Savor the Sights of Florence at Hotel Continentale's Rooftop Bar

The only thing better than being in Florence? Being on a rooftop in Florence.  Our sister publication, Luxury Travel Advisor, has a peek at Hotel Continentale's rooftop bar, La Terazza. Jena Tessa Fox writes:

Perched on top of a 13th century medieval tower, Florentine architect Michele Bonan reinterpreted the glamour of the 1950s Italian film and fashion scene in his re-design of La Terazza. With the addition of an open fireplace and heated benches the Continentale’s rooftop terrace La Terrazza will be open to welcome guests all year round.

To coincide with the re-launch of La Terrazza, the Continentale has been working with some of Florence’s best mixologists to develop a new drinks menu. Featuring signature Italian cocktails such as the Negroni – a blend of gin, vermouth rosso and Campari – and new interpretations of the Vesper Martini (made famous by fictional spy James Bond), La Terrazza has something for everyone.

More about La Terraza >>

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Refined Seasonal Eating at Relais Santa Croce's Guelfi e Ghibellini

Guelfi e Ghibellini is the restaurant located on the hotel grounds of Relais Santa Croce hotel in Florence, Italy. A perfect blend of traditional and modernity in Tuscan cuisine, the menu is seasonal and changes every three months dictated by the ingredients local markets have to offer. Guests are welcomed by a marble fireplace and black leather armchairs that create an atmosphere of sophisticated elegance, which guests can uncannily taste in their meals at Guelfi e Ghibellini. The tables are decadently laden with traditional Italian blown glassware, amongst an in-depth selection of different flavors of olive oil. The menu is also known to slightly change on a day-to-day basis, as the talented young local chefs like to enhance the menu with daily produce from local markets. As Italians are known for their artisanal craftsmanship in everything they produce, it is no surprise the same sentiment is trickled into their food. For example, all pastries are made strictly by hand in order to deconstruct the traditional and transform it into a contemporary gastronomical experience.

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Image of the Day: Hotel Il Salviatino

When you stay at Hotel Il Salviatino, all of Florence is at your feet.

View photos, details, and rates at Hotel Il Salviatino >>

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Spend New Year's Eve with Marilyn Monroe

Don't the let the pesky little fact that the legendary sex symbol is no longer alive put a damper on your New Year's Eve. You can still say Ciao to 2012 and Buon giorno to 2013 with Marilyn Monroe at your side.  The divine Renaissance villa turned luxury hotel Il Salviatino has dreamed up a New Year with Marilyn package.  You'll enjoy a show-stopping 1950s themed New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner inspired by the very best music,
style and fashion this iconic era is famous for. You'll dine on gourmet food and then dance away 2012 to the sounds of Marilyn Monroe and The Rat Pack.


The Package includes:

Two nights in the room or suite of your choice
Full à la carte breakfast
Welcome drink
Seasonal welcome gift
The New Year’s Eve gala dinner (excluding drinks)
Special New Year’s brunch on January 1st
A farewell gift
Guaranteed late check out on your departure day

Prices start at € 1,178.10 for a Deluxe double room.

Additional terms and conditions apply, and space is limited, so book today!

Amazing FSA Rates for Il Salviatino!

What, the hand-restored 15th century villa with views of Florence and the rolling Tuscan landscape aren’t enough for you?
How about the Michelin-starred chef? The Spa at Salviatino by Vranjes?  The terrific location just 15 minutes from the
heart of Florence? Any one of these would be a terrific reason to book a stay at  Il Salviatino.  But now there’s even
more incentive.  Now through 2013,  Five Star Alliance fans can book an exclusive FSA rate at Il Salviatino.  Included in the rate:

*Welcome gift upon arrival

*Complimentary upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)

*Complimetary wi-fi

*A la carte breakfast

*Late check-out (subject to availability)

*Complimentary aperitif

To take advantage of this great offer, simply search your travel dates on Five Star Alliance, and book the "Five Star Alliance Rate."

Book early to avoid disappointment. 

Your Questions Answered: Best Hotels in Florence

We at Five Star Alliance work tirelessly to ensure we bring you the best luxury hotels selection and information regarding amenities, location, and highlights so you are confident that the hotel you choose will exceed your expectations and serve your needs. Sometimes, however, you are left with a few questions that go unanswered, and that’s why we’re here. Be sure to explore our new blog series ‘Your Questions Answered’ to find answers to real questions submitted to us by our clients regarding traveling with kids, pets, the best beach hotels, and much more.

Question: Can you recommend one of your properties in Florence? One adult, check in November 2 and spend three or four nights. Looking for fantastic view, and prefer walking access to top sites. I've never been to Italy before.

Answer: We have 32 luxury properties in Florence, and we would suggest visiting this website and entering your dates of travel to view the hotels that have availability as well as their photos, prices, and location descriptions.

A few that we would recommend would be the Hotel Bernini Palace which is located in a historical 15th century palazzo in the heart of Florence and has rates starting from 209 Euros per night. Another hotel we'd recommend is Villa San Michele which is a 15th-century Franciscan monastery has now been transformed into one of Europe's most charming and picturesque hotels, only a few minutes from the centre of Florence. Rates start from 368 Euros per night. Please be advised that the rates and availability are subject to change prior to making a reservation.

Image of the Villa San Michele

Image of the Day: San Gallo Palace Hotel

Breakfast al fresco in Florence, courtesy of San Gallo Palace Hotel.

Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2012: Villa San Michele

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 Villa San Michele is featured on the Gold List 2012: Best for service. This luxury hotel was a 15th century monastery which was converted into one of Europe’s most charming luxury hotels. Its located only a few minutes from the center of Florence, and it is surrounded by its own gardens and woodlands of the Fiesole hills. The Villa San Michele goes above and beyond to ensure that its guests are comfortable and have everything they need for a lavish and enjoyable stay.

Check rates, availability, photos and more at the Villa San Michele here!

Amazing Restaurant Package at the Relais Santa Croce in Florence

The Relais Santa Croce is a luxurious 5-star hotel that has a special package that allows you to experience the incredible food of Florence. It is situated in the historic center of Florence, and it is the ideal location for those seeking the intimacy of a private setting. Your passion for art, beauty, and delectable cuisine will certainly be met due to this hotel’s proximity to historic paintings, beautiful sculptures, architectural masterpieces, and this incredible package!

8 Star Gourmet Emotional Experience

This special package includes a welcome cocktail, a welcome gift upon arrival, one dinner at the exclusive Relais Santa Croce Florence “Guelfi & Ghibellini” restaurant, including the wine selection of their sommelier, one dinner at the “Enoteca Pinchiorri” restaurant including their Sommelier wine selection, late check-out, and a one way transfer from or to Florence railway station or airport.

View rates, availability, and photos here! Make your reservations today!

A Boutique Critique: JK Place Firenze is No Joke

I have a special place in my heart for tiny boutique hotels.  It may be a little smaller than some of the other chambers, and there aren't enough spots for everybody, but that just makes the few who do make their way into my good graces all the more special.  I can give each and every one the loving care and attention they deserve. And thus began my new segment on boutique hotels that I just adore.

Starting off this series is a relatively new kid on the block, at least as far as Five Star Alliance is concerned.  The JK Place Firenze has just joined our collection, and we're more than excited to bring them on board, we're...more excited?  Weighing in at just a 20-room property, it's almost more a home than a hotel, and that, in my opinion, is what the boutique hotel is all about.  Some go the flashier, avante garde route, but the JK Place Firenze has firmly defined itself as the kind of property that immediately sets you at ease as you walk through its front doors.  The neo-classical decor is reminiscent of the collection one might build up in a home with a lot of history.  Intentionally ecclectic and always tasteful, the antique collectibles and 50s and 60s furniture lend an air of panache to the intimate setting.  

The hotel plays home to the J K Lounge, which offers some wonderful dining, and you'll be well within reach of the all the finest establishments in Florence.  It's the perfect outpost to explore the city from, a home away from home.  So be sure to check out the JK Place Firenze for the kind of personal attention that only a boutique hotel can offer.