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LUXURY HOTEL INSIDER

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The Luxury Hotel Insider: Exclusive luxury hotel deals, features and special rates from the luxury hotel experts at Five Star Alliance.
Named one of Tripbase's Best Luxury Travel Blogs for 2011, below are Five Star Alliance's newest articles featuring exclusive information on luxury hotels worldwide including special offers and deals at the world's best hotels.

| By: Rachael Weir

Set within a two-story circular building, the two Pacific Suites at Post Ranch Inn offer one-of-a-kind Pacific Ocean views, along with private entrances, custom-built furniture, wood-burning fireplaces, and radiant-heated floors. The curved interiors open up to ocean views, which can be enjoyed from the living room, bedroom, shower, and large soaking tub. While the curved outdoor private decks of each suite have stainless steel outdoor hot tubs. Continue reading below the photo of the Pacific Suite. 

Pacific Suites at the Post Ranch Inn

Within each of the Pacific Suites, is a bedroom with a king bed featuring an organic mattress and linens, wood-burning fireplaces, stereos with digital music systems, minibars, and iPod docking stations. While the luxe bathrooms have indoor spa tubs, organic bath products, terry cloth robes, and slippers. Plus, each suite is equipped with binoculars and walking sticks for taking in the natural surroundings. 

Reservations in the Pacific Suites including a daily gourmet buffet breakfast, a minibar with snacks and non-alcholic beverages, WiFi, valet parking, and complimentary activities including daily yoga, guided nature hikes, stargazing, and garden tours, as well as access to the infinity and swimming pools. Learn more about the hotel and an exclusive Five Star Alliance Perk below the photo.

Pool at the Post Ranch Inn

The Post Ranch Inn is an adults only property, situated high atop the cliffs of Big Sur. Rising 1,200 feet above the Pacific Ocean, the hotel is a secluded and romantic retreat providing rustic elegance with panoramic mountain and ocean views. At the Wine Spectator Award-winning Sierra Mar restaurant, guests can experience a menu that changes daily, as well as an extensive wine list. For relaxation and rejuvenation, the award-winning spa provides a variety of services including body treatments, shamanic sessions, facials, and massages. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also receive a $100 food and beverage credit per room/per stay (excludes alcohol, taxes, and gratuities). 

Check availability at Post Ranch Inn


| By: Rachael Weir

Featured Journeys: California Wine Country

From rolling vineyards to tasting rooms, to picnics amongst the vines, a vineyard vacation offers a relaxing, and perhaps romantic retreat. In this edition of Featured Journeys we're heading to Northern California's Wine Country with a multi-stop itinerary to Sonoma, Napa, and Monterey. 

There's a variety of airport options for this trip. Travelers could choose to fly roundtrip to San Francisco International, or another option would be to fly into Charles M. Schulz - Sonoma County Aiport (STS) and fly out of the Monterey Regional Airport (MRY). Regardless the itinerary, the drive between each stop is sure to provide panoramic scenery.

Sonoma

Situated about 45 minutes north of San Francisco, Sonoma County offers a genuine wine country experience, with 76% of tourism businesses being small businesses, and 91% percent of the tourism businesses are locally-owned. This area is all about local cuisine, local growers, and of course, local wines. The area has a thriving art and food scene, and there's an array of outdoor opportunities like exploring the redwoods, hot air balooning, and vineyard hikes. Love the Peanuts Gang? A visit to this region wouldn't be complete without a trip to the Charles M. Schulz Museum with a collection dedicated to providing an in-depth look into the life and legacy of Peanuts comic strip creator, Charles M. Schulz. 

Farmhouse Inn

King Dux Room at Farmhouse Inn

Situated in the Russian River Valley about 1.5 hours north of San Francisco, the Farmhouse Inn is family-owned, by owners with Sonoma roots dating back five generations. Surrounded by the towns of Healdsburg and Santa Rosa, the boutique property's restaurant is the recipient of a Michelin Star, there are Sommelier-led wine tours, and rooms have feather beds and curated wine refrigerators.

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK:  Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate or "Best Available Rate" will also include full breakfast for two daily - a maximum daily credit of $50 per room, a $100 spa services credit per room/per stay, an in-room welcome amenity, and complimentary WiFi.

Check rates at the Farmhouse Inn

Explore more Sonoma Luxury Hotels

 

Napa

From tasting rooms to stylisth boutiques, Napa Valley is haven for wine lovers and foodies alike. There are 6 Napa Valley restaurants that have received the prestigious Michelin Star, there's an array of cooking schools and five star accommodations in the heart of the vineyards, and the area is a hot spot for bakeries, chocolatiers, coffee, and gelato shops for those that want a little something sweet to pair with the wine. Music enthusiasts will want to note the area's music events which include Yountville Live (March), BottleRock Napa Valley (May), and the Robert Mondavi Concert Series which begins in July. 

Las Alcobas Napa Valley

Las Alcobas Napa Valley

Across from Beringer Vineyards, Las Alcobas Napa Valley is a luxury boutique hotel nestled in St. Helena. Set within a stately Victorian-style farmhouse built in 1907, the property offers accommodations designed by Yabu Pushelberg, with custom-crafted furniture and minimalist design. The signature restaurant, Acacia House serves award-winning California cuisine led by Top Chef Master Chris Cosentino. While the atrio spa offers a rejuvanating spa experience within a former farmhouse, and the outdoor pool provides one-of-a-kind vineyard views.

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking with Five Star Alliance receive daily full breakfast for each guest at Acacia House, a $100 spa credit per room/per stay, and a seasonal welcome amenity.

Check rates at Las Alcobas Napa Valley

Explore more Napa Luxury Hotels

 

Monterey

Located about 150 miles south of Napa, Monterey County is home to more than 175 unique vineyards. The Monterey Wine Country experiences a "thermal rainbow" making the area ideal for growing grapes for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but it's diverse climate of ever-warming micro-climates helps the region support 42 wine varietals. 

Ventana Big Sur

Ventana Big Sur

From a daily Sommelier-led wine and cheese reception, to the Alila Experience Program offering a range of activities such as photography hikes and charcoal drawing classes, Ventana Big Sur is an adults-only retreat designed to provide guests with opportunities for self discovery, wellness, and finding one's place in the world. There are daily morning yoga classes and guided hikes, as well as two outdoor pools (one is clothing-optional), chef created cuisine, and a social house. The property makes an ideal base for rest and rejuvenation or exploring the vineyards of the Monterey area.

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also receive continental breakfast for two daily (maximum $30 credit per person/per day), a $100 resort credit per room/per stay, a welcome amenity, and an automatic room category upgrade at booking based on availability.

Check rates at Ventana Big Sur

Explore more Monterey Luxury Hotels


| By: Rachael Weir

Featured Journeys: Luxury Road Trip Along California's Highway 1In this edition of Featured Journeys, we're going on a luxury road trip along California's iconic Highway One. Set along the coastline, and extending over 600 miles, this picturesque route is one of the most famous driving routes in the world. We recommend starting your journey in San Francisco then heading south to Monterey, Santa Barbara, and Laguna Beach. Please note: Due to winter storms, part of Highway One is closed. It is set to reopen mid-April, but please check on the status of road closures before planning your trip. 

San Francisco
Monterey
Santa Barbara
Laguna Beach

San Francisco

The journey begins in San Francisco. Offering an international airport with gateways around the world, begin your road trip here, spending a few days exploring what the city has to offer, then continue on down the coast. Known as the "City by the Bay" this iconic locale is home of the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, Lombardi Street, and Alcatraz. Ride the cable cars, tour a Victorian mansion, take in the views at Golden Gate Park, and sample some authentic flavors in Chinatown. Editor's note: From April to September, the San Francisco Giants play in the heart of the city at AT&T Park, an ideal place to try some regional cuisine while taking in a ballgame with stellar views of the city. 

Here are a few of our top San Francisco hotels:

Fairmont San Francisco

Fairmont San Francisco Signature Golden Gate Suite

Set atop Nob Hill, the Fairmont San Francisco is a landmark hotel with an iconic setting, that sits at the only point in San Francisco where each of the city's cable car lines meet. Known for its grandeur and reputation for impeccable service, the grand property has a Penthouse Suite that spans the entire eight floor of the historic Main Building. Guest rooms blend historic charm with modern elegance, and there is the famous Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar, offering Pacific Rim Asian Cuisine and a Tiki-style setting where thunder and rain storms occur as part of the entertainment. Planning this trip with a family or group? The Fairmont offers a Double Queen with a pull-out sofa bed. 

Check rates at the Fairmont San Francisco

 

Palace Hotel

Palace Hotel San Francisco

Occupying an entire city block in downtown, the Palace Hotel was built in the Golden Age of Travel. The 1909 Beaux-Arts property greets guests with wrought iron filigree work, gold leaf embellishment, and angels over every doorway. Once inside, there are marble floors, coved ceilings, and soaring archways. Recently renovated guest rooms and suites feature historic details, mixed with modern amenities and furnishings in plum, charcoal, and dove grey. There are three famous restaurants: The Garden Court, GC Lounge, and the Pied Piper, plus an indoor sky-lit swimming pool, and 24-hour fitness center. 

Learn more about the Palace Hotel

 

Four Seasons San Francisco

Four Seasons San Francisco

Two blocks from Union Square's famed shopping district, the Four Seasons San Francisco offers a centralized SoMa location on Market Street across from Yerba Buena Gardens. Featuring modern decor with a neutral color palette, guest rooms have a residential feel with floor-to-ceiling windows providing city views, spacious marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs, and glass-enclosed showers. There's an on-site spa, children's amenities, a 75-foot indoor lap pool for adults at the adjoining Equinox Sports Club, and the MKT Restaurant.

Check rates and availability at Four Seasons San Francisco

Explore more San Francisco luxury hotels

 

Monterey

About two hours south of downtown San Francisco, Monterey is a historic fishing town. Today, the famous Cannery Row is home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, art studios, boutiques, and restaurants. Close to Big Sur, Carmel-by-the Sea, and Pebble Beach, the picturesque area offers a variety of luxury lodging, as well as golf, upscale shopping, vineyards, and opportunities to see local wildlife including whales, sea otters, seals, and sea lions. Be sure to go along the 17-mile drive for some of the best scenery and to visit our first featured luxury hotel in the Monterey area. 

Here are a few of our top Monterey hotels:

The Lodge at Pebble Beach

The Lodge at Pebble Beach

Set at the 18th green of the Pebble Beach Golf Links, The Lodge at Pebble Beach provides an oceanside setting. Guest rooms feature views of golf course and sea, along with wood burning fireplaces, patios or balconies, and marble bathrooms. In addition to the Pebble Beach Golf Links, the Spa at Pebble Beach is a recipient of the Forbes Five-Star Award, there are multiple award-winning dining options, a retail arcade with a variety of shops, and guests have access to the Beach & Tennis Club--Monterey Peninsula's private club. 

Learn more about The Lodge at Pebble Beach

 

Post Ranch Inn 

Post Ranch Inn

Set along Highway One in Big Sur, the Post Ranch Inn is a modern retreat blending rustic elegance with luxury and comfort. Perched along the coastline (ideal for seasonal whale watching), the adults-only property is designed for guests to reconnect with nature and travel partners, so guest rooms do not have TVs or alarm clocks. There is a heated outdoor pool, fitness center, and two heated whirlpools overlooking the sea, plus the award-winning Sierra Mar restaurant. Amenities include daily gourmet breakfast, morning yoga, art walks, star gazing, edible tours of the chef's garden, and culinary walks. Please note: this property is currently closed until mid-April 2017, due to weather-related road repairs. 

Check rates and availability at the Post Ranch Inn

 

Ventana Inn & Spa

Ventana Inn & Spa

Perched along the Big Sur coastline amidst 243 acres of redwoods, meadows, and ridges, the Ventana Inn & Spa features a rustic, yet refined atmosphere with a spa, two outdoor swimming pools--including one clothing-optional pool, daily yoga classes, hour-long guided property walks, and afternoon wine and cheese receptions. The Restaurant at Ventana is set within an upscale environment with an eclectic menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, and a patio overlooking 50 miles of coastline. For creatives, the property offers "Art and Seekers" programs such as photography hikes, mandala coloring for couples, and block printing. Accommodation options include guest rooms, suites, the Cottage House, and new in 2017, the Redwood Retreats providing an upscale glamping experience. 

Learn more about the Ventana Inn & Spa

Explore more Monterey luxury hotels

 

Santa Barbara

Considered the American Riviera, Santa Barbara has a Mediterranean-like climate, along with cool ocean breezes and sandy beaches. Set between the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains, the city is known for stucco buildings with red-tile roofs, palm trees, boutiques along State Street, and waterfront dining. For families, there's the Santa Barbara Zoo, art enthusiasts can see works by Matisse and early 20th century French and American artists at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, and the Santa Ynez Valley is known for pinot noir, chardonnay, and Syrah vintages. The Santa Barbara Harbor is ideal for kayaking, sailing, and boating, and Arroyo Burro Beach County Park offers waves ideal for surfing and bodysurfing. 

Here are a few of our top Santa Barbara hotels:

Bacara Resort & Spa

Bacara Resort & Spa Pools

Situated along 78 acres of oceanfront property in Santa Barbara, Bacara Resort & Spa offers 358 newly renovated guest rooms and suites. The full-service resort has an array of family-friendly amenities, including beach activities, infinity-edge pools, on-site hiking trails, and a seasonal kids' club. The Spa at Bacara is a 42,000-square-foot spa and wellness center with HydraFacial services, rooftop terrace, adults-only pool, wellness classes, redwood sauna, Jacuzzi, eucalyptus steam room, and fireside lounge areas. There's also the new Angel Oak oceanfront restaurant, lighted tennis courts, and the Sandpiper Golf Club is adjacent to the resort. 

Check rates and availability at Bacara Resort & Spa

 

Four Seasons Santa Barbara Biltmore

Four Seasons Santa Barbara Biltmore Resort

Nestled amongst 22 acres of lush gardens and foliage, Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara is steps away from beaches with private bungalows and terraces overlooking the Channel Islands and Pacific Ocean. Featuring Spanish-inspired architecture and accenting the casually sophisticated California lifestyle, the property offers the exclusive Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club (for select room categories, award-winning spa designed by Peter Marino, Jose Eber salon, three tennis courts, and two outdoor swimming pools. Guests also receive access to the members only Montecito Country Club, and there are bicycle rentals, and Kids for All Seasons programs. 

Learn more about the Four Seasons Santa Barbara Biltmore

 

Belmond El Encanto 

Belmond El Encanto

An iconic landmark since the 1920s, Belmond El Encanto is set within California Craftsman and Spanish Revival bungalows. Perched above the city amongst hills and lush gardens with panoramic views of the town and ocean, the property has a zero-edge pool, seven-acre garden, and a spa. There's a fitness center and studio with a variety of clases, plus bicycles for use, and a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter to shuttle guests around the nearby area. 

Check rates and availability at Belmond El Encanto

Explore more Santa Barbara luxury hotels

 

Laguna Beach

Our luxury road trip ends in Laguna Beach. Situated in Orange County, about half way between Los Angeles and San Diego, this coastal city is known for its seven-mile stretch of sand with surfing, art boutiques, and basking on the beach. During the annual grey whale migration (March to May), Laguna Beach provides an ideal vantage point for watching these gentle giants. While art enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy including the Laguna Art-A-Fair featuring local and national artists, open daily from June 30 to September 3, 2017, and art classes offered year-round at the Sawdust. 

Here are a few of our top Laguna Beach hotels:

Monarch Beach Resort 

Monarch Beach Resort

Perched on a hillside, the Monarch Beach Resort features a family-friendly beachside setting in Dana Point, Orange County. Following a two year, $40 million transformation, the resort exemplifies the California Coastal lifestyle with a Miraval Life in Balance Spa, five gourmet restaurants including Michael Mina's Stonehill Tavern, and a championship golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Accommodations feature ocean-inspired color palattes with a coastal feel, and there's an expansive multi-level pool complex which includes a Family Pool with splash zone, the adults-only Monarch Pool, and a second level dedicated to sunning and lounging with cabanas and firepits. There's also a private beach club with water-related activities, paddle boarding, trail hikes, and surf lessons led by the resort's Surf Host. 

Learn more about the Monarch Beach Resort

 

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

Set halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego along the coast of Dana Point, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel provides a luxurious surfside retreat. Perched atop a 150-foot bluff above Salt Creek Beach, the property offers cascading views of the Pacific Ocean. There's California Coastal cuisine, a spa focused on the essential elements from the ocean, and a variety of adventures including surfing experiences, basketball, Ping Pong, two tennis courts, and two swimming pools. There's also an Eco-Adventure Center with expert naturalist-led programs for adults, families, and children, along with the Ritz Kids programs with activities for young travelers.

Check rates and availability at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

 

Montage Resort and Spa

Montage Laguna Beach

Perched atop a coastal bluff, Montage Laguna Beach is a luxury resort featuring craftsman-style architecture and an idyllic SoCal setting. In the midst of the city's preeminent artist colony, the resort offers a collection of museum-quality works of art, plus two outdoor pools, and gourmet dining at Studio, The Loft, or Mosaic Bar and Grille. Situated within 30 acres of oceanfront property, there's a 20,000-square-foot Spa Montage with panoramic Pacific views, ocean air whirlpools, fireplace lounges, redwood saunas, lap pool, movement studio, and eucalyptus steam rooms. 

Learn more about Montage Resort and Spa

Explore more Laguna Beach luxury hotels

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| By: Five Star Alliance

The heated swimming pool at Post Ranch Inn offers an expansive views that meld sea and sky. Kept at constant 104 degrees, it provides a rejuvenating place where the panoramic natural beauty of Big Sur warms body and soul.

Post Ranch Inn

Book a stay at Post Ranch Inn >>


| By: Five Star Alliance

Quail Lodge
Guests at Quail Lodge & Golf Club can try their hand at some stunt-person worthy driving. The luxury resort features the Land Rover Experience Driving School. Open year-round, it offers customized lessons and adventure for all skill levels. Guided by a qualified instructor, guests will make steep descents down a two-track trail, climb piles of logs and navigate tight hairpin turns. Lessons and programs range from one hour to multiple days. The dedicated course is composed to provide an exciting outdoor adventure of endless obstacles including ascents, descents, side-tilts, log crossings, and rock crawls.

 

Book your stay at Quail Lodge >>


| By: Five Star Alliance

Since 1919, The Lodge at Pebble Beach has been a legendary California haven for discerning clientele. From the moment you walk through the door, you are welcomed with impeccable service and comfortable elegance. The Lodge at Pebble Beach envelopes the 18th green of the Pebble Beach Golf Links, one of the most exciting closing holes in golf.

The Lodge at Pebble Beach

Book a stay at The Lodge at Pebble Beach >> 


| By: Five Star Alliance

Bernardus Lodge


Bernardus Lodge
 
has announced that it will be closed from November 30 through March 13, 2015 to undergo a multi-million dollar lodge restoration project. The renovation plans include upgrades to luxury accommodations, a stunning new lobby space, a reinvented pool experience and refreshed dining destinations. The new decor will offer contemporary design elements, state of the art technology, and spectacular new creative accents that match the beauty and charm of Carmel Valley.


| By: Five Star Alliance

Hyatt Carmel Highlands
Did you know that memorable scenes in nearly 200 movies have been filmed in Monterey County nearby Hyatt Carmel Highlands? Since 1897, the dramatic beauty of the Monterey Peninsula has attracted directors and cinematographers from around the world. Now guests at Hyatt Carmel Highlands can take a scenic tour of these famous sites located in Monterey, Pacific Grove, Pebble Beach, and Carmel. Watch scenes that were filmed at that exact location on overhead monitors onboard a luxury motorcoach on the movie tour.

Listen to behind-the-scenes stories about the making of the movies and hear tales about famous movie stars. Enjoy some of the most gorgeous scenery in the world throughout the Carmel movie tour, and celebrate Hollywood while singing along to some of your favorite show tunes.

Book a tour at Hyatt Carmel Highlands >>


| By: Five Star Alliance

Hotel Pacific
Fish fans will appreciate the latest offer from Hotel Pacific. Hotel Pacific is a boutique hotel in downtown Monterey, CA, and is a few minutes from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Hotel Pacific offers luxury all-suite accommodations with fireplaces, wifi-internet, continental breakfast and afternoon refreshments, luxurious feather bedding, and unique vacation packages.

The nearby Monterey Bay Aquarium offers visitors a unique glimpse into the deepest realms of California’s Pacific Ocean and a close-up look at many different ocean species, from great white sharks to albacore tuna, sunfish, sea turtles, and otters.

Hotel Pacific's Monterey Bay Aquarium Package Includes

- Overnight accommodations for two
- Two 2-day adult admission tickets to the Monterey Bay Aquarium
- VIP express entrance to the Aquarium, no waiting in line

Rates for the Monterey Bay Aquarium Package start at $375 per night >>

All rates are based on double occupancy and extra person charges may apply. Please be advised that the rates, availability, as well as any extra person charges are subject to change depending on the hotel’s policies.


| By: Five Star Alliance

A landmark in Capitola history, Inn At Depot Hill is located in the heart of this seaside community on the California central coast. It started life as a Southern Pacific Railroad rail station. In 1990 the station was converted into a inn of 12 rooms, each decorated and named after a train destination. 

Inn at Depot Hill

View rates, details, and more images of Inn at Depot Hill >>


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