FEATURE
The Art of All Inclusive
Zen Quiet
Floating peacefully at the edge of the infinity “Zen Pool” overlooking the indigo Indian Ocean – this tranquil environment envelopes me and a question enters my head, “Where am I?”
Lounging on white spa deck cushions in a velvet soft terry cloth robe while munching decadently on exotic fruit and sipping an individually blended tea after the most relaxing Ayurvedic massage of my life, I wonder confused again, “Where am I?”
Dining romantically at sunset a la carte on a deck perched over the Indian Ocean on a balmy evening while consuming delectable French cuisine al fresco, I find myself asking once again, “Wait a minute, WHERE AM I?”
The surprising answer to my repeated questions is Club Med. In fact, the answer, more accurately, is the new Club Med. And not just a new Club Med resort, but a new Club Med brand – one that appeals to a more upscale, sophisticated demographic. Exclusive service, luxury accommodation, prestigious ambience. My destination au current is La Plantation d’Albion which epitomises this new Club Med brand with its first 5 trident property on the beautiful island of Mauritius. Albion has secured the prime location on the West coast of this gorgeous island country between sea and mountains creating an elegant property fit for a 5 star client. Club Med enthusiasts rest assured that Albion still offers nightly entertainment and socialization retaining the overall Club Med authenticity. But isn’t it nice to have a Zen Pool?:)
WORLDWIDE CLUB MED VILLAGES
Experience the Exceptional
“Club Med Resorts that surround you in refinement in the settings, dining and activities – a new concept of luxury in a relaxed atmosphere.”
La Plantation d’Albion
MAURITIUS
Albion has raised the bar for a new standard of Club Med accommodation and service. Tooted as “paradise between the heavens and the Indian Ocean,” this prestigious newly opened Mauritius property holds the highest rating for all CM resorts – 5 tridents. Significantly more refined and elegant than other CM properties, Albion will appeal to a sophisticated, worldly clientele seeking peace and tranquillity by day and a more upscale version of entertainment by night. Albion and their other 5 trident property, Marrakech le Riad, represent Club Med’s evolution to a more upmarket brand. Be sure to luxuriate in Albion’s Cinq Mondes Spa which rivals any 5 star resort worldwide. (Albion’s new villas and chalets to open here soon!)
No Children’s Club but welcomes children of any age.
Marrakech le Riad
MOROCCO
Club Med’s second 5 trident property glitters in exotic Morocco. Fit for a prince, every comfort imaginable exists at this oasis – lounge in your decadent room each with a fireplace, private terrace and/or garden, relax by the elegant piano bar, unwind in the library or sample spicy dishes at La Palmaraie restaurant.
No Children’s Club but welcomes children of any age.
Kani
MALDIVES
Private romantic island exclusivity awaits you in the Maldives archipelago of Kanifinolhu – Club Med Kani. Bathed in turquoise waters, this island paradise offers 75 ‘Suites on Stilts’ – your own personal overwater bungalow hovering over the lagoon. Accommodation is ideal for honeymooners – this getaway has been recently renovated so that you may never want to leave your home over the water. If you venture out, water activities are the obvious highlight with an abundance of choices including snorkelling, scuba diving, sailing and kayaking.
No Children’s Club but welcomes children from 2 years.
Feel Renewed
“Club Med Villages that cultivate the art of taking care of yourself. Spa, massages, well-being…All in an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity.”
Opio en Provence
FRANCE
In the picture-perfect rural landscape of Provence, the Valbonne plateau in the hills above Cannes reveals a Provencal village nestled amongst the olive groves and pine forests. This Club Med is genuinely French in architecture and accommodation with winding cobblestone streets and shaded squares constituting the “village.” Tranquillity is emphasised here and activities revolve around wine and cheese tasting, nearby golf and relaxing at that Spa. Be sure to try the Turkish bath.
Family Village with Kid’s Clubs from 4 months.
Trancoso
BRAZIL
700 km south of Salvador, Trancoso is located on the rugged Atlantic coastline of Bahia, Brazil. Discovered by a Portuguese sailor in 1500, Trancoso remains in its authentic, pure state. The village itself is tucked away in a coconut grove on a cliff top away from the tourist routes. The natural Brazilian feel is abound as the place is teeming with wildlife including multicoloured parrots. The chef is superb and the resort has been awarded the prestigious “Table coup de Coeur” status and on offer is exquisite low-fat cuisine to suit all tastes.
Family Village with Kid’s Clubs from 4 years.
Da Balaia
PORTUGAL
In the far south of Portugal, Da Balaia stands on an ochre cliff overlooking a white sandy beach only a steep staircase from the resort. Focus on well-being as you are caressed by the sea breeze and the blue ocean. Unwind by the spectacular geometrically zigzagged pool atop the cliff as woody scents of parasol pines and eucalyptus lull you into a state of reverie. A resort known for golfers, family and Spa enthusiasts – come to relax and restore your sense of harmony and well-being.
Family Village with Kid’s Clubs from 4 months to 3 years.
Discover New Cultures
“Club Med Resorts at the heart of local culture encouraging discovery in a multicultural atmosphere."
Bora Bora
FRENCH POLYNESIA
Adapting to the slow rhythm of the Southern Seas won’t be a hardship at Club Med Bora Bora. Facing the islands of Ralatea and Tahaa, the property’s lagoon exemplifies the South Pacific dream stereotype – sapphire-coloured water, teaming tropical fish, swaying coconut palms and white sandy beaches. Watch the sun set here and the dream becomes a reality. Tip: Pre-book an ocean view room. Also, try to master Polynesian dishes at the newly offered cooking school.
No Children’s Clubs but welcomes children of any age.
Beldi
TURKEY
The latest hotspot in Europe, Turkey will awaken your spirit. South of Antalya, Beldi is nestled amongst the Turkish Riviera. Running along the entire shore of the resort, the resort’s beach is typical European pebbles lined with white umbrellas – bring your thongs! Explore the coastline further south of the Taurus Mountains and discover isolated bays interspersed with ancient ruins. During your stay, be sure to attend the resorts’ ‘conferences’ about the country’s history, habits and customs.
Family Village welcoming children of all ages with Kid’s Clubs from 2 years.
Les Almadies
SENEGAL
On the coast of Africa, a mere 20 minutes from Dakar, Les Almadies boasts the location of the most advanced headland point on the continent. Absorb the cultures’ riches by taking African dancing lessons, eating local cuisine at the two restaurants (one specialty option) or through art appreciation of the decor. With bright, multicoloured decoration and wooden sculptures and masks abound, the African experience literally envelopes you. For a true taste of Senegal’s culture beyond the resort, CM offers accompanied mountain biking “discovery” outings from 8 to 18 kilometres in length. Cycle your way to the village of Yoff N’Gor, the school of Ouakam, or the local fishing harbour.
Family Village welcoming children of all ages with Kid’s Clubs from 11 years.
Enjoy Your Passion for Sports
“Club Med Resorts devoted to sports, where novices to experts can try exciting new experiences in a dynamic and stimulating atmosphere.”
Gregolimano
GREECE
Waterskiing enthusiasts look no further – this is the resort for you. Club Med Gregolimano on the island of Evia offers a Championship Academy for water skiing and wakeboarding in the blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Tennis can also be enjoyed at a high-level, as training sessions for parents and children are available. The resort itself is a dazzling white structure a mere feet from the water/beach with mountains rising directly behind. After a hard day of water skiing and tennis, families can congregate at the pool for a tell-all of the days’ sporty exploits.
Family Village with Kid’s Clubs from 4 years.
Sandpiper
FLORIDA, U.S.A.
Golf lovers, come to always-sunny Florida. Here the pleasure of golf is abundant and the competitive spirit dominates. In the heart of Florida between Miami and Orlando, Sandpiper Village stretches along the St. Lucie River and its lush wetlands. The weather is always warm and you can practice your swing endlessly in the Tennis Academy and Golf Academy. Tip: For a bit more freedom, book the Florida Suite with terrace and kitchen.
Family Village with Kid’s Clubs from 4 months.
El Gouna Red Sea
EGYPT
El Gouna, situated on a 2 kilometre long beach at the foot of the Red Sea, is a dream world for divers and watersports fans. Reliable winds in the bay, 28 degree water and the crystal-clear shallow bay makes the area perfectly suited for windsurfers, kite surfing and sailing. In fact, this Club Med has an actual Wind Sports Academy. Protected coral in the bay allows for excellent scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities as well. Be sure to explore Luxor and Cairo on day trips.
No Children’s Clubs but welcomes children of any age.
Taste of Everything
“Club Med Resorts where all the family can enjoy sports, take it easy or explore, together or alone in a warm, friendly atmosphere.”
Djerba la Douce
TUNISIA
Bake under the incessant Mediterranean sun on the island of Djerba at this Club Med offering a little bit of everything. White washed bungalows with flowered patios contrast the eternal blue sky and evoke a very Greek feel. Although the range of delights at Djerba la Douce is plentiful, this village has a dream setting and weather for tennis players and sailors in particular. If you’d like to venture beyond the water and courts, you can take their 2 day excursion in the Sahara or a ½ day trip to the famed Zarzis market.
Family Village with Kid’s Clubs from 4 months.
Kamarina
SICILY, ITALY
Bellisimo Italia! On the southwest coast of Sicily, welcome to the land of Italian charm – steep alleyways, bougainvilla-filled squares, olive trees galore. Discover the Sicilian version of pasta’s pleasures and work it off rollerblading, playing tennis or sailing on the Mediterranean. If you are looking for more Italian style exercise, try floating in the resorts’ pool – the largest of all the Club Meds. We recommend taking a day trip to Taormina which is considered the loveliest resort town in Sicily.
Family Village with Kid’s Clubs from 2 years.
Les Boucaniers
MARTINIQUE, FRENCH WEST INDIES
Since its 1969 opening, Les Boucaniers has retained an authentic Creole spirit in this idyllic spot in the southeastern corner of Martinique. Chill out Caribbean style in your bungalow hidden within a tropical garden beside the golden sandy beach in the Bay of Le Marin. This resort offers a range of activities and distractions from beach volleyball to jet skiing to Caribbean cuisine to Club Med evening entertainment. Adjust to the slow Caribbean time and you’ll never want to leave.
No Children’s Clubs but welcomes children of all ages.
SKI VILLAGES
22 ski villages in the world’s largest ski domains – France, Switzerland, Italy and now, newly renovated Sahoro, Japan..
Sahoro
JAPAN
Newly renovated Sahoro Ski Village enjoys the optimal micro-climate to ensure continual snow fall for an intense skiing experience for beginners and advanced skiers alike. For beginners, take your time meandering down the picturesque powdery slopes or seek expert advice to improve your skill with a variety of ski and snowboard courses. For advanced skiers, if you’d like a challenge beyond Night Skiing and Black Diamond runs, the tree skiing is superb here. This resort is an excellent alternative for Australians wanting the ultimate ski holiday without the long-haul flight to America or Europe. Tip: After a long day of hitting the slopes, be sure to unwind in the traditional Japanese hot baths.
Family Resort welcoming children of all ages.
Villars-sur-Ollon
SWITZERLAND
The setting here is straight out of a snow fairytale. In the heart of the Swiss Alps, Villars-sur-Ollon was created as one of the premier resorts in Europe and helped launch the fashion for winter sports during the Roaring Twenties. Accordingly the hotel has classic 1920’s rich style and exudes an air of aristocracy. Take a stroll to nearby Lake Geneva, tackle exquisitely beautiful alpine skiing or simply relax by the new heated outdoor swimming pool with arguably the best south-facing view in the Alps.
Family Village with Kid’s Clubs from 4 months.
Peisey-Vallandry
FRANCE
At 1600 metres altitude and tucked away in the Tarentaise Valley, this Club Med village embodies the charm of the Savoie region. Using traditional materials yet contemporary in design, your accommodation will be sleek with wooden beams and floor to ceiling windows to gaze out at the snow-covered fir trees. Take advantage of the surroundings with torchlight visits to old villages, cross-country skiing and dog sledding. At the foot of the slopes and in the centre of the Paradiski domain, this resort creates an atmosphere conducive to skiers of all levels. Winner of the Hotel Grand Prix at the 2006 Hospitality Awards.
Family Resort with Kid’s Clubs from 4 years.
CLUB MED 2: CRUISE NEWS
Imagine all the benefits of a Club Med resort experience but afloat! Cruise all-inclusive, Club Med style aboard the Club Med 2, a magnificent 187-metre sailing ship with its majestic five masts. Choose from a Mediterranean or Caribbean cruise depending upon the season. With the ship’s two gourmet restaurants, nautical hall for sports enthusiasts and Club Med Spa, there will be no shortage of options to occupy your time aboard. We suggest booking one of the six Suites with a view of the waves or splurge and book the Ship Owner’s Suite in the bow of the yacht. Excursions are available at each stop.
