Romantic Stay at the Romeo Hotel in Naples, Italy

Romeo Hotel - Naples
Courtesy of: Romeo Hotel

Naples Italy was made for amore, especially once Romeo came to town – the Romeo Hotel that is!

Designed to reflect the new face of Naples – the Romeo Hotel, an eighty-three room boutique hotel is literally a work of art.

Alluringly masculine and yet sweetly seductive in design (just like Shakespeare’s young Italian lover), this Neapolitan boutique hotel juxtaposes modern architecture with soft, natural décor elements and a rare antiquities and art collection.

Further embracing its shared name, they have crafted a Valentine’s getaway guaranteed to sweep every Juliette off her feet.

Acting as guests’ contemporary “castle” from which to explore Naples, mornings can be spent strolling along the coast taking in views of Mt. Vesuvius.

Evenings allow for sharing tastes of fresh mozzarella, homemade pasta and local seafood delicacies guaranteeing an ending opposite of the final scene in the “Bard of Avon’s” classic tale.

Romeo Hotel’s St. Valentine’s Package includes:

* Two nights accommodations with breakfast “at your leisure” each morning to allow extra moments of peace before the “nurse” bursts in
* Champagne and roses upon arrival to set a festive tone
* Personalized Romeo Hotel City Guide to aid in exploring the city and uncovering its hidden secrets (each entry in the guide was hand chosen by the hotel staff to ensure it included the best insider recommendations)
* One gourmet dinner for two at the hotel’s fine dining restaurant Il Comandante, inclusive of a selection of wines from the hotel’s 1,000-label collection
* Complimentary entry to Romeo Wellness, the hotel’s spa and fitness space, to unwind after a day of touring
* Rates begin at 625.00 EURO for a Deluxe Harbor View Room and are based on double occupancy inclusive of two nights, service and all taxes.

Bookings can be made by calling the hotel directly at +39 081 0175008 or visiting www.romeohotel.it




“Celebrate in Style and with Luxury, Naturally” Package at Hotel Vitale

luxury Hotel Vitale - San Francisco
Hotel Vitale

Flagship property Hotel Vitale in San Francisco, is celebrating the honor of Joie de Vivre Hotels’ 25th anniversary. Hotel Vitale can be found along San Francisco’s scenic Embarcadero.

The luxury hotel is offering an over-the-top celebration package – “Celebrate in Style and with Luxury, Naturally,” that’s ideal for couples.

The Hotel Vitale package includes:

– Deluxe Waterfront King room, based on a two night stay
– Dinner for two at the hotel’s onsite restaurant, Americano (http://www.hotelvitale.com/americano.aspx) including a bottle of Krug Grand Cuvee Champagne
– Side-by-side massage treatments at Spa Vitale (Deluxe Session) which is located on the penthouse floor of the property (http://www.hotelvitale.com/spa_vitale.aspx)
– Overnight valet parking

The Hotel Vitale “Celebrate in Style and with Luxury, Naturally” package is priced at $2,500 (based on double occupancy) and includes both taxes and gratuities.

This 25th Anniversary package also includes iconic gifts for him and her:
– Tiffany Metropolis cuff links in sterling silver for him: http://tinyurl.com/7g9cfya
– Tiffany 1837 hoop earrings in sterling silver for her: http://tinyurl.com/75s36ot

Please visit www.hotelvitale.com for additional information about Hotel Vitale and to book this special anniversary package. You can learn more about Joie de Vivre’s anniversary activities, visit www.jdvhotels.com/turns25




Experience the New JetLev at The TradeWinds Island Grand in Florida

TradeWinds JetLev
TradeWinds JetLev

The luxurious TradeWinds Island Grand can be found on the unspoiled white sand beaches of Florida’s scenic West Coast. The property offers limitless beachfront recreation, fine dining, plus a wide selection of activities and amenities for both families and couples looking to “just let go.”

The TradeWinds Island Grand is located directly on the Gulf of Mexico on St. Pete Beach. This incredible beach was just named the #1 U.S. beach destination in TripAdvisor’s 2012 Travelers’ Choice Awards.

If you’ve ever dreamed of flying, now you fulfill that dream with an amazing ride on the new JetLev.

JetLev is a water propelled jetpack that soars up to heights of 30 feet at 30 miles per hour. TradeWinds is proud to be the first on Florida’s west coast properties to offer flights aboard these custom-designed packs.

This exhilarating experience takes JetLev riders into the Gulf of Mexico and allows them to fly over or even walk on the water. Each JetLev session is 45 minutes, with a ride time of 30 minutes.

The cost to “fly” on JetLev is just $275 for hotel guests and $310 for non-guests. Fliers must be at least 18 years of age.

The TradeWinds is also adding electric surfboards, called WaveJets to its list of exciting watersport family of options. WaveJet riders can travel over 8 miles per hour on these hands-free, eco-friendly boards that utilize rechargeable batteries.

Both the JetLev and the WaveJet surf board rides are open to the public. All of these unique vacation experiences can be booked at the new TradeWinds Adventure Center, located poolside at the Island Grand.

For reservations and information, call toll-free (866) JUST LET GO (587-8538), visit www.JustLetGo.com




Swissôtel Makkah – Largest Hotel in Saudi Arabia

Swissotel Makkah Saudi Arabia - tea lounge
Swissôtel Makkah – Saudi Arabia

The luxurious Swissôtel Makkah features 1,487 beautifully appointed rooms and suites and is proud to be the largest hotel of Saudi Arabia plus the biggest entity of Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts.

Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts is an award winning group of distinctive hotels that combine Swiss hospitality with personalized service, charm and efficiency.

The new Saudi Arabia luxury hotel is scheduled to open the 1st day of Ramadan in July 2012. The hotel will feature a modern design, that truly complements the traditional values of the authentic Arabian culture.

Swissôtel Makkah’s 1,487 well appointed deluxe rooms and suites offer breathtaking views of the Grand Mosque and the Holy Kaaba. The result delivers an unforgettable and overwhelming experience in the Islamic Capital of the world for its hotel guests.

Swissôtel Makkah is strategically located just steps away from the Grand Mosque and offers the exquisite portfolio of compellingly elegant rooms and suites which includes comfortable 36 sqm rooms, pre-set 352 triple-bed rooms and also 22 disabled-friendly rooms along with free Internet access for all the guests of the hotel.

The luxury hotel offers several fine dining choices. Al Rowad restaurant is a casual all day dining experience that will feature delicacies from North Africa, Indonesia, Middle East and India. Café Swiss serves a delicious combination of traditional and international specialties.




The 85-Room Intimate Luxury of Hotel Belgraves London

Hotel Belgraves London
Hotel Belgraves London

Contrary to high-risers and hundreds of hotel rooms, Thompson Hotels took a different approach with their new Hotel Belgraves London.  Its premier transatlantic addition is located in Central London’s affluent Belgravia neighborhood, minutes from internationally renowned shops and the famed Sloane Square.

Infusing American bohemian attitude into traditional British hospitality, Hotel Belgraves London translates the signature Thompson luxury experience into a creative movement in design, dining, art, and luxury, pioneering the “new Brittania.”

The property features bold interior architecture and design by acclaimed British designer, Tara Bernerd, and architectural design by EPR Architects.  The 85-room hotel includes an 80-seat restaurant, an intimate library bar, and a fitness center. The chic and eclectic lobby is set to become a second home for both hotel guests and London socialites alike.

Each luxurious room boasts custom-made 400 thread count SFERRA linens, marble flooring, and bathroom amenities by the 140 year-old London luxury skincare and cosmetics brand, Penhaligon’s.  The hotel also features original artwork by a variety of contemporary UK & US artists including Mat Collishaw, Stephen Webster, Natasha Law, Miranda Donovan, Tim Noble & Sue Webster, Rachel Howard, Gary Webb, and many others.

The luxury hotel features an onsite restaurant, the HIX Belgravia, led by Mark Hix.  True to Mark Hix’s approach to luxury dining, with passionately sourced ingredients that are prepared and cooked simply.  Exclusive to the HIX restaurant menu is Mark Hix’s personal favorite dishes inspired by his travels from around the world.

To celebrate its opening, Hotel Belgraves London has launched their #loveLDN photo contest where the winner receives a two-night weekend stay at Belgraves & an all-access pass and VIP tour to capture Belgraves London through the Instagram lens.

To view the contest, please visit: http://www.facebook.com/belgraveslondon/app_254553244581393.  Submitting in a photo for a chance to stay one of the premier luxury hotels in London, is definitely worth a shot.




Hotel Saint-Barth Isle de France in French West Indies

Hotel Saint-Barth Isle de France
Hotel Saint-Barth Isle de France

Saint Barthélemy in French West Indies has long been a favorite tropical retreat for the rich and famous. Escape the hustle and bustle of commercialized hotels and overcrowded beaches by traveling to St. Barth’s for a tropical getaway to enjoy sunshine, swimming and serene simplicity.

The upcoming summer months are the ideal time to plan a visit to the Caribbean. Although St. Bart can be one of the more expensive Caribbean islands, Hotel Saint-Barth Isle de France invites guests to experience the magic of this fabulous island with the “2012 Summer Holidays Special for Friends and Family.”

Located on Flamands Bay, which is the most beautiful beach on the island of Saint Barthélemy in French West Indies, Hotel Saint-Barth Isle de France is a small, privately owned resort with a total of 39 rooms, suites and villas, amidst lush, enchanting tropical gardens.

Between now and August 31, Isle de France is offering reduced rates for its hotel guests, in addition to special promotions and added amenities. Included are deluxe accommodations in the serene Garden Rooms and Bungalows, plus private airport transfers, daily continental breakfast with a vast selection of fresh fruit and pastries, welcome complimentary mini-bar, access to all hotel facilities and a complimentary car rental to explore the beautiful island.

Additional benefits of the “2012 Summer Holidays Special for Friends and Family” package at the Hotel Saint-Barth Isle de France include: a sunset cocktail each evening, a complimentary dinner at the hotel’s renowned beach restaurant, and a hammam treatment with black soap at The Spa.

For hotel guests looking to extend their stay for seven or 14 nights, enjoy a Natura Bissé Spa gift, a couples massage, lunch at the main or beach restaurant, one additional dinner (for those staying 14 nights), and a 2-hour champagne sunset cruise. And for those who can’t get enough of summer, the special is also available October 15 – 31.

Rates for this indulgent summer package start at Euro 2095* (approximately USD $2,787) for two Garden Rooms for a 4-day, 3-night stay. For reservations or addition information, please call 1-800-810-4691, or visit www.isle-de-france.com.




Luxury Hotels Now Offering Art Hospitality

The New Art of Hospitality - hotel art

Luxury hotels and resorts around the world continue to look for ways to offer their guests elegance, sophistication, and the best amenities available.

A new trend developing is hotels are adding art to their offerings, both inside their buildings and outside them.

Travelers will increasingly see a wide variety of art forms including art concierges, rotating displays, and even sculpture gardens for you to shop in.

The Wall Street Journal features an article on this exciting new trend titled, “The New Art of Hospitality” where readers get a glimpse of some of the world’s artiest hotels, high-end hot spots that not only offer the best luxury amenities but help you indulge your inner collector or watercolorist!

For art lovers, here’s a sample of what you can experience:

· Mandarin Oriental in Hong Kong has hosted record-setting auctions of Asian art and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s wine collection, and is now the official hotel of Art HK, which runs May 17-20.

· Royal Monceau-Raffles Paris is something of an exhibit itself, with the hotel’s permanent collection displayed in guest rooms, and includes works by photographer Guy Le Querrec and Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos.

· Auberge du Soleil in Napa Valley surround the Ma(i)sonry Sculpture Gallery, an outdoor collection that features 110 figurative and abstract works by California artists scattered along garden pathways and olive trees.

To read the entire Wall Street Journal article, please Click Here




A Fusion of Green Tech and Luxury: The Imperial Hotel Llandudno

The Imperial Hotel Llandudno - Wales
The Imperial Hotel Llandudno

The epitome of traditional Victorian elegance that has enamored the world, The Imperial Hotel, Llandudno has raised the bar in four-star accommodations.

Featuring the stunning views of Llandudno Bay, the Imperial is the largest quality seafront hotel in Northern Wales.  As a member of the Classic British Hotels, The Imperial Hotel is also one of the most eco-friendly.  All of its 98 spacious suites are furnished with Eco.Fresh by Concept Amenities, leading global supplier of environmentally responsible skincare products.

Not sacrificing the environment for luxury, The Imperial Hotel has figured out a way to sustain both.  “The hotel is fully committed to planet stewardship and our environment policy covers all facets of hotel operations from local produce and recycling through to water conservation and green electricity,” explains Public Relations Manager Pip Cockeram.

As active members of “Wales the True Taste,” the hotel also uses local market-fresh produce and ensures that the meats purchased meet ethical criteria in terms of feed and rearing.  All eggs, chickens, and turkeys used are free-range while the pork is farm assured.  In addition, where possible, organic produce is used and unsurprisingly, The Imperial Hotel is an avid supporter of Fairtrade coffee.

No detail is spared in The Imperial Hotel’s efforts to conserve natural resources.  In order to conserve water, the Hotel utilizes meters to measure water consumption in order to set targets for reduction.  The swimming pool is ozone treated, which means it requires less chlorine, and decreases eye and skin irritation for guests.  The Hotel also uses wind, solar, hydro, wave, and tidal resources to power their electricity.

Comfort, style, and minimal carbon footprint are among the top goals of The Imperial Hotel.  Judging from their tireless efforts and attention to every possible resource-conservation detail, it’s no wonder they have earned multiple coveted awards such as Britain’s Best, Best Loved Hotels, Classic British Hotels, and Hotel of the Year.




Enjoy the Gold Chocolate Package at The New York Palace

The New York Palace - Gold Chocolate Package
The New York Palace

The New York Palace, located on the corner of 50th & Madison offers guests the ultimate in old-world elegance and new-world opulence.

Located in the heart of Manhattan, The New York Palace offers 805 luxury rooms and 88 suites. The luxury New York hotel is widely known for its unparalleled splendor, spectacular views, sumptuous rooms and exquisite service.

The New York Palace is celebrating the arrival of Spring, Easter and the 60th birthday of the iconic LINDT GOLD BUNNY with the Gold Chocolate Package.

This special package features premium Lindt chocolate experiences that allow hotel guests to indulge during their stay. A themed hotel package, a custom-created Gold Chocolate Weekend Brunch featuring the LINDT GOLD BUNNY in restaurant Istana, and giant LINDT GOLD BUNNY figures greeting guests from the hotel courtyard all help to usher in the Easter season and spring weather.

The Palace’s Gold Chocolate package includes luxury accommodations and a variety of ways to enjoy premium Lindt chocolate, including a $100 daily food and beverage credit, which can be used towards the Gold Chocolate Weekend Brunch, and an iconic LINDT GOLD BUNNY and special welcome amenity.

The Palace’s Pastry Chefs have custom created a Gold Chocolate Weekend Brunch, featuring the LINDT GOLD BUNNY and premium chocolate dishes, including:
· Raspberry Lemon Pancakes, made with Lindt Classic Recipe White Chocolate Mousse and Almond Brittle Crumble
· “Banana Split” Belgium Waffle, with Chocolate Ice Cream, Caramelized Banana, and Lindt Chocolate Fudge Sauce
· Orange Brioche French Toast, with indulgent Lindt EXCELLENCE 70% Cocoa Ganache, Citrus Segments
· Crème Patisserie Crepes with “Hot Chocolate Affogato”, with Vanilla Bean Gelato, and Shaved Lindt EXCELLENCE A Touch of Sea Salt Chocolate

Two limited-edition chocolate desserts will also be offered at the special brunch, including: a Lindt Classic Recipe White Chocolate macadamia tart with coconut ice cream and Lindt EXCELLENCE 70% Cocoa ganache; and a Lindt chocolate sphere with blood orange brulee paired with a flourless Lindt chocolate brownie. All that glitters at Istana may not be real gold, but it is all certain to be delicious. Over the past 60 years, LINDT GOLD BUNNY has been a cherished centerpiece of families’ Easter celebrations.

Today, LINDT GOLD BUNNY is the #1 selling chocolate bunny in the United States*, and fills Easter baskets in more than 60 countries. In honor of this special milestone birthday, two oversized LINDT GOLD BUNNY figures will greet visitors in the Palace courtyard, perfectly situated for photos.

Hotel package rates start at $369 per night with availability through April 21. Click Here to reserve the Gold Chocolate Package at The New York Palace, or please visit: www.newyorkpalace.com.

 




La Plage Resort on Sicily, Italy

La Plage Resort - Italy
Courtesy of: La Plage Resort

Isola Bella is Sicily’s famous nature island preserve.

Italy’s Ragosta Hotels Collection has combined “luxury with nature” with the launch of its chic new boutique resort, La Plage Resort.

La Plage Resort was created to attract the growing travel trend of up-market travelers seeking an extraordinary hospitality experience that incorporates elements of their own lifestyles, including modern yet stylish accommodations and innovative dining options.

La Plage Resort will open as a five-star boutique property with only 61 guestrooms and suites.

La Plage Resort was designed by the architecture firm of Pantha, and created on the philosophy of “luxury based on nature.”

The luxury resort is located in a secular pine forest, and all design aspects and furnishing feature natural elements such as stone, woods and plants.

Below are some of La Plage Resort amenities:

Guestroom and Suites:
* Standard Rooms
* Bungalow Garden View Rooms
* Bungalow Sea View Rooms
* Deluxe Bungalow Sea View Rooms
* Suites
* Deluxe Suits

Dining:
* Fusion Restaurant featuring Italian and Asian cuisine overlooking Isola Bella
* Lounge Bar located near Fusion Restaurant
* Seaside Bar with refreshment services
* Reception halls with accommodations for up to 200 guests

SPA/Fitness:
* On-site ExPure SPA facilities featuring four-person Jacuzzi, emotional shower, Turkish bath, massage room, relaxation area with tea corner and Panoramic solarium
* Gym

Additional services and signature amenities at the resort include: in-room customized toiletries from ExPure SPA, Amaretto Lazzaroni cookies, luxurious linens, robes and towels.

In addition to enjoying the uber-luxury items in the guestrooms and villas travelers will be able to customize their hotel stay in the manner in which they are accustomed but with an element of surprise and pure decadence.

For additional information, please visit La Plage Resort




Blue Palace in Crete – Where Infinity Is Just A Step Away

Blue Palace - Crete
Courtesy of: Blue Palace

If mountains could grow hotels, then the Blue Palace in Crete would certainly be one such case, magically combining rugged, arid mountains with the warm, turquoise ocean, the cool breeze drifting in from the bay with the warmth of the rocks from which the villas, bungalows and private suites seem to have formed naturally over time.

There are few places on earth where infinity really seems to be something tangible that you can experience, yet at the Blue Palace, infinity is just a step through your veranda doors and into your private pool.

The Blue Palace is nestled within a picturesque, quiet bay that exemplifies the natural beauty that is Crete. With the well known coast of Elounda on one side, the ancient and majestic relics of Spinalonga Island on the other, the 251 stylish and contemporary rooms and villas enjoy one of the most remarkable locations.

Carved from the rocks down which the bungalows and villas appear to tumble towards the warm ocean, every room and every villa enjoys magnificent ocean views. With most villas and suites having their own private infinity pools, you can quite literally step from exquisite comfort to infinity in a single breath.

The Blue Palace has truly been designed to provide the perfect retreat to help calm and relax both the body and the mind, with infinity pools and a white pebbled beach both providing escape, and the exclusive Elounda Spa where thalassic pools are filled each day with fresh heated seawater drawn directly from the Cretan Pelagos, providing the ultimate in relaxation and therapy.

The Elounda Spa provides a range of Thalassotherapy treatments and is situated on the white pebbled beach on three levels, offering unbeatable indulgence that’s guaranteed to wear away the troubles of the other world you used to worry about. The other world seems to grow faint as the serenity and peace combines with the outstanding natural beauty of the resort to provide an experience which is likely to stay with you for a very long time.

But whilst all this luxury feeds the soul, the body needs feeding too – and the Blue Palace does not disappoint here either. In fact, with five restaurants to choose from you may find that deciding which one to choose each night is the most stressful part of your stay!

At the very top of the resort, boasting the most astonishing views across the Aegean Sea is The Olea Main Restaurant. The award winning L’Orangerie is where you’ll be able to choose from a range of Mediterranean dishes which use locally sourced ingredients, in addition to an enviable wine list.

Alternatively you may choose the Blue Door right on the water’s edge where the day’s catch will be served up with a traditional Greek salad, for a dining experience that’s one of the freshest possible. An Asian dining experience is available at the aptly named Asia Blue, where the menu includes dishes ranging from Chinese and Polynesian to Thai and Japanese.

The experience of staying at the Blue Palace – Crete, is one which might be considered the closest possible opportunity to fulfill William Blake’s suggestion to ‘Hold infinity in the palm of your hand, And eternity in an hour.’