Ask Haute Retreats: Your Latest Questions Answered
Guests who consult Haute Retreats gain access to our vast network of recommendations—insider tips and suggestions personally vetted by our community. Below, you’ll find recent inquiries we’ve received, such as the best kid-friendly beaches in Ibiza for a fun day out, and the finest restaurants in Florence to savor authentic Tuscan cuisine—along with expert responses from our team.
The Destination: Ibiza
Question: What are the best beaches for families in Ibiza?
Cala Llonga: This wide, sandy beach is perfect for families with its calm waters, playground, and plenty of sunbeds. The shallow water makes it great for kids to swim safely, and there are restaurants and facilities nearby.
Cala Tarida: Known for its crystal-clear waters and soft sand, Cala Tarida is another family-friendly beach. There are water sports, shaded areas, and restaurants, making it a great spot for a family day out.
Santa Eulalia: Located close to Ibiza town, this beach is well-suited for families with its promenade, calm waters, and nearby cafes. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation and family fun.
Cala Vadella: Set in a sheltered cove, Cala Vadella offers shallow waters and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for younger children. You’ll also find several beachfront restaurants with family-friendly menus.
Cala Bassa: This beach has soft white sand and shallow waters that are great for children to play safely. Plus, it has amenities like showers, restaurants, and sun loungers to ensure a comfortable beach day for the whole family.
These beaches are known for their family-friendly environments, offering a balance of amenities and safe swimming conditions for children.
Further Reading: Kid-Friendly Beach Clubs in Ibiza: Where to Make a Splash
The Destination: Playa Del Carmen – Mexico
Question: We are going to be in Playa del Carmen for a week and we would like to reserve a beach club, can you suggest the best beach clubs?
Mamita’s Beach Club
- Vibe: One of the most iconic beach clubs in Playa del Carmen, known for its lively atmosphere and frequent music events.
- What to Expect: Comfortable sun loungers, cabanas, a large swimming pool, and great food and drinks.
- Perfect For: Partygoers and beach lovers looking for a vibrant scene.
Coralina Daylight Club
- Vibe: Upscale, lively day club with a pool and beachfront views.
- What to Expect: A luxurious setting, ideal for partying with DJs, a swimming pool, bottle service, and delicious cocktails.
- Perfect For: Those looking for a party atmosphere by the beach.
Kool Beach Club
- Vibe: A trendy, slightly more relaxed alternative to Mamita’s.
- What to Expect: Delicious food, beachfront lounging, and a friendly atmosphere with modern decor.
- Perfect For: Families and groups looking for a chilled but upscale beach experience.
Further reading: The Finest Dining Experiences in Playa del Carmen
The Destination: Florence
Question: Looking to have a great Tuscan meal in Florence – which restaurant do you suggest?
Trattoria Mario
- Overview: A no-frills, family-run trattoria known for its hearty Tuscan dishes.
- Specialties: Famous for bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), ribollita (a Tuscan bread soup), and pasta dishes.
- Vibe: Casual and lively, often filled with locals.
- Location: Via Rosina, 2r, near the San Lorenzo Market.
Osteria del Cinghiale Bianco
- Overview: A rustic Tuscan eatery offering a warm atmosphere and traditional dishes.
- Specialties: Wild boar (cinghiale), fresh pastas, and dishes with truffle.
- Vibe: Cozy and welcoming.
- Location: Borgo San Jacopo, 43, in the Oltrarno district.
Ristorante Il Guscio
- Overview: A refined restaurant offering a mix of traditional Tuscan fare and modern twists.
- Specialties: Handmade pasta, game dishes, and seasonal local ingredients.
- Vibe: Intimate and elegant, yet relaxed.
- Location: Via dell’Orto, 49, in the San Frediano neighborhood.
Further Reading: Kid-friendly Luxury: The Best Caribbean Islands for Families on Vacation
The Destination: Tuscany
Question: We’d like to book a villa near located walking distance to a town in Tuscany. Can you suggest me a few?
Villa Felicia
Villa Felicia is a stunning villa nestled in the heart of Tuscany, close to the charming towns near Florence. Among these, Panzano stands out as one of the region’s most famous destinations, celebrated for its rich cultural history and exceptional wines. Located midway between Florence and Siena, Panzano is home to some of the best Chianti wineries, renowned not only for their Chianti Classico but also for their prestigious Super Tuscan wines, offering a true taste of Tuscany’s renowned viticulture.
Villa Carlisa
Villa Carlisa is perfectly situated in the heart of Chianti, nestled in a small town amidst the breathtaking rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside, while being conveniently close to the charming town of Radda.
From this villa, visitors can easily explore the cultural gems of Florence and Siena, as well as discover a wealth of medieval villages, castles, historic churches, abbeys, and monasteries. These landmarks form a captivating itinerary through a landscape adorned with vineyards, olive groves, and lush woodlands, making the Chianti region truly one of a kind.
Further Reading: Best Time to Rent a Villa in Tuscany: A Seasonal Guide to Your Dream Getaway
The Destination: Costa Rica
Question: We’re traveling with teenagers. What are the best activities you suggest for teenagers?
Costa Rica offers a plethora of exhilarating activities that are perfect for teenagers, combining adventure, nature, and cultural experiences. Here are some top recommendations but each region in Costa Rica has its best activities, it all depends where you will stay:
Adventure Activities
Zip-lining: Experience the thrill of soaring through the treetops in places like Monteverde or Arenal. The lush canopy and breathtaking views make it an unforgettable experience.
White-water Rafting: The Pacuare River is renowned for its exciting rapids and stunning scenery, making it ideal for adventurous teens.
Surfing: Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, especially spots like Tamarindo and Jaco, offers excellent surfing opportunities for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Nature and Wildlife
Hiking in National Parks: Explore the diverse ecosystems in parks like Manuel Antonio or Corcovado, where teenagers can spot wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds.
Volcano Tours: Visit the Arenal Volcano for a chance to see one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The area also offers hot springs for relaxation after a day of exploration.
Cultural Experiences
Chocolate Tours: Learn about the history and process of chocolate-making in a fun and interactive way. It’s both educational and delicious!
Local Markets: Explore vibrant local markets to experience Costa Rican culture, try new foods, and shop for unique souvenirs.
Water-based Activities
Snorkeling or Scuba Diving: Discover the underwater world at locations like Cahuita National Park or the Catalina Islands, where marine life is abundant.
Kayaking: Paddle through mangroves or along the coast, offering a unique perspective on Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
Further Reading: Best Places to Travel in October: From Cape Town to Tuscany
Got a Question for Haute Retreats? No matter how unique or niche, we’re here to help. That’s one of the great things about being part of our community.
