Luxury Hotels

Experiential Travel

2012-02-05T07:44:00.001-05:00

Traveling with a purpose can inspire some of the most memorable journeys. Sometimes, traveling just to veg-out in five-star splendor is exactly the remedy for stressful times, but other times call for travel that fulfilsl some kind of inner need. Here are some of the top destinations for quenching your thirst for experience, without sacrificing any bit of comfort when you resort back to your hotel..

Easter Island

Need to get away from it all? How about venturing the most remote place on earth for some exploration? Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, is the adventure for all adventurers. While you can get down and dirty doing things like hiking, biking, boating, and surfing there, the island is known for the mysterious, and humbling Moai. All over Rapa Nui, the Moai are found by the hundreds. They are the remaining evidence of an ancient culture, however they offer little clues as to how they were actually used, what their meaning was, and what happened to the civilization that was responsible for their existence. Nonetheless, these incredible works of historical art draw fascinated visitors every year, from every corner of the world. The local culture is also equally impressive, and people leave refreshed, and at peace for having experienced it all.

Where to Stay: explora en Rapa Nui, Posada de Mike

Ireland

Lovers of myth, magic, and history will be enchanted with the beauty Ireland beholds. Even with the greatly modern, busy pace of everyday life in this ancient land, the wisdom and traditions dating back centuries still prevail here. Throughout the Emerald Isle there is an abundance of sacred sites, such as stone circles and sacred wells. The evidence of the Druids still remains, and in this land of fairies, the spiritual past has left a wondrous imprint on the culture, making it an amazing destination for divine soul-searching, and keeping you in touch with your spirit.

Where to Stay: The Four Seasons Dublin

The Grand Canyon

America’s most beloved natural national landmark, the Grand Canyon is a spectacle of a sight just by air. The experience is even more intense when you can witness it, and feel it’s energy by being there. Anyone who has ever rafted the whitewater of the Colorado River, as it rushes through the Canyon, has come off the experience changed. Your adrenaline will be flowing, and this exhilarating thrill of a journey will satisfy every sense. It is one thing to travel to the Grand Canyon, and view the site. It is a totally different trip to take it in by raft!

Where to Stay: Enchantment Resort and Mii amo Spa

Indian Tiger Safari

Very few places in the world offer the chance for witnessing tigers in the wild, and for anyone who is mesmerized by the majestic, larger than life felines, it is a fantasy waiting to happen. This classic adventure has tantalized many as a definite ‘bucket list’ experience, when it was so prominently described by Rudyard Kipling in the “Jungle Book.” A new twist on the journey is to enjoy it by way of chartered plane, rather than the old-fashioned driving tours, which were known to be full of hassles and inconveniences. A winged safari consists of private, chartered flights, and they are currently touring through Corbett National Park and Bandhavgarh National Park. Corbett holds the highest population of wild tigers anywhere on earth, and in certain designated areas, the park actually permits walking. Touring India from the sky is an experience that cannot be compared to!

Where to stay: The Taj Mahal New Delhi

Even in faraway places, you can be sure that we have the best hotels, and they're lavish enough for any luxury connoisseur. By reserving your stay through our site, you also enjoy the privileges of our Exclusive Complimentary Perkswhich give you added value over any other site.

Top Golf Resorts

2012-02-01T23:01:00.000-05:00

If you golf, you know the pleasures of taking vacations that cater to your love of the sport. Wherever there is a beautiful destination, with nice weather, and great views, chances are, there will be a golf course nearby to take advantage. If the spot is exceptionally lovely, the five-star hoteliers will definitely have their offerings, where you can golf in total luxury. Here are some of the greatest and most gorgeous golf resorts:

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

As one of the premier golf resorts in the world, it is the dream of any golf aficionado to one day stay and play there. In beautiful Southern California, the Lodge at Torrey Pines gazes out onto the Pacific Ocean, and nearly every room and suite feature golf course or ocean views. The architecture of the lodge was done in the classic, local Craftsman-style of the early 1900’s. With custom-made furnishings, textiles, and carpets, the elegance is superb, and lends an obvious sense of uniqueness to the resort. When the fun on the course winds down, the two restaurants on the property feature signature California cuisine, artfully created by award-winning chef, Jeff Jackson. This resort is a AAA 5 Diamond Award winner, and rests next to the 18^th green of the stunning Torrey Pines Golf Course. SoCal golfing at it’s finest!

The Gleneagles Hotel, Perthshire Scotland

As the birthplace of golf, it is only fitting that Scotland would know exactly how to create the ultimate golf resort. The Gleneagles Hotel of Perthshire was created to appeal to the most discriminating of connoisseurs, and is among the “Great Golf Resorts of the World” list. As a AAA Five Red Star resort, the property is favorite among professional golfers and luxury-lusting travelers alike. In 2005, Gleneagles held the G8 world leaders summit, and is set to host the 2014 Ryder Cup tournament. In addition to the three 18-hole courses, guests can enjoy a wealth of Scottish culture here. The Equestrian Centre, The Gleneagles Shooting and Fishing School, The Club and Spa, The Golf Academy, The British School of Falconry, tennis courts, fitness facilities, swimming pools both indoors and out, and off-roading are just a small sampling of the activities to be found, in addition to the world-class golfing, on this 850 acre Scottish estate!

Half Moon, Montego Bay Jamaica

The finest offerings of the Caribbean, the Half Moon resort displays everything you could dream of relishing in. Whether you come as a family, or strictly to enjoy the golf and serenity, you will be taken care of here. The par-72 golf course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., and has been the recipient of many awards. Also for your benefit, you can hone your skills or even learn the art of golf at the Caribbean’s only David Leadbetter Golf Academy, located on the property. The two crescent-shaped beaches, abundance of aquatic activities, including a dolphin lagoon where adults and children can meet and play with dolphins, cannot be challenged in terms of amazingness!

Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, Mexico

The Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita is one of the most spectacular destinations for golf. When legendary golf maverick Jack Nicklaus puts his name to designing a hole, it is guaranteed to be spectacular. But what can be said of the hole he considers as his very best? Nothing short of brilliantly breath-taking! In his words of description, the “Tail of the Whale” 3B hole of Punta Mita has surroundings so beautiful it may be difficult to concentrate on playing. This is the only green in the world that sits on a natural island in the ocean. With eight holes right on the water, the astounding ocean views are endless on this peninsula. The course was designed to challenge the golfer’s every ability. A trip here will never be forgotten!

When you book a luxurious golf vacation at any of these amazing resorts through our site, you will be amazed at all of the Exclusive Complimentary Perks! You can golf nearly anywhere, but nothing can compare to playing golf in with the backdrops some of these golf resorts offer. With a beautiful environment, the game is just that much more exciting and satisfying. Luxury hoteliers have this completely figured out, boasting phenomenal golf courses in many of the world’s most beautiful places.

Four Seasons Hotels are always cooking something special

2012-02-01T22:57:00.000-05:00

In any major city in the US, any restaurant inside a Four Seasons Hotel is always considered extraordinary. You can expect to be served the best when dining at any of their restaurants, lounges, or bars. Here are some of their top options in some very popular destinations atateside. Whether you are in Beverly Hills, Washington DC, Chicago, or Denver, visiting these hotels for the excellent dining is no joke!

Four Seasons Hotel Denver
In a state known for their ranches, the food is superb in all of Denver. At the Four Seasons, they expand on this, and offer a truly Colorado-type experience, done to gourmet perfection. At Edge Restaurant, you can enjoy the best local ranch, as well as artisan offerings, grilled on the only wood-burning grill in the city. Celebrating the essence of farm-to-table freshness and purity, in the most glamorous setting imaginable. While you dine, savor one of the 200 different wine selections, and enjoy the finest eating in the midwest! It really is as amazing as it sounds!
Also check out the hotel’s Edge Bar, and Level 3 Bar.

Four Seasons Hotel Washington DC
When in Washington DC, guests of the Four Seasons, as well as those who simply come to dine, are overwhelmingly pleased with what awaits at Bourbon Steak. A sophisticated steakhouse, with a wood-burning grill, designed to accommodate the DC lifestyle, as well as give travelers a taste of the nation. This restaurant is at once luxurious and modern, with gorgeous interiors and equally delectable dining. Expect the finest cuisine, organic beef, fresh seafood, and a seasonal emphasis for optimal flavors. At any given time you can expect to be seated among high-powered politicians and celebrities here. Reservations are always recommended, as this spot gets packed for both lunches and dinner!

Beverly Wilshire, Four Seasons Beverly Hills
More than just a restaurant, CUT at the Beverly Wilshire is a landmark. A masterpiece by two legends: the cuisine, orchestrated by Wolfgang Puck, and the elegantly avant garde space was designed by Richard Meier. With outstanding food that ranks as some of the best in all of Los Angeles, Wolfgang Puck has outdone himself yet again: imagine the classic American steakhouse creatively redone with his signature flair. The high-profile atmosphere beckons A-listers as a place to see and be seen. CUT is quite the experience for hotel guests as well as those just there to savor it all the same! As one of LA’s premier places for the finest of dining, you will enjoy the people watching as much as the gourmet eats!

Four Seasons Hotel Chicago
Set to open in February 2012, the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago will be bringing guests a gorgeous example of regional gourmet dining. Heading in the intelligent direction of farm-to-table, with the exceptional leadership of executive chef, Kevin Hickey. Well-known in the culinary world, Hickey has lead the current establishment at the Four Seasons Chicago to the awards of two consecutive Michelin star ratings. There is an enormous amount of hype around the opening of this restaurant, and it is expected to be outstanding. If Chicago is going to be on your radar in the coming months, you know where to go!

Along the same lines as their exquisite hotels, the Four Seasons brand never falters in their showcase of anything: service, amenities, style, and dining. Always ahead of the curve, and always a leader, their restaurants are guaranteed to be among the finest in any city where they are precisely located. The grander the city is, you can bet the grander the restaurant will be.

Terranea

2012-01-28T18:35:00.000-05:00

Are you itching for a sunny and warm getaway to beat the winter blues? Does an extravagant, modern palace of a resort, resting on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, right outside of LA sound heavenly? Terranea Resort is located just south of Los Angeles, and is the prefect spot for evading winter.

Right now is ideal for a “Winter Escape,” no matter where you are located. While our Exclusive Complimentary Perks are always full of sweet advantages, the winter special at Terranea promises to add even greater value!

Terranea is surrounded on three sides by the ocean, and directly across the channel sits Catalina Island, which is visible from Western views. The Mediterranean legacy of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, where the resort is officially located, is evident in every aspect of the décor. From the moment you enter, you will feel the elegant warmth embrace you. This graciousness spreads, from the surroundings to the ultra-attentive staff, who are just waiting to take care of your every need. This is a concept mastered by all of thebest hotels in Los Angeles, however the one-of-a-kind environment, and resort make Terranea unforgettable.

With 102 acres of stunning land and priceless views, you couldn’t imagine a vacation in a more beautiful location. While the charm is entirely of the old world, this resort embraces every modern amenity possible, and is proud to be considered an “eco resort.” Understanding the needs of their clientele, Terranea makes every effort to offer their guests a wide range of recreational activities that will enthrall every one of your senses. The resort is known for it’s world-class nine-hole golf course and exceptional spa, however the surrounding area of the Palos Verde Peninsula provides ample amounts of opportunities for enjoying the ocean as well as the coast. The horseback riding, hiking, biking, standup paddleboarding, scuba diving, whale watching, and fishing are unbelievable if you can pull yourself away from the resort for a little while. And then, if you feel really adventurous, you are not far at all from LA, where you will get more than your share of action!

Terranea was designed to offer guests a full spectrum of accommodations, ranging from ocean-view rooms, to deluxe suites, villas, the incomparable casitas, and the ultra-exclusive Spa Club Bungalows. While the suites and guestrooms are spacious, casually luxurious, and elegantly simple, they offer the perfect level of comfort and amenities. The casitas and private villas present even more luxury, space, and lend a very residential feel to guests who want more family-oriented accommodations. They are very private, and allow guests to feel perfectly at home with the incredible surroundings. In the bungalows, you can expect every indulgence possible, with all the luxury that Terranea can offer, while you delight in all of the amenities of a “spa” vacation. The bungalows are more fun for adults only, and focus on total relaxation, and pampering meant to revitalize.

This palatial resort draws its vacationers back over and over again. There’s just something magical about the way Terranea has been perfectly designed, taking full advantage of the outstanding views, providing sumptuously spacious suites and rooms, while being in perfect harmony with the beautiful natural environment. Indeed, it is a extraordinary resort to escape winter!

Four Seasons Koh Samui

2012-01-28T09:55:00.000-05:00

Trendy, glitzy, and getting hotter all the time, Koh Samui has this charming ability to lure in tourists that range from idealistic, soul- searching backpackers, to the luxury-seeking jetsetters. What once was a hippie paradise, is now an island of lavish relaxation. On the Gulf of Siam, Koh Samui is waiting to wrap you up in it’s glory!

This fab island has upstaged the appeal of Phuket, and entices those in need of an exotic, polished, island getaway. Perhaps the most magnificent among all of the Thai islands, you can still experience the distinctive culture while immersed in the necessary creature comforts.

If you are planning a trip to this stunning island, staying at the Four Seasons Koh Samui is a must! As one of the best hotels in Thailand, the standards of perfection are very high. Totally out of the way, the meditative calmness here will put any traveler at ease. Hillside villas in the traditional Thai style are quaintly set into the landscape of lush gardens, many with stunning views overlooking the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Siam. Every villa features chic modern-island décor, rich with Thai influences, and opulent private infinity pools. Be prepared, for when the Four Seasons signature attention to detail is met with gracious Thai hospitality, the results are impeccable!

As far as food goes, there really is no need to mention how awesome local Thai cuisine is. Not far from Malaysia, there is an unmistakable influence of Indonesia in Koh Samui’s culinary offerings, whether you are eating at a food shack or are feasting five-star. The dining choices at the Four Seasons are fully representative of the area, and their fine establishment, “Lan Tania” brings both Thai and Italian specialties to the table. Dining here, you can savor your meal as well as spectacular sunsets on the Gulf of Siam. An amazing place to eat, it’s a wise idea to make reservations ahead of time!

Another reason the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui is the ultimate spot for the luxury-seeking traveler is that you will be pampered here, like nowhere else. What's more, since WhataHotel! is owned by Lorraien Travel which is a Preferred Partner of the Four Seasons brand, placing bookings at any Four Seasons Hotel & Resort has its advantages because WhataHotel! guests get Exclusive Complimentary Perks at all Four Seasons properties. In short, you will be viewed as privileged, and it is a very nice thing!

Thailand has a dual reputation. On one hand, it’s known for being a wild, raucous destination where the parties can go on for days. Yet on the other, it is a place of vast serenity, with the spiritual notions nearly everywhere you go in the entire country. The hot, tropical climate makes it a favorite destination among Europeans, as well as Asians who reside in more northern regions. While the mainland may be bustling with it’s energetic pulse, the scene on Koh Sumai is anything but!

Halekulani

2012-01-25T05:47:00.000-05:00

Don’t be mistaken by it’s laid back vibe, Oahu is an unbelievably rich cultural explosion! Every expert on the local scene has got their fair share of favorite places to find amazing art, food, design, fashion, and spots for viewing the vast natural resources; ranging from endangered sea turtles, to stargazing in Waimea Valley.
A fusion of culture, breath-taking sites, and one very cool place to spend a vacation, "the gathering place" as Oahu is known,will make you want to never leave!

Honlulu, the capital of the Hawaiian Islands whcih is on he sooutheastern shore of Oahu beckons beach-lovers, adventurers, surfers, and those in search of the idyllic island life. Honlulu boasts one of the most famous beaches in the world: Waikiki Beach. Here, on any given day the presence of true Hawaiian life occurs simultaneously alongside the mass of visitors that flock to the area. The exceptional Waimea Bay has tantalized surfers for decades with it’s larger-than-life breaks. The waves can soar up to 50 feet from the right winter storms, however the bay is generally smooth, calm, and waveless during the summer months. The East Shore is filled with gorgeous jungles and pristine spots along the coast. The calm waters are perfect for outrigger canoeing, and the freediving is incredible. If you have no fear, have yourself a plunge off “da Big Rock,” which is a massive rock formation that juts into the bay.

While some of the best hotels in Honolulu can promise luxury, striking views, and the warm Hawaiian spirit, the place to stay is Halekulani. With a name that translates as “House Befitting Heaven,” you will feel just that when you enter the lobby. This luxurious, palatial resort spreads across five acres of beachfront splendor. It has been a Waikiki staple for almost 100 years. Nearly a century of exquisite service, benevolent hospitality, and well-appointed décor, it is the embodiment of island luxury. All the while it carries an understated grace, an elegance that speaks for itself, without ever being ostentatious.

If you like to eat, that’s a very good thing in Honlulu. There is an abundance of good food to be found in this city, and from morning til night, you will be a very well-fed vacationer! The Polynesian food is a total staple, and you’ll find tons of places that do it right. In this climate, where the volcanic soil makes for fantastic produce, you will be savoring a whole lot of it. The spot “Town,” is loved for being classically Hawaiian, serving only locally sourced foods, and awesome cocktails in a relaxed setting. The menu is ever changing, so you can always expect something exciting. For breakfast, a fave among surfers is “Café Haleiwa,” where the omelets are unbelievable. No trip to Oahu would be right without a visit to Haleiwa Joe’s. A hipster joint that gets packed nightly, with locals, surfers, and tourists, it features Hawaiian-fusion cuisine, and very elaborate cocktails. Japanese cuisine courtesy of “Nobu” and “Morimoto” add some sophistication, and make excellent use of all the fresh, locally caught seafood, as well as the area’s Japanese heritage.

The Polynesian Cultural Center will deliver a feast for the eyes in everything imaginably Polynesian. You can experience the classic luau, where you will be served poi, kalua pua’a, and poke as you delight in the live entertainment of classic hula dancers and Samoan fire-knife dancing.

A beach-side haven, with luxurious hotels and picturesque sites at every turn, Honlulu is simply paradise, in every sense of the word. You will find local art everywhere, and with surroundings this gorgeous it goes as no surprise that people are continuously inspired here.

Valentine's Day Getaways

2012-01-23T07:27:00.000-05:00

The world is filled with seductive spots that will make celebrating Valentine's spectacular. Most certainly you can stay locally, wherever you may be, and book in the most luxurious hotel in your city, for a more laid back, stay-cation type of celebration. If that’s up your alley, be sure to check out our collection of the best hotels in the world. However, if you’re not aiming low-key, and want to really set off the fireworks for the occasion, here are some premier destinations for love. Booking your reservations with us, at any of these properties will ensure an even sweeter Valentine's Day getaway because of our Exclusive Complimentary Perks!

San Francisco is a prime spot for romantic endeavors. There is always plenty to do and see, and there is no end to the extraordinary places to eat. With some incredibly intimate boutique hotels that will definitely up the charm, such as the brilliantly elegant Clift, this town promises an exciting trip for V-Day. Clift manages to capture all of San Francisco’s artistic roots and timeless edginess within a single hotel, with it’s famous design elements orchestrated by the one and only Philippe Starck, and it’s equally impressive collection of modern furniture pieces from the likes of Dali, Marguerite, and William Sawaya. For the most opulent, brazenly luxurious way to savor the city by the bay, head to the Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco. The level of service, and the attention to detail will satisfy even the hardest to please. An added bonus is that you really cannot beat those Bay Area sunsets on the coast!

Step into another time and state of mind with your loved one in Edinburgh. There is more than enough history to keep the city magical, with the elegant architecture of castles in the distance. All the while it is a beaming, culturally-rich metropolis offering any modern amenity you could dream of. The Royal Mile is an excellent place to amble down slowly, drinking in the sites. The Balmoral Edinburgh by Rocco Forte is a stylish, five-star hotel that will have you in the city’s hot seat during your entire stay. A leading example of European luxury, a Valentine’s Day spent here will be unforgettable!

The entire nation of France just exudes romance, cliché or not! If you’re looking for cozy, and a destination that makes staying in all the more alluring, the magic of the French Countryside awaits you in Provence. Stay at the Four Seasons Resort Provence, where you’ll be surrounded by gorgeous views of the rolling hills, sip delectable wines, have the opportunity to play golf at one of finest golf courses in France, and enjoy the exceptional spa facilities which are renowned as some of the best in Europe. Make it the perfect Valentine’s Day treat by reserving one of the exclusive VIP couple’s suites at the spa!

With less than a month to plan, get booked, and go, Valentine’s Day is creeping quickly upon us! Have you got your romantic vacation booked yet?

Aman

2012-01-22T08:21:00.000-05:00

Aman Resorts are perfectly placed in select destinations. They are set into idyllic natural surroundings, built with spectacular architecture, and created to ensure guests the most authentic, tranquil vacation imaginable. Maybe even more than you imagined! The idea is quality over quantity, and there are only a select number of rooms per resort. The essence of exclusivity is the foundation of Aman Resorts. The word Aman is Sanskrit for “peace,” and their resorts are the absolute defining essence of it!

Amangiri, in Canyon Point, Utah is a spectacular resort nestled into a valley that gazes out onto the Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument. Highly awarded, it is very well known for being one of America’s top destinations for luxurious enjoyment of Utah’s southern desert climate. This resort was made for savoring the pleasure of the natural surroundings, as it was literally built into the landscape. While the structure holds a very commanding presence, it does not overwhelm and is in perfect harmony with the environment, maintaining a very intimate sophistication. The property’s main building is the central Pavilion, and it encompasses a stunning swimming pool on the exterior, which too, was built into the natural stone formations. This may be the resort’s most impressive element, as it’s views are utterly astounding. With a limited number of suites, each showcases the area’s incredible desert views. The Aman Spa at Amangiri is also no stranger to accolades, especially for such features as it’s floatation therapy pavilion, steam room, water pavilion with accompanying sauna, and the cold plunge with the step pool. The additional fitness centre and yoga pavilion also lend to the spirit of therapeutic wellness and serenity!

For nature enthusiasts looking for the finest way to savor all of Yellowstone National Park, you have to stay at the Amangani. Set into the historical landscape, the Yellow Stone resort sits atop a high mountain valley, East Gros Ventre Butte in Jackson Hole. Gazing out from the resort, you will find meadows, the Snake River Valley, and then the spectacular Tetons in the distance. This resort calls to mind the greatness of the American West, with a modern flair. As one of America’s premier destination resorts, Amangani has been awarded numerous times, making Conde Nast’s Gold List more than three times, received recognition in Conde Nast’s Gold List as “Best for Design – North America,” it has been named one of the “Top 30 Small Resorts in the US,” and placed among the “Top 20 United States Hideaways” on Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report in 2011. While the winter season is glorified by the excellent skiing, which Jackson Hole is famous for, throughout the year you can enjoy all of the incredible natural vistas the area holds.

How could you possibly enjoy the untamed, untainted beauty of the British Virgin Islands more than in perfect union with your surroundings? With a stay at Amanyara, on the gorgeous island of Turks and Caicos. This exclusive and exceptionally luxurious resort consists of private villas and pavilions set into the tropical landscape, surrounded by ponds and elegant gardens that have been cultivated within the natural rugged stone of the headlands. Beyond all of this lies the powdery, white sand and turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, where some of the best diving in the world can be found. The resort’s swimming pool features exquisite vistas of the ocean, from a sprawling terrace. Amanyara’s spa is also worth noting, as it offers stunning views of a reflection pond, and is surrounded by gorgeous vegetation. Morning outdoor yoga classes are complimentary, and are held every morning in the spa’s yoga sala. Contemporarily classic, refined and peaceful, this is the epitome of paradise.

Aman Resorts may not be widely known but that is definitely not their goal. Their aim is to create luxury in an intimate setting, where personal attention can be a maximum part of the service. This brand wants to be set apart from the crowd of five-star hoteliers, to offer something different, something more along the lines of exclusivity and tranquility, wherever in the world they are located.

Acqualina

2012-01-20T14:07:00.000-05:00

Perfectly situated between Miami Beach and Ft. Lauderdale, sits the elegant Acqualina Resort & Spa, Sunny Isles Beach. Miami’s premier ocean resort, out of the way from the frenzied party scene of South Beach, and designed to pamper guests in every possible way; this is how you enjoy Miami in optimal opulence.

A palace that echoes with Mediterranean influences, this resort holds a calming, luxuriant ambiance. With 4.5 sprawling, oceanfront acres and gorgeously landscaped gardens, the resort offers 400 feet of coastline right outside. It is one of the few resorts in all of Miami that can deliver extravagance, serenity, and privacy perfectly executed to such a degree. Innovative as well as tranquil, for families the children’s program based on marine biology will stimulate any child’s need for fun and intelligent stimulation! And booking a reservation through WhataHotel! promises an even greater sense of luxury because we offer Exclusive Complimentary Perks when you reserve with us, which you will not receive through other sites.

To say the status is excellent is kind of an understatement. Countless awards have been bestowed, both from industry leaders, as well as those in the category of “reader’s choice.” When an establishment acquires the AAA Five Diamond award, you know your stay is going to be just that good. Other accolades have been the Travel & Leisure World’s Best Awards 2008, Fodor’s Choice Gold Award 2010, and Andrew Harper’s 2011 Reader’s Choice Award.

After a day spent enjoying the white-sand beach, and the intoxicating warmth of the Miami sunshine, retreat back to the spa for the “Escape From the Beach” treatment, to further induce a state of relaxation. The resort’s glorious spa draws both visitors from all over the area, as well as those who travel there for simply enjoying the spa. ESPA has built a reputation as one of the finest spas in the world, and with their first North American location, they have solidified their presence outside of Europe. This spa is unlike any other, and is designed to take the spa experience to an elevated level. With foundations in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian holistic science, this spa has signature treatments that are as rejuvenating for the body and mind, as they are for the spirit. Different from anything else in Miami, guests are warmly invited to unwind and relax in the ESPA atmosphere with complimentary access to the stunning Crystal Steam Rooms, Experience Showers, Finnish Saunas, and will receive a $40 spa credit for each night that is spent at the resort. The ESPA spa at Acqualina has received a multitude of awards in it’s own right, such as being named one of the Top Spas in the Americas and Caribbean by Conde Nast Traveller, being named “Miami’s Best Day Spa” by Allure Magazine, and placed among the top ten of Spa Finder’s Reader’s Choice Awards.

Offering four different dining options, Acqualina presents sophisticated, yet relaxed cuisine with incomparable settings. The exclusive Costa Grill is open for lunch daily, from 11:00am to 6:00pm, and serves only resort guests, residents, and members. On Friday and Saturday evenings, when the weather permits, beachfront dinners can be enjoyed at this casually serene spot. The renowned Il Mulino New York presents an exquisite new location here in Miami, from the New York landmark restaurant. Formal, yet vibrant and exciting, you can savor the best of New York’s Italian legacy indulgently in the tropics. For an intimate dinner, how about being served on the beach at a private, candlelit setting, with cuisine from Il Mulino?

Here you can find more of the best hotels in Miami.

Cancelling Your Cruise ?

2012-01-18T18:28:00.000-05:00

No matter how luxurious a cruise ship is, a five-star hotel is so much more. While the buffets may come quicker than you finished your last meal, and the overly eager staff will assist you in nearly anything you ask for, there really is no comparison. Floating Vegas-style debauchery where everything is precisely prescribed can definitely have it’s benefits, but most of the time, nothing compares to seeing the sites and then relaxing in an exceptional hotel. Keeping in mind last week’s tragedy off the Italian coast, we highly encourage you to opt for more stable, more luxurious accommodations on your next vacation.

Nothing against cruises, per se, but the kind of service you receive on land is far superior. Cruises offer up a precisely planned repertoire, and when you’ve been on one, you’ve been on them all, no matter how the interiors differ. In a luxury hotel, if you have needs or special requests, often no matter how outlandish they may be, your concierge will have them met, sometimes before you even arrive. There are so many little details that a hotel can offer, while giving you the options surrounding towns and cities provide. Cruises can get stuffy, and even booking the largest suite on the boat can feel claustrophobic at times. In between destinations, you are literally stuck on board. You have only the same options for eating which includes a small variety of restaurants to choose from. Another thing to think about is the “gourmet” food which is served will never be as fresh as in a place not moving because of the amount of preparation that needs to happen beforehand. Most top-notch restaurants are certainly never serving that many courses, to that many people in a single night, never sacrificing quality!

While many people view cruises as an affordable way to travel to multiple places in comfort, many of the hassles and inconveniences get overlooked. The freedom and ease you have in a hotel does have a price, but when you weigh out all of your options, you may find the costs even out. When you book a reservation with WhataHotel! you will receive Exclusive Complimentary Perks at an enormous variety of five-star hotels from our collection throughout the world, adding additional amenities and savings.

While cruising enables travelers a sense of luxury by boarding your hotel, and traveling to and from each destination, it can actually get quite stressful. These kinds of itineraries often leave little room for exploration and spontaneous diversions. In each locale, you have only a measured amount of time to see the destination, and you will certainly never get to feel its essence on such a strict schedule. Cruising through Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska, around Mexico, and Hawaii have always been favorite vacations among cruising aficionados. In Hawaii and the Caribbean, the islands have ferries and other boating services that cater to travelers wanting to travel to other islands. This is bound to appeal to anyone seeking adventure, and it offers the guest the chance to decide on a whim where they’d like to go. It also offers a more authentic taste of the local culture.

In Europe, where so many famous cities and countries are located within a very close proximity of one another, hopping from one to the next can actually be quite easy on land. You can stay in a multitude of luxurious hotels, never sacrificing comfort, and all the while play it by ear in how you savor each location. And if there is one thing about this continent is that Europe has some of the best, five-star hotels in the world. If hitting only the big tourist spots is your thing, enjoy them on your own terms. A cruise cannot offer the thrill of discovery, which is one of the best parts of traveling to begin with. Do a little research ahead of time, to get an idea about where to eat locally. Of course, your hotel will most likely have superb dining in the local customs as well as catering to tourists.

Wherever you may travel to, there is nothing like being on your own two feet to truly experience a place. When you stay in a five-star hotel, the experience is optimal. If you really need to experience a cruise at some point, go for it, but guaranteed you’ll come off of it relishing luxury hotels that much more!

Ritz Carlton

2012-01-17T07:49:00.000-05:00

The Ritz-Carlton name is a legend when it comes to five-star hotels. Spanning the world and every major destination, their impressive collection of hotels attract the most discriminating travelers seeking distinction. Founded on a combination of European excellence and American intelligence, it all began with Cesar Ritz who was considered the “king of hoteliers and the hotelier to kings.” Their level of service is outstanding, and has been used as an example by which many other companies, not just hotels, set their standards by. Here is an in depth look at the origins of this intriguing, landmark brand.

The first hotel to bear the Ritz label was the Hotel Ritz Paris, followed by the Ritz Hotel London, and both were lead by Cesar Ritz. While not entirely under the ownership and management of Ritz, several hotels were opened in North America bearing the Ritz name. When the Ritz-Carlton Boston opened it’s doors in 1927, it signaled a new era in American hotels, and it changed the essence of what a luxury hotel was to be considered. It was an instant success, and became a favorite among Boston’s wealthiest and aristocrats. The level of status that this particular hotel held was like no other. It was deemed as something of a private club, and entrance was only granted to the extremely rich, and privileged. There was a strictly enforced dress code that was aligned with the formal standards of Boston high society. Before the 1960’s, the level of formality was excessive. Holding such stature allowed the hotel to go to such measures as dismissing reservation requests if the paper upon which the inquiry was written was not posh enough.

Soon, Ritz-Carlton was established as a chain, extending into the area of resorts in addition to extremely luxurious hotels. As a brand, they are highly awarded, continuously being recognized for their service, excellent hotels, and incredible dining. Today, the reputation remains the same, and throughout the world, in their resorts and hotels you can expect exquisite service, gorgeous interiors, and some of the very best accommodations money can buy. In every major city, Ritz-Carlton has you covered. Cool fact: The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong towers nearly 500 meters into the sky, and has the boasting claim of being the tallest hotel in the world.

Always a first choice among celebrities, by the 1940’s the Ritz hotels of Europe became synonymous with providing safe shelter to many ousted rulers during the tumultuous years of World War II. Housing the likes of royalty, government officials, spies, members of the British Cabinet, and arms dealers, who sought the refuge of hotels such as the Ritz Hotel London and Hotel Ritz Paris for their impeccably built structures that were touted to be safer than anywhere else from the threat of bombs. There were such monarchs as King Zog of Albania, and King Peter of Yugoslavia now mingling with covert spies disguised as socialites, one can only imagine the conversations that went down in these places! One of the Ritz Paris’s most famous inhabitants was Coco Chanel, who took up residence there when the Nazis occupied the city. A woman with a talent for survival as much as fashion, it was her romantic involvement with a Nazi officer that provided her perfect access to move into such a protected dwelling. It was this same talent that kept Mademoiselle Chanel from being charged for war crimes, as those around her served time after the war for their involvement, as she cited her resourcefulness in just happening to know the right people.

The Ritz-Carlton brand has been legendary from the start. Owning a unique, interesting history, and being the location for historical happenings has only added to the mystique. From their roots and into the future, the excellence in service and luxury is outstanding. Gold stars and diamond ratings are nothing new here, it’s part of the package and expected. Year after year, from Conde Nast to Forbes Travel, you can expect the Ritz-Carlton name to be repeated time and time again.

Four Seasons Maui

2012-01-13T14:20:00.001-05:00

Considered by many to be the finest island in all the world, Maui is exceptional. It’s no wonder that it has been voted as the “Best Island by Conde Nast readers for seventeen years. This “palace by the sea” will envelop and immerse you in paradise!

Maui at Wailea has long been a spot for enjoying Hawaiian luxury to the extreme. While our site offers among the best hotels in Maui, the Four Seasons stands out in the crowd. For those looking for luxury that isn’t stuffy, sophistication without gimmicks, this property is the real deal. The Four Seasons Maui at Wailea reflects all the inherent beauty of the island, and exemplifies it with magnificent surroundings and signature, understated elegance. The hotel boasts the largest guest rooms of any hotel on the entire island, while maintaining every effort to provide an intimate setting. If you have money to spend, there is nowhere better to do so than here! When you book your reservation with us, you will receive Exclusive Complimentary Perks that add excellent value to your booking. What's more, Lorraine Travel (which owns WhataHotel!) is a Preferred Partner agency of Four Seasons and the "Preferred Partner" label differentiates your reservation when it comes to special courtesies like a Room Upgrade.

As expected, the level of service you will receive from the minute you step onto the property is a testament to the brand, and will definitely not disappoint. With perfectly manicured, fragrant gardens, courtyards, a gorgeous infinity pool, and stunning views, all of your senses will be indulged here. While this hotel epitomizes the essence of laid-back posh, one extraordinary detail here is the massive collection of contemporary Hawaiian art that can be found throughout the entire resort. From paintings to sculpture and pottery, every guest can experience this unique and intrinsic aspect of the culture.

Maui is known for it’s perfect weather, stunning gardens filled with lush, native flora and fauna, white-sand beaches, and the majestic view of the Haleakala National Park, which is home to the massive peak of a dormant volcano. As a destination, it welcomes more than 2 million visitors yearly. Recreation is the biggest draw for visitors, as Maui offers an incredible amount of outdoor attractions. As part of their services and amenities, the hotel organizes excursions in whale watching and outrigger canoeing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. During the winter months, this area is home to the impressive humpback whales, whose underwater songs will enchant the ears of anyone who hears them. If you’re interested in golf, Wailea offers three spectacular golf courses merely minutes from the Four Seasons. Golfing against this island backdrop, as the emerald rolling hills abruptly end at the glistening Pacific, is one of the most beautiful settings for golf you could ever experience. Tennis courts courtesy of Wailea Tennis Center, (as well as two that are onsite), volleyball, basketball, a putting green, free use of bicycles, and the three swimming pools offer plenty of options for enjoying the outdoors while you are here.

As an obvious choice for families who want the most comfortable accommodations available, the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea has dedicated a wealth of services that specifically cater to these needs. By far, this resort is the most family-friendly on all of Maui. In-room baby-proofing, a wading pool, complimentary beach and pool toys, children’s bathrobes, complimentary toiletries for babies and children, and a wading pool are just some of the amenities meant to make families feel at home here. Babysitting services can be arranged, and there is a whole programme dedicated to providing activities for the young vacationer. Children’s desires are indulged as much as their parents’ whims, and the level of spoiling will reach ultimate levels after a vacation spent here! In fact, I don’t think any child who would want to leave at all!

The Maui Spa is a prime example of what a spa should be, and offers incredible renewing services. Meant to rejuvenate, and revive your spirit with Hawaiian treatments, massages, in addition to wellness therapies such as acupuncture, and guided meditations, your bliss level will be maxed-out!

Three highly acclaimed restaurants await you here, and they are all kid-friendly. Fine dining at Spago, Wolfgang Puck’s masterpiece, offers Hawaiian and California-fusion cuisine, overlooking the shore. Ferraro’s Bar E Ristorante is the only restaurant in Wailea that offers beachside dining in an open-air setting. Taking advantage of Maui’s divine weather, savoring a glass of wine under the stars is an unbeatable experience. The cuisine is rustic Italian, and nightly you can enjoy the live, instrumental Italian music. Slightly more relaxed is Duo, specializing in fine steaks and seafood. Offering locally farmed Kobe-style beef, exquisite seafood, delectable specialty cocktails, and a stellar international wine list, Duo’s award-winning chefs do not disappoint! The poolside location that overlooks the sea is unbelievable, and will have mesmerized throughout your meal.

Hawaii may call to mind luaus and hula girls, ukulele tunes and those eponymous shirts that signify “vacation.” You can surely get your fill of the tourist experience when visiting Maui, but if you’re looking for a more authentic, casually lux and relaxed encounter, the Four Seasons Maui will wrap it’s elegance gloriously around you.

Four Seasons New York

2012-01-12T05:29:00.000-05:00

In a city brimming with fine hotels, the Four Seasons New York stands out as a pillar of sophistication, luxury, and exclusivity. Considering all the New York luxury hotels, this speaks volumes of what the Four Seasons offers. While many five-star hotels take opulence over the top, and many seriously overdo it, this one does it all perfectly on point. With an understated elegance that “walks the walk” in terms of an exemplary hotel; after staying here once, you will never see NYC the same way!

Upon entering, even those accustomed to opulent surroundings will be taken aback by the lobby’s magnificence. It holds an eloquent relaxation, a soothing atmosphere meant to whisk you quickly away from the commotion just outside. It is at that first moment you begin to feel the luxury sinking in. Cathedral ceilings supported by massive marble pillars fit with a contemporary art deco design, give this entry a larger-than-life feel. While it is the tallest luxury hotel in New York City, and despite being massive and absolutely astounding, there is an inescapable elegance and serenity that allow you to relax immediately. The aura of this hotel really is like no other. It is the perfect antidote, the definitive place to stay in New York to escape the city!

The hotel holds 368 spacious rooms, of which 63 are exceptional suites. Most offer incredible Manhattan views, while others gaze onto Central Park through substantial windows. All of the plush, custom furnishings carry a running theme of soothing, pale coloring, and the rooms are continuously updated to deliver the most modern amenities. The marble-clad bathrooms invite instant relaxation with their deep soaking tubs that are designed to fill to capacity within 60 seconds. Many rooms offer furnished terraces, where you can enjoy the sites of the city and Central Park from the privacy of your own room.

Located perfectly in Midtown, you will have excellent access to Fifth Avenue’s world renowned shopping, and the charm of Central Park, in addition to hundreds of other attractions that always have the city hopping.

As for dining, you should expect only the very best. Three lounges offer stylish, classy spots for relaxing and savoring a beverage. The enchanted forest of The Garden lends a magical element to breakfasts, brunches, and lunches enjoyed there, surrounding you with acacia trees from Africa. 2 Michelin stars were just awarded to L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon in the 2012 Michelin guide. This fine French restaurant is the crowning achievement of chef Joel Robuchon, exemplifying his culinary artistry. As exclusive as restaurants get in New York, reservations are required, and made at a minimum of 30 days prior; full capacity seats 46.

With all of these incredible reasons to book a stay at the Four Seasons New York, the greatest and most revered attribute of this legendary hotel is the unparalleled level of service. It is not a cliché with the Four Seasons; it is an absolute part of the foundation. As a Preferred Partner with the Four Seasons brand, we proudly offer additional, Exclusive Complimentary Perks and amenities by simply reserving with us. Your every request is going to be met, every desire granted. The staff is there to please and treat every guest as if royalty, and you’ll surely feel it!

Best hotels San Diego

2012-01-10T15:51:00.000-05:00

San Diego’s got a lot to offer the traveler. It’s a vibrant, colorful city, and it’s anything but ordinary. From stunning beaches to blazing nightlife in the Gaslamp District, a unique shopping scene, an endless amount of great places to eat, tons of outdoor activities, local wineries, and the most famous zoo in the country. Whatever your forte, and whatever your age, San Diego can please any world traveler!

With 70 miles of excellent beaches, you can spend your entire vacation on the water. Among visitors and locals alike, whale tours are immensely popular. Nothing can compare to the majesty of being at arm’s reach of the massive California gray whales as they migrate from Alaska. This excursion is only accessible during the winter and spring months from December through April, however, because once the waters warm up, the whales head back to the colder waters. The peak time to witness them is mid-January, when it’s possible to view up to 200 of them in a single day!

All throughout San Diego, you can expect to find amazing food. Farmer’s markets, tiny yet brilliantly authentic Mexican food, the best sushi outside of Japan, incredible fusion pizzas that cross cuisines like Latin, Thai, Indian, and Italian, succulent seafood, ethnic foods from every country possible, and five-star dining that will blow your mind. No matter where you’re eating in San Diego, your taste buds will be in heaven. If you’re one to travel for the enjoyment of food, from January 15th through 20th, San Diego Restaurant Week will be happening. All of San Diego’s best eats will be putting up three-course menus with excellent prices. Make reservations before you go, though, because this event is as popular with local foodies as visitors!

For a different take on the food scene, you absolutely cannot visit San Diego without hitting up the gourmet food trucks. While there are food trucks in nearly every big city in the US these days, San Diego’s are top-notch because they represent the already astonishing food that permeates every corner! Because they are mobile, and utterly transient, the best way to keep up with these gourmet digs on wheels is via social media because even though they tend to run on a weekly schedule, it’s better to know beforehand.

And then there are the hotels. As awesome as everything else about this beautiful city, the five-star hotels and all of their amenities are what (hotel) dreams are made of. Our collection of the best hotels in San Diego offers something for any traveler wanting a signature experience in the local culture without sacrificing any comfort. Top-rated spas are expected, and any of these hotels will please and pamper you with their distinct treatments and attention to detail. The ultimate spot is the Paradise Point Resort, which is an exclusive private island comprised of 44 gorgeous acres set into Mission Bay. Total luxury, yet always comfortable, the guest rooms were done in a beach-bungalow style. The grounds are landscaped with lush gardens, with serene lagoon views. Amidst all of this paradisiacal seclusion, you are merely minutes from downtown, and all of the major attractions. You really get the best of everything at this resort! For more action in the middle of all the action, the W San Diego is located in downtown. While the beaches are just a short drive away, the rooftop Beach Bar is a pleasant reminder with it’s heated sand and spectacular views of the skyline. The Grand Del Mar has been recognized by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the “World’s Best Places to Stay,” and is definitely among the most luxurious resorts in all of San Diego. Housing the only restaurant that has been recognized as both Five-Star and Five Diamond, you will be eating very well when you stay there! The world-class golf, top-rated spa, and superior Mediterranean decor are sensational, and will envelop you in a cocoon of sumptuous comfort at this exceptional resort.

To top off all the great reasons to visit San Diego, it also has, arguably, the best climate anywhere in America. Uncontrollably sunny and warm, semi-arid yet on the shores of the Pacific means you get the best vacation weather possible. Pair that with an exquisite hotel, excellent food, fun attractions, and beautiful surroundings; what more could you ask for?

Buenos Aires Best Hotels

2012-01-09T05:59:00.000-05:00

One of South America’s most unique cities, full of old world charm yet is entirely a modern, metropolitan city, is the graceful, ethereal Buenos Aires. It is a mix of European influence in a purely Latin environment. It is a place filled with beauty: from it's people to its historic architecture, and landscapes. You’ll find amazing shopping, with the best of all South America can offer; local crafts, traditional garments, and loads of high-end boutiques. The nightlife is wild, Argentine food is exquisite, there are amazing hotels, and you can definitely spend some time learning the seductive art of tango!

Argentines are passionately heated people. Whatever endeavor may be consuming them, they do it with intensity and they do it right. There is a running current of the nation’s heritage, the European laid-back coolness is always evident in the attitudes and the energy of the city. However, when it comes to soccer, dance, design, wine and food, it’s all about ferocity. These mainstays of the culture are so important to it’s people, and equally important and enjoyed by visitors that there are no compromises to be made. Any which way you experience them, you’ll feel the emotion that was put into the execution. Culturally, Argentina will excite you with all the eye-candy and offerings for experience.

Many people travel to Buenos Aires simply to enjoy the cuisine. World-famous for their beef, this is not the most appropriate destination for vegetarians! All throughout the city, you can find family-operated cafes, in very homelike settings, serving traditional dishes of select cuts of beef, game, and mollejas. No trip to Buenos Aires, or anywhere in Argentina would be complete without savoring the famous local wines and cheeses, and you can be assured that you can enjoy them nearly everywhere. You can also find many places that serve excellent traditional Spanish and Italian cuisines, which pay homage to Argentina’s colonial days.

On weekends, the Mataderos fair is not to be missed. Experience the action of gauchos gallantly displaying their skills with their horses. This event also features a gorgeous display of the artisan craftsmanship that goes into the creation of their locally made ponchos, handmade knives, jewelry and many goods that come from the countryside.

Buenos Aires is loaded with exceptional luxury hotels. Decadent and complete with incredible detail, you will love your surroundings when you stay at any of these five-star digs. Here is our line-up of the best hotels in Buenos Aires. The "people's choice award" goes to Four Seasons Buenos Aires will more than make you fall in love with the city; it will make you never want to leave. A single night’s price tag here is a heavy one, but oh-so worth it! Located near everything in the La Recoleta district, this stunning classic French mansion has a distinct vintage beauty with an onslaught of modern conveniences and all the contemporary luxuries you could possibly want. As an added bonus, there are many additional amenities that cater to families with children. Whatahotel.com is pleased to have “Preferred Partner Status” with the Four Seasons brand, and we offer Exclusive Complimentary Perks with all Four Seasons hotels.

Upon entering Buenos Aires, you may be a bit confused. The architecture speaks of the 19th century, the green plains are reminiscent of Northwestern Europe. Old, old traditions are preserved in daily life, yet at times it seems things are utterly “right now,” and entirely on cue with the current times. It is a city of tradition without fear of advancement into the future. Diverse and exciting, Buenos Aires is a city like none other you’ve ever been to!

Best Hotels in Rio for Carnival

2012-01-06T07:11:00.000-05:00

The entire Catholic world parties for Carnival. The Europeans brought Catholicism to the Americas, and there are customary celebrations all throughout the Caribbean, South America, and the wildly festive party that happens in New Orleans, where the bacchanal is called “Mardi Gras.” No matter what name it goes by, and no matter where it’s celebrated, there is no destination that can match the fervor, velocity, or passion by which Brazil celebrates their most famous endeavor: Carnival. A celebration of all the pleasures of the flesh, and a time to party as hard as possible before Lent, Brazil takes it to the extreme every single year!

A world away from the austere celebrations in Europe, and heavily influenced by the culture’s African heritage, Brazilian Carnival has set it’s own standards, traditions, and mood. There is no other event in the world that draws a foreign crowd of over 500,000. The total number of partygoers is actually way larger, as the entire nation participates in the festivities. Everywhere in the nation, Carnival is celebrated, but Rio’s party is the biggest, best, and most sought after. It is no joke when it’s called the biggest party in the world, and that is what happens for four days and nights. It is an explosive, electrifying experience that will have you in sensory overload. A visual spectacle of glittering costumes, impressive choreography from the many samba schools, and music so loud you can feel it inside, with drums that match your own heart beat. Year after year, Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is always an exciting event! For sure, when you see the sight of the Sambadrommo, the street-stadium where the parade takes place, you will be stunned and mesmerized! While the parade is never to be missed, afterwards people party on the streets of Rio well into the morning hours.

One amazing facet of Carnival is how it unifies a nation. It is such a massive event, and crosses all socio-economic boundaries in a country where there are enormous divides between the wealthy and the poor. Everyone in the nation is a part of the celebration, with absolutely no discrimination!

At least once in your lifetime you should make the pilgrimage to Rio for Carnival.

Many people book months and years in advance because Carnival draws such an enormous crowd, that hotels really fill up fast. It is also well known that this is the height of Brazil’s tourist season, and you can expect to splurge big on your hotel room. Here is our collection of the best hotels in Rio. Booking with us will entitle you to fabulous Exclusive Complimentary Perks because of our unique relationships with these particular hotels. Favorites include the Copacabana Palace and Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro because of their excellent service, beautiful interiors, prime locations and abundance of amenities. And it also does not hurt being situated on that famous stretch of beach!

While Carnival is happening, its very likely that you’ll be having so much fun that you will not get much sleep for most of it. Anyone who parties at the full capacity of Carnival needs an adequate amount of rest and relaxation afterwards to recover properly! Enjoying the luxuries of your hotel, laying out on the beach, rejuvenating at the spa, and dining on delicious Brazilian cuisine will make a world of difference. You’ll also get a taste for the more laid-back side of Brazil, and be ready to travel home in fair condition!

The best hotels in Venice

2012-01-05T09:05:00.022-05:00

The beauty, magic, and appeal of Venice is that it can be affordable on all budgets, however if you can spend on luxury, Venice is beyond stunning. As for five-star hotels, these are the best hotels in Venice. Imagine gazing at the majesty of the Grand Canal from your room, and being surrounded by the classic Italian opulence of sumptuous interiors and glittering chandeliers that were blown in Murano. There is no mistaking why it is considered the most romantic city in the world.

Ca’ Sagredo Hotel

Nothing but old world glory and a gorgeous journey through history will greet you at this splendor. It is at once a hotel, a museum, and a national monument, as it was once a palace of the Sagredo family, who were Venetian nobility. The entire hotel is filled with one-of-a-kind creations by artists such as Pietro Longhi, Tiepolo, and Andrea Urbani, with spectacular frescoes, and paintings throughout. The architecture detailing will also astound you, including a marble staircase created by Tirali. Nearly every room has Grand Canal views, and is exquisitely decorated.

Hotel Cipriani & Palazzo Vendramin

This hotel offers two options, you can stay in the main Hotel Cipriani, or the Palazzo Vendramin, which is a residence built in the 15^th century. Some say these two properties have the absolute best views in all of Venice, and the atmosphere is indisputably romantic. The Palladio Suite has it’s own private dock, and the floor-to-ceiling windows present remarkable 180 degree vistas of Venice. Also known for it’s unparalleled serenity, the perfectly manicured gardens and one of the only swimming pools in the city, this hotel is like no other.

Hotel Danieli

This magnificent hotel is comprised of three palaces, which alone speaks of the grandeur. The Palazzo Dandolo dates back to the 14^th century, and was the residence of the Doge Dandolo family. The opulence here is obvious, and no diminutive detail was spared. Columns of carved pink marble, intricate stained glass windows, hand-woven rugs, and dazzling chandeliers of Murano glass are fixtures all through the hotel. Also prized for it’s location, Hotel Danieli sits on Riva degli Schiavoni, very accessible to all of Venice’s attractions, shopping, cafés, and is walking distance to St. Mark’s Square. Many rooms have stunning views of the lagoon. Cool fact: In the movie “The Tourist,” this was the hotel where Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie’s characters stayed.

In this gorgeous city named for Venus, goddess of all things regarding love and beauty, you will surely fall head over heels for the surroundings. The magnificent hotels here have storybook histories, and the kind of elegance and opulence of a bygone era! Check into one of these, and you will never want to leave!

Best Hotels in London

2012-01-04T11:57:00.000-05:00

London is livelier than ever with an incredibly cool list of places for eating, drinking, and getting down and dirty on the social scene! The new wave of “a night on the town” is a little looser, less uppity, still classy, and quite adventurous.

London has no shortage of excellent hotels, and here you can find the best hotels in london . Hotel bars are hotter than ever in London. The Met Bar, of the Metropolitan London, has recently revamped it’s appearance and the once limited status that welcomed only hotel guests and members. Now it has reopened to the public, and is ready to serve classic yet updated British fare. An absolute must are the cocktails, which are sophisticated and diversely created to suit a world of palettes! There is also an extremely extensive wine list, and you can order vintage champagne on a per-glass basis. For a really fun and historical journey in drink, the Library Bar of the Lanesborough London is magnificent, fun, and quite a diversion from any ordinary drinking experience! The ambiance of a well-tended fireplace in an exquisite library, fit with volumes of leather-bound books and luxuriant leather wing chairs sets the mood. You can then enjoy a fine collection of vintage cognacs in what is considered “liquid history.” And if cognac doesn’t fit your fancy, their list of cocktails definitely will! For a very classy excursion in modern British socializing, The Four Seasons London at Park Lane has an amazing restaurant and bar in Amaranto. Featuring Italian cuisine fused with the local British sensibility, it is sensational and not overpowering. The setting is lavishly vibrant, and totally comfortable. Enjoy your food and drinks in the private garden, when the weather permits because the views of Park Lane are unbelievable!

One of the most eccentric, and interesting ways to enjoy the night in the company of others is at the Shoreditch haunt, the Disappearing Dining Club. Located at 123 Bethnal Green Road, this place is all about the unexpected, and getting you out of the usual drinking-and-dining box. A dining room set into a mega-style boutique, where you can contemplate your style as you drink your cocktail from in a vintage teacup. Speaking of which, comes another facet of this place: you are meant to “start” your evening at the top floor, where you enjoy the cocktails and canapés, and as you proceed through each course you descend to the next floor. Your best behavior is certainly not expected, and you can definitely toss all the pretenses out the window before you walk in too! The people behind the Disappearing Dining Club are also known to throw secret parties throughout London at the drop of a hat. They host a myriad of events- from offbeat weddings to art and music shows, cocktail gatherings, and dinner parties in all kinds of places like empty warehouses, random rooftops, clandestine gardens, and mysterious galleries. They really know how to keep the party interesting and exciting, and people in London are raving about the food, drinks, music, and dancing in the most unconventional environments.

On the other end of the spectrum are the ultra-exclusive party spots, where only the most privileged can get in. The Arts Club, with it’s accompanying Club Nouveau is a members-only, art meeting place and rock-and-roll music party house. It has nothing but absolute A-listers, royalty, and acclaimed artists as members. Recently opened is the private club, 5 Hertford Street, which takes inspiration from Annabel’s and Studio 54, where the atmosphere is reportedly as wild and as free as can be!

Right now, visiting London for the social scene is ! The bars, the clubs (if you can get through the door!), and the hotels are enough to make your stay one you’ll never forget, or perhaps remember- depending on how hard you party. As a destination, London is brimming with excitement!

The Plaza Hotel New York

2012-01-03T23:23:00.001-05:00

Are you a technology-loving individual, or just someone who likes to stay hooked up to their iPod. There's nothing worse than checking into a hotel and finding your hook-up options sub-par, and The Plaza Hotel New York has been working on their offerings for an optimal customer experience from day one.

Plaza Hotel General Manager Shane Krige, a fan of new technology like the iPad, took current options and blended them with an interactive customer experience, or ICE, plus in-room environmental controls. The new technology allows hotel guests to control 30 different service areas, starting with in-room dining and zipping all the way to valet service. Not only is it convenient for the customer to use, but it is advantageous for the hotel's operations and procedures.

“That was the home run in this,” Krige said, “to have it be fully integrated into our systems and to offer the guest such a range of capabilities.”

The Plaza Hotel is quick to point out that their new iPad/ICE combination has not been devised to cut costs (although it does, for those interested). It is super-efficient, yes, but it is also able to improve service and help streamline supply-and-demand for food and services, for example.

“And for our guests,” Krige added, “it means that when you arrive at JFK airport, you can use your iPhone to engage the system, check in, and order lunch for your arrival. The ‘personal touch’ it gives us is just astonishing. And the Intelity platform for running a hotel is just superb. But for us, it’s really about improving our guest experience and service.”

If you're a foodie or someone who just likes to move fast, then the ICE technology combination should work for you. The Plaza Hotel has developed a new standard for luxury hotels, and guest service will be taken to new levels, thanks to Krige's interest. You'll get up-to-the-minute special offerings from the hotel restaurant, access to announcements, and service details to your heart's content. Who would complain about better service? If you don't have an iPad, you might want to consider getting one just so that you can check into The Plaza and see what the fuss is about! After all, they were already offering Exclusive Complimentary Perks, so it's a win-win situation for you.

Fashion Week New York Hotels

2012-01-03T06:44:00.000-05:00

Fashion Week in New York City takes fashion as far as it goes. Everyone is there to be seen, and will be wearing their most stylish, most chic getups. It is no doubt a very clamorous, glamorous scene abound with celebrities for all the big shows, cameras flashing, paparazzi following the celebs, and when they aren’t striding down the runway- models will be everywhere. Fashion Week NYC will be February 9-16, so get booking your lux hotel stay now!

This week will be devoted to the Fall 2012 collections. Hailed by some to be the best and biggest of the major global fashion weeks, New York’s fashion week is not to be missed by anyone who works in the industry, is a fashion insider, or anyone who is even moderately obsessed with style. In this single week, expect more than 250 different events focused on fashion, with 70 of the biggest, most important shows happening at the famous and lovely Lincoln Center. Two times a year, all of New York City gets overtaken by this tidal wave of upcoming trends and style, and you can be sure that in the following months you will be wearing what you saw there! More than 100,000 people flock to the city for each of the twice-annual Fashion Weeks, and it has such a hard-hitting impact, that the press coverage alone coming in spans more than 30 different countries- that is how important of an event this is!

Most of the fashion shows are held at Lincoln Center, however there are a few which are not. If you are looking to attend any of the shows, hopefully you are special enough to have received an invitation. Otherwise, good luck getting in! If you are there just for the scene, there will be plenty of other events where you can still enjoy the action!

Everything about Fashion Week is nonstop action. Expect to be on the go, and getting very little sleep. The least you can afford yourself is to book a room in a very nice hotel, so that when you do crash, you can do it properly in luxury with Whatahotel.com! You may even want to book an extra night just to recuperate because of the Exclusive Complimentary Perks! The Gramercy Park Hotel is an obvious choice for anyone with a fashion inclination as the hotel is overwhelmingly stylish. The Carlyle is another classic choice, where the ambiance is definitively “New York” and the elegance is a staple. When it comes to relaxation, service, and comfort no one does it better than the Four Seasons Hotel New York. Their spa is the perfect place to unwind after the whirlwind! Here's our entire line-up of luxury hotels in New York .

Oh the dizzying tizzy of non-stop runways, the fabulous new clothes we will be dying to get our hands on, and those decadent after-parties! New York is a city that rakes in nearly $40 billion yearly in fashion sales. No need to say that it has cemented it’s international importance as a fashion capital, and Fashion Week is like it’s royal parade!

Among the best hotels in Paris

2012-01-02T14:59:00.000-05:00

Did you know that The Four Seasons Paris, formerly known as the "George V," was General Eisenhower's headquarters during the 1944 Liberation of Paris? This Whatahotel.com preferred hotel features Exclusive Complimentary Perks, and the guest rooms are furnished so well that you'll probably feel like you're in the private residence of royalty, or close to it.

Guests at The Four Seasons George V Hotel Paris can now take a spin in a Hermes-inspired, hand-built Rolls Royce Phantom exclusively through the hotel. The commissioned project started up in 2007 and was developed by Jeff Leatham, the George V's in-house artistic director. Key design elements include a leather and mohair throw, a calfskin grey interior, and a "starlight headliner," which is composed of 800 lights on the car's roof liner for indoor star gazing in the City of Lights. The car is available exclusively to hotel guests, where it can be used for airport pickup, day trips, and business excursions.

If that's not enough for you, this fabulous hotel located off the Champs-Élysées happens to have lots of other creature comforts and carefully-executed design details. Conde Nast Traveler commented that Le Cinq, the hotel's restaurant, has service "that simply boggles the mind," while the rooms are "elegant without being over-the-top." Should you take a look at designer Leatham's description of the hotel's interior, you'll see how much thought goes into each and every detail. Rich fabrics and a Renaissance flourish are only the beginning: the lobby is filled with marble when you first walk into the hotel, fresh floral bouquets cascade in public spots, and state-of-the-art features pepper the rooms of this 1928 landmark. Take some time out for the pool and the Versailles garden mural that wraps around it.

If you ever manage to emerge from your hotel, you'll find that The Four Seasons George V Hotel Paris is perfectly positioned for a stroll by the Seine or to the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. Since the hotel is in the heart of the "Golden Triangle," you can make some upscale picks at the Avenue George V, Rue François 1er, and Avenue Montaigne, where stores like Dior, Céline, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Gian Franco Ferré, and Donna Karan are all located. In a 15 minutes' drive (perhaps in that previously-mentioned Phantom, reserved in advance?), you could check out the Pompidou Center, the Latin Quarter, Musee d'Orsay, Parc des Princes, and St. Germain-des-Pres.

No matter what you need in Paris, staying at The Four Seasons George V Hotel Paris ensures that your whims will be catered to, your shopping bug sated, and your culinary wishes fulfilled. What a stay this will be!

Among the best hotels in Maui

2012-01-02T14:42:00.000-05:00

We're all looking for a bargain these days, but that doesn't mean we need to sell ourselves short. While some vacationers will hunker down in a hostel and brave the raucous crowds, you can have the best of both worlds (affordability and luxury), while enjoying a location that's nothing short of paradise. Have you ever considered going to Hawaii? Amazing deals abound, and if you haven't experienced it yet, you'll be in for a treat. WhataHotel.com isn't just offering Exclusive Complimentary Perks when booking a stay at the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea, but they have an additional offer available: get your fifth night free in the hotel through their current special offer.

The Four Seasons Maui at Wailea is located on the sunny shores of Maui, and you'll instantly start unwinding when you arrive at this award-winning luxury vacation. Located on one of Hawaii's most impressive beaches, the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea has plenty of activities available right on resort grounds. If you take the family along, you can sign the kids up for the complimentary "Kids for All Season" program while taking advantage of outdoor activities like tennis, watersports, and gold courses. Hawaii's only Mobil Five Star Resort has racked up the accolades over the years (including a Conde Nast Traveler designation as the ""#1 Tropical Resort in the World." Sound tempting? Mix in that "5th Night Free" special offer from WhataHotel.com (valid until December 14, 2012 ), and we might just see you there.

You've arrived at the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea. Now what? Besides your hotel diversions, you've got plenty to do in Maui. Start off by going to a luau and trying out Hawaiian cuisine, actually a blend of several culture's best foods, and you can sample kalua pig, poi and haupia, and plenty of buffet snacks that will keep you satisfied. When you're not looking for a luau, you can nosh on fine cuisine from Japanese, Thai, Chinese, Italian, and Vietnamese restaurants—Maui is considered the backbone of Hawaii's dining scene. Don't forget the drawstring pants! When you can't possibly eat a bit more, hop on the hiking trails--there are ones for all levels. Not only will you see plenty of waterfalls, flora, and fauna, but you might just tip over when you catch the view of a sweeping, dark valley in an incredibly lush environment. Go with a guide and a group if you'd like to know more about Maui's key indigenous creatures and notable plants. Too stuffed to walk? Get in a rented car and travel along the Hana Highway, which follows a lava shore and passes by interesting homes and landmarks for 56 miles. For a more hands-on transportation experience, bike rentals are available all over Maui for you to grab and go. Balance out all the physical activity with shopping excursions in Lahaina and Kahului, where you can find handmade crafts and amazing items carved from Hawaii's native wood.

What will it be? While you're soaking up the Hawaii sun, will you be trying out the food, hiking, sightseeing, or exploring—or everything?

Dropping the Ball in NY for NYE

2011-12-30T22:16:00.001-05:00

Who has never spent a New Year’s Eve in New York City? It’s a must do for millions of international tourists, and a definite if you are an American! It’s the “city that never sleeps” and on the last night of the year, every year, they make it one to remember! There is no shortage of things going on all over the city; nightclubs, restaurants, bars, lounges, five-star hotels, and of course the mega-block party in Times Square that brings in close to a million people are among the favorite hits.

If watching that glittering ball drop is up your alley, watching it from a hotel room is one way to up the luxury ante. Times Square is no stranger to hotels, and there are many with the perfect view for watching the big moment. The InterContinental New York Times Square sits perfectly in the middle of it all. The Four Seasons Hotel New York is another option, where the luxuries, amenities, and easy access to all the sites are inherent. Booking with us also entitles you to fantastic, Exclusive Complimentary Perks!

Being on the ground, in that giant Times Square crowd is definitely an experience, however, and despite all the comforts of a swanky room, being in the middle of all the action is something you’ll remember for years to come. I did it in 1998, and recall humorously the thousands upon thousands of people wearing sparkly New Year’s garb like sunglasses and pointed hats with their warmest, because the wind-chill made the temperatures drop below 20 degrees. All the interesting people who came from all corners of the world to be there together, and the kind of unique, maddening energy of a party on that level is such an amazing experience! No matter how many times you see that ball descend on television, it does not compare to seeing it for yourself.

Some of the city’s best hotels will be throwing wild parties of their own, and will surely be great gatherings in gorgeous settings. The Ganesvoort Park Avenue will play host to a spectacular penthouse party. Overflowing with style, stellar New York City views, and an open bar from 9pm through 2am equals one insanely fabulous party! While you can purchase admission, booking a room for the night can make partying that much more indulgent! The Mandarin Oriental New York is holding several different parties at their stunning Columbus Circle hotel. A gala at the 36^th floor Ballroom, featuring amazing views of the city, will be an awesome spot to dance the night away to live music. Other parties in the building will be held at MObar and the Lobby Lounge, where there will be dancing, hors d’oeuvres, and complimentary champagne at midnight.

No one will disagree; New York is a classic, and thrilling place to welcome in the new year. With no end to the parties and options, and excellent places to stay, partying here is a must! Choosing a luxury hotel can make all the difference for your New Year’s stay. Before and after the celebrating, amenities are so nice to come back to. And after the biggest party of the year, it can be expected you will be ready for some pampering on New Year’s Day!

The Clock Strikes "12" First in Sydney

2011-12-29T17:47:00.002-05:00

Of all the world’s major cities, the new year begins in Sydney first. How appropriate, as it is a gorgeous city that knows how to party. For 2012, wild bashes are planned all over the town, and people who will be traveling there are gearing up for what is expected to be the second largest gathering of revelers in the world!

Sydney draws a varied crowd, from young singles to families, backpackers to retirees, and pretty much all imaginable types willing to journey to this metropolis down under. It’s a really hot destination because while much of the world is whiling away with winter, Sydney is enjoying a balmy summer. This makes a very fun environment for getaways because celebrating in warm, open air is so much fun!

While parties can be found everywhere in the city, the main attraction will be the fireworks in Sydney Harbour. I cannot imagine a sight more spectacular than fireworks exploding over the magnificent view of the city, with its landmarks like the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, with the glittering reflection of lights in the bay, speckled with boats. It might just be the most incredibly sight of New Year’s 2012! The show is so spectacular that it can be viewed as far as a 16 kilometer radius! For some, the best way to enjoy the evening is by boat, which allows you to enjoy all of the sights, the fireworks, and the atmosphere without the crowds of the viewing spots in the actual city. Many companies offer a different array of cruises and boating options for enjoying the night from the water. If you prefer to mingle within the energy of the crowd, there are more than enough places to get your fix, however you have to be on it early, as they do fill up fast. The Harbour is expected to be the party sight for over 1.5 million; making it the perfect place to ring in the new year amidst an international crowd gathered together for a single purpose!

Some hotels have stunning views that will allow you to view all of the beauty, without having to leave the building. While all the excitement may appeal to many, it can be nice to enjoy celebrating in more calm and relaxed settings. The Shangri-La Hotel Sydney is exceptionally luxurious, and every room has a water view. A lovely spot for New Year’s, there are several different restaurants and bars within the hotel where you can enjoy all the fun right there! While getting a reservation at this point may be impossible, the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney is a prime location for viewing all the festivities, accommodating all of your needs, and offering exceptional comfort. Then of course, there is the incomparable Observatory Hotel, which has been the recipient of more awards and accolades than any other hotel in all of Australia. Excellent location, views, and the intimate charm of a boutique hotel, this little gem still has rooms available! Whether you want an opulent room to come back to at the end of the night, or want to spend the whole night there, these hotels offer the best!

Sydney consistently tops lists of the best New Year’s fests, and there is very good reason why it is viewed by over a billion on televised broadcasts! The view is mind-blowing no matter where you are, and the lively mood is infectiously fun! Wishing you a happy 2012!

Where Shopping is Better Than Ever!

2011-12-28T01:11:00.003-05:00

The Japanese love their fashion, and equally love to shop. Japanese fashion designers have been on the worldwide mainstream for many years, and Tokyo’s fashion week is never to be missed by those in the industry. Japanese street style is also highly coveted internationally, and we all recognize the iconic, adorable Hello Kitty as an obvious symbol of Japan, appealing to women no matter what their age. Despite worries of a slumping economy, throughout Tokyo over the next few months a slew of new shopping centers are set to open. If you’re into Japanese culture, and are looking to plan a trip to shop, here are some great new reasons why Tokyo's fashion scene is hotter than ever!

Shibuya Hikarie is going to be a mammoth of a commerce center, spanning 34 floors. So major indeed that it will be closely connected to the Japan Railways Shibuya Station, and have its own stops on the closest subway lines. This tower is set to be a hub of epic proportions; the top floors will be designated office spaces, the mid levels will hold a theatre as well as event venues, with the remainder of the building to be a diverse shopping mall called “ShinQs.” It is to be a temple of everything style, aimed at career women in their mid 20’s through 40’s. The first two levels will be entirely devoted to cosmetics products and beauty services. Keeping in line with the modern organics movement, this shopping center is aiming to offer the largest selection of organic and natural products in the entire city. Underground levels will offer gourmet food boutiques as well as restaurants. The range of clothing shops are set to cover all bases, with of course, a hearty offering of designer goods. It definitely sounds like a feast of fashion, and a great place to check out if you’re going to be in Tokyo!

In April, the Tokyo Plaza Omotesando Harajuku will be opening in the heart of Tokyo’s fashion district, at the cross section of two very hot shopping streets. This will be the very best of boutique shopping, featuring awesome Japanese names as well as plenty of American and European brands as well. Knowing that the competition is fierce, what will make this shopping center unlike the rest will be the luscious rooftop garden, offering customers a relaxing green-space in a city of concrete, steel, and glass.

Keeping up with their competition, Uniqlo has plans underway for opening their largest store yet. On March 16 it will be unveiled, located in the exclusive, ultra-luxurious Ginza shopping district. It will span 5,000 square meters and 12 floors, with one common goal: featuring the ever-expanding brand of Uniqlo products. As the brand continues to cement it’s presence internationally, this flagship center will serve as the home base.

If you are planning a trip to Tokyo, here are some of the best hotels to make the stay perfect. All five-star, and offering Exclusive Complimentary Perks when you reserve your stay with us! The Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel, the Grand Hyatt Tokyo, the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, and the Four Seasons Tokyo at Chinzan-so are fabulous, stylish, posh, and cleverly situated to allow a short distance to any of these new shopping locales!

Shopping in Japan is about to get even more exciting with the addition of these three great centers. No matter how bad the economy may be, shopping is still a necessity, and Japan is right on point in keeping it interesting!

The Top Places on the Planet

2011-12-23T23:44:00.008-05:00

Who isn’t compiling a bucket list these days? I hear the term daily, and people seem to be more focused than ever on creating these lists, and preparing themselves to make their personal goals a reality before they (eventually) kick the bucket, no matter what the pricetag. A constant running theme is the recurrence of travel, and visiting spectacular destinations. If money were not an object, oh the places you could visit!

Dubai

Luxury is the only way in Dubai. All the limits of conventional excess are pushed here, and everything is created on a grander scale. It was designed to be the world’s ultimate destination, where the best of the best can always be available, where everyone is treated as if royalty, where whatever the experience is, it will be magnified because it is in Dubai. All of Dubai’s accommodations were designed to take world travel to the next level, and it is one extremely decadent island. The best golf in the world, the World Cup of horse racing, great tennis, and excellent water sports make Dubai loaded with excitement. Offering some of the most lavish shopping anywhere, expect to shop in malls which have been created like marble temples. One of Dubai’s most fascinating hotels is the Burj al Arab, and its signature architecture has left a stunning mark on the city’s skyline.

The French Riviera

Long associated with the rich and famous, the luscious Cote d’Azur is stunning. Glamorous and gorgeous, there is no other scenery like it anywhere in the world. It is the ultimate place to see and be seen, and get pampered while you’re at it! Beach vacations and yachting adventures are prime activities here, and between June and September things get booked up quickly.You can always expect some kind of festival, concert, or art gathering in this culturally-rich area. It is wise to plan ahead and book many months prior to your visit because tourists who wait until they arrive to find a room are all too often out of luck! The abundance of gourmet dining options are phenomenal, and you can be sure to spend big eating well! The most incredible place to stay in Cannes is the Intercontinental Carlton Cannes Hotel. Luxury, the exquisite French service, and the waterfront location are stunning!

Singapore

An island nation and city, Singapore is highly prized for offering an incredible quality of life. The locals are considered some of the happiest people on earth, and demographically it is a very diverse nation. The perfect place to sink into the local cultural mix, enjoy the unbelievable cuisines that vary from Indian, Malaysian, Chinese, and European. As the fourth largest financial center in the world, there is a massive amount of money flowing into this Southeast Asian nation. While the country sits on a relatively small accumulation of land, which is quite urbanized to accommodate the population, great measures are kept to maintain the natural environments and ecosystems. The decadence here is laid back, and you have the best offerings of a wealthy metropolis as well as a variety of cultures, and ecotourism pursuits. Interestingly, the shopping isn’t much to mention; pretty much the same round of big names you’d find anywhere. The Four Seasons Hotel Singapore is a luxuriant oasis amidst the bustling city, and is the ideal pad to unwind at. While it is located in the city’s central area, it remains an intimate sanctuary. An amazing feature of this hotel is that it owns a collection of Asian art encompassing more than 1,500 pieces.

Milan

Italy’s fashion focal point, if you love to shop then Milan is calling your name. Many have gone very broke, spending way too much on beautiful things here. There is nothing like the quality of Italian fashion, and Milan is home to many of Italy’s top names in the industry. Fashion week here is no joke either; for those with inexhaustible bank accounts and a love of Italian couture, it’s the perfect time to see what the designers have showcased for upcoming seasons. The Four Seasons Hotel Milan is located quickly within walking distance of the couture houses, the prime location for proper shopping. An intimate gem, this hotel holds only 118 suites and rooms, it was originally a convent in the 15^th century.

Moscow

The world’s most expensive city, is a paradise for those who love history, architecture, culture, and shopping. Anyone who visits is keenly aware of the pristine condition the city and it’s monuments are kept in. You can tour cathedrals that date back to the 15^th century and experience a wealth of art throughout the city in galleries and museums. As far as excitement goes, the most decadent things about Moscow are the shopping at the exclusive Red Square and witnessing the city’s vibrant nightlife, where you can expect to party with billionaires. At most of the clubs, you must be extremely well-dressed, attractive, and loaded with cash if you expect to get in the door. Some of the richest locals claim dropping as much as $40,000 in a single night of partying in Moscow. For this crowd, the limits of opulence have no boundaries! The Ritz Carlton Moscow is located very close to Red Square, giving you perfect access to everything, while offering the finest accommodations available.

The world is chock full of destinations that are highly expensive, where the luxuries can top all others, where being lavished is the only way, and enjoying them has been known to break the bank for some! If money was not a boundary, where would you go for your fix of indulgences?

North America’s Priciest Ski Town

2011-12-22T23:27:00.006-05:00

World class skiing, lively cultural offerings, excellent restaurants, a vast number of natural sites, and superb hotels make Vail the reigning destination for all of North American ski destinations. While skiing is often associated with spending big bucks, you won’t do it better than in Vail. Here is a little info as to why this lovely snow village is so hot!

If you let your mind wander onto the topic of ski towns, Aspen, Telluride, Sun Valley, Stowe, and Park City also come to mind as prime locations for a ski trip. But the real deal, as far as luxury goes is Vail. Although not as glitzy as Aspen, it's totally decked with every amenity possible, with it’s own unique vibe and charm. Recently, it was determined that all costs combined, from hotel rooms, to ski lifts, ski rentals, meals, and other attractions, Vail listed as North America’s most expensive place to ski. While you may raise an eyebrow, it is true that Vail has overthrown Aspen in luxury, popularity, and offerings. Vail is known for offering attentive, detailed service, and as a town they do it very well. Part of the price, yes, and worth every penny!

A huge part of Vail’s appeal is their great roster of resorts. Each is incredible, and provides different settings for enjoying the town. Reserve your stay with us, and you will enjoy the addition of our Exclusive Complimentary Perks! Here are some of the fine offerings:

The Four Seasons Resort Vail is perhaps the finest of all, and will envelop you in its “grand alpine” atmosphere. The slopes cater to all skiers and snowboarders, no matter the level. With an exceptional ski concierge that will pamper your entire skiing experience, it is very easy to get comfortable here. Their spa is also worthy of a visit, where you can indulge in a host of custom treatments. As a resort that welcomes families as well as couples, in true Four Seasons’ fashion, there are many amenities designed for those with children such as complimentary meals for children five and under, as well as providing toys and equipment for making their stay more at ease and comfortable.

Manor Vail Lodge is a major alternative from the quintessential resort. Like the name says, it’s a lodge, and you will not find a more perfect one! This is the perfect location for visitors who are looking to savor all the nature Vail offers, while providing easy access to the slopes. Walking distance from the Betty Ford Botanical Garden, with bike trails, a golf course, hiking, and all the skiing your heart could possibly desire, you are surrounded by all the best nature Vail has. Everything about this lodge is warm and inviting; their motto is “It’s all right here” and that is no mistake!

The Arrabelle, Vail Square offers the essence of Europe in the epicenter of Vail Square. Luxury down to the most minute of details, you will be immersed in elegance. All the while, you are privileged to take part in all of Vail’s adventurous outdoor activities, especially skiing, and also the great nightlife, restaurants, and shopping.

Skiing is clearly a luxury sport, and entails amazing luxury vacations. Those who are devotees will travel to the ends of the earth, scaling incredible mountains for that exhilarating thrill. A huge part of the enjoyment, however, lies in the luxuries that come with staying in a fabulous ski resort. Unlike so many other sports, skiing is best savored with endless amenities. Going hand-in-hand, there is no shortage of five-star resorts that cater to the desires of skiers in Vail!

Christmas in Paris

2011-12-20T23:58:00.007-05:00

Paris did not earn the nickname “City of Light” without being able to back it up, and come Christmastime, the spectacular of lights is out of this world! Like everything else, Paris does it in their own signature, classy way which promises to leave an imprint on your memory. At least once in your lifetime you should visit Paris during Christmas!

There really is so much to take in that it can be hard to know where to begin. The displays of light can literally be seen everywhere, on the streets, courtyards, and stores, in brilliant and very artistic renderings. The City of Light does light better than anywhere else in the world, and the elaborately designed exhibitions throughout the city will seriously take your breath away. The atmosphere just glitters! On Christmas Day itself, you can go traditional, and enjoy mass at one of the many famous cathedrals, including midnight mass at Notre Dame. Or, if you are looking for a different kind of excitement than that which you’ll find in the pews, many of the city’s hottest clubs promise a festive time as well.

Paris’ famous Christmas markets are absolutely not to be missed. Here you find the most beautiful and unique gifts and ornaments, all the while enjoying the sights and sounds that fill you up with holiday cheer. Whether your trip is pre-Christmas, or you are celebrating the holiday in Paris entirely, no trip will be complete this time of year without spending some time at the Christmas markets. Paris’ Trocadero holds one of the best!

Perusing the well-known shopping areas and the shops lining the streets, you will have the pleasure of viewing the holiday window displays, which offer decked out holiday scenes and creations. These offer an intense view of Paris’ customary creativity and inventiveness. It isn’t called “window shopping,” the most closely translated word comes out to “window licking” because the offerings are just that delectable- edible and otherwise! A Christmas tree trimmed with nothing but Louboutins? Sounds like every girl’s dream at their storefront. The Chanel display at Printemps features moving Karl Lagerfeld dolls under a starry Paris sky; a humorous take on an often very serious brand. And then there are the sparkling, yet dangerous-looking glass snowflakes dangling in the window at Burberry, which beckon the eyes with their tempting beauty.

And like any good vacation, Christmas in Paris would not be done well without a lovely five-star stay. Of course a city of this magnitude has no shortage of excellent hotels, but here are the top picks. The Four Seasons Paris George V, Hotel de Crillon, and perhaps one of Paris’ most famous, Ritz Paris, will provide abundant sumptuous surroundings to retreat to.

Oh, glittering “City of Light” with your dazzling streets, unique artistry, and unparalleled shopping, you are even more fun during Christmastime!

Christmas in the Catalan Style

2011-12-19T23:52:00.037-05:00

Quite different than the West, and a far cry from the Nordic traditions, Christmas in Spain is a very different spectacle. Both in belief and the way things get celebrated, the whole mood is more relaxed, more focused on the fun events. It’s a holiday with a much more Biblical emphasis, and only a mere smidgen of the Norse and Germanic notions incorporated in. Santa, Christmas trees, reindeer, and snowmen just don’t fit the bill, and are only seen in small increments. The North Pole really has nothing to do with the holiday here, and it’s the Three Kings that are the bearers of gifts. The celebration is much longer, beginning on Christmas Eve, Dec 24, and lasting through January 6, on what is known as Epiphany, or Dia de los Reyes. That culminating day is when the gifts arrive. In those two weeks, mass preparations ensue for the holiday, and it is an incredible time to experience all Barcelona can offer with a different mindset than the rest of the year.

While Christmas everywhere holds a great sense of beauty, in the Catalan tradition, artistry is deeply ingrained in all parts of the celebration. The icon of Christmas here is the Nativity, and you can find them everywere, and often highly decorated. While gift-giving is a big part of the holiday, it isn’t the main focus. Christmas is far less commercialized, and not centered on shopping. The simpler pleasures are what most locals look forward to, and there are many to enjoy. Lights are hung in beautiful intricate designs decorating the streets, and people love to amble in awe of them as they eat freshly roasted chestnuts, purchased from street vendors. There are concerts, parades, and the wild Christmas swim, where hundreds of residents and visitors alike go for a splash in the Mediterranean’s wintery water. As for the parade, known as the cabalgata, imagine something of a cross between carnival and a Nativity scene. It is held on January 5th, and marks the arrival of the Three Kings. Their entrance into Barcelona, is a widely celebrated event, drawing in thousands of onlookers as their massive ship sails into the city’s harbor. Upon disembarking, they will be prominently featured in the parade. Other highlights include the fantastic costumes, fun choreography, men on stilts, archers, floats, sculptures with disco balls, and a massive clock carried through the parade, reminding the children bedtime is near!

In line with true traditions, certain dishes are customary during the Christmas and Dia de los Reyes celebrations. If you visit, these are not to be missed! Sopa de galet, canelones, turkey stuffed with truffles, turron, which is a nougat made of almonds, and a massive feast of all varieties of shellfish. On Dia de los Reyes, the final day, expect to eat at Escriba, Barcelona’s highly prized bakery. Hordes of people wait in long lines to take home the celebratory cake, the roscon, which is a confectionary marvel of brioche, marzipan, and studded with candied fruit.

For hotels, these are some of the best spots for optimum luxury in Barcelona: El Palace Hotel Barcelona, Le Meridien Barcelona, Hotel Arts Barcelona, and the Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona.

Christmastime may be one of the city’s best-kept secrets. A less Western celebration, with a lot of Mediterranean influence and religion laced in. Culturally and visually it really is gorgeous, the exoticness offers a new way to enjoy the season.

Spend the Cheese!

2011-12-18T23:59:00.006-05:00

With plenty of five-star, remarkable hotels out there in the world, choosing the best one for an unforgettable New Year’s may be a challenge. The location needs to be anything but lame, and the pad needs to be outrageously fab. And if you have an excess of funds, spending on one of the most exclusive suites will get your year off to a blazing start! Here are the options!

Wakaya Royal Suite, Wakaya Club, Fiji $7,600 Per Night

Relax in the splendor of total seclusion and tropical serenity in the elite Wakaya Royal Suite. The Wakaya Club is not in any way ordinary; it is a private island resort, and you can be sure that when you are staying in their most prized of suites, you will be pampered beyond your wildest dreams! Ringing in 2012 here will definitely have you rejuvenated as your year begins.

The Brook Penthouse Suite, Claridge’s, London $8,600 Per Night

Nearly 2,000 square feet of pure decadance, the Brook Penthouse Suite is the perfect spot to throw a killer party in for the big night. In one of London’s most prestigious hotels, this suite was designed for the most incredible kinds of entertaining. Elegant décor, lavish surroundings, and a private rooftop terrace will provide a stellar backdrop, making every penny spent well worth it!

Peninsula Suite, Peninsula Hong Kong $9,200

Perhaps the best views in all of Hong Kong can be seen from the Peninsula Suite. The Peninsula Hong Kong is no joke; it is considered one of the best hotels in the world, and there is very good reason why. To book this suite for the mere price of $9,200 per night almost seems to be a steal when you start imagining the kind of parties you can hold here. Panoramic vistas of Victoria Harbor and the dazzling Hong Kong skyline from the 26^th floor, 4,000 luxurious square feet, an always-ready mini-bar, and a fitness center make this suite unbelievable! Definitely one of the coolest places to party the night away in- no bar or club can compare!

The Presidential Suite, Hotel Martinez, Cannes France $18,000 Per Night

This suite is one of the world’s most infamously expensive suites, in one of Europe's most revered hotels. It has held the likes of royalty as well as many of the rich and famous, and boasts the most amazing terrace in the South of France. The view from the 1,000 square foot veranda is gorgeous, overlooking the Bay of Cannes, and can set the scene for a very nice New Year's Eve celebration. Suffice it to say, the type of party to be had here is simply out of this world, and what dreams are made of.

The Penthouse Suite, The Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills, Ca. $25,000 Per Night (+Tax)

Decadence, luxury, and the most expansive guest quarters of any hotel in the city, it can only be imagined the soirees that have happened in these digs. “Exclusive” does not even begin to describe the suite; it’s on it’s own level! Strategically placed at the top floor, with floor-to-ceiling windows presenting views of the LA skyline and the Hollywood Hills. 5,000 square feet of pure style, built for entertaining in extreme opulence, this suite will make for the New Year’s Eve party to end all others. There are not many hotel rooms anywhere that can compare!

Ending the year with a tone of grand finality, wouldn’t it be fun to check in to one of the most expensive, and utterly exclusive suites in the world? Whether you're one of the privileged few who can reserve one of these suites, or if you have to settle for a room elsewhere in the hotel, our Exclusive Complimentary Perks will add that much more to your trip! However you do it, party hard in total decadence; you’ll be sure to make 2012 a year to remember!

5 Star Christmas Spirit

2011-12-17T23:35:00.004-05:00

Many luxury hotels go above and beyond, doing quite a number to keep the Christmas spirit alive and well for their guests. This year, these following hotels are offering a really great, festive atmosphere!

The Plaza Hotel, New York

A fun little bit of history happens this year at the Plaza. For their first ever Christmas tree, the hotel used “Eloise” as inspiration, and a fabulous, 18-foot, fully decked-out pink tree was designed by none other than Betsey Johnson. Eloise is a character from the story books by Kay Thompson, with illustrations by Hilary Knight, and she lived in the hotel’s top floor. A tea party was held to reveal the tree, and by staying there this holiday season, you can see it with your very own eyes! It will be on display until January 4^th, 2012.

Four Seasons Hotel, Boston

What child would not be awestruck by a towering Christmas tree made of nothing but teddy bears? As a matter of fact, what adult wouldn’t be as well? Staying at the Four Seasons in Boston this year, you will be amazed by the sweet site of this tree that is a widespread favorite among Christmas connoisseurs. In upward of 5,000 bears are collected, and then donated throughout the city to children by hospitals and non-profit organizations.

Claridge’s London

Claridge’s is definitely London’s premier spot for five-star hotel chic. Every year, Claridge’s enlists a prized designer to design the holiday’s decorations and set the theme. This year’s lucky arbiter of Christmas decadence is the amazing Alber Elbaz for Lanvin. The signature Christmas tree is boldly colorful, and full of whimsy little details that speak clearly of the designer’s trademark. Sriously, who would not be tickled by the site of the marionettes donning Lanvin hotel uniforms?

Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong

If you are headed to Hong Kong this season, the Mandarain Oriental does Christmas a little differently than in the West. Certainly celebratory, the Mandarin Cake Shop really knows how to set the mood in terms of holiday sweets, and that is their signature specialty. Edible ornaments and decorations will have your sweet tooth savoring. The list of creations is magnificent, and these are definitely not your ordinary confectionary replicas. Think more true-to-life versions, created with the skilled craftsmanship of very talented pastry chefs. Teddy bears, rocking horses, and Santa are like none you’ve ever seen, or tasted. These will make excellent stocking stuffers for some very special loved ones!

Nothing like "home for the holidays?" I beg to differ. Especially if one of these hotels will be on your radar. What better way is there to enjoy all the fun of the holidays than in a festive five-star pad? Definitely your best option, because you will have all the luxuries of home without the nagging distractions that come along with it. Add in all the other Exclusive Complimentary Perks, great amenities, and the absolute comfort a hotel can offer during the busiest time of the year and great times will be had! Wishing you the happiest of holidays!

Planning for the Year Ahead: 2012 Events Worth Traveling For

2011-12-15T23:53:00.002-05:00

If you are looking to book a vacation in 2012 at some point, here are some major events that are going to be happening across the globe. Whether it’s a destination you were initially planning on, or one you did not consider, these are sure to be awesome events definitely worth the journey! Get booking soon, and don’t forget about our Exclusive Complimentary Perks when you reserve with us!

Feb 5, Super Bowl, Indianapolis, Indiana
If you can get tickets, and love football, here’s your chance to party with all of America! While we in the states love all types of sports, when it comes to team sports, football is number 1! The national championship always promises a fierce game, a great show, and the finest commercials of the year. Being at the stadium for the game means the party is going to be in full-swing, and your mind will be blown!
Where to Stay: Conrad Indianapolis

Feb 18-21, Mardi Gras, New Orleans, or Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro
Two enormous parties, one common cause- celebrating with fervor! Rio’s carnaval is the biggest party in the world every year, and it’s magnitude can only be understood if you have experienced it. Stateside, Mardi Gras in New Orleans promises an equally fantastic shindig, and will surely fulfill the need for any debauchery you may have!
Where to Stay: The Roosevelt New Orleans, or The Copacabana Palace, Rio de Janeiro

Mar 1-4, Heineken Regatta, St. Maarten
A huge party on the water for the whole weekend is an excellent reason to head to the Caribbean. If you dig boat races, warm weather, and beachside fun, this event will make a great weekend getaway. Lots of parties and performances just add to the revelry. Stay in St. Barts to escape the craziness, and charter a boat over for the excitement.
Where to Stay: Hotel Guanahani & Spa

Apr 20-27, National Cherry Blossom Festival, Washington DC
A national celebration of the intoxicatingly beautiful cherry blossoms as they take over the capitol. Around the world, wherever these trees grow, they are heralded for their stunning beauty. This year, a parade and kite contest will honor the “100th Anniversary of the Gift of Trees.”
Where to Stay: The W Washington DC

May 26-27 Memorial Day Weekend, San Francisco, Golden Gate Festival
Head to the city on the bay for Memorial Day weekend! In the city with flawless weather, you can certainly expect perfection this time of year. This is a great opportunity to visit as it is the 75th anniversary of the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the most famous bridges in the world, and the crown jewel of San Francisco’s many landmarks. The Golden Gate Festival will be going on, and it will be filled with history and SF’s own unique brand of partying.
Where to Stay: The Taj Campton Place

July 22-30 The Tour de France, From Belgium to France
Celebrating the 99th year of two-wheel racing thrills, this 3-week journey offers you plenty of options for enjoying the excitement. Whether you want to tour along, or just pick a few idyllic spots to see the racers fly by, it’s France in the summer, and it will be lovely.
Where to Stay: Hotel de Crillon, Paris

July 27- Aug 12 Summer Olympics, London
Here’s your chance, it only comes once every four years, to witness athletic history on a worldwide level! Tickets for events are currently on sale, so if you are coveting seats to something in particular, get on the move, and get them ordered. And while you’re at it, don’t wait a minute longer to reserve your room in a swanky, five-star hotel!
Where to Stay: Four Seasons Hotel, Canary Wharf

Oct. 6-14 International Balloon Fiesta, Albuquerque New Mexico
This sight is pretty amazing; bold, colorful hot air balloons against an a cerulean sky! Whether you crave the excitement of floating in one, or prefer the view from the ground without the daunting height, this is one spectacle for the eyes! A family-friendly event, no matter what your age, you will be amazed. This event holds some fantastic bragging rights: it is the most photographed event in the world, the greatest international annual event that happens in the US, and is the largest event for ballooning in the world.
Where to Stay: The Inn and Spa at Loretto

Nov. 3-4 Sleepless Night, Miami Beach
Miami is no stranger to non-stop partying. It’s patrons are very well known for raging till the sun rises, and then hitting the beach to watch it ascend above the horizon. If there is one thing this city does well, it is nightlife. Sleepless Night is just a testament to that, with all varieties of art possible, being offered throughout the night. From clubbing to opera, pop art to yoga, poetry to aerial dance performances; if it is happening culturally, it’s going on this night. 2011’s Sleepless Night drew a crowd of 130,000 people, and 2012 is expected to be even bigger!
Where to Stay: The Ritz Carlton, South Beach

Need a special reason to travel? Make sure you don’t miss any of the fun in 2012 by planning ahead! It’s always a great idea to travel with a purpose, and when there is something interesting going on in a particular destination, all the better.

History Through the Four Seasons

2011-12-13T23:33:00.014-05:00

History is made when a person of great insight can predict what many others are going to want in the future. Isadore Sharp did just that when he opened his first hotel in a less than desirable area of Toronto. Now one of the most trusted names in luxury, Four Seasons guarantees optimal levels of service, performance, and above all, attention to the guest. The idea was to pamper every guest and treat them extraordinarily, and it was a formula that has built a billion-dollar empire. Here is the Four Season's story.

Founded in 1961, Four Seasons changed the face of modern luxury travel. It was a concept new to the industry, and the burgeoning architect and developer Isadore Sharp, took a lot of heat getting his idea off the ground. After five years of trying to convince investors, he finally had the backing to make it happen. The Four Seasons opened its very first hotel on the very first day of spring 1961, in Toronto, Canada. The pinnacle standard of luxury was not yet a mainstay, but catering to the needs of business travelers who sought more comfortable offerings certainly was. The idea was brilliant, and was instantly a hit with customers.

Within two years, with success so profound, a second location was opened in a different part of Toronto. An urban resort, situated atop a hill overlooking vast green-spaces, the hotel was also home to one of the best restaurants in the city. Suffice it to say, it also received immediate success.

The next big breakthrough came when plans were made to develop a hotel in London. A contrast to the business-hotel idea, Sharp wanted to go in the direction of ultra-luxury, to compete directly with hotels like Claridge’s and the Connaught, which relied on status and old-world glamour to maintain their elite eminence. This success was a major turning point, and it set the standard by which the Four Seasons Brand is known for today. Competing directly with hotels of this magnitude, and doing a fantastic job at it, Four Seasons hotels are highly regarded for their reputation of stellar service and ability to consistently please their guests. One staple in nearly all Four Seasons Resorts and Hotels are the top-notch spa facilities, as well as the numerous fine-dining establishments. Awarded by both Zagat and Michelin for many of their restaurants internationally, when you eat at a Four Season’s restaurant, you know you’re getting the best.

In 1974, seeing the need to push the brand further into a different direction, the company found a more viable future in managing hotel properties under the Four Seasons umbrella. This was a totally intelligent alternative to the complications that come with developing land, as well as buying and building hotels. Always expanding, they can now focus their strengths on bringing the Four Seasons brand to cities where they will have the most influence.

The Four Seasons brand changed the way hotels treated their guests, and among those who travel lavishly, they are a brand that symbolizes quality, excellent service, and the best treatment a hotel staff can offer. From LA to Tokyo; New York to Paris, there is no comparison. As "Preferred Partners" with the Four Seasons brand, we have the ability to offer Exclusive Complimentary Perks, which add tremendous value to any stay in any of their hotels. Booking with us automatically entitles you to these privileges, ensuring you an even more luxurious visit!

The Magic of Europe's Christmas Markets

2011-12-12T23:56:00.004-05:00

Gazing at my Christmas tree, the ornaments that strike me the most are the ones that came from my mother’s European vacations over the years. Glass pieces from Murano, Danish blue-and-white porcelain, and hand-painted wooden eggs from Russia are my favorites. They add so much character, and such a sentimental touch to my Christmas decorating. Christmas is a very extravagant affair on the other side of the pond, and not only do they really prepare all year long for the holiday, but right before, the whole continent erupts with a festive spirit. Traditions go back a very long way, and while Christmas has its roots in both the Biblical scriptures and the ancient winter solstice observances, the modern-day celebrations have roots that go back centuries.

The European Christmas markets are a festive tradition. Always held outdoors, you will find handmade toys, ornaments, and gifts. Browsing the booths, with a warm, mulled wine in hand as freshly made sausages, roasted chestnuts and gingerbread fill the air, you absolutely must try everything! The following are the best of the best Christmas markets that should not be missed, for they will certainly set your holiday spirit straight!

Brussels, Belgium

The Brussel’s Christmas market features vendors from all over the world, with fantastic local offerings. Belgian cuisine is fancied across the globe for its sophistication and palatability, so it goes as no surprise that you will find chocolates, beer, Belgian waffles, croustillons in ample proportions! Every evening light and music shows are put on, plus there is an ice-skating rink, and a Ferris wheel that add to the excitement!

Stay at: The Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo

Copenhagen, Denmark

Perhaps the finest of all the Christmas markets of Europe, Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens is a spectacle! This amusement park gets transformed into a shimmering wonderland four miles long. These lights are intricately arranged by Tiffany’s head designer, creating a brilliant, gorgeous display. If that were not enough, an additional 1,800 strands of lights are used to light up the willow trees along the lake. With a crafts market offering local artisan creations, some of the most beautiful handcrafts in all of Europe will be found here. Piping hot mulled wine and iced doughnuts topped with black currant preserves are the local treats of choice here.

Stay at: The Radisson BLU Royal Hotel, Copenhagen

Nuremburg, Germany

One of Europe’s largest markets, drawing in 2 million visitors every year, it is the essence of German Christmas celebrations. It is highly regarded as “authentic” and much effort is placed on keeping it within tradition. German crafts, toys, and ornaments galore, this Christmas market goes on until December 24, and is the perfect place to find genuine German gifts and holiday décor!

Stay at: The Villa Kennedy, Frankfurt

Prague, Czech Republic

With two major markets in the city located next to each other, you must check out both! A beautiful, towering Christmas tree, a petting zoo, and the most gorgeous findings imaginable! Any gifts you bring back from these markets will have your loved ones swooning. The artisan jewelry, Bohemian crystal, and classic wooden toys are to die for! While you shop, enjoy the savory holiday treats such as honey ginger bread, and sip the customary hot mulled wine! If you stay through Christmas, on Christmas Eve the traditional dinner includes delicious carp and wine sausages.

Stay at: The Four Seasons Hotel, Prague

This is the storybook Christmas, where the magical sights and aromas of the season overwhelm you with happiness; not stress! The Christmas Markets of Europe hark back to the old-world, which is kept beautifully alive in this tradition. These markets are a far cry from the mass consumerism, anxiety, and ordinariness of the mainstream mall shopping experience. Happy holidays!

Christmas in the Capitol

2011-12-10T23:58:00.004-05:00

Christmas is the biggest holiday of the year in America, and the nation’s capitol does a fantastic job getting the holiday spirit on in full swing. All over the town you can expect showy displays of Christmas cheer, elaborate exhibits of lights, and of course, there is the White House extravaganza.

If you are looking for somewhere in the US to visit around the holidays, DC makes a wonderful destination. Offering history, a patriotic atmosphere, and a myriad of options for enjoying the season. Booking your stay at the gorgeous Madison Hotel, the W Washington DC, the Mandarin Oriental, or the Four Seasons, which are the city’s very best hotels, will definitely be the icing on your holiday cake, no matter what your calendar of events may hold. Be sure to keep us in mind when you book, because our Exclusive Complimentary Perks one-up the competition, and shower you with additional benefits!

All over the capitol, there are major light displays. And no matter what your religious denomination may be, do you ever get tired of over-the-top Christmas lights? They are just so magical! ZooLights at the National Zoo promises to be an excellent outing for the whole family, with animated lights, seasonal crafting, and ice sculpture demos. With free admission, it is certainly worth checking out. In nearby Maryland, the Winter Lights at Seneca Creek State Park puts on a spectacle that stretches 3.5 miles. The Annmarie Garden in Lights at the Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center takes a mythical approach to their light display. Featuring handmade sculptures of light including creatures such as fierce beasts, illuminated art, pirates, and wild animals. Definitely worth a visit is the National Christmas Tree. A symbol of hope and national solidarity, every year it is decorated with ornaments that are sent in from every other state.

The White House alone does Christmas in very opulent, very vibrant ways. Volunteers from 36 different states worked tirelessly to make sure every detail was ready for company. 37 trees, of which 30 are “real” trees, and the additional 7 range from consisting of paper, aluminum, wool felt. A gingerbread house modeled after the White House, and consisting of over 400 lbs of gingerbread, marzipan, and white chocolate will definitely whet your appetite! One of our national treasures, Bo Obama, the first dog has been the inspiration for the creation of many different replicas, ornaments, and even cookies.

America’s most important holiday of the year is no joke in Washington DC. The whole town, as well as neighboring towns go to the extreme to make sure the holiday cheer is as infectious, and spirited as possible! DC celebrates with fun and fervor, sparkle and lights, and a great attitude, most of all. Happy Holidays!

Luxurious Ski Resorts for the Avid Non-Skier

2011-12-08T23:46:00.006-05:00

Often nestled into gorgeous mountain settings, with sensational views, exquisite fine dining, and decadent spas, a luxury ski resort can provide abundant amounts of bliss. While skiing may be the biggest draw, there are a lot of other reasons these five star sanctuaries bring people back year after year. The following are among the best five-star ski resorts that offer non-skiers plenty of reasons to visit.

Salzburg, Austria is a lovely destination for people who want to enjoy the delights of culture, the phenomenal natural surroundings, great shopping, and the magnificent Bad Gestein hot springs. If there are skiers in your group, they’ll be happy to know they have easy access to some of Austria’s finest slopes. For those of you with other pursuits, Salzburg will delight you with the rich history. The Hotel Goldener Hirsch has a long, 600-year-old past, and is literally located within walking distance of Mozart’s home, making Salzburg the ideal place to enjoy authentic Austrian culture and surroundings.

The Montage Deer Valley, Utah is a wintertime gem. Offering so many different amenities and rich surroundings, a getaway spent here will nourish all of your senses. While this property has received the highest possible rankings from SKI Magazine every year since 2008, it is so much more than just a place to stay at while you ski. The ambiance is warm, yet never ostentatious, with a running theme of craftsman design. The architecture stays true to the region, and the resort holds a vast collection of local artwork. The rooms have been created to showcase the splendor of the Wasatch Mountains with excellent views. You are invited to unwind wholeheartedly while basking in the glow of the gas fireplace, which are staples of every suite and guestroom. The spa is a massive 35,000 square foot space that provides distinct services with an alpine flair, in addition to fitness classes. Superb dining options include gourmet, grilled fare at Apex, and sports pub classics at Daly’s Pub & Rec, which is also part bowling alley. Fun things in the area to check out include the Kimball Art Center, and catching a show at the Egyptian Theatre.

Stowe, Vermont is a luxurious and untouched location, and the Stowe Mountain Lodge is the premier place to stay. While it may be known as a ski town, the area is filled with natural beauty, and no matter what season, hiking here is to die for. With 50 nearby restaurants, spectacular scenic offerings, and Vermont’s first Audubon sanctuary, this pristine New England destination is as exciting as it is relaxing. The Stowe Mountain Lodge has one of the best spas in the area, and is a definitive must if you visit. This resort makes every effort to source local artisan products, while exemplifying the connection to the local culture, resulting in a very authentic experience.

So freezing temperatures, sliding around on slippery skis on icy, snow covered mountains may not be your thing. Whether the adrenaline of the adventure holds no cache for you, or you simply have no care for braving the elements while getting your thrills, it is perfectly okay if skiing is not for you. That means you have every opportunity to take full advantage of all the other amenities that await you at the best ski resorts!

I luv you Miami!

2011-12-08T00:46:00.003-05:00

Miami now offers another great reason to visit if you're a fan of America's favorite pastime - baseball.
With a new name, and a sparkling new stadium comes a fantastic new identity for both the Major League Marlins and Miami itself.

With two national championships behind them, great weather for being outdoors, and the vibe of a city that lives for fun, it would seem that baseball was the perfect fit. Strangely however, for one reason or another the stars could not align to make baseball work in the magic city. Until now, with much redesigning and a whole lot of rebuilding, things are looking highly positive for the Marlins. The name change was brilliant; it connects them directly to the city of their home base, and has a much nicer ring to it; the “Miami Marlins!”

Nothing can make a team feel more refreshed than having a stadium of their very own, and that is exactly what Marlins Ballpark is. Freed from what was one of the worst stadium leases in the history of MLB, it was definitely hard for the Marlins to feel at “home” in the stadium of another team, of a totally different sport. Previous average attendance lolled around 19,000, and they are expecting to bring that number up to 30,ooo, while the maximum capacity is approximately 37,000.

Marlins Ballpark will make for a great visit, even if baseball isn’t your thing. A state-of-the-art beauty, it will have a retractable roof, and the largest surrounding plaza of any stadium in the US. Two aquariums will be stationed on both sides of the home plate, serving as a backstop. The food court will serve delicacies such as croquetas, exceptional sushi, and stone crabs when in season. To the left of the field, there is a swimming pool, which will be available only to those with paid access.

If you are considering Miami as a destination, here’s just one more incentive! Baseball is a tradition, and the new stadium promises to blow your mind with it’s coolness. It sure doesn’t hurt that two of Miami’s best five-star hotels are within perfect range for staying conveniently. The Four Seasons Miami, and the Mandarin Oriental are situated close by, and both options will provide the ideal place to retreat back to.

Miami is a very multicultural, very Latin city, and as much as baseball is America’s pastime, it is also a major Latin pastime as well. With that said, it’s about time that proper attention has been paid to develop the Marlins into the team they were meant to be. This coming spring, if you are going to be in Miami, make sure you pay Marlins Ballpark a visit!

Ringing in 2012 Lavishly

2011-12-06T13:06:00.004-05:00

We’ve been hearing it for years, urban legends and ancient legends, tying the year 2012 to the apocalypse, spiritual enlightenment, and all kinds of crazy myths; remember all the hype for 2000? The best way to prepare yourself for the inevitable unknown is to really go all out and have yourself an absolutely amazing time. Here are some of the biggest parties being planned around the world. They're all sure to be a ridiculously great time if you can get yourself there. Make sure your stay is five-star for the ultimate experience and book with us for the added value of our Exclusive Complimentary Perks!

A Little of Everything in Brazil
Brazil is pretty well-known for putting on incredible parties, and this year, the Copacabana Palace is the hottest place to be in all of Rio. If you are considering hitting Brazil for a party, this may be the very best one. With three different events that are also open to patrons who are not guests, you can party by the pool, party in their restaurants, or party on the beach. The parties will have gourmet buffets and nonstop Veuve Clicquot as well as other fine wines, champagnes, and top shelf liquors, all included in the price. Staying at this gorgeous spot gives you access to all of Rio’s attractions, and has you perfectly situated between Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, and every single room has a balconey. Live music, DJ’s, dance floors, and the beach will have you living up the last night of the year!

Fireworks on the Bay: San Francisco
200,000 people strong, at the Embarcadero and along the waterfront will be watching the fireworks extravaganza over the Golden Gate Bridge at the strike of midnight. While this is a fantastic site, it does not involve anything else, leaving you ample time to party before and after at some of the city’s fine gatherings. Most of San Fran's hottest clubs have crazy parties planned. The Masquerade Ball with the SF Symphony is sure to be a good time, with packages that begin at 6pm, including dinner, dancing, and a variety of different musical acts. Stay at the Four Seasons Hotel for proper luxury, comfort, and five-star amenities when your partying has come to an end.

Rock Out Cape Town
Cape Town has become a huge place to visit for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Book your stay at the One & Only Cape Town for superb African aesthetics, exemplar service, and enough decadence to set you up right should the world end. The whole place gets lit up for the biggest night of the year, and all kinds of parties happen. It sure doesn’t hurt that Cape Town is such a beautiful city, and provides an enormous amount of eye candy. Street parties, fashion parties, and loads of nightlife await you. If you’re not up for shaking it dance party style, hit Rock the River SA III for live rock music in natural surroundings, away from the commotion of the city. A quick 20 minutes drive from Cape Town, and over 100 different bands, this party gets bigger every year. And when the night ends, perhaps after the sun rise, retreat to your lavish room and rekindle the party continue when you awaken for brunch!

Dance the Night Away in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is always a town for serious partying, and if you are looking for the best clubbing, this is your destination. There are a slew of parties throughout the city that are looking very promising. Amsterdam’s largest is at the Museumplein, with live bands, DJ’s, and fireworks. Make sure to stay at the Hotel Pulitzer, where the luxurious surroundings will be the perfect antidote for hangovers. With a fabulous location, and décor that is both modern and traditionally historical, its beauty is refreshing. The excellent culinary experience of the hotel’s restaurant, Pulitzers will make the ideal first meal of the new year.

End 2011 with a bang, and hail in 2012 with the party of all parties- wherever you choose to be! 2012 is supposed to promise all kinds of “big” things- the year of the dragon, the age of Aquarius, the end of the world, and who really knows what else! As the future is always uncertain, make sure you party hard just in case!

Get Out of Town and Escape the Holiday Madness!

2011-12-05T09:39:00.004-05:00

The holidays are upon us now, and in most towns and major cities, the madness ensues. People are on the go with more frantic fury than ever, and there is nothing more stressful than trying to prepare for a holiday with omnipresent anxiety. Here are a few destinations that are sure to keep you away from the holiday crowds, de-stress, and have you feeling replenished.

St. John

For escaping winter’s bite, and the herds of people in more glitzy destinations of the Caribbean, St. John offers a tropical getaway in every sense of the word. St. John is great for enjoying the outdoors, catering to travelers who want exceptional recreation. Year round the temperatures level around 85 degrees, and on this tiny island, (the smallest developed island of the US Virgin Islands), you will really feel the remoteness. Being accessible only by boat from neighboring St. Thomas, the idea of seclusion is totally apparent. All varieties of aquatic sports are very popular, as are hiking and nature tours of the Virgin Islands National Park. Island sunsets, warm sand, and the island mentality await you!

Stay At: The Westin St. John Resort & Villas

Patagonia

If your heart is set on serious wanderlusting, and you need massive amounts of space to roam without the distraction of crowds, head to Patagonia. Your one-stop-shop for freedom, especially if freezing temperatures are within your comfort zone. On the verge of Antarctica, in the most southern city of the world, the desolation is obvious. But so is the peaceful calm, the pure air, and the astounding views of the majestic, greatly untouched landscape. The Beagle Channel and the Andes Mountains are the most beautiful attractions here, and are constantly within view.

Stay At: Los Cauquenes Resort & Spa

France

When most people consider traveling to France, they automatically assume doing so in the spring and summer months. Of course, that does make sense in terms of the weather, but there are a couple of factors that often slip by the wayside, and make travelers regret their timing. First of all, and this is common thought on a global scale, that while “Paris in the Springtime” is a romantic notion, the voluminous crowds can be overwhelming and difficult. The next hurdle is that throughout the majority of the month of August, nearly the entire nation is on vacation, rendering many stores and restaurants closed for business. France’s offseason can present plenty of wonderful reasons to visit, and allow you to experience this country in a completely different way. Luxurious hotels often offer amazing deals, making opulent accommodations very affordable. As the offseason is not a big magnet for tourists, you can enjoy France like the locals do. Heading to the South of France, Nice in particular, is wonderful during the month of December. While the beaches may not be suitable for sunbathing, and the chilly temperatures will require you to dress warmly, imagine the savory warmth of French cuisine, enjoy the shopping of the Christmas markets, and the sight of the Alps covered in snow.

Stay At: The Palais de la Mediterranee in Nice or the Ritz Paris

There certainly is nothing like the excitement of the holiday season, and sometimes don't you just have the urge to escape it all together; head someplace where you won't be bothered, and just simply immerse yourself in relaxation? Happy holidays!

Hotels so Fab that they're the Destination

2011-12-03T23:51:00.005-05:00

Some travels are all about the destination. You spend so little time in your room, that it makes no difference where you actually stay. Other times, when it's a vacation devoted to unwinding and being totally comfortable, having the right hotel is key. Taking this notion to the extreme, here are the best hotels for visiting simply because they are the destination!

Canyon Ranch, Arizona

Canyon Ranch is the quintessential example of a hotel that is on it’s own, a destination. Part health-spa, and part wellness retreat, where the atmosphere is about experiencing life with optimal health and pure joy. Perfectly placed poignantly into the desert landscape, you will be at one with the Southwest here. Luxurious surroundings and enough pampering to rejuvenate even the most tired of souls, you will leave in an entirely different state of mind. The greatest draw however, to this paradise in the desert, it the eloquently designed cuisine that has inspired many to venture here solely for the amazing gourmet meals!

Little Palm Island, Little Torch Key in the Florida Keys

Little Palm Island makes for such a gorgeous tropical getaway, that there is absolutely no need to leave this little gem of a resort for your entire trip. Perfect for couples who want to melt into the setting, and not have a care in the world outside of this lush cocoon. Your stay here is meant to keep you relaxed, and totally removed from any harshness of the outside world. With no televisions or telephones on the property, the idea is to connect to your surroundings. With exceptional food that highlights the Keys’ specialties like key limes and the most delectable fresh seafood, guests adore the dining options that range from beachside tables to the candlelit dining room. Beach bonfires, outdoor showers, and a location that you can only get to by plane or boat means the location is perfect for romance, and you will have no reason to venture beyond it!

Post Ranch Inn, California

This is the perfect hotel for a couple’s romantic getaway. Utterly comfortable, yet very sumptuous, the mood here is elegantly seductive. Remote, set into a stellar landscape, with an abundance of luxuries you will not want to venture away from this resort whatsoever! With views of Big Sur’s coastline, and the Ventana mountains, the sites here are mesmerizing. Award-winning cuisine, stunning architecture, a lavish spa, and yoga classes make this an optimal choice for honeymoons, anniversaries, and escaping into California serenity.

There are a lot of fabulous hotels out there in the world, and sometimes it is worth a vacation alone to travel just for the hotel. Have you ever traveled someplace, and the hotel was just so great that it made the whole trip? That’s what I’m talking about! Book your reservations with us, and you will be thrilled at the Exclusive Complimentary Perks that only we offer!

Give the Gift of Travel

2011-12-02T10:26:00.022-05:00

If you have seen any TV lately, you’ve most likely been inundated with holiday commercials urging you to purchase cars and jewelry. Do you want to give a truly meaningful gift to someone you love this year? Something they will never forget, and will mean more than almost any material object you can purchase? Give the gift of travel, of course! Memories last a lifetime, and who does not love a vacation? Whether its your sweetheart, or your sweet mama, surprise them this holiday season with a gift that will touch their hearts and intrigue the mind.

Personally, I find the idea of surprising someone with a getaway to be very charming. Giving experiences makes for truly thoughtful gifts, and some people just don’t want “things.” Plenty of people prefer to be actively doing things, and giving them a trip fits very well into “doing.” You can make an even greater impact by reserving their stay at an ultra-luxurious hotel, for utmost comfort, posh surroundings, exquisite pampering, and the very best accommodations. Keep in mind that if you do so with us, the Exclusive Complimentary Perks will add even more decadence to the trip, making it so worth it!

Four Seasons Hotels, the premier five-star hotel brand with whom we are delighted to have "Preferred Partner" status, offers properties throughout the world.. From Tokyo to Paris, New York to San Francisco, you can enjoy the unique attention that only Four Seasons can deliver. Ritz Carlton is another chain very well known for it’s divine hotels and resorts. The collection across WhataHotel! features an outstanding array of the world's finest hotel brands.

Some people are just incredibly hard to shop for. Family, friends, and colleagues can all present challenges in the gift-giving department. Buying junk is never satisfying, and who wants to waste money on gifts you’ll wonder if they will actually like, want, or even use? You can opt for gifts that cater to the travelers and explorers on your list with things like multi-time-zone watches, snazzy binoculars, high-tech compasses, and cozy blankets, but will they really be useful? So now that we've given you some ideas, please browse around the site and shop!

Why the Swiss Tradition of Art Basel is on Miami Beach

2011-12-01T13:46:00.001-05:00

Every year it gets bigger than the last, and every year it is increasingly ground breaking. This year, Art Basel Miami Beach is going to inject the international art world with the latest, most intense art experiences. Art is about provoking emotion, and Art Basel creates the perfect environment for setting up such encounters. The world’s most prestigious art dealers, top galleries, collectors, enthusiasts, curators, and critics gather for a whirlwind getaway in hopes of connecting with the vibrating pulse of art. Heralding in 10 years, Art Basel Miami Beach is happening now!

Art Basel is a Swiss tradition, and has always been an elite gathering to link collectors to the source of the most modern art. Miami was chosen for several reasons, and especially because it is a stark contrast from Switzerland. For many, Miami Beach is the perfect spot to host an international getaway focusing on art. Well-known for having an exceptional tropical climate, the city has a long-rooted history in modern art, the glamorous nightlife, and it is a very raw, real place where there is a vast amount of contemporary, edgy art happening all the time. Add in location: being a central hub, a converging point between North America, the Caribbean, and Latin America makes for a prime situation. Definitely not stuffy, very laid back, and plenty of fun!

This is the most exclusive showing of art that happens between North and South America, with galleries from all over the world exhibiting. From Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, and all throughout Latin America, in upwards of 260 major galleries will be present. From December 1st through the 4th, Miami Beach will be one non-stop party, with art by over 2,000 different artists.

Being the 10th year, expect bigger and more intense presentations than ever before. Art Basel Miami Beach will be debuting its collaboration for public art with the Bass Museum of Art. Numerous free viewings, special events, and great performances will be happening throughout the city. Collins Park will be filled with incredible art and art performances, with both well-known artists as well as up-and-comers. At SoundsScape Park, Art Video is going to be exhibited, which is a first for Art Basel Miami. This venue holds the enormous outdoor projection wall on the New World Center, which was designed by Frank Gehry.

As one of the biggest events to hit Miami every year, with an influx of many thousands of people, it can only be imagined the lack of ease which getting a hotel room can be. As most people have booked well in advance, your chances of landing a room at a five-star hotel in the area are very, very slim. Favorites this year are The Setai, The Mandarin Oriental, The Ritz Carlton South Beach, W South Beach, and The Standard. If you were ahead of the curve, and booked with us, chances are right now you are enjoying the art as well as the Exclusive Complimentary Perks! Otherwise, good luck, and enjoy the art!

The "most wonderful time of the year" in New York

2011-11-28T23:58:00.007-05:00

There is always something going on in New York, and when (sing it) "the most wonderfull time of the year" comes along, they really know how to go all out! Christmastime in New York City is magic; Vegas has nothing on these lights! Thousands of tourists pour into New York City every year for the holiday festivities. It is definitely the busiest time of year there, and with all of the excitement and preparation that goes into making it a city-wide holiday celebration, it is no surprise!

The Christmas tree at Bryant Park is always a big attraction, and the site has a great ice skating rink, that does not charge an admission fee. South Street Seaport sets up a massive 40-foot Norwegian Spruce, shimmering with lights. From November 25, through Christmas Eve, on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays the Big Apple Chorus will be performing. A 40-foot fir will be lit underneath the Washington Square Arch at Washington Square Park, creating a brilliantly festive sight in the East Village. The Winter Garden Holiday Lights spectacle dazzles, and is a bit different of an exhibit from the standard tree displays. With 45-foot palm trees, it may seem a little out of the ordinary for New York, but decked out with 100,000 sparkling lights it makes an incredible sight!

The major department stores put on fabulous window displays, in which Macy’s, Barney’s, Saks, and Bloomingdales do their best to out-do each other year after year. Each one amazing, people happily wait in long lines stretching around the city blocks to see them. Visiting Santa at the Macy’s Herald Square is a tradition for many, and some folks will claim with conviction that though there are many imposters, the true Santa Claus exists here.

Even the Museum of Natural History, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the New York Botanical Garden get in on the action, and create unbelievable exhibits that will amaze the eyes of spectators both young and old alike. Since July, people have been crafting origami figures that will be on display at the Museum of Natural History. This year’s theme includes a focus on the blue whale and giant dinosaurs, which will surely be a treat for anyone visiting this holiday season.

And then there is the most famous of all holiday sights in New York City: the massive tree at Rockefeller Center, which alone brings thousands to gaze in wonder at its radiance. For many, it is the single most important symbol of the holidays, and it is always a pleasure to witness, no matter how many times you have done so before.

Planning a trip to New York City during Christmas is perhaps the best time to do so. Staying in midtown will keep you right in the thick of the action, and it's a nice central vantage point for traveling all over Manhattan. These are some great hotels that will offer maximum luxury when its time to retreat from all of your reveling: The Plaza Hotel, The Pierre, The London Hotel NYC, and The Four Seasons Hotel. The best part about these awesome hotels in addition to being amazing places to stay while in New York, is that when you book through us, you will receive Exclusive Complimentary Perks!

Overwhelm Your Senses in Costa Rica

2011-11-27T22:54:00.002-05:00

Costa Rica presents plenty of opportunities for adventurous types. It is a natural paradise, and is absolutely heavenly with its lush mountains, forests, beaches, waterfalls, and volcanoes. The fantastic surfing conditions bring many surfers from around the world every year, for major competitions as well as pleasure. Diving, kayaking, and horseback riding are also hugely popular as well. There are many different excursions that offer zip lining through different forested areas, which is one of the attractions Costa Rica is most known for. Hiking through the mountains, and scaling waterfalls are also among the top adventures.

Even for those who are less inclined to zip line between mountains, hit the huge waves on the coast, or hike the many waterfalls, one will still be mystified by these very sights. If you are more into relaxing, and enjoying a gentler, less adrenaline-induced experience, Costa Rica presents a myriad of ways to enjoy the culture, and the intense natural surroundings. Bird watching and guided nature tours are immensely sought after activities, and they are as fulfilling as they are educational.

Costa Rica is one of the most biologically diverse areas on the planet. On such a tiny piece of tropical land, situated between the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean, with rainforests and volcanic activity, the country is literally teeming with life. The plant life is widely diverse and the vegetation is almost otherworldly in its beauty. The famed Cloud Forest is home to such creatures as the three-toed sloth, howler monkeys, toucans, and thousands of other types of birds and incredible butterflies. Hiking through this majestic mountainous terrain is an experience that will definitely overwhelm your senses, and fill you with wonder.

You can create the perfect Costa Rican vacation, tailored to your specific needs by choosing a hotel that fits the theme. Booking your hotel stay with us grants you the privilege of our Exclusive Complimentary Perks, which will make your trip that much more special, adding extra amenities and value.

If you want a luxurious, relaxing trip where your hotel is your haven, there is no place better than the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica. This resort offers scenic views, the perfect location for access to many different attractions, a gorgeous spa, a lovely pool, and a concierge staff that speaks multiple languages for optimal communication.

If you are wanting to go the route of ecologically responsible, the Hotel Punta Islita is a stunning choice. Built into a hill, that looks out onto a beach cove, this luxury resort caters to guests who want a very natural experience. Known for its amazing views, vast array of local art, and plenty of adventure, for the active types who prefer a five-star experience, this is it!

For the most unique Costa Rican experience, a stay at the Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort can take care of your thirst for thrills, while you relax your mind and body at once. One of the most interesting natural hot spring areas in the world, the Tabacon Hot Springs are created by the heat of the Arenal Volcano, which is currently active. Set into the rainforest, the springs are pure and exceptionally beautiful. This lavish, five-star resort will allow you to enjoy Costa Rica's richness in total comfort and serenity.

Costa Rica lives up to its name beyond all measure. Holding vast ecological diversity, incredible scenery, and amazing, hospitable people who welcome visitors to experience the brilliance of their country, it is considered to be one of the most beautiful places on earth. A land of immense riches, from its coasts to forests, it is laden with natural treasures.

The Best Light Displays of the Holiday Season

2011-11-26T23:59:00.002-05:00

Christmas lights are such a big deal, that there are many people who will travel far distances just to view the displays. Some locations are world famous for their city-wide spectacles, and these are the best displays in the US. If one of these cities is local to you or requires travel, seeing them; especially with children, really makes the magic of the season.

New York City

Perhaps the most famous Christmas spectacle anywhere in the world happens in New York City. Cliché or not, it really is magical. The entire city sparkles, with so many different displays. Street after street is decked out in glittering, glowing lights, giant snowflakes, icicles, and plenty of other chilly, glittering things. The towering Christmas tree at Rockefeller Plaza sitting above the ice skating rink is always a favorite for visitors and locals alike. Central Park’s southeast corner holds the world’s largest menorah, a monolith at 32 feet high, and it’s lighting will begin December 20^th. The big department stores, especially the extravaganza that Macy’s puts on, are absolutely breath-taking! Even outside of Manhattan, in the boroughs you can find incredible sights. Some neighborhoods take it to the extreme, and hold tours, like Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. For those who’ve enjoyed these delights year after year, they are proud to proclaim that there is nowhere more fun to be during Christmastime than in New York!

Best Places to Stay:

Jumeirah Essex House,

The Four Seasons New York

The Peninsula.

Newport Beach, California

A warm and sunny destination, Newport Beach, CA, is a fabulous place to experience festive holiday lights. This ocean-side city has been known for its “Christmas Boat Parade” for more than 100 years. This is America’s oldest holiday boat parade, and it is so worth the travel. 200 different boats, ranging from canoes to million-dollar yachts, get bedecked in lights and holiday garb to parade through the Newport Harbor. Every year, it brings in almost one million spectators, and lasts for four nights. On the final night, the show ends with a finale of fireworks. With 14 miles of places to watch, including public beaches and different venues on the Balboa Peninsula, Balboa Island, and the Fun Zone amusement area, it really makes for an exciting way to enjoy the season’s best lights on the West Coast.

Best Places to Stay:

Island Hotel

Fairmont Newport Beach

Disney World, Orlando, Florida

Considering Disney is the capital of everything fun and magical all year round, it makes perfect sense that at Christmastime they would kick it into overdrive. Every year, the uber-creative folks at the Disney headquarters create one of the most fascinating exhibits of holiday lights. The use of animation, 3-d effects, blazing holiday music, snow flurries, and the glow of five million bulbs offers a pretty amazing way to get into the spirit of the holidays. Planned into a Disney vacation, viewing these lights is utterly enchanting!

Best Places to Stay:

Waldorf Astoria Orlando

Ritz Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

Whether your city sets up amazing holiday lights or not, these destinations are the best of the best. Making a trip out of it, and heading to any of these spots just to take in the holiday cheer is so worth the trip. Nothing will get your holiday spirit happier!

Spoil ‘Em Rotten!

2011-11-25T18:51:00.000-05:00

No one needs luxury vacations more than families. No one needs five-star hotels more than parents do! Traveling with children can be a mission, and when the trip is over parents often feel the need for an additional, kid-free vacation just to de-stress and relax from the “vacation” they just took!

Choosing the right destination can also be a task in and of itself. Let’s face it: there are some places, no matter how much fun they may be for mom and dad, are really not kid-friendly. New York City is a destination that can appeal to all age groups, and provide ample amounts of exciting things to do. A wide range of museums, botanical gardens, the Bronx Zoo, and good old Central Park are great for the whole family. Places with plenty of sunshine are also highly promising- what do kids enjoy more than playing outside, with tons of freedom? And getting to do it in new places that offer room for exploring is even better. Locations that have nice arboretums, nature preserves, and beaches will forever be favored vacations for families with young children. Southern California, Florida, and Hawaii will absolutely delight their senses with great weather and awesome beaches.

No hotel brand understands the needs of families better than Four Seasons. With hundreds of locations world wide, most places you can visit will have one nearby. Considering our “Preferred Partner” status with the entire Four Seasons brand, you will be given special treatment and savings when you book your stay at any of their locations with us. In addition, you also will be tickled by the Exclusive Complimentary Perks that are included as well!

The Four Seasons Hotel, Miami

While offering all the luxurious amenities you could want, this hotel has two beautiful pools that are open 24-hours a day, so you will not be rushed out as soon as the sun sets. The hotel’s restaurant, Acqua, offers complimentary meals for all children five years and younger from their children’s menu.

The Four Seasons Aviara Residences Club, North San Diego

A fantastic destination, sure to please weary parents, and exuberant children alike, it has been designed to offer a home-like atmosphere within a resort. Offering a children’s welcome programme, where all children are catered to depending on their age. Cribs and baby care products are provided for guests traveling with infants. While bathrobes and children’s toiletries are provided for older children. For adults, enjoy the world-class golfing, tennis courts, and various venues of fine dining.

The Four Seasons Maui at Wailea, Hawaii

Maui’s largest resort, yet still quaint and luxurious, sits on the stunning Pacific coast. A perfectly enchanting place for the whole family to be spoiled! Every room features large flat-screed tvs, DVD players, iHome docking stations, and high-speed internet access. Original artwork is displayed in every room. At the restaurants DUO and Ferraro’s, all meals for kids aged five and under are complimentary. Upon arrival, children will be given welcoming amenities, child-sized bathrobes, and toiletries. The concierge will graciously assist in offering information about attractions that are best suited to families, and they can even assist in arranging a babysitter with a minimum of four hours notice.

Four Seasons Hotel, New York

The quintessential hotel for enjoying the city with kids, a programme for welcoming is given to children upon checking in. This hotel offers a fabulous location and amazing comfort within all the hustle and bustle of New York. Walking distance from the great shops, including FAO Schwartz, the options are endless. Upon request, the hotel offers PlayStation and Nintendo Wii gaming systems for use, as well as access to their children’s video and DVD libraries.

If you are planning a vacation with the kids, spending the extra money on luxury is not just a frivolous luxury, but a necessity. So, when traveling with your offspring, do them and yourselves a favor: spoil them rotten with a great hotel!

Escape Winter, Head to Thailand

2011-11-22T19:34:00.001-05:00

Iwth tropical warmth, culture, and non stop partying, Thailand has all the right ingredients that make for incredible winter getaways. Their rainy season happens from May through October, so our winter is absolutely the perfect time to plan a visit. Whether you are on the mainland, or are island hopping in the Andaman Sea, you will definitely get your resort fix on!

Few destinations, large or small, near or far, can offer as much as Thailand does. If you are looking for a classic winter vacation, with fantastic beaches, great hospitality, and relaxation, or if you want culture, nightlife, exciting bars and clubs, world-class shopping, Thailand has got it all.

Sightseeing will provide ample opportunities to truly feel the essence of Thai history. Dating back 200 years, the Grand Palace encompasses over 100 different buildings and temple structures. The National Museum was once a royal residence, and is a feast for the eyes.

If you love the local culture, the shopping alone can be a reason for a trip to Thailand. Thai fabrics and silks, ceramics, wood, jewelry, and gorgeous antiques will make anyone with a taste for art, design, or exotic crafts swoon.

As far as beaches go, the best Thailand can offer lie in their many famous islands. Koh Kood, Krabi, and Phuket make for the ultimate island vacations, with idyllic settings of crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and incredible lush jungle landscapes.

As any person who has been to Thailand can say with conviction, the hotels are stunning. The famed Thai hospitality is taken to the extreme when it comes to many five-star hotels. When booking with us at any of these hotels, you won't miss out on our Exclusive Complimentary Perks, which can add just that much more to your trip.

The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok is a prime, and revered hotel. Opened first in 1877, it has received countless awards, accolades, and honorable mentions by publications such as Conde Nast Traveller, Institutional Investor, Business Traveller, and Travel & Leisure. Designed with a classical elegance, rich in reference to the area's British heritage, and laced with local touches of Thai silk textiles, the interior is boldly sumptuous. Every room and suite on the property features stunning views of the river. A gym, two pools, several restaurants, and one of the best spas in Bangkok create a very comfortable and inviting setting.

The Four Seasons Hotel, Bangkok offers everything you would expect: lavish surroundings, exquisite service, gracious attitudes, and an abundance of beauty at every turn. This hotel sits in the heart of downtown Bangkok, and is an excellent place to stay if you want fast access to the business and shopping areas of the city. You will be indulged here, in accordance with Four Season’s reputation for pampering services, and the omnipresent Thai hospitality!

Soneva Kiri by Six Senses on the island Koh Kood had immense buzz before it was even available for booking. Once it opened, the awards have poured in. Exclusive and remote, this resort has only 28 private villas tucked into the jungle. The resort has its own private plane, which only incurs a one-hour flight from Bangkok. Perhaps one of the finest beach resorts anywhere in the world, Soneva Kiri is as beloved for its intelligent design as it is for its location. Five-star organic dining, an outdoor movie theatre, and an indulgent spa that caters to relaxation are some of the highlights here. Definitely will have you in touch with your sixth sense!

Bangkok is loved by visitors for being such a friendly and kind city. The happiness of it’s locals is seriously infectious. At once the area’s traditional customs are merged with the fast pace of technology to create a wonderfully blended society.

Shanghai- A Pulsating Metropolis

2011-11-21T10:33:00.001-05:00

With the glimmering Pudong skyline, and sitting at a prime location on the Yangtze River Delta, Shanghai is China’s most glamorous city. It is also the largest city in the world, both by population and size.

For the past 20 years, this city has taken a head-on plunge in development as a center for culture, technology, fashion, media, finance, commerce, and transport. It holds the world’s busiest container port, due to its strategic waterway location, as well as being a major financial hub. Originally a fantastic city centered on trade in the 19^th century, by the 1930’s it became Pacific Asia’s most booming financial mecca. In 1949, when China’s Communist Party assumed control, Shanghai’s prominence began a downward turn. It was not until the 1990’s, when the economy was being drastically redesigned that Shanghai’s immense potential was reasserted. A massive renovation was soon underway, with the intention of reclaiming the former financial prowess and luring in foreign investors. Today, the Shanghai Stock Exchange has a ranking of 3rd with regard to it’s trading volume. While industry is a main aspect of the city, it is also a bustling metropolis. More than 30 colleges and universities are in Shanghai, including many of the nations most esteemed schools.

Architecturally, there is so much to see in this city. In the 1920’s and ‘30’s, many buildings were done in the art deco style, and these remain as a reminder of the city’s rich past. During that era, many of these buildings were designed and built by the world-renowned architect, Laszlo Hudec, of Hungary.

If you are going to be visiting Shanghai, the five-star hotels are unbelievable. The following are the five best. No matter which you may choose to stay in, the added bonus of our Exclusive Complimentary Perks is sure to make your trip amazing!

1. The Park Hyatt, Shanghai

Shanghai’s only five-star boutique hotel, every detail is executed to promise that all guests will be attended to with deserving attention. This unique hotel sits within the Shanghai World Financial Center, and claims the floors from the 79^th to the 93^rd. A very glamorous building, it is a shining light in the city’s skyline. It is also known as “The Vertical Complex City.” 101 storeys high, it is one of the world’s tallest buildings, making this hotel the highest anywhere in the world. Suffice it to say, rooms in any of the suites will offer mind-blowing views. When those begin to get ordinary, you can visit the 100 Century Avenue Restaurant, where European and Asian cuisines are offered.

2. The Portman Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai

A favorite among international dignitaries, and meant to luxuriously offer the finest of Shanghai, this hotel is perfection. With a prime location on the Nanjing Xi Lu, sitting directly in the exciting shopping district, the Portman Ritz Carlton is also close to plenty of entertainment venues, and cultural sights. With a goal of pleasing guests with maximum attention, the hospitality is sensational. Several restaurants, a jazz club, and a pool on the roof top are meant to satisfy the taste of any international guest.

3. The St. Regis Hotel, Shanghai

Centrally located in Pudong, the St. Regis Hotel offers the best of Shanghai’s business and cultural pursuits, while maintaining a posh elegance. It’s location is favored among guests who will be travelling all over the city, and need expedited access to a range of different locations. The hotel’s décor is superb, and the views from every room make staying here in the city an absolute pleasure.

4. The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong

As one of the most newly debuted hotels in Shanghai, everything here is sparkling with luxury. A blend of modern style is blended with classic design, for a distinct look. Shanghai and Pudong are sister cities, separated by the beautiful Huangpu River. Pudong is truly the financial and commercial core of the area. This hotel is unique in its ability to cater to business travelers with style, comfort, and convenience. The hotel seamlessly incorporates retail, with residential space, as well as luxury office space, which caters to locals as well as visitors.

5. The Four Seasons Hotel, Shanghai

In line with their exquisite reputation, the Four Seasons, Shanghai has a phenomenal location that offers guests unparalleled service, attention, and luxurious amenities. In a sophisticated yet warm atmosphere, you will be comfortably pampered here. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, this hotel is everything you would expect from the Four Seasons in a world-class city. Conveniently situated, it is in close proximity to all the shopping and entertainment centers, and very near the business areas.

A major world city has got to have outstanding hotels, and with all the other modern development that has engulfed Shanghai, many of their five-star hotels are sights to see all on their own. These are the five best that Shanghai has to offer, and they are seriously overflowing with opulence.

5-Star Digs in the Bush

2011-11-20T04:41:00.002-05:00

Ernest Hemingway was quite the avid safari-man. He wrote several tales about the wonders of the African wilderness, and the incomparable experience of safaris. While in his day, hunting large game was considered a fashionable sport to prove one’s manliness, nowadays it is anything but. Today’s safari is more about educating, conservation, and just simply bearing witness to the magnificence of African wildlife.

Throughout Africa, you can find many great safaris. The wildlife may vary, but always a constant are the breathtakingly surreal views. Safari's in and of themselves have always been something of a luxury for travelers. The mystique of the exotic, and the thrilling adventure combine to execute the trip of a lifetime.

Many of Africa’s nations have their own brand of Safari, and you will experience unique treasures at each of them. South Africa, while an international metropolitan hub, features incredible safari's through its preserved areas. The world-famous Kruger Park has plenty of large game, and wildlife excursions. Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is highly renowned for its 340,000 acres of pristine African wilderness, directly in the path of the migratory route that thousands of animals journey on year after year. Zambia has perfect access to the amazing Victoria Falls, Zambezi River, and South Luangwa National Park. The views here are stunning, and there is excellent opportunity for viewing elephants, lions, and buffalo. Boat cruises on the river, and helicopter trips across the land are musts! Botswana is elephant country, and trips here will have you very close and personal to earth’s largest land mammal. Walking safaris and boat cruises through the Okavango Delta will blow your mind! Kenya offers wide options in luxury and safaris. The splendor of the views, which are regarded as some of the world’s finest for viewing game, are what makes this destination so special.

Knowing the luxury market that safari's appeal to, there is no shortage of gorgeous, 5-starcamps and lodges you can choose from for your stay in the bush. Here are the grandest per country:

Botswana: Khwai River Lodge, Eagles Island Camp, Savute Elephant Camp

Kenya: Fairmont Mara Safari Club

South Africa: Cape Grace, One & Only Cape Town

Tanzania: Singita Grumeti Reserves

Zambia: The Royal Livingstone

While every type of safari vacation exists and can be arranged, who would really want to be camping out on the savannas, and roughing it? The real way to enjoy a safari is by way of the 5-star camp or lodge. Booking your stays at any of these with us one-ups the competitors because of the privileged relationships we have formed with them. For a trip of this magnitude, do it in regal style!

Conde Nast's 2011 Gold List: North America

2011-11-18T18:30:00.006-05:00

Every year, Conde Nast Traveller publishes their “Gold List,” and this is the foremost collection of the very best hotels the world over, for that year. In honor of 2011 coming to a close, here are the top choices from this year’s Gold List in North America. If you are planning an end of the year getaway, be sure to check out one of these spots!

The Setai, Miami

The Setai adds another level of sophistication to Miami’s already vibrant scene. One of South Beach’s most luxuriant, and beautifully designed resorts, when you are in Miami there is no where more stylish to stay. Where Art Deco collides with a modern, Asian-inspired décor, you will feel glamorously comfortable in this intimate setting. Situated on the ocean, this hotel has plenty of amenities and options for having a good time. 86 suites are held in this tropical oasis, and every one of them has stunning black granite bathrooms, with elegant rainfall showers. You have your choice of three pools, the spa, and four different options for dining on this property alone.

The Beverly Hills Hotel, Los Angeles

This glam Hollywood landmark, overflows with rich decadence, and is always teeming with Hollywood’s elite. A pale-pink mecca of grandeur, sitting directly on Sunset Boulevard, there is no better way to experience LA than here. This hotel was designed for providing Hollywood's elite with the ultimate luxuries, privacy, and attentive service. Throughout all of the suites and bungalows, you will be amazed at the exquisite furnishings and interior details, all of which have been designed exclusively for the Beverly Hills Hotel. Trendy, glamorous, and as posh as hotel can be. Historical fact: Liz Taylor spent six honeymoons here!

Gramercy Park Hotel, New York

When the décor is done by artist Julian Schnabel and includes works from the artist himself, as well as other NYC greats like Basquiat and Warhol, you know the hotel is going to look incredible. One of New York’s hottest hotels, and certainly among the most fashionable, Gramercy Park Hotel is much more than just a place to spend the night. A rooftop garden club, two excellent bars, and the best Italian regional cuisine in the city means it is an excellent spot to party!

Amangani, Wyoming

A luxury lodge that was designed into the landscape, the Amangani is one of the most gorgeous resorts in the West. A stunning structure, built in redwood and sandstone, three-storeys high, with breath-taking views that gaze into the Snake River Valley, this is a resort that allows you to savor the landscape both indoors and out. The ceilings were purposely designed to be towering, and the floor-to-ceiling windows are magnificent for soaking up the majestic views of the Tetons.

The Wickaninnish Inn, Canada

A hotel created with nature in mind, the Wickaninnish Inn was designed to be at one with the local environment. When the location was chosen, the deciding factor was based on the placement of the land on the ocean, because the storm views are spectacular. The building itself was built of locally sourced cedar, glass, and stone. Every room has a fireplace, and the stunning views are captured perfectly with vast floor-to-ceiling windows. This hotel also prides it’s collection of Canadian works of art and sculptural pieces. The area boasts some of the best Canadian aquatic activities, such as whale sightings, sea kayaking, diving, fishing, and surfing. The hotel’s restaurant, spa, and beachside coffee lounge are also phenomenal, and will make your stay delightful!

The Conde Nast Traveller is one of the leading sources of everything regarding luxury travel. It is internationally renowned, and thoroughly trusted for always having current information, fantastic destinations, and featuring the most exclusive hotels in the world. For your end of the year travels, keep in mind that by booking your stay with us, you will receive our Exclusive Complimentary Perks at any of these fantastic, Gold List hotels.

Where the Privileged Honeymoon

2011-11-17T00:48:00.001-05:00

Oh, where to honeymoon if the options are limitless? If you can stay literally anywhere, and have the free range to choose, where would you go? A tropical island in the Pacific? How about one in the Caribbean? Perhaps hitting a slew of spots in the Mediterranean? When the rich and famous honeymoon, many spots are favored, some secluded, and others blatantly obvious. No matter where the location may be, domestic or exotic, there will be no end to the luxury, and guaranteed there will be a stay in a five-star hotel. By booking with us, you can honeymoon happily knowing you will be showered with our Exclusive Complimentary Perks.

Stateside, Santa Barbara, California is a top choice among celebrities. You can’t beat the location if work has got you busy in the area! It also happens to be one of the most beautiful destinations in all of the United States, so it makes perfect sense why it is such a cherished spot. The ultimate venue of choice for savoring the romance is the famous San Ysidro Ranch. It is as exclusive as it is beautiful, and was recently appointed as the fourth best hotel in the world, by Travel and Leisure. With so much space on the 500 acre property, and only forty-one luxurious suites and private cottages, privacy here is the only option. This gem of a resort has been a haven of celebrity romance over the past 70 years, with a rich history of weddings and honeymoons spent here. Sir Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh were married here in 1940, amidst the serene gardens. In 1953, President John F. Kennedy and First Lady Jackie Kennedy spent their honeymoon at San Ysidro Ranch, which provided the perfect secluded setting. Other celeb couples who have spent their honeymoons here are Julia Roberts and Danny Moder in 2002, and Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony in 2004.

The Maldives beckon many celebrity couples, and set the scene for the honeymoon of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes. With their infant daughter in tow, they island-hopped on a private yacht. When Fergie of the Black-Eyed Peas wed Josh Duhamel, they spent the first part of their honeymoon here, and stayed at the elite One & Only Reethi Rah resort. Entirely a romantic paradise, 130 private villas sit directly on the bays, and every one has stunning ocean views, and a private veranda. This stretch of islands in the Indian Ocean provides a remote tropical setting, ample amounts of privacy, and an obvious atmosphere for seduction.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia is simply captivating, and has always lured in visitors with its promise of spectacular coastline, and gorgeous land. When Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban honeymooned there in 2006, they stayed at the posh St. Regis Bora Bora Resort’s Royal Estate. Considered one of the finest resorts in all of the South Pacific, the amenities of a five-star resort collide with a phenomenal array of Tahitian nature. It goes as no surprise that Carrie Underwood and Mike Fisher took a cue, and spent their honeymoon in Bora Bora last year as well.

The indulgences of the privileged few are certainly inspiring, and these honeymoons seem to have been spent perfectly. Whether you are planning your honeymoon, or doing anything but, could you imagine any locations more idyllic than these?

Wine Tasting in Argentina

2011-11-15T13:29:00.000-05:00

No country in South America is known for their wine like Argentina is. In the more distant past, touring the vineyards and sampling the goods was rather difficult, and often extremely expensive to do, so it remained a rare luxury. As the major metropolitan area of Buenos Aires is the main tourist draw, and with adventurers trekking the majestic wilderness areas of Patagonia and Iguazu Falls, the wine country remained overlooked for most travelers, with no tours venturing in that direction. While other parts of the world boast their vineyards and wineries as indulgent tourist attractions, Argentina is only now beginning to embark on this type of venture.

When it comes to wine in Argentina, Mendoza is the place to be. Not a conventional tourist destination, you can experience the culture here in a way that is not marred by many outside influences. And while many traditions here have remained through generations, modernity is completely embraced, and the pace is exciting. The Valle de Uco is Mendoza’s high altitude region. There are quite a few wineries located here, and all take advantage of the fantastic conditions that produce excellent wines, especially the malbecs. These estates blend technology with tradition, and it is definitely worth a visit to see how their grapes go from vine to the table.

Lujan de Cuyo is located south of Mendoza, and this region produces the finest Malbec wines. Visitng the Tapiz, Ruca Malen, and Achaval Ferrer wineries is absolutely necessary, as they are Argentina’s premier wines.

For the best accommodations, you have options in both Mendoza and Buenos Aires. Either way, by booking with us, you will unquestionably be pleased by our Exclusive Complimentary Perks. If you opt to spend your entire stay in Mendoza, the Park Hyatt will fulfill every need you may have. Gorgeous 19^th century architecture, yet situated amidst the financial and banking district of Mendoza’s lively downtown, you will have access to the best of both worlds here. A mere 15 minutes outside of the vineyards, you will be able to experience the countryside as well as the city on any given day. This hotel also features fantastic amenities that will certainly add to the enjoyment of your trip. After a day spent touring the vineyards, unwind in the luxurious spa. For cravings of excitement, the thrilling casino will definitely have you covered. If you are planning only a quick visit through the wine country, and plan to stay in Buenos Aires, there is nowhere better to lodge than at the Four Seasons. More like an elegant French mansion, this beautiful hotel provides easy access to everything cultural that Argentina can offer. A quick hop from great shopping, excellent dining, fun nightlife and banking centers, you will be right in the thick of all the action.

For something different in the Southern hemisphere, touring Argentina’s wine country makes for an amazing trip. For connoisseurs and novices alike, it doesn’t get any better than experiencing Argentina’s wines firsthand, straight from the source.

Intoxicating Anguilla is Caribbean Bliss

2011-11-15T13:27:00.000-05:00

Tucked into the Caribbean Sea, a short flight or ferry ride from the tourist hotspot St. Martin, Anguilla is the crown jewel of the British Virgin Islands. Exclusive per definition, the island is a favorite vacation spot for over-worked celebrities who are looking for vacation bliss without the hype and spotlight of other tourist destinations.

Imagine everything the Caribbean islands are known for: the ultimate laid-back atmosphere, turquoise waters, powdery white sand, rainforest-covered mountains, and excellent service wherever you go. Snorkeling, yachting, cliff diving, kayaking, and enjoying the island’s 33 beaches are by far the most favored activities. Anguilla has, perhaps the greatest culinary masters in all of the Caribbean and your taste buds will definitely be pleased. Throughout the island, there is no shortage of amazing places to dine, ranging from international gourmet fusion fare, to local “beach bars” which feature the finest island dining you can experience. Many beach bars are situated directly on the sand, allowing for great times and great food on the ocean.

Anguilla takes the concept of the luxury vacation to the next level, and booking with us will give you an advantage over booking at any other site given the added value of our Exclusive Complimentary Perks. If there is one location for pure relaxation and peaceful quietude, it is here. As far as accommodations go, the entire island offers not much less than five-star resorts. From villas to suites, the pampering and lavish settings are there for the choosing.

For the exotic within the exotic, you will be mesmerized by the Moroccan-inspired décor and architecture of Cap Juluca. Serenity sets the mood here, and it is intoxicating. Recently, a $22 million renovation was completed, making the resort that much more of a sanctuary in paradise than it previously was. The Viceroy Anguilla Resort and Residences is an unbelievable beachside resort that resides on 35 acres of stunning tropical land. It is both posh and modern, without compromising any laid-back comfort. 166 rooms have been designed to perfection, and you have your choice of ocean-view suites, blufftop rooms, and beachfront villas that have their own private pools. The CuisinArt Resort & Spa is a Mediterranean oasis set into the stunning Caribbean Sea. These whitewashed villas rest against the ocean landscape, with gorgeous, fragrant tropical gardens enveloping the grounds. Simply making this resort one of the finest in all of the West Indies.

Anguilla is that rare gem of a destination. An entire pristine island, devoted to luxury and vacation perfection, it's just a no-brainer.

Book Now, Ski Later!

2011-11-07T08:16:00.001-05:00

There have been many indications that this year is going to be a blustery one, just like last year. Instead of preparing for massive hibernation, we highly suggest booking a ski vacation. Make the most of what nature brings, and if there is snow on the mountain, ski it! And while you’re at it, include a stay at an incredible ski resort to enjoy the best of both the outdoors and the cozy indoors. Here are our top picks:

The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch on Beaver Creek is a superb choice for the ultimate ski trip. While this lux resort may be open all year long, the best time to enjoy it is definitely in the prime of winter. A simply perfect destination to enjoy the pleasures of the Rocky Mountains, the skiing here is unprecedented. Offering ski-in/ ski-out access, you will have every opportunity to savor the adventure. When it gets too cold outside, steal away inside to enjoy the world-class spa, dine at Wolfgang Puck’s Spago, and enjoy the attention that only Ritz-Carlton can deliver.

The St. Regis Resort, Aspen is everything your fantasies could envision. Aspen has always held a reputation for being unbelievable, and this ski resort is certainly among the best. In December 2011, a massive $30 million renovation will be complete, readying the resort for a fantastic ski season ahead. This resort is situated at the very base of Aspen Mountain, providing first-rate skiing, as well as access to Aspen’s great shopping areas and fine restaurants. Every room in this resort is designed to showcase the gorgeous mountain views.

Utah’s Deer Valley is an idyllic spot, with some of the best skiing the United States can offer. The St. Regis Deer Valley will have you surrounded by lavish settings, top-notch amenities, and most importantly, offering the availability of Deer Valley’s exclusive slopes. With ski-in/ski-out access, your adrenaline fix is guaranteed. Afterwards, you can unwind in total serenity at the Remede Spa.

On the East Coast, nothing can trump the Stowe Mountain Lodge, in Stowe, Vermont. A favorite locale of the discriminating traveler, it is New England’s premier ski town. The entire area is nothing short of majestic, and offers one pristine vista after another. The Stowe Mountain Lodge has been built in the “Vermont-Alpine” style, and delivers a distinctly “Vermont” experience. In this vein of native pride, locally-sourced building materials, and artisan-made products have been utilized as much as possible. The Stowe Mountain Lodge is the perfect way to enjoy the area’s fine natural resources, while having access to the best skiing New England can offer.

Ski season will be kicking off soon, and there is no better way to enjoy it than like a ski vacation. Enjoying the splendor of winter in five-star style, with all of the great perks that are available when booking with WhataHotel! will make it a trip never to be forgotten!

Name Dropping: William and Kate’s Hotel Haunts

2011-11-05T11:11:00.001-04:00

The newest royal couple is really big on travel. In fact, since the beginning of their courtship, they have taken many publically documented trips together. Bouncing all over Europe, yachting through the Caribbean, safaris in Africa, and touring extensively throughout North America have been on their agenda over the past few years. Even as the duo live their individual lives with commitments such as work and military duty, they have always made time for indulgently adventurous vacations.

Since their widely broadcasted nuptials, Prince William and Kate Middleton have stayed in some pretty extraordinary hotels. On the Duchess’ last night as a single woman, she had the privilege of staying at the top floor “Royal Apartment” of London’s exclusive Goring Hotel. Joined by her mother and sister, Pippa, the suite was the perfect haven to indulge and relax in before her whirlwind wedding. 100 years old, this hotel has long been known for its quaint English charm, intimate setting, and lavish décor. Situated directly in the center of London, the service here is nothing short of regal.

After their wedding, the royal couple embarked on a journey through North America, where they visited landmarks and National Parks. When Wills and Kate arrived in Canada, they busied themselves with cultural activities, and awesome outdoor excursions like traditional canoeing, and even spending a day at the Calgary Stampede rodeo. Like the true world citizens they are, the Duke and Duchess donned total Western outfits for the day, including ten-gallon hats. During their stay, rather than vacation like tourists, they opted for more enriching accommodations that included Rideau Hall, the residence of Canada’s Governor General. When they departed for Montreal, the spent their next night on the naval vessel, HMCS Montreal, as it cruised the St. Lawrence River.

When they hit Los Angeles, they made sure to really get their fill of Hollywood glamour. They stayed at the fabulous Beverly Hills Hotel, in the beautiful Presidential Suite. Over 1,900 square feet of luxury, a private kitchen, no shortage of elegant wood furnishings and marble accents, a Jacuzzi tub, a gas fireplace, and a private balcony that overlooks the LA skyline are some of the features this suite is equipped with.

Not everyone can travel like the royal couple does. However, if you are looking for a fantastic five-star hotel, filled to the brim with amenities and perks, booking with WhataHotel! will definitely fulfill your appetite for extravagant accommodations. Whether you are globe-trotting like Wills and Kate, or just planning a simple vacation, our exclusive relationships with the world’s best hotels allows us to extend the advantages to you!

The Most Expensive Night of Your Life

2011-11-04T19:45:00.002-04:00

If you have some money to spend, have a need to really live it up for a weekend, and want to have stories of grandeur to tell for the rest of your life, consider some of these suites as the finest, highest-priced hotel suites the world can offer. WhataHotel! has built solid relationships with these hotels, and by booking with us you will be offered even more exclusive, wonderful perks. Talk about bang for your buck!

Topping the list at $65,000 per night, Geneva’s Royal Penthouse Suite at the Hotel President Wilson is a favorite among royals, heads of state, and the most discriminating of celebrities. 12 rooms, a personal fitness center, a library, a billiards room, and a grand piano occupy the hotel’s entire top floor. As Switzerland is known the world over for being able to guarantee security and privacy like no other nation, this elite suite offers bulletproof windows and doors, and a private elevator for the ultimate in luxury protection.

If you’ve got $41,836 to drop in a single night in New York, there is nothing like the 360 degree, panoramic view of the skyline from the Ty Warner Penthouse Suite in the Four Seasons Hotel. When you combine the visions of three distinct geniuses; Ty Warner, who happens to own the hotel; world-renowned architect, IM Pei; and the designer Peter Marino, you end up with the unsurpassed brilliance that is this hotel room. Relax in your own private Zen garden, enjoy the services of your own private butler, personal trainer, and chauffeur in your decadent surroundings that include a one-of-a-kind chandelier, and textiles woven with threads of platinum and gold.

One Europe’s most stylish and glamorous destinations, Cannes, France is nothing short of fabulous. In line with that reputation, for $37,500 a night, the Penthouse Suite in the Hotel Martinez will rock your world. Enjoy this art deco suite that boasts a spa bath, sauna, and one of the most beautiful terraces in the city that looks out onto the Bay of Cannes. When those amenities bore you, you can hit the massive private beach and dine at the Michelin-starred restaurant located in the hotel.

When the world’s most elite travel, this is how they do it. Over-the-top style, an abundance of luxury, and the kind of service you only read about can be yours for the night if you toss around this kind of cash!

125 Years of Miss Liberty

2011-11-02T00:16:00.003-04:00

Standing proudly upon a pedestal base of gnarled, broken chains, Lady Liberty is a proud, green symbol of free will. Gifted by the French, and once the first American greeter to immigrants landing at Ellis Island, the stoic sculpture is more than a landmark. The Statue of Liberty is an international symbol of independence, and a symbol of America’s open arms to the world. On October 28, the bronze Lady Liberty celebrated her 125^th anniversary of promising hope and prosperity.

It is believed that the concept of the Statue of Liberty was hatched during a dinner party, where French aristocrats came up with the brilliant idea to honor the greatness of the freedom America presented. There are also levels of politics inlaid within the design, as well as the overall message of the monument, like all great works of art. The sculptor behind Liberty was Frederic Bartholdi. He designed her placement at New York Harbor to give the most intimate feeling. Every ship coming in would pass exceptionally close by, and the people passing by would feel her immense presence, representing the freedom they hoped for. Bartholdi also was inspired to create a testament that paid homage to America’s newly emancipated slaves, furthering the concept of “liberty for all.”

Suffice it to say, now would be a great time to visit New York. Even though the statue herself is closed due to renovations, Liberty Island is open to visitors. While last Friday held many celebrations for the anniversary, nothing beats actually visiting the site to really get the feeling. If you are considering planning a trip to NYC, definitely check into the Four Seasons. Perhaps one of the best-known hotels anywhere in the world, it is the ideal way to experience New York with really amazing perks which only we can deliver. WhataHotel! has exclusive connections that are guaranteed to get you the best value possible. Having "Preferred Partners" status with the entire Four Seasons brand allows for increased amenities, and plenty of advantages.

For a quick autumn getaway, rich with history, amazing sights, and a heavy dose of luxury, visiting the Statue of Liberty and a stay at the Four Seasons could not make a better trip!

When Fashion and Hotels Collide

2011-11-01T08:19:00.001-04:00

Luxury fashion and luxury travel seem to go hand in hand. For the most discriminating globetrotter, hotels are much more than a place to drop the bags and crash. Being surrounded in the digs produced by international fashion royalty, these are simply some of the most gorgeous hotels you could stay in throughout the world.

The Bvlgari name has long held great prestige as far as jewelry goes. In 2001, they partnered with the Ritz Carlton brand as one of the first fashion labels to partner with a major hotelier to create a super brand. The luxury is limitless in these hotels, which span the planet, allowing any traveler the availability of unsurpassed quality, service, and style wherever they may roam. From the streets of Milan to coasts of Bali, posh surroundings in exceptional taste are never too far away.

Claridge’s in London is one of the finest luxury spots anywhere in the world. When Diane Von Furstenberg, a literal goddess in the world of fashion, decided to spread her wings into hotel territory, she certainly pushed the limits of her own creativity. In her designs, she spared no detail. Claridge’s is a hotel known for their great influence in the world of art. Located in the Mayfair district of London, and a part of the legendary Art Deco hotel, when you stay here you are in very close proximity to London’s best shopping centers, as well as Hyde Park. The lovely Ms. Von Furstenberg put her signature style on everything she touched within the suites she designed. For the fashion mogul, this interior undertaking was an entirely new venture, and it is safe to say that she passed with flying colors and vibrant prints!

It does not require much guesswork to understand the beauty of Florence’s Hotel Lungarno. Originally built in the 17^th century, the brilliant Ferragamo family restored the property to bear a very understated elegance. Rich in classical Italian elegance, with a prominent international flair, the style in this hotel has no limits. Worth the visit alone is the amazing collection of modern art, which includes originals by such masters as Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau.

If you are craving a stylish place to stay, nothing will beat the opulence of a hotel done by one of fashion’s legends. The combination of amenities and the unbelievable perks will sweep you off your feet!

When the Stars Go Off the Beaten Path

2011-10-28T17:24:00.007-04:00

Being in the spotlight is all good and great, but when the stars need some time to unwind, they sure know how to do it in style. Always opting for five-star treatment, here are some of the most secluded, yet adored hotels that celebrities are known to vacation at.

Sandy Lane in St. James, Barbados is one of the most luxurious, and exclusive resorts in all of the Caribbean. The west coast of Barbados is known as the “Platinum Coast,” and there is no limit to the extravagance in the service. The spa is perfection, and there are three golf courses, as well as nine tennis courts to help you pass the time away in paradise. Some of the celebs that have stayed here are Gwyneth Paltrow and her husband, Chris Martin, Simon Cowell, Rihanna, and Tiger Woods, who actually booked the entire property for his wedding in 2004.

Le Meurice in Paris offers one of the finest luxury hotels anywhere in the world. As for location, it is situated in the absolute heart of Paris. It has long been a favorite of celebrities, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, Orson Welles, Ginger Rogers, Harrison Ford, and pretty recently, Beyonce and Jay-Z have lived it up at this lavish hotel.

Le Sirenuse, Positano, Italy is located on the Amalfi Coast. As for romance, you could not find a more dreamy destination. When the sun sets, 400 candles get lit in the hotel’s famous restaurant, La Sponda, for the ultimate in ambiance. This chic location offers world class shopping and dining, while being situated in the gorgeous setting of the bay of Positano. It’s no wonder why Reese Witherspoon chose it for her recent honeymoon to husband Jim Toth.

St. Regis Princeville Resort, Kauai, Hawaii, is the top choice for many stars visitingHawaii. Kauai is known for its incredible sunsets, the secluded natural vistas, and the availability of great waves for surfing, and great trails for hiking. In short, it is every adventurer’s idea of paradise. The resort is considered one of the most elite, and grandest throughout all of the Hawaiian islands, with amenities and service that are unrivaled. Ben Affleck and wife, Jennifer Garner, George Clooney, and Alicia Keys have all stayed at the resort, with complete satisfaction.

When a celebrity stays at a certain hotel, you know it says something about its standard of quality. When numerous stars are known to frequent certain spots that are well out of the limelight, you know there’s got to be something special about them. These resorts can be considered elusive gems, offering the best of the best and privacy.

The World’s Newest Seven Wonders

2011-10-27T08:55:00.003-04:00

Despite what goes on in the world, nature is one way to bring us all together. Beyond our control, and all around us, it can be awe-inspiring to look at the world through appreciative eyes, and not take for granted the immense beauty of our planet. Every so often, it becomes time to choose new natural wonders to focus on. 28 different locales across the globe are competing for one of seven spots. The first contest of natural wonders happened in 2007, and it brought votes from more than 100 million people worldwide.

Among the contestants are Angel Falls, Venezuela, which is the world’s tallest waterfall, which cascades 19 times above Niagra Falls. Germany’s Black Forest, Azerbaijan’s Mud Volcanoes, Halong Bay of Vietnam, Iguazu Falls of Brazil and Argentina, Ireland’s Cliffs of Moher, the Maldives Islands, the Jeita Grotto of Lebanon, and Puerto Rico’s El Yunque rainforest are just a sliver of the distinctive natural landscapes vying for a spot on the revered seven. Well-known, somewhat obvious contestants include the Grand Canyon, the Dead Sea, Australia’s Aboriginal sacred monolith, Uluru, and the Great Barrier Reef, the Galapagos Islands, and Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Of course, this is not a complete list, but I am sure you get the picture on the majesty of these places.

Once the list is chosen, you can be sure that travel will definitely increase to the selected locales. If you are planning on making a trip that will be rich in both natural exploration and culturally enriching, finding a great, luxurious hotel should not be a problem. With all of the great perks, you can be sure to find a great deal as well. If you plan on visiting the Grand Canyon, staying at the Four Seasons Hotel in Las Vegas is a great option for both fun and location. In Tanzania, Singita Grumeti Reserves will provide a posh, relaxing atmosphere as you explore the surrounding wilderness. Hotel das Cataratas in Brazil provides the most sumptuous stay near the legendary Iguazu Falls. In Vietnam, the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has had more than 100 years of excellent service and luxury. Munich’s Rocco Forte Charles Hotel is a fantastic place to stay if you are going to be venturing into the Black Forest regions, offering a great location as well as comfort.

The natural wonders of the world offer so much to us, and no matter which destinations get chosen, it is important to remember how necessary all of the earth’s resources are. And there is no better way to appreciate them than to visit!

Hotel Bel Air Gets a Makeover

2011-10-26T08:15:00.006-04:00

When the extraordinary becomes ordinary, it becomes time to break new ground. The Hotel Bel-Air has just outdone itself with exquisite revamping, taking Old Hollywood elegance and catapulting it into the 21^st century, without even the slightest tinge of modern pretentiousness. Not that one would expect anything less of a hotel that has garnered awards such as being named “#1 in the U.S” by Travel and Leisure Magazine, and “#1 Boutique Hotel in the U.S.” by Departures Magazine. It has also achieved a five-star rating by Mobil more times that any other hotel in the state of California; which is not an easy feat to accomplish! When you consider those accolades, and all of the fabulous perks, this gem of a desert oasis will forever be embedded in your mind as one of the finest places to stay in all of Los Angeles.

Originally built in 1946, the architecture speaks directly of the Spanish mission style. The hotel now offers 103 different rooms, 12 of which were just built. Set directly into the hill, they give the most incredible views of the canyon. The renovated design is the work of Alexandra Champalimaud, one of the world’s best interior designers who specializes in the hospitality industry.

There is no end to the luxury, as the entire property is laden with details such as spacious bathrooms that have heated tile floors, private pools, and beautiful outdoor fireplaces. Resting atop the entire building is new bell tower.

As for dining, whether you stay here or not, the culinary experience will certainly add to the grandeur of the experience. Looking to outdo all competition, Wolfgang Puck is not the executive chef of the establishment, lending his vast knowledge, and serving up the finest California cuisine the state can offer. The restaurant is known as “Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air will open it’s doors to the public on November 1.

Located in one of the most fashionable cities, LA, Hotel Bel-Air knows how to take care of all of your beauty needs. The experience of the spa is not to be missed under any circumstances of your visit. Done by the luxurious Swiss company, La Prairie, you will experience treatments like none other.

Consider it the updating of a classic, with decadent styling and a boatload of glamour. If Los Angeles is going to be your destination anytime in the near future, this is one hotel not to miss.

Looking For The World's Best Halloween Party?

2011-10-25T10:36:00.001-04:00

Halloween is generally a Western celebration, with roots dated in the ancient Celtic ritual Samhain (pronounced sow-when). Considering this, the parties that happen in the UK and Ireland are pretty legendary. The Druids throw themselves a big pagan party at Stonehenge, recreating the ancient ritual their ancestors celebrated several millennia ago. In Ireland, the celebrations are a totally different story. Less ritualized, and no lessons on ancient history, these shindigs are more about impromptu debauchery, wild costumes, and much of the same frolicking that happens in the States. In fact, in the US, there was very little mention of Halloween before the period of the Potato Famine. Our modern day festivities hark back to Ireland, where jack-o-lanterns and trick-or-treating began. Derry, in Northern Island hosts an amazing Halloween street carnival that boasts great live music and the night closes with fireworks. Dublin’s Samhain parade is a decadent, flamboyant display of everything spooky and witchy. Stay at the Dylan Hotel in Dublin, for chic comfort and a luxurious place to rest up after all the partying.

Southeast Asia may not be your first thought about ghoulish destinations, but Bangkok really does know how to throw a street party. For Halloween, the city’s most colorful revelers get decked out to the nines, and wild costumes are a mainstay. Stay at the Sukhothai Hotel, after all the wickedness, you will need a some comfort to sink into.

If you are going to stay domestically, San Francisco presents the opportunity to have a blast all over the city on Halloween. Known for its incredible culture, where people love to play dress-up any day of the year. Suffice it to say, on Halloween the whole town goes all out with their wildest, scariest costumes. A stay at the Hotel Palomar will not disappoint, and will have you right in middle of everything. Long known for its history of witch prosecution, Salem, Mass. is always a sight to see on Halloween. Plenty of history, and the Official Salem Witches Halloween Ball make for a very cool trip. Stay in an ultra-luxurious spot like the Mandarin Oriental, Boston and your Halloween extravaganza will be unforgettable!

Halloween may be a holiday with Celtic history, but it has become a global party, a time for playing pretend, and having a blast. If you are tired of the same old routine, definitely get out there in the world and try something new this year!

Five-Star Foliage: Experiencing the Brilliant Colors Right Now at Autumn's Height

2011-10-24T08:32:00.003-04:00

From the eastern seaboard stretching west to the Rockies, and all throughout Canada, right now in North America, the changing of the leaves is in full swing! Among the best spots to see the vibrant hues are New England, Ohio,Colorado, and North Carolina where foliage tours will have your sights ablaze. Having the perfect hotel to retreat to is ideal. Here some top-notch options for a luxurious stay while gazing at autumn’s glory. As always, don’t forget about the priceless perks!

Twin Farms, Vermont

This charming estate is worth the trip alone! Add in the foliage, and you have the makings for an unforgettable fall getaway. Seeing the colored leaves and spending time at this 200-year-old farmhouse, you will be lavished with phenomenal hospitality. There are ten guest cottages, each set discreetly into the scenic landscape. Not to mention the property is situated on three hundred acres of meadow, gardens, and hardwood forests that will provide ample opportunity for ingesting the seasonal beauty.

Gramercy Park Hotel, New York City

If you want a scenic trip that offers you the ability to be immersed in the colorful fall foliage, yet still want the vivacious thrill of a city, New York is a fabulous locale. The Gramercy Park Hotel is great spot to stay in because it is offers extravagant, decadent style, a prime location in the city, and a gorgeous rooftop garden that serves as a private club. Whether you choose to venture into areas outside the city for beautiful views of the deciduous changing leaves, or if you want to remain on Manhattan, venturing only as far as Central Park, New York can make for a thrilling fall vacation.

Vail Cascade Resort & Spa, Colorado

This gem of a hotel will definitely make your stay more than worthwhile as you indulge in the colorful scenery. Spend your days viewing the changing of the leaves, and retiring at night at this exemplar hotel, rich in comfort, luxury, and AAA Four-Diamond status. Exquisite interior details and outstanding mountain views are a facet of every room. For additional pampering, the Aria Spa will have you rejuvenated through your entire trip if you desire.

The changing of the seasons is one of nature’s great spectacles for the eyes. It lasts only a brief time, before fading into the gray of late autumn and winter. Why not savor it all in five-star luxury?!

The Tivoli Sao Paulo Moffarej

2011-08-14T20:57:00.015-04:00

A colleague of ours recently stayed at the Tivoli Sao Paulo (not comped, by the way), and here's her report:

I'm happy to report that the experience was just as I remembered it—excellent service, great location, in a city where five-star distinctions can sometimes be debated (and I'm being nice about that--you need to do your research in Sao Paulo!).

In Sao Paulo, your hotel location is even more important than in other major cities, because a difference of two blocks can leave you in an entirely different environment. It might not be as walkable or it might not be as fun for children, so choosing a well-recommended hotel is of paramount importance.

With security concerns in mind, I find locations close to the “main drag” of Avenida Paulista more enjoyable for a general tourist trip to S.P. . . . you are close to everything, and you can take a stroll and shop without feeling like you are sticking out in a crowd. There are several parks near the hotel as well, and while room service is always a big part of the hotel experience, I would recommend venturing out to dine as much as you can: there are tons of great restaurants in the neighborhood, plus cafes and interesting fresh juice stops. There's also a metro station right around the block from the hotel, and the MASP—the Museum of Art, Sao Paulo.

If you can swing it, get a room with a view on a higher floor. No matter where you stay in Sao Paulo, you'll find that being up and away from the street is the way to go. There's less noise, less pollution, and you can feel more comfortable opening the windows wide during the day. While the area is very nice, I also recommend double-checking on whether or not your room is renovated... some are more up-to-date than others, and if you're paying the rates, get the best.

I was told that the gym at the Tivoli is one of its strongest points, and experts were right. While some people don't like to work out during their vacation, it's another part of the experience that you won't forget. Some of the best views and best hotel memories I've had were in hotels like the Tivoli, where the gym has a bird's eye view of the city and very up-to-date equipment. (Check and check.) The Tivoli gym is also frequented by upscale city residents, to give you a good idea of just how popular it is.

While I didn't get to stay in the Presidential Suite, I've heard that is positively palatial—one of the biggest in South America, even. The entire 22^nd floor makes up the suite and includes three bedrooms, a private fitness center, a private kitchen, and a huge living/dining space that's actually larger than the hotel lobby. Don't worry, the Classic and Collection rooms are great, too.

My only problem? That the time went by faster than I would have liked! I've run into issues from time to time where I simply don't want to leave: that was definitely the case this time. I felt like time spent outside the hotel was time wasted when there was something great waiting back on Alameda Santos. But if that's my biggest complaint, then the Tivoli Sao Paulo is doing its job.

Find out more about the Tivoli Sao Paulo Moffarej here at WhataHotel.com.

The London NYC

2011-08-02T01:40:00.014-04:00

Another month, another hotel stay! This time, I was lucky enough to swing by The London NYC, where I’ve actually stayed in the past (November 2008). It was good to be back -- if you like a hotel enough in a certain city, why not come back after a few years and see how it’s changed?

In the "Big Apple" on business, I was looking for something centrally located to do some interviews and have meetings. The London NYC, while ideally positioned for a tourist, is also an excellent place to hold court for client meetings. The downstairs restaurant is a dream; the rooms are high above the streets and away from the hustle and bustle of New York that can disturb even a deep slumber if you’re not far enough away. Service is excellent, and if you want to feel glamorous? This is the place to be.

First, the setting: The London NYC is considered one of New York’s “best-situated hotels,” and you can feel that from the second you arrive. The city throbs around it, and while located on a quieter section of street, you simply turn the corner and you are in the middle of it all. You’re just blocks away from MoMA, Fifth Avenue, Times Square, Carnegie Hall and Central Park, for starters, and midtown Manhattan sets you squarely between downtown and uptown pursuits--the perfect place to be for business or pleasure.

While modern and perfectly renovated (the hotel was redone in 2006), it's not so modern or futuristic that one feels overwhelmed in its presence. The 561 Suites have fun, large windows that leave you feeling like you’re looking out of a fishbowl into a wild world--you’re in an undisturbed bubble that’s perfect for napping, working, or just recharging before a night out. I loved staying close to the windows and watching what was going on around me--The London NYC has a fun street view without the noise.

And if you want to eat while you’re in New York and at The London NYC? You’ve got to visit Gordon Ramsay’s spot, MAZE, which is called “casual yet sophisticated” by the hotel. There’s an in-suite dining menu and an exclusive Chef’s Table, and it’s been ranked for service, food, and “best experience overall” by Opentable.com. The London Bar offers breakfast and traditional afternoon tea in addition to Ramsay’s MAZE lunches, dinners, and brunches, so you don’t have an excuse to not swing by and have a bite. Who knows? It could be the best experience you have in New York--Gordon Ramsay’s been awarded a total of 16 stars from the Michelin Guide!

I've also created a cheat sheet list of all my favorite features of The London, so you can just scan and book. My mini-list of favorites follow:

1. "The BEST Concierge Service," as voted by New York Magazine (and confirmed by me)
2. Top chef in residence, described above, and great dining options in general
3. A tucked-away feel while still being center of the action
4. Attention to detail regarding design and renovation
5. Exceptional suites with interesting views
6. Fantastic decor and comfortable beds
7. Perfect work areas
8. Exclusive Complimentary Perks

What hotels have you tried in New York City?

Park Hyatt, Toronto

2011-07-26T01:09:00.018-04:00

Sometimes, the best part about traveling is staying in the hotel. Some people wouldn’t want to admit it, but if a hotel is good enough, you don’t want to leave, let alone sightsee. Dining in-room is a pleasure, exploring the spa is a treat, and if there are extra amenities involved? Add them to the list.

I recently stayed in the Park Hyatt Hotel in Toronto, Canada, adding to my roster of luxury hotel visits for comparison purposes (this trip was not comped). As someone who’s lived in the southeastern U.S. for a number of years, the trip was as much for cultural purposes as for business. While I did have an opportunity to explore the city, I have to admit that one of my favorite times was simply sitting back with one of their health-boosting smoothies from room service and enjoying the street view from my hotel room.

Located in a pristine area of Toronto, the Park Hyatt Toronto has both a big-city feel and a hamlet vibe. While the hotel itself is of the urban design variety--large, with a contemporary look--it is found near a boutique-filled shopping area that’s more reminiscent of Europe than anywhere else. Streets are small if you wander off the main path, and you’ll also find some great places to eat that way, too. If you get hungry and don't want to go far, service at the hotel itself is top-notch. (You should stay for a breakfast or two in the bistro-style Annonia restaurant downstairs--it’s delicious.)

As for the rooms? If you travel in winter, the rooms feel particularly cozy, thanks to the lighting setup and the very effective temperature controls (not to be downplayed... if you've ever stayed in a drafty hotel room, you know!). Summertime is best enjoyed from a room positioned high enough that you can see the trees from your perch--a lovely view. Featuring one of the most comfortable beds I’ve been in during my stays, the hotel provides an incredible number of pillows, spreads, throws, and robes, plus a great bathroom amenities pack. The staff was incredibly friendly--more so than in many other hotels I've stayed in--and everything went seamlessly.

If you do manage to pry yourself away from your hotel room, I highly recommend having a stroll around Yorkville. It's attractive and very interesting, but it’s also perfectly suited for the business traveler with just an afternoon off to pick up gifts. On a scale from one to ten, I'd award the Park Hyatt Toronto a perfect score. They certainly earned it.

Equestrian-Friendly Getaways

2011-07-19T09:37:00.006-04:00

Do you have a horseback-riding enthusiast in the family? When you've discovered an inn with stables and great trails, it gets tougher to book other lodging without risk of subpar guides and trails. These leads should get you booking beyond your comfort zone in no time so one can enjoy the equestrian-type vacation you want.

Twin Farms
This unique getaway of an estate is just perfect for the traveler with a lighthearted take on traveling to ride. Deep in Vermont horse country, you'll have access to riding lessons and riding trails for your exploration pleasure. However, it doesn't end there: Twin Farms has a cozy atmosphere and is located not far from the town of Woodstock, Vermont, a great spot for hiking and gallery-browsing.

Dromoland Castle
Unparalleled hospitality makes Dromoland Castle an exciting destination in Ireland for those who crave wide-open spaces. The open grounds are perfect for trekkers and strollers alike, and equestrians (and hopefuls) will appreciate the stable filled with able mares and stallions. Horseback riding lessons are available for beginning riders, while others can rent horses for the day for more experienced treks.

Sheen Fall Lodge
Sheen Falls Lodge is tucked in a magical wilderness of lush greenery, rolling hills, and even waterfalls. The beginning of this fantastic five-star hotel was in the 1600s, when the summer residence of the Marquis of Lansdowne was built in these forests, stone-by-stone. Today, the same foundations and thick walls are waiting to offer you some of the best accommodations in England. Walk along Sheen River, salmon fish, and then ride horses from the River Valley Riding Stables.

Loews Vanderbilt Hotel Nashville
You don't need to stay somewhere in the middle of nowhere to enjoy horse country. Nashville's outlying horse farms are well-known in the United States, and you can still stay in the city, with all its special perks to pamper. The Loews Vanderbilt has a fountain in the front and patio seating, and it has a stunning art gallery to boot.

Chester Grosvenor and Spa
Not a horseback rider? The Chester Grosvenor and Spa is situated close to the racecourse, so you can always enjoy your equestrian moment without actually having to get on a horse. You might not have a “high ho, silver!” scene, but you'll have a chance to dress up and take a walk near the Roman harbor. Don't forget the Chester Zoo and a boat cruise on the River Dee!

Summer Lodge Country House and Spa
If you like equestrian-friendly vacations because you like the peace and quiet of a country estate, then the Summer Lodge Country House and Spa is for you. The Dorset countryside is tranquil and calming, and Harper & Queen magazine listed the Summer Lodge as one of the 100 best places in the world.

If you're a serious horseback rider, these are the hotels for you. Since they don't just cater to horse riders, these countryside lodges, hotels, and inns in England, Tennessee, and Vermont are great for couples and family excursions. Branch out!

"Hot summer streets and the pavements are burning" ...

2011-07-17T00:37:00.009-04:00

Are you feeling a little bored, perhaps a tad lazy or simply in need of something new during these long hot days of the sizzling summer. The way to get around that general malaise brought on by the dog days of summer, without too much bother—and with a lot of fun in the mix—is to book a vacation somewhere exciting.

The Breakers, Palm Beach
It's hard to imagine a hotel spending $250 million over the course of ten years in renovations, but that's exactly what The Breakers did. The hotel sits in a prime spot in Palm Beach, as it deserves: it has a rich heritage and has been the temporary home to some great stars and notable personalities. The Breakers' tasty cuisine at on-site restaurants provides you with enough fuel to soak up the sun's rays and the warm breeze on a loungechair. That's the life.

The Lodge at Woodloch
This spa destination is considered Pennsylvania's finest, and The Lodge also offers suggestions to those who want to make their resort stay even more memorable. There are plenty of exercise classes and solo activities to enjoy, and if you just want to hit 18 holes, then the Woodloch Springs Country Club is only minutes away. Exclusive Complimentary Perks add to the deal and make it an even smarter booking.

Skamania Lodge
Haven't heard of Skamania Lodge before? That's okay, you'll get to know it well when you stroll through the hallowed halls of their rustic lodge and check out the number of waterfalls nearby—70, to be exact. Multnomah Falls, located near Skamania Lodge, is actually the fifth highest waterfall in the United States, measuring 620 feet. After you're done taking pictures, head to the dry sauna, play 18-hole golf, and hike on their trails.

Spring Creek Ranch
Love to commune with flora and fauna? You won't get any closer than at Spring Creek Ranch, which is located on a wildlife refuge. With several luxe levels of accommodations, Spring Creek Ranch gives you a taste of cowboy country without forcing you to rough it.

WaterColor Inn and Resort
This popular beach resort has received Diamond AAA ratings and has also received numerous top-notch ratings in travel magazines and more. Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, this hotel will soon show you exactly why it's called the WaterColor Inn and Resort: sunsets over the water are a dappled dream. Get an old-fashioned dish in their restaurant for some true relaxation.

These getaways are just the beginning of a late summer/early fall vacation extravaganza. No matter where you choose to go, you'll find that you won't just come back refreshed, but filled with a new light and a lot of optimism about life, sports, and the wilderness.

A guest list that includes front-page personalities

2011-07-10T00:01:00.011-04:00

Let's set the stage: The Four Seasons Maui is the most cosmopolitan property in Wailea—and perhaps Maui—offering world-class dining, superlative service, techno-savvy guest quarters and a guest list that pegs front-page personalities off the cover of Variety and the Wall Street Journal. It comes as no surprise that Michael Dell of Dell Computers owns this Four Seasons resort.

With the majority of the resort's rooms and suites arranged in a u-shape, you can get beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean from the privacy of a screened lanai. Modern luxury and Hawaiian sophistication get highlighted by the work of highly talented local artists. Which of the following rooms would you pick? It's hard to decide at first pass, and even harder after reading the descriptions of each lodging option.

Maile Suite: This seventeenth-floor suite has floor-to-ceiling windows with six connecting lanais, which afford you so much more space. A master marble bathroom per bedroom, dining room, living room, and bedrooms with one king bed, two queen beds, and two twins beds give you the home-away-from-home experience.

Lokelani Suite: This suite features a large lanai and a living area, plus a large master bath and bedroom. Overlooking a semi-private lawn, the Lokelani Suite allows views of flora and fauna, in addition to the ocean views.

Club Floor Oceanfront Prime Suite: These suites are known for the Four Seasons Maui's top-rated ocean views from a high elevation. The exclusive suites have access by private elevator to the Club Floor, which serves refreshments, afternoon teas and snacks, and meals.

Deluxe Oceanfront Suite: These rooms are designed for perfect views of the beach and of the ocean stretching beyond. The view is so good, in fact, that guests can peer out of binoculars mounted in the living room for a better look. When you get ready to hit the pool, you'll have a reserved poolside cabana set up for you as required.

Now that you've had a peek at your suite options, why not see what the experts have said about the Four Seasons Maui in the past? We've covered the location way back when, so we'll kick this off with our coverage:

WhataHotel.com: "Located on one of Hawaii's most impressive beaches, the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea has plenty of activities available right on resort grounds. If you take the family along, you can sign the kids up for the complimentary 'Kids for All Season' program while taking advantage of outdoor activities like tennis, watersports, and gold courses. Hawaii's only Mobil Five Star Resort has racked up the accolades over the years (including a Conde Nast Traveler designation as the '#1 Tropical Resort in the World.' Sound tempting?"

Conde Nast: "It's impossible to find a mediocre view from this U-shaped 'flower- and art-filled resort.' Staff greet guests with 'champagne, a cold towel, and a lei' at check-in. Rooms, in tones of blue, coral, and gold, have koa furniture and receive 'twice-daily service, with orchids left here and there.' Ferraro's has 'phenomenal Italian cuisine,' and its beach attendants serve complimentary ice water and pineapple. Also free are activities such as outrigger paddling."

Shermans Travel: "You know those ads that feature vacationers lounging by a blue lagoon pool, smiling up at the sky, eyes closed, as if to thank the sun for melting their cares away? That experience is par for the course at the 380-room Four Seasons Resort at Wailea, where impeccable service strives to ensure that every guest leaves absolutely content."

When the experts are gushing, you know you'll enjoy your hotel experience. The Four Seasons Maui at Wailea awaits!

Have You Made Time for Europe?

2011-06-27T19:43:00.006-04:00

With so much attention being paid to adventurous summer getaways and island resorts, it becomes fairly easy to forget a first love: in this case, Europe. Drenched in history, with convenient transportation and many luxury hotels, Europe provides what other destinations simply can't – a gorgeous experience with all the convenience you could need, plus the option of exploring the ancient and modern side of a single city. We recap some of our favorites here.

The Le Royal Monceau is one of the hottest places to stay in Paris after an incredible renovation took over the spot. Two years of renovation ended last fall, and the hotel opened its doors amongst much fanfare—with good reason. The complicated history of Le Royale Monceau only makes it more enjoyable to stay there – the hotel was even requisitioned during WWII – and the current interiors are sophisticated and opulent enough to give any other French hotel a run for its money.

Our Note? “The collection of hotel suites and private apartments is flanked by restaurants, bars, a kids room, a spa, and a 3D cinema, and the hotel is once again one of the best hotels in Paris.”

Speaking of Paris, it is considered one of the best places to shop in the world. The retail industry in Paris is a delicate combination of luxury shop and boutique stops, and coupled with a thriving cafe and bar culture, you could easily spend your days on the same few blocks, alternately browsing for gifts and grazing. Don't! There's much more in store for you in Paris, particularly in the way of museums.

Our Note? “Set yourself up at a cafe to plot your retail attack, and then visit the shopping spot near Place des Vogses, which is home to shops and galleries. The 'can't miss' place in Paris is certainly the 8th arrondissement, with haute couture and fashion houses lining the streets.”

If the city isn't your thing, then the English countryside is definitely what you need to get a jump-start on life in the slow lane. CNN's profiled the countryside in the past, citing its delicate balance of straw-thatched roofs and stunning luxury accommodations for every person's taste. Since England is a compact spot to explore, you don't even need to that far away from a major city.

Our Note? "While things have become more convenient and more accessible, the British countryside is still an oasis of calm. Maintaining the look of the past, English getaway destinations are more than simply manicured manor houses--they’re a balance of the past and present."

There is, of course, a runner-up for anyone who can't dedicate the time required to jet off to Europe. With tough schedules and a family to manage, a cross-continental flight could be out of the equation. While that might be the case, rest assured that you can also scoop up a European-style vacation right here at home. “America's Riviera” is located in Miami, and luxury hotels that line the beach are absolutely magnificent. When you stretch out on a chaise by a semi-private strip of sand, you'll be transported to a world of Riviera-like calm. Enjoy it.

Our Note? “Even if you live in Florida--or in Miami, for that matter--there are places to explore. Hop in a SoBe rickshaw, take an Art Deco tour, sit alongside Ocean Drive bathed in neon light... that’s just the start of the leisure options. America’s Riviera is one of the most inspiring destinations for boating and yacht enthusiasts, providing snaking canals and wide-open bay cruising for sailboats, yachts, dinghies, and even kayaks.”

This is, of course, only a bite of luxury options in Europe. Don't forget Eastern Europe, with its opulent squares and achingly-luxurious, centrally-located hotels, and then traverse back along the coast to take in rural southern Italy and Spain. Rediscovering Europe could be one of the best vacations you've had in years.

Stunning Suites and Villas Around the World

2011-06-27T04:00:00.003-04:00

There are getaways, and there are getaways. These hotel suites and villas around the world aren't just luxury destinations, but luxury experiences for travelers in-the-know. We've rounded up some of our favorite hotels and suites of the week to show you what we've been browsing. Just when you thought you knew where you wanted to stay, here comes WhataHotel.com with more suggestions.

1. Hit the beach in Jamaica.

Round Hill Hotel & Villas
Marveling at the sunset, soaking in the infinity pool, and playing tennis with all your friends can only be topped by the magnificent experience of staying at the Round Hill Hotel & Villas. These villas are private and secluded, and you can complement the whole experience with a healthy break, learning yoga and eating fresh, delicious foods.

2. Practice your Spanish in Madrid.

Hotel Villa Real
The five-star Hotel Villa Real has all the resort-worthy advantages you look for, and you'll never expect to get spoiled to this degree right in the city. The Restaurant and Bar East 47 is a hot Madrid eatery, and the spacious meeting rooms accommodate business travelers as well.

3. Go for a different Californian experience.

Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village

Villas aren't much if that's the only thing drawing you to a hotel. The Westlake is an ideal locale for total meditation and concentration, with the presence of the Health & Longevity Institute. This special property's luxury spa and wellness facility is suited for the healthy living-dedicated and those who want to jump-start a health and wellness focus. No more loafing.

4. Play Hollywood star on vacation at Lake Como.

Grand Hotel Villa Serbollini
Re-opening on November 7th, the Grand Villa Serbollini is one of the best hotels in the Lake Como area, not to mention one of the most elegant. You can head back to nature on a private tour of the historic gardens, or you can take in the countryside by bicycle. Delightful barely scratches the surface of a stay spent at the Grand Hotel Villa Serbollini.

5. Combine business and pleasure in Spain.

Hotel Villa Magna
This classic hotel offers rooms and suites that have open-air terraces and include spacious work stations for business travelers. Lest you think that this is all for the pavement-pounder, the sweet scent of “Sierra perfume” and the fabulous dining opportunities remind you that you're here to relax, at least part of the time.

6. Plan on visiting Colorado's Rockies in the summer.

Viceroy Snowmass
This year-round resort is ready for mountainous adventure at the base of one of the best ski spots in the world. The Viceroy Snowmass's great dining options and stunning views of the Colorado high country sweeten your stay, not to mention the presence of all the outdoor diversions you could want. This luxury ski resort is one of the newest on the mountain and is sure to surprise.

Villas, suites, and more await all over the world. It's hard to choose a spot, but don't forget that your runner-ups can always be scheduled for next year.

Your Island Guide

2011-06-26T23:05:00.002-04:00

We all dream of heading to a near-private island someday, perhaps with a drink in hand, and letting the stress melt away. Unlike some countries in the world, we're lucky enough to have island resort options quite close to our home base. If you don't know where to stay, but you know that you want to grab a vacation by sand and sea, these tips will prove invaluable. Luxury resorts truly are for everyone, and here's why.

It's not all about the mega-resort.
Many people think of a supersized resort experience when planning their vacations, but staying on an island doesn't guarantee the stereotypical all-inclusive experience, if that's not your thing. Lizard Island, for example, maintains Exclusive Complimentary Perks via WhataHotel.com, but it has unparalleled exclusivity when it comes to your accommodations. You'll feel like you're the only person on the beach, and your privacy is guaranteed.

You can get cultural.
Staying at an island resort does not mean you'll be setting yourself up to avoid learning at all costs. Some luxury resorts have combined cultural aspects into their décor, like art galleries and native notes, and that means you soak up the atmosphere while still not leaving your luxe zone. Consider the Ritz Carlton Grand Cayman for starters.

You can do more than lie by the beach or pool.
Don't get too lazy, because vacationing at a resort only means that you can have access to a great number of local, expert guides and special perks built into your stay. Swimming with the dolphins is a definite possibility when it comes to your vacation, if you choose the right spot, and we recommend The Kahala Resort in Hawaii if you're interested.

You don't need to bring the family.
Island vacation destinations are well-known for being popular family choices. You don't need to be trailed by the kids to enjoy your stay, and you don't need to be on your honeymoon, either. While some resorts have tons of kid-friendly diversions and daycare, other resorts are intended just for grownups. Caneel Bay, a Rosewood Resort, is a great spot to book if you want to hang solo or do a couples-vacation thing.

Your Travel Highlights

* Everyone needs to take a break from travel guides and apps while on vacation, and this "Fun Travel Tips” list is your best option. Even if you're not traveling somewhere on their list, knowing that Mexico is sinking faster than Venice could give you a hand during Trivial Pursuit.

* Don't forget that it's never too early to find perfect cities to visit on upcoming trips. Our list of European Must-Sees links hotels and special spots for the perfect degree of inspiration. London's getting a lot of press, with the 2012 Olympics coming up, but there is also Barcelona, Rome, and Berlin, for starters.

* Have a delayed flight or minor travel-related setback? Amuse yourself with the Spending the Night in Unusual Places feature on our blog, which lists cool spots to bed down the world over. Even if you're sitting in Las Vegas with a view of the strip, you can think about spending a night in a windmill after your next casino win.

Which island resort will it be for you?

Secret Roads in Rome

2011-06-23T09:49:00.007-04:00

If you've traveled to Rome before, you probably noticed that it's difficult to take in much at first pass. The streets are bustling, ruins are hidden (and yet in plain sight when you're not looking for them), and there's so much to do. Travel expert Abigail Hole took to the streets in Rome to highlight four separate streets in the city, all with distinct attractions.

Via Margutta, an Artists' Street
This area feels like a village, but it's actually in the center of Rome. Artists still work on handcrafted accessories, sculptures, and art right off the thoroughfare, and there are plenty of art galleries in the area, too.

“The street’s creative life extended beyond the visual arts,” author Abigail Hole notes. “As Rome became an essential stop on every 19th-century Grand Tour, thanks to its wealth of ancient wonders, musicians and composers came too. Debussy, Liszt and Wagner all worked in studios in the Via Margutta.”

Via Appia Antica, The Gateway
Hulking Roman structures (including tombs) line this road, which is as straight as can be and was previously intended for military use. In fact, the road leading to Rome is so straight that it's almost a wonder to behold: Engineers toiled to create Via Appia Antica.

Via del Pigneto, Bohemian Central
Graffiti and small boutiques form the background of Via del Pigneto, a real bohemian enclave. The environment smacks of another offbeat paradise, London's Shoreditch area, and you'll find the funky offerings too tempting if you like independent shops, bakeries, and intellectual hangouts.

“In a neighborhood pizzeria, hard-as-nails pizza makers banter with the late-night crowd,” Hole described. “Students talk earnestly at spindly tables, groups of friends share beers on doorsteps. Everyone’s wearing black. They’re artists, intellectuals, communists and poseurs, and sometimes all the above.”

Via Di San Giovanni in Laterano, Street of Secrets
This street is known for harboring “extraordinary treasure,” writes Hole, and that's enough to get us planning. One of Rome's most notable Catholic sites is near the Via Di San Giovanni, the Scala Santa, which is where Jesus is thought to have climbed before meeting Pontius Pilate.

Hotel Bernini Bristol
Don't have time to go to the museums? No matter, you'll have one outside your window if you pick Hotel Bernini Bristol. The hotel sits right beside the Triton fountain and the Spanish steps, and 18th-century furnishings inside your guestroom only make the experience more delightful. Some of the 127 rooms and suites have balconies for an even better view.

Hotel de Russie
The luxury five-star Hotel de Russie is found within easy walking distance to the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo. A unique luxury hotel, the Hotel de Russie features a hidden secret garden for dining and strolling. A top-ranked health club on premises gives you a chance to really unwind.

Hotel Eden
Overlooking the Seven Hills of Rome, Hotel Eden is positioned in a bustling area that will never leave you wondering what it is you should do next. In the heart of the business district, Hotel Eden has a great rooftop dining spot and plenty of cultural charm in décor and service. Don't forget to contact your concierge to learn more about memorable and entertaining diversions in one of the most culture-filled cities in the world.

Hotel Majestic Roma
Built in 1889, the Hotel Majestic Roma is an elegant jewel of a hotel positioned just steps from the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. The hotel, with its 85 guestrooms and gorgeous 13 suites, are ready for the lazy traveler who might need to be pried from her art deco-inspired room and its amenities. With Carrara marble baths and luxurious Italian furnishings, it's understandable.

Rome Cavalieri
Rome's Cavaliere hotel overlooks Rome and is situated very close to the lush Mediterranean parklands. A retreat in the city, the hotel was the first to achieve the distinction of a Waldorf-Astoria level property. This-five star destination is a stunning example of the fine accommodations waiting for you in Rome.

With all these options in Rome, you could probably plan four separate trips to this magnificent city. Why not start with the first of four this year?

The Best of WhataHotel.com, Part II

2011-06-19T20:23:00.008-04:00

We've got enough recommendations to keep you busy for a while, so it seems like the perfect time to introduce the second part of our luxury hotel list. It's not easy to decide where to go when you have a world map in front of you -- and a lot of options at WhataHotel.com -- but we're directing you towards some of our best recommendations to help you make up your mind.

Feature I

St. Petersburg's White Nights

New York Times travel writers are enamored with what summertime in St. Petersburg has to offer: long evenings of light for months. While you're in St. Petersburg, why not make a trip of it and visit Moscow, too? There are plenty of high-class luxury hotels in Russia that can offer the services you require as a discerning visitor.

Highlights

"Russian entrepreneurs have poured money into new bars, restaurants and hotels. Growing numbers of visitors from abroad, along with well-heeled Russian tourists — their wallets fat with petrodollars — and members of the increasingly mobile Russian middle class head here for summer vacations."

Feature II

What a Multimillion Dollar Facelift Can Do for a Grand Old Dame

Years of distinction haven't left this venerable vacation spot stale. The top property with views to spare is actually a cluster of separate accommodation experiences, including private villas tucked near the golf course and seaside suites with views of the ocean. A shuttle will take you to all the brand-new spots around the resort.

Highlights

"The Boca Raton Resort and Club effortlessly combines the old ways with the new, a combination of modern accommodation with service from bygone days. In February 1926, the Cloister Inn was opened as the most expensive resort in North America, and two years later, it was purchased by Clarence Geist and combined with a new golf course and cabana club."

Feature III

Hush-Hush Hideaways

Celebrities love to spend their money, but only when it's for the best. This hush-hush feature details some hotels that cater to the most famous people in the world, but that never offer any secrets about their guests. The Aman Resorts chain is one example, which is rumored to have planned Katy Perry's wedding to Russell Brand in India.

Highlights

"Being catered to like a celebrity isn't an everyday thing for we non-movie stars, but a top hotel is one of the best ways to evoke that sense of ultra-luxury. The best service, the most beautiful accommodations, and the most varied amenities await for you at these hush-hush hotels."

Feature IV

Top Places to Eat and Sleep in Paris

The City of Love has a ton of options when it comes to wining and dining. We give tips in this piece about selecting the best lodging in Paris -- for one, check if your room has undergone renovation -- and then go from there. One of our top recommendations is Le Meurice, which has been providing stunning lodging for guests since 1835.

Highlights

"The first thing to do when booking any venerable city hotel in Paris is to double-check that your booked room has been renovated. Many luxury hotels have undergone stunning transformations in the lobby area and restaurants, but there's also the chance that sections of the hotel haven't yet been retouched. By confirming your room's renovation state, you guarantee your money's worth."

Feature V

Enjoying Luxury Vacations with Kids

Have kids, will travel? Conde Nast raved about some hotel chains (like the Four Seasons) that are perfect for families traveling with children. Booking a villa instead of a guestroom will also afford you some extra space when you need it most.

Highlights

"Getting a villa to call your home-away-from-home can reduce much of the vacationing stress you normally experience when traveling with children. With another atmosphere and more space, a villa allows kids to have the run of their surroundings, comfortably, while still give parents space to breathe."

Feature VI

Checking Out Asia's Coolest Cities

Asia could seem too far away for those of us who prefer a shorter plane trip, but for an extended vacation, you can't beat the sights, sounds, and tastes of its complex and quickly-changing cities. From the Philippines to Japan, there are recommendations given that can open your eyes to a new standard of service.

Highlights

"Of all the places to travel, Asia is still one of the most mysterious destinations. It's a challenge to get to some of the smaller towns in China, Japan, and Korea, but the feeling of discovering a little-known source of tranquility and mystery is one of the things luxe-minded travelers crave."

Feature VII

A Hideaway in Uruguay

It's nice to have visited somewhere your friends haven't. This Uruguay feature entitled A Hideaway in Uruguay, Even in the City features beach towns and top-ranked hotels in this often-overlooked South American city. Don't forget that you can branch out and travel in a few other South American countries as well.

Highlights

"While you're planning your trip, take advantage of closeby countries that can also boost your relaxation factor. Skiing in Chile, eating in Argentina, and horseback riding in Uruguay should get you ready to face the daily grind again."

Feature VIII

Things to See and Do in Portland

Grab a yummy pie at the market in Portland and start planning the rest of your trip. When you have a luxe hotel to use as your home base when you are on vacation, the rest of your trip comes a lot easier. Top hotels include The Heathman and the Sunriver Resort, and top attractions include the Vera Katz Esplanade and Pittock Mansion.

Highlights

"Portland certainly is a must-visit for anyone visiting the Northwest, and its charm is surpassed only by its touristic offerings for the casual traveler. With great rest to be had at ranked luxury hotels, you'll be able to take in more of what Portland has to offer—and that's a lot."

You're probably not feeling lost about your vacation, but you are spoiled for choice. We're sure a lot of people would love to be in the same situation! Your luxury hotel awaits in whatever destination you select as your next getaway, and it's bound to be an experience of a lifetime.

The Best Holes in Golf

2011-06-19T00:13:00.014-04:00

You might be an enthusiastic leisure golfer, but do you keep track of the best holes on each course you visit? The good news is that the pros have created a run-down of the best options for you, all around the world. The tough part is picking out which resort you'll book when you do your tour.

1st Hole
Doonbeg Golf Club, Ireland

What Experts Say: “The most beautiful opening hole in the world, a gentle par five that plays slightly downhill to a green surrounded on three sides by towering dunes. From the fairway the Atlantic Ocean can be glimpsed through gaps in the dunes.”

Where to Stay: The Kildare Hotel is a AA 5 Red Star hotel, which guarantees you one of the most luxurious stays in all of Ireland. The Kildare features two championship golf courses and a fantastic river for fishing during your break from the course -- plus a spa for winding down.

5th Hole
The Abaco Club, Bahamas

What Experts Say: “Every course needs a drivable par four and this one, with the turquoise waters of Winding Bay all along the left-hand side, is a classic. Don't let the heavenly setting distract you from your game.”

Where to Stay: Stay at The Abaco Club and experience a beautiful, tranquil stop at a leading Bahamas hotel. A 534-acre oceanfront estate stretches as far as the eye can see, and it certainly features more than just golf: A European spa and fitness center, watersports lessons, and lauded dining options are just some of the interesting options.

13th Hole
Trump International Golf Club, Grenadines

What Experts Say: “The jewel in any golfing crown, this hole provides 360-degree views of the Atlantic, the Caribbean and the neighboring Grenadine Islands. Never mind the golf, this one is perfect in all sorts of ways.”

Where to Stay: The Canouan Resort at Carenage Bay features beachfront suites and private villas for the pampered visitor. Signature bars and restaurants provide exemplary dining and happy hour options post-exploration, and on your days off from golfing, spend time on the white sand beach on the 300-acre resort.

13th Hole
Canyon Course, Blue Canyon Country Club, Thailand

What Experts Say: “Teeing off over water, this hole then doglegs sharp right around a canyon uphill to a shallow green. With a forest along the left of the fairway, beauty and danger are everywhere.”

Where to Stay: Banyon Tree Bangkok provides an excellent complement to your stay at the country club. Located in Bangkok's business district, it's still perfectly situated for shopping and dining. Listed on the Gold List as one of the best places to stay in the world, the Banyon Tree Bangkok won't disappoint.

7th Hole
Pebble Beach Golf Links, California, United States

What Experts Say: “The shortest par three in Major championship golf, with the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean pounding onto the rocks behind.”

Where to Stay: Hyatt Regency Monterey Resort & Spa is a quiet, calming location not far from Pebble Beach, and it's an excellent place to unwind. Renovated accommodations have a certain peaceful appeal that can soothe the body and mind after a day out exploring.

19th Hole
Turnberry Golf Club, Scotland

What Experts Say: “With a professional tee perched 50 feet above breaking Irish Sea waves and a famous lighthouse to the left, the raw beauty of this hole represents the very best that links golf has to offer.”

Where to Stay: The Gleneagles Hotel is located on an 850-acres estate in Perthshire, and it's been awarded the AAA Five Red Star. One of the Great Golf Resorts of the World, the top-tier hotel offers superior service with Exclusive Complimentary Perks via your WhataHotel.com booking.

You've got the list and the hotel, but don't forget to check the season you're booking to stay. Who wants to plan for golf in the rainy season, or in the hottest month of the year?

The Best of 2011: WhataHotel.com's Top Recommendations

2011-06-18T23:39:00.001-04:00

Everybody needs a round-up sometimes, and today's that day here at WhataHotel.com. We paged through some of the best articles in the first half of 2011 to show you what you missed -- these are our top hotel recommendations so far.

Feature I

The Hottest Vacation Spots

We take a look at island vacations, from Honolulu to the Seychelles, and invite you to pick your top choice. All hotels featured on our master list feature Exclusive Complimentary Perks via your WhataHotel.com booking. Cocoa Island sounds particularly bewitching, doesn't it?

Feature II

Take a Mancation

With all the talk of spas, exercise studios, and kicking back by the pool, a mancation post was essential. WhataHotel.com's mancation-friendly destinations spread across the United States and include desert spots like Arizona and Texas, plus big-city spots for cosmopolitan (yet manly) breaks from the daily grind.

Feature III

What Are the Best Hotel Bars?

If you're not such of a tropical vacationer, but you want to enjoy the fruity drinks and new cocktails, then you should make a beeline for these hotel bars. The Clift Hotel, The Carlyle, and the Palazzo Sasso are some top picks for the stylish cocktail aficionado or for the amateur bartender in your life.

Feature IV

The Best Luxury Hotels in the World

What does Travel + Leisure have to say about some of the best hotels in the world? Many of the magazine's highest-ranking picks are featured on WhataHotel.com, and that means you can maximize your booking perks at resorts and hotels even ranking in the top 10. Number 4 on their list, for example, was San Ysidro Ranch.

Feature V

Best Bathroom Views

Need a good view? While having a top-ranked view from your patio might be a clincher when it comes to booking your suite, why stop there? You can also get a great view from the hotel bathroom if you choose the right destination -- plus a fantastic shower, a private pool or deep tub, and all the cozy robes you could want.

Feature VI

The Best of Presidential Getaways

Vacationing like a president might even be better than the real thing: After all, you can roam without the Secret Service trailing you. Presidents with a like for real-deal vacations included Franklin D. Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan, and you can get more info about their top spots in this feature article.

Feature VII

AAA's Five Diamond Hotels for 2011

These rare and top-ranked hotels from AAA really are the best of the best, and they span the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. With only 3% of resorts and hotels getting this special distinction, it's worth checking out and booking one for a once-in-a-lifetime treat.

Feature VIII

Bars of Barcelona

We covered top bars in the States before, but you need a Barcelona version, too. This "Bars of Barcelona" list provides a list of watering holes perfect for honeymooners, solo travelers, and adventure junkies. Try one of the best bars in the world, according to leading experts in the travel field. There's also a hotel round-up included, so you know where to stay in Spain.

Feature IX

Get Away From It All

Do you feel like you need to escape? Join the club and start packing for a vacation you'll never forget. Africa, Australia, Thailand, Kenya ... it's all there on our list of some bucket list-ready destinations around the world. Exclusive spots in corners of the world give you luxury, sans crowds.

Feature X

Islands on the Must-Visit List

A lot of us have a soft spot for island getaways, and we all would like to vacation more if given the chance. If you can carve away a comfortable vacation break, why spend it camping if you can spend it on the beach instead?

Now that we've got our first list ready for 2011, we can't wait to zing through the second half of the year to give you another round-up. Vacation plans are already buzzing for the winter season, and if that's when you'll be planning your next vacation, check out our island-centric hotel posts above.

Far-flung Vacation Destinations

2011-06-18T00:06:00.006-04:00

Stumped on where to go for your next vacation? Here are some suggestions if you are interested in a far-flung destination with luxury hotels & resorts.

For a Middle East treat, try Lebanon.
Four Seasons Hotel Beirut
The Mediterranean provides the perfect setting for a mysterious vacation in another corner of the world. A 360-degree view of Beirut allows you to view quality sunsets while in one of the most beautiful suites Lebanon hotels offer. There's even a "relaxation room" at the hotel to help you unwind. Exclusive Perks via a WhataHotel.com make your booking even sweeter.

Head to the beach in an unexpected setting -- Vietnam.
The Nam Hai
The award-winning Nam Hai is an uncluttered gift of a resort to the world-weary traveler looking for a break. This Vietnam resort set off the coast of the East Sea stretches along a half-mile expanse of white sand, and its signature dining room offers refined feasts in the Asian fusion world. Yummy doesn't begin to describe the offerings at the Nam Hai.

Go to the "South American Paris" in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Caesar Park Buenos Aires
This fabulous hotel has been highlighted in Travel and Leisure magazine as one of the top 100 best Latin American hotels. Located near the top spots in Buenos Aires, Caesar Park is also situated in a prime spot for cafe stops. Even workout buffs will be able to find the perfect place in the Caesar Park Buenos Aires, where you can arrange personal training sessions to tone while vacationing.

Park Hyatt Buenos Aires
This 1932 palace is a must-book if you're looking for traditional, European-inspired palaces tucked away in Buenos Aires. In a residential area with upper-class homes and lots of places to shop, you'll feel right at home. Be sure to take your camera with you when you are exploring the nearby highlights: The refined, white building is near MALBA and Puerto Madero.

Take a drive to the Irish countryside.
Kildare Hotel, Spa Country Club
Sprawling and absolutely luxurious, the Kildare Hotel, Spa Country Club has some of the highest standards of luxury in the entire country. A 40-minute drive from Dublin and yet positioned in the unforgettable Irish countryside, the Kildare Hotel, Spa Country Club features the K Spa and Ryder Cup Palmer Course for guests. For an unforgettable stay, this is the place.

Visit the canals and go to Amsterdam.
The Dylan Amsterdam
This 17th-century landmark is positioned near one of Amsterdam's most famous canals, the Keizersgracht. This particular hotel features an intimate atmosphere and great service, coupled with top-notch shopping just steps away from your door. Book a table at the hotel restaurant, Restaurant Vinkeles, which is award-winning.

If you're still stumped, you can always pick one of these great destinations randomly. At least you know that your selection will be high-class and luxury-minded no matter where you decide to go.

M. Sawyer

Catching the Best Waves Near Bali

2011-06-15T10:29:00.000-04:00

Are you interested in surfing? Even if you've never grabbed a longboard before, it's better to invest in a spot that will provide the right environment for a proper lesson. Big waves, rocky surf, and wide-open beaches are all part of the surfing experience, and they are part of a top hotel visit, too -- when you choose the right place, of course.

Bali

One of the most popular places to vacation in the world, Bali still maintains mystery and exclusivity.

What the Experts Say: “Bali, with its glut of world class surf spots, is the epicentre of Indonesian surfing. Any surf trip here almost invariably begins at Kuta, the original Indonesian beach resort. The waves here offer something for everyone.”

===Hot Hotel===

St. Regis Bali: The Garden of Bali awaits. Perfect, pristine beaches outside the St. Regis Bali only heighten its lavish interior decor. This hotel offers personalized service and a top-rated spa far away from the worries of "real life." 121 suites and villas are decked out in tasteful Balinese art, and your accommodations feature a balcony and large marble bathroom.

Java

Culture and beauty collide in Java, an intriguing vacation spot with plenty of clues to ancient life in the East.

What the Experts Say: “The most famous wave on Java, Bali’s northern neighbour, is G-Land (also known as Grajagan). This is one of those freak of nature waves which all other waves are measured against. Endlessly long, flawlessly perfect and super consistent, G-Land is most commonly reached via boat charter from Bali.”

===Hot Hotel===
Como Shambhala Estate: Next door to a hot surfing spot, the Como Shambhala Estate features blended east-west accommodations and careful detailing. With each room individually furnished according to a specific theme, you can return and have an entirely fresh experience with each visit. A Personal Assistant assigned to you during your stay ensures that everything you need is delivered.

Sumatra

Breathtaking views and bustling city life give you a chance to experience it all in Sumatra.

What the Experts Say: “An almost hypnotically perfect righthander, this wave has always been considered perfect, but following the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami, the wave actually improved dramatically. The reef rose upward by around a metre and made the wave faster and much more consistent.”

===Hot Hotel===

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan: If you have little ones who are interested in starting their careers as pro surfers early, then you might want to try booking a stay at the Four Seasons. This kid-friendly luxury chain is a perfect choice for the traveler looking for ocean views, adventurous travel, and children-positive perks in the same place.

Nusa Tenggara

A "travel secret" of Indonesia, Nusa Tenggara is home to extremely friendly people and fantastic waves.

What the Experts Say: “Lombok, the closest island to Bali, is the most visited by surfers and the jewel in the surf crown here is the legendry Desert Point, possibly the best wave in the world. It is a highly fickle wave but when all the elements come together, this near endless, freight train lefthander offers tube rides of up to 20 seconds.”

===Hot Hotel===
Four Season Resort at Jimbaran Bay: A great view from your plunge pool; terrific oceanside dining. It's hard not to enjoy the atmosphere and spirituality of this peaceful, romantic land. Plus, it's a nice contrast from bashing around in the waves as you learn how to surf.

Even if you're not the surfer in the family, these hotels won't do you wrong. Sinking into a luxury suite at night, waking to see the sun rise over the ocean, and basking under a palm tree certainly doesn't sound bad -- and then you can let the athletic ones in the family have all the lessons they want.

St. Petersburg's White Nights

2011-06-15T10:28:00.002-04:00

St. Petersburg's beauty hasn't been waxed about as often as Venice's intrigue or Paris's romantic side, but that doesn't mean it's not alluring. And in summer? Even more so. A jewel in Eastern Europe and one that's rough-cut in comparison to its companions in the west, the city captured NYT travel writers this summer, who recommend visiting to experience Russia's “White Nights.”

A love affair with Russia can even start with a slight scent of gasoline in the air and the view of a gold-tipped cathedral in the distance. Despite a slightly rocky start to his journey, journalist Joshua Hammer with the New York Times muses:

"You’ll find celebrations of St. Petersburg’s White Nights in virtually every corner of this sprawling, watery metropolis. Dance clubs and 'beach clubs' — including the most exclusive, the Royal Beach Club on Krestovsky Island, a forested park that draws many of the city’s affluent young people — stay open until at least 6 a.m. on White Nights weekends."

Had you heard of the White Nights in St. Petersburg? They sound dizzying, stunning, and altogether mysterious to those of us who don't give much thought to daylight hours in places farther up north. Around 80 summer nights in St. Petersburg will be characterized by near 24-hour sunlight: The biggest draw isn't the natural phenomenon, however, it's the atmosphere that makes it particularly enticing.

"Russia’s booming economy has rejuvenated St. Petersburg, and the White Nights have become more and more lively," Hammer notes.

Planning a trip to St. Petersburg gets even easier when you already have leads on where to stay.

Booking Suggestions for Your Stay in Russia: St. Petersburg and Moscow

Grand Hotel Europe

The Grand Hotel Europe is a cultural and historical landmark for travelers, and it has been for an incredible 135 years. This hotel features charming Russian hospitality, complete with special amenities and nearby cultural gems in the city. Visit the Russian Museum and the theatre before retiring to your splendid room or suite

Rocco Forte Hotel Astoria

The Rocco Forte Hotel Astoria in St. Petersburg is a five-star wonder. Positioned in St. Isaac's Square close to the action, the hotel has 42 suites with contemporary facilities for your vacationing comfort. Authentic Russian cuisine can be had at the Davidov Restaurant on-site.

Arayat Park Hyatt Moscow

Why not surround yourself with beauty when you're enjoying the brighter summer nights in Russia? The Arayat Park Hyatt is located in the center of Moscow and is within the immediate vicinity of such grand city highlights at the Bolshoi Theatre, the Red Square, and the Kremlin. Views from the hotel can be of either courtyard or city, and the amenities within are top-notch, of course.

Ritz Carlton Moscow

This particular hotel is so perfectly positioned in Moscow that you can enjoy its beauty at any time of the year: Imagine what it's like to get the best at this hotel during the lazy days of summer. Ask a personal butler to help you plan a picture-perfect evening, or do it yourself--Moscow is laid out at your feet at the Ritz Carlton Moscow. This unforgettable hotel is situated just steps from the Red Square.

I don't know about you, but it sounds like these White Nights are a Bucket List-worthy addendum. Why not combine the wonders of St. Petersburg with a whirlwind trip around Russia this summer?