Like Drinks and Books? The Rittenhouse Has a Spot for You

One of the great pleasures of life is curling up with a good book and even better drink. Our sister publication, Luxury Travel Advisor, has a full report on Philadelphia's newest literary spot, the Rittenhouse Hotel's library bar. 

The Library Bar, named for its intimate design and carefully curated collection of books and fine art, is just off the lobby and newly built as part of $10 million revitalization at the hotel. The 20-seat bar is open nightly for small bites and cocktail service. The drink menu features choice spirits and seasonal house-made mixers that blend rare ingredients with innovative technique for a refined approach to the classics.With mixologist Pablo “Papi” Hurtado at the helm, the contemporary cocktails offer a sense of intrigue of which highlights include the Perfect Square, a different take on the ‘Manhattan’ where the secret is a house-made Old Fashioned Bitters; and The RH, the Library Bar signature cocktail that revisits the look of the Whiskey Sour with a special preparation of “manna,” Papi’s special addition that establishes a distinctive consistency and light sweetness; dressed up with house-made dried figs. The Library Bar also offers guests an assortment of locally crafted beer, regional wines and fine spirits, including single malt and blended whiskies, rum, tequila, madeira, port, sherry, brandy, grappa and cognac, as well as vodka and gin. A selection of coffee and infused tea is also available for guests.

Learn more about the Library Bar

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Did You Know? King George Palace

 
The King George Palace, which dates back to 1930, is named for Greece's King George II, who ruled (intermittently) from 1922-1947. The luxury hotel with views of the Acropolis was originally built as an annex to the former palace (now Greece's parliament building). It was popular with the likes of Aristotle Onassis, Maria Callas, Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier, Maria Callas,  and Frank Sinatra. In Greece between 1924 and 1935 there were 23 changes of government, a dictatorship and 13 coups. During one of his absences from rule (and Greece itself), King George made Brown's Hotel (now Rocco Forte's Brown's Hotel) in London his home away from home. 

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Healthy Treats Rule at Trump

The Apprentice is not currently airing, so The Donald and his Trump Collection of luxury properties has had time to think about how to feed its guests in a healthy manner.

Our sister publication Luxury Travel Advisor,  says this about the Trump Wellness initiative:

Trump Hotel Collection is rolling out a trio of programs as part of its Trump Wellness initiative, starting June 17. The first program, Nourish, will enhance each hotel’s in-room dining menu with a range of options, providing guests with vegan, gluten-free and organic selections with complete nutritional values. A Healthy Kids Menu by Trump will also provide breakfast, lunch and dinner for the junior set. Minibars will be revamped with healthier snacks rather than the standard minibar fare. At least one-third of all choices at each hotel will be in a health food category.

You'll want to read more about the other two healthy eating programs the hotel collection will be rolling out later this year.

Bon Appetit!

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The Penthouse Suite at The Surrey New York

Nestled in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, The Surrey New York is both a familiar destination and an unexpected delight. Experience the very best of New York in easy walking distance from the hotel's location on East 76th Street. Madison Avenue, Central Park, and the Met are all conveniently located nearby.

Built in 1926 as a residence hotel, the original Surrey was home to many of New York’s most eccentric celebrities over the years. 

For those who'd like the celebrity treatment, The Surrey New York offers a stunning Penthouse Suite. 

The 1,200 square foot Penthouse offers extended luxury with private access to the rooftop garden. Located on the 17th Floor, the modern, loft-like suite is ideal for entertaining, featuring stunning views of Central Park and the Upper East Side. The Suite includes a living room and dining room, fireplace, full kitchen, 1,100 square foot private outdoor terrace, oversize bedroom with private sitting area, spacious master bath with soaking tub and half bath for guests.

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Did You Know? Grand Regina Alpin Wellfit Hotel

Grand Regina Alpin Wellfit Hotel has a clear view of the famous Eiger North Face and the whole world of the Alps.

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Lion's Play at The Westcliff Hotel

If you long to play with a lion club but hate being mauled, The Westcliff Hotel has just the adventure for you.  The South African hotel, in conjunction with Suncross Tours, offers guests the opportunity to walk with lions and play with lion clubs. The tour can be combined with a morning of horseback riding in De Sweeded Spruit Valley nature preserve. 

On the horseback riding safari, guests are likely to spot giraffes, zebras, blue wildebeests, elands, waterbucks, warthogs,  and other exotic animals.  

Then there's a home-cooked lunch, before a brief talk about lions. Then guest take the lions on a nature walk (after learning how to behave around them), and after the walk is finished, guests will have to opportunity to feed and play with the adorable lion cubs.

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Image of the Day: Hilton Pattaya

Hilton Pattaya is part of South East Asia's largest and exclusive beachfront, lifestyle, shopping and entertainment center CentralFestival at Pattaya Beach, a 240,000 square meter development with over 300 shops and restaurants.

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Image of the Day: Hotel 10 Montreal

The Presidential Room at Hotel 10 Montreal boasts an amazing view of the city. 

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Dining at Carlton Hotel Baglioni

Carlton Hotel Baglioni, the luxurious five star hotel located in the heart of Milan,  is well-known for its refined and elegant atmosphere that has attracted luxury travelers. Everything about this hotel property screams luxury from its  exterior, mix of nearby historical and modern landmarks, to its interior decor to renowned Milanese restaurant: Il Baretto al Baglioni. Il Baretto al Baglioni is one of the most famous restaurants in Milan, due to its historical ties holding the reputation of being a Milan dining institution, and delicious epicurean menu of salads, cutlets, and specialty risottos. With international politicians, journalists, fashion icons and other VIP celebrity types being frequent diners in this restaurant, it's a reservation worthy place to stop by when visiting Milan to dine with the Milan elite.

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Did You Know? Ballyfin

Ballyfin, which was built in the 1820s and restored and reopened in 2011, is considered by many to be the grandest hotel in Ireland. But it's also home to one of the grandest collections of art on the Emerald Isle. 

The house itself was built in the 1820s for another Sir Charles Coote to designs by the great Irish architects Sir Richard and William Morrison.

Ballyfin houses an outstanding collection of paintings which traces the development of Irish art from the mid-seventeenth century to today. Works by many of the leading figures of Irish Art, as well as paintings and drawings of Irish subject matter by continental and American artists provide for a fascinating exploration of Ireland’s art, history, topography and social life, reflecting both the splendour of the Great House and also the humble life of the cottage.

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