Published in Magazine Enfoque on May 11, 2022, in Chile

Balloon flights, suites with private pool and views of paradise, personalised picnics, sunset sailing and wellness treatments are some of the proposals we present to create an unforgettable trip for couples.

Cappadocia, Turkey

Argos in Cappadocia is one of the most important transformation projects in Cappadocia, a boutique hotel that exceeds the expectations of the most sophisticated international travellers.
Argos in Cappadocia is one of Cappadocia’s most important transformation projects, a boutique hotel that exceeds the expectations of the most sophisticated international travellers.
Considered by many guests to be one of the most romantic experiences in the world, it features 51 suites that combine modernity and luxury, including fireplaces and private pools set in carefully restored historic tunnels and caves. The property, which used to be a former mansion and monastery, has gardens and terraces from which you can enjoy panoramic views of the Uçhisar Fortress, the Valley of Doves and the majestic Mount Erciyes. Because of the great historical and natural wealth that surrounds it and because of all the comforts and personalised services available, Argos in Cappadocia is a unique proposition for a trip for two. In addition to the famous balloon flight, which is a must for those who visit Cappadocia and a romantic postcard in itself, the Argos team has the possibility to create a series of tailor-made experiences for guests such as a special breakfast for the couple, picnics with typical products, wine tastings from the hotel’s cellar, moonlit walks, among others. Staying at Argos in Cappadocia is an experience in which enjoyment and relaxation combine
where enjoyment and relaxation are perfectly combined with a magical natural setting surrounded by history, luxury and comfort.

More information: https://www.argosincappadocia.com/home-page / aic@argosincappadocia.com

Toiny Bay, St Barths

With a majestic view of the Caribbean Sea, on the hillside above Anse de Toiny lies the Hotel Le Toiny. Twenty-two exclusive and independent villas and suites set in an oasis of calm and nature. Each suite offers a private swimming pool, a large terrace and views over the beautiful bay of Toiny. The essence of the hotel is calm and privacy, which is why all the suites have more than 92 m2 of private space including a terrace, large heated swimming pools and magnificent sea views making it the perfect setting for romantic getaways, honeymoons and anniversaries. Its restaurant, Le Toiny, offers a modern gastronomic menu, a simple and refined European-inspired cuisine prepared by its team of talented chefs. In addition, the property has an exclusive Beach Club for lunches and beach days with all the comforts, accessible by private transport from the hotel, which also includes a spa with wellness treatments. Leisure activities are varied and personalised, from massages to water sports, guided tours, photo shoots and private yacht charters. Intimacy, exclusivity and relaxation are the qualities that make a stay at Le Toiny stand out. A different experience, in a destination without crowds and with all the comforts.

More information: https://letoiny.com/ / reservations@letoiny.com

Florence, Italy

All the splendour and historical beauty of Florence comes to life in this hotel built and restored in 1868 in what was once a mansion overlooking the Boboli Gardens. Villa Cora was inaugurated when Florence was the capital of the Kingdom of Italy and became over the years one of Florence’s greatest cultural and cosmopolitan symbols. It earned its reputation after hosting such important figures as Princess Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III and the French musician Claude Debussy, and is considered the most beautiful residence in the Tuscan capital. Villa Cora became a grand hotel in the late 1960s and since 2016 has been a member of The Leading Hotels of the World. All its history is part of the magic of this hotel made up of a main building and other annexes surrounded by sumptuous flower gardens and an outdoor swimming pool. These open spaces, together with a raised terrace, are perfect for hosting romantic dinners or enjoying a cocktail in a unique setting.
Among its outstanding services, the hotel offers a private chauffeur-driven car for the journey to the centre of Florence, two fantastic restaurants, bar, cigar room, and a pool bar by the pool. They offer various activities for two, such as wine and oil tastings and cooking classes.
To enhance the enjoyment experience, Villa Cora has a spa that includes a couple’s massage room, where guests can also enjoy a sauna, swimming pool, a hammam and their selected wellness treatments.

More information: http://www.villacora.it/es/index.php / info@villacora.it

Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands are an undiscovered Caribbean paradise with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The ideal place for couples looking for an uncrowded destination where they can enjoy the sea, activities connecting with The US Virgin Islands are an undiscovered Caribbean paradise with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The ideal place for couples looking for an uncrowded destination where they can enjoy the sea, nature activities (without compromising on comfort) and deep relaxation. To make this possible, the firm &Beyond Yacht Charters, created by two lovers of the Caribbean and the oceans, offers the possibility of enjoying a stay on private crewed yachts with all-inclusive service and totally personalised according to the preferences of the guests: touring paradisiacal beaches while enjoying gourmet cuisine adapted to their tastes, doing water sports in secluded landscapes, sharing yoga classes or sunset walks? With the proposal of &Beyond Yacht Charters and the dedication of its entire team it is possible to be inspired to create a different and totally tailor-made trip for the couple. Their crews are specially dedicated to provide services and experiences based on the tastes of the couple. Their great differential is professionalism combined with the gift of being hosts. And although the Virgin Islands are a highly recommended destination to discover aboard a private yacht, there is also a special proposal for those who prefer to combine a stay on land and at sea. Through the “Stay and Sail” programme, &Beyond Yacht Charters & Lovango Resort, hotel and beach club, offer their guests the possibility to enjoy a stay combining both experiences with all the comforts.

More information: https://andbeyondyachtcharters.com/ / contactus@andbeyondyachtcharters.com

Placencia, Belize

Itz ́ana is one of Belize’s newest hotels. It is located on the Placencia peninsula in the southeast of the country.
On a palm-fringed white sand beach, Itz’ana Resort is a slice of Belizean paradise and a gateway to adventure and relaxation. All rooms and villas at Itz’ana Resort have privacy as a priority, with wrap-around terraces, spacious interiors and a multitude of luxurious amenities. The one-bedroom beachfront villa with private pool is the ideal retreat for couples.
The property features two restaurants Limilia and Biblio with culinary experiences that transcend the Caribbean. From elegant seasonal dining to masterfully crafted cocktails, their spaces are designed to satisfy and inspire every palate. And when it comes to romantic activities, Itz’ana launched the “we belong together” programme dedicated to those celebrating love, honeymoon, anniversary or just a romantic getaway. The programme includes 4 nights at the Beach Front loft, breakfast, sparkling wine on arrival, sunset sail, picnic for two and private romantic dinner. Includes transfer from Placencia airport and flight from Belize City.

More information: reservations@itzanabelize.com / https://www.itzanabelize.com/

Published in El Espectador on May 11, 2022, in Colombia

Balloon flights, suites with private pool and views of paradise, personalised picnics, sunset sailing and wellness treatments are some of the proposals.

1. Argos in Cappadocia, in Cappadocia, Turkey

Argos in Cappadocia is one of the most important transformation projects in Cappadocia, a boutique hotel that exceeds the expectations of the most sophisticated international travellers.

Considered by many guests to be one of the most romantic experiences in the world, it has 51 suites that combine modernity and luxury, including fireplaces and private pools set in carefully restored historic tunnels and caves.

The property, which used to be a former mansion and monastery, has gardens and terraces from which you can enjoy panoramic views of the Uçhisar Fortress, the Valley of Doves and the majestic Mount Erciyes. Because of the great historical and natural wealth that surrounds it and because of all the comforts and personalised services available, Argos in Cappadocia is a unique proposition for a trip for two.

In addition to the famous balloon flight, which is a must for anyone visiting Cappadocia and a romantic postcard in itself, the Argos team can create a series of tailor-made experiences for guests, such as a special breakfast for the couple, picnics with typical products, wine tastings from the hotel’s cellar, moonlit walks, among others.

(Read also: 7 glampings near Bogota to enjoy the luxury of tranquility)

2. Le Toiny, in Saint Barthélemy, Caribbean

With a majestic view of the Caribbean Sea, on the hillside above Anse de Toiny sits the Hotel Le Toiny. Twenty-two exclusive and independent villas and suites set in an oasis of calm and nature create a unique atmosphere. Each suite offers a private swimming pool, a large terrace and views over the beautiful bay of Toiny.

The essence of the hotel is calm and privacy, which is why all suites have more than 92 m² of private space including a terrace, large heated swimming pools and magnificent sea views making it the perfect setting for romantic getaways, honeymoons and anniversaries. Its restaurant, Le Toiny, offers a modern gastronomic menu, a simple and refined European-inspired cuisine prepared by its team of talented chefs.

In addition, the property has an exclusive Beach Club for lunches and beach days with all the comforts, accessible by private transport from the hotel, which also includes a spa with wellness treatments. The leisure activities are varied and personalised, from massages to water sports, guided tours, photo sessions, among others. Intimacy, exclusivity and relaxation are the qualities that make a stay at Le Toiny stand out. A different experience, in a destination without crowds and with all the comforts.

3. Villa Cora, in Florence, Italy

All the splendour and historical beauty of Florence comes to life in this hotel built and restored in 1868 in what was once a mansion overlooking the Boboli Gardens. Villa Cora was inaugurated when Florence was the capital of the Kingdom of Italy and became over the years one of Florence’s greatest cultural and cosmopolitan symbols.

It earned its reputation after hosting such important figures as Princess Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III and the French musician Claude Debussy, and is considered the most beautiful residence in the Tuscan capital. Villa Cora became a grand hotel in the late 1960s and has been a member of The Leading Hotels of the World since 2016.

All its history is part of the magic of this hotel made up of a main building and other annexes surrounded by sumptuous flower gardens and an outdoor swimming pool. These open spaces, together with a soaring terrace, are perfect for hosting romantic dinners or enjoying a cocktail in a unique setting.

Among its outstanding services, the hotel offers a private car with chauffeur available for the journey to the centre of Florence, has two fantastic restaurants, bar, cigar room, and a pool bar by the pool. They offer various activities for two, such as wine and oil tastings and cooking classes.

To enhance the enjoyment experience, Villa Cora has a spa that includes a couple’s massage room, where guests can also enjoy a sauna, swimming pool, a hammam and their selected wellness treatments.

4. &Beyond Yachts Charters and Lovango Resort in the Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands are an undiscovered Caribbean paradise with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The ideal place for couples looking for an uncrowded destination where they can enjoy the sea, connect with nature (without compromising on comfort) and relax deeply. To make this possible, the firm &Beyond Yacht Charters, created by two lovers of the Caribbean and the oceans, offers the possibility of enjoying a stay in private crewed yachts with all-inclusive service and totally personalised according to the preferences of the guests.

To explore paradisiacal beaches while enjoying gourmet cuisine adapted to their tastes? To do water sports in hidden landscapes? To share yoga classes or sunset walks? With the proposal of &Beyond Yacht Charters and the dedication of its entire team it is possible to be inspired to create a different and totally tailor-made trip for the couple. Their crews are specially dedicated to provide services and experiences based on the couple’s tastes. Their great differential is professionalism combined with the gift of being hosts.

(Read also: Here’s how you can dive some of the Caribbean’s most dazzling scenery).

And while the Virgin Islands are a highly recommended destination to discover aboard a private yacht, there is also a special proposal for those who prefer to combine a stay on land and at sea. Through the “Stay and Sail” programme, &Beyond Yacht Charters & Lovango Resort, hotel and beach club, offer their guests the possibility to enjoy a stay combining both experiences with all the comforts.

Felix, one of the &Beyond Yacht Charters boats fully equipped to offer a personalised service.

5. Itzana Resort & Residences in Belize

Itz’ana is one of Belize’s newest hotels. It is located on the Placencia Peninsula in the southeast of the country.

On a palm-fringed white sand beach, Itz’ana Resort is a slice of Belizean paradise and a gateway to adventure and relaxation.

All rooms and villas at Itz’ana Resort have privacy as a priority, with wrap-around terraces, spacious interiors and a multitude of luxurious amenities. The one-bedroom beachfront villa with private pool is the ideal retreat for couples.

The property features two restaurants Limilia and Biblio with culinary experiences that transcend the Caribbean. From elegant seasonal dining to masterfully crafted cocktails, their spaces are designed to satisfy and inspire every palate.

And when it comes to romantic activities, Itz’ana launched the “we belong together” programme dedicated to those celebrating love, honeymoon, anniversary or just a romantic getaway. The programme includes four nights in the Beach Front loft, breakfast, sparkling wine on arrival, sunset sail, picnic for two and private romantic dinner. Includes transfer from Placencia airport and flight from Belize City.

Have you been thinking about switching out your holidays in the snow for holidays in the sun? We find that when people are first considering a yacht charter vacation over the holiday season, their reservations are mostly based on what they might miss about being home. They’re not sure what to expect and feel a little worried that the holidays won’t be the same on a boat. 

But there are many reasons why Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve are among our most popular weeks of the year.

Here are a couple of things to help you decide if spending the holidays in the Virgin Islands sounds right for you and your family…

You can bring some of your favorite holiday traditions with you

Have ornaments or stockings you love hanging up every year? Pack ‘em and your crew will decorate the boat with them!

Always go Christmas caroling door to door? Hop in the dinghy and carol around the mooring field!

@sail.felix

Feel like Thanksgiving wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without Grandma’s yams? Send the recipe to your crew, and we’ll make sure it’s a part of your holiday table!

The point is, we’re here to make your holidays at sea just as magical, if not more so, than the ones you’ve spent on land. If you’ve got a tradition you’d like to bring aboard with you, just let us know and we’ll do our utmost to accommodate it. 

Instead of staying in the same house, multiple families will sail as a flotilla

If you’ve got a large, multi-generational family group, we’ll help you coordinate which yachts will be the best fit for your group. Then, the yachts’ crews will coordinate your charter so that the boats can all stick together, anchoring/mooring in the same spots each evening.

@yacht.esperanza

It’s a ton of fun to sail as a group of boats and makes for amazing photos!

Someone else makes the big holiday meal(s)

This is hands down the number one thing our holiday guests love about spending the holidays on yacht charter – they don’t have to do the cooking! Or the planning. Or the shopping. Or the clean-up. Huzzah!

@dreamcatcher_charters

Having a yacht chef is a surefire way to remove all stress from your holiday season. Your chef will work with your food preferences to ensure your holiday meal(s) are beyond memorable. 

You’ll rub elbows with the rich and famous 

The holiday season in the Caribbean is one of the most popular times of the year. The uber wealthy love escaping the cold winter weather and all head south, knowing that building a sandman is WAY better than building a snowman. 

Some of the largest, most opulent yachts in the world are in the Virgin Islands waters over the holidays, so you’ll have some truly fabulous scenery around you while on charter. And who knows – you may even sidle up next to a celebrity or two at the beach bar. 

Either way, you’ll be sharing the same views and beaches as those who can afford to travel anywhere in the world. You don’t need a billion dollar yacht to soak up this destination!

There are still Christmas trees, but they’re on the beach

Think Christmas won’t feel like Christmas in the Caribbean? Think again. 

The holiday spirit is alive and strong in the Virgin Islands. Locals love celebrating the season here just as much as you do at home. There are holiday decorations everywhere, Jimmy Buffet crooning carols on the beach bar’s stereo, and plenty of cheer to go around. 

Also, if you typically attend religious services back at home for the holidays, your crew can help coordinate a visit for you to a local house of worship.  

The fireworks show is over the water – and you watch from your yacht

You’ve never seen a New Year’s Eve fireworks show like ones that takes place over the sparkling Caribbean sea with tropical islands as the backdrop. Watching the bursts of light in the sky from your yacht, floating on the calm waters, is a breathtaking experience. 

There are plenty of NYE parties throughout the islands, if you’d like to dance the night away, or your crew can plan a more low key affair right in the privacy of your own boat. 

You create new traditions you now want to repeat year after year

There’s a reason why most of our holiday bookings fill up quickly, often a year in advance. That’s because once you try out spending your holidays in the Caribbean, you want to do it again every year thereafter. 

Spending your holiday on yacht charter not only allows you to bring along traditions from home, but it also allows you to create new traditions: snorkeling before Thanksgiving dinner (while someone else cooks it!), lobster brunch on Christmas morning, a New Year’s Eve bar crawl via dinghy… Not to mention all of the new local holiday treats you’ll soon crave – black cake, sorrel, coquito, guavaberry rum… now we’re getting hungry!

@sv_believen

We LOVE spending our holidays in the Caribbean and consider it our pleasure to show our guests the wonder and gifts of the season here. 

If you’d like to take a yacht charter for the holidays this year, we have a few remaining bookings available over Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Contact our yacht consultant before spaces fill up to check availability and find the perfect yacht for your group’s ultimate charter!

Published in Rosie s Tips on Jun 6th, in Argentina and Latam

The US Virgin Islands are more than 50 islands with crystal clear waters. The main ones are three:

-St Thomas: The most cosmopolitan. Tax-free shops, international cuisine restaurants, museums, golf courses and water sports on an island that combines colonial history, modernity and a Caribbean atmosphere. Here is the capital Charlotte Amalie, the port bay, the International Airport and the most important hotel, gastronomic and commercial development in the area.
-St John: Much of it is within the Virgin Islands National Park. Spectacular beaches and an ideal setting for outdoor sports. Also here is Trunk Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
-St Croix: Famous for its natural and cultural abundance. It ranges from 18th and 19th century mansions in Christiansted to a tropical rainforest in Frederiksted. St Croix is ​​recognized as one of the top dive sites in the world.

More data:
-If you travel from Latin America, the most direct air route is via Miami.
-For those looking for a different experience, &Beyond Yacht Charters offers a stay in private manned yachts with personalized all-inclusive service. Whether it’s a trip with friends, as a couple or as a family, they put it together according to your preferences. Would you like to visit paradisiacal beaches enjoying gourmet cuisine? Diving or yoga in movie landscapes? Stay and sail on a pet friendly yacht with activities for the whole family? With &Beyond Yacht Charters it is possible. More info at https://andbeyondyachtcharters.com/
· The climate is ideal almost all year round, but its high season is from December to May.
· In St Thomas is the house of Camille Pisarro.
· As it is a US territory, it is necessary to have a VISA to enter.
· Columbus discovered the islands on his 2nd trip to America and baptized them in 1493 as “Santa Úrsula and the Eleven Thousand Virgins” in honor of the legend. Over time they were abbreviated as “Virgin Islands”.

More info: https://www.visitusvi.com/

Published in Magazine Huéspedes on Jun 18th, in Argentina

By Walter Duer

The experience of hiring a private yacht to dive in the Caribbean

Discovering the wonders of the underwater world is, without a doubt, a different and unforgettable natural spectacle. And although there are several destinations that offer this activity, practicing it in a personalized way can completely improve our experience. For this to be possible, &Beyond Yacht Charters proposes us to enjoy a vacation manned by two diving professionals, lovers of the ocean and true connoisseurs of the most amazing corners of the Virgin Islands.

Along with &Beyond, the diving experience begins on board commanded by Heiko and Rebecca, who will take us on a unique adventure in the Caribbean, prioritizing our enjoyment, care and comfort at all times.

Crew members, hosts and diving professionals

Heiko, born and raised in Germany, is certified as an RYA Offshore Yachtmaster. He is a yoga instructor, a freediver and a lover of sharing unique experiences in nature. For many years he worked in technology until in 2014 he decided to fulfill his dream of traveling the world. He toured Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and Latin America. He got to know more than 30 countries in which he climbed mountains, learned Spanish, scuba dived and lived incredible adventures in and out of the sea. What he began as a temporary trip, became a before and after on his way to a new lifestyle in the Caribbean paradise.

Rebecca, born and raised in New York. She graduated in Economics and Psychology and worked in banks in New York and Hong Kong. She lived in different cities and her life changed completely in 2005 after a trip to Australia in which she learned to dive in the Great Barrier Reef. Two years later, she left the city to live surrounded by nature. She spent two months diving in the Philippines, three months on a marine conservation expedition in Madagascar, and four months completing her Divemaster internship in Malaysia. After these experiences, she lived in Sweden where she discovered her passion for life on board. She was certified in PADI and worked as a diving instructor in Thailand, Hawaii and Indonesia, always with a pending dream: to live in the Caribbean. Today she enjoys her tropical life and sunrise every day with a view of paradise.

As well as diving professionals, Heiko and Rebecca are navigation captains and did their training and licensing together. For them, it is a pleasure to be able to accompany their guests, both those who have dived on previous occasions and those who practice it for the first time and may have certain fears or doubts. Led by Heiko and Rebecca, clients live a relaxed experience while enjoying the abundant flora and fauna under the sea.

After personalized and supervised dives, they will dedicate their clients to enjoying all the comforts and services on board &Beyond.
Rebecca is a lover of cooking and some of her specialties are the plant based and raw menus, since they both have a vegetarian diet. Heiko spends his free time exploring the islands, discovering new corners to share. Both usually entertain and surprise guests with their delicacies, their tours of the best spots on the islands and their passion for inspiring a lifestyle in harmony with nature.

Felix, the ideal boat to dive in the Virgin Islands

This season, Heiko and Rebecca carry out their experiences aboard Felix, one of the &Beyond Yacht Charters vessels fully equipped to offer a personalized service. The Felix yacht has 4 queen-size cabins with en-suite bathrooms in which 8 people can comfortably sleep, it has great lighting and natural ventilation, as well as air conditioning in each cabin, living room and outdoor spaces to relax and enjoy.

Together with &Beyond, Heiko and Rebecca create custom itineraries aboard Felix in the US Virgin Islands, primarily around St. Thomas and St. Johns and all their paradise islands. The British Virgin Islands can also be a perfect setting for practicing this sport.

Whether it’s for a fun family adventure or a Caribbean getaway with friends, the Felix is ​​an ideal vessel.

Passionate about providing a highly professional level of service in a relaxed and friendly environment, Heiko and Rebecca, as well as the entire team at &Beyond Yacht Charters, create dream experiences for those seeking a vacation of relaxation, enjoyment and adventure in the Caribbean.

#Caribbean #Beach #Diving #Adventure

Published in MJ by Summa on Jun 18th, in America Central y Caribe

Balloon flights, suites with private pool and views of paradise, are some of the proposals of these tourist firms to create an unforgettable trip for two.

By MJ Magazine

From Tuscany to the Caribbean Sea: these are some experiences around the world.

Argos in Cappadocia in Cappadocia, Turkey

Argos in Cappadocia is one of the most important transformation projects in Cappadocia, a boutique hotel that exceeds the expectations of the most sophisticated international travellers.

Considered by many guests as one of the most romantic experiences in the world, it has 51 suites that combine modernity and luxury, including fireplaces and private pools located in historic tunnels and caves that have been carefully restored. The property, which used to be an old mansion and monastery, has gardens and terraces from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Uçhisar Fortress, the Valley of Pigeons and the majestic Mount Erciyes.

Due to the great historical and natural wealth that surrounds it and for all the comforts and personalized services available, Argos in Cappadocia is a unique proposal for a trip for two. In addition to the famous balloon flight, which is a must for those visiting Cappadocia and a romantic postcard in itself, the Argos team has the possibility of creating a series of tailor-made experiences for guests, such as a special breakfast for the couple, picnics with typical products, wine tastings from the hotel cellar, walks under the moonlight, among others. Staying at Argos in Cappadocia is an experience in which enjoyment and relaxation are perfectly combined with a magical natural setting surrounded by history, luxury and comfort.

Le Toiny in St Barths

With a majestic view of the Caribbean Sea, on the slope above Anse de Toiny is located the Hotel Le Toiny. Twenty-two exclusive and independent villas and suites located in an oasis of calm and nature that creates a unique atmosphere. Each suite offers a private pool, a large terrace and views of the wonderful bay of Toiny. The essence of the hotel is calm and privacy, which is why all the suites have more than 92 m2 of private space with a terrace included, large heated pools and magnificent views of the sea, making it the perfect setting for romantic getaways, honeymoons and anniversaries.

Its Le Toiny restaurant offers a modern gastronomic menu, simple and refined European-inspired cuisine
prepared by their team of talented chefs. In turn, the property has an exclusive Beach Club to enjoy lunches and days at the beach with all the comforts, which can be accessed by private transport from the hotel and which also includes a spa with wellness treatments. Leisure activities are varied and personalized, from massages to water sports, guided tours, photo sessions and private yacht rentals. Intimacy, exclusivity and relaxation are the qualities that distinguish stays at Le Toiny. A different experience, in a destination without crowds and with all the comforts.

Villa Cora in Florence, Italy

All the splendor and historical Florentine beauty come to life in this hotel built and restored in 1868 in what used to be a mansion overlooking the Boboli Gardens. Villa Cora was inaugurated when Florence was the capital of the
Kingdom of Italy and became over the years one of the greatest cultural and cosmopolitan symbols of Florence. It earned its reputation after hosting figures of great importance such as Princess Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III and the French musician Claude Debussy, and is considered the most beautiful residence in the Tuscan capital. Villa Cora became a grand hotel in the late 1960s and since 2016 has been a member of The Leading Hotels of the World. All its history is part of the magic of this hotel made up of a main building and other annexes surrounded by sumptuous flower gardens and an outdoor swimming pool.

These open spaces, along with a raised terrace, are perfect for holding romantic dinners or enjoying a cocktail in a unique setting. Among its outstanding services, the hotel offers a private car with a driver at disposal for the journey to the center of Florence, it has two fantastic restaurants, a bar, a cigar room, and a pool bar by the pool. They offer different activities to do in pairs, such as wine and oil tastings and cooking classes.

To enhance the enjoyment experience, Villa Cora has a spa that includes a massage room for couples, where guests can also enjoy a sauna, swimming pool, a hammam and its select wellness treatments.

&Beyond Yachts Charters and Lovango Resort in the Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands are an unexplored Caribbean paradise, with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The ideal place for couples looking for a destination without crowds where they can enjoy the sea, activities in connection with nature (without giving up comfort) and rest deeply. To make this possible, the firm &Beyond Yacht Charters, created by two lovers of the Caribbean and the oceans, offers the possibility of enjoying a stay in private manned yachts with all-inclusive service and totally personalized according to the preferences of the guests.

Tour paradisiacal beaches while enjoying gourmet cuisine adapted to your tastes? Do water sports in remote landscapes? Share yoga classes or sunset walks? With the proposal of &Beyond Yacht Charters and the dedication of its entire team, it is possible to be inspired to create a different trip totally tailored to the couple. Their crews are especially dedicated to providing services and experiences based on the tastes of the couple. Their great differential is professionalism combined with the gift of being hosts.

And although the Virgin Islands are a highly recommended destination to discover aboard a private yacht, there is also a special proposal for those who prefer to combine a stay on land and sea. Through the “Stay and Sail” program, &Beyond Yacht Charters & Lovango Resort, hotel and beach club, offer their guests the possibility of enjoying a stay combining both experiences with all the comforts.

Itzana Resort & Residences in Belize

Itz´ana is one of the newest hotels in Belize. It is located on the Placencia peninsula, in the southeast of the country. On a palm-fringed, white-sand beach, Itz’ana Resort is a slice of Belizean paradise and a gateway to adventure and relaxation. All rooms and villas at Itz’ana Resort have privacy as a priority, with wraparound terraces, spacious interior spaces, and a multitude of luxurious amenities. The one bedroom beachfront villa with private pool is the ideal getaway for couples.

The property has two restaurants Limilia and Biblio with culinary experiences that transcend the Caribbean. From elegant seasonal dining to masterfully crafted cocktails, its spaces are designed to satisfy and inspire all palates. And if it’s about romantic activities, Itz’ana launched the “we belong together” program dedicated to those who celebrate love, honeymoon, anniversary or just a romantic getaway. The program includes 4 nights in the Beach Front loft, breakfast, sparkling wine upon arrival, sunset sailing, picnic for two and a private romantic dinner. Includes transfer from Placencia airport and flight from Belize City.

While in the research stage, many prospective yacht owners reach out to us to discuss the investment of chartering a yacht and everything it entails. Yacht management is, in fact, one of our Primary offerings. We are passionate about helping yacht owners turn their yacht into a profitable business through commercial charter operations.

But what happens when the prospective owner has trouble finding the ideal boat to invest in? Up until now, we’ve only been able to provide a few recommendations on where to start looking. Finally, we’re delighted to announce that we now have a trusted partner we can refer you to for purchasing your yacht.

And Beyond Yacht Charters is proud to partner with Catamaran Central for all of your yacht purchasing needs.

Meet Catamaran Central

Catamaran Central was born out of the desire to create a more interactive yacht sales resource.

The basis for their interactive approach began in 2017 with the creation of the Catamaran Central YouTube channel. What originally started as running and gunning walkthrough videos and market updates has transitioned into one of the largest YouTube yacht sales channels.

They connect you with both new and pre-owned catamarans, all luxuriously built to accommodate commercial chartering.

I bought a yacht – now what?

As the go-to yacht management partner for Catamaran Central, we will assist new yacht owners with setting their new or pre-owned boats up properly to begin chartering.

Our yacht management services are all encompassing, so you as an owner can turn the responsibility over completely and simply reap the financial benefits of your yacht as a business.

Our experienced team handles everything from yacht set-up, staffing + training crew, accounting, maintenance, bookings, and more.

Yacht acquisition/disposal and yacht management are the perfect pairing for those looking to embark on the exciting opportunities in the yacht charter industry. We are so proud to connect you with the professional team at Catamaran Central. As a boutique, luxury enterprise, they share our values and dedication to provide only the best for our yacht owners and guests.

If you have more questions about our yacht management program (or anything else), feel free to reach out to our yacht consultant – we’re always available to chat and help you map out your future investment.

Published in Maleva  on June 23, 2022, in Argentina

This is the story of Heiko and Rebecca, the dream crew for a luxury diving experience in the Virgin Islands.

Boats with all the comforts, destinations that are best enjoyed from the sea, different experiences and a greater connection with nature. Groups of friends, families, couples and even work teams opt for experiences in which they can combine their stay on land and sea. In this note, for those who can aim high, a selection of hotels and firms that offer the navigation proposal. Either to vacation completely on board, to combine the stay on land with a few days at sea or to be able to rent a boat with crew and all the personalized services for a few hours.

1) And Beyond Yacht Charters: on a yacht crewed by the US Virgin Islands in the Caribbean.

Created by Collin and Corinne, two lovers of the sea, «& Beyond Yacht Charters» is a manned boat rental firm with an all-inclusive service at sea. Based in the US Virgin Islands, their yachts cruise through several of the Caribbean’s most stunning islands and destinations. They have a fleet of 20 manned yachts, all in “exclusive, all inclusive” service mode through which they create totally personalized itineraries for their guests. For those who are not yet encouraged to live on board for the entire stay, «& Beyond Yacht Charters» has an agreement with Lovango Resort through its “Stay and Sail” program, thus offering the possibility of enjoying a stay on a boat and in hotel, both with all the comforts.

2) La Coralina Island House: on the designer sailboat “Don Juan” through the Bocas de Toro archipelago in Panama.

In the heart of Bocas del Toro, an archipelago of seven islands surrounded by the tropical setting of Panama, La Coralina Island House is the newest concept in oceanfront luxury in the Caribbean. Officially opened in December 2021, the destination, its villas and suites provide an immersive experience in the exuberant nature of the country, with the best views of the ocean. One of its differential services is to offer its guests the possibility of embarking on board “Don Juan”, a ship designed by a world-renowned naval architect. Your vessel, Don Juan, is fully equipped to accommodate up to 6 passengers with 3 separate suites and bathrooms, kitchen, and service on board. On board Don Juan, guests have the opportunity to discover some of the best islands in Panama, such as the Escudo de Veraguas, in a unique way.

3) Hotel Las Islas: with a sailing house in Barú, Colombia.

The Las Islas hotel, located in Barú, Cartagena, offers its guests the possibility of staying in one of its 56 bungalows: 23 at sea level, 33 in height with a view of the sea and internal gardens of the hotel and a sailing house. For a completely different experience from the concept of bungalows, Hotel Las Islas offers the possibility of living a stay in its Casa Navegante, located in the Ciénaga de Cholón. The Casa Navegante experience includes two bedrooms with a king-size bed, two sofa beds, a living room, a freshwater or saltwater pool, a Japanese dining room and a regular dining room, two bathrooms, a freshwater shower, and amenities.

4) Fasano Hotel and its manned boats in Angra dos Reis, Brazil.

Fasano Angra dos Reis opened its doors in December 2017, on the Costa Verde, one of the most unique destinations in Brazil. A hotel located in one of the most stunning areas of the region and with access to beaches, boutiques, golf courses. Although the hotel offers absolutely all the comforts, they know that one of the best ways to get to know Angra is from the sea. This is why they offer their guests the possibility of renting personalized boats to discover the most incredible scenery of the islands. You can also snorkel or dive. The hotel has its own marine crew and the tours are personalized with a duration of 4 to 8 hours. They also offer the possibility of taking navigation classes for those who are interested.

Published in The Espectador on May 14, 2022, in Colombia

This is the story of Heiko and Rebecca, the dream crew for a luxury diving experience in the Virgin Islands.

Discovering the wonders of the underwater world is, without a doubt, a different and unforgettable natural spectacle. And although there are several destinations that offer this activity, practicing it in a personalized way can completely improve the experience.

To make this possible, &Beyond Yacht Charters proposes enjoying a vacation manned by two diving professionals, lovers of the ocean and true connoisseurs of the most amazing corners of the Virgin Islands. The diving experience begins on board commanded by Heiko and Rebecca, who will take you on a unique adventure in the Caribbean, prioritizing enjoyment, care and comfort at all times.

Crew members, hosts and diving professionals

Heiko, born and raised in Germany, is certified as an RYA Offshore Yachtmaster. He is a yoga instructor, a freediver and a lover of sharing unique experiences in nature. For many years he worked in technology, until in 2014 he decided to fulfill his dream of traveling the world. He toured Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and Latin America, visiting more than 30 countries where he climbed mountains, learned Spanish, scuba dived, and lived incredible adventures in and out of the sea. What started as a temporary trip, became a before and after on his way to a new lifestyle in the Caribbean paradise.

Rebecca, born and raised in New York, graduated in Economics and Psychology and worked in banks in the “capital of the world” and Hong Kong. She lived in different cities and her life changed completely in 2005 after a trip to Australia in which she learned to dive in the Great Barrier Reef. Two years later, she left the city to live surrounded by nature. She spent two months diving in the Philippines, three months on a marine conservation expedition in Madagascar, and four months completing her Divemaster internship in Malaysia.

After these experiences, she lived in Sweden where she discovered her passion for life on board. She was certified in PADI and worked as a diving instructor in Thailand, Hawaii and Indonesia, always with a dream pending: to live in the Caribbean. Today she enjoys her tropical life and sunrise every day with a view of paradise.

As well as diving professionals, Heiko and Rebecca are navigation captains and did their training and licensing together. For them, it is a pleasure to be able to accompany their guests, both those who have dived on previous occasions and those who practice it for the first time and may have certain fears or doubts.

Led by Heiko and Rebecca, clients live a relaxed experience while enjoying the abundant flora and fauna under the sea.

After personalized and supervised dives, they will dedicate their clients to enjoying all the comforts and services on board &Beyond.

Rebecca is a lover of cooking and some of her specialties are the plant based and raw menus, since they both have a vegetarian diet. Heiko spends his free time exploring the islands, discovering new corners to share. Both usually entertain and surprise guests with their delicacies, their tours of the best spots on the islands and their passion for inspiring a lifestyle in harmony with nature.

Felix, the ideal boat to dive in the Virgin Islands

This season, Heiko and Rebecca carry out their experiences aboard Felix, one of the &Beyond Yacht Charters vessels fully equipped to offer a personalized service. The Felix yacht has four cabins with bathroom, in which eight people can sleep comfortably, has great lighting and natural ventilation, as well as air conditioning in each cabin, living room and outdoor spaces to relax and enjoy.

Together with &Beyond, Heiko and Rebecca create custom itineraries aboard Felix in the US Virgin Islands, primarily around St. Thomas and St. Johns and all their paradise islands. The British Virgin Islands can also be a perfect setting for practicing this sport.

These are some recommendations and experiences of Heiko and Rebecca.

What are some of the most incredible places to dive in the Virgin Islands?

One of our favorite dive spots is Great Lameshur – it’s covered in pink, purple and yellow corals, creating a beautiful underwater garden-like landscape. The marine life that we can find is very abundant and includes tropical reef fish, small creatures such as shrimp, crabs and snails and larger species such as green sea turtles, Caribbean reef sharks and nurse sharks.

What are the requirements to dive with &Beyond? Is it necessary to have any previous experience?

On &Beyond’s Felix Yacht we offer guided dives for certified divers, usually with Heiko, and an introduction to scuba diving called PADI Discover Scuba Diving, which is a highly supervised experience for those without scuba certification. The latter is done with Rebecca, who is an instructor and therefore qualified to do this program.

The dives we do are generally shallow (max 12-18 meters, average 6-7 meters), relaxed and easy dives for all ages and levels of divers, so even if a diver hasn’t dived in many years, locations are suitable and we also adjust our level of care and supervision. For those who have never dived before and want to give it a try, the PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience is the ideal way to try it out.

Heiko and Rebecca carry out their experiences aboard Felix, one of the &Beyond Yacht Charters vessels fully equipped to offer a personalized service.

How many dives can be done during the stay with &Beyond aboard Felix?

At Felix three dives for certified divers are included in a minimum rental of six nights. All equipment (BCD, regulator, mask, fins, wetsuit, weights, tank) is included and these dives are guided by Heiko. Additional dives can be added for an additional cost, subject to the planned itinerary, other activities the group has requested, and at the captain’s discretion. Doing a dive will normally take up the entire morning between breakfast and lunch.

PADI Discover Scuba Diving costs $150 per person for a two to three hour experience that includes a brief theory lesson on the boat, equipment familiarization and practice on the boat, shallow water practice followed by a dive with Rebecca to a maximum of 12 meters if the guest can perform all the necessary diving skills during practice. Rebecca will carry a maximum of two participants at a time for safety.

What is the main differential of diving with &Beyond?

We offer a luxury diving experience. We help them with their equipment at all times, with their weight requirements, we supervise and review them more than once to check that everything is correct before entering the water. It goes without saying that during the dive, we focus on everyone being safe throughout the journey.

Before each dive, and in particular before the first dive, we provide a full and detailed dive summary covering all necessary information, tailored to our guests’ experience and comfort level. We provide a much higher level of service than many of our guests are used to – all they have to do is dive!

Published in El Cronista  on May 27th

Boats with all the comforts, destinations that are best enjoyed from the sea, different experiences and a greater connection with nature. Groups of friends, families, couples and even work teams opt for experiences in which they can combine their stay on land and sea. In this note, for those who can aim high, a selection of hotels and firms that offer the navigation proposal. Either to vacation completely on board, to combine the stay on land with a few days at sea or to be able to rent a boat with crew and all the personalized services for a few hours.

1) AND BEYOND YACHT CHARTERS: ON A YACHT MANNED BY THE US VIRGIN ISLANDS IN THE CARIBBEAN

Created by Collin and Corinne, two lovers of the sea, «& Beyond Yacht Charters» is a manned boat rental firm with an all-inclusive service at sea. Based in the US Virgin Islands, their yachts cruise through several of the Caribbean’s most stunning islands and destinations. They have a fleet of 20 manned yachts, all in “exclusive, all inclusive” service mode through which they create totally personalized itineraries for their guests. For those who are not yet encouraged to live on board for the entire stay, «& Beyond Yacht Charters» has an agreement with Lovango Resort through its “Stay and Sail” program, thus offering the possibility of enjoying a stay on a boat and in hotel, both with all the comforts.

https://andbeyondyachtcharters.com/

2) LA CORALINA ISLAND HOUSE: ON THE “DON JUAN” DESIGN SAILBOAT IN THE BOCAS DE TORO ARCHIPELAGO IN PANAMA.

In the heart of Bocas del Toro, an archipelago of seven islands surrounded by the tropical setting of Panama, La Coralina Island House is the newest concept in oceanfront luxury in the Caribbean. Officially opened in December 2021, the destination, its villas and suites provide an immersive experience in the exuberant nature of the country, with the best views of the ocean. One of its differential services is to offer its guests the possibility of embarking on board “Don Juan”, a ship designed by a world-renowned naval architect. Your vessel, Don Juan, is fully equipped to accommodate up to 6 passengers with 3 separate suites and bathrooms, kitchen, and service on board. On board Don Juan, guests have the opportunity to discover some of the best islands in Panama, such as the Escudo de Veraguas, in a unique way.

https://www.lacoralinaislandhouse.com/

3) HOTEL LAS ISLAS: WITH A NAVIGANT HOUSE IN BARÚ, COLOMBIA.

The Las Islas hotel, located in Barú, Cartagena, offers its guests the possibility of staying in one of its 56 bungalows: 23 at sea level, 33 in height with a view of the sea and internal gardens of the hotel and a navigator’s house. For a completely different experience from the concept of bungalows, Hotel Las Islas offers the possibility of living a stay in its Casa Navegante, located in the Ciénaga de Cholón. The Casa Navegante experience includes two bedrooms with a king-size bed, two sofa beds, a living room, a freshwater or saltwater pool, a Japanese dining room and a regular dining room, two bathrooms, a freshwater shower, and amenities.

https://www.lasislas.com.co/es-co/casa-navegante

4) FASANO HOTEL AND ITS MANNED BOATS IN ANGRA DOS REIS, BRAZIL.

Fasano Angra dos Reis opened its doors in December 2017, on the Costa Verde, one of the most unique destinations in Brazil. A hotel located in one of the most stunning areas of the region and with access to beaches, boutiques, golf courses. Although the hotel offers absolutely all the comforts, they know that one of the best ways to get to know Angra is from the sea. This is why they offer their guests the possibility of renting personalized boats to discover the most incredible scenery of the islands. You can also snorkel or dive. The hotel has its own marine crew and the tours are personalized with a duration of 4 to 8 hours. They also offer the possibility of taking navigation classes for those who are interested.

https://www.fasano.com.br/hoteis/fasano-angra-dos-reis

Production and photos: courtesy of Cocó – Communication Committee -.