The original name of the prestigious community of Bal Harbour, Florida was "Bay Harbour."  The village planners, however, thought the name didn't adequately describe their oceanfront gem.  A new word was created, taking the "B" from 'Bay' and "a" and "l" from 'Atlantic' to construct the Bal Harbour moniker, describing its desirable location between Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

In the small community full of luxury homes and upscale shops and restaurants, vast expanses of luxury real estate are extremely difficult to find.  So difficult, in fact, that there is only one stretch of oceanfront land to be had.  The final Bal Harbor oceanfront property currently available for development is over 5 acres and has a price to match is ultra-premium locale...$225,000,000. 

Italian artist and interior decorator Piero Fornasetti created more than 11,000 items, making his collection of furniture and other pieces one of the most extensive of the 20th century.  Such prolific production was drawn from great inspiration, including when Fornasetti saw the face of opera singer Lina Cavalieri in a magazine. Cavalieri's face must have moved him, as her visage appears on more than 500 Fornasetti pieces, including a plate series that numbers more than 350 variations.

Beginning in 1968 Fornasetti began releasing a limited edition 'Calendar Plate' each year; and in 1988 his son continued the tradition.  Pictured here is the newly released 2009 Calendar Plate.  This and all of Fornasetti's plates add unique style to any table setting or china cabinet.  

With the current state of the economy finding deals on any travel, let alone luxury escapes, is becoming increasingly difficult.  Several holiday plans are being altered or cancelled due to uncertainty and rising costs.

One reliable option is LuxuryLink, which has been providing affordable luxury travel online for over a decade.  Their packages feature premier 4 and 5 star hotels and resorts that have been examined by staff.  Travel packages also come with complimentary luxury services, which may include spa treatments and gourmet meals.

LuxuryLink is currently offering a gift certificate of up to $200 with the purchase of a travel package.  Those booking getaways will have to hurry, though- the offer expires on December 15th.

The amount of labor and skilled artistry needed to produce exquisite glass art is extraordinary...And so is the finished product.  Robert Kaindl, based in Kirkland, Washington, is a visionary who creates blown glass pieces that are truly unique and can provide a luxury home owner with a one-of-a-kind statement for their residence. 

Pictured is an art glass chandelier from his Celebration Series sure to spark conversation, in addition to providing sophisticated illumination.  Lively colors and supreme innovation are utilized in the creation of Kaindl's stimulating art - from his chandeliers to a variety of bowls, "seashapes" and custom work.  See more at his site.