Top 20 Featured Listings on StepUp Travel

Luxury cottage accommodation in Lucca, Italy

2009-02-14T08:23:47+00:00

Comprised of 3 cottages - sleeps 20 The complex also offers a huge tiled patio area for al fresco dining with panoramic views over historic Lucca and towards Pisa and the sea, and is completed by an enormous heated pool with hydromassage and landscaped gardens. A huge Functions room/Conference room comprising fireplace and large kitchen is also available, in addition, there is a BBQ and wood burning oven. There also two car parks inside the property. In the immediate vicinity there are two excellent restaurants renowned for their Tuscan cuisine. Luxury cottage accommodation in Lucca, Italy with swimming pool set in an ancient medieval borgo nestled in the splendid hills of Tuscany, cradled between olive groves and vineyards, and only 5 kilometers from Lucca, lies the magnificent cottages of "The Borgo". The owner has maintained the original character of the village in this group of cottages. It features a communal area, a place where people can spend time together. Inside the cottage it is welcoming and homely as well as being both comfortable and modern. Completely restored combining traditional materials with new technology and furnished in local Tuscan style, the holiday accommodation cottage offers you elegant and traditional living.The rooms are large, simple and well-furnished with fabulous views from every window. The owners have taken care to offer you every facility: to meet your needs and give you privacy. Take advantage of the wonderful heated swimming pool and Jacuzzi and relax in the area around it. The communal area has a fitness centre with gym and Turkish bath, as well as a large room with a fireplace, barbecue and kitchen which can be used for special occasions. "The Borgo" offers all of this plus it is in a sunny position with a dry and mild climate (due to its nearness to the sea) making it enjoyable all year round. Lucca Toscana Italy

Sudamerika Hostel & Suites Recoleta

2009-07-20T11:44:25+00:00

SudameriKa Recoleta is a wonderful place, located in the most exclusive neighborhood in Buenos Aires, RECOLETA. It is very near to the most important national universities and the Recoleta touristic area. The subway line D at Pueyrredon station or Facultad de Medicina station are very close, 4 blocks and a half. This connects you with all the subway networks, letting you arrive, particularly, to Retiro strain station, to Retiro long-distance bus station and to Constitucion train station. Besides, the same subway line leads you to the north part of the city. More than 10 local buses lines lead you there (lines 152, 39, 41, 101, 62, 59, 106, 60, 12 and others). Any line that goes along Santa Fe Ave. Or Las Heras Ave are good options. Another point of reference is the Recoleta Cementery, just 3 blocks away. If you take a taxi , you should mention the intersection of Pueyrredon Ave with Santa Fe Ave, or the intersection of Pueyrredon Ave with Las Heras Ave. We offer Suites single, double or triple with private bathroom. Also shared room for two or four paxes with external bathroom. All suites with sommiers, Cable TV, Central Heating System, Air conditioning or Ceiling fans. Internet access for free and Internet Wi Fi at the lobby. Televisión and DVD at the lobby Breakfast is included in all fares. Jose E. Uriburu 1287 b/Arenales & Juncal Buenos Aires Distrito Federal Argentina

Tuscany luxury holiday villa with swimming pool in Bucine, Siena

2009-02-14T08:25:15+00:00

This luxury villa and its annex offer accommodation for 26 guests in the countryside of Tuscany with views over the valley of Bucine, Siena. This luxury villa that dominate two gentle hills with 360° degree views of rolling hills that spread as far as the eye can see. Villa Monte 3 offer all the modern comforts and have been decorated respecting the traditional style of the time maintaining intact its original architectural features. This villa has its own private pool in a beautiful panoramic position. There is a lovely pond with pedal boats, beautiful paths in the wood and vineyards for walking. Ground Floor: Huge living room with large stone arches and fireplace, large sitting room with satellite television, bathrooms with shower and a beautiful covered loggia across to a large Tuscan Kitchen with multiple ranges, microwave, dishwasher and fridge freezer. Access through to a large dining room with central trestle table and French doors out onto a large terrace or out onto the central courtyard with a floor of cotto and volcanic tufo stone. First Floor: Accessed via an internal travertine stone staircase to 1 double room with private bathroom and staircase up to a large walk in wardrobe, 2 double bedrooms with galleried sitting area and en suite bathrooms with shower, 2 double bedrooms with en suite bathroom with shower and large wardrobe, 1 double bedroom with private living room and whirlpool bath. Annexe: A separate building 20 mt from the main villa has also been converted. Ground floor: large double bedroom with kitchen corner and en suite bathrooms with shower, 2 small double bedrooms with en suite bathrooms with shower and an internal stone staircase leads up to two more double bedrooms with their own bathroom each. Private terrace in tufo and cotto tiles. Siena Toscana Italy

Anukampa Bed and Breakfast

2009-05-12T11:44:19+00:00

Anukampa Bed and Breakfast is reputed B&B Home Stay facility in Jaipur (Rajasthan) INDIA. It is a newly constructed beautiful building. The surrounding area of Anukampa Bed and Breakfast are green and peaceful, the accommodation homely and comfortable, which makes it an ideal bed and breakfast accommodation in Jaipur. It all adds to its reputation as being a choicest B&B Home Stay facility in Jaipur. Fulfillment can come only by mixing with people, living with them; interacting, sharing, caring with them; observe them in real life situation, experiencing & understanding their culture, traditions, values, thoughts, beliefs, life style, food etc. That can be have only by staying in their homes. This can happen only when you know some one who knows the Pulse of the city and can make things convenient for you. Not by staying in a soulless hotel. Where you will find plastic smile & hands folding out for tips from each corner. With this idea keeping in mind and following the true spirit of Indian tradition of “Atithi Devo Bhav” (In India we treat our Guest as a God). We have opened our home and hearts for you through our Jaipur Bed & Breakfast – “Anukampa”. Your “Anukampa” has been approved & awarded “Silver-Star” rating by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, which is in itself an assurance of top class security, quality of services & comfort to the guest. About Us :- Stay with us and become a part of our Indian family. Experience sharing, caring, warmth and very spiritual environment. Wherever possible, we do things together. Our focus is on your comfort and safety, ensuring you has an encompassing, meaningful and positive experience of Jaipur and India. We invite national & international travelers to experience the sites, sounds and tastes of Jaipur from the comfort of our home, the Anukampa Bed and Breakfast. We would be happy to assist you in making appropriate onward reservations, recommendations about places of interest in and around Jaipur, car hire, shopping, etc. Our aim is providing all you need to begin your own independent adventure. You are most welcome to experience comfort and hospitality in the true spirit of giving. Location:- Anukampa Bed and Breakfast is located at Tilak Mark, Patel Marg, Mansarovar, Jaipur. The Sanganer,Jaipur International Airport is 6 Km away. Jaipur Railway Station & Interstate Bus Terminal (Sindhi Camp) is 10 and 11 Km away respectively. Durgapura Railway Station is 2 Km away & Gandhi Nagar Railway Station is 5 Km away. The location is ideal for all business travelers and tourists, as it is in the heart of Jaipur. Rooms:- Anukampa Bed and Breakfast is located in a newly constructed three storey building with luxurious and spacious rooms for guests. There is one big drawing room or lounge, a dining area, kitchen, well lit lobbies, office & visitor's gallery. The guesthouse also has ample car parking space. The guestrooms are centrally cooled and well appointed, and have amenities like an electronic safe, cable/satellite T.V. Telephone, Internet connectivity, and an attached bathroom with modern fittings along with hot and cold water running, guest message service, food authentic Indian, south Indian lunch,/dinner on request. 24 hour room service is also available. Dining and Facilities:- Anukampa Bed and Breakfast offers complimentary Indian/Continental Breakfast to all guests. It also provides authentic Indian lunch/dinner to the guest on request. Other facilities include: laundry service, doctor on call, free luggage storage facilities, travel desk with cab on call, water purifier, reservation centre & guides, fax services, power back up, and parking facility. Anukampa Bed and Breakfast also accepts all major credit cards. Your “Anukampa” has been approved & awarded “Silver-Star” rating by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, which is in itself an assurance of top class security, quality of service & comfort to the guest. Facilities:- Newly Constructed Well furnished Rooms Central Cooling System Attached Toilets 24 hrs running Hot & Cold water Tea/Coffee maker on request Hair Dryer on request Iron/Iron board on request. Room Service Authentic Indian Delicious Food Cable T.V., Telephone in Rooms. STD/ISD, Internet facility Central Electronic Security System Well Lit Lobbies. 24 hrs Doctor on call Laundry & valet facility Cloak, Lost & Found Room. Guest Message Service GYM, Swimming Pool, Bar & Public Park near by Beauty Parlor, Body massage on request Area is well connected with frequent Transport Facility. City Bus Stop/Auto/Taxi Stand, Bank ATM, Hospital, Cyber Café, Beauty Parlor, Restaurant, Bar, Market (Stationary, STD, PCO, Grocery, Bakery, Fast Food, Sweet Shops, Departmental/Branded Stores like – Reliance Fresh, Black Berry, Liberty etc.) Are at walking distance from Anukampa.. "Anukampa" 102/17,Tilak Marg,Patel Marg,Mansarovar,Jaipur-302020 Jaipur Rajasthan India

Backpackers' Oasis In Xi'an

2009-02-11T20:21:23+00:00

We are proud of being the original hostel even in Western China, which is often imitated but never duplicated. The location is definitely the best in Xi'an, as it's so central and easy to find everything, You truly are in the heart of Xi'an culture. our hostel is a perfectly preserved traditional Chinese courtyard house. Like our character, it is original and not a recently rebuilt imitation building. With several outdoor and indoor seating areas in a very relax atmosphere All of our staff speak English and will do their best to make your stay in Xi'an as comfortable and accommodating as possible. In that same spirit we also offer a full host of tours and guides to Xi'an's most famous sites. If it's off the beaten track you are looking for than we can help you there too, many of our staff are travelers themselves and know what it is travelers are looking for when they come to a new place! We are also only a minute walk from the the flourishing shopping district and the Muslim Quarter. Walking up and down the main road you will find everything thing from a high class dining to local restaurants enough to facilitate all tastes and budgets. Behind our hostel, is Defu Lane which has over 30 cafes, bars and tea houses. 2# Shuncheng Xilu inside South City Gate Xian Shaanxi China

Sea-side holiday rentals in north kerala

2009-03-16T15:19:50+00:00

Chera rocks is beautiful like a Da vinci picture,a Togore Poem,an amazing combination of blue sky and a green silent zone. Chera rocks, the real lonely planet,a complete contrast from busy city life, has no sounds of modern world.I am sure,before you leave the place you will learn to identify different types of natures sounds and also to enjoy the healing effects of these sounds.You will be amazed to find a lonely seashore with no sales person or masseur.....You and your gorgeous sea alone! Many of our guests felt it as their home and people as very friendly. I ensure you the same hospitality. You might have prepared a list of Indian food while booking the flight to India. Let me fulfill that and add some more lovely north kerala dishes.And give you a chance to learn about some of our dishes throgh our cookery classes. Chera rocks is creative... We have many facilities and you can choose as per your interest.... We are commited to keep the essence of nature and have organic food as much as possible.... When you walk around chera rocks what will you see? The simple people, simple life, temples... You may be surprised to see the easy accessibility to road, railway and international airports while chera rocks remains as a lonely planet.....Thats the way God has created it....Come and celebrate your holidays and make it unforgetable.... kozhikode Kozhikode Kerala India

Apartment Bartolommei - Florence city, Florence City

2009-02-16T08:07:15+00:00

The premises have been decorated to the highest standards, in a trendy contemporary style, by the internationally known interior designer Ilaria Miani. The location is superb: a few steps from Piazza della Signoria, the Uffizi and Ponte Vecchio. You get to the apartment by entering, at street level, a grand neoclassical hall with it's original columns and statues. A beautiful vaulted staircase leads to the upper floors. You will prefer to reach the 4th floor by using the newly installed mirror lined elevator. A private garage with storage facilities is at guests' disposal. Layout: • entrance lobby,large double volume living/dining room with fireplace (French door to fully furnished terrace/roof garden) • fully equipped eating kitchen TV, attic kitchen storage. • bedroom 1, master suite: king size bed, all marble bathroom, walk in shower with Turkish bath, stair to bathtub in loft, large counter, back down the stairs, door to terrace • bedroom 2, Lambertesca 1: twin beds, en suite marble bathroom, separate shower • bedroom 3, Attic, on the upper level: king size bed, en suite shower room with double stone sink • bedroom 4, Master 2 suite: king size bed, marble bathroom, wall mounted shower in the tub, stairs to private lofted sitting room with sofa/ day bed, 50” TV screen, and large counter, back down the stairs, door to terrace • bedroom 5, Lambertesca 2: king size bed, marble bathroom, stone sink, separate shower • guest toilet, laundry cupboard, storage. Amenities included in the rental price: • private garage with storage facilities • independent central heating • air conditioning • wireless internet connection • SKY sat TV • 3 hours daily maid service • basic pre arrival grocery Florence Toscana Italy

Hostel For Rental In Guilin

2009-02-11T20:36:42+00:00

An idyllic riverside Yangshuo hotel Our traditional Yangshuo hotel is just one hour from Guilin, in Yangshuo China. The Yangshuo Mountain Retreat is a 30-minute hike to spectacular Moon Hill, and the Copper Gate Mountain, one of the best technical climbing crags in the area is just a short walk. We are on the Yulong River, a tributary of the Li River surrounded by picturesque villages and endless stretches of emerald rice fields, with plenty of challenging hill & bike trails for Yangshuo adventure tours. For your China Travel plans there are daily flights to Guilin from Hong Kong and all major Chinese cities. The Mountain Retreat Family originates from the surrounding villages, bringing with us the local charm and traditional hospitality of Yangshuo. For the last six years, led by American owner Chris Barclay, we have all been trained extensively on the job and are able to fulfill multiple roles. In addition to learning English and hospitality management, we share a commitment to learning about the interests of our guests, and introducing them to the unique culture of Yangshuo. Our Mission To be a source of inspiration for guests, through the beauty of our surroundings, the quality of our service, and the sustainability of our business practices. Our Vision To be consistently recognized as a model tourism facility in China by offering superior value and an authentic experience to guests. Our work results in the prosperity of Yangshuo by creating opportunities for local people, and a deeper appreciation for their culture and history for all who visit us. Our Core Values Environmental Preservation - meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs Teamwork - supporting one another as a family, focusing on the common goal of delighting our guests Integrity - being who we say we are, keeping our promises and being honest in all communication Courage - taking a stand for one another and against practices not in line with our values Local Community Support - Investing in the education and welfare of people from our neighbouring villages Our Concept "The Yangshuo Mountain Retreat was conceived as a simple "Eco lodge" where expats in China could escape from the chaos of crowded, polluted mega-cities. In the beginning, we didn't have air conditioning, or a western kitchen, or even a computer, just a telephone and fax at the front desk. As the Retreat grew in popularity, we found it necessary to upgrade facilities, and so added air conditioning, computers and wireless broadband, as well as a pizza oven! But the rooms have remained simple as when we began: no telephone, no TV, no mini bar and a locally made cotton batting mattress. We have stayed true to the authenticity of our original concept, like making our own bamboo furniture and offering a simple menu with fresh local dishes and a few western favorites. We now serve wine and imported beer as well, but we remain a simple country inn where people from all over the world can go to experience the beauty and serenity of Yangshuo. A little more about us... Authenticity is central to the concept of the hotel. We aim to give our guests a truly authentic experience and manage to do this through our staff who are all from neighbouring villages, our rooms which are designed using the Chinese tradition of feng shui and through the general ambience, that is for many more like a home from home than a hotel. YSMR is also involved in charity work, most notably the Chinese-US Medical Foundation which was founded by Chris Barclay in 2002. We donate 5% of our profits to CUMF each year helping children with brittle bone disease across China. The charity came about after Chris's direct experience with Chun Li (Angel) the Yangshuo Mountain Retreat's front desk supervisor. An additional 5% of profits are allocated to our green initiatives which you can read about on our sustainable initiatives page. Guilin Guangxi China

Cardamom Club at Thekkady

2009-04-13T12:16:23+00:00

Cardamom Club is a Plantation Resort set amidst in a beautiful Cardamom farm situated in Thekkady, adjacent to the Periyar wild life sanctuary in Idukki, Kerala, India. It is covered around about 15 acres of lush green area offers a great view from its top end. It also provides many adventurous sports such as trekking rock climbing, fishing and angling. The Cardamom Club Thekkady, offers 7 Deluxe Double Rooms equipped with all modem comforts for the visitors to not only observe the wildlife but enjoy these adventurous experiences and make their tour more exciting and thrilling. Snuggled into a cozy valley, high up in the hills, with the grand old forest peaks towering paternally around it. Cardamom Club is as cut off from the world as you can get. What is does have however, is a fabulous, authentic experience of living in the middle of the jungle, some great treks, silver silence punctuated only by the occasional warning calls of birds or monkeys when a carnivore comes visiting. And it offers you the best peace you've had on vacation anywhere anytime. This 16acre property shares its boundaries, not fences with the Periyar wildlife sanctuary. The promoters of Cardamom Club are keen to offer nature oriented services & maintain an eco friendly atmosphere. Cardamom Club V & V Estate Spring Valley Thekkady, Kumily Kerala, INDIA - 685509 Thekkady Kerala India

Eco-tourism In Xi Shuang Ban Na

2009-03-01T03:35:11+00:00

The Tianzi Biodiversity Centre advocates an environmentally friendly tourism for the mutual benefits of tourists, visited people, and visited areas alike. The main principle of such kind of tourism is to contribute to biodiversity conservation through increasing the awareness of both travellers and local people about the natural landscape and its associated natural values. The Biodiversity Centre promotes tourism that is culturally sensible and enhances intercultural understanding. The Mekong Café in Jinghong is our main partner in organising visits to Xishuangbannas countryside with trekking tours into remote areas being its speciality. An example can be viewed here. Mekong Café's trekking tours help you to experience the beauty of the natural landscape of Xishuangbanna, the hospitality of the local people, and the lifestyle of the ethnic groups. We give value to personalised tours in small groups for a mutually enjoyable encounter between local people and tourists. Local guides who are experienced in guiding people interested in nature and culture lead the trekking tours and will share their knowledge with you. The Mekong Café in Jinghong is our main partner in organising visits to Xishuangbannas countryside with trekking tours into remote areas being its speciality. An example can be viewed here. Mekong Café's trekking tours help you to experience the beauty of the natural landscape of Xishuangbanna, the hospitality of the local people, and the lifestyle of the ethnic groups. We give value to personalised tours in small groups for a mutually enjoyable encounter between local people and tourists. Local guides who are experienced in guiding people interested in nature and culture lead the trekking tours and will share their knowledge with you. Mekong Café also offers a homestay experience in remote villages for small groups during the festival celebrations. Mekong Café can also help you to further explore Yunnan Province and its scenic spots like Shangri-La, Dali, Lijiang, Jianshui and Honghe region. Sample Tour: The tour starts with a bus trip to a small town at 1700 m a.s.l., where each Thursday a colourful market is held. The market features several ethnic groups (Bulang, Aini, Ake) coming together to sell their products. Because the market starts at day-break, we usually commence the tour on a Wednesday and stay overnight near the market place. After the market, the trekking starts directly on a small path to an Aini-village. You may follow the locals going home from the market and certainly will make first friends along the way. The next villages are all Bulang villages. Bulang people are very friendly and welcoming. The second night we will stay in a Bulang village. You will be welcomed by a tea and a cup of self-made liquor just the right things to relax after the first day's hard walk. The Bulang minority still keeps their traditional customs and all villages have nice temples and pagodas. Buddhist religion is part of everyday life here. Along the way you will always be greeted by nice huts, the so-called silang fang. They are an ideal place to rest, to picnic or to enjoy the natural scenery. These huts are a speciality of this area and stand for the vivid customs of the Bulang people. The trek is hard and hilly. There are several mountain ridges and valleys to cross. But the stunning landscapes, the varied forests, the clean rivers and nice villages along the way will make you forget the hardship. You will trek through different types of forest; mostly through dense subtropical mountain forest, but you also will experience the lush green of tropical rainforest with big trees and full of birdsong and insect noises. The tour can be tailored to your needs. Depending on the season, your fitness, your time and preferences it may take 3 up to 5 days and entail a 30 - 60 km walk. Our guide can take you to some special places like waterfalls, caves, and other romantic spots if time and weather permit. We preferably lead small groups of 2 - 6 persons. Our guide will advise you what to bring and will plan the tour with you in detail. The guide will also provide you with all the information you need along the way: ethnic groups, the natural environment, folk customs and tales. This trek is exclusively offered by MekongCafe. We have recently explored this new route and offer guides who are familiar with the area and speak the local language. The tour is definitely off the beaten track and features the best of Xishuangbanna. We would be glad to guide you through the mountains of Menghai County to give you a memorable experience and a deep impression about the beauty of Xishuangbanna and the hospitality of its people. Dali Zhejiang China

Villa close to Arezzo and Cortona, Tuscany, Italy

2009-02-16T10:49:17+00:00

Villa Michele is an old country residence skillfully restored and remodeled into an exclusive private retreat. The property is surrounded by four acres park, with Italian style garden and olive trees. All the original characteristics have been preserved. The brick floors, doorways, stone windows, brick ceiling and chestnut beams have been renovated using the villa`s authentic materials. The period furnishing and luxurious fabrics enhance the elegant and distinguishing atmosphere. There are two pools, an outdoor pool with overwhelming view of the surrounding countryside and an indoor heated pool, with inbuilt whirlpool. The villa is composed of 9 bedrooms with queen size double beds. All the bedrooms are beautifully decorated with period furnishing and rich fabrics, which gives an unique romantic atmosphere. All the rooms have en suite bathroom and are equipped with air-conditioning, satellite T.V and internet connection. There is a fully equipped professional kitchen and a laundry room with drying machine and iron. Other facilities available are mini-bar, phone, stereo/CD and lift. Sleeps: 20 Arezzo Toscana Italy

Explorer's Nest :The Bed and Breakfast traveller's Hostel in Jaipur

2009-03-16T09:45:48+00:00

Ours is a family run bed and breakfast travelers hostel of 5 rooms for the backpackers visiting Jaipur. Our Aim is to provide personalized and Homely feel to our services. It is a bed and breakfast set up with the comforts and warmth of a family home, where we sit together and eat, drink and share our travel experiences, discuss the next days program and places to see, laugh and sing and create bonds for life. The bed and breakfast hostel has Rooms with clean and hygienic attached baths.We provide Pawnshop services.We also have a library and a gym in the premises. Cycles are available on rent. Car rentals and tours help is provided. 3, Purohit Ji Ka Bagh, Near Jalupura crossing, Behind Lewis Showroom on MI Road, Gopinath Marg Jaipur Rajasthan India

Villa Vista - Greve in Chianti, Florence

2009-02-16T08:41:54+00:00

This luxury villa is about 5 kms in the hills above the charming market town of Greve in Chianti. Greve in Chianti is halfway between Florence and Siena, within easy reach of both historic towns. It is also close to the other Tuscan hill towns including Montepulciano and Montalcino. This newly renovated luxury villa has 6/7 bedrooms, with 6 bathrooms. It includes a new kitchen and large inglenook fireplace in the double height dining area. There is a very large table hear to seat 12-20 people. There is a gallery above and a large traditional Tuscan fireplace. This rests in front of a large inglenook fireplace for winter fires or summer grills. The dining room leads to outside terraces with lovely views of the surrounding woodland. Greve Toscana Italy

Gecko Villa

2009-03-16T08:58:12+00:00

Gecko Villa offers eclectic accommodation off the beaten track among the rice fields of NE Thailand. Guests gain a unique insight into the actual lives of villagers and the rhythms of rural life, and may vary their degree of interacton. The villa has a delightful private swimming pool. Fully catered and serviced. Between three small rural villages, Gecko Villa nestles with its private swimming pool, amongst the paddy fields in the Isaan plateau of Northeast Thailand. This stand alone, 3 bedroom Thailand villa getaway is exclusively yours during your stay, and is fully catered and serviced. It enjoys a privileged position upon its own grounds, comprising 20 hectares of gardens, orchards, woodlands, pastures and rice paddies. It is rare to find a house in the Thai countryside that offers every comfort for a relaxing stay in the real Thailand. Gecko Villa aims to fill this gap, and to offer a fully customizable stay to visitors. The property was built by those who operate it. Individuals, families and honeymoon couples may choose to stay in complete privacy, making the property their own during their holiday, or may seek much greater integration. In this latter case, your hosts will be happy to show you the area with its surrounding temples, rice fields and farmlands, to introduce you to Thai cooking and food, to accompany you to local festivals and to the surrounding villages. They will also be happy to help look after your children should you wish more time to yourselves. Special arrangements for guests in the past have included firework displays, pig roasts, an introduction to rice harvesting, marriage ceremonies, and mor lam music festivals: don't hesitate to let us know if you have any special requests for your next vacation! All proceeds from your stay at Gecko Villa in Thailand remain in the village, and as such your rental will contribute to this sustainable tourism project. Thailand

The Pimenta

2009-02-24T18:19:09+00:00

The Pimenta - Spice garden bungalows located in the midlands of kerala amidst lush green Forest garden growing spices and other trees and also medicinal herbs catered with Indian cooking course. Kerala's highly palatable cuisine is just as distinctive as its colourful cultural life and religious traditions. It's a cuisine influenced by the long coastline - and flavoured by the ubiquitous coconut. One enriched with exotic tropical fruits, vegetables, cereals, and herbs, garnished with the unmistakable aroma of pepper, cardamom chillies and cloves. A holistic and natural cuisine that follows the tenets of Ayurveda, mildly flavoured, gently cooked and with a certain genteel delicacy on the stomach. In short, it's a cuisine that's truly in harmony with the divine! Learn to create a wide range of dishes from one of the most intriguing cuisines of the world, in a relaxing environment where you will meet others who share your passion for food and for life. During this residential cooking course, you will be introduced to different preparations of rice, vegetable dishes, the use of coconut in food and the preparation of a Keralan festive lunch or dinner (known as a ‘Sadya’)in our seven day programme The course will be held in a traditional family home, set in the grounds of a working bio-organic spice garden. All of the recipes of the food prepared during the classes will be provided alongside, will also help you to make detailed flow charts outlining the cooking processes. The level will be basic Keralan vegetarian cooking with a special focus on the vegetables and ingredients available in other countries. Our Keralan Cooking Adventure isn’t just about being in the kitchen. You will also explore the spirit of the region and its people, with a range of captivating excursions that will be inspiring and relaxing. This is an exclusive course that will give you hands-on experience and so is limited to a maximum of eight people. The duration of the course will be eight days and seven nights for our 7day cooking adventure and 3 days and 3 nights for our 3 day cooking residencies. Cochin Kerala India

Luxury Thai rural pool villa

2009-03-16T09:00:38+00:00

Green Gecko is an architecturally stunning Thai villa, with a delighful negative edge private swimming pool, overlooking the wooods and plantations of Northeast Thailand, near Udon Thani. The villa sleeps four in total comfort and with all modern amenities, and stays are fully catered and serviced, with all meals and drinks, as well as airport transfers, included in the rates. Your local Thai host family live in a small, typical village a little way away, and will look after you during your trip and integrate you, to the extent you choose, in local life. We believe that there is a growing trend and desire amongst visitors to get off the beaten path and to track down a unique, one-of-a-kind experience. A hotel room that stacks us up with other displaced souls, or a resort that prefers us to remain within its walls, is less attractive than ever. Simultaneously, we believe that guests today have much higher expectations and seek a greater awareness of the lifestyles and traditions of the locales that they visit. They are keen to keep travel sustainable: with a constant eye upon the environment and a mind to help the indigenous people wherever possible, yet without sacrificing comfort, facilities and style. Green Gecko continues our principles of maintaining all revenues within the community, and developing sustainable tourism in Thailand's Northeast (or "Isaan") - traditionally one of the poorest regions of the country. Please join us! Udon Thani Thailand

Grandview Country Accommodation

2009-02-20T12:54:12+00:00

Welcome to Grandview Country Retreat — an award winning luxury bed and breakfast retreat in the heart of the Atherton Tablelands in Tropical North Queensland Australia, an easy scenic 70 minutes drive West of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef. The style of accommodation at Grandview is unique. Grandview is not a traditional bed and breakfast but has all the warmth and hospitality of an Australian Country Bed & Breakfast. The suites are fully self-contained with private entrances and facilities. The self-contained accommodation and facilities at Grandview cater for couples, families and groups wanting to escape for a relaxing holiday on the Atherton Tablelands. At Grandview guests can forget the crowds. Our three self-contained, individually themed apartment suites have been positioned for maximum privacy. Grandview guests can relax on their private decks and enjoy the 5 acres of award winning tropical gardens offering abundant birdlife and wildlife and beautiful views of the Atherton Tablelands. Cairns Queensland Australia

Beach House Rental. The perfect vacation villa.

2008-01-25T19:26:50+00:00

Brazil is well known by its beautiful beaches and hospitable people. Villa BrisaVerano is located nearby Fortaleza, an important city in the brazilian northeast area. We have a confortable 5 bedroom beach house, where you can enjoy every aspect of a tropical vacation: sun, constant breeze, sand and sea will be always a part of your experience during your stay here. A 3 minutes walk will bring you to one of the most beautiful beaches in our country. Porto das Dunas is pleasent white sand beach that hosts the biggest brazilian water park "Beach Park". If you are looking for a peacefull summer trip in a tropical paradise, you just found the perfect place to enjoy and relax with your family. Fortaleza Ceará Brazil

Villa Marchi - Impruneta, Florence, Italy

2009-02-14T08:25:54+00:00

Villa Marchi is surrounded by vineyards and olive orchards in the hillsides of Florentine Chianti, located on the road that connects Bagnolo to Impruneta. Impruneta is a nice little town known for its production of cotto (the cotto tiles of the Duomo, in Florence, were made in Impruneta). Villa Marchi is located only 2 km from Impruneta and we can find the famous imprunetine cotto in the amazing ceilings of the villa. Although the reputation of the estate is above all linked to the quality of its products its wines and extra virgin olive oil have won a great number of prices interest and attention has been paid to the historical and architectural elements of the villa. Sleeps: 14 Florence Toscana Italy

Holidays in North Kerala

2009-02-18T15:37:57+00:00

Chera Rocks is a sea side village of historic importance,located in the city of Looms and Lores,Kannur.Chera Rocks offers miles of white sandy beach backed by swaying coconut palm trees!. A beautiful scene of forest green merging into sea blue,oil lit lights hanging out in floating boats,fisher men with fishing nets,the far view of temple tombs,just like a portrait drawn out of our traditional village life....A real silent valley LOCATION Chera rock lies in between two famous sea side cities of Kerala, kannur and telicherry. Five kilometers away on both sides.A nice boat ride through the marvelous sea will take you to these cities. Or you can travel by road winding through the palm tree gardens and sea side villages. Both these cities experienced Invasions of British, French and Portuguese and suffered slavery for long. Centuries of wars and violence made people of this area as warriors. This has shaped their culture, arts, religion and life. The first trade center established by the British during the 17th century was near telicherry , a near by place. Both the cities, Telicherry and Kannur were protected by huge forts constructed by Portuguese and then fortified by the British till their departure after Indian independence. These forts, are situated a few minutes boat ride away from chera rocks. ACCOMMODATION Chera rocks has two types of accommodation, country side cottages and Rock View cottage. Cottages are designed in such a way that you get a close view of the sea through your windows. And the roof of the cottage is thatched .country side cottages have traditional model bed rooms with dressing room and bathroom.All the rooms are linked to common lounch. And the long and wide veranda gives you a chance to count the tides.Tea and coffee facilities are given in the cottage. ART AND CULTURE You might have heard a lot about the colourful mosaic of Indian festivals,culture and performing arts?.. And you might have seen a version of some of these in your home town too by the travelling performing artists! Here we stage the real,traditional performing arts through which the culture echoes,tradition speaks,beauty enthrals and diversity delights.................... THEYYAM Theyyam is a ritualistic dance with its rare costume,lively footwork,gymnastic fervour and ritualistic vitality.Theyyam represents a glorious period of folk life in kerala and the souls of the dead heroes of the land and the gods and goddesses are supposed to come to the middle through the medium of the possessed dancers and converse with us on matters of even contemporary significance.It is the worship of spirits by invoking them to the mortal body of the dancer who impersonates them and gives blessing to the believers! Theyyam evolves from kaliyattam practiced by tribal community of north kerala.The dancer(theyyam) transforms himself to the concerned deity with the help of his extreme devotion,preparation and also the rhythmic chanting of mantras and thottam songs.The thottam songs keep the pace of the theyyam throgh out the act and the singer also dances in a particular way while singing. Atmosphere is another important factor in creating the aura of divine splendour such as light, fire, open stage etc. KALARI PAYATTU Kalarippayattu is the mother of all martial arts in the world .The holistic approach of the training is aimed at the ultimate coordination and control over mind and body.The inherent beauty of this art form lies in the harmonious synergy of art,science and medicine. Anyone and everyone- young, old, working professionals--- can reap the benefits of the rich and treasured martial arts. It cures Arthritis, musculoskeletal problems, neurological problems etc. People from all over the world converge in to a small town called Thalassery to learn Kalaripayattu because of its amazing effects on health. And we do give a chance for our guests to get introduced to this system of treatment. So join the spirit of celebration and make your time in India a memmorable one with chera rocks. Kerala India