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Caribbean Celestial Season

Ladera Resort Hosts "Astronomy Week" March 15 - 22, 2003

Guests at Ladera Resort will be over the moon this winter, when, from March 16 - 23, the resort hosts a first-ever "Astronomy Week." The events will celebrate the splendor of the clear Caribbean night sky and the unbeatable celestial views from each of Ladera's fabulous open-air guest suites and villas.

Ladera is an eco-lodge style property, modeled on luxurious tree house living, located at an altitude of 1100 feet above sea level feet and set in the lush St. Lucian rainforest.  Each room was intentionally designed with just three walls, affording spectacular, unobstructed views of the night sky.  A guest can even star gaze without getting out of bed.

The Ladera Resort "Astronomy Week" features Derrick Pitts, Chief Astronomer and Fels Planetarium, Director at the Franklin Institute Science Museum in Philadelphia and host of Sky Talk, a weekly radio program on National Public Radio.  Mr. Pitts will provide guests with guided viewings of the constellations each evening, exploring the phases of the moon and planetary system.  Professional quality telescopes will be installed on the public terraces.

However, rates for the special week won't be astronomical.  The usual seasonal rates apply and start at just $395 per room per night and include a variety of complimentary extras specially chosen for Ladera's select group of star gazers.

"Astronomy Week," March 16-23, 2003

• One-bedroom Suite or Villa accommodations, not including taxes and 10%
  service charge

• Complimentary hardcover copy of Practical Sky Watching by David Levy
  ($50 suggested retail price)

• Complimentary CD recording of Gustov Holst's The Planet, conducted by
  Eugene Ormandy and the Philadelphia Orchestra

• Complimentary "Milky Way" or "Cosmo-politan" cocktail at Ladera's famous
  open-air Tcholit Bar

"Astronomy Week" Rates, based on double occupancy
One-bedroom suite with plunge pool      $395
Deluxe one-bedroom suite with plunge pool   $495
Two-bedroom suite with plunge pool      $560
Villa with indoor plunge pool           $600
Luxury Villa with pool              $820
Extra person in villa               $35

For reservations guests may call Ladera Resort toll free at 800-917-0766 or send an email to ladera@candw.lc .  More information on the resort is available on the website at www.ladera-stlucia.com.

One of the Caribbean's most private resorts, Ladera features six villas and 19 suites. Interiors are furnished with polished woods, while the open wall leads to a private plunge pool and lush tropical landscaping. Each guestroom embraces the panoramic views and island ambiance through innovative design and the ultimate in open-air living. Colorful madras linens adorn the beds and ceramic tiles from local craft makers are found in the bath areas. Dasheene, Ladera's award-winning restaurant, serves innovative renderings of local and international cuisine in this breathtaking setting.

Soufrière, St. Lucia, West Indies

Edited by Dave Shultz

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