The Luxury Hotel Insider: Exclusive luxury hotel deals, features and special rates from the luxury hotel experts at Five Star Alliance. Top 5 Romantic Valentine's Day Hotels: #1 The Point, Saranac Lake
February 9, 2012
By: Christopher Roney
Valentine's Day is coming up, and, as such, it's time to think about where you'd like to spend the day with that special someone. Whether you're enjoying a cozy night in or an adventure on the town, a night in a luxury hotel can be the perfect gift to the both of you, a chance to escape to another world where no expense will be spared in giving you the night of a lifetime. What follows is just one in a series of our favorite romantic hotels, and, we think, a great place to take him or her this February the 14th.
What's The Point, you ask? While us single folks might attribute such a question to the vague sense of ennui that a romantic holiday instills, for the couples out there, you're clearly wanting to know more about the resort on Saranac Lake that just might be the most tranquil and exclusive hotel you could take your significant figure this weekend. I use 'hotel' in only the loosest of sense to describe The Point, since the 11-room lodge is what you would imagine renting a 5-star private cabin might be like. This lakefront lodge in upstate New York has all the serenity of a hushed winter morning where even the birds are afraid to break the silence, and it's personal service is unrivalled anywhere.
Nightly room rates are all-inclusive, so you can enjoy everything they have to offer. Not only that, dining is supervised by 3-star Michelin chef Albert Roux, which affords you a level of attention that even the top restaurants cannot afford to give their patrons. No children under 18 are allowed on the property and there are no phones and televisons, so you need not worry about anything getting in the way of your perfect evening. The Point offers the kind of intentional seclusion that is so rare in this connected world, and it is the perfect opportunity to lose yourself in romance.
The Point is especially attractive to active couples who would enjoy the hiking, fishing, and animal tracking that the Point will happily recommend. If a few biologists would just take a brief second to get out to The Point, they'd very quickly resolve one of the most hotly contested debates in modern science: nature vs nuture. At The Point on Saranac lake, you can nurture your relationship by going back to nature, and there's no compromise involved. For my part, The Point is where I would take my hypothetical girlfriend this Valentine's Day.
Trump Comes to DC, but Maybe Not Like He Imagined
February 8, 2012
By: Christopher Roney
The news broke at the Washington Post yesterday that ex-presidential hopeful Donald Trump has turned the long-reaching tendrils of his well-coiffed hair towards the Old Post Office in Washington, DC, by buying it up as a hotel property. While he may be moving in next door to his dream house like an overzealous ex-boyfriend, this is undeniably good news for the hotel industry and for DC as well. The Old Post Office, while home to a few government offices, is also well-known for being a just a little bit abandoned and run down. And since it's on prime real estate in the middle of the city, hearing that Trump and investors are willing to put down a cold $200 million to renovate and revitalize the building should put a spring in the step of anyone looking to stay near 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. or even just walk by on the way to work.
The hotel will likely open its doors to more than 250 rooms for guests in 2016. Importantly, the Vice-Trump, daughter Ivanka, who headed the acquisition, said that the reconstruction is committed to preserving the historic facade of the original 1890s post office. Making way for the hotel will be National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities, which probably holds some kind of metaphorical significance, but maybe they'll get swankier offices elsewhere. The hotel itself should be an interesting take on an unorthodox space. The pavilion in the interior makes for a central space that itself has a lot of aesthetic possibility but also limits the floor design. I'm intrigued to see what Mr. Trump's team will do with the place. In the meantime, there are plenty of other Washington hotels within a stone's throw of the White House. [Editor's note: Do not throw that stone.]
Photo via Old Post Office DC Pavilion
Extraordinary Guest Chef at the St. Regis Aspen Resort
February 7, 2012
By: Oksana Balytsky
The St. Regis Aspen Resort, nestled within the mountains in Aspen, Colorado is the perfect place to experience the best of every season. Visit in the winter for some of the best skiing opportunities, or visit in the summer to participate in great summer sports activities and the arts.
This luxury hotel will host Chef Duangporn Songvisavia (Bo) and Chef Dylan Jones from the renowned Herland Thai Restaurant Bo.Lan in Bangkok, Thailand. The chefs will prepare Thai infused cuisine from February 14th – 19th during Apres teas and dinner. During Apres tea, guests can choose from a menu of small plates, and for dinner, guests are treated to a unique pre-fixe menu carefully put together to ensure a well-balanced meal. The dinner menu will feature Thai salad, chili relish, a stir-fried dish, curry, and soup. Holding true to Bo.Lan’s ‘slow food’ philosophy, the foods will feature locally sourced ingredients and produce. The Apres tea menu will be served from from 3 – 6pm in the Shadow Mountain Lounge, and dinner will be served every evening 6 – 10pm in The Restaurant.
Enjoy authentic Thai cuisine without needing to leave the United States! Make your reservations at the St. Regis Aspen Resort and send your taste buds on an adventure!
By: Oksana Balytsky
Valentine's Day at the Montage Deer Valley
February 7, 2012
By: Oksana Balytsky
With Valentine’s Day exactly 1 week away, it’s time to buckle down and plan the perfect romantic celebration with your significant other. The Montage Deer Valley in Park City, Utah knows that it’s the little things that matter, and they have worked out every detail to ensure a spectacular night of romance.
Check into the Montage Deer Valley and curl up by the fire while snow gently falls outside. Enjoy the romantic piano music over a candlelit dinner and a bottle of wine. Whether you’re a new couple or have been happily married for quite some time, the incredible alpine views and winter wonderland provide a romantic evening for all.
Make reservations at Apex, the hotel’s signature restaurant for February 14th and enjoy a pre-fixe dinner with mountain views and cozy tables by firelight. The four course dinner menu is $95 per person, and wine pairing is an additional $35.
Attend the wine and chocolate pairing event in Vista Lounge led by Ray Lammers, the executive pastry chef at Montage Deer Valley. Enjoy Cacao Barry chocolate with a Lactee caramel filling, Amano Madagascar dark chocolate, and the rare Maranon Fortunado No. 4 chocolate from Peru. Savor these chocolates on their own or paired with wines that have been selected to compliment and bring out the flavor of the chocolate.
Take advantage of these romantic and exciting opportunities and make your reservations at the Montage Deer Valley today!
By: Oksana Balytsky
Hotels with Availability for Mardi Gras
February 3, 2012
By: Oksana Balytsky
Mardi Gras is on February 21st this year, which is only a few short weeks away! From an incredible parade to mounds of beads and excitement, Mardi Gras is definitely an event worth attending at least once in your life. Check out the following luxury 5 star hotels that currently have availability during Mardi Gras to ensure you don’t miss out on the fun!
This hotel is located in the heart of New Orleans, on the edge of the French Quarter near the banks of Mississippi. It recently underwent a $22 million restoration, redefining 5 star luxury, and now offers 316 newly designed guestrooms and suites.
This hotel is next to Jackson square and boutique shops, and it’s a short walk from the Riverwalk and Harrah’s casino. It was remodeled in 2000 and has 98 rooms and 2 suites.
Located just 3 blocks from the French Quarter, across from Harrah’s casino, the Arts district, and Riverwalk, this luxury hotel has 285 rooms and 12 suites.
This hotel is located in the heart of the French Quarter surrounded by the bustling Bourbon Street, boutique shops, and live entertainment. It was remodeled in 2000 and has 98 rooms and 2 suites.
This luxury hotel is located on Canal Street and it has 487 rooms and 7 suites.
Located on Canal Street a short walk from the French Quarter, this hotel allows guest to experience the most uniquely European city in the United States.
This hotel is located in the central business district one block from the French Quarter. It was remodeled in 2009 and it offers 504 rooms and 135 suites.
By: Oksana Balytsky
Top 5 Romantic Valentine's Day Hotels: #2 Fairmont Chicago
February 3, 2012
By: Christopher Roney
Valentine's Day is coming up, and, as such, it's time to think about where you'd like to spend the day with that special someone. Whether you're enjoying a cozy night in or an adventure on the town, a night in a luxury hotel can be the perfect gift to the both of you, a chance to escape to another world where no expense will be spared in giving you the night of a lifetime. What follows is just one in a series of our favorite romantic hotels, and, we think, a great place to take him or her this February the 14th.
The Fairmont has to get a special nod on this list for the sheer effor they're putting into a singular Valentine's Day experience. This may just be the most opulent display of romance and affection a person could receive on a day already known for total commitments to love and cutely involved marriage proposals.
They say money can't buy love, but in today's consumer market, it certainly can buy the trappings of it. Plop down $100,000 for a two-night experience, and you'll be welcomed into cupid's diamond-studded embrace with open arms. Not only will you be put up in the hotel's presidential suite, it will be ornamented with six doxen roses, included a trail of petals from the foyer to the bed. Live out the dreams of the marketing departments of diamond companies everywhere as you gift her an 18-karat white diamond and sapphire necklace, showing her that every kiss begins with not one but 18 K's. And from there, you can enjoy a $10,000 shopping credit which you can spend on a VIP trip to Sak's Fifth Avenue.
Of course, the night could not be complete without a Chef's Table at Aria, the asian and traditional American mainstay of the luxury dining scene in Chicago. Top that off with a personal butler, breakfast for two in bed, 90-minute in-room massage and "Fairy Tale Moments," which refers, of course, to a candlelit lavender bath with Cristal champagne and strawberries. If you believing that showing your love to someone means going the extra mile, taking off your shoes, then running a barefoot marathon, then the Fairmont Chicago might be just what you're looking for this Valentine's Day.
Romantic Packages and Escapes at the Langham Huntington Hotel and Spa Pasadena
February 3, 2012
By: Oksana Balytsky
The Langham Huntington Hotel and Spa Pasadena is situated at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains in beautiful Pasadena, California. Its elegance and award-winning service have made this hotel a southern California landmark. It is the only AAA Five Diamond hotel in the area and has a spa recognized as one of North America’s Top 10. Its luxurious accommodations, incredible spa, and outdoor heated pool all make this hotel a phenomenal choice for a Valentine’s Day getaway. And with the following incredible packages available in February, it’s hard to say no to the Langham Huntington Hotel and Spa Pasadena.
Linger Longer for Less
Stay longer and get rewarded for it! Stay 2 nights and get 10% of the best available rate, stay 3 nights and get 15% off the best available rate and continental breakfast for 2, stay 4 nights and receive 15% off the best available rate, continental breakfast for 2, and in-room internet, stay 5 or more nights and receive 15% off the best available rate, continental breakfast for 2, in-room internet, and an upgrade to the next room category (based upon availability at check-in).
Valid for stays through February 29th, 2012, subject to availability, and not valid for groups.
Great Getaway Package
This package includes overnight accommodations, continental breakfast for 2 in the Terrace, and valet parking.
Subject to availability and not valid for groups.
Experience the Arts Package
Enjoy the arts and culture in luxury while staying at the Langham. This package includes overnight accommodations, 2 VIP Museum passes valid at more than 18 Institutions in the Los Angeles Area ($250 value), valet parking, and complimentary shuttle services to museums in Pasadena.
Valid until March 28th, 2012, subject to availability, and not valid for groups.
Grand Romance Package
Enjoy Valentine’s Day in style with this package which includes overnight accommodations, rose petal turndown, breakfast in bed, and valet parking.
Valid in February 2012, subject to availability, and not valid for groups.
By: Oksana Balytsky
A Few Valentine’s Day Ideas in New York City
February 1, 2012
By: Oksana Balytsky
It’s officially February, which means Valentine’s Day is creeping up fast! For the gentlemen still at a loss for where to take their loved ones, we have a few recommendations up our sleeve. Whisk her away to the city that never sleeps for a romantic getaway and an experience neither of you will forget!
Make a reservation at any of our 95 luxury hotels in New York City for an intimate and luxurious retreat. A few worth checking out are the Loews Regency Hotel and the Crosby Street Hotel. Keep things classy and sophisticated at the Loews Regency Hotel, which will be serving special Bubbly Passions made from passion fruit puree, schnapps, and Astoria Prosecco. After a few themed drinks at the Loews Regency Hotel, head on over to the Crosby Street Hotel for a phenomenal Valentine’s Day dinner. They will be serving a price fixe menu starting at $75 per person and will includes 3 courses as well as a glass of rose Champagne. Each table will have a special bottle with a message inside, and one lucky diner will find an invitation to spend Sunday night in one of the Crosby Street Hotel’s rooms, tickets to the hotel’s weekly Film Club, and dinner for two.
After dinner, drinks, and hotel hopping, check into your luxury hotel for an intimate ending to your wonderful evening. A few of our absolute favorite New York City hotels are the Carlyle, the Surrey, and the James!
Be sure to explore all of the hotel options available to choose the perfect one for you and your loved one!
By: Oksana Balytsky
$50 Spa Credit at the Carlyle and Free Champagne at the Ritz? Yes, Please.
January 31, 2012
By: Christopher Roney
When Confucius declared the five pillars of filial piety, he hardly could have anticipated the sixth relationship that matters above all else, the one of blogger to his readers. In honor of that lasting bond, I have come bearing gifts to solidify our friendship. I hope you like them; I was going to make you a papier mache model of the Burj Al Arab, but my crafting abilities are on par with a baby elephant's, and I don't even have a prehensile trunk.
So instead, I'm happy to declare that Five Star Alliance have partnered with the Ritz Paris and the Carlyle in New York to bring you special amenities with reservations made under the Five Star Alliance rate. For a limited time, the Ritz Paris is offering free champagne with FSA reservations. The saccharine taste of bubbly effervescence is the perfect way to sweeten an already great deal for a hotel in the heart of the city of bread, wine, love, and cheese. And it's the perfect time to catch this Parisian gem before it goes off the radar for an extensive renovation.
If New York is a little bit more your style, the Carlyle is looking to show off its exquisite Rosewood Spa by offering FSA guests a $50 spa credit. Simply select the "Welcome Offer" rate code, and you'll be well on your way to enjoy a sumptuous soak in one of New York's finest spas. And don't forget that if you're friend of Five Star Alliance on Facebook by the beginning of March, you could win two nights at the Carlyle for free.
Newly Redesigned Four Seasons Miami
January 30, 2012
By: Oksana Balytsky
The Four Seasons Miami underwent a bit of a makeover this past fall, and its updated room designs, new restaurant, and pool terrace have proven to be quite a hit with the Miami visitors. The new rooms feature one of two new color schemes; red and slate, and gray and blue, and aside from vibrant colors, the hotel boasts new furnishings and fabrics, giving this hotel a phenomenal upgrade.
The new restaurant, Edge Steak & Bar replaces a more traditional steakhouse and embraces the concept of lighter, healthier fare. Menu options include ‘steak lite,’ a variety of seafood, sandwiches, and salads. This restaurant also offers a unique dessert concept, ‘Dessert Tapas,’ which are smaller portions for $4 that satisfy your craving and keep you from regret. Edge Steak & Bar will also be serving an incredible Sunday brunch from 11:30am – 3:00pm, and it will feature various serving stations as well as hand-spun cotton candy!
Still need a little convincing? Consider this: The Four Seasons Miami has 3 beautiful outdoor pools with plush daybeds and a poolside butler, so start packing your bags and get ready for the ultimate relaxation in Miami!
By: Oksana Balytsky
