Spring is in the air and with the Easter holiday about to start it’s an ideal time to take advantage of the long weekend and get away. Whether you want to do some spring shopping, spend time with family and friends, indulge in some Easter chocolate or looking to book a last minute getaway – these spring-time travel suggestions are sure to inspire.

HOTEL GANSEVOORT, MEATPACKING, NEW YORK CITY

meat1 Siren Offers Five Easter Travel Ideas To Put A Spring In Your Step

View from Hotel Gansevoort Meatpacking

 Need to update your spring wardrobe? Hotel Gansevoort, Meatpacking         helps you shop until you drop with the Ultimate Shopping Spree  Escape package.  Not only is the hotel conveniently located in one of NYC’s hottest shopping neighbourhoods, this package also arms you with exclusive discounts to use at luxury designer stores.

The package includes;

  • Early check-in (2PM) and late check-out (2PM)
  • Deluxe room or Suite accommodations
  • Pool access and a complimentary poolside beverage
  • A Gift bag with exclusive discounts at high-end Meatpacking boutiques

Prices start at US$495 per room and at US$925 for suites.  Based on double occupancy.

For more information or to book please call, 1.212.206.6700 or visit http://www.hotelgansevoort.com/

 ONE&ONLY CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

Cape Town Siren Offers Five Easter Travel Ideas To Put A Spring In Your Step

One&Only Cape Town's Vista Bar

This Easter holiday, expect a full menu of delights for the whole family at One&Only Cape Town, South Africa’s only five star urban resort.

Sweet Treats
Bring the family to One&Only Cape Town for a decadent Afternoon Tea and enjoy the generous selection of beautifully made pastries and treats including Iced Bunny Biscuits, Chocolate Easter Eggcups and Bird’s nest cookies

 Decadent Dining
Family Sunday lunch at Reuben’s One&Only Cape Town is an institution at One&Only Cape Town and Easter Sunday is no exception. A special buffet will offer an array of Cape-influenced culinary delights featuring a selection of roast meats, succulent fish, fragrant curries and plenty of mouth-watering side dishes.

For more information or to book, please visit capetown.oneandonlyresorts.com

 

THE WESTIN TRILLIUM HOUSE, BLUE MOUNTAIN

Westin Siren Offers Five Easter Travel Ideas To Put A Spring In Your Step

The Westin Trillium House

Taking a holiday last minute has its advantages. Booking a stay at The Westin Trillium House at least 10 days in advance allows guests to save up to 40% with their Reserve & Relax promotion. Blue Mountain Village is just steps away from the hotel and is offering a selection of free fun-filled activities including live music, face painting and horse & carriage rides throughout Ontario’s largest pedestrian Village. There is always something to do at Blue Mountain Village including Plunge! Aquatic Centre, Crock-A-Doodle pottery, Dockside pond activities, Cascade Putting Course and Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster.

For more information or to book at The Westin Trillium House please call, 1.705. 443.8080 or visit http://deals.westin.com/Westin-Trillium-House-Blue-Mountain-Resort-1498/family.htm

Find the Blue Mountain Village calendar of events by visiting http://www.bluemountainvillage.ca

 

THE CRANE RESIDENTIAL RESORT, BARBADOS

Crane Siren Offers Five Easter Travel Ideas To Put A Spring In Your Step

The world-famous Crane Beach

Spend this Easter at The Crane, the Caribbean’s first resort hotel.  The Crane is a truly unique property set on Barbados’ world famous Crane Beach, allowing guests to enjoy a sense of seclusion while surrounded by natural beauty. The Crane’s award-winning and recently renovated restaurant L’Azure offers an incredible Sunday Gospel Breakfast Buffet- perfect for Easter morning.  Described as “Heaven on Earth” brunch guests enjoy Caribbean gospel music, traditional Barbadian cuisine and breathtaking views of Crane Beach.

Rates start at USD 369.00

For more information or to book please call, 1.866.978.5942 or visit http://thecrane.com/

CASA DE CAMPO, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Casa Siren Offers Five Easter Travel Ideas To Put A Spring In Your Step

Relax by the Casa De Campo Pool

Casa De Campo invites families to getaway this spring for less. With the Casa Families offer children under 12 stay, eat and play for free when parents add the Essentially Casa Inclusive Supplement. The supplement offers 50% of a guaranteed connecting room, perfect for children or grandparents. The package is available from April 25th, 2012 to September 30th, 2012 for travel between the same dates.

Rates start at USD 345.00

For more information or to book, please call  1.800.523.8698 or visit http://www.casadecampo.com.do/ use booking code: CASA/FAM

 

 

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Getaway Idea: Silversea Cruises

La Terrazza Getaway Idea: Silversea Cruises

Interior designer, television personality and featured columnist, Jeffrey Fisher, recently wrote an account of his experience on Silversea’s Silver Spirit for the Luxury Living section of the National Post, calling it a “floating country club”. It got us thinking about the different types of cruise ships and how their experiences differ incredibly.

Many people shy away from cruising because they picture massive ships with pre-determined dining times and  deck after deck of over-the-top amenities (we won’t name names). While this type of cruising does attract certain travellers, namely those looking for a party, we prefer a more quiet and relaxed getaway.

Quiet doesn’t have to mean boring though. As Jeffrey Fisher discovered, there is plenty onboard Silversea to entertain the senses – nightly jazz shows at Stars Supper Club, an 8,300 square-foot spa, daily activities like Trivia and enriching lecture series. The formalized dress code creates an atmosphere of sophistication and elegance – much more our speed.

Luxury doesn’t always have to be pricey. Silversea has cruises for as low at $1,999 per person and many voyages include airfare and/or shipboard credits – meaning free spa treatments, onshore excursions and more. Sign us up!

 

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Weekend Buzz: Friday deals, fine dining & French week

One Bedroom Suite Bedroom Nov Weekend Buzz: Friday deals, fine dining & French week

Book by Friday and save on a visit to Westin Trillium House at Blue Mountain

Escape to Westin Trillium House this weekend and take advantage of the warm weather at Blue Mountain Resort. There are a ton of exciting activities for you and your family to enjoy, including hiking, the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster and more. The best part? Book your room at Westin Trillium House by this Friday and save at least 20%! Rates start from $143. For more information, please visit www.westinbluemountain.com

OO PALMILLA MARKET 1 1 150x150 Weekend Buzz: Friday deals, fine dining & French week

Market at One&Only Palmilla

Wine and dine with Michelin-starred chef Jean-George Vongerischten at his restaurant Market at One&Only Palmilla on Sunday, March 24th from 6-10pm. The menu features his signature style blended with traditional Mexican ingredients, complimented by a collection of exceptional wine pairings by winemaker Robert Kamen of Kamen Estate Wines in Sonoma Valley. The evening is open to One&Only Palmilla guests and the local community and is priced at $175/person or $225/person. For reservations call +52 624 146 7000 or email reservations@oneandonlypalmilla.com.

AltosdeChavon Church 150x150 Weekend Buzz: Friday deals, fine dining & French week

Altos De Chavon Church, Casa De Campo

Looking for a bit of that ‘je ne said quoi’? Casa de Campo resort in the Dominican Republic is embracing French culture and traditions during the Semana de Francia (French Week) from March 22nd – 25th. Experience a variety of entertaining French activities, traditional music, charming products and fabulous food in the quaint village of Altos de Chavón during the three day celebration. Golf enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the friendly competition golf tournament between Dominican and French players on the award-winning Teeth of the Dog course. The tournament begins March 24th at 8:00am followed by a lunch, prize ceremony and evening gala. For more information on the French festivities, visit http://semanadefrancia.com

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ASA2 Travel Tuesday: Wellbeing Getaway at Auberge Saint AntoineWelcome back to Travel Tuesday, Siren’s hot deals for those in need of a luxe getaway today at an exceptional price.

Who, What, Where:

Spring has sprung suddenly this year, leaving many of us unprepared to relax and enjoy patio season, Spring outfits, and eventually the beach. We think it’s time to escape to a more refined place, collect ourselves and prepare for the sunny seasons. Enter Auberge Saint-Antoineand their incredible Wellbeing Package.

Stay at one of Canada’s most celebrated boutique hotels, in the heart of old Quebec City. Book a room for two, and receive two massages or manicures to brighten the senses (and the nails!). You can even valet your car for free in the hotel’s heated indoor parking. After a  blissful stay you will be more than ready to take on Spring!

The rate is from $135 per person, and to book it all you need to do is call  1-888-692-2211, and don’t forget to mention the booking code,SIREN. The package is available till April 30th, 2012.

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Siren’s Favourite Things: Spring Cocktails

Spring is in the air, which can only mean one thing: patio season! There is nothing like sipping on your favourite spring cocktail when the temperature starts to peak. From your comfy cottage porch to the swankiest rooftop condo, a cool crisp cocktail is perfect for any locale. The following four cocktails are inspired by a few of Siren’s hottest clients. Best of all, you don’t need to be a champion bartender to make them!
Crane Berry Mojito 175x300 Sirens Favourite Things: Spring Cocktails The Crane-inspired ‘Berry Mojito’

This great mojito has the minty taste you love, with a turquoise twist that reminds us of Crane Beach, The Crane Resort’s beach, often noted as the best in Barbados. Make a batch and reminisce with friends about crystal clear waters and Caribbean sun-kissed skin. Who knows? You might just book your next getaway sooner than you think!

Ingredients:
5 fresh mint leaves
1 tsp. granulated sugar
4 lime wedges, juiced
2 oz. Bacardi Razz
1/4 oz. Chambord
1/4 oz. Blue Curaçao
Splash of club soda
Garnish: mint, raspberries and blueberries

Crush mint in a tall cocktail glass. Combine sugar and lime juice. Add and mix Bacardi, Chambord and Blue Curaçao. Top up with club soda, garnish and enjoy!

OO Sunset Punch 251x300 Sirens Favourite Things: Spring Cocktails One&Only Palmilla-inspired ‘Sunset Punch’

This pretty punch brings together all the wonder and colour of an unforgettable One&Only Palmilla sunset. A lighter take on an old favourite, the Sunset Punch is most deliciously enjoyed during that last glimmer of sunshine (and before the nocturnal cocktails are mixed!).

Ingredients:
1 bottle of fruity red wine (the lighter, the better)
1/4 cup Triple Sec
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup of strawberries, sliced
3 oranges, 1 juiced, 2 sliced into rounds
1 lemon, sliced into rounds
1 nectarine, sliced into wedges

Squeeze one orange into a large pitcher. Add remaining fruit. Combine wine, Triple Sec and sugar. Stir until dissolved. Lightly crush fruit with a wooden spoon. Chill for 1 hour then cheers!

Panche Kir 300x225 Sirens Favourite Things: Spring Cocktails Auberge Saint-Antoine ‘Panache Kir’

Auberge Saint-Antoine has the best cocktail menu in Quebec City, and the Panache Kir is their signature drink. This charming, mouth-watering beverage is the perfect way to add some je ne sais quois into your day. A sparkling toast with some French flair is the ideal way to welcome Spring!

Ingredients:
½ oz. Chambord liqueur
¼ oz. maple syrup
4 oz. sparkling Spanish wine
1 oz. sour cherry ‘eau de vie’

Gansevoort Corncopia Kiss Sirens Favourite Things: Spring Cocktails Hotel Gansevoort, Meatpacking ‘Cornucopia Kiss’

Perfect for a night out at Plunge Rooftop + Lounge, this cocktail is a fun take on the vodka martini made popular by Carrie in Sex and the City. Round up your best gal pals and dance the night away at Hotel Gansevoort, Meatpacking, NYC’s urban oasis with one of the sweetest views in the city.

Ingredients:
½ oz. of Vodka
¼ oz. of Pineapple Juice
Add splash of wine or champagne
Finish off with Black Raspberry Liqueur

Silversea Coral Reef Sirens Favourite Things: Spring Cocktails Silversea Cruises, ‘Coral Reef’

Silversea’s very own Wine Consultant, Lyn Farmer, created this exclusive cocktail, named for its coral-pink spring hue. Loosely based on the Negroni, the Coral Reef has a chic and simple presentation, boasting an explosive flavour, ideal for sun-drenched afternoons on the pool deck or setting sail in the sunset.

Ingredients:
2 oz Plymouth gin
1 oz St. Germain
0.75 oz Aperol
Club soda
1 lemon twist, as garnish

Build ingredients in a highball glass over ice. Add the garnish and serve.

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Siren’s Top-Five Girls Getaway Destinations

gg 300x150 Sirens Top Five Girls Getaway Destinations

Stress- free, non-stop fun and most importantly- no boys.  There really isn’t anything that compares to a girlfriends getaway.

Whether you can only get away for the weekend or have managed to find a week that works with everyone’s busy schedules there are a number of vacation options to consider.

For ladies looking to spend some quality time together, Siren has put together our top five picks that make for the perfect girls-only holiday.

kourtney kim take new york3 300x201 Sirens Top Five Girls Getaway Destinations

Heal the Kardashian way at Hotel Gansevoort Meatpacking

1. Yes, New York City might seem like an obvious pick but there are many ways to make a trip to the Big Apple with friends unique. The Hotel Gansevoort Meatpacking can help you Heal Like A Kardashian – a wellness package inspired by the famous reality sisters who filmed their last season at the uptown Gansevoort Park Avenue. You and your girlfriends can heal and feel just like the Kardashians as you experience their favourite spa treatments.

This package starts at $585 per night in a superior room. Guests can also enjoy the Heal Like A Kardashian package at the Gansevoort Park Avenue.

auberge Sirens Top Five Girls Getaway Destinations

The historic Auberge Saint Antoine

2. Round up the girls and travel to Quebec City via train, plane or automobile and stay at the historic Auberge Saint-Antoine in the heart of the city’s Old Port.  The hotel‘s wellbeing package is a perfect addition to your holiday as you explore this historic city with your closest friends. After a day of site-seeing or shopping you and your friends can get ready to relax and choose from a massage or manicure.

This package is available until April 30th 2012. Rates are from $135 per person,    in double occupancy.


screening2 300x300 Sirens Top Five Girls Getaway Destinations

The Hazelton Hotel Silver Screening Room

3. Looking to spend time with friends but want to stay close to home? There is nothing wrong with a girlfriends staycation. For GTA based ladies, the luxurious Hazelton Hotel is the place to go to get the VIP treatment.  Perfectly located in Toronto’s trendy Yorkville district, the city’s best shopping, restaurants and entertainment is right at your doorstep. The Hazelton Hotel is the hotel of choice for A-list celebrities visiting Toronto due to its impeccable service.  Best of all, you can get ready for spring with your choice of a classic manicure and pedicure or a 60 minute scrub at the Spa at the Hazelton for only $90 + tax during the month of March. Monday-Thursday appointments only while spots last.
 
 

westin 300x200 Sirens Top Five Girls Getaway Destinations

The Westin Trillium House in Blue Mountain

4. Blue Mountain and The Westin Trillium House are the ideal destination for sporty ladies looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Girlfriends can enjoy each other’s company as they relax at the Scandinave Spa, complete with outdoor hot and cold Scandinavian baths, a Finnish sauna, eucalyptus steam room and more.  For those wanting to stay active the award winning Westin Trillium House offers yoga classes as well as a fully equipped WestinWORKOUT powered by Reebok Gym.  Blue Mountain Village is always full of energy and brimming with boutiques, restaurants and nightlife.
 
 

trade 300x300 Sirens Top Five Girls Getaway Destinations

TradeWinds Experience- the ultimate adventure

5. For a group of girlfriends in search of adventure-what could be more exciting than setting sail on their own private catamaran? TradeWinds Experience offers just that- the opportunity to sail and explore the Caribbean on a luxury catamaran complete with a qualified captain and crew as well as a private chef.  Whether guests wish to take part in the sailing of the catamaran, or simply sit back and enjoy the deep blue waters and white sandy beaches, the crew is on hand to make the holiday unforgettable.

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OO CC Lobby low res 201x300 Siren Favourite Things: South African Escape with One&Only Cape TownIt’s not every day that you’re offered a free trip to Cape Town, South Africa! The gorgeous One&Only Cape Town resort is giving away a four-night stay including roundtrip airfare via South African Airways. The prize package also includes dinner for two at Reuben Riffel’s eponymous Reuben’s restaurant (with wine pairings) and private tour services from Micato Safaris.

To enter the contest, participants must “like” the One&Only Resorts Facebook page and fill out the entry form under the “Sweepstakes” tab. The contest is open to US and Canadian residents, but is only open until March 25th – so drop everything you’re doing and enter now!

The Cape Town region tops the list of our dream destinations, as it offers both urban vibrancy and access to some very unique excursions – such as to the nearby Swaarthland wine region. We’re told by Sommeliers that the Swaarthland is the next “it” hotspot for wine.

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Siren’s Last Minute March Break Escapes

westin blog Siren’s Last Minute March Break Escapes

Family-fun at nearby Blue Mountain.

March break is the perfect pre-spring getaway for families, couples and friends alike. Escape the daily grind. Whether you’re a sun worshiper, city slicker or outdoor aficionado these March travel promos will leave you recharged and ready for warmer weather.

Westin Trillium House is offering a ‘4th night free’ extended vacation travel promo, including a CAD$50 resort credit. Bring the family closer together and get active! Don’t miss the free outdoor concert on March 14th featuring Juno-nominated musician and reality TV star, Suzie McNeil.

The Crane beach2 300x200 Siren’s Last Minute March Break Escapes

Crane Beach, Barbados

 

It’s not too late to escape to Barbados! The Crane is offering a special 30-40% off sale on all room categories. It’s the perfect pick! Crane Beach, known as the best in Barbados for swimming and body surfing, is mere steps away.

The “Sunny Escapes” package is just right  for March Break, offering 2 complimentary nights when guests reserve a 5 night stay at the sun-drenched One&Only Palmilla resort. The exceptional offer includes a generous USD$200 resort credit.

March Break is the perfect time to peruse Manhattan’s most stylish boutiques and revamp your spring wardrobe. Hotel Gansevoort Meatpacking’s “Ultimate Shopping Spree Escape” package offers fashionistas exclusive discounts to luxury stores in the trendy Meatpacking District, including Trina Turk, Rebecca Taylor, Rag & Bone, Theory, DVF, Bloomingdales and more.

serpentslide 300x216 Siren’s Last Minute March Break Escapes

The Serpent Slide at Atlantis, Paradise Island

Atlantis, Paradise Island is jam-packed with sand and sea adventures. Aquaventure, the Caribbean’s largest waterpark, is the ultimate aquatic playground, featuring river rides, exotic marine life and 11 refreshing pools. Travel between March 23rd and June 20th, 2012 and receive the 4th night free!

Casa de Campo is offering an amazing USD$295 per night all inclusive rate for March sun seekers. Enjoy world-class cuisine and ample activities at the luxurious resort. Perk: the Kids at Night program gives mom and dad the night off to wine and dine in private.

RR BK 1811 Fanditha Beach 270x300 Siren’s Last Minute March Break Escapes

One&Only Reethi Rah

With One&Only Reethi Rah’s Spring Getaway Offer, stay 7 nights in a Beach Villa, Beach Villa with pool or Water Villa and receive the seventh night complimentary. This offer can be combined with the Family Offer so that two kids under age 11 and sharing the same room with their parents will eat and sleep free.

For couples looking to take a quick March Break getaway, try a Silversea Cruise. Voyage 5208 departs Fort Lauderdale with stops in Turks & Caicos, St. Barts, Antigua, St. Kitts and Tortola – an exploration of the most luxurious Caribbean locales.

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Travel Tuesdays: Gansevoort Turks + Caicos

New Infiniti new front day Travel Tuesdays: Gansevoort Turks + Caicos

Still haven’t booked your March Break getaway?

Have no fear, Siren’s Travel Tuesdays deal has you covered.

Who, What, Where:

Gansevoort Turks + Caicos is a gem of the Caribbean. The sleek boutique hotel is located on the white sand shores of Grace Bay, one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. With direct flights from Toronto, guests will go from take off to ‘toes in the sand’ in under four hours.

Book four nights and enjoy the fifth night free with the Canuck special.

Guests will also receive:

  • Bottle of champagne upon arrival
  • $50 resort credit per adult (one-time)
  • 10% discount at exhale spa (spa treatments only)
  • Early check-in and late check-out, based on availability

Phone 888-844-5986 for reservations and be sure to mention the Canuck promo.

Valid on bookings from now until May 23rd, 2012, subject to availability and black out dates.

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Citified: Bangkok

bangkokskyline Citified: Bangkok

Bangkok Skyline

Bangkok, Thailand is a non-stop contradiction – from old world temples and makeshift markets to sky-soaring architecture and luxury boutiques. There is no such thing as boredom in Bangkok. This colourful capital has something for everyone’s budget. Here are the ‘highs and lows’ of this South East Asia gem.

EAT:

Vertigo Grill and Moon Bar 300x175 Citified: Bangkok

Feel on top of the world at Vertigo

High: If you can brave the Bangkok view from 61 floors up, then you must try Vertigo Grill and Moon Bar. Enjoy BBQ seafood and Thai delights among the stars. After dinner, stay a while and enjoy a sky-high martini. Note: Vertigo shuts down during high winds, so check the forecast before you head out.

Low: Bangkok is probably THE most budget-friendly cosmopolitan capital city. Food stalls along the cramped streets offering simple al-fresco dining are plentiful, delicious and easy on the wallet. Beef noodle soup, pad Thai and a fresh mango shake for dessert costs less than $5. Not bad for a three course meal!

SHOP:

High
: Spend the day at Siam Paragon, one of Asia’s largest shopping complexes.  It’s also the most expensive in Bangkok. Spread across 13 acres, Siam Paragon features everything from designer duds like Armani, Valentino and Jimmy Choo to Thai silk boutiques and even an opera concert hall! Don’t forget to check out Siam Ocean World on your way out, South East Asia’s largest aquarium.

Low: Get lost in the mayhem at Chatuchak Weekend Market, the largest weekend market in the world. New and vintage clothes, Asian antiques, colourful lanterns, Buddhist statues and more are all for sale at bargain prices – if you can find it! This market mecca is full of surprises. Exploring the maze is half the fun!

EXPLORE: 

bangkok spa Citified: Bangkok

experience luxury at a world-class Thai spa


High:
  If you’re looking for the ultimate East Asian spa experience, the Oriental Spa at Mandarin Oriental Hotel was voted the best spa in the world, according to Travel + Leisure. Spend the day being luxuriously pampered in an exquisitely restored century-old teakwood house. The full-body scrub using grated coconut, green bean, jasmine rice and coconut oil smells like pure bliss (or so I imagine!).

Low: The infamous book ‘The Beach’ describes Koh San Road as “a halfway house between East and West”. The iconic Bangkok street is jam packed with backpacker bars, cheap guesthouses, tour agencies, quirky shops, market stalls, tattoo and massage parlors, eateries and much more. There’s no doubt that the legendary Koh San Road is a smorgasbord of everything and anything. Be prepared for the masses!

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The Grand Palace

Also: Be sure to visit Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace, where both the revered Emerald Buddha carved from solid jade and the King of Thailand reside. Intricately tiled facades, shimmering gold Buddha statues and exquisite wall murals are the centre focus of this top culture spot. Note: Don’t forget to take a cute pic with one of the stern-faced Palace guards.

 

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