Your dress, a work of art by Laureen Couture

All the brides who walk in Laureen Couture’s Miami studio have a dream: they all want the most beautiful princess dress for their big day. So, between her Miami and Paris studio, Laureen Cohen, Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Laureen Couture, works to make this dream a reality.

Trained in one of the best French business schools, Laureen Cohen worked in the wedding dress niche market of New York and China before launching Laureen Couture two years ago. What Laureen Couture offers is more than a mere dress, it’s a unique work of art. Choosing Laureen Couture is opting for the nonconventional. Laureen loves to take the fabrics and materials out of context. This gives elegant dresses but above all, unique dresses, dresses where different materials go so well together. Imagine a plastic and organza coat or a leather and Calais lace dress.

Everything starts with a first appointment and the making of a prototype. The bride can choose a model from the Laureen Couture collection or start from scratch. She will be advised by Laureen with respect to her morphology. Laureen, herself, was trained by an experienced seamstress who worked for years in the best French fashion houses like Chanel and Dior. The prototype will be identical to the dress, much like a cotton draft that will be sent to the Paris workshop once perfect. There, ‘little hands’ trained for years at Chanel and Dior, among others, will work on the dress. The structure of the dress is machine stitched, but everything else is done by hand. The dress then returns for a final fitting and finishing touches. Each dress takes at least 200 hours of work. But in general, it is rather 600 hours or 1,000 to 2,000 hours. It therefore takes between three to six months for a dress.

But no need to go to Paris to have access to French haute couture, French haute couture will come to you. Wherever you are in the world, Laureen will come to you. A Laureen Couture dress costs as from $ 25,000. There are no limits. Especially since some dresses include precious stones... While most of her clients can afford it, others save for a year or two or even more to pay for this work of art. Concierge Hotels offers you the best of the best.

Paradise Sun Hotel, Seychelles

The Seychelles archipelago is home to some of the most beautiful islands in the world. That’s why, so many tourists dream of one day vacationing there. Just imagine the white sandy beaches, for many (almost) deserted, turquoise sea and sun all year round… So, if ever you choose Seychelles as a destination for your next holiday, we recommend the Paradise Sun Hotel. This 4-star hotel on the island of Praslin, in the heart of the Indian Ocean, is a real gem where you can forget all your stress and spend, for sure, a memorable holiday.

This hotel is the perfect place for a honeymoon. Not only because of the setting, but also because it offers special rates for couples on honeymoon. Over and above these special rates, wedding packages are also available. They take care of everything, you just enjoy your special day.

For you to feel welcomed, the 80 rooms at the Paradise Sun Hotel offer quality service, enough to satisfy all your desires. Divided into two categories (Superior and Deluxe), these residences can accommodate a maximum of two people. They offer a private terrace and are equipped with a TV, minibar, international telephone, air conditioning and a fan, a shower, a hairdryer and a safe. A cot is available on request. The deluxe rooms additionally feature a living room and a sofa bed, ideal to accommodate a third person. Designed in a pure Creole spirit, with large terraces and an exotic-inspired decor, these rooms offer a quiet and relaxing space to its occupants.

Amongst the activities offered by the hotel to the clients; weekly cruises at sunset as well as non-motorized water sports such as snorkelling. A volley-ball field, ping pong tables and the pool are available to all. Children are required to be supervised by an adult while in the pool. Get some ‘me time’ in the hotel spa where you are offered personalized massages and relax in the yoga classes. Get away and enjoy excursions that will allow you to discover the beauty and culture of the neighboring islands. You can also dive into one of the most beautiful oceans in the world and discover a unique and exceptional fauna and flora.

St. Pierre restaurant welcomes you on the waterfront. You can eat lunch and diner there, your feet in the sand. It offers both local and international meals. Discover or rediscover dishes revisited the Seychelles way. The restaurant tries to offer mostly seafood and fish caught the same day. You can also taste new flavors of the world as every evening, the Chef takes you to a different country with his cuisine. The atmosphere remains creole though with traditional music and dance shows which you can watch while enjoying excellent exotic cocktails… 

So, what are you waiting to book your trip ?

Constance Lodge Tsarabanjina in Madagascar

Azure blue lagoon, sun shining (almost) throughout the year, sandy beaches and charming residences... This is what awaits you at Constance Lodge Tsarabanjina, a luxurious four star hotel, located on a small preserved island off the northeast coast of Madagascar. Looking for peace, need a change of scenery? Pack your bags and discover this idyllic paradise where serenity reigns.

You can choose between one of the 13 beach villas located on the north side of the island or 12 beach villas south of the island. Each villa with thatched roof offers a typical Malagasy decor. Surrounded by lush tropical plants, each of these 25 bungalows spread over 47m2 and has various equipment: fans, mini bar, safety box, kimono and private terrace with loungers for sunbathing. They can each accommodate two people. Two additional lounge chairs and a parasol are also available to sunbathe on the beach. 

The Tsarabanjina Constance, which is located quite near the capital Nosy Be, is the perfect place for who wants to dive in the clear waters of Madagascar and discover the underwater flora and fauna of the surroundings. You will discover coral reefs and unique marine plants in the world. The aquatic fauna is also abundant; you can expect encounters with turtles, crocodile-fish, balloon-fish and other giant stingrays and moray eels. For tourists who want to be "pampered", the spa doors are wide open... Immerse yourself in a zen universe where a selection of treatments and personalized massages are available. For those who are into sports, a wide variety of activities are also available : tennis volley, volleyball, bowling and sailing, amongst others.

The Tsarabanjina Restaurant offers local cuisine, Malagasy meals with a twist. Menus are largely composed of fresh seafood. The icing on the cake? You can enjoy meals with a stunning view of the landscape. In a relaxed atmosphere, enjoy delicious cocktails while watching a beautiful sunset. Note that there is no closing time scheduled. You have the possibility to stay as long as you like at night. The staff will close the bar only after the last customer has been waited on.

Enjoy our Special Offers with Concierge Hotel:

- Book 60 days before arrival for a minimum of 5 days and get 20% discount.

- Newlyweds, please take note that for honeymoons, if book for least 4 days, you get 20% discount.

FOUR SEASONS MALDIVES SURFING CHAMPIONS TROPHY 2015

Surfers, clear your calendars. The first three competitors for the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2015, the world’s most luxurious surfing event scheduled for August 3rd to 9th, have been announced. Headlining for the fifth consecutive year, freesurfer Dave "Rasta" Rastovich returns to defend his 2014 title. He is joined by the legend of the big waves, the intrepid Shane Dorian and the record-setting "surf goddess" Sofia Mulanovich. Three other world champions are yet to be announced.

This invitation-only event is organized in collaboration with luxury surf pioneers Tropicsurf (pros behind the Kuda Huraa courses and surf tours) and run from the 39 meters (128 feet) Four Seasons Explorer. Mark Winson, event coordinator for Tropicsurf, says: "Every year, I see the Champions Trophy concept rise to a higher level. With this reputation of perfect waves and the promise of high-level surfing, the elite of the surfing world comes banging on our door to be amongst one of six contenders."

The SCT is unique in many ways, from determining a surfer's heat based on their age to a test of skill across three different divisions: single-fin, twin-fin, and triple-fin thruster. This year Rastovich and his challengers Dorian and Mulanovich, amongst others, are competing for a USD 25,000 prize money.

Surf enthusiasts can book an all inclusive "Group Surf & Stay" (available from August 3rd to 9th, 2015 for a minimum booking of four rooms for five to seven nights). In addition to day packages for the competition, full board and transfers, the "Group Surf & Stay" includes five or seven days of intense surfing with professional guides from Tropicsurf and the chance to meet all the participants of the competition.

Dave "Rasta" Rastovich (AUS)(Omni)Present on the oceans as a "nipper" (young Australian lifeguard), Rasta has been surfing on a wave of victories for a while: he won the U / 16 World Grommet in Bali; the Pro Junior Burleigh Heads and the finals of the Billabong World Junior Championships. He has earned recognition as the first pro freesurfer in the world; winning the open class Molokai to Oahu Hawaiian inter-island paddle race and by setting up "Surfers for Cetaceans", dedicated to the conservation and protection of the marine life he shares oceans with. 

Speaking on his return to defend his 2014 SCT title Rasta said, "This is a surfing event that ensures everyone has a good time. We all progress our surfing together, go diving, enjoy amazing food and drinks, and get to retreat to luxury at the end of every surf and sun soaked day. I can’t believe I get to re-live the dream of being in this event again this year."

Shane Dorian (HAW)One of the best big wave surfers in the world, Dorian is from Kona, Hawaii. He started surfing at the age of five, turned pro at 17 and has since progressed in the world rankings before reaching the peak of his career, # 4, in 2000. Elaborating his own surfing style - chin up, down-turned hands and splayed fingers - Dorian was considered one of the best all-rounders when he retired from the tour in 2003. Far from quitting surfing the intrepid tuberider shifted his focus to big-wave surfing, winning six "Billabong XXL Big Wave Awards" between 2005 and 2013 and achieving the ultimate kudos for the near-impossible: setting a world record in 2011 by surfing a wave 57 feet high at "Jaws", in Maui.

" I can’t wait to get back to the Maldives,” Shane says. “I love it there and am excited to enjoy a week atFour Seasons with my wife Lisa. The chance to score some waves with five other invitees will be awesome!"

Sofia Mulanovich (PER)First Peruvian surfer to win an "Association of Surfing Professionals World Championship Tour" event ; first South American to win a world title; First South American surfer to be inducted into the surfer’s Hall of Fame ; and the first surfer to defeat Layne Beachley from her six year dominance of the sport - Sofia Mulanovich is an elite surfer. Since surfing is a sport traditionally dominated by men in Peru, Sofia grew up competiting against boys. She entered her first pro contest at the age of 13. Beautiful with blue eye and a hard-charging style, she will surely give this year’s SCT competitors a real run up for their money.

Speaking about her place in the competition, Sofia said, "I have always wanted to go to the Maldives. I imagine it’s just like being in paradise. I'm super excited that I now have the opportunity to surf there and stay at Four Seasons Kuda Huraa. It's a dream come true - I can’t wait! "

Surf & Stay Package Group Surf fans can book the all inclusive "Group Surf & Stay" (available from August 3rd to 9th, 2015 for a minimum booking of four rooms for five to seven nights). In addition to day packages for the competition, full board and transfers, "Group Surf & Stay" includes five or seven days of intense surfing with Tropicsurf’s expert guides and the chance to meet all the participants of Surfing Champions in the award-winning surroundings of Kuda Huraa.

Call + 230 433 05 60 or email reservation@concierge-hotels.com for rates and more information on our hotels.

Kite Surfing equipment FREE of charge with Air Mauritius

For the period 18 June - 30 September: 

Air Mauritius will allow carriage of 1 piece of Kite Surfing equipment (not exceeding 23 kg & subject to dimensions) FREE of charge outside the normal baggage allowance as shown on the ticket. 

In case the dimensions exceed 200 cms or the number of pieces or weight exceeds the baggage entitlement, the rate applicable (one way) will be at 50% off the normal applicable rate.

See dimensions and applicable rates on www.airmauritius.com. Offers applicable to/from Mauritius only. 

Indian Ocean Hikes

Indian Ocean Islands are renowned for their fine sandy beaches, their exotic flora and fauna as well as their warm lagoons and beautiful weather all year round. But did you know that on these islands, there are also beautiful and impressive mountains ? It is by climbing these summits that we become aware of the beauty that surrounds us, and the extraordinary environment that exists on these islands. To all nature lovers and hikers, we offer a selection of the best hiking trails in the Indian Ocean.

We have to admit that Mauritius is not really known for its mountains and hiking trails. Yet here we find many mountains on top of which one can enjoy the unique surrounding nature. For those who are bored and want a bit of action, you can explore several trails, either alone or with a guide and that, whatever your level. Le Pouce is the third highest mountain in Mauritius, culminating at 815 meters. This volcanic mountain is named after the funny shape of its top that kind of look like a thumb. It gives you an impressive view of the north-western part of the island, especially on smaller surrounding islands: Flat Island, Round Island and Snake Island. While climbing to the top, you will also have a magnificent view of Port Louis, the capital. A little further west is the highest mountain of the island, the Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire. With its narrow paths, the biggest challenge is to climb to the summit. But once there, you can admire the entire southwest coast. If you'd rather go south, the majestic Lion Mountain is ideal for very good walkers. The hike is sporty and physical, but the view of the beautiful shades of blue of the ocean and the landscape of the south of the island is just amazing. 

In Reunion Island, the hiking trails are numerous. No less than 500 trails are listed. It goes without saying that if you love nature and mountain walking, Reunion Island is the one island of the Indian Ocean that you must visit. Short or long, for beginners or experienced walkers, there’s something for everyone… In the center of the island, Bassin Bœuf is an ideal hike for the family, you can stop for a picnic and experience the nature and flora of the area. You can even swim in the fresh water near the waterfall. For volcano lovers, the Piton de la Fournaise hosts a walking trail rather reserved for experienced hikers. Better be warned : it's not an easy walk. But it's worth it. You can admire panoramic views of the Piton, walk on solidified lava and on the crater Dolomieu. Just north of the island, in Saint Denis, the Providence path is for very experienced hikers. This very pretty footpath covered by vegetation has become a botanical loop where you can see many specimens of flowers.

If you want an advice, do not forget your mosquito spray and sunscreen!

"La Conciergerie - Un concept novateur qui marche" Le Matinal Samedi - N°236 - Samedi 13 Juin

La Conciergerie - Un concept novateur qui marche - Page 24-25

"Un service personnalisé qui facilite la vie.

Parce que votre temps est précieux, La Conciergerie est un service 24h/24 et 7j/7 qui apporte des solutions productives et instantanées à vos exigences...Arnaud Glannes, le "Conciergerie Manager" lève le voile.

"La Conciergerie a été créée en décembre 2014. C'est une division de la compagnie Concierge & Hotels, centrale de réservations d'hôtels grand Océan Indien et services de privilège, créées en 2010", explique d'emblée Arnaud Glannes.

Elle est ainsi le service de conciergerie de Concierge Hotels, l'agence de voyage de luxe en ligne."

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The Westin Turtle Bay in Mauritius

The five-star Westin Turtle Bay hotel is located in the Balaclava area, on the north coast of Mauritius. You'll find there a safe haven, perfect to relax, perfect for a dream vacation. In the heart of the Indian Ocean, surrounded by sugar cane fields, in a bay of warm turquoise water, the Turtle Bay Westin Resort & Spa Mauritius invites you to discover the magic of Mauritian hospitality in an incredibly sumptuous setting.

Spreading over no less than 10 hectares of land, the resort has 190 rooms and suites, all luxurious. Ranging from 63 to 195 m2, they offer all the comfort and services necessary to meet the needs and expectations of customers. These residences are equipped with a flat screen TV, a cordless telephone, a tea and coffee maker, safe, iron and ironing board, a minibar and Wi-Fi. And to enjoy the first sun rays, depending on the rooms, you will have at your disposal either a balcony or a terrace. We suggest taking a beachfront room to enjoy the beautiful view on Turtle Bay, a unique marine park in the world.

The hotel offers guests a multitude of activities. You only want to spend your days sunbathing ? Deck chairs are available on the beach. Need to cool off a little? A dip in the bay or the pool, anyone? If you prefer a fresh drink to cool off, it will be offered. You hope to take advantage of your holiday to let off steam ? The hotel offers two tennis courts to its clients. They are open every day by appointment. If you wish to use the services of a professional for some advice, it is possible. The grounds are lit so that you can play at all times, even at night. Water activities are also available. Water skiing, sailing, pedalboating or outings in a glass-bottom boat ; take your pick. Enjoy what Turtle Bay has to offer ! Did you know you can find there some wonderful and unique aquatic life ? You can also book a catamaran cruise to admire the northern islands, which are actually quite close. A great way to create lasting memories.

The Turtle Bay Westin Resort & Spa Mauritius restaurants and bars offer Mauritian and international gourmet meals in a unique tropical environment. Seasonal Tastes is ideal for dining with an exceptional view of the bay. It offers international food variety. Discover Indian specialties revisited at Kangan. The Fusion Restaurant offers Mauritian specialties, while the Beach Grill offers… grilled specialities directly on the beach. Relax at The Retreat bar with a refreshing aperitif. Finally, at Mystique, the contemporary lounge bar you can enjoy tapas and sushi as well as delicious martinis while listening to the Resident DJ.

Discover our Promotions 2015 at the Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa

Rodrigues Island, Kitesurfers Paradise

Rodrigues island, like its big sister Mauritius, is an extraordinary place, so charming, so quiet, so peaceful. It is here, in the heart of the Indian Ocean, that kite surfers from around the world have been meeting for years.

The island indeed offers all the best conditions for kitesurfing. The 200 km2 of blue lagoon are swept by winds blowing over 200 days a year. Thanks to constant winds and a huge body of water, secured by the coral reef, Rodrigues is the perfect destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts, whatever their level. Whether you are curious with no experience, a beginner with a minimum of knowledge, or a even passionate expert, Rodrigues is THE perfect place to indulge kitesurfing in a beautiful natural environment. The authenticity of the island and its inhabitants, is the icing on the cake. 

Rodrigues has a multitude of spots located around the island ideal for kitesurfing. Amongst the most popular places for sports, Anse Mourouk, located in the southeast of the island, is popular with kite enthusiasts. Ideal for both amateurs and professionals, Mourouk, and its gravel sand bar is the ideal spot for those wishing to deepen their knowledge of the winds. It blows here all year although winter (June to October) is more favorable. Catherine Island, located west of Rodrigues Island, is interesting for beginners who want to master the basics of kitesurfing. This spot offers easy takeoff conditions.

The next big event not to be missed is the Rodrigues International Kite Festival (RIKF). The 3rd edition of this unique event will take place from June 24th to 28th. Organized by the Rodrigues Kitesurfing Association with the aim to promote international kite, the RIKF is a competition in several stages in the best spots of Rodrigues. Many stars of the discipline are invited, including Susi Mai, who this year, is the patron of the competition. Races, long and short, as well as downhill and freestyle are scheduled. This festival always takes place in a festive atmosphere. In addition to the competition, cocktails, barbecues and other events will be organized. Every night after the competition, several parties with international DJs and local artists are planned. A beach volley game is also scheduled for the last day. If you did not have anything planned for the last week of June, now you know where to go. Sounds like a plan, a good one.

Le Saint Géran or the Unique Elegance of the Mauritian Hotel Industry

On the East coast of Mauritius, in the picturesque coastal village of Belle Mare, we find one of the finest hotels on the island; The One & Only St Geran. This beautiful resort is known to the public thanks to the novel ‘’Paul and Virginie’’. The resort is in fact close to the historic shipwreck of St. Géran, a site accessible diving. The lush gardens and thousands of palm trees that are found scattered on the property give the hotel an atmosphere of tranquility so unique to Mauritius.

Elegant and unique, the Saint Geran offers serenity and absolute calm. The dedicated staff anticipates your desires. At the pool, at the spa or in your room, there will always be someone who will be there to satisfy your every wishes. The staff will accompany you during your stay in the hotel, with many small but significant gestures: cocktail and welcome gift, local rum and fresh fruit in your suite, bedding comfort and a variety of toiletry products. In addition to this, guests enjoy butler service, unpacking and packing of their suitcases, laundry service and of course the preparation and cleaning of the room.

Le Saint Geran offers a variety of suites and 166 luxurious villas ranging from 65m2 to 622m2 with ocean views in front and opening on the tropical gardens at the back. They can accommodate up to six people. All rooms are equipped with flat screen TV with satellite channels, DVD/CD player, hair dryer, mini bar, a Nespresso machine, safes and various professional equipments such as adapters, connections for fax/computer modem plugs, a communication system with three phones and Wi-Fi.

The KidsOnly club offers a dynamic, rich and diverse program to occupy your children aged 4 to 11 years old during your stay. One sure thing is that your kids will not be bored. Water games, treasure hunts and walks will be organized for them. Discovery activities are also offered such as : cooking classes, mosaic, sega dancing or gardening... For those a little more athletic, it is possible to learn surfing, kayaking or diving. No need to worry; your children will always be supervised by competent and qualified professionals. The club also has loads of games and video consoles: Wii, Playstation or Xbox, among others.

Adults, there’s no need to be envious ! A wide choice of activities is also available for you. The resort has tennis courts and a 9-hole golf course available to guests free of charge. In addition to this, you can hire a pedalo, do water skiing, enjoy trips in a glass bottom boat, diving or yoga. They also have access to the spa for health treatments, massages and other body scrubs. In addition, many excursions are offered to guests so they can discover the wonderful Mauritius and its unique landscapes.

Three restaurants are available so you can enjoy excellent gourmet cuisine full of flavors and colors. The Indian Pavillion offers Indian specialties, classics revisited in a modern way. The restaurant has an exceptional natural setting, overlooking the lagoon and the mountains covered with sugarcane. La Terrasse restaurant, near the pool, offers local and international menus: Creole, French or Chinese dishes, amongst others. Finally, for grilled meat lovers, the Prime offers an impressive card.

The least we can say is that the One & Only St Geran has multiple assets to please, even the most demanding customers...

The AXYS Mauritius WCGC 2015

Over the years, Mauritius has gained a worldwide reputation in the golf world, to the point of becoming the preferred destination for golf enthusiasts.

If today, the destination has emerged as one of the best in the world to play golf, it is because Mauritius is recognized by tournament organizers as an idyllic, even perfect, destination offering outstanding game framework. Located between mountains and pristine beaches, the island’s golf courses welcome many amateur and professional tournaments.

June 6 will start AXYS Mauritius World Corporate Golf Challenge (WCGC) 2015. This event, the largest corporate golf event for amateurs, will be held at the Heritage Golf Club. This Bel Ombre green is one of the best maintained course on the island. This golf course fits so perfectly in the natural landscape that it’s the perfect place to host this competition.

AXYS held a press conference this week in Port Louis. In the end, out of the 250 invitations sent, 36 teams of two members each have been selected to participate in this unique competition of which Concierge Hotel is a partner. This will be for everyone an opportunity to gather around the same passion in a relaxed atmosphere.

Next Saturday, players will evolve according to the "stableford" formula, three-quarters of their disability. "They will have to play in teams of two and their scores will be added at the end of the day," explains Loïc Bax, of Axys. Several prizes will be awarded to the players during the day. The first to do a "hole-in-one" on the 8th hole (par 3) will receive the keys to the latest BMW 1 Series. Those who pass a "nearest to the pin"  for 13th and 15th holes will be awarded a prize by Swan Group.

The organizers will also offer two awards for "longest drives" in the 18th and 6th holes. "We want to offer a special day to all golfers," says Loïc Bax, while specifying that the competition is open to amateurs only.

Didier Peten, Communication Manager at AXYS, explained that "this is the first time that we give the chance to two golfers to represent Mauritius in the finals of this international tournament. We would like to make this competition an annual event."

The winners of this competition will have the chance to participate in the finals of the World Corporate Golf Challenge, which will take place from June 30th to July 5th  in Carcais, Portugal. The World Corporate Golf Challenge is "the place to be" for golf enthusiasts. More than forty countries compete each year in this high level tournament. This tournament takes place in different countries around the world. Mauritius will participate for the first time.