Sensational Travel Escapes

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S p e c i a l q u a r t e r l y t r a v e l a d v e r t i S i n g S u p p l e m e n t t O t h e n e w y O r k O b S e r v e r • w i n t e r 2 0 1 1

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Special FocuS on Top caribbean DeSTinaTionS, accommoDaTionS & HoliDay DealS.

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SenSaTional Travel escapes

Photo provided courtesy of Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort

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Imagine a private island with a spectacular two-mile, white sand beachand the only footprints are yours. Such a place really exists.

�e Meridian Club on Pine CayJust 13 beachfront rooms and several private rental homes.No cars, no crowds, no hassles.

For reservations call:(649) 941-7011 or toll free (866) 746-3229

or e-mail:[email protected]

For further information:www.meridianclub.com

Elegant cuisine and as muchor as little as you want to do.

Day visits and lunch byspecial arrangement.

Imagine a private island with a spectacular two-mile, white sand beachand the only footprints are yours. Such a place really exists.

�e Meridian Club on Pine CayJust 13 beachfront rooms and several private rental homes.No cars, no crowds, no hassles.

For reservations call:(649) 941-7011 or toll free (866) 746-3229

or e-mail:[email protected]

For further information:www.meridianclub.com

Elegant cuisine and as muchor as little as you want to do.

Day visits and lunch byspecial arrangement.






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On AnguILLA’s FInest BeAChWith the crystal blue waters and pure white

sand, Shoal Bay Villas sits on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.

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The Caribbean’s only plantation inn on the beach.

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By Steve Duffy

The vision of a Marriott Hotel can be the picture of sweet relief to many a road weary traveller ready to lay down their fatigued bones. And

while most New yorkers are familiar with the outsider’s conception of city dwellers as ruth-less work-a-holics, there’s no arguing that they know how to kick-back best.

the San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino—one of four Marriott resorts in San Juan and one of six hotels on the island—is one such favorite relaxation facility for those ready to trade the concrete jungle for sand between your toes.

A two-year renovation was completed in 2009, engineered to make the most of its picturesque location. for the all-important beachside views, there aren’t many locations on the island that can match it. the lobby underwent it’s own $2.2 million refurbish-

ment in September 2011, making it ultra modern—deep wood finishes with metal and glass accents abound.

the updates proliferate with every one of the 511 rooms boasting free wireless Internet access and 24-hour room service. visitors also have access to treasured spa treatments and a fully functioning gym. Marketed as the ultimate luxury family hotel, the resort offers child-related activities as well. there’s no doubt, however, that the Marriott’s primary concern is pleasing the adults first.

travis McIntyre worked in San Juan at the Arecibo Observatory for two years, and was a frequent visitor to the hotel. “What I liked the most is the pool, it’s beautiful,” he gushed. Indeed, when it isn’t completely crowded, the pool is large enough for the serious swimmer to do laps, and for the not so serious swim-mer to sip a cocktail by the swim-up bar.

even so, this temperature-managed sanc-tuary isn’t the only way to let your hair down.

Puerto Rico Shows Off Its Riches

Vacationing in San Juan Never Looked So Good

By eMeRAlD PellOt

imagine a world without Blackberrys, twitter, and facebook. Picture a place without television, radio, and cars. Don’t panic—just relax. this is a vacation to the turks & Caicos Islands.

Pine Cay is a privately owned, 825-acre island (about the size of Central Park) in the Caribbean. And on this paradise is the Meridian Club—a vacation resort that feels more like a bed and breakfast than Spring Break.

“When people are coming back here, when they return, it’s more like they are coming home. It’s not like they are going to a hotel,” said Beverly Plachta, one of the Meridian’s man-agers.

Ms. Plachta runs the Meridian along with her husband of fifteen years, Wally Plachta. the two make their guests, those returning as well as those visiting for the first time, feel right at home.

“With the beach just a single step from each room and a bed so comfy you could lose your-self in it, it’s barefoot living at its finest. … Where the tv would be, there’s an old-fashioned map of Providenciales instead—I find it far more intriguing,” wrote guest Gemma Handy in a love letter to the getaway.

Meridian’s ban on all sorts of communicative technology may have New yorkers frantic with thoughts of abandoned responsibilities, but Beverly and her husband welcome the apprehen-sion. It is with small, personal touches that they hope to remind guests that they’re here to vacation.

“When you come, everyone is friendly, everyone remembers your name. We do hugs here instead of the handshake. We remember people’s birthdays and anniversaries. We take pride in knowing our guests,” said Ms. Plachta.

A Back to Basics Vacation

The Meridian Club Is Your Worry-Free Caribbean Getaway

CONtINueD ON PAGe 12CONtINueD ON PAGe 6






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“the location is probably the best in San Juan. It’s in the high-end Condado area and on the nicest of beaches there,” Mr. McIntyre said. “It’s very clean and safe, the hotel actually pro-vide 24 hour security—not that it’s particularly dangerous.”

As the name would suggest, the hotel also has a large on-site casino, and at 12,700 square feet, it’s the largest in Puerto Rico. In addition to poker, the casino offers a variety of table games, which is a rarity on the rest of the island and a perk for serious players who stay there.

even with the pool and casino amenities, the real treasures of this resort are found on the beaches and in the natural scenery that surrounds.

the el yunque rainforest is an hour’s drive away and is an absolute must see. there are also the el Morro and San Cristobal fortifica-tions, and the Barcardi distillery, which are all nearby and very popular attractions on the tourist trail.

Other adventures include horseback riding,

fitness trails, kayaking, sailing, scuba div-ing and snorkeling, all located within a short drive’s distance. that is, of course, if you can manage to find an excuse for leaving the com-fort of your poolside beach chair.

Regardless, this full-scale vacation spot promises rejuvenation and revival for families, couples, or the solo businessman desperately seeking to get out of the city and into the sun.

The Caribbean’s most historic resort shines with timeless grace. 138 spacious, elegant rooms are spread over 340 acres: in the signature pink Great House, on two of three beaches, on ridges overlooking the sea, gently-rolling golf greens and acclaimed tennis center. Three restaurants, renovated spa and fitness center, designer boutique. Recognized by the National Trust as a Historic Hotel of America.

Reservations 800-255-3881Website www.thebuccaneer.comEmail [email protected]

The Buccaneer

less grace. 138 spacious, elegant rooms are spread over 340 acres: in the signature pink Great House, on two of

rolling golf greens and acclaimed tennis center. Three restaurants, renovated spa and fitness center, designer boutique. Recognized by the National Trust as a Historic Hotel of America.

reservations 800-255-3881 website www.thebuccaneer.com email [email protected]

ST. CROIX

three beaches, on ridges overlooking the sea, gently-

The Caribbean’s most historic resort shines with time-

Puerto Rico Shows Off Its Riches

CONtINueD fROM PAGe 4

Affordable Luxury,Comfort and Beauty…The West Bay Club is one of the newest luxury resorts on the tranquil

shores of famous Grace Bay. This gracious resort is intimate, with forty-

six luxuriously appointed suites. Each of the suites has breathtaking

views of the widest and most beautiful beach on the island. Spacious

balconies provide a refuge for those who simply want to gaze at the

beautiful water. The resort features a fitness center, infinity pool and spa.

Complimentary use of kayaks, snorkel gear, and a hobie cat is included.

Guests can enjoy their favorite foods, wine and drinks in fully equipped

and spacious kitchens.

The Atlantic Bar & Grill is unique with its open-air kitchen and outdoors

setting in a lushly landscaped garden.

What makes The West Bay Club really unique is the management and

staff. The service is impeccable and very personal… the club concept.

Studio apartments to four-bedroom suites are available.

Visit TheWestBayClub.com for special promotional offers

For information and/or Reservations, call toll free 1-866-607-4156 [email protected] | www.TheWestBayClub.com

WBC-11-123 NY OBSERVER CONSUMER 9.875x10 final.indd 1 10/23/11 10:42 AM



the new york observer | observer.com NOVEMBER 2 1 , 20 1 1 T - 11


To adverTise: 212-407-9398To adverTise: 212-407-9393

Feel the magic of Christmas and awaken your senses with the sweet smell of roasting marshmallows, warmth of the fire,

and spectacular display of lights adorning our grounds.

Enjoy live animal displays, horse drawn carriage and train rides, story telling, and much more!

Call or visit our wEbsitE For dEtails.

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It offers deep water access to the Gulf. Perfect for the executive that wants to work from home. The awesome summer kitchen is ideal for entertaining and large family gatherings. The pool leads out to beautifully landscaped yard overlooking the dock with boat lift. Inside the enormous kitchen w/ granite counters is ideal for the gourmet cook. Cozy up in front of the fireplace after a long day fishing. For the car lovers there is a lift in the ga-rage and extra room for tinkering. • $795,750 • 30 Captains Cove Road Inglis, FL 34449 • http://www.mlscitrus.com/cit/maildoc/lewiex1_1320961534-Nov-10-2011-4_45_34pm.html

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By HANNAH GHORASHI

With breathtaking land-scapes and cozy accom-modations, outdoors adventures and luscious

indoor indulgences, the Inn at Pocono Manor has taken your pleasures to heart.

Originating during an industrial period, the historic haven first opened its doors as a country retreat for Phila-delphia Quakers in 1902. More than a hundred years later, the Inn is the oldest continuously operating resort spot in the expansive Pocono Mountains, and one of the first of its kind in all of North America. this 3,000-acre sanctuary is within two hours of New york City, New Jersey and Philadelphia, comfort-ably accommodating up to 700 guests any time of the year.

though the Inn was never a private home, the architectural landscape draws on centuries-old sprawling european manors. Over the years, this long-lasting charm has lured families to the area, where many have purchased land near the resort to build weekend and sum-mer homes. Permanent residence is also available in a resort community known

as the Cottages, which boasts three different two-story designs: the Aspen, the laurel and the Poplar. All have won numerous awards for excellence and of-fer planning and construction expertise, quality cratfsmanship and comprehen-sive customer services.

In this quaint, natural setting, it’s difficult to imagine the Inn has ever launched a concentrated effort on brand image. Instead, its cozy style has evolved naturally while pleasing the customer with every kind of enjoyment imagin-able. Indeed, though the Inn has long been an all-season, full-service resort with 237 spacious and continually-updat-ed guest rooms, it hasn’t lost an ounce of

its original charm. It’s truly the little

comforts that make a resort a vacation, but in today’s world, one still needs modern stimula-tion. Guests are provided with hi-speed wireless access, complimentary newspapers and coffee service in the main lobby.

luckily, you can feel better about such mad cravings with an easily accessible concierge service and innumerable sea-sonal activities.

the resort’s 3,000 acres include walk-ing paths, bicycling, indoor and outdoor

Relaxation for The Restless

Activities Abound at The Inn at Pocono Manor

CONtINueD ON PAGe 16



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folks from around the world quickly learn to unplug and unwind in the Carib-bean Spirit. Mothers and fathers seeking some quiet time alone might appreciate that the Club doesn’t offer accommoda-tions to children under twelve, except during family months in June and July and over the winter holiday season.

“you can either come here and be com-pletely alone or socialize. Some people like it so they come and they don’t have to see anybody. Or people who don’t even know each other become best friends just be-cause they dine together,” said Ms. Plachta.

“there’s no seating charts. People are encouraged to mingle and chat and share their experiences and most people who come here are likeminded so it’s easy for them to get together and have a good time.”

the Club also offers a range of activities from snorkeling and scuba diving to sail-ing and bone fishing. If these adventures don’t make you feel at one with the great outdoors, the fact that Pine Cay is self-suffi-cient and eco-friendly certainly will.

“living in harmony with Mother Nature is a pervasive theme, from the real flowers in the folds of the towels to the tacit ban on

plastic—a reusable shopping bag is left in each room along with a refill-able water bottle,” wrote Ms. Handy. “Rainwater catchment systems are integrated in all buildings. there’s even an outdoor shower. Just watch the prickly pine cones underfoot.”

the Meridian rests upon fresh water land. Drilling just 24 inches into the ground, the resort can access clean water without having to use the river. Cool island breezes mean there is no need for an AC. the only forms of transportation are bicycles and electric golf carts. the roads are paved with sand not cement, preserv-ing Pine Cay’s habitat of iguanas and exotic birds.

“We are mostly undeveloped. We don’t have anything here. Some people wonder why we don’t overde-velop it. It’s because we don’t want to,” Ms. Plachta explained. “Since we started 38 years ago, guests who came then and come back now are glad that there’s not that much of a change. We’ve pretty much kept everything the same.” But don’t expect a bunch of shabby sheds on a beachfront. Ms. Plachta assures us, the Meridian Club is old style, not old.

Contrary to the hyperactive minds of sci-fi heroes and villains, time travel doesn’t require a complicated gadget or the disapproval of einstein’s theory of relativity. Sometimes, a simple plane ticket will suffice. the Meridian Club in the turks & Caicos Islands is your getaway from it all.

“Remember a time when the Caribbean meant an understated old world charm?” Ms. Handy mused. “When traffic jams were as rare as a post office on the moon and com-rades still addressed each other with formal titles? A time before amiable service was replaced by its obsequious counterpart. And before high rises shot up like meerkats in the desert and confined the horizon to a distant memory. When the world moved on and got itself in one big rush, it left Pine Cay behind.”


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Frost Valley YMCA Experience some of the best cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and tubing new york State has to offer! Set on 6,000 acres deep in the catskill mountains, Frost valley ymca offers great skiing for all ages and abilities. whether it’s the miles of beautiful back-country trails, or skiing beside pristine streams, there’s something for everyone!

we offer over 25 kilometers of groomed trails for all abilities. Only 2.5 hours from new york city, we offer cabins with fireplaces, hotel-style rooms and multi-family lodges for weekend rental. give us a call at (845) 985-2291 or visit our web site: frostvalley.org

pools, waterfalls, horseback rid-ing, a BB range, archery, 5 stand, fishing, golf cart tours and other campy activities. Winter takes on a whole new attitude here with dogsledding, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Downhill skiing and snowboarding are available at the nearby Camelback Mountain, as are the more low-key horse-drawn sleigh rides. you can also take a roll in the hay in a hayride, snowmobile like a pro, dog sled with the huskies and indulge in a little do-good fun with shuffle-board.

But for golf enthusiasts, Pocono Manor’s two 18-hole courses have been challenging many of the sport’s—and business’s—experts for decades. the east Course, which opened in 1912, was rede-signed by Donald Ross in 1927 and offers complex water haz-ards and gorgeous, thoreauvian scenery. the West Course opened in 1965 and favors a long ball hitter who enjoys a wide fairway. Golf services include a pro shop,

lessons, driving range, restaurant and bar.

If you care to relax after a grueling day on the golf course—or any of the other athletic grounds—the area’s premier lau-rel Spa offers 20 treatment rooms for facials, nail treatments, mas-sages, wraps, tanning and more.

the Inn also provides 25,000 square feet of flexible meeting and special event space, ideal for corporate meetings, weddings and special occasions.

With all that the property has to offer, the Inn attracts a pleth-ora of customers, ranging from families and couples on weekends and holidays to corporate and so-cial groups during the week. Wed-ding parties and golf groups are also popular also reside when in season. Many guests come from New york, and an estimated half or more guests come from east of the Delaware River—either from New Jersey or New york State.

last but not least, the Inn offers those with active imagi-

nations another reason to stay a while. Rumors of a romance between a lenni lenape princess and a Dutch explorer abound. this tragic love story takes on Shakespearian magnitude with a twisted ending of a forced separa-tion, an attempted suicide and a desperate attempt to save the sui-cidal, concluding in both parties falling to their death. legend has it that misty evenings procure the spirits of the star-crossed lovers on the cliff where they died. Not too scary for children, but just enough to ponder the meaning of life, love and vacation.

Winter GetawaysFrost Valley yMCa

in the Catskill High Peaks, Claryville, nYJust 2½ hours from metro nY/nJ area

Let us be your premier Catskill Mountain winter getaway destination! Frost Valley YMCA is open to the public every weekend from September-June. Join us for Snowshoeing, Cross Country Skiing, Winter Hikes, Snow Tubing, Winter Crafts and more this season. Contact us to book your stay. See our online calendar for events: frostvalley.org/calendar/

eMail: [email protected] tel: 845-985-2291 web: frostvalley.org


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