Every time I visit the award-winning Canyon Ranch in Lenox (www.canyonranch.com) – and I’m thrilled to say I’ve have been here at least six times – I learn something.  The last time I was here, I attended a lecture by Canyon Ranch Medical Director, Dr Mark Liponis, co-author of Ultra-Prevention: The 6-Week Plan That Will Make You Healthy For Life, and I went home with lots of great tips. Among them:  Don’t eat white foods, with the exception of cottage cheese and cauliflower.  If you have kids, at the very least pack them a healthy lunch on school days.  And get a daily dose of flaxseed and folic acid. In fact, I was so impressed with these recommendations that I included them in my Amazon.com bestselling book, The Globetrotter’s Get-Gorgeous Guide. (www.GorgeousGlobetrotter.com)

Well, I was recently back in the saddle at the ranch, with more to learn and more to share, especially for readers of this magazine, Exec Digital, who are high-end executives, and probably dealing with mountains of stress.  Let me put it this way.  Being at Canyon Ranch, with all that it offers – educational lectures, cooking demos, spirituality sessions, stress management programs, fitness classes, medical assessments, and health and nutrition recommendations – is like being at a university.  I call it Healthy U.™

Canyon Ranch is also a place to find your inner joy, by focusing on your wholeness, and your health.  Says co-founder Enid Zuckerman: Our mission is to teach guests how to live healthfully and joyfully.”

Hunter vs. Farmer – Which Are You?

One of the biggest things I learned from Dr. Liponis is that he believes that most people are a hunter or a farmer, which totally affects your diet – and your weight – and your health.  Farmers, like me, tend to have subcutaneous fat, narrow waists but thicker thighs in proportion to their frames, as well as low blood sugar. As a result, we need to satisfy ourselves with grains – even if it is just a bite of a granola bar when you feel famished between meals. (The made-from-scratch Trail Bars here, by the way, are 140 calories each, totally satisfying, and delicious). On the other hand, we farmers need to avoid fats, because consuming fats will eventually lead to obesity. So bring on the pasta and carbs and avoid the salad dressings, ice creams, and fried foods.

Dr Liponis Consultation

Hunters, at the other extreme, are carbohydrate-intolerant and need to avoid carbs and sugars at all costs.  Their blood sugar is typically very high, and so they need to eat more protein to bring their blood sugar down. Hunters tend to have visceral fat deep in their abdominal cavities, but very skinny legs.  Hunters do well eating eggs, fish and poultry. For more information, check out Dr. Liponis’s new book: The Hunter/Farmer Diet Solution (Hay House, $19.95). It will probably teach you things about your body you wouldn’t ordinarily know, and help you stay on track with your diet.

So I learned all that – and a lot more.  For example, Dr. Liponis noted that drinking caffeine can actually cut down on your cholesterol – provided you make your coffee in a brown filter. (With white filters, he says, you are drinking the bleach that makes the filter white.) Coffee contains cafestol, which is a dangerous compound, says Dr. Liponis, because it is a compound that actually elevates your cholesterol level.  “We encourage coffee,” he says, but make sure to filter out the cafestol.

Executive Decision

If you’re an executive, Canyon Ranch  is probably your kind of place –  and I have just the ticket to fill that order:  The four-night Executive Health Program package ($3,775). This comprehensive, integrative evaluation, which was created in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic, includes, among other things, a 75-minute comprehensive physical by a physician; consultations in nutrition, exercise, and healthy lifestyle; extensive diagnostic testing for LDL/HDL cholesterol, diabetes, bone density and lungs; and a binder filled with your test results and comprehensive recommendations. This is a cohesive, whole-person assessment of your health, and Canyon Ranch has all the experts – and expertise – to help you plan for a healthy future. Dr. Liponis says, “You might be someone who works on Wall Street, or knows everything about the arts, but chances are, you don’t know what you need to know about your health.”

You may also want to take advantage of Dr. Liponis daily recommendations.  He suggests 2,000 International Units of Vitamin D every day; 400 mg of DHA; and eating antioxidant-rich foods including sweet potatoes, red wine, and berries, and also including antioxidant spices such as turmeric, cloves and cinnamon.

Listen Up

Of course, one of the greatest benefits to staying at Canyon Ranch – besides, the food and spa treatments --  are the education, exercise and spirituality sessions.  These feature a wide variety of topics --  everything from Natural Approaches to Managing Stress, and The Art of Mindfulness, to Traditional Chinese Medicine, Cardio Tennis and Karaoke Yoga. However, my absolute favorite lectures are those by researcher and motivational speaker Jerry Posner, author of several books including Eternal Cosmic Wisdom at Bargain Basement Prices, found on Amazon.com.  Mr. Posner (http://www.jerryposner.com/about.htm) is a wise and witty lecturer, whose animated presentations on how to create miracles in your life, and “How To Make The Butterfly Effect Work For You,” are delightfully informative, instructional and entertaining.  Mr. Posner’s lectures are so fantastic that I would gladly pay admission to attend.  He also has great handouts that you can take home with you, so that you can put his methods into full force after your Canyon Ranch visit. For example, he distributes business-card size cards with helpful messages such as “I make my choices based on the outcomes I most desire,” and everyone would do well to remember this, every day, if you want to get what you want out of life. Mr. Posner, one of the most positive people I have ever met, is Canyon Ranch’s biggest asset.

And it goes without saying that there are tons of other upbeat offerings: daily classes to kick-start your exercise regime, including chair yoga, ballet barre, Berkshire Beat, Serious Cycle, and, because of its idyllic location in the Berkshires, many hikes and outdoor sports. The Ranch also offers free body-composition assessments (yes, featuring those dreaded body-fat calipers), which can inform you if you are at fitness, performance or basic-health level. I, for example, am at fitness level, but the technician advised that I increase my weights by just five pounds, when I strength-train three times a week, to boost my results even more.

More Than Fare

Of course, one of the greatest advantages that Canyon Ranch offers is its excellent, heart-healthy, low-calorie cuisine, which makes dining even more of a pleasure than it usually is anywhere else in the world.  (More joy – there’s that word again). The 315-calorie Southwest veggie burger, alone, is worth the trip: veggies, gluten-free oats, and pumpkin seeds on a whole wheat roll, which will fill you up but not out (and great for we farmers). Everything on the menu is listed with nutritional information including calories and fats, so you can make the wisest decisions for yourself possible. I dined, guiltlessly, on a wide variety of calorie-controlled foods including polenta; vanilla ice cream; pizza, and coconut macaroons, which all had the calories and fat kicked out of them. One revelation is the yummy 85-calorie Callebaut chocolate chip cookies, which were plentiful. Another astonishingly delicious menu item is the brussel sprout hash made with turkey bacon – it will make anyone want to eat tons and tons of this vegetable, it’s that scrumptious.  Canyon Ranch (which, when it started, advocated an 800-calorie daily diet) now offers a suggested 1,600-1,800 calorie daily regimen, which is noted by many physicians to be more food than most of us need (indeed, as I noted, Canyon Ranch itself, when it first opened more than 30 years ago, advocated a much lower daily calorie intake … how times change.)  If you want to learn how to do-it-yourself, there’s Lunch and Learn, a great daily cooking demonstration with inimitable Chef Billy Boudreau, which is as educational as it is enjoyable, with more tips and tricks than you can shake a stick of butter at. On the day that I attended, for example, Chef Boudreau taught us how to make, among other things, a simple pea-Greek-yogurt salad, which could easily be adorned with basil and mint; salmon; jams and vinegars; or pesto, while he also touted the benefits of canola oil.

Besides the restaurant, there is Café Tasse, an idyllic French bakery offering light fare, including the signature 140-calorie Trail Bars that everyone loves to scarf down (especially we farmers, between meals).  Not only can you have lunch here, but you can order a take-out meal for the day you are leaving.  The chicken-salad wraps are insanely delicious, as is the roasted pumpkin crunch.

Take Time For Treatments

Of course, no trip to Canyon Ranch would be complete without its intoxicating and posh pampering treatments, which are yet another highlight.  I had the best massage of my life by Kim, which was a simple Relaxation Massage, with an aromatherapy-add-on. I had requested a scalp massage to start, and Kim complied, easing my overworked brain into a deep state of peace.  It was the perfect choice for Goldilocks – not too hard, and not too light, with the perfect effleurage strokes in between.

Take time out to have a spa treatment

I also enjoyed a Vitamin C facial with Environ products (www.environ.co.za).  Not many spas that I’ve visited offer Environ products, and they are a treat. Environ skincare was created by a world-renowned plastic surgeon in South Africa, and the entire skincare line is distinctive because it incorporates a multi-pronged approach to the visible signs of aging, problem skin and photo damage. I stocked up on some of Environ’s wonderful products, including the delicious-smelling C-quence cleanser; the peptide-full C-quence toner; and the C-quence-1 Vitamin C serum that moisturizes and softens the appearance of fine lines. The Environ facial I had at Canyon Ranch include deep cleansing with a Clarisonic (a small appliance that I highly recommend for all travelers with jet-lagged complexions);  facial and scalp massage; seaweed masque; and application of hyaluronic acid.  The radiant results my skin received from the Environ facial spoke for themselves – I positively glowed.  Talk about complexion perfection!

How to make the most of your Canyon Ranch trip? When you book your stay, you’ll receive a huge catalog of treatments and options, as well as a listing of all the activities and lectures during the week of your stay, so you can prepare and plan to be entertained and enlightened. I would also recommend purchasing the handy dandy – and adorable --  book written by Canyon Ranch founder Mel Zuckerman, entitled Mel’s Tips for Healthy Living.

Here’s what he says, which I discovered in the booklet in my hotel room, all about the creation of Canyon Ranch. It’s all about joy.  Says Mr. Zuckerman: “So here’s my wish for you. Take charge of your health and well-being, turn back your biological clock and live with great joy for many years to come.”

So go, and find your joy.

Debbi Kickham is a spa-lover, an author, a devoted lover of her husband Bill Kickham, and a marketing/communications consultant in the Boston area.  Visit her website at www.Marketingauthor.com.

In a word, wow.

That pretty much sums up our experience at the exclusive St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort in Puerto Rico – the only five-diamond-rated resort in all of Puerto Rico. This exotic enclave – the top-of-the-line brand in the Starwood family –is an ideal escape for executives seeking some enchanted evening – and every day too.

Let’s start with the location. In the town of Rio Grande – about a half-hour’s drive from the airport – the luxurious St. Regis Bahia Beach is situated within lush El Yunque tropical rainforest, where you can hear the critters – especially the soothing vocalizations of tree frogs - all night long. (You’ll also see the resident large iguanas at the pool.) The elegant property is also located on a superb stretch of sand – a beach that goes on for two miles. In fact, the entire resort encompasses 483 acres – and you can easily lose yourself – in the best way possible here.

How Suite It Is

We stayed in an oceanfront suite – the best the resort offers – which is a one-bedroom apartment featuring a kitchenette with wet bar, pullout sofa for the kids in the living room, two bathrooms with full showers and a master suite with walk-in closet. Oh, and did we mention it also comes with not one but two butlers? (In other words, he was not our Juan and only.) Our wonderful primary butler, Juan Lopez, and his second-in-command, Carlos, were fantastic – as charming as they were professional. They easily spent an hour checking us into our suite, pointing out all of the amenities (and modern, touchpad light switches) so that we could rest and relax in comfort. Their enthusiastic signature phrase to us was always “Allow me” and “Not a problem.” At $1,200 per night, plus a $60 daily resort fee, this suite is as sweet as it gets. You can go outside for your rainshower – or just step into your bathroom shower, which is big enough to house your entire family (plus cousins). There’s a rainshower fixture the size of a salad plate, along with a hand-held, next to the deep, deep soaking tub. Juan and Carlos also delivered our French-press iced coffee daily at 5PM – just when we wanted it – along with the resort’s delicious, homemade chocolate-almond biscotti (which have won raves from guests).

All the top brands in the world are here – St. Regis – a prestige luxury brand if there ever was one, signifying one of the world’s best addresses -- along with a Robert Trent Jones Jr,. golf course, and a Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant, Fern. There’s also a Remede spa (more on that later). You may just find yourself so transported that you decide to invest in one of the upscale Residences here, so you can indulge in home sweet home with all of the hotel’s amenities. (Each residence starts at 6,000 square feet and includes three-car garage and separate maid’s quarters.)

The stunning bar, where you can relax after a day by the pool

This resort also has the distinction of being the only resort in the Caribbean that is an Audubon International Certified Gold Signature Sanctuary. In addition to the nearly 4.5 miles of nature trails (don’t forget your sneakers), there are two islands that act as bird sanctuaries, with areas for walking, biking and hiking.

But no place on the property tops the beach. We have to say that in all of our travels, we have never experienced such an extraordinary slice of sand. (Dr. Beach, are you listening?) For one thing, it is perfectly pristine, and completely unspoiled, with no structures or oceanfront buildings surrounding it. This means that you can enjoy the unobstructed view of coconut palms and blue sky. Along with everything else the St. Regis offers, their beach makes it worth the trip – and the price. We were there in early June (the rainy season) and there were few guests, so we really had the entire beach to ourselves. The pool is just as sybaritic, and we strongly suggest lunching at Seagrapes, the open-air restaurant the flanks the pool and beach. You’ll enjoy your gazpacho or turkey sandwich in an unparalleled atmosphere of luxury. In fact, the pool and beach area is so posh, you’ll wander around feeling like a Hollywood A-lister. Bring your tube from home – you’ll like nothing more than floating around the entire afternoon, whether in the Atlantic or the pool. Remember – vacationing here is one of the reasons why you put in all those hours in the office, right?

The pool is so posh you will feel like a Hollywood A-lister

The Boathouse on the property is one of the most popular venues, offering bird-watching tours, and kayaking and walking tours. Also on property is something you shouldn’t miss – from March through August you can make arrangements to see the indigenous turtle population give birth to their hatchlings, under the mute orange lights outside. It is also worth noting that the St. Regis has its own nursery where it grows spices and herbs such as rosemary, mint, cilantro, cherry tomatoes and passion fruit, says Gina Morales, the resort’s luxury marketing manager (who couldn’t have been nicer or more helpful). The on-site hydroponic garden means that all guests who dine on property will definitely receive the complete farm-to-table touch.

Spa-Tacular Adventure

The Remede Spa is as world-class high-end as spas come. The sprawling oasis is half inside, half outside, so you can take advantage of the tropical surroundings. In fact, it is called the Spa Without Walls, because guests can schedule and enjoy any spa treatment anywhere on property – in your room, at the beach, or in a special nook you’ve happened upon – perhaps under the shade of a coconut palm? Deb enjoyed an Encanto rum massage ($185 for 60 minutes) made with the local rum brand, Don Q, and offered by Jose. Jose gave Deb exactly what she asked for – a light touch, along with a substantial scalp massage -- and in addition it comes with a foot scrub and also a delicious rum punch you can imbibe. Customized men’s facials as well as personalized body scrubs made from the spa’s organic herbal bar, are also available, as are many other treatments. The spa boutique area offers prestige brands such as Bliss, Babor, Voluspa and Omorovicza of Hungary. Before your treatment make sure to work off some calories in the gym, filled with Technogym equipment and cardio theater. And if you feel like it – are you celebrating a birthday or anniversary? – your butler can arrange a special in-room romantic bath complete with rose petals and champagne, faster than you can say, “Veuve Clicquot.”

Plantation House Room

One of the over-the-top highlights of your stay here is to dine at Fern, the excellent restaurant created by one of the world’s best chefs, Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Give yourselves at least two and a half hours to savor all the delicacies that Jean-Georges is famous for. Start with a ginger margarita that’s rimmed with ginger salt and features fresh ginger. Gianluca, the maître d’ and sommelier, also recommended the braised and grilled octopus, which is a house specialty. After a delightful amuse bouche of Caribbean fruits, Debbi enjoyed her favorite dish of the evening: steamed shrimp served in greens and a champagne dressing. She could eat that delicacy every day of her life, it was that delicious. We also tried the mushroom pizza (soul-satisfying) and the beet salad served with hazelnuts and Greek yogurt (wonderful). For entrees, Deb recommends the roasted grouper served with amazing herb-aromatic black beans that should be paired with the ginger rice. Bill was won over by his chicken that was topped with a crunchy Special K-crust. For dessert, we both scarfed down (in a New York minute) the excellent, warm Ghirardelli chocolate lava cake served with Tahitian vanilla ice cream. (Wherever we travel in the world, we try the warm chocolate lava cakes, because they are typically roll-your-eyes-back-in-your-head delicious), and this one was no different. (Jean-Georges’ molten chocolate cake is a Food and Wine magazine classic.) We recommend pairing this sweet sensation with some Moscato d’Asti or Vin Doux naturel, Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise dessert wines. Prepare to pay about $200 total for such a meal (without alcohol) although there are also tasting menus paired with wine for $34 each. Cheers!

About the Author

Debbi Kickham is the author of The Globetrotter’s Get-Gorgeous Guide: Diet and Beauty Secrets of Travel and Beauty Pros, Traveling Executives and Celebrity Travelers. www.GorgeousGlobetrotter.com. Her book achieved Number One on Amazon.com in the “Honeymoon Travel Guide” category.

Follow these instructions and thou shalt have the best cruise of your life on the heavenly ships of Seabourn, voted by Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards in 2012, as being the World’s Best Small-Ship Cruise line. Seabourn is as good as cruising gets, offering all-suite accommodations, all-inclusive complimentary premium wine and alcohol; and small intimate ships with no tipping required.  We recently sailed on an 18-day Christmas cruise on the 450-passenger Seabourn Quest through the Caribbean; it was nothing short of terrific, thanks to an Oscar-worthy Christmas show we would have gladly paid admission for; gingerbread houses galore in the lobby and public areas of the ship; and gourmet turkey dinners worthy of St. Nick.  Three out of three wise men would agree that Seabourn is the best! 

Of course, those familiar with the upscale cruise industry know that Seabourn is famous for its intuitive service. Let’s face it, on Seabourn, clairvoyance of passenger desires is part of the staff’s job description. So grab your partner – and follow our “insider’s guide” to make your cruise even more fun and fabulous. Every hard-working executive owes it to himself – or herself – to experience the luxury that is Seabourn.

1). Thou shalt dine a deux.

A major part of the cruise experience is about spending quality private time together.  Request a table-for-two in the main dining room or dine inside your suite, next to your verandah, where the sea and sky surround you.  For more intimacy, dine inside the lovely high-end dining venue known as Restaurant 2, which has no extra charge for a gastronomic dinner. The myriad little bites of deliciousness in this specialty dining venue can include seared beef with curried Vidalia onion rings, goat cheese panna cotta, and coconut and passion fruit gelato with almond foam.  Don’t forget to kiss and canoodle between courses, and remember -- on a cruise ship, desserts are supposed to be sinful.

2). Thou shalt spa.

Book the ultimate pampering through the onboard Elemis Spa: a sensuous couples’ massage. For even more decadence, reserve the private villa ($650 for four hours) that comes with bed, private sundeck, 75-minute hot-stone massage, special bath, and lunch. Or just take advantage of the complimentary, much-loved “Massage Moments” on the pool deck.

3).  Thou shalt be lazy.

Sleep late, relax by the pool, and order room service at 3AM. Every day is the proverbial “seventh day” when you should rest, together. For divine decadence, go to the Quest’s fifth-deck private pool area, which is a heavenly oasis apart from the main pool. Ask the sommelier for a delicious glass of complimentary dessert wine; nibble on exotic fruits; take the plunge; and thank the Heavens that you have arrived at this station in life.

4).  Thou shalt also be active.

Seabourn offers oceans of exercise options: an outdoor deck for jogging and fast-walking, indoor gym with cardio theater, free Kinesis and Pilates instruction, ballroom-dancing lessons, slow and disco dancing in a romantically-lit lounge, strolls on moonlit decks --  everything short of walking the plank. 

5). Thou shalt enjoy your suite.

The ship’s Oceanview suites (which we booked) measure 295 sq. feet and  feature a couch, dining area, small refrigerator, desk, a two-sink bathroom with separate tub and shower.  Fresh floral bouquets, fruit baskets, turndown chocolates, and fluffy robes and slippers are all provided. For even more room, book one of the larger suites on board.  The Verandah suites measure 365 sq. feet and feature a sliding door to your verandah, where two deck chairs await you.  The Penthouse suites, larger still at 534 sq. feet, feature a dining table for two to four people, and room dividers to allow for separate bedrooms. In addition to the glass slider to a verandah, this suite category adds two flat-screen TVs, in addition to a spacious bathroom with tub, shower and large vanity.  The ultimate suite on the ship is the Owner’s Suite, which, at 760 sq. feet and countered to occupy a corner of the ship, offers a full-length window and glass slider to a larger verandah, dining for four, a  separate bedroom, a guest bath, two flat-screen TVs, a pantry with wet bar, a  convertible sofa for one and even an in-suite whirlpool bath. On top of all this, complimentary internet/Wi-Fi service is provided to guests in the Owner’s Suite.

No matter what suite you’re in, here’s an attractive option:  Make arrangements for an in-suite dinner. Want something extra special such as foie gras – or skinless breast of chicken in tomato ragout or low-fat carrot cake?  Just tell the Executive Chef and give him at least 24 hours’ notice; you’ll be rewarded with the very best version of “Exactly What You Want.”   Continuing with Seabourn’s in-suite comforts, one of the newest cruise amenities is the blissful bed.  See Commandment Six.

6). Love thy sleep.

Seabourn offers sumptuous bedding, realizing that a good night’s sleep together, an afternoon nap, and spontaneous intimacy, are lusted-after luxuries. (This is a relatively new development on cruise ships, which have realized that they must follow in the footsteps of hotels that promise you sybaritic sleep in plush beds.) You’ll be spoiled by sleeping beauties:  Seabourn beds are prepared with award-winning mattresses made by the Eastbourn company in the Netherlands. Guests love them. Likewise, the linens are from a company called Hilden in England. They are high-thread-count, Egyptian cotton in a jacquard pattern and are smart, durable and very comfortable. Seabourn’s standard pillows are king-size down and feather pillows treated with a patented hypoallergenic treatment. Most guests, even those who have long believed they cannot abide down, have been thrilled with them, as they offer an ideal “snooze cruise.”

7). Thou shalt steal stolen moments.

On cruise ships, sweethearts can steal themselves away for unexpected pleasures and new discoveries, fore and aft. Forget the “shoulds” and let yourself go – to share educational lectures; shore excursions; classical music performances; board games and any number of belly laughs, when you least expect them. For the ultimate in ‘spectacular’ category, we couldn’t miss Seabourn’s famous “Caviar in the Surf” and its superlative beach barbecue on the private island at Half Moon Cay beach in the Bahamas.

We also did something unusual when, late one night, we tucked ourselves into the Card Room where there is a huge TV screen.  We dialed up a movie, laid back, covered ourselves with blankets, and even enjoyed popcorn – all in our private screening room. Steven Spielberg himself would have been envious!

You can even get married on board – at no extra charge.  Just tell Guest Services and they will make arrangements to have the Captain – or the onboard priest or rabbi – officiate at a special, complimentary marriage vow renewal ceremony, complete with special cake and champagne. (Most other cruise lines charge at least $2,500 for their vow renewals.)

8).  Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s Samsonite.

In other words, pack these must-have items for your romantic rendezvous: Elegant room spray in your favorite fragrance (I love Diptyque’s Violette); digital camera; and a travel diary to record daily adventures. Don’t forget your nicest outfits and best jewelry; dressing up for dinner is an experience to be savored. You’ll live happily ever after for the length of your cruise.  And don’t be surprised when Seabourn staffers go the extra mile. Here’s just one example from our Seabourn Files.  A prominent doctor and his wife were about to sail on the Seabourn Odyssey, when a brass button popped off of his navy-blue blazer. He rummaged around and sewed it back on --with turquoise thread! Upon arrival to their suite, the doctor’s wife noticed that the button was sewed on with the wrong colored thread, which the stewardess overheard.  Unbeknownst to the couple, the stewardess exited the suite with the blazer and returned 20 minutes later with the jacket button outfitted in navy-blue thread. This was such an unexpected, distinctive service that the doctor and his wife told that story for months! 

9). Thou shalt create surprises.

Request a special recipe  – a favorite cake, ice cream, or entree --  as a surprise. (We were thrilled when the Executive Chef prepared Nutella gelato just for us.) Arrange for milk and cookies – or hot fudge sundaes --  served to you, at the hot tub, at midnight.  If there’s a birthday or anniversary (such as the day you first met) to celebrate with champagne, all the better. Better yet, ask your stewardess to prepare a specialty Pure Pampering bubble bath, made with exclusive Molton Brown products in scents such as ginseng or gingerlily. Shipboard surprises can turn memories into magic, faster than you can say “starboard.”
 

10). Honor thy feelings.

It’s bound to happen, so just run with it.  Your cruise ends, and your loved one utters those three little words you long to hear: no, not “I love you,” but “Let’s book another!”  Translation: your Seabourn Cruise sailing was everything you thought it would be – and more.

For more information, contact www.Seabourn.com or call (866) 755-5619.

Smooth Rides From BostonCoach

To get to our destination in Fort Lauderdale, where we embarked on our Seabourn cruise, we had the great pleasure to be chauffeured to and from Boston’s Logan Airport by BostonCoach. It was a thrill, because BostonCoach does everything to make everyone feel like a VIP — even if you’re just an Average Joe.

For readers of Exec Digital Magazine, you’ll be pleased to know that BostonCoach has about 30 years of experience working with executives at Fortune 500 and Fortune 100 companies. BostonCoach and its luxury vehicles are the proverbial “well-oiled machine,” dealing with VIPs around the world in all industries, including business, sports, politics and entertainment. Luxury and reliability add to the first-class feeling of your trip. Your chauffeur does everything from opening doors for you, storing your luggage, to yes, holding signage with your name on it (including aliases for public figures who don’t otherwise want it advertised that they’re in town). 

All these not-so-little touches make a big difference — they actually can turn a mundane trip into one that you won’t forget. Chauffeurs must also undergo thorough background checks and safety training, so you can sit back, know that you’re in safe hands, enjoy the ride, and forget about everything else. This experience is not some “taxi ride” by some company you’ve never heard of, where you pray they will remember to pick you up.

Another reason why you’ll be so delighted? Confirmation communications — emails — are sent out immediately after you book, and you receive them within minutes. A second confirmation email is sent to you 24 hours before your trip. Yet one more is sent to you 20 minutes before you are picked up. These special communications eliminate any anxiety, trepidation or fear you have about your trip — always a major factor with the stress that everyone feels traveling these days.

“Our mission at BostonCoach is to reduce the anxiety travelers experience by offering a sanctuary on wheels,” says Larry Moulter, President and CEO of BostonCoach. “Once you’ve made your reservation with BostonCoach, we’ll make sure you’re safe, on-time and stress-free.”

Executives can book online at www.BostonCoach.com or by calling (800) 672-7676. BostonCoach has vehicles in more than 40 countries around the world, for globetrotters of every distinction.

BostonCoach is the vroooom at the top!

About the Authors:

Debbi K. Kickham is the author of the bestseller The Globetrotter’s Get-Gorgeous Guide (www.GorgeousGlobetrotter.com) and the CEO of Maxima Marketing, a marketing/communications firm in Westwood, Mass. (www.MarketingAuthor.com)

William D. Kickham, Esq., is a Boston trial attorney and legal commentator for such media as CourtTV and The New York Times.  (www.kickhamlegal.com.) When he’s not presenting cases in court, he writes about traveling the world with the love of his life, Debbi.

In keeping with the company’s slogan, “Sharing six generations of Aloha,” the event was hosted at the picturesque residence of Lois and Peter Nottage, Hogan’s grandparents. The Nottages and Tongg’s late grandfather Richard “Dickie” Tongg first became friends when they were schoolmates at Punahou School. This multi-generational friendship between DMC of Hawaii’s founding families informs the company’s approach to their signature experiences, leadership development and team building experiences.

Building a business on trusted connections has allowed Tongg to explore uniquely crafted activities and venues that are decidedly off the beaten path.

“Creating this business here, back home in Hawaii, has been very rewarding,” said Tongg, who greeted each guest with lei. “Our strength has been taking these ‘off the beaten path’ authentic adventures ­– the kind Ian and I grew up having – adding fantastic food, knowledgeable cultural interaction and amazing settings, to give our clients a really thoughtfully designed experience in Hawaii.”

Along with the website, DMC of Hawaii is also launching new signature leadership development and team-building experiences, all set within a culturally rich environment.  Hogan said, “This new role allows us to tap into the special relationships we already have within the local community to share genuine Aloha with our clients.”

Throughout the evening, gathered guests shared in a champagne toast, enjoyed words from company leaders and then sat down to a meal of Hawaiian curry together.  Covering the evening’s festivities was fashion and sports photographer C.J. Dewolf, a member of the Michael Voorhees team and the featured photographer of the highly anticipated Hawaii Polo Life Magazine.

About DMC of Hawaii

A member of the Hawaii Convention and Visitors Bureau, DMC of Hawaii is a full-service boutique destination management company with deeply rooted local connections and years of planning expertise.  The company offers best-in-class service for special events, custom tour programs, transportation and meeting support services to its corporate clientele. DMC of Hawaii’s custom tours and new team-building experiences have garnered interest from corporate incentive groups and medical conferences as well as leisure travelers.

Press Contact
Alisa Tongg

Founding Partner, Client Experience
DMC of Hawaii
Sharing Six Generations of Aloha

Alisa@dmcofhawaii.com
www.dmcofhawaii.com

570-369-3955 direct

Twitter: @DMCofHawaii

Image courtesy of CJ Dewolf Photography 2013 

By now we all have renewed faith in the underdog, as the Baltimore Ravens beat the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday with a final score of 34-31. Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco earned the coveted Most Valuable Player award, hurling the pigskin to score three touchdowns before halftime.

Sandy Hook elementary school students kicked off the event with a powerful and poignant rendition of “America the Beautiful” featuring American Idol finalist Jennifer Hudson, followed by Alicia Keys’ “Star Spangled Banner.” Beyoncé wowed during a high-energy halftime show, backed by a troop of dancers and her all-female band.

The much-anticipated Super Bowl commercials drew nearly as much pre-game buzz as the actual main event. Favorites quickly emerged, including the touching Budweiser ad, the cookie-versus-cream fight during the Oreos commercial and the demonic goat addicted to Doritos.

Super Bowl 2013 Highlights

A power outage rocked the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans shortly after the first half, leaving the stadium and viewing audience alike in a tizzy for over a half hour. The blackout was a not-so-subtle reminder that not even this monumental event is immune to hiccups.

Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl ran simultaneously, offering much-needed respite to a number of football-weary viewers. Sixty-three adorable pups took part in nine “games,” with individual performances drawing kudos for awards like first score of the game and MVP.

As a number of significant others secretly celebrate the passing of the Super Bowl as a much-needed break from the sport, others look excitedly towards the next year’s game, eagerly counting down the days until they can do it all again.

Photo used courtesy of Action Sports Photography/Shutterstock.com.

For coverage of the main event, the commercials and of course the puppy bowl, check in with Exec Digital tomorrow.  

A leader in the customization of high-end vehicles, Lexani Motorcars has recently lent its hand to upgrading one of Cadillac’s most popular models. The result is the highly-coveted Custom Cadillac Escalade ESV Luxury Coach.

Meticulous attention to detail and eye-catching, yet subtle, style is apparent in every facet of the vehicle. Available for purchase with an impressive range of amenities, the auto maker is also able to meet customized requests using the talent of a team of hand-picked craftsmen.

Lexani Motorcars: Escalade E1 Interior

“The Cadillac Escalade ESV ES1 from Lexani Motorcars offers a brilliant blend of technology, luxury, and artistry, to provide the ultimate traveling experience,” reads a statement released by Lexani. “The customization options allow clients to create their own ideal environments. Whether the vehicle is to be used for business, family, entertainment, security, or all of the above, the owner can rest assured that it will be unrivaled in every respect.”

A full list of available amenities include:

Interior

• European style premium leather 6-way power seats

• Multi user Wi-Fi 4G network capability

• Mac Mini computer with touchscreen monitor

• Two 10” monitor stations

• Samsung Blu-ray /DVD player

• Digital clock and temperature panel

• Custom luxury finish accents in burl wood

• Plush, high quality carpeting with real lambskin floor mats

• 1000-watt Alpine sound system

• Luxury center console with patented design and digital control panel

• 4 Luxury power seats

• Alcantara suede-lined headliner and cabin walls

• 1 cu ft. compact cooler

Exterior

• UV resistant tinted privacy glass

• Custom color-matched exterior accents

Optional

• Vehicle security/alarm system

• 24K gold plated custom accents

• Custom logo embroidered on headrests

• 22” Lexani wheel and tire package

• Video conferencing system

• Massage, heated seats

• Perimeter armor options

The customized Escalade runs for, on average, $209,000 USD. Sometimes it really is the little things that make everyday life bearable, and it looks like Lexani has nailed it this time.

“When I first received the product, I reviewed the list of ingredients and did not see any prohibited substances,” Singh, 49, said in a statement Wednesday at the Waste Management Phoenix Open. “I am absolutely shocked that deer antler spray may contain a banned substance and am angry that I have put myself in this position.”

Deer antler spray contains IGF-1, a growth hormone that stimulates muscle growth. S.W.A.T.S. says that its deer antler spray is harvested in New Zealand, then the IGF-1 Is frozen out and put in a sublingual spray that is administered sublingually, three sprays under the tongue. It is banned by the NCAA and every major pro league.

Sports Illustrated said PGA Tour officials warned golfers about S.W.A.T.S.’s deer antler product after Mark Calcavecchia and Ken Green endorsed the product in 2011. However, the Tour’s current testing methods don’t actually test for the hormones – which Sports Illustrated described as “natural and anabolic.”

S.W.A.T.S. was begun out of a gym by Christopher Key – resident infomercialesque salesman, according to Sports Illustrated – and owner-slash-ex-male-stripper-slash-ex-‘roid-dealer Mitch Ross. Along with the antler spray, these two are peddling hologram stickers, negatively charged water, light-beam therapy and more, and they’re doing it with buy-in from some names as big as Singh, including linebackers Shawne Merriman and Ray Lewis of the NFL and outfielder Johnny Damon of the MLB.

Little evidence supports that any of these outlandish “treatments” are actually doing anything, according to Sports Illustrated. Power Balance, a Company which just three years ago exploded in popularity among celebrities and athletes alike, was eventually driven to bankruptcy when the much-stricter Australian regulatory system shut down unsupported claims from the Company about its products' effects. Power Balance’s bracelets claimed an increase of up to 500 percent in strength, balance and flexibility – a never-proven statement.

Singh’s fate in the PGA still lies in the balance, as do the minds of any soul who may too easily fall into hype about wonder drugs, natural or not, which offer miraculous cures to common ailments of the human body.

Christian Louboutin has launched a new bespoke service, offering clients personalized shoe embroidery. The designer’s love for tattooing inspired the new service, which will allow clients to create their own wonderful designs with the help of a Christian Louboutin stylist. Initially, the service will be available in Paris, London, New York and Los Angeles from bespoke male boutiques or ‘tattoo parlors’.

In a press statement, Christian Louboutin said the inspiration behind the service started as an idea for a present for a friend.

“I made a pair of shoes for him embroidered with his tattoo. A lot of my friends have tattoos; I realized that it's not only just a part of pop culture but a bit of a map on someone's body, which says something about people. A part of their life, like an armor or a crest. Instead of carrying someone else's crest on a loafer, I thought it would be a modern armor — your own crest on your own shoe.”

Clients will be able to choose from a range of men’s styles, from the Louis sneaker to the elegant Henri loafer and the newly introduced The Nigel, while the customization on ladies’ shoes will be available in a choice of four classic styles: the Rollergirl flat, the Louis sneaker, the elegant Belle Ankle boot, and the Highness pump.

As part of the service, the client will be able to choose from a selection of fabrications and a diverse color palette, as well as three different embroidery techniques, Outline and Shine, a technique which uses a black and silver thread; Color, using a dynamic colored thread; and Color and Relief, using vibrant colored thread as well as fine bead work.

Requiring three months from the day of order to the finished product, the shoes will travel through the hands of artisans in Italy and India before finding their way to their owner’s feet. The price for the bespoke ‘tattoos’? Between $1,435 and €5,420.

To read more about the Wraith on Exec Digital and its launch on March 5 click here

After a rush through customs, a stressful check in and an early morning start, there is nothing like a good cup of tea to make everything seem all right again. But until now, that has not been an option; instead you are served with a weak, luke-warm cup of tea and a sachet of milk. Not anymore. British Airways and Twining tea have joined forces to bring the comfort of a proper cup of tea to the skies.

They have promised a ‘transformation’ of tea drinking in the air, after research confirmed that taste can be reduced by 30 percent when traveling at altitude.

“British Airways has decided to lead a campaign to improve tea in the air,” Kate Thornton, Head of Product and Service, said. British Airways serves 35 million cups of tea to its customers each year, so it's something they need to get right.

The new tea is a blend of Assam, Kenyan and high grown Ceylon tea, which Twinings describes as “a classic combination giving body, strength, flavor and color.”

“Water on-board an aircraft boils at around 89 degrees centigrade, not the ideal 100 degrees for making black tea,” Mike Wright, Twinings Senior Buyer, said. “The reduced air pressure and humidity affect the functioning of the taste buds, making things taste different.”

So next time you happen to be flying with BA, don’t be afraid to order a good old fashioned cuppa, chances are, it will taste just right.

Who knew it was such a science?

This year Exec Digital brings you the top 10 ingredients that are sure to heat things up in the kitchen and the bedroom this Valentine's Day.

#1 Lavender (yes, lavender is a food!)

Our favorite recipe is lavender crème brulee, the perfect way to end a romantic dinner for two. Two spoons anyone?

#2 Pomegranates

Some say the forbidden fruit of the Bible was not apple at all, but a pomegranate. Known for its rich vitamin and well being qualities, pomegranates are high up on our list – and they are delicious too. We love quinoa, herb and pomegranate salad.

#3 Oysters

Oysters are packed with zinc, which is proven to boost the libidos of both men and women, making the perfect appetizer this Valentine's Day. Oysters are best served raw and fresh and are delicious with a dash of whisky. 

#4 Vanilla

The scent of vanilla is supposed to tantalize the nostrils of men both young and old, making it a wonderful addition to our Valentine's Day list. A winning recipe for breakfast this February 14 has to be gingerbread pancakes with parma ham and maple syrup.

#5 Ginger

Ginger is known as an aphrodisiac because of its circulation boosting qualities, but it also has a wonderful fiery and tangy taste. At Exec, we love a ginger and chicken stir fry, just wonderful. 

#6 Honey

Honey is known as the nectar of Aphrodite, the Greek Goddess of sexual love and beauty. Its golden colors and delicious sweetness make it a sensual and indulgent treat this Valentine's Day. Perfect for drizzling over Greek yogurt.   

#7 Chocolate

Who doesn't love to receive chocolates on Valentine's Day? They are just pure indulgence and get the heart racing. Treat that special someone to a box of finest chocolates or make your own... even better!

#8 Figs

Figs are one of nature's most delicious treats and are full of vitality enriching vitamins. We love eating figs as they come, with a cheese board and a bottle of red wine, however you can also make some wonderful recipes, such as roasted figs with honey and ricotta. 

#9 Pine Nuts

The Roman poet, Ovid, included pine nuts in his list of aphrodisiacs owing to their high zinc content. Pine nuts are delicious when gentle roasted and sprinkled on salads. 

#10 Garlic

Garlic is perhaps the most unexpected contender on our list owing to its very strong smell, however it has the most incredible ability to stimulate the appetite and the senses, which make it a perfect addition to our Valentine's Day shopping list! 

Now that the cooking is prepared, Exec offers some Valentine's Day gift suggestions to make February 14 2013, the best one yet. 

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Dubai is well known for its extravagant and innovative architecture, but The Underwater Discus Hotel takes it to another level (literally). Billed as the world’s largest underwater hotel, the Discus is almost space age in its appearance and can plunge up to 10m underwater.

The hotel was designed by Polish firm Deep Ocean Technology and is split into two main parts, one of which constantly remains above the surface of the water.

The submersible part of the hotel will contain 21 hotel rooms as well as an underwater diving facility and a bar. Guests will be able to observe the underwater environment and its inhabitants, and can wake up to scenes of the reef and exotic wildlife floating past their windows.

“Special lighting system of the area around the room and the miniature underwater vehicles which can be operated from inside will allow you to take a closer look at even the most microscopic underwater creatures using macro photography,” says Deep Ocean Technology.

Guests on board however will be afforded a somewhat more private experience, with luxury amenities, comfortable accommodation and freshly prepared food. It is set to be a truly out-of-this world experience for travelers who enjoy a slightly more 'wacky' holiday experience. 

Is this the wackiest hotel in the world?

Rolls-Royce is playing the long game with its highly anticipated coupe, the Wraith and CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös has just ignited yet more anticipation after describing the model as “the most powerful Rolls-Royce that has ever played host to the famous Spirit of Ecstasy figurine.”

The Wraith is set to make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 5, but motoring enthusiasts have already begun speculating about what’s in store after Rolls-Royce released an image of its roof line, looking extremely different from its signature style.

“Rolls-Royce Wraith will draw superlatives when it is unveiled in Geneva,” says Müller-Ötvös, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “Expect the boldest design, the most dramatic performance and the most powerful Rolls-Royce that has ever played host to the famous Spirit of Ecstasy figurine.”

Bold Design, Dramatic Performance & Power

The Wraith will only be the third Rolls-Royce model, after the famous Phantom and its smaller cousin, the Ghost. The Phantom made a name for itself as a powerhouse, extracting 453 horsepower from its V-12 engine, setting the bar pretty high for the Wraith.

The brand has always been known for its stately, austere and rather serious image, so everybody has their fingers crossed that the Wraith will have all the gumption, class and power of the Phantom and the Ghost, but also a modern, slick and sexy new feel.

Roll on March, we can hardly wait to see the final new model. 

Read more about the BeoPlay A9 speakers on Exec Digital

For Him: A Lange & Söhne Tourbillion Wrist Watch

$367,623.00

A Lange & Söhne is the quiet king of horology and has been perfecting its art for hundreds of years. Its new collection Grand Lange 1, features the super stylish Tourbillon, perpetual calendar watch, which is not only understated, classic and modern, but also exceptionally clever. Keep it running and you won’t need to adjust the date until the year 2100. If your man appreciates master craftsmanship then this is a stunning watch for his collection.

For Her: Tiffany Filigree Heart Pendant With Key

$10,950.00

If you want to make a women feel special, Tiffany jewellery will never fail to impress. On Valentine's Day this year, make the lady in your life feel like a million dollars by treating her to the Tiffany Filigree Heart Pendant. Round, brilliant diamonds are set into 18k white gold, and the pendant has Tiffany inscribed on the back, the perfect way to signify your love.

For Him: Murdock Luxury Full Service (London)

$157.00

For the ultimate grooming experience, nothing can compete with the Murdock Luxury Full Service. This treatment will leave the man in your life feeling indulged and relaxed, and looking his very best, ready for a romantic evening out. This service includes a haircut with one of Murdock of London’s accomplished stylists, wet shave and a shoe polish or male manicure to finish.

For Her: Harrods Valentines Hamper

$235.00

Treat that special someone to a luxurious valentine hamper this year, full of sweet confectionery, rose wine, raspberry vodka liqueur and heart shaped tea bags. Everybody loves a little indulgence, especially on Valentine's Day.

For Both Of You: Romantic Getaways

Tired of the everyday hustle and bustle? Do you and your loved one sometimes feel like ships passing in the night? If so, the perfect way to spend Valentine's Day this year is in each other’s company. The ultimate gift this Valentine's Day is a romantic getaway for two.

Antigua Spa Retreat: Jumby Bay

From $12,180 per person for 7 nights, based on a couple sharing

Accessed only by boat, the secluded, car-free private-island hideaway of Jumby Bay, two miles off the coast of Antigua, offers the quintessential Caribbean experience. Reopened just before Christmas after a major overhaul, Jumby Bay and the adjoining Rosewood Spa offers its guests a totally relaxing and rejuvenating experience. The resort is a perfect choice for Valentine's Day, giving you the option to enjoy a Champagne picnic under the night sky, enjoy couples treatments in the spa and take cookery lessons together. (www.elegantresorts.co.uk) 

There is a new members-only-club in town called Auto Concierge and it will not only provide you with 24-hour access to a luxury private clubhouse, private changing rooms, and a serving bar, which is available for business meetings and social gatherings, it will also look after your finest cars. It’s the only members club for devoted car collectors.

Brainchild of CEO Scott Elrod, the members-only vehicle storage center and private club opened its first location in a 15,000 square-foot facility in West LA. Chosen for its wealthy location and its close proximity to Santa Monica Airport and LAX, the club is convenient for locals wishing to use it and close enough to the airport for international clients.

Membership includes routine mechanical checks and access to Rstrada—a performance and tuning shop for classic, luxury and super automobiles that is located next door. Members have 24-hour access to their vehicles, and can request to have their vehicles delivered to a specific location by Auto Concierge staff.

Auto Concierge has also installed the most advanced security software, which is running and monitored around the clock; members can even remotely view a live video feed of their vehicles. To gain access to the club, there is a monthly car fee of $850.00 ($400 for each additional vehicle, depending on the level of service), a relatively small price to pay for complete peace of mind and to protect your pride and joy. 

Bang & Olufsen hits the nail on the head every time it launches a new product, and the BeoPlay A9 speakers create no exception. Designed by Øivind Alexander Slaatto, the BeoPlay speakers are so beautifully crafted that you want to keep them on display like a piece of artwork, rather than hide them away in the corner.

Attention To Detail

The speaker itself is one large disk, held on a tripod of wooden legs and it looks as fab from the back as it does from the front, you can also hang it on the wall. Every detail has been considered and the finest materials have been used. Part of the design, is its lack of buttons and controls. To turn on the speakers, and adjust the volume, simply swipe your hand along the top of the speaker - it's minimalism at its best.

Just Add Music

The A9 is a complete stereo system in one, so won’t require extra amplifiers, speakers or cables, which could ruin the look. All you need is a phone, a tablet or a music player that streams music through Apple Airplay or the open streaming standard DLNA.

And when you're buying a speaker, looks are important, but so too is the sound quality. Rest assured, the BeoPlay A9 boasts incredible, clear and crisp sound quality and adjusts to its settings to make sure the sound is projected perfectly.

How Its Made

Wondering how much the BeoPlay A9 will set you back? For $2,699.00 you can experience the A9 in your own home. For more information, visit the Bang & Olufsen website. 

Fairmont President’s Club guests will be treated to complimentary rides in the BMW 750i Sedan and may choose to be chauffeured for a range of activities.

"BMW is happy to expand its partnership with Fairmont and I am confident that guests who take advantage of this service will enjoy spending as much time in our vehicles as they do in their rooms at the luxurious Fairmont properties," Vice President of Marketing, BMW of North America Dan Creed said in a released statement. "I hope that our presence serves to enhance each guest's overall experience."

The partnership was originally founded in 2009, and has utilized the BMW 7 Series Sedan and BMW X5 to service Fairmont locations in Canada.

"Expanding our chauffeured car service with a respected partner like BMW was an easy decision," said Brian Richardson, Vice President of Brand Marketing & Communications at Fairmont. "It's a benefit that our frequent guests truly value and it allows us to expand on our focus of enhancing the stay experience and ensuring Fairmont guests have an opportunity to explore and connect with the destination."

Enrollment for the President’s Club is free and comes with a range of special benefits and privileges, including expedited check-in and check-out, access to exclusive vacation offerings, a members-only reservation line and complimentary high-speed, wireless Internet.

A midnight blue convertible 250 GT LWB California Spider has sold at auction for a staggering $8.3million. The Ferrari, which was one of only 50 ever made, sparked a bidding war at the Gooding & Company auction house in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The car had just three previous owners and was lovingly restored to its former glory in 2012, subsequently scooping a platinum trophy and a set of almost perfect scores when it was shown off at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and the American Ferrari Club Meet.

The model, certified as genuine by the Ferrari Classiche Department, features rare covered headlights, and a tan leather interior.

In June last year, a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO made for race driver Stirling Moss was sold to US car collector Craig McCaw for a reported £22m. Could this be a sign that vintage sports cars are a sound investment for the future? Scoop the right model and it could be worth its weight in gold.