sarah on November 18th, 2009

Welcome to the latest Three+Three on The Suite Life blog. This week we are bringing you three great deals from three top destinations in the Rocky Mountains. As winter begins to lay its snowy cover, there’s no better romantic and adventurous getaway than Colorado’s luxury mountain resorts.

Enjoy an escape to Telluride, a snowy city romp in Denver, or a luxurious lodge in Bachelor Gulch. Each deal comes with exclusive Perfect Escapes Perks, so pick your deal and your destination, and make your escape.

capella-telluride

Breakfast & Parking at Capella Telluride, Telluride, CO – From $195/night

Nestled in the spectacular town of Mountain Village, Capella Telluride showcases Colorado’s unspoiled grandeur. An inspired vision of European alpine architecture is rendered with native Colorado stone and warm timbers with the convenience of a ski-in/ski-out location and world-class amenities.

Book any Capella Telluride stay with Perfect Escapes and you’ll receive: Daily breakfast for two, complimentary valet parking for one car, and upgrade, early check-in, and late check-out on availability.

brown-palace

Bed & Breakfast at Brown Palace Hotel & Spa, Denver, CO – From $143/night

Presidents, rock stars, executives, and discerning travelers all choose the one-of-a-kind ambiance of the historically luxurious Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, which is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Denver’s financial and cultural district.

Book any Brown Palace stay with Perfect Escapes and you’ll receive exclusive amenities that include: Daily breakfast for two, complimentary internet access, and upgrade, early check-in, and late check-out on availability.

ritz-carlton-bachelor-gulch

Peace of Mind at Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, Beaver Creek, CO – From $254/night

The grand lodge style of The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch exudes authentic Rocky Mountain luxury and captures the essence of the surrounding national forest. Guests enjoy an unforgettable escape bathed in luxury in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

Book the Peace of Mind rate with Perfect Escapes and you’ll receive: Daily breakfast for two and special savings that increase with the length of your stay- Book 3 nights pay for 2, book 5 nights pay for 3, or book 7 nights and pay for just 4.

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sarah on November 16th, 2009

adour-alain-ducasse

There are less and less opportunities for us to relax these days, but luckily Thanksgiving still demands that we step back, unwind and enjoy our friends and family. That is, unless you are the designated Thanksgiving meal preparer in which case the days, even weeks before Thanksgiving are filled with extra stress and little time to actually enjoy the upcoming holiday.

That’s why many luxury hotels are offering their own gourmet Thanksgivings. Serving up delicious and inventive cuisine and also doing all the prep work and clean up, these luxury hotel Thanksgivings will truly have you giving thanks for the opportunity to relax and celebrate with your closest family and friends, instead of spending the meal running back and forth to the kitchen. Whether a traditional buffet, Asian-inspired, or multi-course meal, each of these hotel restaurant Thanksgiving meals are sure to impress even the most discerning holiday eaters.

The Setai Miami
– Head south for Turkey Day to enjoy a meal that has both Asian-inspired and traditional options.

Adour Alain Ducasse at the St. Regis NYC
– Impeccable French cuisine for an indulgent holiday feast.

L’Atelier de Joel Robouchon at Four Seasons NYC – Another French feast from the famed chef in a classic setting.

Café des Architectes at Sofitel Chicago Water Tower – Enjoy a four-course meal of modern French brasserie cuisine in this chic Chicago destination.

The Grand Del Mar in San Diego – Whether you prefer a Thanksgiving brunch, a three-course meal at Amaya or a luxurious four-course meal at delicious Addison, The Grand Del Mar has plenty to choose from for a luxurious Turkey Day.

Whist at Viceroy Santa Monica – Enjoy a Thanksgiving near the beach with a modern twist at the Viceroy. An interpretation of French seasonal cuisine turns into a delicious Thanksgiving buffet in a truly fun and unique boutique setting.

Luce at InterContinental San Francisco – Enjoy a New American feast for Thanksgiving that incorporates San Francisco’s penchant for fresh local ingredients and a clean, comfortable atmosphere.

Have another Holiday Hotel favorite? Share it with us!

Find luxury hotel deals in your holiday destination at Perfect Escapes.

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sarah on November 12th, 2009

villa-deste-lake-como
There are many ways to define a luxury hotel. Whether modern, boutique, or classic, luxury hotels transport guests to a heightened state of pampering and relaxation. Perhaps some of the most incredible experiences are at the classic luxury hotel jewels of Europe where décor, history and service come together to create an experience truly unlike any other. Whether part of a well-known luxury chain or an independent property, these are some of Europe’s finest luxury hotels.

Villa d’Este in Lake Como, Italy – A lavish, celebrity and dignitary destination on Lake Como.

Le Meurice in Paris, France – An elegant 18th century hotel centrally located near the most famous attractions in Paris.

Claridges in London, England – This popular Art Deco hotel also boasts luxurious cuisine with a Gordon Ramsay restaurant.

Ca’ Sagredo in Venice, Italy
– A timeless beauty facing out onto the Canals of Venice.

Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat in St Jean Cap Ferrat, France - A perfect blend of traditional luxury with modern conveniences and a truly amazing spa in the French Riviera.

The Adlon in Berlin, Germany – A large and impressive luxury hotel with fine dining and traditional elegance at every corner.

Four Seasons, Geneva in Geneva, Switzerland – This longstanding jewel among luxury hotels in Geneva commands impressive lake views and a history of impeccable service.

Celtic Manor Resort in Newport, Whales
– This castle-like resort encompasses 2,000 acres which include impressive golf, spa, and dining facilities.

Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal in Budapest, Hungary – Luxury travelers flock to this grand hotel in historic Budapest for the incredible luxury surroundings and restored 19th century spa.

The Hotel Metropol in Moscow, Russia – An architecturally and historically significant gem, this opulent hotel is grand in look and feel.

Have you had an amazing experience at a luxury European hotel? Let us know what tops your list.

Read the full article at Forbes Travel.

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sarah on November 10th, 2009

jet-lag-sign

For most people, jet lag from international travel is inevitable. Yet there are many ideas out there about how to ease jet lag, if not eliminate it all together. Some are scientifically qualified, while others are simply put into practice by avid travelers themselves, yet all seem to have at least some affect on how we fare after we fly.

A blog post from the New York Times looks into a few methods to help ease jet lag after an intense schedule of international travel. However, we at the Suite Life want to know what methods you use for preventing and curing jet lag after a hectic business trip or lengthy international vacation.

When it comes to jet lag the best thing one can do according to the blog post is to be proactive. Rather than rushing around taking care of last minute trip preparations and purchases, try to get at least 8 hours of sleep for the few days before your flight. That way, experts say you’ll have some extra hours stored up to help you cope with the sudden loss of time.

Next, to start preventing jet lag before it starts adjust your plane behavior. Rather than loading up on alcoholic beverages (even when they are free in business and first class) stick to water and fresh fruit. Get up during the flight and walk around and stretch your body and do whatever relaxes you whether it’s sleeping, reading, or watching a movie.

It has been said for years that when you do cross into a vastly different time zone that it is important to try and stay awake and adjust as quickly as possible to the local time. Once you land, if a nap is needed make it a short one. It is also important to get outside, to let your circadian rhythm pick up on the natural cues of sunlight and time of day.

But even the best methods can’t eliminate jet lag all together. It’s a predictable sacrifice to the joys of international travel that we all must put up with. However, some hotels are helping guests ease seamlessly into their new time zone by creating jet lag-friendly rooms. These special accommodations incorporate blackout curtains, special blue light therapy, relaxing snacks, and special showers (Westin Hotels pioneered this concept Source: MSNBC) all meant to fight off the jet lag zombie state that often steals too much travel time.

If you have a secret cure for easing jet lag, please share it here and help adventurous luxury travelers everywhere set their internal clock to local time in a flash.

Find luxury hotels around the world at Perfect Escapes.

London

Paris

Dubai

Hong Kong

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sarah on November 6th, 2009

jamaica-plain-boston
In cities across the country, secret neighborhoods are popping up filled with unique bars, restaurants, music, and shops that go off the beaten path and create a new urban experience. Authenticity reigns where locals take risks and travelers are rewarded with booming new enclaves worth a visit.

Travel+Leisure researched some of these hidden urban gems just off the cuff from some major U.S. destinations. Do you have a favorite secret neighborhood? Share it with your fellow luxury travelers looking for something new…

Tenderloin, in San Francisco, CA – The Tenderloin may be be the epicenter of homelessness and drugs in San Francisco, but it’s also developing into a secret enclave of hot spots situated in between two main areas of the city. Swanky bars, a speakeasy, new hole-in-the-wall dining spots, and some amazing Church music are adding welcome change to the area.

Pilsen, in Chicago, IL – A lively neighborhood now known as much for its art galleries and taco trucks as it was previously known for its gangs.

Prospect Heights, in Brooklyn, NY – A neighborhood once without much is new a hub of arts and culture with dance parties, breweries, film screenings and more, all with authentic local flare.

Wynwood Arts District, in Miami, FL – Once an abandoned warehouse district, now shedding its gloom with upcoming galleries, fashion designers, and a beautiful shore side setting.

Downtown, in Kansas City, MO – There used to be very little here, but with the investment of the Sprint sports and entertainment center and a district of restaurants and clubs, this area is booming with life.

Roosevelt Row, in Phoenix, AZ – Boarded up houses have been reclaimed by artists creating an art-filled historic town with new life and activities.

East End, in Austin, TX – What was once a drug-infested barrio is now another cool scene for eating, drinking, and cowboy chic in one of Texas’ most fun cities.

Jamaica Plain, in Boston, MA – A multicultural neighborhood that has cleaned up as money and more people move in. Plenty of green space, a local brewery and a club-meets-bowling lounge make this a popular new local haunt.

Belmont, in Charlottesville, VA – This historic town from the 1890’s has been restored and improved with great new eateries and local music venues.

Cabbagetown, in Atlanta, GA – Affordable housing meets new condo developments in this upcoming area that boasts local flavors in food and music.

Collinwood, in Cleveland, OH - An immigrant neighborhood turned boho chic with independent stores and specialty food shops all mixed together.

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sarah on November 3rd, 2009
Foto Light on Flickr

Foto Light on Flickr

With the buzz of the winter holidays before us, let’s take a deep breath and a moment to relax and reminisce about travels past. What recent getaway or long ago vacation makes you nostalgic?

If you haven’t already, Perfect Escapes is inviting you to take the plunge and join its photo pool on Flickr. Our Flickr photo pool is the place to share your perfect escapes: Posh hotel pictures, idyllic travel images, and tales detailing all of your luxury hotel experiences and adventures. Whether you visit a luxury hotel or just walk by one, post your five-star travel memories here. Each month we look for images matching a particular travel-related topic or theme and announce it right here (and on our Flickr photo pool page, too). From the new submissions we receive, one lucky photog with then have his or her image featured on next month’s Suite Life Blog Flickr photo pool post!

For our November photo challenge, we want to be moved by your timeless memories of perfect escapes past. Steep us in sepia toned images of bygone trips to far away places. Show us beautiful black-and-white photographs that will give us peace and pause … Wherever your journeys have taken you, we want to see your best sepia and black-and-white shots.

Find luxury hotels around the world at Perfect Escapes.

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sarah on October 27th, 2009
Photo Credit: Hotel Chatter

Photo Credit: Hotel Chatter

When we travel, currency is often a universal language. A small tip here and there can get us better service, seats and information. We tip the valet, bellman, tour guide, taxi driver, but what about the housekeeper?

There has long been debate as to whether housekeeping services should be given tips, and if so, how much. The first part of that question has largely been answered, with the majority of people saying housekeeping staff should receive a tip for their work. However people rushing out of their hotel rooms for meetings or sightseeing don’t often remember to leave some currency behind every day.

In addition, very few people can agree to a standard on how much tip should be left for housekeepers. Perhaps a few dollars, a certain percentage, maybe a sliding scale depending on service and length of stay? Tips are at the discretion of the tip giver, so perhaps there shouldn’t even be a set rule, as every traveler has a varying degree of needs and messiness.

An L.A. Times article states that $1-$3 is sufficient per day, at any level of hotel establishment. However, if you ask those who clean at 5-star hotels, they said guests should leave $5-$10 a day. The article also discussed where a tip should be left in the room and how- with a note of thanks.

Here at The Suite Life, we want to know – what are your practices when it comes to tipping housekeeping staff? How much, how often, and why? Let us know what you think and we’ll share with our luxury travelers so everyone can be prepared the next time they check-in.

Find luxury hotel deals around the world at Perfect Escapes.

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sarah on October 22nd, 2009

leela-kempinski-kovalam-beach

Each culture has a unique history and practices to cure the body from ailments. Keeping one’s body in balance emotionally, physically, and spiritually can create a healthier you. These eight destinations have special treatments, methods, and luxury surroundings to help you achieve the utmost relaxation on your vacation.

Japan – Zen gardens aren’t just pretty to look at, the famous Japanese meditation gardens are complimented by nature walks, purifying waters and traditional meditation, which will truly pamper and relax you into a better state of well-being. Stay at: The Windsor Toya Resort and Spa, Hokkaido.

Hawaii – Sweet smells, rolling ocean waves and island music are enough to make almost anyone enjoy a peaceful escape. But for those looking for something more there’s the ancient practice of Lomilomi. Thought to improve circulation, balance and healing, this Hawaiian practice is a pampering way to feel good again. Stay at: The Fairmont Orchid, Big Island.

Mexico – Ancient Mayan culture had a variety of medicinal treatments to balance a body’s “life force”. When you’re feeling out of sorts, re-center with hot-stone massages, sweat baths, and more at Mexico’s luxury resorts and healing centers. Stay at: Habita Hotel, Mexico City.

Jordan – The Dead Sea has long been a source of healing for its salt waters and mineral-rich mud. Both Jordan and Israel have plenty of luxury resorts that will pamper you with Dead Sea excursions and treatments as well as with comfortable accommodations and delicious, fresh, and healthy meals. Stay at: In Jordan, the Evason Ma’In Hot Springs & Six Senses Spa, in Israel at Le Meridien Dead Sea.

France – So many of the best things come from France: Fashion, wine, cheese, and baguettes, just to name a few. Realizing the benefits of the sea, there are amazing spas along the Normandy coast that infuse sea water, seaweed and other elements into healing treatments for all ailments. Stay at: Chateau La Cheneviere, Normandy.

California – The brilliant sunshine alone is enough to cure any blues, but go the extra step and enjoy the variety of natural healing elements California has to offer. From Napa’s Calistoga mineral springs, to Big Sur’s geothermal springs, nature walks, art and mediation workshops and more, California has plenty to soothe and revive a tired soul. Stay at: Ventana Inn and Spa, Big Sur.

India – Traditional Ayurveda medicine in India treats ailments of the body with a variety of natural and plant based treatments. Increase your immunity and your center with this classic system or take yourself to an Ashram to learn the disciplined meditation and yoga practices coveted by people all over the world. Stay at: The Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach, Kerala.

Turkey – Turkish bath houses can cleanse, restore and invigorate the weariest traveler. Spend some time soaking in the baths, steaming, scrubbing or being massaged- arranged through luxury spas such as the one at the Four Seasons Istanbul at the Bosphorus.

See the full article at MSNBC travel.

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sarah on October 21st, 2009

Welcome to the latest edition of the Three+Three on the Suite Life Blog. This week we are bringing you three great deals from three top destinations across the country, each with unique perks. Whether you want Bed &Breakfast in Miami, Perfect Savings in Los Angeles, or extra perks to Get More on Madison in New York, pick your deal and your destination, and make your escape.

national-hotel

Bed & Breakfast – National Hotel, Miami from $209 per night

The National Hotel epitomizes the mood and décor of the 1940s, redefined with a modern panache. Enter a world of pure grace, elegance, and style at this landmark hotel in Miami’s South Beach.

Book the Bed & Breakfast deal and you’ll receive complimentary American breakfast for two each day. Plus book any stay at the National Hotel with Perfect Escapes and you’ll receive a welcome amenity, early check-in and late check-out (on availability), and room upgrade (on availability).

hollywood-roosevelt

Perfect Savings – Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, from $159 per night

A newly revamped Thompson Hotel, the legendary Hollywood Roosevelt is a playground for Hollywood’s brightest stars. When you book the Perfect Savings offer you’ll receive: 20% off the best-rate for any length of stay.

Plus book any stay at the Hollywood Roosevelt with Perfect Escapes and receive: Guaranteed late check-out, early check-in and room upgrade (based on availability), and welcome amenity upon arrival.

roger-williams-room1
Get More on Madison – Hotel Roger Williams, from $270 per night

Quietly confident and cosmopolitan yet colorful and fun, the newly redesigned Hotel Roger Williams is a Midtown hotel that dares to be different. A well-kept secret among savvy travelers, Hotel Roger Williams features gracious hospitality in an exclusive setting.

Book the Get More on Madison offer, or any stay at Roger Williams at Perfect Escapes and you’ll receive: Complimentary room upgrade (on availability), a waiver of the $15 nightly service fee which includes complimentary wireless internet, a bottle of champagne in your room, and early check-in and late check-out (on availability).

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2010-olympics

The 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver are only a few short months away, and now is the time to book your mid-winter trip to experience the impressive sights and sports of the Olympics.

Forbes Traveler offered some tips on getting the most of an Olympic trip to Vancouver. Starting with your arrival, don’t be afraid to take the Canada Line of the Skytrain which can get you from the airport to downtown Vancouver in 30 minutes.

The Games run from February 12 to March 1st, and you can bet the mass exodus of athletes and visitors on the last day will create some real congestion on the roadways and in the airports. So why not stay an extra day or two and explore the sites you may have missed while watching the games. Vancouver and Victoria Islands are beautiful quick getaways with plenty to explore. Or extend your trip further and make your way to Blackcomb, for some of the finest skiing available.

During the Olympic portion of your visit, don’t miss the Live Site, 2 big sites set up for all things Olympics from sponsorship areas, huge big screen TV’s and more. Remember to book dinner reservations way in advance as the best tables are likely to book up early, and Vancouver has wonderful dining to indulge in.

While you’re out exploring Vancouver’s dining scene in between Games, check out some of the many various art exhibitions coinciding with the Olympics. Arts of all kinds are getting in the Olympic spirit with concerts, dance, films, and more.

If you are passionate for one specific winter sport, plan accordingly. The Olympic arenas for each sport vary widely, so plan early and stake out your spot so you don’t miss you favorites. Whistler will be the spot for skiing, ice hockey will be downtown and snowboarding in North Shore, to name a few…

Most important, find a luxury hotel that is nice and cozy to come back to after an active day of snow and sport. Some of the area’s top hotels are:

The Fairmont Empress
Opus Hotel
Metropolitan Hotel Vancouver Breakfast of Champions deal from C$195/night
The Oswego Hotel - Victoria
Pan Pacific Mountainside Whistler
Four Seasons Whistler Stay Longer deal from C$395/night
Find more luxury hotels in Vancouver at Perfect Escapes.

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