Travel news and deals.

The Most Luxurious Thing in a Three-Hour Radius
The Ritz-Carlton just opened its new Sanya branch on Hainan Island (the so-called “Hawaii of the East”). The new facility includes both suite and private villa accommodation complete with a host of big name shops, world-class restaurants and one of the biggest ESPA-brand spas in the region. They really take the luxury to the nth degree, what with personal butlers on hand for each villa. But for the sheer WTF factor, they even have a “Romanceologist” on site. A member of staff completely dedicated to getting you action? Anyway, Lagoon Rooms start at $2,553 per night, With Club Rooms and one-bedroom private villas priced at $2,999 and $5,132 respectively. Call +86 (898) 8898-8888 or visit www.ritzcarlton.com for reservations.

Cruise the Med
Hit the high seas on the MSC Poesia, the latest addition to renowned Italian cruise operator MSC’s fleet. The new vessel will operate eight-day cruises through Italy, Greece, Turkey and Croatia till the end of July, and 12-day cruises with additional stops in Crete, Libya and Malta come November. Fitted with two pool areas, four world-class restaurants, 10 bars, and a host of other entertainment facilities, it’s by far the most luxurious of the company’s liners. Prices for eight-day summer cruises start at $11,690, with prices for 12-day winter cruises starting at $13,716. Call MSC Cruises at 2230-6300 or visit www.msccruisesasia.com for reservations.

Phuket without the Grunge
Privacy in Phuket? Who’d have thunk? The Trisaria Resort, aptly situated on the island’s quieter northwestern coastline, offers just that. Not only is it a sanctuary of space and comfort, it also houses some of the best spa facilities in town. The brand new Ocean View Pool Spa Suites even include private treatment rooms. Rates start at $4,750 per night inclusive of four 30-minute spa treatments. Be sure to try the six-hands package, a three-therapist indulgence that includes everything from a foot scrub to a synchronized Thai-Swedish fusion massage. Call +66 7631-0100 or visit www.trisara.com for reservations.

Adventure Island
The idyllic Cocoa Island resort in the Maldives is offering two nights extra for guests who book for a five day stay, and four nights for guests who book for 10 days. The award-winning facility offers a host of exciting outdoor activities, from dolphin cruises to windsurfing, catamaran sailing and even scuba diving. When you’re finally ready to relax, take a moment in the tranquil mediation area or kick back in the on-site hydrotherapy pool. Suites average between $4,599 and $6,626, while villas range from $6,158 to $19,488. Call +960 441818 or email res@cocoaisland.como.bz for reservations.

Singapore Food Fest
Attention gastronomes! Prepare yourselves for the Singapore Food Festival, the island-state’s annual culinary event that fills the bellies of hungry Singaporeans every year. Starting June 29, it’s three days of live entertainment, competitions, and yes, a whole lot of great food. This year’s event is event set to feature a satay feast at the legendary Lau Pa Sat market every night till 3am. Visit www.singaporeair.com for details.