by Jennifer on April 10, 2013
An all-white room at the Sofitel Vienna. Image courtesy of the Sofitel Vienna.
There are so many things we love about Vienna – the undeniably chic cafés, the fine dining, all those delectable and flaky sweets, tarts, and cakes that this Austrian city is famous for (FYI, cut back on calories before heading to Vienna so you can unbashfully indulge in all those cakes and tortes with no shame). You’ll spend your days strolling the quaint streets, popping into art museums, books stores and shops along Kaerntnerstrasse (the main shopping strip), but by night you’ll need a soft spot to recharge your batteries, get an amazing night’s sleep and maybe even have a drink or two. You can stay in one of Vienna’s classic, old world hotels, or you can do something completely different and opt for an ultra-mod, boarder line stark, all-white room at the Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom.
First off, this hotel is perfectly located. You’ll be steps away from the Schwedenplatz 2 tram station that runs a loop around the city centre (taking to all the major hotspots, cafes, museums and best shopping) and across the Danube canal. It also happens to be located just across the canal from Mott am Fluss (one of Vienna’s hottest daytime cafés and bars by night — stop by for a latte at the very least). Behind the hotel is a growing mix of up-and-coming designer shops and a neighbourhood that is on the rise. It’s the perfect mix of tradition in the city centre and trendy, artsy neighbourhoods.
But what makes this hotel so unique in Vienna is the crisp rooms decked in white from top to bottom and floor to ceiling windows (for some impressive panoramic views of Vienna’s multi-coloured rooftops). You’ll be starting each day with a clean slate. Designed by Jean Nouvel, it’s unlike any other hotel in Vienna’s city centre (where you’ll find more traditional European hotels) and was inspired by fashion, art, architecture, and is a reinterpretation of Vienna’s famed St Stephens Cathedral. If you’re in the mood/lucky enough you might make it into one of the hotel’s very few domineering all black rooms, or a soothing all grey room (the hotel has 182 rooms and 26 suites, with mostly white rooms and a select few black and grey rooms). An all-white room might not always jive with tourists. It definitely has an edge and a design feel too it, but they also have a surprisingly warm and inviting feeling about them (maybe it’s the skyline or maybe it’s the fact that it seems so fresh and clean). READ MORE
by Jennifer on March 6, 2013
With winter stretching on just far too long (we’re so ready to swap our Burberry riding boots for some chic Michael Kors loafers), it’s no wonder so many people flock to tropical Caribbean and Mexican destinations in March for spring break. Just because we’re not in college or university anymore doesn’t mean we still don’t need a break — vegging out pool side, drinking frosty margaritas in a cabana and seriously doing nothing at all. We just don’t want to do it with swim-up bars, jam-packed large resorts and with loads of students easing away school stress. These places definitely have their place, but we’re looking for something a little more chic and a little more secluded. Here are our top four places to escape this spring break — from your everyday and from the crowds.
A suite at Hotel French Coco. Photography courtesy of Hotel French Coco.
Hotel French Coco, Martinique, Caribbean
We can almost guarantee that you won’t finding a slew of college students drinking in the bar at this chic Creole-inspired boutique hotel on the French island of Martinique. With 17 quaint suites (by quaint we mean spacious with terraces — not bad, no?) and only two floors, you’ll feel more like you’re visiting one of Richard Branson’s many island homes rather than checking in at a hotel. You won’t hear pumping music here either — situated on Martinique’s Atlantic coast, its spot along the sandy shore is also shared with a tiny fishing village named Tartane and a protected natural reserve. The intimate beach, La Brèche, is also perfect for sipping chilled drinks before dinner or reading a good book (see some of our best vacation reads here). And when the motto is “On holiday it is no longer your responsibility to look after your well being, but ours,” it’s the ideal spot to rid yourself of any winter blues and stress you may have.
Where to Find:
Hotel French Coco
33 La Distillerie
Tartane, 97 220, Trinite
hotelfrenchcoco.com
The pool by night at Casa Bonita. Photography courtesy of Casa Bonita.
Casa Bonita, Dominican Republic, Caribbean
Let’s face it — flights to the Dominican Republic are sometimes at such amazing rates, it’s hard to pass up on the chance to get to this ever-popular Caribbean island when you’re in serious need of vitamin D. This tropical hideaway is in the south-west, secluded corner of the island (that equals a peaceful, quite vacation) and has just 12 rooms (all with balconies that over look the jungle or the sea) a luxe spa and a restaurant (which uses produce from the on-site garden). The best part? Requesting a special spa treatment customized just for your body’s needs at the Tanama Eco Spa nestled in the surrounding trees.
Where to Find:
Casa Bonita
Km 17 Carretera De La Costa
Barahona, Dominican Republic
casabonitadr.com
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by Pretty Chic Travel on October 24, 2012
We’ve been longtime followers of Christine Kirk, who is known in the Twitterverse as @LuxuryPRGal. With almost 23,000 followers, this social media pro is a serial Tweeter, sending out dozens of Tweets a day on topics ranging from food to travel and technology. As the Founder and CEO of the California-based Social Muse Communications, it’s her job to live, breathe, eat and sleep, social media, so really it’s all in a day’s work.
Between advising her hospitality and travel clients on social media and PR, Christine is also a food and travel writer, regularly contributing to publications including CBS Los Angeles and JustLuxe. Plus if you’ve ever used the hashtag #luxchat, you should thank Christine because it was her who founded the quarterly Twitter chat, which intersects luxury brands with social media.
We were thrilled to have the chance to chat with this luxury travel expert to find out her must-haves, favourite experiences and of course, what she wears along the way. READ MORE
by Pretty Chic Travel on April 18, 2012
As the Strategic Manager of Finance and Operations for Trufflepig Travel, Diane Ring gets to dabble in a little bit of everything — from marketing to balancing the books — not to mention jetting to and from Paris on a regular basis (they have an office there). For those of you who aren’t familiar, Trufflepig Travel is a luxury trip planning company who specializes in designing custom trips for clients around the globe. Unlike other trip planning services, Trufflepig only services a select number of countries (currently it’s 31) of places they know — and know well. Plus they also rely on experts on the ground in various locations to keep them up-to-snuff on what’s new in that destination.
Diane (who’s also recently engaged to a pilot, none-the-less), may be saying “I do” close to home, but is currently planning two honeymoons. One right after the wedding and a second later in the year, either in South Africa or Brazil. We would too especially having the best information right at her fingertips! We recently chatted to Diane about her travel must-haves and latest adventures (she just hit the slopes in Whistler), so read on to get the scoop! READ MORE
by Stephanie on January 18, 2012
Jessica Simpson liked to travel with Daisy.
Most pet owners will tell you they hate leaving their furry friend at home while on vacation. And for the most part travelling with your pet can feel like more hassle than its worth, especially if you’re flying the skies, however, with more and more hotels including all W Hotels and all Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts being animal-friendly, it makes it that much easier to bring along your pooch. If you are planning on jetting with your pet, you do need to be prepared, so we’ve gathered 6 tips on how to handle airplane travel with an animal.
1. Visit the Vet
Even if your pet is in good health, it’s not a bad idea to bring your pet to a vet prior to the flight. Not all animals are meant for air travel, so a quick consultation isn’t a bad idea. Many airlines suggest against tranquilizing your pet, but if you’re concerned, the vet can determine if this is a good idea and prescribe sedation. Also, if you’re travelling on a U.S. airline you’ll need to have documentation from your vet indicating your pet has a clean bill of health — no more than 10 days from the day you fly, so don’t book that appointment too early. READ MORE
by Jennifer on June 14, 2011
Although we wish we could, we can’t always jet off to a far off destination for a weekend. Sigh. But that doesn’t mean we can’t get our travel fix by staying in our hometown of Toronto. We adore our beautiful city, but what we love the most is the selection of luxe spas that we can beckon on at a moment’s notice. And for all those fellow Canadians making a sunny summer vacation to the country’s largest city, be sure to treat yourself to one of these amazing spas as part of your trip. Here are our top picks for the ultimate spa experience in Toronto.
Photo courtesy of Old Mill Inn and Spa
Old Mill Inn and Spa
Can’t make it across the pond this year? Treat yourself like British royalty at this west-end spa set in a Tudor-style atmosphere. Converted into a high-end hotel and spa, the old mill is complete with a garden terrace, spectacular afternoon tea and elegant spa facilities. While there be sure to ask for the Tudor Calming Facial (suited for sensitive skin, it’s ideal for a traveller), and guys can also get a treat with the Gentleman’s Hot Towel Facial.
oldmilltoronto.com
Photo courtesy of Hammam Spa
The Hammam Spa
Travel through Turkey, Spain and Morocco, all in one day. The Hammam Spa located in Toronto’s trendy King West area, is like taking a trip to the hot springs in the Mediterranean — the traditional steam room is infused with essential oils to help ease away any stress before your treatment (be sure to arrive 30 minutes before, so you can really take advantage of the chilled vibe). Our favourite treatment? The Hammam facial with Dermalogica products.
hammamspa.ca READ MORE
by Jennifer on June 8, 2011
We just spent a few days in Dublin and were lucky enough to check out some really fab hotels. Dublin may be a small city (you won’t find any sky scrapers here) but what they may lack in size they certainly don’t lack in style when it comes to places to rest and relax. Here are our top four picks for the best places to get your beauty sleep in Dublin.
The Dylan Hotel. Photo courtesy of Justin Harrington.
The Dylan
Just outside of the city centre is a five-star boutique hotel that offers up luxury in an arty setting, and unmatched service. The interior is a mix of Victorian and contemporary styles, the rooms are spacious, and if you’re willing to shell out just a bit extra, ask for the Dylan experience suite … where there are even TVs in the washrooms. And be sure to sip on a cocktail or two in the hotel bar’s terrace where they serve up some of the best non-beer drinks the city has to offer. Try the Lemon, Lavender & Basil Mojito – it’s simply delish.
The Dylan Hotel
Eastmoreland Place, Dublin 4, +353 1 6603000
dylan.ie
A room in the Fitzwilliam Hotel. Photo courtesy of the Fitzwilliam.
The Fitzwilliam
The Fitzwilliam couldn’t be in a better location … directly across from Dublin’s large green space St. Stephen’s Green it offers up gorgeous views (especially at sunset). Even better is that it is right next to the main pedestrian shopping strip, Grafton Street, and only a hop away from the touristy the Temple Bar area, old Dublin and a slew of chic restaurants and boutiques. The comfy rooms are decked in rich greens and deep purples, red and crisp creams, and many with balconies overlooking the park.
Fitzwilliam Dublin Hotel
St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, +353 1 478 7000
fitzwilliamhoteldublin.com READ MORE
by Jennifer on March 14, 2011
Park City, Utah has some of the best skiing you can find in North America and its world famous slopes played host to the winter Olympics in 2000. But whether you’re s skiing novice or pro, one thing you will be sure to find is luxurious lodging where you can sip hot cocoa, indulge in a spa day, or just take in the spectacular scenery. On a recent trip we scoped out the best spots to kick up your skis and relax in Park City.
Image courtesy of Montage Deer Valley
Montage Deer Valley
If you’re looking for luxury and seclusion this is your best bet. The Montage opened its doors in December 2010 and is located near the top of Deer Valley Resort in the Empire Canyon area. It’s basically at the end of Mountain Road, offering it a secluded feeling, but it’s really only about a five-minute drive away from the core of Park City. It’s a true ski in-ski out resort with access to high-speed chair lifts, ski/bike concierge, valet service and an amazing spa for an après-ski massage. But what we love the most are the spacious foyers, lobby and super comfortable and stylish rooms. Despite being at capacity, you never feel like this hotel is crowded, even when you chill in the large, but cozy bar area with live music (hint, sneak inside the library room to sip cocktails by a fireplace).
montagedeervalley.com
Waldorf Astoria, Park City
You really get the feeling of this hotel as soon as you enter the main lobby. With a huge fireplace, large dangling chandeliers, and plush leather couches it’s easy to imagine spending an afternoon soaking up the view through the floor to ceiling windows. With 175 guestrooms and a 5,000 square foot Penthouse Suite the room options are pretty much limitless, but even if you don’t stay here a trip to their Golden Door spa for a two hour massage (yes … two hours of massage bliss!) is definitely in order when visiting Park City.
parkcitywaldorfastoria.com READ MORE
by Jennifer on January 10, 2011
The island of Grenada quickly became one of our favourite Caribbean destinations after a visit in November — with amazing food (they are known for their nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and allspice production), stunning mountainous views, lush terrain and the friendliest people, it’s hard not to fall in love with what is dubbed as the Spice Island. But what really had us sold were the incredible hotels. There’s no shortage of spots to stay, whether you’re looking for charm, luxury or solitude. Here are our top three picks for where to stay in Grenada.
Image courtesy of Spice Island Beach Resort
Luxe: Spice Island Beach Resort
If it’s good enough for Oprah and other A-listers, you know it’s at the height of luxury. The family-run resort is on an eight-acre that is a mix of lemon and almond trees and the sandy Grande Anse Beach just outside your suite. Many suits have their own plunge pools and private entrances to the beach. Not to mention the luxe restaurant where you will dine on some of the most delicious food on the island made with local ingredients, and a spacious spa. It’s the ultimate spot on the island to relax and still feel like you’re wrapped in elegance and luxury at the same time.
Spice Island Beach Resort
PO Box 6, Grand Anse Beach, St. George’s, Grenada; 473-444-4258
spiceislandbeachresort.com READ MORE
by Jennifer on November 22, 2010
One of the best things about London is that no matter what type of traveler you are, what kind of trip you’re on, or what you plan on doing in the city (shop, dine, relax, hit the clubs) there’s a hotel that will suit your needs. Here are four of our favourite hotels that we return to time and time again.
The Metropolitan Hotel: The trendy hotel
The Metropolitan Hotel is the hot spot in London for the uber trendy set. Its contemporary feel and striped back look sets the stage for a slightly younger crowd. The Park Lane location puts the Metropolitan right at the edge of the Mayfair and Knightsbridge neighbourhoods filled with high-end shops, bars, pubs and fine dining. Or you can get the private treatment right in the hotel with their members only Met Bar (As a hotel guest, you get a pass into the swanky bar where you must try a martini).
metropolitan.london.como.bz
The Dorchester Hotel and Spa: The traditionalist hotel
If you’re looking for a chic hotel that still has all of England’s charm, look no further than The Dorchester Hotel and Spa. It oozes British tradition, from the floral details and ornate furniture and dark woods, to the high tea and the location in Mayfair. The suits are a wonderful mix of traditional antique-looking furniture with modern twists of art deco and marble, coming from the hotel’s 1930s beginnings, and views of either the landscaped terraces at the hotel or stunning views of Hyde Park. If you don’t stay here, a visit is still in order, for afternoon tea or a trip to the spa (we recommend the Carol Joy Diamond Facial).
thedorchester.com READ MORE
