Author Archives: Andi's Pick

About Andi's Pick

This hotel has been carefully selected and is highly recommended by Andi Perullo de Ledesma, the Editor-in-Chief and Creator of My Beautiful Adventures. She travels the world in search of the best in luxury accommodation. If your hotel would like to be reviewed for consideration of being added into the elite collection of "picks," please contact Andi at: AndiPerullo@aol.com

Andi’s Pick: Primland

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Primland: Meadows of Dan, Virginia

Primland

First Impression

Primland

I foolishly thought that I knew about all of the must-visit hotels around the world, especially if they are located within the United States.  Imagine my surprise when I discovered that Primland — one of the ultimate retreats for world-class golf, refined dining, spa services, and outdoor activities — existed only a two-hour drive away from me.  This hidden gem is not just a hotel, it is a destination, and it should be put on every traveler’s Bucket List.  My husband I were in awe as we drove up the mountain and arrived at this spectacular property.

Location

Primland is a 12,000 acre resort surrounded by the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains in the quaint Virginian city of Meadows of Dan.  The owners are fiercely protective of the land and have been environmentally respectful since they purchased it in 1977.  Because they are committed to sustainability and are a LEED registered property, the surrounding flora and fauna are abundantly thriving.

Primland

The Room

Every single detail is thought about and considered at Primland, and nowhere is that more clear than in their rooms, as everything is placed with a purpose.  The lighting, the art, the flowers, and the music combined with the luxuriousness of 400-thread count Frette bedding makes for a space so welcoming and beautiful it is almost impossible to leave.  Our two-room suite was decorated in a Native American style that is both sophisticated and unique.

Primland

The Bathroom

The bathroom was designed in a conscientious and thoughtful manner as well.  The mixture of stone, marble, and wood is perfectly sumptuous.  Guests can chose between the shower and/or bath when it comes to their bathing needs.  L’Occitane products simply add to the already incredible experience!

Primland

Primland

Primland

Primland

The Extras

The spacious suites in Primland offer the utmost in relaxation.  Settle in slowly and smile as a mountain breeze shadows your every move whispering sweetly in your ear.  For visitors, a stay at this property allows one to enjoy a vacation that captures Virginia’s magnificence.  Make sure you save enough time, so that you can brew a cup of Keurig coffee and enjoy it on the charming patio that comes with a glorious view of the golf course.

Primland

Primland

Primland

Primland

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

Because Primland is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, guests are presented with an intriguing juxtaposition of tradition, luxury, and adventure.  You can choose to dine at one of the restaurants, hike the trails, swim, golf, visit the spa, hunt, race ATVs, skeet shoot, horseback ride, or stargaze in the Observatory Dome.  Wow.

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Andi’s Pick: The Somerset On Grace Bay

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The Somerset On Grace Bay: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

The Somerset On Grace Bay

First Impression

If you have been dreaming lately of traveling to a gorgeous tropical beach resort, then you are guaranteed to have found the paradise of your fantasies at The Somerset on Grace Bay in the British Crown Colony of the Turks and Caicos.  Discerning vacationers will be pleased upon arrival to have discovered the perfect balance of a European look of refined sophistication combined with a laid-back feel of Caribbean living.  This all-suite hotel’s motto is “no request is too large”, thus be prepared to never want to leave this exotic Eden.  My husband and I found it to be the perfect backdrop for our second anniversary.

The Somerset On Grace Bay
 Location

The Somerset on Grace Bay is on the island of Providenciales, which is located at the western end of the Turks & Caicos archipelago and is a simple fifteen drive from the Providenciales International Airport (PLS).  This immaculate beachfront property occupies 4.6 acres that lay directly on one of the best beaches in the world.  Grace Bay Beach is an internationally acclaimed twelve mile stretch of white, powdery sand and clear, calm turquoise seas that definitely lives up to its reputation.

The Somerset On Grace Bay

The Room

You will find everything that you would expect from a five-star resort and more at the Somerset on Grace Bay.  Each of the fifty-three one to three bedroom villas are elegantly decorated and are ideal for both couples and families alike.

Our incredibly spacious one bedroom villa took our breath away when we first entered it.  As if being located on Grace Bay Beach was not enough, the details found throughout take luxury to another level.  The bedroom itself features a King sized bed that sits atop imported marble tiles with an ample sized sitting area and closets, as well as a flat screen TV, an iPad docking station, and complimentary WiFi.

The Somerset On Grace Bay

The Somerset On Grace Bay

The Bathroom

The opulent master bathroom is enveloped in even more marble tiles and mahogany-carved cabinets.  Guests can choose to soak in either the whirlpool tub or bask in the rain forest shower.  Molton Brown of London toiletries, waffle bathrobes, and a second powder bathroom are also offered.

The Somerset On Grace Bay

The Somerset On Grace Bay

The Somerset On Grace Bay

The Extras

In addition to the spectacular bedroom is a gourmet kitchen, washer and dryer, living room, and dining area for those wanting to take their vacation one step further.

The Somerset On Grace Bay

The Somerset On Grace Bay

The Somerset On Grace Bay

Apart from the villa, the resort boasts fine dining and two casual restaurants, infinity-edge and reverse-current lap pools, a fitness center with a steam room, in-suite spa services, complimentary Caicos Kids Club, activities on land and sea, and first class concierge services.  The dedicated staff provides constant attentive, but discreet and personalized service.

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

While most of the time you will find yourself on the beach or in one of the pools, undoubtably you will be drawn to your private grand terrace, as it is completely irresistible.  Ours had floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to the majestic ocean beyond and for us it was the epitome of comfort.

The Somerset On Grace Bay

The Somerset On Grace Bay

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Andi’s Pick: Rosewood Tucker’s Point

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Rosewood Tucker’s Point: Bermuda

First Impression

Tropical destinations are in high demand, although resorts as extraordinary as Rosewood Tucker’s Point, a Kiwi Collection recommended hotel, are in short supply.  This is a sanctuary where you will instantly feel as though you have truly escaped and where you can breathe a sigh of relief, as not only is your body on vacation, but both your mind and soul are afforded a brief respite from reality as well.  Rosewood is a global chain devoted to creating accommodations unlike any other.  Their philosophy is, “true world-class status is only achieved when a hotel or resort combines the traditions of its host community with exceptional service, a luxury product, and incredible attention to detail.”  They certaintely acheived their dream with the Tucker’s Point property!

Rosewood Tucker's Point

Rosewood Tucker's Point

Location

Rosewood Tucker’s Point has a unique location on the island of Bermuda.  It is nestled in Hamilton Parish on an award-winning golf course.  While it is not directly next to the ocean, it is only minutes away, and from most of the property there is a waterfront view of the beautiful Castle Harbour.

Rosewood Tucker's Point

Rosewood Tucker's Point

Rosewood Tucker's Point

The Room

No matter which room you stay in you are guaranteed to be pleased, as Rosewood Tucker’s Point offers the finest accommodations on the island.  I highly recommend booking a corner suite, since then you will have a view of Castle Harbour and Castle Harbor pool with an even more expansive terrace.  Our room came with a King sized bed and was decorated in a classic British style with charming artwork, elegant fabrics, and wood furniture that was fit for royalty.

Rosewood Tucker's Point

Rosewood Tucker's Point

The Bathroom

Upon walking into the ensuite bathroom for the first time, there is no doubt that your first impression will be, “This is the most beautiful bathroom I have ever seen.”  The five-fixture bathrooms are customized with marble showers, stand-alone deep soaking tubs, and unique stone and wood finishes.

Rosewood Tucker's Point

Rosewood Tucker's Point

The Extras

If you can tear yourself away from your gorgeous room, the property offers a myriad of activities, such as three pools, a golf course, a fitness and dive center, tennis courts, an array of culinary venues, and Bermuda’s largest private beach at Tucker’s Point Club.  One of my favorite places was their sensational spa, which offers just about any treatment you could think of, although I must say that no matter where you are on the property you will be surrounded with the utmost of beauty.

Rosewood Tucker's Point

Rosewood Tucker's Point

Rosewood Tucker's Point

Rosewood Tucker's Point

Rosewood Tucker's Point

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

The view from our room’s terrace made our time at Rosewood Tucker’s Point unforgettable.  We spent hours on it enjoying the fresh air and gentle breeze while dining, reading, or relaxing.  I will definitely find myself day dreaming about this spot for years to come.

Rosewood Tucker's Point

Rosewood Tucker's Point
Rosewood Tucker's Point

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Andi’s Pick: Elbow Beach, Bermuda

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Elbow Beach, Bermuda: Bermuda

Elbow Beach, Bermuda

First Impression

There is nothing better than a hotel that preserves and celebrates its historical significance, while at the same time incorporating contemporary elements.  Elbow Beach, Bermuda, a Mandarin Oriental property and a Kiwi Collection recommend hotel, does just that.  It is over a century old, however you will find nothing but modern luxuries throughout.

Elbow Beach, Bermuda

Elbow Beach, Bermuda

Location

The property is spread along Elbow Beach, which is arguably one of, if not, the most beautiful beaches in Bermuda.  The pink sand is bordered by turquoise-blue waters that stretches as far as the eyes can see.  It truly is a postcard worthy setting!

Elbow Beach, Bermuda

The Room

The cozy accommodations, which are set within private cottages, are effortlessly stylish and each comes with a King sized bed and a sweeping view of the dazzling Atlantic Ocean.  The signature Mandarin Oriental orchids are carefully placed in various spots of the room.

Elbow Beach, Bermuda

Elbow Beach, Bermuda

Elbow Beach, Bermuda

The Bathroom

The en suite bathroom perfectly compliments the clean and bright ascetics of the adjoining room.  Both the bathtub and shower are spacious and comfortable and the Red Flower bath products are a delightful touch.

Elbow Beach, Bermuda

Elbow Beach, Bermuda

Elbow Beach, Bermuda

The Extras

Guests are spoiled for choice on where they want to sunbathe — they can either choose a chair and umbrella by the ocean or the pool — or alternate between both, since they are equally prime locations.  While children can enjoy endless adventures at the kids club, parents can indulge in holistic treatments centered around Chinese Medicine at the nearby spa.

Elbow Beach, Bermuda

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

The view from the rooms at Elbow Beach, Bermuda are guaranteed to take your breath away.  It is a view so spectacular that it nourishes the body, mind, and spirit and keeps you coming back to the very same spot year after year.

Elbow Beach, Bermuda

Elbow Beach, Bermuda

Elbow Beach, Bermuda

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Andi’s Pick: Old Edwards Inn And Spa

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Old Edwards Inn and Spa: Highlands, North Carolina

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

First Impression

For years, I had heard rumors that there was a hidden gem nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains named Old Edwards Inn and Spa.  I am not sure what took me so long to visit since it was just a short drive away, but once I arrived, I never wanted to leave.  I instantly knew why this property had won one award after another and why so many people had told me that it was a must-visit destination.  It was even voted #1 Hotel Spa in North America by Condé Nast Traveler’s readers in 2010.

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

Location

Highlands, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, feels as though it has been preserved in time.  Walk outside the hotel’s front door and you will find yourself amidst first-class shopping, dining, and culture.  Since it is surrounded by the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains and a temperate rainforest, you will also encounter some of the most beautiful natural attractions that the Unites States has to offer ranging from pristine lakes, rivers, and waterfalls.  This rural community deserves its reputation as being one of America’s prettiest small towns.

The Room

Balancing urbane sophistication with rustic quaintness, the Old Edwards Inn and Spa puts guests’ minds at ease and lifts their spirits with its casual elegance, luxurious amenities, and impressive service.  This five-star retreat is an excellent setting for romance, individuals, girlfriend getaways, and family trips.  In your stunning room or suite, you will be enveloped by period antiques with European bedding and linens, and many are accompanied by terraces that offer sweeping views of downtown Highlands.

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

The Bathroom

The spacious en suite bathroom was my favorite part about the suite I stayed in.  I was told that if I wanted the marble tiled floor warmer or cooler, all I had to do was notify the front desk and they would change it immediately to my liking.  The Molton Brown bath products complemented the lavish towels perfectly.

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

The Extras

There are many thoughtful touches to be discovered throughout the hotel including: champagne upon arrival, an all-day Butler’s pantry with complimentary drinks and Dove Bars, Keurig coffee machines in the accommodations, and a lovely evening turn-down service that comes with a surprise treat and a note with the weather forecast for the following day.  It is specifically because the property goes above and beyond for their beloved guests, that The Farm at Old Edwards, a thirty-three acre pastoral setting on the grounds, has now become a popular destination-wedding venue.  In fact, the entire property is a wedding photographer’s dream-come-true backdrop – it is so gorgeous that you can imagine a bride and groom posing everywhere!

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

Old Edwards Inn and Spa is a glimmering jewel in North Carolina’s lure.  No matter what the season, their phenomenal, award-winning health spa will pamper you in a style that you could easily get accustomed to.  And true to the Highlands reputation as being a foodie’s destination, the chefs at the resort’s restaurant Madison’s demonstrate on a daily basis their incredible skill with products from local farms.

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