Top 5 Romantic Valentine's Day Hotels: #3 Hotel Plaza Athenee

For a city like Paris, its romantic image the stuff of fairy tales, it is almost impossible to pick our favorite romantic hotel.  Whether an iconic mainstay of the cityscape or a small boutique hotel tucked away in a charming neighborhood, each jewel in the Parisian crown has its sparkle. So instead of evaluating by some arbitrary metric, like roses/sqm or candles of candlelight, I just thought to myself, "Where would I take my girlfriend if I found myself in Paris just a few weeks from now?"  And once I stopped troubling myself with the details, the answer came quickly:  The Hotel Plaza Athenee. It's everything you could desire for your romantic evening, a dream of a hotel within a dream of a city. And for the girl of your dreams, how could you ask for anything less? 

Whether you're staying in the Eiffel Signature Exclusive Suite with a view onto the tower itself or a cozy room tucked away for perfect privacy, the Hotel Plaza Athenee promises to make a night you'll forget in the moment but remember forever. And with staff members outnumbering rooms nearly 3 to 1, you'll be sure that every detail is inch-perfect.

To set the evening off right, simply go downstairs to experience the cuisine world-renowned chef Alain Ducasse. The lightest brush of your lips against the bouquet of flavors in each of his dishes will create a never-before experienced synesthesia, a fusion of light and color emanating from your taste buds.  Savor each bite as time itself begins to slow to a rest. And when you pair your meal with a bottle of the finest French wine, well, I don't even have to tell you.

It's a rare hotel indeed that I can recommend without reservation, but I guarantee that the Hotel Plaza Athenee will give you the Valentine's day experience you didn't even know you were looking for.

The New Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort Set to Open in 2014.

I go to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida quite often. As a seasoned traveler and travel writer, many people ask me why I would even bother visiting a place that many feel is... less challenging. It's a good question, I always say, and it is true that trekking across East Africa while trying to remember how to negotiate a bus fare in Swahili makes for a good adventure and an even better story. Nonetheless, sometimes I don't want to work when I travel, rather I prefer the ease of a place that takes that burdenaway, and just let's me relax and enjoy. That place, often as not, is Walt Disney World.

Yet while Disney offers a fine selection of on-site hotels to choose from, the latest announcement got me all in a tizzy. Amazingly, a world-renowned luxury hotel brand was given permission to open up its own property among the Mouse House's best, and just steps away from the theme parks. Ladies and gentelmen, I present to you: Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World!!!

No, that is not a mistake! The one and only Four Seasons brand is bringing their unique luxury to Walt Disney World, allowing my perfect, relaxing stays to get that much better. Not only will I have the wonder of Disney Magic, but also the luxuriousness of the Four Seasons. Opening in 2014, the new property will be spacious at 444 rooms, with all the amenities like golfing, spas, and fine dining that they're known for. Plus, being on-site at Disney World allows easy access to all four theme parks and Downtown Disney with the comfort and speed of Disney's transportation network. Oh yeah, and if that isn't enough, you get to stay late in Disney parks as part of the on-site Extra Magic Hours privileges! Of course, with the plush Four Seasons rooms to come home to, coming back for a nap just got a little more inviting.

So look for the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World as it opens in 2014. Be sure to book ahead, as the place will certainly fill up fast. And look for me when you get there. I'll probably be relaxing by the pool, daydreaming about that bumpy ride on potholed roads in Tanzania, and darn glad that I'm somewhere a little less challenging.

The New Four Seasons Resort Disney World will include:

• Several dining venues including a rooftop restaurant with Magic Kingdom views
• 14,000 square foot (1,300 square metre) spa with 18 treatment rooms and fitness center
• Three pools and a “lazy river”
• Sports facilities including tennis courts, basketball court and climbing wall
• Two recreational centres for children, teens and families
• Approximately 37,750 square feet (3,500 square metres) of meeting and event space plus a business centre.

From the Four Seasons press release: "The development will encompass the existing Tom Fazio-designed Osprey Ridge 18-hole championship golf course, which will be renovated and subsequently managed by Four Seasons. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is an enclave located within the Golden Oak residential community, created and master-planned by Disney."

Courting Favor with St. Giles: The Hotel Next Door

 Yesterday, I posted that the St. Giles Tuscany is undergoing a major renovation, which might have the potential to make the more impatient among us sad that we'll have to wait until August to see what's in the pipeline.  Fortunately for those of us who just can't get enough of St. Giles, just next door their sister property St Giles The Court remains open and waiting for your business.  A similar boutique hotel with a cool metropolitan feel, the Court is a perfect shopping hotel.  Just a few blocks from 5th Avenue, you won't find a better home base to peruse the latest in New York fashion.  And when you can't help but bring back some with you, the Court offers ample closet space for all your new acquisitions.

With seven top-of-the-line meeting rooms and a popular Lounge bar, the Court is ready for whatever  business arrangement, romantic getaway, or special event you can throw at her.  And with rates starting at $189/night, you'll be sleeping in the city that never does for a great price compared to much of the competition.  And once the Tuscany reopens next door, St. Giles The Court New York can only get better.

Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2012: BLUE Sydney

We understand that no one aims to come in second place; there is no recognition for mediocrity. We at Five Star Alliance understand better than anyone the importance of offering the most luxurious resorts in the world, so we notice what’s going on in the industry, and it matters to us, because it matters to you. We work hard to offer you the best in the industry, and we’d like to welcome you to our second blog series where we feature the best and most luxurious resorts in the world. But don’t take our word for it. These resorts have been recognized as the best in the business and have made the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2012.

The Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2012 is the eighth of their annual lists, and the hotels chosen by their team of editors and experts are the best for service, food, location, rooms, leisure facilities, ambiance and design.

The BLUE Sydney, Australia is featured on the Gold List 2012: Best for location. It is a contemporary boutique hotel located on the historical wharf right on Sydney Harbor, providing guests with access to the latest entertainment and best dining options. Its 100 luxurious rooms feature the latest concepts in accommodations to provide travelers of all types with lavish comfort. The BLUE Sydney is perfectly situated 15 minutes from Sydney Airport and next to the Royal Botanical Gardens.  It's also a 10 minute walk from the business and shopping districts, as well as the Sydney Opera House. Talk about an incredible location! Be sure to make reservations at the BLUE Sydney and be in on all the exciting happenings in Australia!

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the Mandarin Oriental, New York

With Valentine’s Day a few short weeks away, it’s time to start planning your special night with that special someone. Instead of the traditional chocolate and flowers, consider doing something exciting and outside the norm. Take advantage of the various packages at the Mandarin Oriental, New York, and have a celebration neither of you will ever forget!

The Mandarin Oriental, New York is centrally located at the union of Columbus Circle and Central Park, and it redefines luxury as New York City’s most striking and refined hotel. Check out the unique packages and events going on at the Mandarin Oriental, New York during the month of February for a Valentine’s Day unlike any other.

Bourbon & Bubbly in the Lobby Lounge

This package is designed as a “his & hers” evening on the 35th floor in the Lobby Lounge, with breathtaking views of Central Park. The gentleman can enjoy the deep tastes of From Kentucky With Love, a mix of Woodford Reserve Bourbon Whiskey, carpano vermouth, chocolate mole bitters, chestnut and vanilla purree, garnished with a bourbon-soaked cherry paired with smoked almonds and chocolate truffles. The lady can enjoy her afFAIR to Remember, a bubbly combination of Crème Yvette Violet Liquer, Yuzu juice, topped with champagne and a splash of FAIR Goji Liqueur while enjoying a plate of chocolate-covered strawberries.

This package is available throughout the month of February and it is priced at 50 USD plus tax and service charge. It includes both cocktails, chocolate truffles, and chocolate-covered strawberries. Reservations are recommended.

Valentine’s Day Dinner with Romantic Sky-High Views in Restaurant Asiate

Make a reservation at Asiate, the elegant fine dining restaurant at the Mandarin Oriental, New York for a beautifully romantic Valentine’s Day. Asiate will have a special prixe fixe dinner menu on Tuesday, February 14th, and the 4-course prix fixe menu seating will begin between 5:30 and 6:30 pm for 150 USD per person. The 5-course prix fixe menu seating will begin between 8:30 and 9:30pm for 250 USD per person. Enjoy the exquisite food and the company of your special someone while taking in the breathtaking sky-high view of New York City. Prices are per person and do not include beverages, taxes, or gratuity.

Make your reservations today and take advantage of the romantic and exciting events at the Mandarin Oriental, New York!

White Up My Alley: Bianca Opens at the Delano in Miami Beach

The notoriously blinding Delano Hotel in Miami Beach is opening the doors to its new restaurant, Bianca, this Friday.  Continuing the theme of its all-white guest rooms, Bianca promises to add to an already exclusive and delightful property.  Embracing the Slow Food movement, Bianca provides a gastronomical experience that supports local farming and organic produce, so you know that not only is what you're getting a top-notch holistic food experience, it also does its part to respect its origins. You'd better come prepared with your Visa Platinum, however.  Not only will its silvery sheen go well with the drapes, you'll need it to put back such highlights as All Natural Sirloin Bistecca at $46. 

If you can wait for a little while, then come February, the Ume Sushi and Sake Bar will be opening alongside its Italian counterpart for an experience in the best of Eastern cuisine.  Definitely worth a trip to the Delano, now for both the unique decor and the food.  

New York Renaissance: St. Giles Hotel The Tuscany Remodels, Reopens in August

Adopting the style of the classical renaissance and infusing it with a cool modernism, the St. Giles Hotel New York - The Tuscany brings the high culture of its namesake to bustling New York City. And right now it is undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation to update and improve the luxury boutique experience. In many ways, its renovation is just another chapter in its storied history; feet firmly grounded in its venerated past, the St. Giles always looks forward, seeking constantly to innovate on the firm traditions that make it one of New York’s clear hotspots. Reopening in August 2012, guests will enjoy hardwood floors, modern over-sized bathrooms with LATHER^TM Spa Shelf and products.

And if the room upgrades aren’t enough to entice you, look no further than the full-service upscale restaurant and in-room private dining or take your party up to the Penthouse suite, covering the 17th floor and encircled by a wrap-around terrace that looks out on the iconic New York skyline. All of the hotel’s 123 studios and lofts are quiet, comfortable, spacious, and sophisticated; qualities that I wish described more of my homes-away-from-home.

When you’re ready to head out for the night, simply step out the door into the heart of Manhattan. Just steps from Grand Central Station on 39th St. between Park and Lexington, you’ll be ideally located to experience everything New York has to offer. Don’t wait until too late to start thinking about your next stay at the St. Giles Hotel New York – The Tuscany.  We've got our eye on this one.

The May Fair Hotel has Availability for London Olympics!

The majority of luxury hotels in London have been sold out for the 2012 Summer Olympics, but a few have luckily been able to release some rooms back into the system! Check out the following 5-star hotel that currently has availability for various dates ranging from July 27th – August 12th. Be sure to make your reservations as soon as possible; these availabilities won’t last long!

The May Fair Hotel has between 5 to 10 of each room type available. These rooms are subject to 20% Government Tax, and there is a minimum of 3 nights stay required. These are full prepay rates that are non-cancellable.

The May Fair Hotel is a luxury 5-star hotel centrally located in the most fashionable area of Mayfair. It is a 1 minute walk to the Green Park Tube Station and a 3 minute walk to Piccadilly Circus. All of the rooms are a generous size with the standard king room starting at 350 square feet, making the May Fair Hotel’s rooms some of the largest in London. A few key features of this hotel are that it offers complimentary wireless internet access, a private theater, and a luxurious spa.

The May Fair Hotel currently has the following room types available:

Queen

King Superior

Twin Superior

King Deluxe

Family Room with 2 Queen Beds

Studio Suite

Please be advised that rates and availability are subject to change prior to making a reservation. Make your reservations today to ensure that you’ll be in the heart of the action for the 2012 Summer Olympics!

B(eyond) Africa: Red Carnation from London to Cape Town

The Red Carnation Hotel collection is widely regarded as one of the best international collections of independent and boutique hotels.  From the currently hotly-contested 41 Hotel to the Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa in Cape Town, expect to see big things from these hotels this year.  The Twelve Apostles is opening up their newly redesigned spa alongside a series of deluxe beauty products fashioned from African plant extracts such as avocado butter and Ximenia kernel oil.  Look forward to being treated with crystal-infused body oils or a fynbos sugar scrub or other highlights of the B|Africa series at any of Red Carnation's African locations, from the Twelve Apostles to Bushman's Kloof or Durban's The Oyster Box.  The Oyster Box was itself named the Best Luxury Wellness Spa South Africa at the World Luxury Hotel Awards 2011.  Capped by an iconic lighthouse and heaping helpings of colonial charm, the Oyster Box is one of South Africa's very best luxury hotels.  

As for the Twelve Apostles, you can enjoy its 55 rooms and 14 suites in any of four secluded wings, connected by open walkways and featuring gorgeous mountain and sea views.  Rooms especially for the business traveler help pull you away from the astounding vistas by offering special lighting in a generous work space and, as it almost goes without saying these days, high speed internet access.  Regardless of what brings you to Cape Town, Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is certainly a great place to stay.  And you keep on the lookout for more from Red Carnation Hotels; I know I'm excited to see what they come up with next.

Luxury Hotels near the Las Vegas Convention Center

This blog series is for all of the business travelers who are looking for a luxury hotel that is located near the Convention Center of specific cities. We understand that you have places to be, people to meet, and conferences to attend, so we try to make your travels as stress-free and convenient as possible without forgoing luxury.

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority is our center of focus for this blog post. The following are 5 star hotels located less than two miles from the Convention Center. We’ve listed them in order of proximity, and they are all a speedy cab ride away!

Encore Wynn las Vegas – located 1.1 miles from the Convention Center.

Wynn Las Vegas – located 1.1 miles from the Convention Center.

Trump International Hotel and Tower Las Vegas – located 1.3 miles from the Convention Center.

Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino – located 1.4 miles from the Convention Center.

Venetian – located 1.7 miles from the Convention Center.

Caesars Palace – located 1.9 miles from the Convention Center.

Traveling somewhere else? Keep up with our blog series and check out the luxury hotels located near the Convention Center in the following cities: Boston, Montreal, Washington D.C., and San Diego.