The Luxury Hotel Insider: Exclusive luxury hotel deals, features and special rates from the luxury hotel experts at Five Star Alliance. Luxury Travel Advisor Tours The Brand New Palace Hotel Tokyo
June 15, 2012
By: Five Star Alliance
Five Star Alliance's sister publication, Luxury Travel Advisor recently had the pleasure of touring the brand new Palace Hotel Tokyo. Travel Guru Joe Pike (you can read more from Joe here: http://www.thejoepikeblog.com/) offers the following details about his recent stay:
Demolishing an iconic hotel isn't always a smart decision for a tourism-entrenched city to make, but when you replace it with a new, luxurious, $1.2 billion, modern chic hotel bearing the same name, it quickly turns into one of the best business decisions a destination can make.
Luxury Travel Advisor toured Wednesday the new Palace Hotel Tokyo, which officially reopened on May 17. It replaced the previous Palace Hotel Tokyo, which opened in 1961, was located at the same site and knocked down in 2009.
Here's what you need to know to pitch one of Japan's hottest new hotels.
The Rooms
All of the rooms face one direction, meaning every VIP, no matter what category they are staying in, gets view of the city.
Luxury Travel Advisor stayed in room no. 2207, a Club Deluxe Room W/ Balcony. Note: not all of these rooms have balconies, so be sure to request a balcony. Without a balcony, the room simply lacks one of our favorite features. There is nothing like seeing the city lit up at night, while enjoying a beverage on the terrace.
The best room here is the Palace Suite, which is the hotel's version of a Presidential Suite. The room is roughly 2,200 square feet. It comes with one bedroom with double beds, but can also connect. There are a lot of powerful colors in this room, including a lot of black and gold throughout the bedroom. Note: This room is a traditional Japanese style room and it's typical for Japanese couples to sleep in separate beds. There is also a very large balcony, 60-inch televisions in both the bedroom and the living and a separate kitchen and dining area. Tip: The dining area can be used for private dinners, including wine and sake pairings.
Restaurants and Bars
All of the restaurants are open to locals, which is why it is very important for advisors to book reservations for VIPs at least two weeks in advance since there is a huge local contingent of businessmen who frequent the hotel's restaurants.
The Grand Kitchen is located on the first level and where breakfast, lunch and dinner are served. Nice Touch: There is a small garden area outside that seats roughly 25 guests while another outdoor terrace area can seat up to 40 guests. Tip: Both outdoor areas can be rented out for small groups. The Grand Kitchen serves a number of cuisines from pasta to pizza to paelle. We ordered the "Hirata Farm" Pork Loin with mash potatoes, mushrooms and sage.
The Palace Lounge is a great place to have a cocktail. It has a very living room type feel and feels very homey. The lounge also has a piano with live performances nighty. Afternoon tea is served here from 2 - 4p.m. with more than 45 different teas offered.
The Royal Bar, located on the first floor is a very sophisticated bar with an impressive piece of abstract art occupying an entire wall. Fun Fact: The piece of an abstract dragon is meant to be an ode to the year the hotel reopened.
Wadakura is the hotel's signature restaurant, serving such Japanese favorites as sushi and tempora. It seats up to 118 people but is so scattered that it doesn't feel so large. In fact, there is a separate Tempora bar, called Tatsumi, located within Wadakura. Nice Touch: The restaurant offers nine private rooms, serving anywhere from four to 10 people. Note: We were told these are usually the first rooms to be reserved so be sure to book this at least two weeks in advance as well. Also, located within Wasakura is a separately managed sushi bar as well as Go, an area dedicated to teppanyaki.
The Crown restaurant is the hotel's French dining option. This restaurant has a strong art deco feel with floor-to-ceiling windows, offering an incredible view of the city.
Prive is another impressive lounge. It's very similar to the Palace Lounge except its a bit sexier, a bit more modern chic. Like the Palace Lounge, it also offers tea, but with a more French inspiration. The ambience of this lounge is designed to give VIPs a forest-like feel. Its basically a really chill, relaxed environment. Nice Touch: There is also a small outdoor lounge area with black leather seats and couches.
Amber Palace is the hotel's Chinese restaurant. There are a lot of amber hues throughout the restaurants, hence the name.
The Spa
The hotel is home to the Evian Spa, which takes the name of the famous brand of bottled of water. In fact, Evian water is handed to VIPs along with a fresh towel as they workout in the fitness center, which is open 24 hours a day and offers city views from all of its treadmills. The spa is made up of just five treatment rooms and one spa suite. VIPs who pay for a treatment can use all of the spa's facilities. There is a modest fee to use the pool, however, if VIPs don't have a spa treatment. The fitness center is free for everyone. Note: Club Members, those staying on floors 18-23 and also in some select rooms on the 16th and 17th floors, have free access to the pool regardless of whether they have a spa treatment or not.
Weddings
The hotel is home to a Western-style chapel, which can have up to 12 weddings a day. There is also a Japanese shrine for more traditional weddings, but we were told roughly 80-90 percent of the guests use the Western-style chapel.
Who to Book For
Roughy 60 percent of the VIPs here are business travelers while the remaining 40 percent are leisure travelers. There are roughly 15-20 percent Americans here. We would suggest the hotel for business travelers or couples and families looking for a hotel just 20 minutes away from the famous Ginza shopping district.
A Tall Order: Dine with a Giraffe in Nairobi
June 6, 2012
By: Christopher Roney
I've been to some crazy dinner parties, but I don't think I've ever had anything quite so incredible as a giraffe in attendance before. At Giraffe Manor in Nairobi boasts its very own herd of Rothschild giraffes, and they're liable to stop by your dinner party just to say hello. You might be munching on a breakfast scone when the world's tallest land mammal decides to pop its head to join your tea party. Ever the gentleman, it is much too polite to ever ask that you pour it a glass. Giraffes aren't the only animal to call the Manor its home. You can spot over 180 different species of bird and may even befriend the appropriately hilariously named dik dik.
With all the attention focused on the hotel's resident animals, don't worry that those of us with two legs and exorbitant texting plans have been forgotten. The hotel's six guest rooms are styled after an original 1930s manor house, and meals are served either indoors in striking wood-panelled dining room or outdoors on the patio. Be sure to check out both the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and the Karen Blixen Museum while you're there. The latter is the former home, from 1917 to 1931, of the author of Out of Africa. Nairobi's Giraffe Manor may be a little bit off the beaten path, but nowhere else can you stay as close to some of the most incredible animals found in the Serengeti.
Photo via Tamimi
Deals and Steals at La Samanna in St. Martin, French West Indies
June 6, 2012
By: Oksana Balytsky
We at Five Star Alliance know that our 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. 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!
Today’s feature is La Samanna in St. Martin, French West Indies. This stunning boutique resort is located along the exclusive Baie Longue in the Caribbean. La Samanna is consistently ranked among the region’s top 10 retreats, and it features 83 stunning oceanfront guest rooms perfect for a honeymoon, romantic getaway, or a family vacation. Facilities include the Caribbean’s most celebrated wine cellar, phenomenal dining options, an indoor/outdoor spa, and a stunning infinity pool. Still not sold? Then check out a few of the following deals which are certainly too good to pass up!
From May 1st – December 21st, this package allows guests to enjoy a luxurious suite at a discounted rate of 25% off the regular rate. This package includes luxurious accommodations in a 1 bedroom suite, daily buffet breakfast, and access to all of the facilities of La Samanna Resort including the state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis courts, business center, and unlimited use of all non-motorized water sports. Please note that a minimum of five nights stay is required, the offer is applicable to one bedroom suites only, rates are exclusive of tax, resort fee and gratuities, subject to availability, and cannot be combined with any other offers or packages.
This package is perfect for folks looking for an adventure and an opportunity to really get to know the island. This package includes a mid-size car rental for four days, one round-trip airport transfer, daily buffet breakfast, and access to all of the facilities of La Samanna Resort including the state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis courts, business center, and unlimited use of all non-motorized water sports. Please note that rates are exclusive of tax, resort fee and gratuities, subject to availability, and cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. The guest will be responsible for gas, tax, insurance and any damages (if any occur). La Samanna must make the car rental booking and provide clients credit card information for incidentals. Car rental rates for the additional days of stay will be given at prevailing rates, and there's a maximum four guests per vehicle.
Take your family on a once in a lifetime ultimately relaxing escape this summer. This package is available from May 1st – December 21st and it includes accommodations in a luxurious 2 bedroom suite which has a comfortable living room and a full kitchen. Also, enjoy daily buffet breakfast and access to all of the facilities of La Samanna Resort including the state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis courts, business center, and unlimited use of all non-motorized water sports. Please note that rates are exclusive of tax, resort fee and gratuities, subject to availability, and cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. This offer is applicable to two bedroom suites only.
By: Oksana Balytsky
Kids Rock at the Sunset Marquis
June 1, 2012
By: Oksana Balytsky
The Sunset Marquis Hotel and Villas is a private, Mediterranean-style, all-suite luxury hotel located in West Hollywood. It provides guests with luxurious accommodations and an opportunity to escape the craziness of LA and enjoy its five acres of lush gardens, ponds, waterfalls, brick paths, and tropical foliage. Accommodations range from 100 junior and 1 bedroom suites to 52 detached, private villas with private patios. Along with its bar, restaurant, spa, 2 pool areas, and private cabanas, the Sunset Marquis Hotel and Villas also goes above and beyond for its young travelers. Upon arrival, kids receive a black or pink backpack with a nametag attached. Inside it there’s a ‘Kids Rock’ pink or black t-shirt, crayons, a Sunset Marquis passport for coloring, a Hollywood themed mad lib, and a scavenger hunt on the property. Whether you’re a rock star looking for an escape or a family looking for an adventurous vacation, the Sunset Marquis Hotel and Villas certainly has something to offer you!
By: Oksana Balytsky
James Royal Palm To Open Fall 2012
June 1, 2012
By: Christopher Roney
When the James Royal Palm introduces itself at cocktail parties, I imagine it sidles up coolly, shaken martini in hand. "Palm, James Palm," it says, and then promptly films a movie set in its own hotel. The James Royal Palm could very well be the set for the most British of secret agents, though he will have to wait until the fall of this year to park his Aston Martin when the hotel opens to much fanfare. Miami beach is the perfect setting for the kind of adventure in high society that Bond inevitably finds himself in although, despite having Royal in the name, there's no casino at the James Royal Palm. You will find everything else there, from two swimming pools with a poolside bar to a full-service spa and gym. The James Royal Palm reimagines the original Royal Palm Hotel, paying tribute by preserving some of the original architecture, including the lobby compass rose and green glass front desk. Lil' James, who is releasing his debut rap album this year (not really), provides great children's amenities for the younger folks in your party. Reservations are currently available starting in the fall at the James' own website, and keep an eye for them on Five Star Alliance soon.
Photo via WSJ/Rottet Studio
Newly Renovated Garden Wing at the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore
May 31, 2012
By: Oksana Balytsky
The Shangri-La Hotel Singapore is set in the lush tropical gardens near the renowned Orchard Road business and shopping district of Singapore, and its newly renovated garden wing is perfect for leisure and business travelers looking for a peaceful retreat. Each room features a large balcony and an interior design inspired by nature. Take advantage of the 15 acres of gardens at this consistently top ranked luxury hotel while staying in luxurious accommodations located in one of three distinctive wings. A few of the superb amenities available to guests at the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore include 2 ballrooms, 23 smaller function rooms perfect for meetings, 3 fine dining restaurants on site, an exotic free-form pool, a children’s pool, and a luxurious spa offering post-flight therapy and other treatments. Whatever your travel purpose, consider staying at this idyllic luxury hotel for a truly relaxing and unforgettable experience.
By: Oksana Balytsky
Your Luxury Summer Travel Guide: Incredible Hotel Pools All Over the World
May 24, 2012
By: Oksana Balytsky
Swimming, fishing, hiking, sun bathing, and kayaking are just a few of the various activities to partake in during the incoming summer months. We’ve combine luxury hotels with exciting activities to give you the ultimate summer luxury travel guide perfect for folks looking for an adventure, a weekend away, or just an opportunity to take advantage of the beautiful weather! Check in with us often for a few ideas on where the summer should take you!
Memorial Day Weekend starts tomorrow, and with that comes the opening and beginning of pool season! Certain luxury hotels have absolutely stunning pools perfect for catching some rays and relaxation, and a few of our favorites include the Setai in Miami Beach, the Bellagio in Las Vegas, and the Marina Bay Sands Singapore. The Setai is an intimate oceanfront resort in the heart of South Beach, Florida, and it has not 1, not 2, but 3 beautiful pools each set at a different temperature to accommodate the wide range of guests’ needs. The Bellagio in Las Vegas has 5 beautiful pools with massages available along the poolside, a pool bar, and beautiful statues and flowers surrounding the area. The Marina Bay Sands Singapore infinity pool is located in the Sands SkyPark, and it offers simply stunning views of the city that’s absolutely unparalleled. Be sure to check out these incredible pool options for a phenomenal and relaxing holiday!
Need more? Check out our top luxury hotel pool album on Facebook and board on Pinterest for even more ideas on where to make a splash next!
Image of the Setai
By: Oksana Balytsky
Deals and Steals at the Hotel Plaza Athenee New York
May 17, 2012
By: Christopher Roney
We at Five Star Alliance know that our 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. 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 Hotel Plaza Athenee is one of the iconic hotels of Paris, and its sister property in the other capital of the world, New York, matches it stride for stride. This week's deals focus on the American transplant, which brings a brand of Parisian romance and style to a city with its own particular character. With these specials, now is the perfect time to experience the unique blend of Paris and New York at the Hotel Plaza Athenee.
The classic families package is a great way to guarantee that your family has enough space for everyone and doesn't have to take the elevator to stay together. The Plaza Athenee can guarantee two connecting king-bedded rooms for the price of just $1120 in the low seasons or $1220 in the high (from April 1-June 30). Similarly a two bedroom suite is available for $1720 or $2125. The cost of the interconnecting rooms is a 50% discount on the second king bed for the low season. Additionally, it includes up to four tickets to the Central Park Zoo and milk and cookies at turndown.
Book leading celebrations for a great flat discount on your rate, with Executive King rooms available for under $500 with rates varying depending on your dates of travel.
If you want to make use of the Plaza Athenee's wonderful spa, book a spa package which comes with a 50-minute signature massage at the Plaza Athenee Spa.
Simply enter your dates of travel here to see what great deals are available at the Hotel Plaza Athenee when you'll be there!
Deals and Steals at Charleston Place in South Carolina
May 17, 2012
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!
Charleston Place is a charming luxury hotel located in the heart of the historic district on King Street in the beautiful town of Charleston, South Carolina. Its Italian marble lobby and signature Georgian open arm staircase evoke the feeling of a grand 17th century residence, providing guests with stunning and luxurious accommodations and amenities. Its 435 beautiful rooms and suites, award winning dining options at the Palmetto Café and Charleston Grill, and its full service spa with rooftop indoor and outdoor pool and Jacuzzi all contribute to make this one of the finest hotels in Charleston! Be sure to check out the following packages and deals to make the most out of your trip to this beautiful southern town!
75 Credit Summer Savings Package
Looking to get the most out of your summer family vacation? Check out this package which includes luxury accommodations, a Passport to Savings book worth $75 to be used towards the Spa, restaurants, and bars, and children ages 12 and under eat for free when dining with a paying adult.
Breakfast and Valet Parking Package
Perfect for the business traveler, this package includes luxury accommodations, daily a la carte breakfast for 2 in the Palmetto Café (to the value of $40 per room), valet parking for one car, complimentary wireless internet access, and a daily newspaper.
Continental Breakfast Grill Gourmet Package
This is the ideal package for a romantic getaway, and it includes luxury accommodations, one dinner for 2 at the Charleston Grill (to the value of $120 per room, per stay), one Continental Breakfast for 2 at the Palmetto Café, sparkling wine, and a special amenity, complimentary wireless internet access, and a daily newspaper.
115 Credit Spa Experience Package
Perfect for a relaxing retreat, this package includes luxurious accommodations, $115 spa credit per room, per day for use in the Charleston Place Spa, complimentary wireless internet access, and a daily newspaper.
By: Oksana Balytsky
Deals and Steals at the Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa in Phoenix
May 14, 2012
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
