It’s All About Me

With a daybook filled with appointments from sun up to way past sun down, planning a holiday seems like a fleeting dream. Check out these three destinations and you’ll be moving book a flight/make a hotel reservation to the top of the to-do list.

Beach escape – Florida
Located on a sweet strip of creamy coloured sand in north Miami Beach, Acqualina is a welcome retreat from your daily rat race. Spacious rooms feature dream-inducing beds, huge bathrooms and plenty of space to stash your wardrobe (and new additions!). Take your pick from the beach area with its mini red cabanas or one of three pool areas, and benefit from attentive staff who regularly bestow you with offers of complimentary sunscreen, water and fresh fruit. Take time to indulge at Espa, a lavish spa retreat with plenty of stress-reducing treatments and side benefits such as the Crystal steam room with colour therapy lights, Finnish sauna and private pool. Bring your appetite and indulge your tastebuds with dinner at NYC fave resto Il Mulino and if you need to know the recipe, Executive Chef Michele Mazza hosts cooking classes to learn the secrets of his Italian kitchen. Not far from the glamour of South Beach for a night’s indulgence and a short hop to credit card worthy Bal Harbour Shops, Acqualina Resort is a perfect spot to recharge.

Acqualina Resort and Spa on the Beach
www.acqualinaresort.com

Island retreat – Grenada
Head to the southern Caribbean and chill out on a friendly isle with an average year round temperature of 27C/80F. Spice Island Resort is a eco-friendly and luxurious hotel, location along Grand Anse Beach, a two mile stretch of soft white sand along a sheltered bay, perfect for sunning and swimming. The beach front suites include a hammock for lazy moments while tree lined paths divide access to other suites that feature private pools and gardens. You’ll love the Frette sheets, Molton Brown bath amenities and the spacious rooms with skylight-lit shower and Jacuzzi tubs. The resort pool is adjacent to the Sea and Surf Terrace Bar, perfect for cocktails and snacks, while meals can be had at Oliver’s, with views of the beach and abundant local specialities such as fresh fish and seafood. Tennis, golf and water sports are offered, and when you’re muscles need a gentle touch, head to resort’s Janissa’s Spa for treatments based on the abundant offerings of locally grown spices, aloe vera and seaweed.

If you’re curious to explore the island, helpful staff can suggest beach and snorkelling spots or local restos to get a taste of Grenadian flavours.

Spice Island Beach Resort
www.spiceislandbeachresort.com

Lake escape – Quebec
Located near the small town of Magog in the Eastern Townships of Quebec, the Ripplecove Inn is a picturesque boite for enjoying the beauty of nature, no matter what the season. Filled with beautiful Quebec antiques, this elegant inn boasts a central library/gathering spot, the charming Nag’s Head Pub and elegant dining room as well as luxurious rooms with fireplaces and views across Lake Massawippi. Outdoor pursuits such as hiking, cycling, swimming, sailing and fishing throughout the private 12 acre peninsula property can easily be arranged or for those who prefer, take time to wander through the English gardens, indulge at the spa or while away the afternoon in the four season hot tub. Gourmands will be happy to indulge in three square meals a day, with menus boasting locally-sourced treats and a wine cellar to will make your palate sing.

The relaxing atmosphere and congenial staff will let you welcome Mother Nature back into your daily routine and temporarily erase the need to recheck your Blackberry for messages.

Auberge Ripplecove & Spa
www.ripplecove.com