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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: Five Star Alliance

Five-star hotels are properties that offer their guests the highest levels of luxury through personalized services, a vast range of amenities, and sophisticated accommodations. Though there is no standard rating system for hotels, properties earn 5-star distinction by providing guests experiences that meet or exceed even the highest of expectations for comfort, décor, and luxury.

5 Star Hotel Criteria

5Star-HotelsThough a luxury hotel may feature many five-star hotel characteristics, a true five-star hotel should satisfy all these criteria:

5-Star Service

Five-star hotel employees should be polite, attentive, discreet, and can anticipate guests’ needs. All-in-all, consistently flawless excellence is the expectation.

  • Standalone concierge staff available at least 16 hours a day
  • A high staff-to-room ratio—ideally above 2.5
  • Multilingual staff
  • 24-hour reception, room service, valet parking, butler, doorman
  • Nightly turndown
  • Easy communication with hotel staff - even via text or app
  • Daily housekeeping that is also available upon request at any time
  • Laundry, ironing, dry cleaning, and shoe polishing
  • Guest elevators separate from staff elevators
  • Medical Team and resources on call
  • Luggage storage in which bags are out of guest view
  • Fine dining restaurant(s) and a standalone lounge and/or bar
  • Transfers and executive or house car
  • Childcare options including vetted babysitting service
  • Pre-check-in registration and preferences
  • Local products and services, especially for dining

5-Star In-Room Amenities

  • Luxurious robes and slippers
  • Electric safe
  • Laundry bags
  • Full-length mirror with lighting
  • Flat-screen TV with international programming
  • Outlets for personal electronics, especially multiple plug and socket types (USB)
  • Smart TV features with access to streaming services
  • Stocked mini bar (with cocktail and wine accessories)
  • Digital room key entry
  • Selection of daily newspapers
  • Wifi (highest speeds, multi-device)
  • Specialty night lighting
  • At least four types of spa treatments
  • Electronic travel convertors and adapters

5-Star Comfort

  • Guest rooms must be plush and inviting—especially the bed (ideally, there is a memory foam bed with high thread count sheets)
  • Pillow menu
  • Blackout shades
  • Bathrobes, slippers, luxury toiletries, and large fluffy towels
  • Night lighting in walking areas and bathrooms
  • Yoga or fitness equipment available for use in-room
  • Poolside daybeds, umbrellas, lotions, ice water, attendants, and food and beverage service

5-star hotel meaning

Some luxury hotels are even trying to out-do others to prove that they have 5-star amenities and are above and beyond the competition. These go far past the typical luxury upgrades. 

One example from Bloomberg Businessweek describes foraging in the woods for parts of your meal (Five-Star Mushroom Hunting Programs Are Newest Amenity at Top Hotels). Other's include in-room drink stations for cocktails or guest-use of boat or yacht (Gili Lankanfushi guests can access a 14-metre Riviera yacht). A hotel in Northern California Will Fill Your Room With Fresh Flowers and Houseplants — That You Can Take Home". Travel+Leisure also found this hotel in the Belize that will puts cocooning butterflies in rooms for guests to release.

During COVID-19 lock-downs, some 5-Star resorts even transformed themselves into full-service family getaways offering "work-from-home" office spaces, full time childcare (including camps and even schooling), and pet concierges. One examples is from back in 2020 when Island Destinations properties did private family camp getaways.

And as more hotels aspire to five-star quality, we expect to see the very best hotels advance the standards of luxury. Here is what does exist in many five-star hotels, and will become standard for luxury hotels soon:

  • Remote access to room lighting, climate, and "do not disturb"
  • Circadian lighting
  • Further upgraded coffee machines
  • Bluetooth-enabled door locks
  • Customizable smart beds
  • Sustainable and environmentally-friendly focus

Who awards hotels 5 stars? 

There is no universal standard for hotel ratings. 

Terms such as Deluxe/Luxury, First Class/Superior, Tourist Class/Standard, and Budget Class/Economy are more widely accepted as hotel types, not hotel standards.

In North America, AAA hotel ratings are from 1 to 5 diamonds. The Forbes (Mobil) Travel Guide only ranks 4- and 5-star hotels.

In Europe, the Hotelstars Union has standard hotel star ratings applicable to properties for more than 15 countries. Switzerland uses hotelleriesuisse which confirms a certain level of quality service, infrastructure, and equipment. The UK uses the Automobile Association's (AA) 1-to-5 star ratings.

Many other nations have laws to define hotel rating criteria.

In New Zealand, Qualmark, part of Tourism New Zealand, grades hotels from 1 to 5 stars.

In Australia, the Auto Clubs (NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAC, RAA and RACT) have awarded hotels star ratings that incorporate guest feedback. The ratings are now managed by the Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC).

In the Philippines, the Department of Tourism maintains hotel rating standards with a system that grades properties between 1 and 5 stars.

The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) grades hotels based on strict criteria and conditions in six categories.

India's classifications are handled by the Ministry of Tourism's Hotel and Restaurant Association Classification Committee (HRACC). The categories are 1 to 5 Stars and 5 Star Deluxe as well as categories for heritage: Heritage Grand, Heritage Classic, and Heritage Basic.

While it might be great for marketing, there are no 7-star or 6-star hotels

In addition to meeting the criteria above, all of the Five Star Alliance hotels must maintain a high degree of satisfaction from guests across review sites and via feedback provided directly to us. This article and the details get updated frequently based on changing standards and newly available criteria.

 

Click here to explore all of our five-star hotels >>

5-star luxury hotel meaning

written by Courtney W. May, Five Star Alliance 

* This page is fully maintained and updated when appropriate

 


| By: Rachael Weir

Destination Spotlight: Los Cabos

From bountiful sunshine to championship golf courses, Los Cabos is a destination for fun in the sun. Located on the Pacific Coast along the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos is comprised primarily of two towns, San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. Linked by a 20-mile corridor, the area offers an array of world-class resorts and championship golf courses.

Sometimes referred to as "Land's End," Los Cabos is a magical region full of contrasts. From the Sea of Cortez to desert and mountains, the region abounds with natural splendor and biodiversity.

Cabo San Lucas is known for vitality and nightlife, as well as a variety of attractions including the marina. It is the Marlin Capital, and it is also the home of The Arch, where the Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean meet. Originally a fishing village, the area has expanded over the years and is now home to the biggest fishing tournament in the world, luxe resorts, and a marina where some of the best deep-sea fishing excursions begin. Some of the region's top beaches are located here including Lover's Beach, Divorce Beach, and Medano Beach.

Whether you're seeking to plan a destination wedding or honeymoon, Los Cabos offers a variety of options including civil ceremonies, beach settings, or church weddings. Golfers can choose from an array of courses with amazing views, including Quivira located amidst rolling dunes at Land's End, 275 feet above the sea. If wellness is your style, the region's resorts have a variety of mind, body, and spirit treatments along with one-of-a-kind spa retreats.

 

Here Are 5 Top Los Cabos Hotels

 

5. Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal

Providing an oasis of luxury and sophistication, Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is a beachfront resort set amidst the cliffs at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula. The secluded oasis offers Mexican hospitality with a bottle of Clase Azul Reposado tequila to welcome guests, local cuisine at Don Manuel's, a cliffside culinary experience at El Farallon, and an array of sensory treatments inspired by the moon, sea, and Mexican folk healing at the Waldorf Astoria Spa. Plus guests can partake in a curated collection of nature focused activities that reveal the diverse landscape, wildlife, and people of the Baja region.

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: All guests making reservations with Five Star Alliance receive daily full breakfast for two daily and a $150 resort credit once per stay.

Book a stay at Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal >>

 

4. Chileno Bay Resort & Residences

Chileno Bay Resort & Residences

Offering a waterfront setting and a three-tiered resort pool, Chileno Bay Resort & Residences is a luxury resort within the Auberge Resorts Collection. Set on one of Cabo's only swimmable beaches, the resort provides guests with a variety of sports options, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. COMAL showcases views of the Sea of Cortez within an open-air setting and the Spa at Chileno Bay provides award-winning Auberge Signature Treatments along with purification gardens and an aromatherapy steam room. Resort guests have access to the private members-only Chileno Bay Club's championship golf course designed by Tom Fazio.

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: All guests making reservations with Five Star Alliance will receive daily full breakfast in Comal and a $100 spa treatment credit per room, per stay.

Book a stay at Chileno Bay Resort and Residences >>

 

3. Montage Los Cabos 

Montage Los Cabos

Situated along 39 acres of white-sand beach where the Sea of Cortez meets the Baja desert sands is Montage Los Cabos. Offering 122 rooms, suites, and casitas, as well as 52 Montage Residences, the property features modern Mexican styling. The swimmable beach provides guests with swimming, diving, and snorkeling options, while Paintbox provides immersive programs for children. For dining, the resort showcases a fresh take on Mexican culinary traditions with an emphasis on seafood and locally sourced ingredients, as well as a Master Tequilero to create tailor-made experiences.

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: All guests making reservations with Five Star Alliance will receive full breakfast for two daily available in the restaurant or through in-room dining, a $100 food and beverage credit, and a welcome amenity. Specialty Suites (Beachfront Junior Suite and above categories) will also receive a one way airport transfer for up to 4 guests.

Book a stay at Montage Los Cabos >>

 

2. The Cape, A Thompson Hotel

The Cape, A Thompson Hotel

Featuring a vibrant 1960s-meets-Southern-California feel with a mid-century modern aesthetic, The Cape, A Thompson Hotel, is a luxury beach resort and spa. There's a private stairway to the secluded surfing destination of Monuments Beach, and a host of local experiences for guests including visiting the surf village of Todos Santos and the Cabo Pulmo Marine Preserve on the Sea of Cortez. The resort's cuisine highlights regional food and beverages, and a sunken seating area with a fire pit and communal tables has views of downtown Cabo and The Arch. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Reservations booked under the "5 Star Signature Package" rate or "Best Available Rate" will also include full breakfast for two daily in The Ledge, complimentary Wi-Fi, a $100 food and beverage, and a welcome amenity.

Book a stay at The Cape >>

 

1. One&Only Palmilla

One&Only Palmilla

Set at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, One&Only Palmilla is an exclusive luxury resort with beachfront access to one of the region's few swimmable beaches. Golfers can hit the 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature-designed golf course with deep arroyos and scenic ocean views. There is a destination spa with a pampering salon, daily yoga in a secluded garden, and a movement studio. The distinctive menu by chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten is served in four unique venues, and rooms are appointed with deluxe amenities. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Reservations booked under the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also include continental breakfast for two daily and a $150 resort credit.

Book a stay at One&Only Palmilla >>

 

Explore more Los Cabos Luxury Resorts


| By: Courtney W. May

This luxury boutique hotel is one of the most beautiful fairytale romantic castle hotels in the Czech Republic, built in 1903 and was famous for attracting elite people of the time. Today, after extensive renovations, Hotel Rübezahl is an exclusive location for travelers wishing to treat themselves to reenergizing relaxation, savor exquisite dishes accompanied by the tones of classical music in the gourmet restaurant “The Castle”, or experience an array of outdoor activities in the fresh air such as golf in the “Royal Golf course”, skiing, cycling or horseback riding, to mention but a few of the countless possibilities. Guests can also spend an evening at the gorgeous Casino Bellevue. Continue reading below the photo.

Rubezahl Castle

This luxury castle hotel in Czech Republic is a haven of lavish living across its three floors and 43 elegantly appointed rooms and suites. Wrapped in a legendary atmosphere, the hotel captivates its guests with the refinement of its details which places it amongst the most prestigious in the Czech Republic. The splendor of the marble, the crystal chandeliers, precious wood, grand staircases, classic motifs and antique furnishings — this majestic property offers its guests an extraordinary fairytale holiday experience. Here, you will be able to enter the realm of fairytales and be introduced to a land full of mythand legend. In fact, the statue of the mythical figure of local folklore “Rubezahl, Lord of the Mountains” stands proudly in our grounds and was erected before the castle hotel was built. Rubezahl Marienbad takes its name after this mountain spirit who was so revered for centuries, and considered the protector of the region. His benevolent energy is something that graces our estate, with our esteemed guests’ testimonials reporting to having experienced an incredibly restful sleep and positive energy upon awakening. The location of this historical luxury castle hotel is simply unique. Read more below the photo.

Rubezahl Castle Room

Positioned on top of a hill, it is surrounded by the Slavkovsky forest. It offers stunning panoramic views of the town below that will instill a sublime sense of relaxation and rejuvenation. You will feel as if you have found the portal to a different era, and experience a holiday with a wellness element that will remain etched in your memory for years to come Wellness Castle Hotel in Marianske Lazne Enjoy the great feeling of absolute relaxation and let yourself be pampered from head to toe. The wellness area at Hotel Rübezahl in Marianske Lazne comprises a Roman Irish bath (sauna, hamam, wet massage, jet pool), different massages, salt cave and salt sauna as well as a fully equipped fitness center. Our wellness center also offers two programs for its guests, Burnout syndrome recovery and weight loss program.

For dining, Restaurant “The Castle” We serve an enticing selection of unique recipes that are a perfect blend of traditional meets creative, prepared by the expert hands of our talented chef and his team. Here you will experience an incomparable evening of fine-dining by candle light that invites guests to explore the culinary treasures of Czech Republic gastronomy, using only the finest and freshest of ingredients. Read more below the Restaurant "The Castle" photo.

Restaurant The Castle at Rubezahl Castle

Nearby sights include: Boheminum Miniature Park, Singing fountain, Tepla Abbey, Trips to Bohemia, Prague as well as tours to Austria and Bavaria.

Visit the Hotel Rübezahl's website to book a stay


| By: Rachael Weir

Nestled amidst the tropical forest, the Spring Villas at Nayara Springs is an ultra-luxe retreat ideal for couples. Located within an adults-only boutique resort, each Spring Villa has its own private plunge pool fed by natural mineral hot springs, indoor and outdoor seating areas with daybeds, and large private gardens with dual outdoor rain showers. Within each Spring Villa is a sleek four-poster king bed, spacious bathroom, indigenous wood and stone accents, exotic touches, and modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen satelitte TV, and iHome audio system. In addition, the Spring Villas also include a private host to compliment the hotel's staff. Continue reading about the resort and an exclusive Perk below the photo. 

Spring Villa at Nayara Springs

Nayara Springs is an adults-only luxury boutique hotel in the rainforests of Costa Rica. Offering an authentic jungle experience, the property has all the amenities of a five-star hotel including two infinity pools, an award-winning spa with outdoor treatment bungalows, and two gastronomic restaurants--Amor Loco with candlelit gourmet dinners, and Mis Amores with Mediterranean cuisine. While staying at the resort, guests are immersed in the rainforests, where toucan, macaws, and hummingbirds fly amidst lush foliage. Learn about an exclusive Five Star Alliance Perk below the photo.

Nayara Springs Overview

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Reservations booked under the "5 Star Signature Package" rate or "Best Available Rate" will also include buffet breakfast for two daily at Altamira, and a $100 USD spa services credit per room/per stay.

Book a stay at Nayara Springs


| By: Rachael Weir

Offering an all-inclusive family retreat in Jamaica, Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall is a luxury resort in Montego Bay. Set on 670 feet of Caribbean beachfront, the resort has 16 restaurants, bars, and lounges. There's also two outdoor swimming pools and two heated whirlpools, as well as daily activities including watersports, dance lessons, and games. While the Zen Spa & Salon provides massages, facials, hair, and nail services. Read more below the photo.

Overview of Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall

For families, the KidZ Club playground, game room, and lounge is a destination for young travelers. While the Rose Hall Village has gifts, beach gear, cigars, and jewelry. Plus, there is a 24-hour fitness center with daily workout classes, and nightly evening entertainment featuring live music and theater shows. 

The resort offers 277 unique rooms and suites including swim-up rooms and butler suites. One of the unique accommodation options is the One Bedroom Swim Up Suite. Featuring direct access to a semi-private pool with in-pool lounge chairs, the suite has 1,083-square feet of space, including separate living and sleeping areas. The one bedroom suite sleeps up to three guests with a bedroom featuring a Hyatt Grand Bed, and a pull-out sofa bed in the living room. While the bathroom has a rainfall shower and separate bathtub. Continue reading below the photo.

Swim Up Suites at Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: All guests making reservations with Five Star Alliance for this family-friendly all-inclusive retreat will also receive a 50 minute Swedish Massage per room/per stay, subject to the hotel's terms and conditions, and a welcome amenity.

Book a stay at Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall


| By: Rachael Weir

Paris is always a good idea, and the Duplex Terrace Eiffel View Suite at Shangri-La Hotel Paris takes luxury to a new level. The bi-level suite provides two floors of elegant living space including a spacious living area, mezzanine, high ceilings, chandelier, and 2-story high windows that open to a one-of-a-kind private terrace featuring breathtaking views of the iconic Eiffel Tower. Continue reading below the photo of the Duplex Terrace Eiffel View Suite.

Duplex Terrace Eiffel View Suite at Shangri-La Hotel Paris

Within the suite there is a spacious living area with Eiffel Tower views, natural wood furniture, and marquetry--French clear-cut shapes and symmetrical designs. There's a full-size executive writing desk, a plush bedroom with a Shangri-La signature bed and bedside lighting controls. While the marble-clad bathroom has a heated floor, flat-screen TV, mist-free mirror, large walk-in shower, and separate soaking tub. Plus, 24/7 Shangri-La service. 

Formerly the home of Napoleon Bonaparte's grandnephew, Prince Roland Bonaparte, the Shangri-La Hotel Paris offers old-world elegance, and a regal setting with commanding views of the Eiffel Tower and River Seine. The hotel's Shang Palace earned a Michelin Star for its Cantonese cuisine, and the property's French gastronomic restaurant L'Abeille was awarded two Michelin stars. Learn about an exclusive Five Star Alliance Perk below the photo.

Entry at Shangri-La Hotel Paris

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE 2020 SUITE PRIVILEGES: Guests booking a suite stay of 2 or more nights receive a a one-way airport transfer. This offer is valid for stays of at least two nights through December 31, 2020 in the Deluxe Suite, Terrace Suite, Duplex Eiffel View Suite, Duplex Terrace Eiffel View Suite, Suite Gustave Eiffel, Suite Chaillot, Apartement Prince Bonaparte, and Suite Shangri-La. 

In addition, this hotel offers an exclusive FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK that can be combined with Suite Privileges (if requirements are met). 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also include full buffet breakfast for each guest daily in “La Bauhinia”, an 85 Euro hotel credit per room/per stay (not valid for room rate and no cash value), and VIP amenities including a bottle of Champagne upon arrival. Additionally, bookings for the Deluxe Suite Category and above also receive a one way airport transfer with VIP Meet and Greet upon arrival. 

Check availability at Shangri-La Hotel Paris


| By: Rachael Weir

Seeking time in the sun or family fun? Explore the Sunshine State. In this edition of Featured Journeys we are visiting luxury hotels in Orlando, Miami, and Key West. Whether you want couple time, family time, or a getaway with friends, these destinations offer warm weather, tropical breezes, and palm trees. 

Orlando

Situated in central florida, Orlando is the destination for family fun at some of the world's best theme parks. From riding roller coasters to picture with characters, families, couples, and friends can all find ways to create memorable moments. Ready for time away from theme parks? The area's resorts provide plenty of pools, spas, and golf courses ideal for rejuvenating. 

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lake

Surrounded by nature, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes is a luxury resort amidst 500 acres of land with an array of on-site activities including Eco Tours, kayaking, fishing, and three pools. Convenient to Orlando attractions, the property offers a relaxing setting with Ritz Kids supervised programs and scheduled transportation to nearby theme parks. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERKS: Reservations booked under the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also include breakfast buffet for two daily, WiFi, and a $100 resort credit per room/per stay.

Book a stay at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

Explore more Orlando Luxury Hotels

Miami

Set on the Atlantic Ocean in southern Florida, Miami is a multicultural destination by the beach. The iconic South Beach is home to Art Deco buildings transformed into luxury hotels, boutiques, and restaurants. While downtown offers plenty to explore. 

The Setai

Ocean Suite at The Setai Miami Beach

Offering a desirable location on the oceanside of South Beach, The Setai blends personalized service with Asian hospitality and the latest in-room comforts and technologies. Weaving the aesthetics of the Far East with Art Deco architecture, the hotel has three temperature-controlled pools, beachfront services, exceptional dining options, and The Spa by THÉMAÉ. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERKS: All reservations booked under the “5 Star Signature Package” rate will also receive a daily buffet breakfast for two in Jaya (up to four guests in a two Bedroom Suite), WiFi, and a $100 spa credit per room/per stay.

Book a stay at The Setai

Explore more Miami Luxury Hotels

Key West

Offering plentiful sunshine year-round, Key West is the destination for partying and escaping the grind of daily life. In a place where everyone is always on vacation, visitors can relax by the pool, go on active pursuits such as diving or deap-sea fishing, or dine on the freshest seafood. 

Casa Marina

View from Pool at Casa Marina

Opened in 1920, Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort is a luxury resort listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Merging Old Key West ambiance with contemporary luxuries, the property offers laidback styling with Mediterranean-style ocean view rooms. The private beach spans more than 1,100 feet, there are two heated swimming pools with attentive service, and guests can partake in an array of activities including paddle boarding, deep-sea fishing, and scuba diving. Ready to relax? The beachside Spa al Maré has a variety of offerings including an Ocean Breeze Massage, Aromatherapy Salt Glow, and Seaweed Body Mask.

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Reservations booked under the "5 Star Signature Package" rate or "Best Available Rate" will also include buffet breakfast for two daily, a welcome amenity on the night of arrival, WiFi, and a $100 food and beverage credit per room/per stay.

Book a stay at Casa Marina

Explore more Key West Luxury Hotels


| By: Rachael Weir

Showcasing panoramic views of the city skyline and Yarra River, the Langham Hotel Melbourne provides an ideal location on the city's famous Southbank Promenade. The hotel's restaurant, Melba offers dining with an element of theater, and the Aria Bar is the destination for afternoon tea by day and cocktails at night. The Chuan Spa is a holistic wellness sanctuary with facials, body treatments, and massages inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine. Plus, there is a 13-meter indoor pool awash with natural sunlight and a fully-equipped fitness center and health club. Continue reading about the hotel and an exclusive Five Star Alliance Perk below the photo. 

The Langham Melbourne

Designed for discerning travelers, the hotel's 388 rooms and suites each offer views of either the skyline or the Yarra River. One of the hotel's highlights is the Kerrie Hess Residence Suite. Featuring artwork and design by Australian illustrator Kerrie Hess, the special 2 bedroom residence suite offers an elegant retreat on the tenth floor of the hotel. Featuring 1,442 square feet/128 square meters of space, the residence has a spacious lounge and dining area with seating for up to six guests. The artful retreat has artwork by Hess, as well as furnishings inspired by the artist's style. There's also a refrigerated private bar, Nespresso machine, MP3 docks to play music throughout the suite, a media hub to connect a laptop to the TV, and a separate laundry and storage area for luggage. Continue reading below the photo.

The Kerrie Hess Residence Suite at The Langham Melbourne

There are two bedrooms within the Kerrie Hess Residence Suite. The Master Bedroom has a king-sized Langham Blissful Bed, 32-inch LCD TV, a walk-in wardrobe and dressing area, as well as a marble bathroom with a separate shower and bath. The second bedroom has a marble bathroom and a 42-inch LCD TV with digital IPTV system, and can be configured with a king or two twin Langham Blissful Beds.

Guests of the suite also receive a bottle of Veuve Clicquot rosé, Koko Black chocolates in couture-inspired packaging and three bespoke Kerrie Hess postcards to send or take home. The package also includes valet parking and access to the hotel’s fitness centre, conservatory-covered pool, spa, sauna and steam room, as well as the hotel's nightly turn down service with Langham bottled water and chocolates. Learn about an exclusive Five Star Alliance Perk below the photo. 

The Langham Melbourne Kerrie Hess Residence Suite

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERKS: Reservations booked under the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also include buffet breakfast for two daily in Melba, a formal Afternoon Tea for two in Aria or Langham Club Lounge once per stay, and complimentary WiFi.

Book a stay at Langham Hotel Melbourne


| By: Courtney W. May

Stay & Play For Winter Offer

Venture to a residential mountain retreat for five nights an receive a $1,000 Resort Credit*

-- Book 5 nights in a Residence at Montage Deer Valley

-- Receive a $1,000 Resort Credit, daily Continental Breakfast for 2 in Apex, also available with room service (maximum $60 credit per room, per day) and a welcome amenity.

-- In addition, based on availability at check-in an automatic upgrade, early check-in, and/or late check-out. 

-- Complete travel by April 12, 2020

Learn more below the photo.

Montage Deer Valley

Montage Deer Valley is a refined mountain retreat set amidst the wooded valleys and slopes rising over Park City, Utah. Featuring ski-in/ski-out access, making it an idyllic retreat for skiiers, the property appeals to all types of guests with an array of year-round activities including an on-site bowling alley, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, hot air ballooning, as well as alpine slides and coasters. There's also a 35,000-square-foot spa sanctuary, gourmet dining, European-inspired architecture, and the Montage Art Collection throughout the resort showcasing Audubon-style prints and mountain landscapes. Located five minutes from Main Street, the property is a perfect base for family ski trips and multi-generational adventures. 

Book a stay at Montage Deer Valley

*Please note: Five nights minimum stay required. Valid on residential accommodations only. Rate varies by accommodation type, date of travel and season, subject to availability. Valid on new bookings, not combinable with any other packages or promotions, not applicable to groups. Rates exclude taxes and fees. Book and travel by April 12, 2020. Blackout dates may apply. 


| By: Rachael Weir

As the romantic month of February begins, we're highlighting the City of Light. Known for its beautiful boulevards where couples can stroll hand-in-hand, sip a glass of Champagne at a Belle Epoque bar, meander through an art museum admiring world-famous works of art, or dine on the finest French cuisine, Paris is an iconic destination. 

In this edition of Destination Spotlight, we worked with Luxury Travel Intelligence to gain valuable insider information on some of Paris' top hotels, as well as recommended dining options.

For foodies, Luxury Travel Intelligence recommends Champeaux, a contemporary Brasserie by Alain Ducasse and Olivier Maurey. Situated in the 1st err, Champeaux is a short distance from the Saint-Eustache Church under the Canopée in Forum des Halles. LTI states, "we love the signature soufflé – there is both a sweet and savoury variation on offer. The space itself is designed for lingering – book the le Salon Prive, which overlooks La Canopée’s great forecourt". Looking for a floating dining option? Check out Ducasse Sur Seine. Docked in front of the Eiffel Tower, this restaurant by Alain Ducasse floats along the Seine while diners enjoy lunch or dinner. According to LTI, "the dining room has a dash of retro, with a Warhol-esque carpet and floor-to-ceiling windows for perfect viewing. Menu is contemporary French cuisine, cooked on board and featuring seasonal produce."

Ready to explore Paris?

Here are 5 Top Paris Luxury Hotels:

5. Cour Des Vosges

Cour Des Vosges

Overlooking the Louis XIII gardens with a tearoom and Roman Baths, Cour Des Vosges is a luxury hotel in Les Marais. Reinventing history, the historic royal property was transformed in the fall of 2019 to showcase painted ceilings and Renaissance grandeur with an ethereal and mysterious feel. The hotel's Brach-La Pâtisserie tearoom has a terrace and serves light refreshments created by Yann Brys, Meilleur Ouvrier de France.

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: All guests making reservations with Five Star Alliance will also receive a complimentary breakfast daily for two, and a pastry from Yann Brys at the time of check-in.

Book a stay at Cour Des Vosges

4. Mandarin Oriental Paris

Mandarin Oriental Paris

According to Luxury Travel Intelligence, "the beautifully-designed, contemporary building on the Rue Saint-Honoré immediately sets it apart from Paris’ other top-end hotels. Inside, the modern rooms combine sleek style with boudoir-chic, Art Deco tweaks and the best technical amenities (such as Nespresso and Bang & Olufsen) – although the bathrooms are a little dimly lit for our liking." Blending the brand's Asian aesthetic with Parisian style, the hotel offers the Sur Measure restaurant, and a spa centered around a huge pool. Insider Tip: LTI's top suite pick is the Royale Mandarin Suite with a large terrace overlooking the Garnier Opera and the Eiffel Tower. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Reservations booked under the "5 Star Signature Package" rate include an American Breakfast for two daily at Camelia Restaurant or continental breakfast for two daily through in-room dining, a $100 USD food and beverage credit once during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full), VIP treatment, personalized welcome amenities, and complimentary WiFi. Reservations booked under the "5 Star Signature Package" rate in a Suite for at least 2 nights will also receive a complimentary one-way transfer with meet and greet at the gate of the plane.

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3. Brach Paris

Brach Suite Eiffel Tower Views

Designed by Philippe Starck, Brach Paris occupies a former postal sorting center. Blending designer interiors with a healthy lifestyle and glamorous accents, the hotel has a sports club in the lower level with boxing and Pilates, as well as a swimming pool, hot tub, hammam, salt grotto and sauna. But according to Luxury Travel Intelligence, "the piece de resistance, however, is the guests only rooftop terrace with vegetable garden, dining space and views over all of Paris and the Eiffel Tower."

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2. Nolinski Paris

Nolinski Paris

Blending the grandeur of Belle Epoque with contemporary style, Nolinski Paris is "designed to resemble the home of a wealthy fictional character called Nolinski, expect abstract art, jagged geometric lines, a blue and green colour scheme and lots of marble and mirrored surfaces," states Luxury Travel Intelligence. The hotel has a signature scent, lobby with art and photography exhibitions, spa with a hammam and 16-meter pool with a mirrored ceiling, and contemporary French cuisine at Brasserie Réjane. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests that book through Five Star Alliance receive a welcome pastry or appetizer with personalized note from the management and a Gourmet basket “Souvenirs de Paris” by REJ (value 50 Euro). Additionally, guests who stay between October 20, 2019 and February 29, 2020 receive a 100 Euro Spa credit per room/per stay.

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1. Shangri-La Hotel Paris

Shangri-La Hotel Paris

Luxury Travel Intelligence states, "Huge rooms, high ceilings, murals, mosaics and plenty of gold and marble characterise the interiors of the Shangri-La Hotel Paris. It really is fit for a King – the building was once home to Prince Roland Bonaparte, great-nephew of Napoleon." The property is distinctly European with a recently opened spa, while the hotel's heritage is incorporated in the cuisine with Asian/French fusion in La Bauhinia and the Shang Palace with gourmet Cantonese cuisine. Insider Tip: Luxury Travel Intelligence recommends the Eiffel Premier Room or a room in the new Garden Wing. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERKS: Reservations booked under the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also include full buffet breakfast for each guest daily in “La Bauhinia”, an 85 Euro hotel credit per room/per stay (not valid for room rate and no cash value), and VIP amenities including a bottle of Champagne upon arrival. Additionally, bookings for the Deluxe Suite Category and above also receive a one way airport transfer with VIP Meet and Greet upon arrival.

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