As we embark on 2010, let’s claim this to be the best year!  We are going to start this year off by putting travel at the top of the list (vacations and spending more time with the people we love)!!  Let’s go, 2010 travel...all the way turned up!

Fairmont Monte Carlo, Monaco -
Monaco is an ultra chic hideout where the international elite gather.  The Fairmont Monte Carlo is located in the heart of the Principality of Monaco in between the Mediterranean Sea and the legendary Casino of Monte Carlo.  Monaco is nestled between Italy and France on the Cote d’Azur, offering 300 days of sunshine throughout the year.  In addition to great food, beautiful sites and people; you can add in the thrill and excitement of The Grand Prix Formula One Experience (May 13-16, 2010).

W Retreat & Spa, Maldives –
Maldives is a private playground and a water activities wonderland located in the Indian Ocean (the North Ari Atoll of the Republic of Maldives).  The W Retreat and Spa ( a “play land” for adults)  has 78 individual bi-level beachfront and over the water retreats (with a private plunge pool, daybeds, surround sound music systems and the famous cloudlike W beds).  The hotspot, "15 Below" is the only night club in the Maldives and is located 15 steps under the water surface.  I see a “Diddy” takeover!

Singita Game Reserves –
Singita is recognized internationally as providing the best safari experience in Africa and a multi-award winner of virtually every hotel and travel award.  This is the perfect hideaway for couples seeking a romantic retreat.  Sweni Lodge is a “tree house” of steel, glass and wood with floor-to-ceiling glass walls revealing a picture book setting.  Guests have complete access to all the lodges’ amenities, including all meals, beverages and activities.  Take a walk on the wild side and enjoy night time game viewing with complimentary night vision glasses.  Modern conveniences (spa, gym, shops and gallery) in the heart of the wilderness. www.singita.com

Deer Valley Chalet –
Our last stop is for the brave at heart, the snow bunnies.  Stellar accommodations for the Sundance Film Festival (January 21-31st), Deer Valley Chalet is one of the hottest properties in ski country.  Deer Valley is for all the “bottle poppers” who want to feel “all the way turned up”!  Made for entertaining, the chalet offers guests 8,200 square feet of luxury with panoramic views of the lake, mountains and forest.  Also features 5 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, 7 stone fireplaces, gas fire pit, outdoor steam and sauna rooms, and wine cellar and ski-in/ski-out right out of the chalet! www.chaletdeervalley.com

Hope you enjoyed the “show”.  We have a lot to explore this year so I hope you are ready for an interesting journey in travel.  Be sure to check out next month’s issue of 5 Stars in the City.  We will journey to “where water meets wonder”, Atlantis the Palm, Dubai.  Plus a glimpse into the FIFA World Cup South Africa (Johannesburg, “the City of Gold” – June 11-July 11, 2010).

Until next time...the world awaits!

Peace & blessings, Kamala

Check out extra photos of these great places here.