renovation, this intimate inn
now boasts 115 guest quarters housed in a Spanish-Colonial style
luxury compound. Rave reviews for its hospitable staff and deluxe
casitas (avoid plaza rooms). Casitas $395-495. Check for special
rates. Reservations: 800-672-6011 (Ph: 602-840-3610; Fax:
602-840-3610).
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California
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Post Ranch Inn (Big Sur)
An environmentally-sensitive approach and visually stunning setting
have combined to offer one of the most panoramic, romantic and
intimate hideaways in the world. From tree houses to ocean bluff
accommodations, all 30 units offer first-class comfort and amenities
amidst total tranquillity. Rates range from $475-645 (opt for Ocean
House). Reservations: 800-527-2200 (Ph: 408-667-2200;
Fax: 408-667-2512).
Meadowood (St. Helena)
Secretly nestled in a wooded hollow in Napa Valley's premier wine
region, this New England style enclave offers a picturesque country
club setting with 85 contemporary rooms (most are one bedroom
suites in clusters of four), top notch dining and world-class croquet.
Deluxe double $400-510. Reservations: 800-458-8080
(Ph: 707-963-3646; Fax: 707-963-3532).
Inn at Spanish Bay (Monterey)
A golfer's paradise provides much of the allure for this 270 room
inn conveniently located between the Monterey pines of Del Monte
Forest and the Pacific Ocean. Contemporary elegance, scenic vistas
and a full range of activities make this an ideal vacation spot.
Rates begin at $450 for the preferred Ocean View rooms. Reservations:
800-654-9300 (Ph: 408-647-7500: Fax 408-644-7955).
Hotel Bel-Air (Los Angeles)
Consistently ranked one of the top hotels in the world, with 52
rooms and 40 suites, this prestigious and star-studded retreat
is nestled in an elaborate garden setting one mile west of Beverly
Hills. An award-winning restaurant (Table One) and peaceful
privacy complete the experience. Doubles $325-425, suites from
$525. Call early for Reservations: 800-223-6800
(Ph: 310-472-1211; 310-476-5980).
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Hawaii
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The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows (nr Kona)
Still our personal favorite among many deluxe Hawaiian resorts,
this luxurious beachfront hotel (with 5 private bungalows and
nearby classy condominium villas) will fulfill all of your island
fantasies -- two world class golf courses with spectacular ocean
frontage, an elegant tennis complex, extensive health/fitness spa,
and 350 tastefully decorated accommodations with private ocean
view lanais. From the hammocks on the beach to the atrium
waterfalls, an exquisite blend of sophisticated luxury and Hawaiian
hospitality, with something for everyone. Rates from $420-550.
Reservations: 800-367-2323 (Ph: 808-885-6622;
Fax: 808-885-4556).
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Montana
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Triple Creek (nr Darby)
One of the finest ranch resorts in the US, this couples-only retreat
offers luxurious custom log cabins spread discreetly along the creek
and wooded meadows, many with extravagant baths and deck spas.
Full range of year-round western ranch activities, including fly-
fishing, horseback riding, hiking, cross-country skiing and more.
All-inclusive rates start at $750. Reservations: 800-654-2943
(Ph: 406-821-4600; Fax: 406-821-4666).
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Texas
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The Mansion on Turtle Creek (Dallas)
This meticulously restored 1920s private residence has become the
standard for excellence in luxury hotels. Its 141 elegantly furnished
rooms include marble baths, fax machines, and every imaginable
amenity. Richly ornate interiors complete the picture, all within
minutes of central Dallas. Room rates range from $ 310-475.
Reservations: 800-527-5432 (Ph: 214-559-2100;
Fax: 214-528-4187).
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Vermont
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Twin Farms (Nr Woodstock)
Romantic New England retreat featuring 14 luxurious lodgings for
an intimate couples-oriented escape. Highlights include summer
walking/biking paths and lake activities; winter offers private ski
slope and cross-country. A perennial Andrew Harper favorite.
All-inclusive rates range from $800-1150. Reservations:
800-894-6327 (Ph: 802-234-9999: Fax 802-234-9990).
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Wyoming
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Amangani (nr Jackson Hole)
The newest of the consistently classy Aman resorts, T&L gives
front cover accolades for "high altitude luxury in Wyoming". Its
40 refined, modern suites all provide spectacular mountain views
from spacious decks and lavish baths alike. The focus is on blending
the spectacular natural environment with pampered quiet elegance.
Rooms: $450-750. Reservations: 877-734-7333 (Ph: 307-734-7333;
Fax: 304-734-7332).
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CANADA
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British Columbia
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Wickaninnish Inn (Tofino)
Set on a supremely rustic Pacific promontory on the west coast of
Vancouver Island, and surrounded by an old growth forest, 46
stylish guest rooms are housed in a charming cedar wood residence
with breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and islands. First
rate seafood cuisine add to the sense of complete relaxation. Rooms
from $200-260. Reservations: 800-333-4604 (Ph: 250-725-3100;
Fax: 250-725-3110).
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Ontario
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Inn at Manitou (nr Parry Sound)
A distinguished and charming lakeside estate complete with pool,
tennis, horseback and elegant spa facilities. The inn hosts 33
stylish rooms and suites, with exceptional wine and food accompaniments.
On-site renowned Golf Academy. Deluxe rates from $410-495.
Reservations: 800-571-8818 (Ph: 705-389-2171;
Fax: 705-389-3818).
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CARIBBEAN
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Anguilla
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Cap Juluca
A personal favorite of My Travel Advisor, this
Moroccan-style oasis fronts a gorgeous beach of pristine white sand and
turquoise water on Maundays Bay. Palatial suites complete with white marble
and tile finishings, his & her tubs, outdoor garden showers, and other
over-the-top accouterments complete the sensuous experience. A
must visit. Reserve a Junior Suite: $475 and up, based upon season.
Reservations: 888-858-5822 (Ph: 264-497-6666;
Fax: 264-497-6617).
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Mustique
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The Cotton House
A dreamy resort on an 18th century plantation, this exclusive hide-
away has long hosted reclusive celebrities and romantic couples
alike. The only hotel on this tiny island, its simple sensuousness
provides a tranquil escape enhanced by discreet pampering and
gourmet Caribbean cuisine. Seek out a room in the "Coutinot
House", closer to the beach. Inclusive rates from $590-1150.
Fax: 809-456-5887).
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Martinique
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Habitation La Grange
Travel back in time to a place reminiscent of an old rum plantation
buried deep in a lush tropical forest, mix in a heavy dose of
romantic ambiance and poolside candlelit dinners, add exotic jungle
sounds and a touch of pure mysticism, and you have arrived at this
magical 18th-century restored residence. The 17 rooms suggest
quiet simplicity (improved with updated baths), but the experience
bespeaks of a bygone era. Highly romantic lovers' hideaway.
Reasonably priced at $231-315. Reservations: 800-633-7411
(Ph: 843-785-7411; Fax: 843-686-7411).
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St. Martin
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La Samanna
Located along a palm-studded mile-long crescent of sugary sand,
this recently refurbished resort boasts 83 comfortable guest quarters
not far from the port town of Marigot. Mediterranean architecture
accents this discreet and private retreat, surrounded by tropical
foliage and exuding French West Indies charm. Rooms from $325.
Reservations: 800-854-2252 (Ph: 590-876400; Fax 590-876786).
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St. Vincent
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Petit St. Vincent
The ultimate private island escape, every guest is sequestered in one
of 22 private stone cottages fronting breezy ocean vistas. Raise
a red flag at your cottage and experience complete seclusion (meals
may be left at your door). Charter flight from Barbados, and private
boat to PSV. Stay for a week at least! Rates $800/couple, 20-35%
less in low season. Reservations: 800-654-9326 (Ph: 513-242-1333;
Fax: 513-242-6951).
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Turks & Caicos
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The Grace Bay Club (Island of Providenciales)
Quickly gaining a new-found reputation as one of the dreamiest,
most romantic hideaways in the world, all 21 rooms in this suite-
only hotel have terraces overlooking a spectacular white powder
beach, with a full menu of water sports and pampered service (take
the private launch to the nearby uninhabited island for a secluded
interlude). Room rates $365-1255. Reservations: 800-946-5757
(Ph: 649-946-5757; Fax: 649-946-5758).
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Virgin Gorda
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Little Dix
Catering to a discriminating international clientele, Rosewood
Hotels has extensively renovated this original Rockresort signature
property to a renewed level of personal luxury. Situated on an
idyllic private Caribbean beachfront, the premium private cottages
set among lush tropical foliage are the ideal way to experience a
restive and intimate getaway with a loved one. Cuisine has likewise
improved dramatically. Prices range from $750 upward; 25-35%
less in off-season. Reservations: 800-928-3000 (Ph: 284-495-5555;
Fax 284-495-5661).
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