Archive for the ‘Restaurants’ Category

Babymoon Bliss: Why Thailand is a Dream Destination for Expecting Couples

Tuesday, March 21st, 2023

If one thing’s for sure, becoming a parent is a wonderful, if not slightly exhausting experience! Broken sleep, attending to a newborn 24/7, and recovering from birth are just some of the challenges new parents face. Which is why a ‘babymoon’ provides an opportunity to wind down and enjoy a relaxing break before the tiny pitter patter of footsteps. Here’s four good reasons to jet off to your luxury villa rental in Southeast Asia.

  1. Local Culture

Keen to explore the sights of Thailand? Good news, there’s historical temples at every turn. The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya is a modern day masterpiece, with intricate details carved into the wooden temple, paying homage to the world around us. For something more ancient, Wat Mahathat in Sukhothai Historical Park is a recognized World Heritage Site, at the foot of a huge standing Buddha.

With over 2,500km of coastline, Thailand’s beaches are very much part of its culture too. Some of the best ones to visit include; Choeng Mon in Koh Samui  – a crescent shape alcove with turquoise waters, and the infamous Maya Bay in Koh Phi Phi which you might recognise from the film ‘The Beach’.

  1. For Rest and Relaxation

There’s nothing quite like a pregnancy massage to soothe swollen legs and aid any ailments. Most luxury villa rentals can organise a professional masseuse to visit for the full treatment. For total indulgence, look no further than Chiva-Som Spa at Hua Hin. This multi-award winning spa might just be the most famous in Thailand. It offers a menu of treatments, but the spine-tingling foot massage is one you don’t want to miss. Another popular option is the Wellness Center at Rosewood, Phuket. This oasis of calm even offers couples massages, side-by-side.

  1. Indulge in Mouth-watering Cuisine

Thailand is a foodie haven. From lip-smacking street food to gourmet cuisine – and all at affordable prices. Making it into the Top 50 Restaurants in the world, Sorn in bustling Bangkok makes it worth the visit. Flavours are punchy without being potent and dishes are impressively refined. For veggies, Anchan is a one-of-a-kind restaurant in Chiang Maai, offering delicious curries and a diverse vegetarian menu. If you find yourself in Phuket, Blue Elephant is a popular chain that fuses home-cooking with bold flavours. Still in Phuket, don’t miss the chance to eat like a Queen at Mom Tri’s Kitchen at Villa Royale. Here you can lap up fine-dining with waterside views for the ultimate in romance.

  1. Romance is in the Air

Speaking of romance, the Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok is a soothing oasis in this vibrant city. The juxtaposition of this five-star hotel set against the neon sky of the capital, make for a surprisingly romantic setting. With lavish flower displays and first-class hospitality, it’s the perfect couple’s get-away.

Take relaxation to the next level with outstanding facilities at the Four Seasons Hotel in Chiang Rai. Its exotic bamboo gardens and endless pools make for a romantic setting, especially with (virgin) sundowners at the Burma Bar. As if that wasn’t enough, there’s an opportunity to walk with the resort’s resident elephant!

While you still can, make the most of the tranquillity at The Shore at Katahani. This adults-only beachfront resort is a couple’s paradise with private pools and endless sea-views to melt into. Dine under the stars or enjoy a candlelit hot tub – this is one place where romance is definitely in the air.

Looking for holiday inspiration for your Babymoon? Check out Global Luxury Villas.

THE BEST SUSHI RESTAURNTS IN THE WORLD

Thursday, July 2nd, 2020

Sure, we all know that Japan is home to koi carp and the best sushi and sake in the world. But what about the rest of the globe?

For those that like their sushi with a side of five-star indulgence, and partial to some globe-trotting, we’ve pulled together the top Japanese restaurants around the world.

From the snow-topped mountains of Aspen, to Miami Beach villas, here’s four of the best to whet your appetite…

Sushi and Views in Mykonos
Sun, sea and great hospitality. What’s not to love about the Greek islands? Moor up to your Mykonos luxury vacation rental in your private yacht and enjoy the comforts that this magical island has to offer.

Don’t be mistaken by the small size of Mykonos, as it packs a hearty punch when it comes to dining out. Known the world-over as one of the premium sushi establishments, Nobu makes a welcome appearance. Here you can enjoy sushi rolls with views out to see. Just be sure to order the black cod – its legendary famous dish.

Nobu, The Belvedere, Agiou Ioannou, Mykonos, Greece

Feel the heat in Miami

The party city of Miami has it all, from luxury Miami villas to celebrity dining spots. Wherever you base yourself, you’re never too far from a world-class restaurant. Better still, why not hire a private chef to your villa rental Miami for the ultimate in decadence?

If you decide to venture out, Miami has a whole host of excellent sushi spots. One of the favourites is Zuma, offering contemporary Japanese cuisine.

This internationally renowned name in Japanese dining lives up to its reputation. Amongst delights it offers robata-grilled plates and epic sushi dishes, including; spicy tuna, freshwater eel and freshly rolled Maki rolls. It’s also a celebrity favourite, so keep your eyes peeled too.

Zuma, 270 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Miami

Saint-Tropez Swag

For the well-heeled clientele of Saint-Tropez, where only luxury limos and St Tropez villas will do, five-star cuisine is a prerequisite.

With its privileged coastal position, the French region is overflowing with great seafood restaurants. However, few are as committed to Asian-fusion as Kinugawa. The open air terrace delivers mouth-watering views out to see, best served with a side of sliced tuna on crispy tarts and a cheeky Tokyo mule! Popular in fashion circles and with local hipsters, Kinugawa serves up a feast fit for a king, or catwalk queen.

Kinugawa, Tour du Portalet, La Jetee, 83990, Saint-Tropez

Artful Aspen

It may be a surprise to know that as well as skiers, Aspen is a huge hit with foodies. With sushi served up looking like pieces of art, Marua is the place to go for all your luxury dining requests.

Here fresh sashimi is served alongside sushi rolls and chef specialty lobster dishes to delight. Don’t leave without trying the tuna tataki and avocado mousse, and game-changing salmon infused sake.

Marua, 320 South Mill Street, Aspen

Villazzo leads the way in luxury villa rentals around the world, to learn more, get in touch today.

DON’T MISS OUT ON MIAMI’S HOT NEW ATTRACTIONS

Thursday, December 19th, 2019

The beauty of beaching in Miami is that you never get bored.

Five-star dining? Check.

Haute couture? Check.

Celebrity-loved attractions? Check!

Miami has it all and then some. This year, numerous new attractions have opened up along Miami Beach. When you stay at one of our Miami villas, we recommend you add these new hot spots to your itinerary.

 

Time Out Market Miami

What’s better than a Miami-exclusive fine-dining establishment? How about 17 superior culinary retreats under one roof? That’s right! Time Out Market is a classy dining arena where even the pickiest of eaters will find satisfaction. The local shops carefully combine local Miami tastes with unique exotic flavors. Bask in the delights of hand-crafted sushi and fresh seafood, or satiate in savory Italian and French cuisine. If you’re residing in the modern Villa Kayla, Time Out Miami is the local eatery of choice for many vacationers.

Candytopia

Willy Wonka who? The candy queen Jackie Sorkin has created the most glorious confectionary wonderland in the sweet lands of Candytopia! Located in the great Aventura Mall, Candytopia celebrates our favorite sugary flavors. You don’t just get a taste of the sweet life, you get to indulge in it like never before. Swim in the marshmallow bathtub or pose with the candy unicorn. However you curb your sweet tooth cravings, make sure you snap it for Instagram.

The Citadel Rooftop Bar

There’s no rooftop bar like the Citadel Rooftop Bar. With a 5,000 square feet open floor plan, an enticing menu, and breathtaking Miami skyline views, it’s no wonder anyone who’s anyone is flocking to visit. The Citadel Rooftop Bar has a grand assortment of weekly events available for clients to enjoy. Choose from live music and entertainment to health and wellness sessions. The Citadel Rooftop Bar is the perfect place to party after lounging at the peaceful Villa Melissa all day.

Museum of Illusions

Experience art like never before. Miami’s Museum of Illusions offers an incredible twist on modern art creations. Artists from all over the world gathered to create mind-blowing optical illusions, drawing inspiration from local art, pop culture, and much more. This world-famous attraction will make its grand debut on December 20th at the iconic Lincoln Road location. Don’t let your Instagram followers down. Visit the Museum of Illusions for something both new and unique.

Oldies but Goodies 

Here at Villazzo, we like to celebrate the old, as well as the new. If you’re visiting the Magic City this season, don’t leave without checking out the hottest Miami attractions.

Our impressive collection of Miami villas are attractions nobody should miss the pleasure of enjoying. Contact a Villazzo representative today to find out more about booking and showings!

MIAMI’S ENTICING NEW DINING ESTABLISHMENTS

Thursday, December 19th, 2019

Miami is well-known as the center of fine dining establishments run by world-renowned chefs.  Wherever you go, you can have your pick of five-star mellow restaurants or Michelin-star, high-class dining. The rich combination of diverse eateries makes Miami the perfect go-to for food lovers and is one of the biggest selling points of our Miami villas.


Gregory’s Diner

Gregory’s Diner is the perfect balance between high-class cuisine and an all-American bistro. Accomplished restaurant owners Anastasia Koutsioukis and Ahmet Erkaya are seeking to extend their success in the dining industry with a homey, yet indulging, all-day American eatery. Executive chef Roel Alcudia’s delectable menu features bona fide continental American cuisine and enticing drinks. Located in the famous Vagabond Hotel, this place is ideal for anyone who loves the vibe of classic diners.


Papi Steak

Papi Steak is all about revamping tradition to your everyday steakhouse, with a contemporary twist. From the upscale dining area to the savory dinner and dessert menus, this refined establishment provides clients the A-list experience, and then some! As soon as you walk in, you’ll be enthralled with the elegant yet edgy design, courtesy of David Grutman, while the astonishing menu of David “Papi” Einhorn will leave you wanting more and more. If you’re relaxing at one of our luxurious Miami villas, head out to Papi Steak right now, located in South of Fifth, Miami Beach.


Le Jardinier

Bringing exquisite French cuisine to the heart of Buena Vista, Miami, Le Jardinier features a modern, futuristic design, with clean lines and an open-space venue, just like our Villa Melissa. Complementing the minimalist layout is the eclectic culinary experience. Every menu item at Le Jardinier is plant-based and seasoned to perfection. Even better, all ingredients used for food production are fresh and sustainably sourced. Elevate your palate with a delectable lunch, dinner, or happy hour special at Le Jardinier.


L’Atelier

You can list this one under haute cuisine. L’Atelier is one of the most refined restaurants available, not just in the flourishing Design District of Miami, where accomplished restaurants compete to be the best of the best, but all over the world. The amazing Joël Robuchon has an impressive 73 Michelin stars associated with his name. That means you can expect L’Atelier to radiate perfection like you’ve never experienced it before. His impressive menu draws inspiration from traditional French cuisine with extraordinary twists exclusive to the Robuchon name. To miss out on this culinary excellency would be a tragedy.

Ready to experience five-star dining? Then you’ll need a five-star vacation home nearby! Villazzo offers luxurious rental villas with unmatched amenities and gorgeous views. Take a look at the available Miami villas below.

Contact a licensed Villazzo realtor to book your vacation home today! 

SAINT-TROPEZ FOR FOODIES

Wednesday, August 22nd, 2018

The French are known for their love of food and drink with good reason. The French Riviera presents the perfect climate and environment for growing fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as home to a number of wineries and vineyards. It also benefits from its coastal location, with fresh seafood in abundance.

With such a rich combination of local produce, and its jet-set visitors, it’s easy to see why Saint-Tropez is one of top destinations for foodies.

If you’re planning a visit, here’s some foodie-favourites to sample:

Michelin

Michelin Star Dining

With a staggering 66 Michelin starred restaurants in Saint-Tropez, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to five-star dining. From L’Olivier to Le Belrose, and La Table du Mas to La Pomme de Pin, you could choose a new restaurant every night!

However, boasting three-stars, La Vague d’Or celebrates luxury dining at its best, at the Residence de la Pinede. Head Chef Arnaud Donckele is a true alchemist of flavour, using locally sourced produce including great seafood ensembles. For a memorable experience, try the ‘Au Fil Du Temps’ five-dish menu, combining classic favourites with wine pairings. Its outdoor terrace completes the dining experience.

Spectacular Seafood

Spectacular Seafood

Saint-Tropez is a fish-lovers haven, and with so much great seafood on offer, you don’t always have to dine five-star. La Bouillabaisse Plage is the perfect spot to enjoy great food against the sound of crashing waves, with a fillet of sea bream starting from €28. You can enjoy equally great dishes at low key finds like El Mas bar, or the more upscale La Plage des Jumeaux restaurant.

Farmers Market

Farmers Market

The open-air market of Place des Lices is a fantastic spot to scoop up locally sourced fruit and veg, to enjoy back at your luxury villa rental. Open from Tuesday to Saturday (8am-1pm), you can buy olives by the bucket load, delicious home-made bread, tomatoes in every colour, and freshly made tartes and sweets to make the heart sing!

Villa Jessica

Channel your inner Gordon Ramsay!

There’s nothing quite like home-cooking, and with so much fresh local produce to enjoy, all you need is your own kitchen to conjure up a three-course meal. Luxury vacation homes such as Villa Jessica, are made with get-together’s in mind, offering a modern fully equipped kitchen and dining area, as well as outdoor terrace for dining under the stars!

Wineries

If you’re partial to a glass of rosé, this is the region that produces some of the finest bottles. Take a visit to the family owned estate at Chateau Minuty, which conjures up romantic images of sunny afternoons, glass in one hand. Why not buy a few extra to enjoy back at your villa rental.

Villazzo provides luxury vacation homes in Saint-Tropez and some of the most desirable destinations in the world. Coupled with outstanding service, it provides all the trappings of a five-star hotel, in the privacy of your own villa.

Saint-Tropez, Summer’s Coolest Hotspot!

Thursday, May 31st, 2018
saint-tropez luxury villa

Film stars and royalty, families and friends – Saint-Tropez is an all-inviting destination that must be visited once, and is sure to lure you back time and again.

Put on the map thanks to Brigitte Bardot in ‘And God Created Woman’, visitors trickle in from mid-May onwards. This signals the start of summer for the French coastal town, when temperatures reach 22°, rising throughout July and August.

If you’re thinking of planning a chic get-away with sun, sea, shopping and seafood high on your list, then book early to secure a luxury villa to rent in Saint-Tropez.

Villa Victoria

Chic Sleeps

Effortlessly fashionable, the French Riviera has long attracted the jet-set community who enjoy the exclusivity of a Saint-Tropez luxury villa. And it’s easy to see why. With plenty of hilltops bathed in trees and greenery, it’s the perfect setting for luxury and privacy.

Saint-Tropez villas offer great variety too. Whether you’re looking for the perfect beachfront villa to soak up the sun, a stylish hilltop retreat for sweeping views, or a charming home-from-home for all the family – there’s something for everyone.

Nikki Beach

May and June

When Saint Tropez welcomes tourists in May, many come for its glorious but not too-hot temperature. This is also a great time to visit before the bustling crowds embark.

Ideal for a day trip, you may time your visit with the International Cannes Film Festival (18-19 May). Neighboring Cannes is only an hour and half by car, with great bars and VIP parties to enjoy. You’ll be glad of your luxury vacation rental in Saint-Tropez to retreat back to!

There’s plenty of cultural attractions too, from the Exhibition at the Annonciade museum (free entry), to the Spring Music Festival (April – August) in the renaissance cinema.

Pampelonne beach provides the perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming. Be sure to swing by Club 55 or Nikki Beach and do as the locals with an ‘Aperol Spritz’!

Le Voiles

You won’t want to miss the ceremony of some grand regatta events, the first of which is Les Voiles Latines Regatta (24-27 May), followed by the prestigious Giraglia Rolex Club (8-16 June). This is a haven for yacht men and women, especially in the Ponche quarter and Old Port.

 

Women Shopping

Luxury Living

The French are known for their great food and drink, and this is particularly celebrated in the Côte d’Azur, eating like a king wherever you dine!

Michelin star L’Olivier offers stunning food in its charming garden. Likewise, La Vague D’or has made quite a name for itself serving up culinary seafood masterpieces. Luxury doesn’t have to be five-star though, as Le Kikouiou demonstrates with al fresco dining and hearty pizzas. Alternatively, the Place des Lices is a fantastic market where you can scoop up local produce to enjoy back at your luxury rental villa.

On the note of shopping, the triangle between the Place de Lices, Rue Allard and Rue Gambetta is the place to go for designer shops. Here you can find everything from Louis Vuitton to Chanel. You are in Saint-Tropez after all!

Looking for a luxury vacation home in St Tropez? Look no further, Villazzo curates the finest villas around the globe, coupled with outstanding service for the ultimate luxurious get-away.