Friday, February 29, 2008

February Contest Winner


Congratulations to Andrew D. from Los Angeles, CA for winning GLuxe's first monthly contest. For his insightful comments on the history of race car colors, Andrew wins a $25 American Express gift card. Nice work Andrew! We'll post details on March's contest on Monday.

Luxe of the Day: Maserati Gran Turismo S

Maserati Gran Turismo S
We at GLuxe are die-hard Porsche enthusiasts. We love them all, from the “junior” Boxster to the barely street-legal GT3 RS. But even for Porsche fanatics like ourselves, the new 2009 Maserati Gran Turismo S is a seductive mistress that may lead us astray.

While complete details, including sticker price, have not been released, we know this Italian beauty will have a 4.7 liter, 440 hp engine that is able to take the car from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and has a top speed of 183 mph. The powerplant is harnessed by a 6-speed, semi-automatic, electro-actuated transmission dubbed MC-Shift (sounds like a bad rapper).

Regardless of the technical merits of this car, it’s the striking and seductive lines of the car that are making us pay heed. But is it enough for us to leave our beloved Porsche? In actuality, if you are able to afford the Gran Turismo S, you’ll be able to have two loves. Like in your personal life.

Go to Maserati.com for more info.

Macy's Buy Bye Sale, save 20-75% off

From now until March 2, take advantage of Macy's Buy Bye sale event where you can save 20-75% on clearance items before they're gone forever. Click here to start shopping.

macys.com - 2.28 - 3.02

Book 2 nights and get additional 10% off at Hotels.com

Hotels.com is currently running their Spring Sale featuring savings of up to 30% on selected luxury hotels. You can now save an additional 10% when you book 2 nights simply by using coupon code: EMLSPRG82. Go to Hotels.com to book your room.

Hotels.com

One day sale at Cigar.com, save 50% on Padilla Miami & 1932



Check out this amazing one-day offer from Cigar.com. Until midnight on Friday (CST), you can save 50% on boxes of the Padilla Miami Belicoso and the Padilla 1932 Corona Gorda:

PadillaMiami Belicoso Fino
Box of 20 (5 x52)
$124.95 (reg. $250)

Padilla1932 Corona Gorda
Box of 25 (5.6 x46)
$149.95 (reg. $300)

Go to Cigar.com to order.

Top travel deals from Kayak.com

Kayak.com just released their top travel deals of the week. Here are some of our favorites:

Barbados on Sale - 7 Nights with Air from $479
Receive not only a great price, but bonuses like car rentals, breakfasts, a $100 reward card, and more with this deal from BookIt.com

SuperClubs Summer Sale - Ultra-Inclusive Stays from $90
Includes spa credits, shore dives and discounted rates

$89 - All-Inclusive Deluxe Cancun Resort (40% OFF)
Prime beachfront location - includes FREE AMEX gift, from BookIt.com

Luxor Las Vegas MVP Rates from $68/Night
Discounts on two-night or longer stays on the Strip

Spring SuperSale - All-Inclusive Trips from $599
Apple Vacations released their annual sale with hundreds off vacations to the Caribbean and Mexico

Go to Kayak.com for more deals.

Search 120+ Hotel Websites at Once

Lord & Taylor coupons, save $25-$50


Lord & Taylor is offering coupons to save either $25 off purchases over $150 or $50 off purchases over $250. Certain restrictions apply and the coupons are valid for in-store purchases until March 11. Click here to print your coupons.

W Hotel Wired Promo


W Hotels is offering their “Who Keeps You Plugged In?” promo where you get a room package that includes:

- Unlimited broadband access
- Unlimited local and toll-free phone calls
- Free one-year subscription to Wired Magazine
- Free 30-day trial membership to Vongo

You have to book and stay by May 30, 2008 and use promo code: VON when you book. Spectacular Suites start at $365 per night.

TaylorMade Rescue Mid Utility Club, $99 (reg. $180)

TaylorMade Rescue Mid Utility Club
This TaylorMade Rescue Mid utility club is designed to deliver the distance and power of a fairway wood while hitting with the straightness and accuracy of an iron. Regularly priced at $179.99, Pro Golf Discount is offering it at $99.99. A few other online retailers sell it for a similar price, but at PGD, you'll receive free Economy Shipping. Click here to order.

Tumi Townhouse Esmond Satchel, get free gift

Tumi Townhouse Esmond Satchel
We at GLuxe love the weekend jaunts. For these two-day trips, the best luggage to bring is not luggage at all, but rather a smaller bag like this Tumi Townhouse Esmond Satchel. Measuring 12 x 19 x 8.5, this attractive weekender is big enough for you essentials but small enough to throw in the trunk of your two-seater convertible. The Townhouse collection is a new release by Tumi. You can pre-order this bag for $550 at Tumi.com. In addition, you will also get a free carry-on essentials pack.

Thursday, February 28, 2008

Luxe of the Day: Eros Contemporary Recliner


Every guy's lair needs a big, strong, comfy leather recliner. That's what you'll get with this Eros Contemporary Recliner at Macy's. Covered in a deep brown leather with dark finished legs, this seat has a chic, yet bold look. Best of all, it's on sale at Macy's for $599 (reg. $699). Go to Macy's.com to purchase.

Don Pepin 12-cigar sampler at Tinderbox, $49.99 (reg. $73)


Here is a great 12-cigar sampler by Tinderbox. As part of your package, you'll receive four Don Pepin Blacks (Top 25 cigar by Cigar Aficionado), and Don Pepin's newest blend, the 601 Green. You will also receive the Punch Rare Corojo Crystal Torpedo, which is very difficult to find. The other cigars include:

- (1) La Princesa de Cuba Torpedo
- (1) Cocinero Liga Especial Torpedo
- (2) Crown Classic Torpedo
- (2) Don L. & Ventura Torpedo

The package sells for $49.99 (reg. $72.99) at Tinderbox.com.

Ron Herman Jewelry Sale, save 50%


Ron Herman is having a jewelry sale where you can save 50% off selected fine jewelry items. Pieces on sale include this diamond skull and bones necklace priced at $600 (reg. $1200). Click here to start shopping.

Free subscription to Details magazine with Zirh order

ZIRH is a leading manufacturer of men's skin care and shaving products. Their products are made from natural oils, extracts, and botanicals and are never tested on animals. With every order over $60, you'll get a free one-year subscription to Details magazine.

FREE 1 Year Subscription to DETAILS Magazine (US Only)

Reader Wine Tips

We received this wine tip from Jeremy P. from NYC:

Go to Zachys.com. They have a great selection at great prices, especially when they're running sales (which they do a lot). Currently, Jeremy recommends the following bottles from Zachy's:

2004 Greppachia (94pts) - $48
2004 Viticcio - $23

Jeremy also thinks the 3 Liter bottle of 2004 Clos Des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape Rouge (WS96) for $280 (reg. $375) at Crushwineco.com is a great deal. In his words, "This is a BIG bottle".

Btw, check out his website at JeremyParker.com. He's got some great photographs. Thanks Jeremy!

1/3 carat diamond stud earrings, $156 (reg. $195)


Ice.com is offering a 20% discount on this 1/3 carat diamond stud white gold earrings. Normally priced at $195, you can purchase the pair for $156. Here is the diamond information:

Cut: Round
Clarity: I2-I3
Color: I-J
Weight: 0.32 Carat TDW

Click here to order. The discount will show up at checkout.

Get free upgrade at Fairmont Hotels

Fairmont Hotels and Resorts is running their Only One Way Winter special. If you book one of their special rates before March 22, 2008 you'll receive a complimentary suite upgrade certificate that you can use on your next stay prior to February 28, 2009. To book your stay, either call 1-800-262-1600 or go to Fairmont.com

Find other hotel deals at Kayak.com.

Zero Halliburton Polycarbonate Zeroller, $206 (reg. $275)

Zero Halliburton Polycarbonate Zeroller
If you're going to be jet-setting around the country, you'll need a luggage that will not only protect your belongings, but also look good doing it. This roller by Zero Haliburton is exactly what you need. Measuring 21 x 13 x 9 and made of super polycarbonate, this piece luggage is strong enough to withstand an American Airlines baggage handler (yes, we bagged on American Airlines intentionally, they suck) but will also cause heads to turn at the luggage carousel. Luggage Online is offering this bag for $206 (reg. $275).

Get up to $450 from Sak's 5th Avenue, today only

Sak's 5th Avenue
Today only at Sak's Fifth Avenue (online or in-store), receive a gift card when you spend the following:

$250-$499: $25 gift card
$500-$999: $50 gift card
$1000-$1999: $100 gift card
$2000-$2999: $300 gift card
$3000 and above: $450 gift card

When shopping online, use promo code: FEBRUARY8C. Remember, this offer is good today only.

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Luxe of the Day: Get Your Art On


Admittedly, we at GLuxe aren't what you would call art experts. However, we do appreciate art, especially art of the sexy variety. We found this great website called BoundlessGallery.com that offers artists an opportunity to sell their works directly to the public. This week, we're showcasing an artist by the name of Ashley Dietrich. She mostly paints portraits and figures, including this piece which is part of her "Modern Flesh" series. You can purchase this 36 x 36 painting for $350. If you purchase by March 15, you can save 10% by using coupon code: marchmadness. Go to Boundless Gallery.com to place your order.

CAO sampler sale at Tinderbox


CAO is the only cigar company to have every cigar blend rated "90 and above" by Cigar Aficionado. Tinderbox is offering this great sampler package of CAO cigars, including the highly rare CAO Vision which was named as a Top 10 Cigar by Cigar Aficionado.

The CAO Limited Edition Sampler includes:
- (1) CAO Vision Catalyst
- (1) CAO eXtreme Robusto
- (1) CAO Criollo Pato
- (1) CAO MX2 Robusto
- (1) CAO Soprano Edition Soldier
- (1) CAO CX2 Robusto
- (1) CAO Brazilia Gol
- (1) CAO Cameroon Robusto
- (1) CAO Gold Robusto
- (1) CAO Italia Ciao
- (1) CAO Maduro Robusto

The cigars retail for $86, but your can buy this sampler for only $59.99 at Tinderbox.com.

Get free subscription to Bon Appetit magazine

Sign up for a premium membership on ZAGAT.com ($24.95 per year) and receive a free one-year subscription to Bon Appetit magazine (a $12 value). Zagat subscribers receive:

- Access to over 30,000 trusted Zagat Ratings & Reviews
- Special discounts of up to 25% off in our online Shop
- Access Zagat Ratings and Reviews on your Web-enabled phone at ZAGAT.mobi

To redeem this special offer, go to www.zagat.com/redeem and enter: BA-AFF

Yoox last-call sale, save up to 75% off

Yoox is having their last-call sale where you can save up to 75% on designer brands until March 12. Brands on sale include Dolce & Gabbana, Bally, and Prada. Click here to start shopping.

YOOX.COM FASHIONTHERAPY 247

Save up to 50% on Adidas gear at The Golf Warehouse

Adidas Mens ClimaLite Awning Stripe Polo Shirt
The Golf Warehouse is having a sale on Adidas apparel where you can save up to 50% on selected items. We found this good looking Adidas Mens ClimaLite Awning Stripe Polo on sale for $29.88 (reg. $50). The shirt is made to keep you cool and dry when you're out hacking away on the golf course. Click here to start shopping.

Coink Piggy Bank


Home prices are crashing, the stock market is languishing, jobs are going overseas...we're all screwed. That's why even the more well-heeled of us will need to start pinching the pennies. As a public service, we're showcasing this stylish saving device called the Coink Piggy Bank. The piggy bank is made of porcelain and allows the user to quickly empty their pockets of change and deposit them in one shot through the Coink's easy-fill funnel. When the pig is full, just dump out the coins through the same opening. Forget adding to your 401(k) plan, the Coink Piggy Bank will be your new retirement fund. You can buy this piggy at Generate for $39.

Save 20% on best sellers at Ice.com


Ice.com is offering an additional 20% off some of their best-selling items including this 1/2 carat diamond 14K white gold journey pendant with chain. Retailing for $1000, this pendant usually sells at Ice.com for $495. During this sale you can buy it for $396.

Versace Satin-Piped Runway Blazer, $739 (reg. $1645)


This stunning single-button blazer by Versace is on sale at eLuxury for $739 (reg. $1645). Made in Italy, the jacket has a notched collar, long sleeves with three-button cuffs, front button closure, flat chest pocket, two flapped pockets, rear slit, satin lining, and two interior pockets. Go to eLuxury.com to order.

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Luxe of the Day: Foie Gras


We know some people have moral issues with eating foie gras. We don't. There is probably nothing in this world that is more luscious, more savory, than a bite of perfectly prepared foie gras. iGourmet is offering this raw foie gras prepared in upstate New York, which is recognized by its oval shape and firm texture. They're recommendation on preparation is: "Slice uncooked foie gras lobes while very cold to avoid breakage. Slice at a 45 degree angle against the grain, usually across the lobe. Liberally salt and pepper each slice. When you sauté raw foie gras, use very high heat so that the outside is quickly seared. This method forms a delicious crisp surface and helps to keep the slice from melting away". Sounds delicious. This 1.4 lbs of foie gras can be purchased for $129.99 at iGourmet.com.

Buy one pair of shoes and get the second half off at Macy's

Macy's is having a special on shoes. Buy one pair and get a second pair for 50% off. In addition, you'll get free shipping on orders over $100 by using promo code: SHOES. Click here to start shopping.

macys.com

Padilla Signature 1932, save at Tinderbox


Padilla Signature 1932 was blended by José "Don Pepin" Garcia, and is produced in the Little Havana section of Miami in limited quantities. The full-bodied Signature 1932 has an amazing aroma, described by Cigar Aficionado as having “notes of earth and leather, all wrapped around of core of spice". The Lancero version was named on Cigar Aficionado's Top 25 list. Tinderbox is offering discounts on these great cigars:

Churchill - $292 (reg. $325)
Robusto - $270 (reg. $300)
Toro - $280 (reg. $312.50)
Torpedo - $315 (reg. $350)

Click here to order.

Tea set from Dean & DeLuca, $90 (reg. $120)


A number of our GLuxe lady friends are loyal tea drinkers so we dug up this deal from Dean & DeLuca. This set of five teas include:

- The White Lichee & Cantaloupe Tea: an organic white peony tea, with dried cantaloupe and organic lichee
- Spring Snow Rock Tea grows along the Nine Twist River in China
- King's Tea Oolong is infused with ginseng for a boost of energy
- Orange Spice Black Tea is a blend of full bodied teas, plus sweet orange peel
- The Tiramisu Rooibos Tisane is from South Africa, blended with sweet chocolate, almond slices and extracts

It's on sale at Dean & Deluca for $90 (reg. $120). Guys, sorry in advance if your ladies spends $90 on tea.

Vegas deals on Kayak.com

Below are some of our favorite Vegas deals on Kayak.com:

Stay at the Mandalay Bay or THEhotel and receive $25 Food and Beverage Credit; 2 for 1 complimentary spa admission; 20% off green fees at Primm Valley Golf Club; and $30 off Mamma Mia. Promotion good for package bookings only; book by May 1 for travel by Sept. 11.

Buy one night at the Palms Casino Resort and get one free, valid for arrivals on 1/25, 1/26 and 3/22; or buy two nights get one free, valid for arrivals 2/22, 4/4, 5/9; or free upgrade to Fantasy Tower valid May 4-15, 21-22, 26-29.

Go to Kayak.com for other Vegas deals.

Search 120+ Hotel Websites at Once

First Night Free at Sandals Resort


In an attempt to fill gaps in occupancy Sandals Resorts is offering a "First Night Free" promotion at various resorts, on all room categories, for selected periods of 3 and 4 night stays. Guests who arrive and check out during selected dates will receive the first night free. With this discount and additional discounts available at Sandals.com, you can save over 60% the regular room rate.

Save $50 on Michele watches, this week only


This week only, save $50 off Michele watches at World of Watches. They are also offering additional discounts on other watches for this week only. Click here to start shopping.

Up to 70% off at eBags

eBags is currently running their Spring Sale Event where they are marking down items up to 70% of MSRP. Some of our favorite deals include:

- Up to 30% off handbags by MICHAEL Michael Kors
- Up to 25% off handbags by Kate Spade
- Over 50% off luggage by Victorinox
- 10-20% off selected leather goods by Cole Haan
- Up to 30% off selected Puma items

Go to eBags.com to start shopping.


Welcome to eBags.com!

Ivy Hotel San Diego, save 25% on three-night stays.


You won't find a swankier hotel in San Diego than the Ivy Hotel. Rumor is that even celebs (ok minor celebs) have gotten turned away from this burlesque themed hotel.

Expedia has a special offer as part of its Winter Getaway Sale. Stay three nights, save 25% on your stay. Rates from $247 valid for stays January 10 through April 30. Go to Expedia.com to book your stay.

Monday, February 25, 2008

Luxe of the Day: Shot Glasses by Kunio Muramatsu

Shot Glasses by Kunio Muramatsu
Even if you get sh*t-faced downing shots of tequila, you should still do it with some style. Next time you have your friends over for a little bender, serve them the Patron in these gorgeous shot glasses by Kunio Muramatsu. The set of 13 glasses all come in a different and lovely hue. These babies will set you back $129, so make sure to break out the good tequila. You can buy the set at Generate.

Bloomingdale's 3-day sale, save 20%


From now until February 27, save 20% off your online purchases over $250 at Bloomingdale's. You'll also get free shipping on orders over $100 through March 3 by using coupon code: FSHIP. Click here to start shopping.

Last Call sale at Neiman Marcus, save up to 65%

Neiman Marcus
Neiman Marcus is having the Last Call Online Clearance Sale where you can save up to 65% on thousands of new arrivals. You also get free shipping with orders over $150 by using coupon code: NMSHIP. Click here to start shopping.

Leap year sale at eDesignerShop, save on Fendi and Prada

eDesignerShop sells authentic hand bags by designers like Fendi and Prada, saving you up to 70% off retail. They are currently having a Leap Year sale where you can save $29 on orders over $229 by using coupon code: FEB29. You also get free economy shipping when you use Google Checkout. Click here to start shopping.

Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Chardonnay 2005, $15.99 (reg. $20)


We love great wines that don't cost a fortune. Lucky for us, there are many such bottles. Here is one rated a 90 (Wine Enthusiast) by Robert Mondavi that is on sale for $15.99 (reg. $20). Description: "The 2005 Robert Mondavi Winery Chardonnay is a fresh, youthful wine, with lively acidity and abundant fruit. Aromas of zesty citrus, green apple and tropical coconut are enhanced by the subtle use of oak. Ripe layers of fruit flavors unfold in the glass, with citrus and green apple leading to pear and pineapple. In the background, smoky oak deepens into crème brulée". You can buy a bottle or a case at Wine.com.

Get a second night free at Palms Casino Resort, Las Vegas

Palms Casino Resort pool
We found this great offer for the Palms Casino in Las Vegas on TravelWorm.com: receive a second night free for arrival on 3/22/08, 3/30/08 OR a third night free for arrival on 2/22/08, 4/4/08 & 5/9/08. You also get two free line passes for the following clubs:
Ghostbar: Sunday - Thursday
Rain: Friday or Saturday
Playboy Club: Sunday - Thursday
Moon : Thursday or Sunday
Rooms start at #123 per night during weekdays. Go to TravelWorm.com to book your stay.

Boxer briefs on sale, C-IN2 and Calvin Klein


Guys, when it comes to underwear, boxer briefs are the only way to go. They provide sufficient support, are comfy, and are sexy for the ladies. We found two on sale that we love. The first is a C-IN2 printed no show trunk which is perfect when you're wearing your night-on-the-town jeans and need a pair of low rise underwear. This pair is on sale at Universal Gear for $16.95 (reg. $22). The second pair is from Calvin Klein and are also of the low-rise variety. You can buy this for $18 (reg. $36) at Calvin Klein Underwear.

LAMB satchel bag, $389 (reg. $645)

LAMB Satchel Bag
This satchel bag is on sale at eLuxury for $389 (reg. $645).
- Distressed leather with a delicate sheen
- Detachable "L" tag with belt attachment
- Buckled flap pockets on each side have magnetic closures and subtle quilt-like logo embossing
- Interior leather-trimmed zip pocket, two patch pockets, and small flap pocket with snap closure
- Leather-trimmed gold metal and enamel L.A.M.B. nameplate inside
- 14" (including pockets)x 10"x 7"
Click here to purchase.

Acetum balsamic and olive oil set, save $10

Acetum balsamic and olive oil set
Very little in this world beats the simple pleasure of good bread dipped in quality olive oil with a touch of sweet balsamic vinegar. iGourmet is offering a special on this tasty gift set, which contains the highly sought after “4 Leaf” Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, perfect for drizzling over aged cheeses, salads, or even ice cream. This vinegar has a superb, sweet taste, thick texture and the distinct aroma of cooked grapes. Paired with it is an exquisite, cold pressed extra virgin olive oil from the island of Sicily. This package is on sale for $39.99 (reg. $49.99).

Hotel Del Coronado San Diego, special package for $300

Hotel Del Coronado
The legendary Hotel Del Coronado (or Hotel Del as more commonly known) has just completed a $150M renovation and is offering a special deal on their rooms. Starting at $300 per night, you'll get:

- Accommodations
- Two adult 3-for-1 passes valid for unlimited
admission to SeaWorld, the World-Famous San Diego Zoo
and the Wild Animal Park for five consecutive days
- A special welcome gift.

Taxes and $25 daily resort charge not included and a 4-night minimum stay is required. Click here to book your stay.

Go to Kayak.com to find other hotel deals in San Diego.

Sunday, February 24, 2008

Luxe of the Day: Tag Heuer Monaco Men's Limited Edition


The original Monaco watch was made legendary by Steve McQueen in the 1970 movie, LeMans. This latest edition by Tag Heuer is an homage to the Porsche 917K racecar in the movie, with its orange and blue racing stripes down the face of the watch. Limited to only 4000 watches, this iconic watch will definitely be a collector's favorite. Dexclusive is selling this watch for $3269 (MSRP: $4670).