To some travelers, the hotel is critical to the experience. We report on the newest, most noteworthy hotels; old classics we still love; or someplace fun and funky that reflects a special mood. Anything goes: prices range from modest to lavish.
Stuffy, staid English-ness? Yes, St. Ermin’s is just a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace and St. James’s Park and the ceiling lobby is finished in full on Rococo plasterwork rivaling the Sistine Chapel’s decoration. And true, it does feel like Mr. Darcy might walk down the grand staircase at any … Read more
When I told family and friends we were getting ready for a trip to Montana, here were the various reactions: “Montana? What are you going to do in Montana?” “Do you have family there?” “Are you guys doing that “yuppy glamping thing” I’ve been reading about?” The responses were simple: … Read more
Family. Nature. Comfort. These three words perfectly describe South Seas Island Resort, a three hour drive northwest of Miami on Captiva Island, accessible by car from Sanibel Island via Blind Pass Bridge. Put all preconceived notions aside, this is no stereotypical Florida resort but one with a special natural beauty … Read more
The approach to Jade Mountain says it all … exclusive and private. A steep, winding road meanders along the cliffs of St. Lucia’s Morne Chastenet for what seems like forever then suddenly you enter a kind of natural paradise hugging the side of the mountain. Out of the car, you … Read more
I’M IN SAN FRANCISCO! Beautiful views, unique neighborhoods, amazing people, and great spirit; every nook and cranny of this city has its own personality. After all it is San Francisco’s eccentric and downright strange diversity that defines its culture; mixing together trendy urban professionals, hippy chic fashionistas, hipster grit mixologists, … Read more
It had been a long day at Universal Studios when we walked up to the resort door. We were all exhausted, the kids cranky, hungry and expecting to be “bored.” All of a sudden we open the door and the kids barrel into the room, full of newfound energy, then … Read more
The island of St. Barthelemy has always had a strong fashion connection. And well it should, after all it’s part of France. But there’s something fashionable happening right now that’s more than runway chic. The low-key luxury property, Hotel LeVillage, a family owned cluster of 20 cottages and 3 villas … Read more
My first trip to the Caribbean was memorable for many reasons, not the least of which was the hotel. It was in Ocho Rios, Jamaica’s tourist and cruise ship hub, a little over an hour’s drive from Montego Bay yet a world away. The property was enveloped in a jungle-like … Read more
I’d been to Barbados before, and counted it as one of my favorite Caribbean islands. Now having recently been there again, I have to say that it’s not just one of my favorites; it’s my absolute favorite. Credit of course has to go to the island itself—its warmth, its beauty, … Read more
Like much of South Beach, The Winter Haven Hotel is a hot party scene with an exclusive lobby bar serving elegant cocktails to its guests and their friends, some in risqué beach attire. But it’s not flashy, however, like its trendsetting neighbors and possesses a sort of understated elegance that … Read more
The small island of Taketomi, with only 323 inhabitants, is known for having the most well-preserved culture of ancient Okinawa. People here live their lives based on traditions from the past. Knowing this, you may be surprised to hear that it’s home to a contemporary luxury resort, HOSHINOYA Okinawa, where … Read more
Chicago is a great city to visit both for work and for pleasure, with an array of things to see and do – the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, Lake Shore Drive, the Loop, Millennium Park with the centerpiece band shell designed by Frank Gehry and of course, shopping on … Read more
Today, the intersection of the Bowery and Broome Street in Manhattan is perfectly pleasant – busy sidewalks line the streets where stylish pedestrians head to one or more of the many bustling boutiques or restaurants nearby. It’s become a coveted location for real estate agents thanks to its walking … Read more
Miami, a beach paradise known for indulgent nightlife, a fabulous culinary scene and heavenly climate, attracts tourists from all over the globe. It’s a place to indulge your every desire, an often exhausting task in this hedonistic destination, so finding the perfect hotel to retreat from all the play is … Read more
Coffee, rain forests, eco lodges, zip lining, and lizards. These are typically what come to mind when one thinks about Costa Rica. As someone who has traveled to this beautiful country half a dozen times, those used to be my thoughts, too. However, a recent stay at Los Altos De … Read more