Warwick International Hotels has announced the acquisition of the 250-room Paradise Island Harbour Resort. The Paradise Island Harbour Resort is a beautiful white sand beach-front resort hotel designed to cater to international tourists, business travelers and visitors from the U.S., Canada, Latin and South America, Europe and through the Caribbean and West Indies. The Paradise Island Harbour Resort consists of 250 rooms, most with a spectacular view over the harbour, access to its own lagoon beach and a very short walk to the ocean beach. This resort is also equipped with two restaurants, a lobby café/bar, a large outdoor swimming pool, outdoor whirlpool and a pool bar. It also features conference facilities, a fitness centre and a kids’ club. A complete and extensive renovation of the r... Read More
Pesach on the Mountain, a luxury Kosher vacation program, is now encouraging would-be vacationers to explore its newly launched Pesach resort options. The company has made available a selection of cozy and intimate suites at Whistler, Canada's Nita Lake Lodge for Passover vacationers. Only a limited number of spots now remain in the Kosher family vacation, and event planners are encouraging interested vacationers to call as soon as possible to ensure that they can reserve a room that meets their needs.... Read More
There's nothing like waking up to a fresh cup of coffee. Guests of The Umstead Hotel and Spa can now enjoy the aroma of brown sugar, cocoa and caramel in their coffee cups thanks to the hotel’s new partnership with Larry’s Beans. The Raleigh-based, 100% Organic, Fair Trade, slow-roasted coffee company’s beans are now being brewed property-wide. This change reflects The Umstead’s ongoing commitment to sustainability.... Read More
The breathtaking penthouse suites at the Corinthia Hotel in London have been recognized among the very best in the world at the prestigious European Hotel Design Awards. Four of the six suites were considered and the ‘The Whitehall Penthouse’ emerged as the winner, according to the judges “the best use of quality finishes, with a design that reflected an old English charm with a contemporary interpretation.” They were particularly impressed by the suite’s “dynamic double height space, delicate balcony detail and breath-taking terrace.” Each suite is designed as a residential space and features bespoke furnishings.... Read More
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. announces that The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu, located in the heart of the capital of Sichuan province, will become the luxury hotel operator's first flag in Southwest China, when it opens in summer 2013.Sichuan is renowned globally as the home of the giant panda, one of China's national treasures, while the city of Chengdu enjoys a rich history dating back over 2,000 years as a cultural and trading hub. The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu, in Tianfu Square, is home to one of the city's largest commercial districts. The hotel will have 353 rooms, including 55 suites, taking interior design cues from the style of a traditional courtyard home which can be found in parts of the old city. "China is already one of our most significant international markets.... Read More
Oberoi Hotels & Resorts has unveiled the recently renovated guests rooms at The Oberoi, Bangalore. The 86 renovated rooms are equipped with technological advances introduced by The Oberoi Group through ‘Oberoi E’nhance,’ a luxury innovation in technology allowing guests to customize a host of in-room amenities through an iPad. The 344-square-foot guest rooms have been stylishly furnished with natural textures including silk, leather, wood and white marble, modern artwork and private balconies. The renovated bathrooms, each complete with modern features including a four fixture glass-walled bath with motorized blinds in white marble, a standalone bath tub, separate shower stall and leather accessories.... Read More
Sonoma Coast’s landmark hotel, Timber Cove Inn, invites you to forage for fungi with California’s world-renowned mycologist David Arora, author of two of the leading books on mushrooms “Mushrooms Demystified” and “All That the Rain Promises and More…” in the stunning back woods of Sonoma County. This is a plentiful hunting ground area and visitors can potentially find chanterelles, porcini, candy caps, coral and oyster mushrooms. After the foraging, guests will come back to the hotel for a discussion on cooking, eating and other mushrooms gathered during the forage.... Read More
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. has announced their collaboration with luxury automotive brand, Mercedes-Benz in China to offer exclusive benefits to members of Ritz-Carlton's frequent stay program—The Ritz-Carlton Rewards. Ritz-Carlton Platinum Rewards members will receive complimentary access to the Mercedes-Benz VIP Lounge and Airport limousines in Beijing and Shanghai. Rewards Members will have the opportunity to attend events such as Fashion Week, Auto Shows and Art Fairs sponsored by Mercedes-Benz.... Read More
The first two projects to debut from the newly formed Geejam Collection are the stunning oceanfront 13-villa Trident Hotel and the landmark Trident Castle that has been converted into a luxury eight-room hotel, opening March 15, 2013. Music veteran and hotelier Jon Baker, partner and co-owner, Steve Beaver and billionaire businessman and Port Antonio native Michael Lee-Chin lead the Geejam Collection. Continuing the momentum begun by Geejam Hotel, established in 2008 and drawing this generation’s movers and shakers to the region, the project will further invigorate tourism in Port Antonio, putting it firmly back on the map as “The Other Jamaica”. The third project is the Blue Lagoon Restaurant & Villas, set to open later in the year 2013.... Read More
Forget your workout gear while on vacation? No problem because Westin Hotels & Resorts and New Balance have created a global program that allows guests to borrow running shoes and gear. What began in only 10 Westin properties has grown to include all of Westin’s 190 properties internationally. The Westin/New Balance gear leading program allows guests to borrow running shoes with disposable insoles, as well as a variety of men’s and women’s New Balance apparel including shorts, shirts and socks for men and shorts, capri pants, shirts, sports bras and socks for women for just $5. Guests also have access to exclusive in-room fitness and equipment-free content from New Balance Fitness Ambassador and celebrity trainer Holly Perkins. As part of the partnership, participating properties provide... Read More
The Spa at El Encanto is scheduled to re-open in Santa Barbara in March 2013 with the appointment of Stephanie Phelan as Director. The Spa at El Encanto will feature seven spacious treatment rooms, including a couples room and a wet treatment room. Guests can revive with an assortment of seasonal, organic and specialty body and facial treatments that enchant as thoroughly as the hotel’s lush setting. Following treatment, pampering can continue at the serene, co-ed relaxation lounge, or with a selection of detox tea that can be enjoyed on the outdoor patio. Nail services will also be provided by expert professionals. Men’s and ladies’ lounges will feature steam rooms, showers, private lockers, vanities, and dressing areas.... Read More
Ashley Hebert and J.P. Rosenbaum, the second “Bachelorette” couple to ever walk down the aisle, shared a dramatic new chapter of their love story with millions of viewers and “Bachelor” Nation when ABC televised their much-anticipated wedding on “The Bachelorette: Ashley and J.P.’s Wedding.” The destination of Scottsdale, Ariz. and partner hotel W Scottsdale are seen during the two-hour special as the couple celebrated their bachelor and bachelorette parties two weeks before their big day. W Scottsdale is the first W Hotel in Arizona and features 224 guest rooms, including 27 suites, with six more suites slated to open in January 2013. The hotel is home to Arizona’s only Bliss® Spa, Sushi Roku restaurant, W Hotels The Store and offers three destination bars — the W Living Room, Shade and... Read More
The Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club in St. Pete, FL has completed a full restoration of four original murals in its restaurant, in celebration of the resort’s 20th re-opening anniversary. The legendary property tapped renowned Florida muralist Robert Schott along with Tom Stovall, to bring four original murals from the Pompeii Room, now known as Marchand’s Bar & Grill, back to their former glory. The re-opening of the Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club in 1992 was a momentous occasion that not only brought an abandoned hotel back to life but helped spark a revitalization of the downtown St. Pete area. In addition to the restored murals, guests can marvel at the carefully preserved Mediterranean Revival architecture such as the lobby’s original vaulted ceiling, quarry glazed tile fl... Read More
La Samanna on the French side of St. Martin has announced its reopening on the heels of an extensive renovation project. As the ultimate in Caribbean luxury, the Orient-Express property now features two new restaurants and a revamped lobby with sea views as a part of the redesigned main building, as well as refurbished suites and rooms. “La Samanna has been a quintessential Caribbean hideaway for more than three decades,” said General Manager Pascal Deyrolle. “While preserving the property’s authenticity is at the forefront of our Orient-Express approach, our doors reopen this season with revamped facilities and offerings designed specifically to bring back the glamour of luxury travel to St. Martin and the Caribbean.”... Read More
Bacara Resort & Spa is giving guests an eco-friendly holiday this year by partnering with renowned artist David Shelton to create a one-of-a-kind Christmas Tree Art Installation. The tree is a playful interpretation of a natural tree, a 12-foot sculpture that combines dramatic contrasts of whimsically-sculpted steel from David Shelton Studios with hand-blown glass by Saul Alcaraz. “This tree is a beautiful reflection of innovation and community collaboration,” said Kathleen Cochran, general manager of Bacara Resort & Spa. “We are honored to partner with David to create something truly magical for our guests that they can enjoy with their loved ones for years to come.”... Read More
The Bentley Hotel, a product of architects Piero Lissoni and Nicoletta Canesi’s creative inspiration, has undergone a complete refurbishment, revitalizing the cool, sleek design that has established it as a meeting point for local and international trendsetters. The Bentley Hotel is representative of Istanbul’s unique location between Europe and Asia, and the revamp has given the hotel a new ambiance while retaining the cool, minimalist appeal achieved by Lissoni and Canesi’s design. As part of the renovation, each room has been given a fresh look, including a new twin-bed option, perfect for friends visiting for a weekend trip to explore all the city has to offer.... Read More
11 Mirrors, the first member of Design Hotels™ in the Ukraine, just celebrated its grand opening. The elegantly designed hotel is a modern day reflection of the city. The hotel mirrors the modern, simplistic aesthetic of the city, rather than the heavy imperial style of the past and gives guests a new way to relax in the heart of the Ukrainian capital. The 49 luxurious rooms and suites offer peace and privacy, with windows overlooking Kiev’s historical center, intimate lighting, dark wood accents, spacious bathrooms and subtle bursts of color. With spa-inspired bathrooms, specially designed work spaces and fully-stocked bar areas, guests can easily relax and recharge to enjoy the nearby sights and sounds that the city has to offer.... Read More
Don't know where to spend the holidays? Pick a place, any place from Ireland to Istanbul and you'll likely find some festive holiday offerings. From food to festivities, participating hotels around the world include: Dukes, St. James, London; Marti Istanbul Hotel, the Lungarno Collection in Florence, The Dolder Grand in Switzerland, The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa, and The Lodge at Doonbeg in County Clare, Ireland.... Read More
Miles away from Florence, in picturesque Italian wine country is Salvatore Ferragamo’s Il Borro estate. Guests at the luxurious property can now look forward not only to accommodations in the villas and suites, but also to a spa that uses natural ingredients grown on the estate. OlivOil (olive oil treatments), are a genuine beauty experience that quenches thirsty, dry skin, thanks to the natural oil gathered from around the estate. Vinotherapy, uses substances found in grapes and grape seeds that in a synergic approach, play an important role in bodily care and the treatment of skin blemishes, allowing for an invigorating skin treatment. The combination of western and eastern treatments guarantees quality and a superior sensorial experience.... Read More
Still putting together your plans for New Year's Eve? Consider heading to Chicago to mark the passage of time and visit the JW Marriott Chicago, a landmark, luxury hotel that has plans to ring in the New Year in style. The property features 610 oversized guestrooms including 29 luxurious suites, 44,000 square-feet of upscale meeting and event space, 36 breakout rooms, an 8,000 square-foot Grand Ballroom and a 6,000 square-foot Burnham Ballroom. In addition, the property features VALEO, a 20,000 square-foot spa and fitness center—an amenity not found in most city center hotels—and The Florentine, a modern Italian, fine dining restaurant. For New Year's, the hotel has introduced special packages and offerings to make sure that you start the year right.... Read More
The iconic Mayfair property, The Dorchester, London, is getting ready for the holidays with a new Family Time offering for the entire clan, tied with their recently debuted NEW suites designed by the award-winning and acclaimed Alexandra Champalimaud. For a stay Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday night, families can enjoy all of the following:... Read More
Chicago architecture is legendary and the new Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago is carrying on the city's tradition by celebrating Jeanne Gang, principal and founder of Studio Gang Architects, who designed the Aqua Tower in which the hotel resides. Design enthusiasts will enjoy the hotel's details, including floor-to-ceiling wallpaper murals of the Chicago skyline on each floor, drawn by local artist Steve Slaske. The building features reclaimed Chicago brick walls and steel staircases in homage to the city’s industrial history, as well as a permanent art gallery featuring Chicago artists.... Read More
Whether you like to venture outdoors or stay inside during your winter vacation, the Hilton hotels in Chicago are offering guests at the Windy City's Hilton locations the chance to pick and choose their favorite winter activities. With Chillcation, accommodations and amenities are optimized with options to either “Chill In” or “Chill Out,” giving guests the choice to relax and enjoy amenities within the hotel property, or head out and experience the wonders of Chicago’s robust roster of wintertime activities. Each participating hotel will offer its own version of the Just Chillin’ package. The Chillcation Park & Stay Package will be featured at each of the nine hotels as well. At each participating property, additional Chillcation packages and offerings will be available.... Read More
London’s Iconic Hotel Café Royal has reopened, ushering in a new era of style and sophistication. Long a meeting place for movers and shakers, the landmark property has been transformed. Featuring 159 rooms and suites (including six historic suites), an array of dining venues, a private members club, high-tech meeting rooms and a Holistic Wellbeing Centre, the Café Royal bears every trait of a 21st century luxury hotel. The sensitive restoration of the rooms by Donald Insall Associates however, seamlessly weaves together original 1865 details with contemporary design and pays homage to the architectural heritage of the building. It is in this meticulous fusion of the traditional and the modern–an inherent characteristic of The Set Hotels–where Café Royal finds its niche.... Read More
Who says there's no winter in Los Angeles? Each year CHILL at W Los Angeles transforms the hotel into a veritable winter wonderland, complete with ice skating rink, modern décor, and seasonal accessories from Z Gallerie. Indulge in signature cocktails and winter bites at the ICE BAR, and partake in amazing winter activities for the whole family. This year's CHILL was designed by veteran LA-based event design and production company Chad Hudson Events, and takes a classic approach to winter whimsy, inspired by the clean and sophisticated look guests experience when they enter the hotel. Each rink-side cabana boasts a palette of white, black, gold and silver which is enhanced by playful, holiday inspired vignettes. Z Gallerie's elegant and dramatic lighting fixtures and accessories give the... Read More
Planning an event in New York? The Conrad New York is rapidly becoming the place to party and has introduced their EPICURATED Culinary Program to seal deal. In partnership with the award-winning chefs of Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group, Epicurated is a new program that gives event clients and their guests access to the flavors and experiences of some of New York’s most influential restaurants, including Union Square Cafe, Gramercy Tavern, Tabla, Blue Smoke, The Modern and Maialino, all in the beautiful setting of The Conrad New York.... Read More
Lumeria Maui, a recognized sanctuary for spiritual and holistic health has announced its 2013 schedule of workshops, retreats and events, with nationally renowned professionals in a variety of disciplines ranging from yoga, to spiritual practices to writing and more. The lineup includes Tracy Anderson, Ram Dass, and Mastin Kipp, all well-known for their contributions to the health and wellness arena. From running barefoot to designing your personal space, the speakers all incorporate Lumeria's dedication to the healing arts.... Read More
Get your holiday cheer fix and do a little festive giving at the same time at The St. Regis San Francisco. The luxury hotel will host Holiday Magic with The Velveteen Rabbit , benefiting the Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund on December 9. “The St. Regis San Francisco prides itself on providing guests and locals with a truly exceptional and luxurious visit, whether it’s sharing celebrated traditions, superb holiday dining or bespoke experiences,” said Toni Knorr, General Manager. “We are excited to partner with Pahlmeyer Winery on the Give and You Shall Receive package, which benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters, as well as reintroduce the cherished Velveteen Rabbit afternoon tea party and performance for families with proceeds benefiting those impacted by Hurricane Sandy.”... Read More
A Photographer’s Journey, inspired by Le Méridien and Air France’s shared commitment to the arts, cuisine and culture is a joint venture that showcases celebrated international photographer Jimmy Cohrssen's never-before-seen photographs of his journey through culturally rich cities and resort destinations such as Istanbul, Shanghai, Bora Bora, Tahiti and Paris. It is an interactive exhibition which allows fans of both brands to click through photographs to cultivate favorites which then be put on display in a final exhibition to be unveiled in New York City on December 11.... Read More
As art lovers get ready to head to Miami for the city's world famous Art Basel event, the JW Marriott Hotel Miami is getting in on the action with “Miami Says ART: the Martin Kreloff Retrospective,” and launch of "Miami Says ART-2" December 3 – 9. The now respected Miami artist brought together some of Miami's artists in 1976, many of whom are now known around the country. The new retrospective is a look back at the original installation and how it predicted Miami's future art scene. The artist Martin Kreloff says: “It was clear to me back in 1976 that I could capture Miami’s cultural leaders each saying “ART” and turn it into the ultimate group show. Today I am thrilled to present this tribute to Miami’s cultural spirit that has blossomed into a world-class art destination. I am so proud... Read More
If you're getting ready to make your travel plans for the coming seasons, check out Kiawah Island Golf Resort, which has just announced its special event calendar for 2012-2013. Upcoming special events include a jazz weekend with GRAMMY®-winning guitarist Earl Klugh, golf and tennis weekends, a women’s retreat, an antique school, and a murder-mystery whodunit. Pick your accommodations at the resort, as there are both private villas and private homes to choose from. Make room in your schedule to relax and indulge at The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, the resort’s AAA Five Diamond/Forbes Five Star-rated oceanfront hotel and spa.... Read More
The St. Regis San Francisco is kicking off the holiday season with plenty of new adventures to warm the hearts of guests. Holiday offerings include Give and You Will Receive—The Ultimate Pahlmeyer Package, a philanthropic holiday St. Regis Aficionado offering for wine enthusiasts; Holiday Magic with The Velveteen Rabbit, a children’s tea party and performance benefiting Hurricane Sandy relief; En Route to Excellence, a spectacular Bentley motoring experience; festive treatments at Remède Spa; delicious bredele from Vitrine’s Chef Romuald Feger; and exquisite pre-fixe holiday menus served at Ame, the hotel’s celebrated Michelin-starred restaurant.... Read More
