Friday, February 20, 2009

Most Fascinating Places on Earth - Vol 2

Jet Luxury Resorts Weekly Installment Volume Two.

The Lost City of Uyuni, Bolivia

Over 3,000 feet above sea level sits an abandoned city that once dreamt of becoming a major railroad hub and terminal station—only to now whiter and rust away as construction on the project stopped in the late 19th century.

Now, all that remains are these rotting metal carcasses – dinosaurs of a fading Industrial age. There are literally hundreds of them spread about one of the flattest plains in the world, making for nothing less than the eeriest of noises as an unchained wind shrieks through them.

Today the town's primary function is as a gateway for tourists visiting the world's largest salt flats - the Salar de Uyuni. There is little agriculture in the area, because water supplies are scarce and somewhat saline.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Elton’s Red Piano Going Black

What better fit than Elton John and Las Vegas? So good, in fact, that a tryst that was supposed to last only 75 performances has been stretched into solid union of 241 shows. And if you have yet to experience Elton John’s Red Piano show at Caesars, time is running out.

"Caesars Palace has been honored for the past five years to host one of the world's most beloved performers, Elton John," resort president Gary Selesner said.

"Caesars Palace has a long history of memorable entertainment, and Elton John is an icon in the music industry, with international stature as not only a performer but also a gifted songwriter. We are grateful to Elton and his talented band for bringing so many memorable performances to Caesars Palace."

Indeed, Elton’s history, hits and flair all seemed a perfect fit for the salacious City of Neon, but alas, all good things must come to an end.

Remaining performances are selling out fast. Click here to reserve yours for the final run of the show, due to go dark on April 22nd.

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Most Fascinating Places on Earth- Vol 1

Jet Luxury Resorts Weekly Installment Volume One.

Socotra Island
One of the most bizarre looking places on Earth, Socotra Island is truly a sight to behold. Situated in the Indian Ocean (just off the coasts of Somalia and Yemen) this is truly a land from another time. Home to more than 800 species of plants, it’s the Galapagos of the Middle East and also happens to be the largest island found in the region.

Despite having over 40,000 inhabitants, the Yemeni Government just put in the first road only 2 years ago. And don't look for any high end resorts as the island is geared very much towards eco tourism. But make the trip and you will experience incredible plants that are over 20 million years old, a walled city, plenty of whales and dolphins, some of the rarest birds in the world and of course, picturesque, sandy, (and desolate) beaches. Leave planet Earth without ever leaving, well, planet Earth.

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Top 10 Things to Do in Costa Rica:

Although it’s a relatively short plane ride, Costa Rica is a world of wonder away. Known for its crystal clear sea, pristine beaches, killer coffee and amazing nightlife, Costa Rica also boasts some of the most jaw dropping natural wonders in the world.

Here’s a top ten list of the best of the best; places truly worth exploring.

1. Papagayo
A newly expanding area on the north coast of Costa Rica, Papagayo is a nature lover’s paradise, where lush rainforest literally crashes into the crystal blue sea. Beyond a few all-inclusive resorts, this area is pure, untamed wilderness.

2. Monteverde Cloud Forest
Hard to get to, but hey, it’s a cloud forest! Shouldn’t cloud forests be difficult to navigate?

3. Arenal Volcano
Costa Rica’s most active volcano- A fascinating site to behold and, as added bonus, the area about it hosts hundreds of delightful, natural hot springs.

4. Tamarindo Beach
A funky, but bustling surfer beach and town. Far from touristy and worth every second of acclimating culture.

5. Montezuma
Like Tamarindo, this is far from the touristy, crowded beaches; in fact, hit this one up for some much needed ‘me time.’

6. Canopy Tours
Take advantage of the lush rainforests by zip lining across the top of them. This is really a once in a lifetime opportunity for enthusiasts, it’s Tarzan times ten.

7. Whitewater Rafting
As you might expect in a country that rises from sea level to 12,000 feet and then back again, you’re going to get a lot of whitewater rapids to descend. There’s trips for every level, including class 6.

8. Rain Forest Aerial Tram
Just an hour from San Jose, this is a must see for all ages. A gentle tram that skims the top of the ever-aspiring forest.

9. Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio has plenty of pristine white beaches but it also has a forest filled with a variety of monkeys and is stocked flush with wildlife. It’s located on the top of a hill in the Pacific Ocean near Quepos. If you like monkeys, you’ll like Manuel Antonio.

10. Zoo Avenue
On one side of the walk are injured animals that have been taken in, on the other side is a bird lover’s paradise. Costa Rica is known for its colorful variety of birds and one gets to view them all here. See colorful macaws, toucans and hungry raptors.