Flight to Luxury Hangar Event 2013

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In just three short months the Flight to Luxury Hangar Event, the premiere luxury event of the year, will be all the buzz in Denver. The 4th Annual Event will donate all proceeds to Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver, an organization which provides a safe, enriching place for more than 12,000 youth to go to every day after school and during the summer.

FTL ýTVPV_F4D_NC-38The Signature Flight Support private jet hangar at Centennial Airport will house the red-carpet event  showcasing the most elite elements of spectacular travel: Cuvée Escapes custom-couture villas in the world’s most stunning destinations, first-class private jets by Jet Linx, and luxury sports cars by Ferrari of Denver and Sill-TerHar Motors. Also featured will be a couture fashion show from local Denver boutiques, delectable cuisine and drink from the Mile High City’s top eateries, and a silent and live auction. Cuvée is also pleased to reveal the Emcee for the evening will be Vic Lombardi of CBS4.

Over 1,000 attendees experienced the 2012 Flight to Luxury event and the 2013 event is expected to sell out completely.  The Hangar Party was created by Larry Mueller, the Managing Partner of Cuvée Ventures. “So many of us go to the typical charity events where you sit around a round table and we really wanted to do something that was the antithesis of that.”

Top food sponsors include FTL ýTVPV_F4D_NC-40

The 2012 event brought appearances from local celebrities such as John Elway, community leaders within Denver, and other elite guests including “Benry” from Survivor Nicaragua and former Colorado Avalanche player, Kyle Quincy.

This year’s attendees can expect some of the same unique entertainment that was supplied last year in addition to this year’s new acts. Cuvée is proud to announce that Brian Olsen Art in Action is planned to make a special appearance at the 2013 event.

While Flight to Luxury lends the certainty of a special evening, the event’s primary objective is uniting the Denver Community in support of a life-changing mission: To allow Denver’s youth the opportunity to succeed.

For more information about the Flight to Luxury Event, visit the website here. You can also find the event on Facebook here.


Upcoming Events in the City that Doesn’t Sleep

Experience the U.S. Open

August 26-September 9Tennis-Tournament-Us-Open-Logo-Inscription-Emblem

If you haven’t already added the U.S. Open in New York City to your bucket list, you should. Attracting international jet-setters and tennis enthusiasts alike, the celebrity-studded U.S. Open adds magical entertainment to the city that never sleeps.

Tickets may still be purchased, and you can view availability by clicking here. 

New York Fashion Week303103-nicole-miller-spring-2013-at-mercedes-benz-fashion-week-in-new-york-se

September 5-12

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week kicks off September 5 to showcase Spring 2014 collections from top designers. The show schedule will be released in mid-August. For more information, click here.


St. Barth Update

Cuvée is proud to announce that our St. Barth Villa Vue de Reves will remain open until through the 2013 holiday season!

St. Barth ViewOriginally we had planned to begin remodeling the villa in spring 2013 but decided to leave the villa open until 2014 in order to allow guests to enjoy the exciting holiday season in St. Barth. Villa Vue de Reves (meaning “Villa of Dreams”) was constructed over a period of three years and finished in 1996 but remains in excellent condition and is comfortably appointed. That begin said, we have big plans to “Cuvée” the home for our 2014 visitors. Before construction begins on the home, we are planning to refresh some of the furnishings including new beds and bedding this fall to greet our holiday visitors with a fresh look.

The home sits a top St-Jean with glorious views of Baie de St-Jean, Nikki Beach, and the St Barts 2 (3)famed Eden Rock. Fortunately, the remodel that we have planned will do nothing but accentuate these fantastic views and enviable location resulting in an island oasis with modern island flair. All amenities will be upgraded including kitchen appliances, A/V system, bathroom fixtures, furnishings, and technology systems to reflect the chic modern lifestyle of St. Barth. The outdoor living space, while already very large, will be expanded upon to include a sun deck, refurbished infinity pool, and full outdoor kitchen.

Currently, the villa has four bedrooms divided among three separate bungalows; a main bungalow which includes the master bedroom, living area, and kitchen, one that includes two guest master bedrooms, and another which will include two king-sized bedrooms and a media room after the remodel.

St Barts 1 (1)While already a spectacular home, Villa Vue de Reves will truly live up to its name and be a dream We look forwarding to welcoming you to the island of St. Barth very soon.


Escape to Your Own Private Island

Royal Island001Set on a 430-acre private island in the heart of the Bahamas, Royal Island is a boutique luxury resort. Royal Island offers the complete luxury experience in one nightly rate including accommodations, fine dining, transportation and a wide range of services and activities.

Melanie BeachOur $9,750/night Spring Special is still available for May and June getaways! Your party will receive the Complete Experience in addition to the following bonus amenities: Complimentary 1-hour massages, all food & beverages for your group, all water sports with the exception of Deep Sea Fishing and Scuba Diving Excursions, an Outer Island or Harbour Island adventure, and live music.

You can also take advantage of these bonus amenities during the 4th of July holiday with the available holiday package.

Looking to plan ahead for the 4th of July holiday? The Royal Island can be yours for the special rate of $10,950/night which includes a private fireworks display, exclusive use of Royal Island and all facilities and services for your group, complimentary 1-hour massages for all adults, all water sports with the exception of Deep Sea Fishing and Scuba Excursions, an Outer Island or Harbour Island adventure, and live music.

Don’t miss out on these amazing opportunities to call the Royal Island your own!

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*Specials valid for a 5-night stay for up to 6 adults. Please inquire about shorter stays and larger groups.


Top 10 Summer Activities in Kona

by Emily Jansen

Kona ZiplineISLAND ZIPLINE TOURS  Join us for a canopy experience like no other. Perched amongst the trees of Halawa, Kohala Zipline’s Kohala Canopy Adventure features elevated suspension bridges, soaring tree platforms and thrilling ziplines. From the moment you enter the aerial trekking course, you’ll be enthralled by the magic of Kohala. Exclusive features, such as twin WhisperLines and smooth stop braking, ensure your safety and comfort and deliver an experience like no other. Whether you are a real zipline enthusiast or a first time adventure seeker, the Kohala Canopy Adventure will be an unforgettable experience.

HORSEBACK RIDING Experience Open Range Horseback Riding in the unspoiled Kona Horsebacking Ridingupcountry of Hawaii at the Ponoholo Ranch on historic Kohala Mountain. This 11,000 acre working cattle ranch, stretching from the rain forest to the ocean, offers the most spectacular scenery on the Big Island. Awe-inspiring views of the Kona and Kohala coastline, Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, Hualalai Volcanoes on the Big Island and Haleakala Volcano on Maui. Various packages and rides available.

Kona VolcanoVOLCANO TOURS  Ignite your sense of adventure with Hawaii volcano tours, educational bird watching tours and an inspiring Mauna Kea tour. Hawaii Forest & Trail nature tours allow you to experience Big Island Hawaii’s majestic nature in a small group or guided tour setting. These Hawaii adventure tours showcase active volcanoes, soaring summits, tropical forests, and stunning waterfalls. Custom tours available to fit your family and preferences.

ATV TOURS With vistas from the mile-wide black sand beach to the 1200-foot splendor of Kona ATV Toursthe twin Hi‘ilawe Falls, Hawaii’s highest single-fall waterfalls, join us for an ATV tour to the top of Waipi‘o – a once in a lifetime, unforgettable experience. Ride your own ATV through breathtaking scenery and unimaginably grandiose panoramic views. We pass through eucalyptus and ginger forests on our three-plus hour journey through former sacred royal land where access is limited. Swim in the headwater of Hi‘ilawe, see the back side of the Parker Ranch lands, go to the top of Waipi‘o, or be one of the few to Ride the Rim!

Kona SnorkelingWATER SPORTS Big Island Watersports offers scuba, snorkeling, whale and dolphin watching, Scuba, and more. All these activities can be combined for groups on a private charter. They are extremely accommodating to families of all sizes and skill sets and are dedicated to creating a memorable experience for you and your family.

 

 

DOLPHIN QUEST Feel the thrill of a lifetime as you touch, swim with and even kiss a dolphin! Let loose, laugh and have loads of fun DolphinQuest Konaswimming with dolphins in our tropical paradise setting on the Big Island of Hawaii. Dolphin Quest opened in 1988, creating a place where people and dolphins could share the wonder of close personal interaction. Today, Dolphin Quest is an international organization devoted to public education and to the conservation of marine wildlife. Their innovative encounter programs promote a spirit of connection to the marvels of the oceans.

Kona Helicopter ToursHELICOPTER TOURS Fly to the volcano in luxury and climate controlled comfort on board a 6 passenger Bell Jet Ranger. Your adventure begins with check in and safety briefing in at the Hilo Airport general aviation / tour area in Terminal 2. Your flight departs the airport and offers views of Hilo Bay, tropical rainforests of Puna, and the world famous Mauna Loa Macademia Nut Farm en route to Kilauea. Once you reach the volcano you’ll see the areas of activity including any lava ocean entry points and Puu Oo, the volcanic vent that has been the focus of most current activity since 1983. On your return to Hilo you’ll see beautiful Rainbow Falls and other cascades of northern Hilo. Five out of 6 seats on this helicopter are window seats, and the one that is not has an excellent view out of both sides of the aircraft. Visit Blue Hawaii Helicopter Tours for more information.Kona Deep Seafishing

DEEP SEA FISHING  Kona Family Fishing Charters offers groups of all sizes a fantastic time on the water. From trophy marlin fishing to smaller, more “kid friendly” catches, the dedicated captains and crew of Kona Family Fishing Charters will ensure that you have a memorable, safe, and fun experience.

 

 

SUBMARINE  TOURS Atlantis Submarines offers the most technologically advanced passenger submarines in the world and the only true submarine operating in the Big Island waters. Treat yourself to Kona’s most beautiful and captivating scenery, habitats, and isolated treasures. You’ll descend 100 feet into another version of paradise — one hidden even from the people of Hawaii for centuries. Atlantis Kona offers a journey aboard Kona Submarinea 48-passenger submarine. Guests will discover an 18,000-year-old, 25-acre fringing coral reef, which boasts a vibrant ecosystem. With a spacious air-conditioned interior, large view-ports and comfortable seating, this submarine allows you access to Hawaii’s sea life. The knowledgeable and friendly crew will share their love of the ocean on this excursion and provide information ranging from fish identification to scientific data. Observing the magnificent aqua-blue ocean abundant with marine life of Hawaii from a submarine is a “must do” and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

MANTA RAY TOURS Visitors to the Kona Coast of the Big Island have an opportunity to participate in one of the most unique ocean adventures in the world. Manta rays frequent the warm waters of the rocky volcanic coastline in search of plankton, their primary food source. With their giant mouths constantly open, they glide through the Kona Manta Tourwater and filter these tiny creatures. There is one particular spot close to the Kona airport where mantas congregate in the early evening, and after dark they are attracted to lights that are placed on the bottom of the ocean in about 30 feet of water. These lights attract clouds of tiny plankton, and the plankton attracts the mantas. These giant rays gracefully glide, twirl, and do somersaults to swoop up the tiny little food particles, sometimes within a foot or so of the observers! You too can witness these spectacular ocean creatures in their magical underwater ballet in an event you’ll never forget! View manta rays in their natural habitat with spectacular tours provided by various companies.


Coming Soon: Italy

Cuvée is excited to unveil our latest upcoming destination: a historical farmhouse in the Chianti Classico region of Tuscany, Italy. This ancient farmhouse dates back to the 16th century and has been recently renovated to incorporate the luxuries and conveniences of Farmhousethe modern age. It sits on four acres, complete with its own mature olive grove and the potential to produce first rate olive oil that will be available for our guests to enjoy. Surrounded by rolling vineyards, the farmhouse is walking distance from the quaint Tuscan town of Gaiole and just down the street from the medieval castle of Vertine. The cultural mecca of Florence is 40 minutes away by car and a 20 minute drive will take you to the hilltop town of Siena.

As to be expected, wine is the center of all things in the Tuscany region. Chianti Classico is one of the premiere wine producing areas within Tuscany and Italy as a whole. We are pleased to be offering a residence within this esteemed area so that our guests can experience firsthand the delicacies and deliciousness of these wines. The town of Gaiole celebrates its rich wine heritage with summer festivals including the Districts Festival. This event returns in July this year with a weekend full of activities including street games, wine tasting, a local street fair, and music and dancing for all. Join locals for the annual Glass Under the Stars, a night filled with great wine, a beautiful starry sky, and astronomy lessons from the experts from the Italian Union of Amateur Astronomers.

The Cuvée Farmhouse Estate will be open to visitors in mid-June, as we are still outfitting the estate to bring it up to our 6 star luxury standards. Cuvée Guest Service Manager Rita Cuéllar will be traveling to the farmhouse to become acquainted with the location and intricacies of the Italian culture so that she will be prepared to plan a fantastic Italian Cuvée Experience for our guests.  Visitors can look forward to a quintessential Italian farmhouse surrounded by picturesque vineyards with all the appointments of modern living, and a lot of great wine!


Summertime in the Mountains

by Mike Yerigan

I think of summer in the mountains and get hit with flashes of sights, scents and sounds that almost bring me to tears of excitement.  Summer is an exceptionally magical time to be in our alpine destinations that everyone should experience in their lifetime.  WatchingRocky Mountain Summer the transition from spring to summer brings life, rebirth & a definitive air of joy.  The hills are alive in the sound of music, as mother nature wraps you in her arms of comfort –  is my best way to describe what happens here thru my eyes.  Mountains dance with the grass & flowers singing in sway, the river roars with a soothing constant, like a baby’s lullaby – and the air is crisp and pure as it was before time.  Your activities desire is our easy offering on a daily basis – hike, bike, fly fish, climb, sing, raft, spa, golf, tour the pedestrian villages, eat, shop, dance, drink wine at 11,000 feet in elevation, volunteer, disc golf, roll in the grass and giggle with the gods knowing that this much pleasure should be reserved for them.

The mountain destinations only enhance this sincerely seductive time with an abundance selko_slopestyle_2of events to compliment your visit.  Cultural events from the Vail International Dance Festival or Aspen Arts Festival, to musical assaults like the Aspen Jazz festival or Vail Hot Summer Nights Series, even sporting events like the Go-Pro Mountain Games guarantees there is truly something for everyone.  Part of me wants to share this experience with the world but another wants to hide this pocket of awesome to ensure everyone doesn’t move here.  I’ve been in Vail for 10 years now and refuse to leave my mountains during this joyous and blissful season.

 

I love the mountains and hope that you come visit.

Your mountain Ambassador,

Mike


The End of Whale Watching Season in Cabo San Lucas

by Rita Cuéllar

Los Cabos is a great place to be year-round. With every change of the seasons, come new and exciting opportunities to venture out to the Mexican coast. Now, that summer is quickly approaching, more and more people are packing their bags and setting off to Los Cabos. However, before we completely bid farewell to this season, it’s nice to reminisce about all the good things it has brought.

whale blogThe end of March marks the end of the whale season in the Mexican peninsula. From now forwards, whales will begin to migrate back North to the cooler waters in the north Pacific. However, for the frigid winter and spring months, the Pacific Ocean off the Baja Peninsula and the Sea of Cortez alike have homed a wide array of whales. Blue Whales, Sperm Whales, Bryde´s Whales, Sei Whales, Fin Whales, and occasionally Orcas have all been sighted in the winter and spring months vacationing in Los Cabos. Most commonly, Gray Whales and Humpback Whales frequent these waters to mate, give birth, and nurse their calves.  These warm waters are so highly coveted by the whales that they travel some six thousand miles just to be there!

When you too come to visit Los Cabos, during these months, it is very easy for you to submerge (quite literally) yourself into the beautiful scenery, since the whales stick to accessible, shallow, and protected lagoons and coves for rearing their young. While different geographical locations along the coast will house a specific species of whales, either Gray or Humpback, all along the way you can encounter a rich diversity of marine life, such as Pacific Bottlenose Dolphins, Spinner Dolphins, Spotted Dolphins and Sea Lions. All these can be seen in the local waters around Los Cabos throughout the year, making it a constant hot spot for tourists from around the world.


Planning the Perfect Vacation

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Planning a vacation that will be stress free and memorable can be a huge task, especially if you are not familiar with your destination or have never done this before.  Coming up with the perfect itinerary when your vacation is booked through Cuvée Escapes is effortless, and the only stress you may experience is deciding which recommendations you want to experience.

Each guest is assisted by their own dedicated, personal concierge and on-site host to help create an individualized Six-Star experience.  We have thorough knowledge of each destination, enabling us to arrange the best private chef, fishing charter, ski instructors and other unique activities, along with incredible dining experiences to create the perfect escape.  Taking into consideration your desires, group makeup and preferences, your concierge will provide many options to choose from so that everyone in your party will feel like the trip was planned just for them.  While some activities can easily be scheduled once you reach your location, planning ahead and making reservations prior to your arrival is preferable to ensure you can get the exact activities and reservations that you want. During your visit, your personal concierge is also available if you decide to change your itinerary, or if you have any questions so you never need to feel alone.

With Cuvée, planning the perfect vacation does not have to be an overwhelming project and should have you eagerly anticipating your great getaway!


Cuvée’s Response to “Travel Confidential”

ABC recently aired a Spring Break special, “Travel Confidential”, that tapped into the travel industry and revealed some of the deep dark secrets about the airline industry, travel companies, and travel destinations. Reliability of resort photos, quality of resorts, cleanliness of properties, and honesty of staff members were put to the test during the two hour special that aired this past Saturday. Here at Cuvée we were astonished with some of the findings of this documentary and take pride in our six-star service now more than ever.

The documentary questioned online bookings and whether travelers can really trust the pictures and descriptions of vacation rentals and properties. Rest assured, all of the pictures representing Cuvée’s properties are true depictions of the properties and amenities that come along with the Cuvée experience. Some of our clients have even said that the pictures do not do the property justice and that the properties are even more exceptional than what they imagined upon arrival. Cuvée properties are truly one of a kind and the services of the staff members on and off site of the properties aim to make every visit special and unique.

“Travel Confidential” got down and dirty with hotel cleanliness inspections. A past hotel manager followed the camera crew and provided insight into how the housekeeping staff cleaned or did not clean certain things. This included everything from using rags to clean the toilet and then the water glasses or housekeeping staff using the beds in the rooms before guests checked into their rooms. Our staff at Cuvée is highly trained and feels passionately about providing the highest level of service possible for our clients and guests. Six-star service is something that we take seriously and aim to uphold in all circumstances. We want every single guest to leave our properties saying, “That was the best vacation I have ever had.”

This documentary may be relevant for some travelers during this Spring Break season and we encourage you to look out for the red flags discussed throughout the 20/20 episode. However, we do want you to be confident in knowing that the Cuvée properties, along with the overall Cuvée experience, endeavor to provide you with the best travel experiences imaginable and that our business should not be of concern with dishonesty and lack of respect for our clients and guests because our business model is quite the opposite. The main objective of Cuvée Escapes is to create incomparable bespoke experiences for our guests and will continue to uphold the reputation that we have tried so hard to create for our brand.