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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

Situated midway between Phoenix and Scottsdale, the Royal Palms Resort and Spa is a luxury resort at the foot of Camelback Mountain. Mixing Mediterranean style with the privacy of a secluded retreat, the property offers special perks for Five Star Alliance guests.

Originally built by Cunard Steamship executive and financier Delos Cooke in 1929 as a summer retreat, the resort welcomes guests through a driveaway lined with palm trees and a 250-year-old fountain in the porte cochere. Read more about the property below the photo.

Royal Palms Resort and SpaSet amidst 9 acres of flower gardens and exotic plants, the award-winning resort recalls the glamour and confidence of the Post World War II era. Following a major renovation, the property offers 119 custom-appointed casitas, suites, and guest rooms, along with 20,000 square feet of estate-like meeting space. Read more below the Casita King Guest Room photo. 

Casita King Guest Room at the Royal Palms Resort & Spa

The resort's winding paths lead to cozy nooks with crackling fireplaces and courtyards with fountains. For relaxation, the Alvadora Spa provides a range of signature treatments and services focused around Mediterranean essences, as well as calming Vichy showers, cascading outdoor eight-foot waterfall showers, fireplaces, and eight treatment rooms. Continue reading below the Alvadora Spa photo.

Alvadora Spa at the Royal Palms Resort and Spa

Five Star Alliance Perk: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate receive full breakfast for two daily (maximum $20 per person/per day) and a $100 spa services credit per room/per stay.

Check availability at Royal Palms Resort and Spa


| By: Five Star Alliance

The Boulders ResortThe Boulders Resort is taking advantage of the Prickly Pear harvest. The native cacti are expected to produce more than 50 pounds of ripe fruit. To celebrate, the Arizona resort's restaurants and bars will be incorporating freshly-harvested prickly pear fruit (and its tart juice) in everything from breakfast syrups and glazing to the signature Prickly Pear Smoothies.

Here's a few of the mouth-watering dishes that will be available during October:

-Prickly Pear Steak Sandwich with a Prickly Pear Onion Marmalade
-Prickly Pear Muffins 
-Prickly Pear smoothies 
-Prickly Pear onion Jam 
-Prickly Pear Lime dressing 
-Prickly Pear Salsa 
-Mesquite waffle with carmelized anjou and Prickly Pear infused syrup
-Pan Seared California Halibut with a Prickly Pear Butter Sauce

View rates, details, and more images of The Boulders Resort >


| By: Five Star Alliance

The Boulders a Waldorf Astoria Resort


Summer is almost here! In honor of the season, The Boulders, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, has introduced several new programs for guests to enjoy. A luxury hideway tucked in the desert, The Boulders features 160 guest casitas and 61 one-, two- and three-bedroom villas, seven restaurants and a lounge, two championship Jay Morrish-designed golf courses, eight tennis courts, and a Waldorf Astoria Spa. 

Programs include:

-Night Bicycling. Go for a night bike! You'll use night equipment to see the desert as you've never seen it before, complete with thousands of stars and the fascinating nocturnal animals of the Sonoran desert. 

-Night Walking Excursion. Led by the resort's expert guide, guests use hiking headlamps and night vision monoculars to see the unique surroundings while learning about the geology, history of the area, and the desert flora and fauna. The tour is available for all ages and skill levels and is limited to 10 guests. Guests can cruise along on cycles or ride the resort's roller-coaster golf cart paths.The Boulders Biking at Night

-Moonlight/Sunset Yoga. For those who want some additional stretch in their evening. yoga is held at Promise Rock, which is 2,288 feet above ground level. Watch the sunset from your Warrior II pose, or take in the panoramic views of the valley below as you embrace your Downward Dog.

Moonlight Massages. Relax and unwind both your body and your mind. Private nighttime massages are offered at the guest casitas (residences). They can even be held on the casita's patios for added privacy. 

-Moonlight Shaman Meditation. Get calm and grounded. The private meditation sessions are lead by the spa's resident Shaman in the authentic Tipi. 

-Celestial Spa DinnersThe Boulders ResortThese sign-specific  wine dinners, planned by both the chef and astrologer, include a five-course dinner accompanied by fine organic wines from a featured winemaker. They are held, al fresco, at the spa's 5,600 sq. ft. Organic Garden.  The resort's resident astrologer Tom McMullan explains the symbolic language of Astrology as guests enjoy a gourmet dinner under the cool desert night sky.

-Stargazing. The spa can arrange for guests to observe the Arizona sky with the resident professional astronomer. View the planets, stars, constellations, and the lunar surface - canyons to craters - through a high-powered telescope. Guests guests can also rent a special constellation-friendly iPad for use on their private patio.

-Astrological Soul Reading. Guests can get insight into the story of their soul's journey through a personal astrological chart which is calculated by the guest’s birth date, birth time, and birth place. The Astrological Soul Reading is performed by the spa's resident Astrological Consultant. The service helps to center and empower guests with the knowledge of what each individual brought into this lifetime to work on and where they are moving forward on each specific path. 

View rates, details, and more images of The Boulders Resort >>
 


| By: Five Star Alliance

The Arizona Biltmore Resort in PhoenixBuilt as one of Phoenix's first resorts in 1929, the Arizona Biltmore was constructed in grand form by brothers Albert, Charles and Warren McArthur. Frank Lloyd Wright served as the consulting architect, and the Arizona Biltmore remains one of the only existing hotels in the world to benefit from his influence. The Arizona Biltmore has been an Arizona landmark since its opening on Feb. 23, 1929 when it was crowned "The Jewel of the Desert."

In 1930, when the estimated $1 million construction cost doubled, Chicago chewing gum magnate William Wrigley, Jr., one of the original investors in the project, became the sole owner. Over the next 44 years, the Wrigley family owned and operated the Arizona Biltmore and it became world renowned as the preferred luxury oasis for celebrities, heads of state, captains of industry and other famous travelers.

Arizona Biltmore Hotel Pool DiverDid you know that the famed song composer Irving Berlin penned many tunes, including "White Christmas" while sitting poolside at the Arizona Biltmore? Or that the pool was first built by the Wrigleys in 1930 and was host to diving competitions as well as fashion shows? Marilyn Monroe called this her favorite pool. A Who's Who of rockers have vacationed at the Arizona Biltmore – Elton John, Eric Clapton, U2, Steely Dan, Neil Diamond and Bruce Springsteen, to name a few. 

Today, the luxury hotel features 740 hotel guest accommodations; 78 one-and two-bedroom villas; eight swimming pools; seven tennis courts; a full-service resort spa, salon and fitness center; and five dining options across 39 acres. The adjacent Arizona Biltmore Country Club boasts two of the best 18-hole PGA golf courses in Phoenix: The Links and The Adobe.

The Arizona Biltmore offers 1.5 hour long History Tours three times per week - free to registered guests or $10 for the general public.

More archival photos available here: Arizona Biltmore Archive Photos

Learn more about the hotel and check rates and availability here: Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona


| By: Oksana Balytsky

The Arizona Biltmore values its guests’ birthdays, and it’s going above and beyond singing to you in the hotel restaurant to make you feel special on your special day! Enjoy a free night during your birthday month (minimum 2 night stay required) as well as a cupcake and balloons delivered straight to your room! Be sure to grab the gals or that special someone for your birthday this year, and make your reservation at the Arizona Biltmore!

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| By: Oksana Balytsky

We at Five Star Alliance know that you, our loyal travelers, are in search of luxurious accommodations at the best prices available, so we go above and beyond to find the best promotional packages and specials to ensure you get the most from your hotel experience. We’re thrilled to introduce our newest blog series where we’ll be featuring luxury hotels that offer you more than just room-only rates. Whether you’re traveling on business or pleasure, we certainly have something for you, so be sure to check in with us often to get the inside scoop on the best deals and packages available at luxury hotels all over the world!

The Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona is known throughout the world as the ‘Jewel of the Desert,’ and it has a few Five Star Alliance rates too good to pass up! Check out what’s included and make your reservation at the Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa here!

The Five Star Alliance rate is available for a variety of room types ranging from Classic King rooms to Villa 2 Bedroom Suites. The rate includes:

- Continental Breakfast For 2 Daily

- $100.00 Food & Beverage Credit to Frank & Albert's

- Upgrade If Available At Check-in

- Early Check-in If Available

- 4pm Late Check-out


| By: Christopher Roney

I don't think anywhere in the dictionary of latin roots will you find the "-lomar" suffix as meaning awesome. But if two points make a line, then the Mallomars and the Hotel Palomar are definitely on to something here. With that in mind, every time I hear something about the new Hotel Palomar Phoenix, I can't help but imagine that one marshmallow that inevitably falls off the end of your stick straight into the flames sloughing off its charred exterior and rising again as a pure white, gooey mass, its new skin still tender with sugary goodness. Of course, my overactive imagination could turn even a normal day at the office into the epic of Gilgamesh, so it's probably best if you don't read into it too much.

In any case, the Hotel Palomar is one of the newest editions to our collection, and it builds on the prior iterations of the Palomar, found in DC, Chicago, San Francisco, and many southern cities. In the heart of downtown Phoenix, the Palomar is ideally located to reach all of the hot spots. The city's best shopping, dining, and entertainment are just a few blocks away. The hotel itself is designed to look and feel cosmopolitan. The rooms feature contemporary design that emphasizes the space while still managing to be a little quirky. You're more likely to end up with an abstract painting of a blue cow over your bed than generic landscape #34. And that's a good thing. It's a hard thing to walk the line between eccentricity and taste, and the Palomar manages to do it. The Hotel Palomar Phoenix is definitely a great addition to the Phoenician menagerie.


| By: Oksana Balytsky

We at Five Star Alliance know that you, our loyal travelers, are in search of luxurious accommodations at the best prices available, so we go above and beyond to find the best promotional packages and specials to ensure you get the most from your hotel experience. We’re thrilled to introduce our newest blog series where we’ll be featuring luxury hotels that offer you more than just room-only rates. Whether you’re traveling on business or pleasure, we certainly have something for you, so be sure to check in with us often to get the inside scoop on the best deals and packages available at luxury hotels all over the world!

The Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona is known throughout the world as the ‘Jewel of the Desert,’ and it provides the perfect oasis of beautiful gardens, sparkling swimming pools, and Frank Lloyd Wright influenced architecture. It is considered one of the most spectacular resorts in the world and features 738 guestrooms including 78 one and two bedroom villas, 8 swimming pools, 7 tennis courts, an 18-hole putting course, and a full service European spa, salon, and fitness center. Check out the following packages perfect for golf lovers, foodies, and folks looking for a stress-free vacation.

Golf Package

This package is available for a variety of room types including Classic Rooms with 1 king or 2 queen beds, Resort Rooms with 1 king or 2 queen beds, 2 Bedroom Villas, Premiere Rooms with 1 king or 2 queen beds, 1 Bedroom Villas, Executive Rooms with 1 King or 2 Queen beds, and Mobility Accessible rooms with 1 king or 2 queen beds. This package includes $50 daily food and beverage resort credit and 1 round of golf per person.

Daily F & B Credit Package

This package is available for Classic Rooms with 1 king or 2 queen beds, 1 Bedroom Villas, Resort Rooms with 1 king or 2 queen beds, Premier Rooms with 1 king or 2 queen beds, 2 Bedroom Villas, and Mobility Accessible rooms with 1 king or 2 queen beds. This package includes $50 daily food and beverage resort credit and one room category upgrade if available.

All Inclusive Package

This package is available for a variety of room types and includes classic accommodations, breakfast for 2, lunch for 2, dinner for 2, 30% off spa a la carte services, and free self-parking. Offer is subject to availability. Room rate does not include tax, gratuities, or incidental charges. All offer inclusive meals are valid for up to two adults on each day of stay and include tax & gratuity with a combined daily value for two adults up to US$32 per breakfast; up to US$62 per lunch; and up to US$99 for dinners. All meals valid at hotel restaurants only and excludes in-room dining. Meal plan and spa discounts are non-transferable and can not be redeemed for cash or used for future stays. Discount of 30% on spa services is valid only for a la carte services for the duration of guest stay. Spa discount can not be used for salon services, spa/salon packages and cannot be combined with any other special offers or discounts. Advance reservations are required. This offer may not be combinable with any other offers, promotions and/or coupons. Offer is not valid for group rates or select plan codes.

Be sure to take advantage of these phenomenal packages and deals for your next visit to Phoenix, Arizona!


| By: Oksana Balytsky

The Royal Palms Hotel and Spa is a beautiful resort located at the base of Camelback Mountain, and it currently has a few amazing packages and deals going on too good to pass up! With 117 beautiful guestrooms and casitas, this hotel is the perfect romantic hideaway with palm trees, lush gardens, and the perfect location just minutes from the shopping, galleries, and golf attractions in Phoenix. Check out the incredible rates and packages they’re offering for an exciting escape from the norm.

Valencia Casita

These room types are located in the resort’s Valencia gardens, and they feature views of the Camelback Mountain and/or the orange groves. These rooms have a patio, four poster king bed, and many have a fireplace.

Designer Casita

These room types have an intimate courtyard setting, grand master bedroom, walk-in shower, and a soaking tub. Each is individually designed with custom furnishings and many have a fireplace.

Montavista Terrace

These room types overlook the courtyard and some offer breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain from the patio or balcony. The master bedroom offers a large deep soaking tub and an elegant walk-in shower.

Royal Romance Package

This is the perfect package for a couple searching for a little romance regardless of the occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or simply a weekend escape, treat yourselves to an elegant and beautiful weekend away. This package includes 1 night of luxurious accommodations, dinner for two at T. Cook’s restaurant ($100 credit, tax and gratuity not included), rose petal turndown set up in your guestroom, a special Tuscan welcome amenity, and resort fee.

Royal Experience Package

This package includes 2 nights of luxurious accommodations, dinner for two in T. Cook’s restaurant ($100 credit, tax and gratuity not included), 2 Alvadora Spa treatments, and resort fee.


| By: Guest Writer

The Boulders Resort and Golden Door SpaNestled in the Sonoran Desert just outside Scottsdale, Arizona, the Boulders Resort and Golden Door Spa is surrounded by spectacular scenery: the painted desert sand, boulder formations, towering green cacti and blue sky. This unique place sets the stage for a full-service resort that has two golf courses, an award-winning spa, tennis, and more. And the adobe-inspired accommodations were recently renovated to feature wood burning fireplaces, 42-inch flat screen HD TV’s, separate tub and natural stone shower, and a private patio or balcony. The Boulders Resort is inviting you to escape on a luxury getaway, and get a total resort experience without shelling out for each activity. When you book the limited-time "One For All" package, starting from $499 per night, you'll enjoy a slew of add-ons: a round of golf per adult for each night, one 50-minute Golden Door Massage per room per night. Also included: nightly accommodations for up to two adults in a Casita, Pueblo Villa or Hacienda Resort (Resort Fee and Room Rate Tax included); valet parking; high-speed Internet access and daily newspaper; a $25 per adult Food and Beverage Credit for every paid night.


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