Hotels

(credit: Shangri-La Jeddah)The iconic flagship brand of the Shangri-La Group opened its first property in Saudi Arabia, Shangri-La Jeddah. Opened in conjunction with the Kingdom’s inaugural Founding Day, the hotel is just a stone’s throw from the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. Marking a dawn of a new era in the country as a luxury leisure destination, the hotel is situated in the exclusive Burj Assila (Jeddah’s tallest building) and offers 220 new light-filled accommodations, three exceptional restaurants and extensive wellness facilities. Being located in the exclusive Burj Assila - a 64-story, 260-meter tall architectural icon of a building - marked an…

Delaware NorthWith fewer crowds and opportunities to ski, snowshoe, ice skate and even hike, winter is a magical time to visit Yosemite. And while there are a handful of hotels within the park, during peak travel times, including February for the annual ‘Fire Fall’ phenomenon, reservations can be tough to come by for anyone who didn’t book in advance. But for a rustic great wilderness-style hideaway – complete with fire pits, fine restaurants and a signature spa - Tenaya Lodge checks all the boxes in Mariposa County. Get Cozy in an Explorer Cabin Surrounded by incense cedar and sugar pines,…

Robert Frost Suite. Photo by Michael HospeltYour introduction to Poetry Inn’s unrivaled hospitality begins with an email query prior to your stay. Are you celebrating a special occasion? Would you like assistance with dinner reservations? Will you be wine tasting, and if so, what varietal most interests you? It behooves you to be specific, because your exceptionally gracious Poetry Inn hosts aim to please. Mention your favorite cocktail, and it will be served at your specified time. Request a particular newspaper, and it will be delivered with your morning coffee and pastry. Feeling the need for a little extra rest and relaxation? A…

La Concha ResortThe Caribbean has long been a sought-after destination for spring break, as the region’s high season falls between November and April. The springtime in the Caribbean is a welcomed reprieve from the winter blues, as the islands’ climates enjoy hot sunny days. For U.S. travelers, it doesn’t get more seamless than a visit to San Juan, Puerto Rico. With direct flights from most major U.S. airports, it’s a simple journey to reach the tropical paradise. America’s Island of Enchantment is home to soft, white-sand beaches; buzzy restaurants; luxury hotels; and comprehensive wellness and spa amenities. And in San…

Photos Credit: Hard Rock Hotel CancunKnown for its “rock star digs” and one-of-a-kind memorabilia paying homage to some of music's biggest stars, Hard Rock Hotel’s portfolio of properties are a favorite of many travelers wanting luxury with a hearty side of revelry.  The Hard Rock Hotel Cancun is one of the best places to go to let loose, soak up the sun, and forget about your cares amongst the beautiful backdrop of the Caribbean. During our visit this past January, we checked out the property to see how it combined the allure of a high-end hotel with the ease of an all-inclusive.…

Caesars PalaceThe first Caesars Palace off-shoot from Las Vegas brings a dash of ancient Rome to Dubai. Gambling is not on the cards (it is against the law in the UAE), but there are several other diversions, including an award-winning spa, a pristine private beach, several outdoor pools, and a restaurant by Gordon Ramsay. The resort is located on the manmade Bluewaters island, off the coast of Jumeirah Beach Residence, which is accessible by pedestrian bridge. The resort is adjacent to Ain Dubai, the world's tallest observation wheel, which opened in October 2021. The Dubai Marina is mere minutes away,…

Columbia HillenMeeting mannequins dressed in the finest of Parisian haute couture makes for a surprising entrance to the Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg – but then again, it shouldn’t – the luxury hotel being located in the heart of the city’s famous fashion district. Courtesy of the French Federation of Bespoke Tailors, the mannequins, some on glittering gold-colored pedestals, line the marble lobby of the hotel amidst a colorful decor of flowers and plants. Columbia HillenThe expansive lobby itself is as equally elegant as the mannequins, complete as it is with glass ceiling, a grand chandelier and light, airy sofas with colorful cushions.…

Photo courtesy of Old Ground HotelFormerly a jail-house, court-house, town-house and library - the Old Ground Hotel in Clare in western Ireland has certainly played a pivotal role in Irish history. In 1917, for example, this beautifully restored 18th-century manor house was the site of a special convention that launched the political career of Eamon de Valera, recently released from prison after his involvement in the revolution the previous year. Selected as a local candidate, he eventually became the longest-serving President of Ireland.  More recently, after its purchase through a ‘blind auction’ by Allen Flynn in 1995, it became part of the Flynn…

Hôtel Barrière Le Carl GustafLong lauded as the most luxurious place for relaxation and rejuvenation, St. Barths remains at the top of the list for A-listers and jetsetters to vacation for the New Year. With no shortage of superyachts, glamorous beach clubs, gourmet restaurants and upscale boutiques, St. Barths continues to attract the elite traveler because it stands far apart from your average winter destination. For those seeking sun in an intimate and luxurious environment that offers plenty of luxurious diversions, St. Barths is the place to be.  Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf-Guest Room TerraceNaturally, St. Barths offered the perfect…

Columbia HillenAn impressive ornate art nouveau façade trimmed with turquoise metal and decorative floral patterns makes Kimpton St Honoré Paris stand out among other high-end buildings on Boulevard des Capucines. Two vintage wood, brass, iron and mirrored elevators just inside the lobby of the recently-opened 5-star hotel enhance its iconic image even more. Over 100-years old, the elevators are protected by French law, as is its historic façade.  Columbia HillenThis pet-friendly hotel is actually three interconnected buildings, in former times a 1900s ‘Samaritaine de Luxe’ department store for the wealthy of Paris. It has undergone major refurbishment according to the design of renowned…