Recommended Worldwide Luxury Destinations

MEXICO
Cabo San Lucas	Las Ventanas al Paraiso Luxurious new resort offering a "window on your own private paradise", richly-appointed rooms reflecting regional architecture alongside a championship golf course terraced above the Sea of Cortez. The classy new "King of Baja". Rates from $475-675; suites $1800-3000. Reservations: 888-767-3966 (PH: 52-114-40300-402).
Cancun	Maroma One hour south of the maddeningly commercialized Cancun, this gracious seaside retreat provides an engaging alternative for the discriminating visitor seeking old Mexico charm in comfortably- furnished surroundings. All 36 rooms are air-conditioned and feature Mexican artifacts in Moroccan-style whitewalled compounds. Mayan ruins nearby, long expanse of private beach, and refreshingly pleasant service. Price range: $235-900 in season. Reservations: 877-262-7662 (Ph: 52-987-44730; Fax: 52-988-42115).
Costa Careyes	Las Alamandas (between Puerto Vallarta & Manzanillo) An lush hideaway offering serenity and endless white sand beaches, 1500 acres of lush tropical garden sanctuary and ecological reserve affords a fortunate eleven couples low-key hospitality and complete exclusivity. Rooms are comfortably but simply appointed; opt for one of the five suites fronting on the beach. Expensive. Rates: $800 and higher. Reservations: 888-882-9616 (Ph: 52-328-55500; Fax: 52-328-55027).
Zihuatanejo	La Casa Que Canta Perched on a panoramic cliff above Zihuatanejo Bay, this charming resort adds privacy, elegance and friendly hospitality to its superb views. All 24 suites face the ocean and surround the fresh-water and salt-water swimming pools. Tennis & golf nearby. Suites range from $315-495. Reservations: 888-523-5050 (ph: 52-755-46529; Fax: 52-755-47900).
CENTRAL AMERICA
Costa Rica	Lapa Rios (Osa Peninsula) A true wilderness retreat along the scenic Pacific Coast, fourteen individual palapa-style bungalows cascade down the lush hillside overlooking the ocean. The charm of this ecological haven lies in the wondrous variety of animal and bird life available for intimate encounters from the open air restaurant or witnessed on fascinating hikes within the surrounding rain forest. A nature lover's delight. All inclusive rate: $350 /couple. Reservations: 011-506-735-5130 (Fax: -735-5179). Hotel Punta Islita (Nicoya Peninsula) Offering perhaps the highest level of luxury available in Costa Rican accommodations, this scenic enclave along the Pacific ocean west of San Jose provides a sophisticated and intimate hideaway with refined cuisine and upscale (air conditioned!) cottages. Opt for the new "Villita Suites" with private plunge pools. Price: $275, meals extra). Reservations: 011-506-231-6122 (Fax: -2312-2183).
SOUTH AMERICA
Chile	explora Hotel Salto Chico (Patagonia) A truly remote high wilderness lodge in the center of Patagonia, deep in the Torres del Paine National Park, and certainly one of South America's best hotels. Blending stylish sensibility with respect for the surroundings, the experience lies in exploring the dramatic landscape nearby. 30 cozy guest quarters and home-style cooking served above the Salto Chico waterfalls. An awesomely unique retreat in a hauntingly unspoiled corner of the world. Rates are quoted in 4-7 day stays; approximately $3500-5000 for two. Reservations Ph: 56-2-206-6060: Fax: 56-2-228-4655. (Toll-free fax: 800-858-0855).

Grand Getaways, Inc
P.O. Box 1478
Orinda, CA 94563-0648
USA
Ph: 1-925-254-9760   Fax: 1-925-254-9790