FOXNews.com: Lots to see and do for Lincoln fans in Washington

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Lots to see and do for Lincoln fans in Washington Jan 31st 2013, 12:30 WASHINGTON –  Whether you're interested in Lincoln the president or "Lincoln" the movie, Washington is a downright thrilling destination. Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president of the United States and one of the country's most admired, rising from humble roots in a frontier cabin to become a self-educated lawyer and brilliant politician. As president, he ended slavery by issuing the Emancipation Proclamation and preserved the nation despite the Civil War. The story of his assassination is one of the best-known chapters of American history. Many museums are offering special exhibits for the 150th anniversary of the Civil War and the Emancipation Proclamation. Other sites can be visited any time: the Lincoln Memorial, the cottage where he summered, Ford's Theatre, where he was shot, and the Petersen House, where he died. LINCOLN MEMORIAL: This larger-than-life white marble statue of Lincoln, completed in 1922, sits inside a massive columned building. The design, according to the National Park Service, was inspired by the Parthenon, the ancient Greek temple that is considered the birthplace of democracy. About 6 million people visit the memorial each year. Even on a cold winter day, the steps are crowded with visitors from around the world taking pictures and speaking many languages. Located on the National Mall, http://www.nps.gov/linc/ . FORD'S THEATRE AND PETERSEN HOUSE: Lincoln was shot at Ford's Theatre in 1865 while watching a play with his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln. He was brought to a house across the street, now a museum and historic site called the Petersen House. You can see the room where he died and where his war secretary, Edwin Stanton, was said to have uttered the famous words: "Now he belongs to the ages." A visit to Ford's and the Petersen House reveals fascinating details of the crime: The assassin, John Wilkes Booth, an actor as famous in his day as Justin Bieber or George Clooney, walked right up to the box where Lincoln was sitting and shot him in the head. He then leapt to the stage, ran out and fled by horse. Booth was hunted down and shot in a barn 12 days later. A plaque marks the site of a nearby boardinghouse where conspirators were said to have plotted the assassination; the building at 604 H St. (originally 541 H St.) is now a restaurant. The boardinghouse owner, Mary Surratt, was hanged. Within 16 months of the assassination, Ford's Theatre closed and the federal government bought the building. The interior was ripped out and turned into offices. In 1933, the National Park Service acquired the building as a site of historic significance. In 1965, President Lyndon Johnson sanctioned the restoration of a working theater and the interior was recreated to look the way it did when Lincoln was shot. Every president since 1968 has attended a show here, though they now sit near the stage, not in the box. Exhibits at Ford's and at Petersen House include Booth's diary and pistol, Lincoln's shawl, campaign memorabilia and photos. Located at 511 10th St., NW, http://www.fordstheatre.org/. Hours vary, depending on show schedules. Tickets do sell out. Tickets for a self-guided walk-through of Ford's and Petersen House bought through Ticketmaster including fees are $9.75. PRESIDENT LINCOLN'S COTTAGE: This was Lincoln's summer home, where he and his family escaped Washington's heat and humidity. Located on a breezy hill three miles (4.8 kilometers) from the White House, it was the 19th century equivalent of contemporary presidential retreats like Camp David. A statue of Lincoln and his horse evoke his daily half-hour commute to the White House on horseback. He first visited the house three days after his inauguration and last rode to the site the day before he was shot. Wagonloads of furniture were brought here each summer from the White House. But unlike many historic sites, the house today is not filled with furniture or personal items, and that's the point. Guided tours of the mostly empty rooms emphasize Lincoln's ideas and the people he encountered during his stays here and on his daily rides, from favor-seekers and foreigners to former slaves and soldiers. You'll stand in the room where he read Shakespeare and the Bible, hear about his meetings with the secretary of war, see the view from the porch that once offered a clear sightline all the way to downtown Washington, and walk up the stairs where his footsteps were heard when he couldn't sleep. Through April 30, an exhibit here displays one of just 26 existing signed copies of the Emancipation Proclamation. Located on the grounds of one of the country's first federally funded homes for soldiers, known today as the Armed Forces Retirement Home. Entrance at Rock Creek Church Road NW and Upshur Street NW, near 140 Rock Creek Church Road NW. Free parking. Closest metro station, nearly a mile (1.2 kilometers) away, Georgia Avenue/Petworth stop on green/yellow lines. From the metro, the local H8 bus takes four minutes and stops at the site's front gate. Open 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Saturday (first tour 10 a.m., last 3 p.m.) and 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sundays (tours 11 a.m.-3 p.m.). Guided tour tickets required, $15 ($5 for children ages 6-12), http://lincolncottage.org/ . SMITHSONIAN'S NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AMERICAN HISTORY: Lincoln's famous top hat, brown and glossy with age, is currently on display here in the "Changing America: The Emancipation Proclamation, 1863 and the March on Washington, 1963" exhibit (second floor east through Sept. 15). Lincoln was tall at 6 foot 3 (1.9 meters) and the hat made him even taller. He wore the hat to Ford's Theatre the night he was murdered. The "Changing America" exhibit portrays the sweep of history from the abolition of slavery to the civil rights movement. When Martin Luther King Jr. made his famous "I Have a Dream" speech during the March on Washington, he stood at the Lincoln Memorial and echoed Lincoln's famous Gettysburg Address, which began, "Four score and seven years ago." King's opening line: "Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand, signed the Emancipation Proclamation." (Score is an archaic term for 20 years.) Another treasure is in the museum's "The First Ladies" exhibit (third floor): Mary Todd Lincoln's purple velvet gown with white satin piping, mother of pearl buttons and an enormous hoop skirt. The dress was made by her seamstress and confidante, Elizabeth Keckley, an African-American woman who had purchased her own freedom. "The American Presidency: A Glorious Burden" (third floor east) highlights other Lincoln objects including hand casts made two days after he was nominated for presidency, showing his right hand still swollen from shaking so many hands. Uniforms, weapons and other Civil War relics can be seen in "The Price of Freedom: Americans at War" (third floor east). Located between 12th and 14th streets on Constitution Avenue NW, free and open daily, http://americanhistory.si.edu/ . SMITHSONIAN AMERICAN ART MUSEUM AND NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY: "The Civil War and American Art" (first floor west), on display through April 28, offers paintings portraying what the museum describes as the "transformative impact of the Civil War and its aftermath." An 1865 landscape painting of Yosemite Valley notes that Lincoln set aside the California wilderness as America's first federally protected park. Other works show scenes of soldiers. Many of the most thought-provoking images depict African-Americans fleeing slavery or contemplating their new postwar lives. The exhibit includes paintings by some of the era's most important artists, Winslow Homer, Eastman Johnson, Frederic Church and Sanford Gifford. In the National Portrait Gallery, you'll find a photo made of Lincoln in a local studio in 1865, a painting of the president by George P.A. Healy, and plaster casts of Lincoln's face — one made early in his tenure, another made later showing the toll the war took on his gaunt features — along with casts of his hands. Located at Eighth and F streets NW, free and open daily, http://americanart.si.edu/civilwar and http://npg.si.edu . NEWSEUM: An exhibit here called "Blood and Ink: Front Pages From the Civil War" displays more than 30 front pages from the era, from the founding of the Confederacy through Lincoln's death. "A Nation Mourns," reads one headline. Located at 555 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, the former site of the National Hotel, where Booth was staying when he shot Lincoln, http://www.newseum.org/. Daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets, $21.95 plus tax ($12.95 for ages 7 to 18). DINING: Two excellent restaurants near Ford's Theatre are Jaleo, pricey but fabulous tapas, 480 Seventh St., NW, and Teaism, a local chain offering moderately priced eclectic and Asian-influenced dishes, 400 Eighth St., NW. A restaurant called Lincoln, 1110 Vermont Ave., NW, offers a locavore menu and a floor covered with Lincoln pennies.

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FOXNews.com: Golfing with guns

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Golfing with guns Jan 31st 2013, 13:31 LAS VEGAS –  The driving carts and views of snow-capped mountains may lead you to believe you're at a golf course. But this Las Vegas complex has one major difference. "What's different here is instead of having places in the golf cart to put your bags with your golf clubs in it, we have gun racks built in these carts and a place to put your ammunition," said Steve Carmichael, program administrator for the Clark County Shooting Complex. The $3 million, "five-star" sporting clay course, located 25 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip at the Clark County Shooting Complex, offers 30 different shooting across 75 acres of land. The sport more commonly known as "golfing with guns" offers experienced shooters a chance to test out their skills. "Every station offers a different type of shooting challenge," said Carmichael. "All the target launchers are different on each shooting station. It's made to simulate upland birds or maybe even game running on the ground." And for those without experience, no worries. "We can cover the whole gambit because we got people that can come out here with you and can show you how to do it," added Carmichael. "I have some excellent ringmasters that are glad to come out here and spend time with you." The course is open to the public Sunday through Wednesday, with gun rentals starting at $20 and driving cart rentals for $50 a day. Pete Griffin is part of the Junior Reporter program at Fox News. Get more information on the program here.

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FOXNews.com: 14 of the best ski hotels

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14 of the best ski hotels Jan 31st 2013, 13:00 Skiing is one of our favorite winter pastimes: There's just something about getting out in the fresh air (and fresh powder) that does a body good. And whether you're doing the "pizza" down the bunny slopes or have mastered the double black diamond, you'll be sure to have a great time, especially considering all the other offerings ski destinations and hotels have: gorgeous spas, fabulous shopping, heated pools, you name it. So without further adieu, here's a roundup of our favorite ski hotels that go above and beyond with amenities such as ski-in/ski-out locations, elegant rooms, and activity-packed itineraries. Viceroy Snowmass Viceroy Snowmass Viceroy Snowmass is easily the most luxurious resort in Snowmass Village, and is packed with top-notch amenities, including a 7,000-square-foot spa with a stunning relaxation room, a solid fitness center, and a lovely pool area with heated saline pool, cabanas, and fire pit. It also offers phenomenal ski valet service (valets will take care of everything from scheduling lessons to putting your boots on for you) and a prime ski-in, ski-out location. There's a daily resort fee, and you'll have to pay for valet, but that's to be expected at a resort of this caliber. The Gant, Aspen The Gant A popular choice among families, The Gant sits near the base of Aspen Mountain and features 140 one- to four-bedroom condos with Aspen-inspired decor (leather and wood accents, rich colors, and scenic mountain artwork). The hotel is on a large piece of land, and has two heated outdoor pools with accompanying whirlpools. Sky Hotel, a Kimpton Hotel, Aspen Sky Hotel, a Kimpton Hotel The Sky Hotel sits on prime Aspen property, directly at the bottom of the Silver Queen Gondola with one of the best ski-in/ski-out locations in the valley. While rooms are on the small side for the price, they reflect Kimpton's signature style, with a modern take on lodge décor, a daily wine hour, an excellent deck with pool and whirlpool, and one of the most happening apres-ski scenes in Aspen. Amenities for guests' four-legged friends are plentiful, too, and unlike at other resorts, there's no fee or size restriction, easily making this the most pet-friendly hotel in Aspen. One Ski Hill Place, a RockResort, Breckenridge One Ski Hill Place, a RockResort One Ski Hill Place is one of the most luxurious lodges in Breckenridge, with attractive condo-style units featuring gourmet kitchens, beautiful bathrooms (almost all with soaking tubs), and moss rock gas fireplaces. It also offers the most features of any resort in the area, including a two-lane bowling alley, two screening rooms, a billiards room, and an indoor pool area. It has a ski-in/ski-out location right on Peak 8, but getting to Main Street requires a trip on the Breck-Connect Gondola. Hotel Terra Jackson Hole  Hotel Terra Jackson Hole The 132-room Hotel Terra is a trendy, eco-friendly ski lodge that offers a nice break from the often-standard mountain-lodge decor found in other area hotels. The lobby has the characteristic fireplaces and antler-adorned walls, but they're complemented by pops of color and modern furniture. The rooms are sleek, with flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, free Wi-Fi, and organic toiletries in the bathrooms (complete with heated floors). Perhaps most importantly, the hotel is just a short walk from the slopes and has on-site ski rentals and a ski valet. Rusty Parrot Lodge and Spa, Jackson Hole Rusty Parrot Lodge and Spa The small 32-room Rusty Parrot Lodge is decidedly upscale for the area and notably quiet despite its central location. The property embraces a rustic chic decor, including in the super spacious, bright rooms (some with fireplaces) with clean, white-tile bathrooms. It hits all of the requisite apres-ski offerings: an ornate reading room with heavy leather chairs, an outdoor lounge deck with a whirlpool and fire pits, and a stylish bar manned by knowledgeable mixologists. Even though the on-site restaurant Wild Sage has delicious food, guests are still only steps away from Jackson's restaurants, shops, and bars. The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe is a five-star full-service resort in the mountains above Northstar-at-Tahoe ski resort. Along with luxe rooms, a huge spa, and fine dining, the Ritz-Carlton offers ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes and many other recreational activities — including multiple outdoor pools and whirlpools that are open year-round. The only resort built in the area in the last decade (it opened in 2009), the Ritz has, without a doubt, the most luxurious rooms in Lake Tahoe. They feature cozy leather chairs, fireplaces, balconies, deep soaking tubs in the marble bathrooms, and modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and iPod docks. Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort, Lake Tahoe The Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort The four-star Tahoe Mountain Resorts Lodging offers direct access to Northstar-at-Tahoe ski resort, with plenty of nearby upscale shopping and dining found via cobblestone streets. Housed in separate lodges in the quaint Village at Northstar, the spacious, luxe rooms include kitchens, surround-sound TV systems, and fireplaces. A heated pool, underground parking, and the beautiful mountain setting are added bonuses, and what makes it particularly special is that it has the world's only in-lobby gondola. Montage Deer Valley  Montage Deer Valley The Montage in Deer Valley is a large, luxurious resort with a ski-in/ski-out location. The rooms feel like upscale apartments, with warm wood accents, chandeliers, high-end artwork, fireplaces, and marble bathrooms complete heated floors, soaking tubs, and separate showers. The hotel has a massive spa (with free access to its pool, steam rooms, and saunas) and several restaurants, one with fine dining and another with a bowling alley. The St. Regis Deer Valley St. Regis Deer Valley The St. Regis offers a true five-star experience for visitors to Park City. The expansive, well-maintained property has a spacious fitness center with personal trainers and a yoga and Pilates studio, a high-end spa, a spacious heated outdoor pool and whirlpool, a fine-dining restaurant, and elegant rooms with modern amenities and spectacular views. The property swells with A-listers during Sundance (as do the prices), which is no surprise thanks to its on-mountain location in posh Deer Valley. Four Seasons Resort Vail Four Seasons Resort Vail The Four Seasons Vail opened in 2011, and is one of the area's top hotels. All the rooms have warm colors, stone fireplaces, balconies, and huge marble bathrooms with standalone soaking tubs, and almost every amenity impresses, particularly the upscale spa (one of the best in Vail Valley) and lovely outdoor pool area. The Arrabelle at Vaile Square, a RockResort  The Arrabelle at Vail Square, a RockResort This rustic-luxe, chalet-inspired lodge is one of Vail's premier options, with a location in the heart of Vail Square, near the Eagle Bahn lift. The 62 luxurious rooms feature massive bathrooms, stone fireplaces, and scenic balconies, and both the lavish spa and rooftop lap pool pack serious wow factor. Four Seasons Resort Whistler Four Seasons Resort Whistler The Four Seasons is one of the most luxurious, beautiful resorts in Whistler. The property features a heated outdoor pool; a top-notch fitness center (complete with a yoga/cycling studio) and spa; and large rooms and residences with fireplaces, gorgeous bathrooms, and of course, great mountain views. The upscale "ski lodge" lobby exudes a cozy vibe, with wood-paneled walls, wood beamed- ceilings, and chandeliers, as do the bar and steakhouse (with amazing mountain views). Fairmont Chateau Whistler Fairmont Chateau Whistler This 550-room Fairmont Chateau is perched amid Bavarian-styled buildings just outside of Whistler Village, with magnificent views and close proximity to ski lifts. The interior decor is typical of a Fairmont, but with a mountain-esque twist — think crown molding meets exposed wooden beams and stone-tiled walls. The excellent Wildflower restaurant serves contemporary American fare, and the restaurants and bars in Whistler Village are a 15-minute walk away. The two eucalyptus steam rooms and multiple whirlpools make it easy for guests to warm up after a day in the snow.

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FOXNews.com: Murkowski again proposes renaming Mount McKinley

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Murkowski again proposes renaming Mount McKinley Jan 30th 2013, 15:00 JUNEAU, Alaska –  Alaska's senior senator has once again introduced legislation to rename Mount McKinley, Denali. Sen. Lisa Murkowski said in an interview Tuesday that Denali might not be the name that people in the Midwest recognize "but it has long been the name in really the place that matters, which is the state that this incredible mountain sits." "I have nothing against President McKinley whatsoever, but I would rather have this peak be called by the name it has gone by for centuries by Alaskans than a man who never set foot in our state," Murkowski said in a release. "This is the tallest mountain in North America and we deserve to have this Alaskan landmark bear an Alaskan name." Ohio is the birthplace of President William McKinley, and for years, members of that state's congressional delegation have filed measures or included language in bills to retain the name Mount McKinley. One such bill was introduced last week by Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Ohio, who said in a release Tuesday that the name must be retained "in order to honor the legacy of this great American President and patriot." Debate over a name change goes back decades. According to a National Park Service history, McKinley was the name bestowed on the peak by William Dickey in 1896, and it stuck because of his "'discovery' account" in a newspaper in 1897. Alaska Natives, Russians and American visitors had offered names of their own for the mountain over the years. The name Denali is an Athabascan, or Alaska Native tribe, word meaning "the high one." Mount McKinley is located in Denali National Park and Preserve. Murkowski, R-Alaska, introduced a version of her bill during the last Congress, and said she heard from people all over Alaska, thanking her for the effort. "This is important to Alaska and quite honestly, it's important to the Native people, it's important to all indigenous people that we respect and honor the names and traditions," she said in an interview. She said she expects some opposition from those who have only known the mountain as Mount McKinley but said that opposition might be softening. One of the most vocal opponents of a name change was Ohio U.S. Rep. Ralph Regula, who fought the idea through measures or language included in bills until his retirement in January 2009.

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FOXNews.com: Top 10 health resorts worldwide

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Top 10 health resorts worldwide Jan 30th 2013, 14:04 Many people let loose on vacation, then return from a trip filled with bar-hopping, belly-busting restaurant meals, drinks by the pool and decadent desserts with a higher weight and unhealthy habits. Why not visit a luxurious retreat where you can get healthy and learn to stay healthy? Instead of getting hangovers from too much wine, try meditating in Bali, learning yoga in New Zealand or even undergoing wine therapies in France. Check into one of Top 10 Health Resorts which all offer programs designed to cultivate a healthy lifestyle in unique, enjoyable and permanent ways. SWITZERLAND Wellness at the Backstage Hotel Vernissage Zermatt Wellness at Backstage Hotel goes back to the beginning — of the Old Testament, that is — with wellness treatments inspired by the biblical story of Genesis. Sitting in the shadow of the Matterhorn, this destination spa is nestled in the Swiss Alps, encircled by snowy peaks in winter. Artist/architect/hotelier Heinz Julen (a Zermatt native known for solo art exhibitions across Europe and unique architectural collaborations in Switzerland) has crafted a narrative spa experience with seven room treatments, called therapy cubes, themed after each of the days of Creation. The cubes marry visceral and visual components, utilizing lights, images, temperatures and sensations meant to cleanse and relax the body and soul. One method features video projections of images from the Hubble Space Telescope to promote the practice of "cosmic silence," supporting the ability to focus and resist distraction. A sauna replete with flora and aromatic lavender cleanses the respiratory tract and serves as a treatment for insomnia and pain in another room. Multiple spaces focus on the use of heat to inspire the feeling of well-being and are linked to the natural healing properties associated with sauna-induced detoxification, which can be used to treat joint pain, asthma, high blood pressure and anxiety. For more information, visit www.backstagehotel.ch INDIA Jiva Grande Spa at Vivanta by Taj Madikeri, Coorg It sits atop the hills of a subtropical rainforest in the southern state of Karnataka, India, and a five-hour drive from the major city of Bangalore gets you there. At an altitude of 4,000 feet, with treatments inspired by the rich, local culture, Jiva Grande Spa at Vivanta by Taj in Madikeri, Coorg is the ultimate in all-natural rejuvenation. The retreat's ancient Indian Ayurveda Panchakarma Therapy cleanses the body of toxins, while rejuvenating the spirit and relaxing the mind for long-term health and wellness. The spa's three floors boast breathtaking treetop views and private treatment suites, each with a steam room and shower. Jiva's signature offering, a wood-fired Gudda bath (hot water poured over the body in a picturesque outdoor pavilion), is a traditional healing practice in Coorg households. We suggest taking the full fourteen-day journey, which includes consultation with an Ayurvedic physician and rituals of yoga, chanting and meditation. For more information, visit www.vivantabytaj.com INDONESIA Golden Rock Retreat Bali Bali has long been a coveted destination for seekers of rejuvenation. Beyond its tourist enclaves, its landscapes are a balm, and it offers some exceptional healthy-living sanctuaries, among the best of which is Golden Rock. Set against a backdrop of traditional Balinese life on a beach overlooking a bay, this detox and healing center offers a wealth of programs to help you cleanse your body and reenergize your spirit. The purpose-built property with just four beachfront accommodations provides a soothing environment for yoga, meditation, fasting and more. Better yet, programs are integrated with local activities — you might take a sunrise outing with a fisherman or attend ceremonies in the nearby village of Amed. Along with cleanses (the retreat's specialty), guests will find infrared and herbal steam saunas, massage treatments and ozone, oxygen and bio-magnetic therapies. For more information, visit www.theretreatbali.com FRANCE Les Sources de Caudalie Martillac, Bordeaux A retreat for all of the senses, Les Sources de Caudalie blends unique vinotherapie treatments designed to slow the aging process with an idyllic locale among vineyards near Bordeaux. Rich in minerals, the property's warm underground spring water is great for soaking away what ails you. Wraps and massages use grape extracts called polyphenols, which strengthen blood vessels and enhance micro-circulation, while slimming programs combine techniques that break down cellulite with special dietary menus and varietal treatments such as a Cabernet scrub or Merlot wrap. The spa boasts antioxidant-based "cures" recommended for two days or more; these curative treatments promote natural beauty, slimming and energizing, and post-pregnancy health and fitness. Because the benefits of grape extract aren't just skin deep, you're also invited to savor the fruits of the vine with tasting courses at The Cellar. For more information, visit www.sources-caudalie.com MEXICO Rancho La Puerta Tecate, Baja California Considered to be the granddaddy of destination fitness resorts and spas, Rancho La Puerta dates back to 1940. Just an hour's drive from San Diego, California, it feels a world apart, set on 3,000 acres that include a celebrated cooking school and miles of hiking trails through meadows and mountainsides. The idea here is to give you a base for healthy living habits once you return home, and you can get started with nearly any kind of activity imaginable: Pilates, tennis, bar method, cooking, dream interpretation ... you name it, you'll probably find it here. Depending on your needs, you might take a nutrition class focused on reducing stress or attend a session on sleeping well. Balancing this out are classic spa treatments and seasonal cuisine showcasing ingredients from the resort's organic farm. The one-week program hosts 125 guests at a time, with arrivals and departures on Saturdays. For more information, visit www.rancholapuerta.com NEW ZEALAND Pujjis Wellness Retreat Nelson, South Island Less than ten minutes from Nelson onNew Zealand's South Island, the Pujjis Wellness Retreat is run by Arvind Pujji. Pujji is an experienced and trained bodyworks practitioner and yoga teacher, and he uses his skills to provide calm,cleansing and comfort. With just three guest rooms, this property guarantees serenity and a personalized escape. Choose between a safe and detoxifying fasting retreat, or the luxury of carefully prepared nourishing meals. You can customize your stay with yoga sessions, massage and meditation, and even an organic juice fast. Or opt for no program whatsoever and simply laze in a hammock on the deck or enjoy long walks in the surrounding hills accompanied by the sound of the river rushing past. For more information, visit www.pujjis.co.nz THAILAND Kamalaya Koh Samui Na Muang, Koh Samui Situated on the island of Koh Samui, this wellness retreat and holistic spa enjoys a truly unique location, based around a cave temple once used by Buddhist monks for meditation. Kamalaya means "lotus realm," and you will find plenty of time to practice youryogalotus pose here. You can also unwind by exploring your surroundings — an idyllic lagoon, white sand beaches, cascading streams and tropical gardens. Customized treatments combine both Eastern and Western healing and include holistic medicine,spatherapies and programs for detoxification and fitness. The best part of your stay: no matter what you choose to do, each activity promises to leave you feeling refreshed, revived and ready to return to the rat race. For more information, visit www.kamalaya.com TURKEY Natur-Med Thermal Springs and Health Resort Davutlar, Aydin Anti-aging treatments, weight loss programs and pain relief — you will find all of this and more in a soothing environment on the Aegean Coast. Surrounded by pine and olive trees,Turkey's first health center offers magnetic field therapy for restoring damaged joints, muscles and nerves. Ozone therapy, blood pressure relaxation therapy and acupuncture are also available, and colon hydrotherapy is used as a preventative for dozens of disorders. All treatments are conducted under the supervision of a professional medical team. In addition, attention is paid to diet, as guests are guided away from unhealthy items such as red meat, and toward seafood, fruit, grains and vegetables. Down-time activities include yoga, facials and nature walks. For more information, visit www.natur-med.com.tr USA California Health & Longevity Institute Westlake Village, California Located in Westlake Village, northwest ofLos Angeles, this world-class wellness facility is a leader in what's known as science-based lifestyle rejuvenation. After a certified lifestyle consultant helps you create a personalized health strategy for accomplishing your goals, you'll be advised by a team of experts — physicians, licensed dieticians, exercise physiologists, fitness trainers, stress management experts, therapists and healthy-living chefs. The institute includes a complete medicalclinicwith a full range of diagnostic testing and medical assessments. Adding a level of high-end luxury is the adjacentFour Seasons Hotel Westlake Village, California, which has partnered with the institute to offer combined services at its 40,000-square-foot spa. For more information, visitwww.chli.com USA Canyon Ranch Miami Beach Miami Beach, Florida This Miami Beach addition to the Canyon Ranch stable blends spectacular ocean views and lavish accommodations with a 70,000-square-foot health and wellness facility. The range of pampering and rejuvenating activities is seemingly unlimited, from decadent massages and facials to a European-style thermal suite with a rooftop hydro-spa, experiential rains room and herbal laconium. Energetic endeavors include Pilates and even rock climbing at the indoor fitness center overlooking the Atlantic. Wellness services range from private consultations or workshops in stress management, disease prevention, weight loss and smoking cessation to classes on healthy cooking and nutrition. If you want sun, sand and serenity while you treat yourself to a health-enhancing escape, this is definitely the place to be. For more information, visit www.canyonranch.com MORE ON GAYOT.com More Info and Photos of the Top 10 Health Resorts More of the World's Best Health Resorts Top 10 Yoga Retreats Top 10 Destination Spas in the U.S. The World's Best Spas

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FOXNews.com: Historical society unveils Leon Russell collection

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Historical society unveils Leon Russell collection Jan 30th 2013, 12:33 TULSA, Okla. –  The Master of Space and Time could soon have his own museum. The Oklahoma Historical Society announced Tuesday it had acquired a collection of more than 4,500 items connected to legendary musician and native Oklahoman Leon Russell that are intended for a planned pop culture museum in Tulsa. The donated collection features thousands of photos, more than 1,300 audio recordings, 100 video recordings and old concert programs, posters and tickets, among other things. But the display is contingent on the Legislature passing a $42.5 million bond issue to build the so-called OKPOP Museum in downtown Tulsa. The 70-year-old Russell — with his trademark long white hair and scraggly white beard, thick sunglasses and cowboy hat — appeared on stage at a news conference that announced the collection to a standing ovation, walking slowly and aided by a cane. Russell's responsible for helping pioneer the Tulsa Sound and worked with musicians ranging from Frank Sinatra to Elton John. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011. Along the way, the funky and flamboyant "Master of Space and Time" title stuck. "I usually got arrested in this area and now I get a museum?" Russell quipped. "Who knew? And now the good people of Oklahoma want to build a magnificent museum to honor me and others like me. God is good, amen and amen." The museum, which has been in the planning stages for several years, will be a 75,000-square-foot, four story building dedicated to Oklahoma artists and their impact on popular culture. Bond proposals, especially for museums, have faced fierce resistance from a growing group of conservative lawmakers opposed to the idea of adding to state debt. Last year, a proposed $20 million bond issue to fund the museum narrowly passed the Senate before getting derailed in the House. It'll likely be the same this year in the House, where Republicans now enjoy a 72-29 advantage. But Democrats also have said they will refuse to support any bond issue. But supporters of the museum gathered at Tuesday's news conference said they were confident they would have support from lawmakers who realize the economic and social importance the museum could have in northeastern Oklahoma and the entire state. "This is not just a Tulsa museum; this is not just a historical society museum," said Bob Blackburn, executive director of the state's historical society. "This will represent the creativity across the state." Mike Neal, president and CEO of the Tulsa Regional Chamber, said 700 jobs would be created over the four years it would take to build the museum. He also said museum and parking garage would generate $3.7 million in sales tax alone. Tulsa Mayor Dewey Bartlett said Russell's music put Tulsa on the map. "You gave us relevancy at the time, Leon, when we didn't have any as far as a music scene," Bartlett said. ____ Capitol Correspondent Sean Murphy in Oklahoma City contributed to this report.

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FOXNews.com: Timbuktu, ancient seat of Islamic learning

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Timbuktu, ancient seat of Islamic learning Jan 30th 2013, 13:30 SEVARE, Mali –  Timbuktu, the fabled desert city where retreating Muslim extremists destroyed ancient manuscripts, was a center of Islamic learning hundreds of years before Columbus landed in the Americas. It is not known how many of the priceless documents were destroyed by al Qaida-linked fighters who set ablaze a state-of-the-art library built with South African funding to conserve the brittle, camel-hide bound manuscripts from the harshness of the Sahara Desert climate and preserve them so researchers can study them. News of the destruction came Monday from the mayor of Timbuktu. With its Islamic treasures and centuries-old mud-walled buildings including an iconic mosque, Timbuktu is a U.N.-designated World Heritage Site. The damage caused by the fleeing Islamists was limited, but irreplaceable treasures were lost. Most of the manuscripts, which are as many as 900 years old, were gathered between the 1980s and 2000 from all over Mali for the Ahmed Baba Institute for Higher Learning and Islamic Research, which moved into its new home in 2009. The library held about 30,000 manuscripts of which only about one third had been catalogued, according to its Web site. The world may never know what it has lost. The manuscripts cover subjects ranging from science, astrology and medicine to history, theology, grammar and geography. All are in Arabic script, in the Arabic language and African languages. They date back to the late 12th century, the start of a 300-year golden age for Timbuktu as a spiritual and intellectual capital for the propagation of Islam on the continent. Michael Covitt, chairman of the Malian Manuscript Foundation, called them "the most important find since the Dead Sea Scrolls." Tens of thousands more manuscripts — no one knows how many — were kept at other libraries and private homes in Timbuktu. Some are believed to have been secreted against the Islamist fighters, who began their desecration of the city by systematically razing the 15th-century mausoleums of several Sufi saints in July. Among the tombs they destroyed is that of Sidi Mahmoudou, a saint who died in 955, according to a UNESCO website. The International Criminal Court at The Hague has described the destruction of Timbuktu's heritage as a possible war crime. Timbuktu has been attacked and conquered in the past, most recently in 1591 by Moroccan troops who sacked the city and burned libraries. But the city recovered and gained fame as a place where people from different races and creeds could live together harmoniously. Even before Europeans landed in the Americas, Timbuktu had a population of 30,000. The nomadic Tuareg tribe first set up their camel-skin and palm-mat tents there in the dry season, attracted by its location where the Niger River flows toward the southern brink of the Sahara Desert, prompting some to call it the point where "the camel meets the canoe." The tents gave way to sun-dried terracotta-colored mud brick buildings built in the Moorish style as traders, medical doctors, clerics, artists, poets and others settled there. The city is on an old caravan route where Arab traders brought salt and other goods that reached North Africa's Mediterranean shores and traded it in Timbuktu for gold and Islamic books. It served as a major crossroads between Africa's Arab north and black West Africa, bringing together black Africans, Berbers, Arabs and the Tuareg people that consider Timbuktu their town. Its dynamism has been overlooked by the English expression "from here to Timbuktu" — conjuring up an end-of-the-earth remoteness. Islamist extremists decimated tourism in 2011 when three Europeans were taken hostage from a Timbuktu restaurant in November that year, frightening away visitors. In April 2012, Tuareg nationalist rebels seized control of Timbuktu from government troops. A day later Islamist insurgents elbowed their way into the city. They banned music, insisted women cover themselves and began carrying out public executions and amputations. On Tuesday, Timbuktu was in control of French and Malian troops, including some 250 French paratroopers dropped from the sky. The extremists melted into the desert without firing a shot. Townspeople were jubilant at the city's liberation from intolerant Islamist extremists. ___ Faul reported from Johannesburg Online: www.tombouctoumanuscripts.org

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FOXNews.com: Twain then, us now, on Italian time travel trip

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Twain then, us now, on Italian time travel trip Jan 30th 2013, 13:30 FERRARA, Italy –  I came to Italy to test a French adage by way of an American writer, Mark Twain. "Plus ca change, plus c'est la meme chose." The more things change, the more they remain the same. The saying had been on my mind while traveling before, usually with a book from the past clutched in my hands. On a 1991 honeymoon in the Greek Cyclades with my pockets full of love and a 1964 Nagel's travel guide in my hands, the descriptions still fit some of the small fishing ports and dusty museums. But when I returned to Portugal's Algarve coastline a dozen years after I'd kept a holiday diary there, I found some parts transformed beyond recognition. Now came another test: travel through northern Italy with a copy of Twain's 1869 "The Innocents Abroad," his irreverent "record of a pleasure trip" to Paris, the Mediterranean and Jerusalem. Twain's humorous account of the great sights of Europe and the Holy Land was a best-seller in its day, but its mocking tone was a shocking departure from the era's solemn travelogues. Following Twain's entire itinerary would take far too big a chunk out of my holiday time. But, Milan, Florence and Venice, a mere fragment for Twain, was within my reach for a two-week vacation. I wondered how our modern cynicism would hold up against his. My family of four first headed to Milan, and much like Twain, we were drawn like a magnet to Milan's cathedral. "That forest of graceful needles, shimmering in the amber sunlight," the American writer wrote of the stiletto roof peaks, all topped with statues made of sheer grace. When Twain was there, the duomo (Italian cathedral) was still surrounded by "pygmy housetops," leaving it visible from within seven miles (11 kilometers) around to stand in awe of its white marble majesty. In 21st century Milan, the piazza in front of the Gothic building still offers a glimpse of the overall vista Twain and his American travelers must have had. But beyond, the boutiques for Giorgio Armani and umpteen fashion empires, business centers and a massive football stadium now crowd in one of the biggest cathedrals in the world. Where Twain saw the vastness of the countryside in the distance, the cathedral's rooftop now offers views of the new Porta Nuova business district — all sleek glass, cutting edges into the skyline much like the cathedral once did. Considering the cathedral was not even fully finished when Twain treaded the marble stairs, such changes might be obvious. But there were other contrasts and similarities Twain would have enjoyed. His account of a cathedral tour mocked the ghoulish relics and priceless treasures on display — two fingers of St. Paul's, a gem-covered corpse, candlesticks in silver and gold. Stepping outside today, he surely would have noted the contemporary gaudiness that affronts not just your eyes, but literally gets in your ears. Right across from the church, the Rinascente department store has a sun-splashed food court and bar on its top floor, where Krug Grand Cuvee champagne goes for €250 ($336) a bottle. Surely, classic European tours of yore offered similar conspicuous consumption, but to have the garish pop tunes waft across the street and through the Gothic arches while watching magnificence in stone, was a bit much to take. We thought of Twain in Florence, too, where he observed "how the fatigues and annoyances of travel fill one with bitter prejudices sometimes." Visiting last summer during peak tourist season, the throngs were endless, as were spray-painted human statues on each corner and street vendors selling every ilk of cheap thrills. The must-sell trinket of the moment was a ball that splashed flat on the floor only to magically reconstitute itself to a round shape. Twain would have skewered it, for sure. But while we could see and feel the fatigue Twain endured, we were wary of becoming what contemporary travelers recognize as the incessant whiner. Fortunately, even in Florence's high season, you can drift into the Bargello museum and see sublime art in soothing circumstances. Go in and around Cappella Brancacci and the Boboli gardens across the river and have a Renaissance calm wash over you. When we got to Venice, "afloat on the placid sea," as Twain put it, we discovered that current guidebooks, despite magnificent graphics and pictures, often could not match Twain's prose. As he fell under the city's spell, his sarcasm subsided: His complaint about the "caterwauling" of the gondolier on a "rusty old canoe" became an ode to the sight of marble reflected on glittering waves, "soft and dreamy and beautiful," as he took his readers from palace to gondola and back. During our visit to the Ducal Palace and its Bridge of Sighs by St. Mark's Square, it was as if Twain took us by the hand and led us through, much better than any modern audio tour could. Even his political analysis chillingly conjured the Doges' cruel rule and the hopeless fate of prisoners from centuries ago: "The doomed man was marched down a hall and out at a door-way into the covered Bridge of Sighs, through it and into the dungeon and unto his death." Later, at St. Mark's Cathedral, Twain re-emerged as a cynic, siding with my family against me in giving the building the thumbs down. I thought it awe-inspiring but Twain only found "unlovely Byzantine architecture" filled with "coarse mosaics." There was one thing left before our trip was over: Not to find another of Twain's places, but instead to experience the ambience that permeates the book, that of voluptuous luxury travel in a foreign land where riches may be enjoyed away from the masses. For all the author's notes about the squalor, filth and ruins he encountered on his tours, there were just as many descriptions of parties where champagne flowed. Being many rungs below the caste of the super-rich, sampling that lifestyle proved somewhat of a challenge in the 21st century. Yet we found it in between Florence and Venice when we landed for a day in the provincial town of Ferrara. It was off the beaten track, and had all the advantages that go with that. Our hotel, Annunziata, was as affordable as it was sumptuous, with by far the best breakfast bounty of local produce we ever found in Italy, and beyond. As it was, rock stars from the British band Kasabian were lounging on its terrace beneath the medieval Castello Estense, and were even up for a chat. A stone's throw away was the marble-clad duomo and several museums, with nary a tourist in sight. Off went the kids, Clara and Corneel, into the evening for Kasabian's open-air concert. My wife Reine and I lazed through the streets and a park before settling among the locals with prosecco to watch the sun turn a deeper shade of gold. Over an excellent yet simple pasta dinner served al fresco in an alley alongside the cathedral, we felt we had become Twain's "innocents abroad." Would he have mocked us, or joined us? We didn't care.

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FOXNews.com: Baby's first flight? Tips to help everyone cope

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Baby's first flight? Tips to help everyone cope Jan 30th 2013, 13:00 If you're bringing your baby home to meet the family for the first time this year, you're probably anxious about weathering that first flight. The truth is, most parents are surprised at how well their young babies do on flights, and many infants are content to let the gentle motion of the plane and the soothing hum of the engine lull them to sleep. Here are some tips to help you set yourself and baby up for a smooth flight. Bringing baby food and formula through security You can bring as much baby food or formula through the airport security checkpoint as you think you will need (you still need to remove it from your bag so that it can be seen by TSA agents,) but note that agents may open any containers over four ounces. My recommendation is to pack only containers that are 100 grams or smaller. Remember to bring along enough for your flight and what you'll need in transit from the airport to your final destination, then add a little more in case of flight delays. If you're bringing powdered formula, buy bottled water after security—the tap water on a plane is not considered safe to drink. Pack an extra shirt for you You probably already have a change of clothes for your son or daughter in your diaper bag, but what about you? Air pressure changes can wreak havoc on little tummies, and I've learned from experience that it's no fun to step off a plane with a child perfectly changed while mom is dressed in clothing fashioned from a baby blanket. Pack light and organized It's tempting to throw everything you might possibly need into your carry-on bag, but nothing wears you out faster than lugging that extra weight through the airport or having to search through a mountain of gear to find the one thing you do need. Instead, try to choose items that do double duty (your down jacket, for instance, might also work as a blanket) and keep things organized in purpose-specific pouches or pockets. Remember that your child will probably be fascinated with the airplane and the people nearby, so you might not need to pack as many toys as usual. Talk your way through the tricky parts Getting through security and onto a plane can be disorienting, especially if mom and dad seem frazzled. Even if your child isn't old enough to understand all the details, it's worth narrating what is happening; just hearing the sound of your voice can be soothing for everyone. Feed during takeoff and landing The air pressure changes during takeoff and landing can hurt babies' ears. If your child is awake, either nursing or a bottle will help clear ears, and may just put your infant to sleep in your arms. If your little one isn't hungry, a pacifier or even sucking on a finger works well, too. A paid seat is safest Though regulations allow children under age two to sit on a parent's lap, the safest place for a baby is buckled into a car seat in his or her own airplane seat. If another ticket isn't within your budget, consider reserving a window and aisle spott near the back of the plane. With any luck, that middle seat will remain open, and you can install the seat. If not, you'll gate check the car seat just before takeoff. For more tips on flying with kids go to CondeNastTraveler.com More from Condé Nast Traveler 300+ breathtaking hotel views 100 top cruise ships in the world Great cities for architecture lovers The world's best places to stay The most luxurious first class cabins

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FOXNews.com: Losing weight, one chew at a time

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Losing weight, one chew at a time Jan 30th 2013, 10:00 Remember what your mother always used to say?  "Chew you're food!"  Turns out she was right. If you're trying to lose weight, this simple rule of chewing your food 40 times before you swallow not only works, but has some significant science behind it and a luxury resort built up around it. It sounds too good to be true. And yet, when I spent a week at the picturesque Viva Mayr med-spa clinic in Maria Wörth, Austria, I left several pounds lighter and also with an appreciation for Viva's core principle: improve digestion and improve your life. Mayr devotees believe that disease starts in the gut, with ailments ranging from eczema to certain cancers caused by a backlog of toxins. Digest better, the theory goes, and you'll reduce intestinal inflammation and make your body more alkaline; not only will you lose weight, but you'll experience a bevy of other benefits, including healthier organs, brighter skin, and reduced disease such as obesity and diabetes. While the Mayr Cure has been popular in Austria since its inception by Dr. Franz Mayr at the turn of last century, Viva Mayr's myriad five-star pleasures make it the most enjoyable place to detox through the initial shock. Viva's guests come from all walks of life—during my stay, guests included European CEOs, an oil billionaire from Qatar and his wife and several London businessmen, but also 20something gal-pals from Hong Kong, a couple from New York and many unassuming individuals. Located on the banks of Lake Wörthersee, a verdant corner of northern Austria recalling The Sound of Music with its weeping willows and jagged Alpine mountain views, Viva Mayr is Zen and pristine: half medical clinic, half luxury spa. Viva boasts numerous doctors, a full spa, a beauty salon, a gourmet restaurant, and private docks for sunning and swimming while immersing yourself in the cure. It's the kind of place where guests wander around in robes and slippers.  Bikes are available for riding to the next town, and weekly hikes in nearby Italy and Slovenia are led by the staff. Viva's spa is particularly expansive, featuring numerous steam rooms, saunas, color and heat therapy rooms and a gorgeous indoor pool overlooking the lake—but unlike the nearby pampering palace Schlosshotel Velden, the daily treatments guests receive at Viva all have one goal in mind: to stimulate digestion. Austrian Austerity Weight-conscious people are used to gimmicky diets: grapefruit, cayenne pepper, kale smoothies—and at first glance, the Mayr Cure certainly qualifies. Before visiting the clinic, I pored through material online, my eyes widening with each click. "We're expected to chew how many times? That's all for dinner? You drink what every morning?!" Visiting Viva in person, however, was revolutionary. Under the watchful care of Dr. Nadia Aichbichler, my food intolerances were tested; my abdomen was massaged to stimulate digestion; daily Epsom salts were ingested to promote—ahem—cleansing; and my lifestyle habits were discussed to find long-term, sustainable solutions. As a beauty and travel-writer, wine plays a significant role in both my social and work life, so I was relieved to discover that, after the initial week long Mayr detox, wine is allowed. Phew! Back home a month later, when I'd lost and easily kept off 15 pounds thanks to the simple diet modifications I learned at Viva, I forever joined its legion of devotees. With the benefit of hindsight, I can genuinely say that my week at the Viva clinic changed my life. Get The Viva Mayr Diet by Dr. Harald Stossier and Helena Frith Powell and mimic your own Viva experience at home with these steps: Viva's Core Principles Chew 40 times: Just like your grandmother always told you, it's important to slow down while eating: not only will you digest better but you'll get fuller faster and, eventually, start eating less. 40 full chews is darn near impossible at first bite. But full and proper chewing is so important to the Mayr Cure that, upon arrival, you're booked in for "chewing training": a half-hour session with spelt bread so dense that it takes a full minute to work down each mouthful. "The Mayr diet is eat slowly, chew well and take time for your food," says Viva's founder and director Dr. Harald Stossier. "You will automatically eat less if you chew well." After a lifetime of wolfing down my food, on Day 1 it's nearly impossible for me to last more than 15 chews. But by the last day of my program, my fellow diners were marveling at my slowness and asking for tips. I repeated Dr. Stossier's advice: think of chewing as a meditation. I think thin, therefore I am. No water immediately before, after or during meals: The importance of water is drilled into our collective heads, so following the Mayr Cure's directive to abstain from water while eating—as well as 20 minutes before and 20 minutes after meals—is difficult but important. "If you drink a lot of water with your meals, you dilute the saliva," says Dr. Stossier, explaining that this hinders the all-important digestive process. I imagined this would extend to alcohol, too, so was surprised when Dr. Stossier explained that, because your body needs to process the alcohol, it's fair game. "Alcohol isn't like water: it's liquid food. Your body needs to process it, so if you like to drink a glass of wine or a beer with your meal, enjoy it." Why, thank you, Dr. Stossier; I believe I will. No raw after 4pm: According to Dr. Stossier, your body's digestive system is raring to go in the morning…but by evening, the processes slow down. Raw foods are harder to digest, and when your system is sluggish, the foods will putrify in your intestines, becoming toxic. "Our energy is not the same in the evening," says Dr. Stossier. "You need energy to digest all that food, otherwise it creates fermentation and putrification." While the Viva Mayr diet stresses vegetables and healthy, hormone-free meats, it's better, says Dr. Stossier, to have a few bites of a gourmet hamburger at dinner than a late, large salad. Mind officially blown. Eat large breakfasts, small dinners: The maxim that Dr. Stossier is fond of repeating is "Breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, dine like a pauper." It takes some mental shifting to make breakfast my biggest meal of the day: despite hearing for years that it's important, in the past I've been a strictly-coffee-til-noon girl. No longer. In Viva's lakefront dining hall, my breakfasts are indeed royal: smoked salmon, avocado, soft boiled eggs and spelt bread dipped in linseed oil. Lunch is thankfully normal: a sandwich, a salad, or a piece of fish with a small side of brown rice. But dinner? Oh, boy. This is where things get tricky. For the first week at Viva, as your body cleanses, you're restricted to a cup of soup, a few mini boiled potatoes (or the ubiquitous spelt bread), and herbal tea. It seems Draconian, but I also discover that it sets up a deliciously vicious cycle: while I go to bed hungry the first few nights, it means that I overload on breakfast. After a few days, I'm barely hungry at dinner time and—what do you know?!—a small cup of soup with a little of that surprisingly-addictive spelt bread suffices. "Our goal is you should be satisfied, you should enjoy it, and it's important to realize that the eating habit has more influence than the amount itself," says Dr. Stossier. "Most of our clients come back once a year for a tune up, because they realize that the system works." Count me in, Viva. I'll be returning soon.

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FOXNews.com: Top 10 hotels in Mexico

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Top 10 hotels in Mexico Jan 29th 2013, 15:30 Thoughts of visiting Mexico conjure up its beautiful beaches, lively cities, archaeological finds, and natural wonders. Whether you want to hike a rainforest or work on your tan, why not stay at the best places south of the border? Our Top 10 Hotels in Mexico are all properties we recommend for their luxurious accommodations and top service. LA PAZ CostaBaja Resort & Spa La Paz, Baja California Sur Nature meets luxury at CostaBaja Resort & Spa, situated on 550 acres of environmentally protected coastal lands just outside of La Paz. The resort offers opportunities for whale watching, yoga retreats and sailing — it boasts a double-basin marina with 250 slips. Those who haven't yet found their sea legs will enjoy the comprehensive health spa and Gary Player-designed golf course. Guest rooms are appointed in dark, rich colors to contrast with the vibrant natural world just outside the window, and include private, furnished balconies with views of the marina, the surrounding mountains or the Sea of Cortez. Nearby La Paz is bustling with activity, offering guests a chance to embark on a sea kayaking trip, camping, diving, fishing or a journey into the rich culture of the "City of Peace." The resort also has condos for sale overlooking the Sea of Cortez. For more information, visit www.costabajaresort.com CABO SAN LUCAS Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Resort & Spa Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur Positioned on a secluded bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Resort & Spa merges Old-World elegance and contemporary luxury. Just ten minutes from downtown Cabo San Lucas, the resort's prime location provides convenient access to local shops, authentic restaurants and lively cantinas and nightclubs. An abundance of activities is found nearby, from whale-watching tours to swimming with dolphins to snorkeling, scuba diving and horseback riding along the beach. The resort's 635 junior and executive suites — all featuring private, oceanfront balconies or patios — boast feather-top beds, marble baths and even a pillow menu. Guests can also enjoy privileged access to the resort's majestic outdoor infinity pool and steamy hot tubs, state-of-the-art fitness center and a private beach for sunbathing (alas, there's no swimming allowed in these waters). Whether you're in the mood for a romantic candlelight dinner at La Frida or a signature pizza by the pool, the resort offers dining options for every taste, any time. For quality relaxation and royal pampering, treat yourself to a Royal Mexican Deep Lime Body Scrub at The Armonia Spa at Sunset Beach. For more information, visit www.pueblobonitosunsetbeach.com CABO SAN LUCAS Esperanza Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur When only a classic will do, it's time to head to Esperanza. A longstanding favorite with travelers who want more than just the latest fad, this resort uses Mexico's gorgeous coastline to create a new standard of luxury. Al fresco living is a hallmark here, with expansive sea views from every room. Even the junior suites have infinity edge hot tubs for dolphin watching, and the villas treat guests to the experience of sumptuous residential living. Although the activities and nightlife of Cabo are nearby, Esperanza is a destination unto itself, with a stunning spa, beachfront infinity pool, fine art gallery and a collection of restaurants that showcase ingredients from local farmers and fishermen. For more information, visit www.esperanzaresort.com SAN JOSE DEL CABO Cabo Azul Resort Los Cabos, Baja California Sur From fire sculptures to waterscapes, this all-villa resort strives for a mood that is at one with the elements. Natural details are incorporated throughout, and if Gilligan and his pals had had access to a European designer, the décor at Cabo Azul would have been the result. Villas are ultrachic, and even the smallest one-bedroom accommodations measure in at more than 1,000 square feet. The resort's twelve oceanfront acres include a stretch of white sand beach, a dramatic pool with fire-dancing platforms, PAZ Body & Mind Spa and Javier's Restaurant serving regionally influenced cuisine. Nearby activities range from the Dolphin Encounter to shopping in Cabo San Lucas. For more information, visit www.caboazulresort.com GUERRERO Las Brisas Acapulco Acapulco, Guerrero As a pink-and-white jeep whisks you from your hillside casita to the private La Concha beach club or perhaps El Bellavista restaurant, you will know why guests return over and over to Las Brisas Acapulco. This 40-acre hillside hideaway boasts breathtaking views of Acapulco's scenic bay and to-die-for sunsets, as well as unparalleled seclusion and access to the area's famed attractions, including the La Quebrada cliff divers. Greet each morning with a leisurely Brisas Breakfast — a thermos of coffee, sweet rolls and fresh fruit delivered right to your door — and then relish theopportunityto relax at your own pace, lingering on your private terrace or heading out to explore one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. For more information, visit www.brisashotelonline.com/acapulco PLAYA DEL CARMEN Rosewood Mayakoba Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo It's no surprise that high-profile jet setters such asPaulMcCartneyand the members of U2 have chosen to retreat to this elegant resort. Showcasing modern, sexy lines that pay tribute to the Mayan pyramids, the architecture is stunning. Natural materials such as Yucatan limestone complement the setting — a meandering lagoon with a mangrove forest running through it. Depending on which of the 128 suites you choose, you will find a rooftop sundeck, terrace, plunge pool, private boat dock and/or outdoor shower. The resort's 1,600-acre size makes it ideal for the eighteen-hole, Greg Norman-designed golf course that runs along its mile-long white sand beach. For privacy nonpareil, Sense spa sits on its own island in the middle of the lagoon. For more information, visit www.rosewoodmayakoba.com MEXICO CITY Las Alcobas Mexico City, Mexico D.F. This intimate design hotel fits right in with its trendy Polanco district location. Offering just 35 accommodations, including a penthouse overlooking the sophisticated neighborhood, the former 1950sapartmentbuilding is a chic alternative to Mexico City's large luxury hotels. Despite its diminutive size, though, it's big on amenities. Two on-site restaurants serve contemporary Mexican flavors and playful variations on classic cantina dishes, and Aurora Spa crafts treatments inspired by local healing rituals. With wraparound terraces, the suites are to be coveted, while standard guest rooms appeal with custom-made rosewood furniture, Bose surround-sound home theater systems and mini-spa bathrooms featuring rain showers, whirlpools and steam jets. For more information, visit www.lasalcobas.com SAN MIGUEL DEL ALLENDE Casa de Sierra Nevada San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato Featuring a hotel and a cooking school in the heart of historic San Miguel de Allende, Casa de Sierra Nevada offers a feast for all of the senses. Stepping through the stone arches, guests will find leafy gardens, flowered courtyards and 22 suites spread out over five sixteenth-century colonial houses. The property is a National Trust Monument, and most rooms (with private patios or secluded entrances) carry on the architectural style of old San Miguel with Talavera tile baths, polished copper sinks and wood-burning fireplaces. A $5 million renovation brought Laja Spa, and while spa treatments are a highlight, the real draw here is the opportunity to take culinary classes in which students tour local markets and learn to create dishes based on regional ingredients. For more information, visit www.casadesierranevada.com IXTAPA Capella Ixtapa Resort and Spa Ixtapa, Guerrero Tapering down the side of a cliff on Mexico's Pacific Coast, Capella Ixtapa Resort and Spa brings to mind the classic towns of the Italian Riviera. Because of the way the property is laid out, every suite has a vast view of the ocean. The Ocean Front Penthouse Suites are the accommodation of choice, with private terraces and infinity plunge pools. Among three on-site restaurants, A Mares brings together the flavors of regional Mexico. Theluxuriousspa incorporates native herbs into its many treatments and caters to couples with romantic shared experiences. Among numerous activities are Capella Signature Tours, which focus on architecture, nature and even local education.For more information, visit www.capellaixtapa.com ZIHUATANEJO Amuleto Playa la Ropa, Guerrero Many of Mexico's luxury hotels are high-profile ... essentially, they're known for being known. But this little gem is a bit of a well-kept secret, which is why guests often return. With only five suites, it promises exclusivity. Better yet, each designer accommodation pairs a rustic look (stone, wood, thatch) with decadent little luxuries. Depending on your choice, you might find a private plunge pool or hidden hammock. What you won't find is the distraction of TVs and stereos. This place is all about tranquility. The wooden decks and infinity pool are perched 100 meters above the beach, ensuring dramatic views from every corner, including the restaurant. Meals here are a private affair, as al fresco tables are covered with white cloths each night and guests are invited to dine as if in a private home. For more information, visit www.amuleto.net   MORE ON GAYOT.com More Info and Photos of the Top 10 Mexican Hotels More Top Mexican Hotels Best Hotels in Mexico City Best Hotels in Los Cabos, Mexico Travel Guide to Mexico

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