Hotels

Tim CotroneoDid the brains behind the Pelican Grand Beach Resort’s $7 million dollar renovation include a team of mind readers? That is a question you may ask when you realize the most important point on your hotel priority checklist pass with flying colors.  A beachfront location right on the ocean: Check. Spacious rooms with a private balcony: Check. A luxurious Swedish spa: Check. How about multiple dining options: Check!  When Noble House Hotels & Resorts purchased Pelican Grand Beach Resort, their goal was to exceed guest expectations at every turn. In other words, surpass not just great expectations, but grand…

Columbia HillenBelfast’s most renown hotel, the Europa, is doing what it does best - reflecting the mood of confidence in the city as it rises in the tourism rankings. Opened in 1971, it was once considered the most bombed hotel in Europe during the so-called ‘Troubles’ in Northern Ireland when journalists were plentiful, but visitors rare. Now, with 272 rooms, this soaring downtown property is a shining symbol of resurgence. Columbia HillenA member of the Hastings Hotels group, which operates seven hotels across Northern Ireland, it occupies a prime location within a five-minute walk of Royal Avenue, the city’s main shopping street,…

The Principal MadridOffering Madrid’s most extraordinary views and central location, The Principal Madrid is the perfect destination for bleisure travelers. The Executive Rooms feature work desks, free high-speed WiFi, international plug adapters, Bluetooth sound system as well as a communications media hub. The high ceilings, scenic views, and sophisticated décor turn the space into the perfect meeting room and refuge. A private fitness area and luxurious spa treatments are available at the hotel for a relaxing experience after a busy day.  Situated on Gran Vía, renowned historical and cultural attractions are just a few steps from, allowing guests to enjoy a pleasant…

el Prado Tapas Bar LoungePalo Alto is well-known as the world's epicenter of innovation and technology, but is not necessarily known as a vacation spot. It should be. With its abundance of fine restaurants, boutique shopping, recreational activities, Mediterranean climate, and unique energy, Palo Alto is always inspiring. And though local hotels tend to cater primarily to business travelers and college campus visitors, those seeking a luxurious getaway have choices, such as the elegant el Prado Hotel in the heart of Palo Alto’s thriving downtown district. At 520 Cowper Street, el Prado is centrally located and just around the corner from the…

Jill WeinleinDriving out to Palm Springs during the summer, the car's temperature gauge can reach up to 107 degrees or even higher. Getting out of the car, and walking into the lobby of Azure Sky, you will forget about the heat as the temperature and atmosphere immediately changes to cool. The front screen entry, adjacent to the lobby was created by Palm Spring's Cioffi Architects and built by Hoffman Steel. It’s a nod to the quintessential breeze block walls seen throughout the city. This new entry was integrated into the overall design of the original property.  After an extensive two-year…

Auberge Resorts CollectionA summer holiday to the Greek Islands is, perhaps, a tale as old as time. However, there is one 20-room boutique hotel on Santorini that is cutting the edge of creativity while displaying genuine respect for the centuries-old gastronomic traditions in the Mediterranean, a destination renowned for its health- and plant-conscious cuisine. Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection sits miles away from the epicenter of Santorini’s renowned tourist hotspot of Oía and is a retreat in itself. Its location in the quaint village of Imerovigli, which is the highest point on the island, offers guests access to nearby local…

Courtesy of Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront ResortEveryone has their happy place - a place where you go to get away from the everyday world. We recently discovered ours on a visit to the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort. Picture a beautifully landscaped resort dotted with multiple pools, sandy shores, fire pits, an abundance of family-friendly activities and gorgeous oceanfront suites. That’s just what you will find at this luxe spot. Courtesy of Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront ResortThe modern pet-friendly resort is part of the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort community that offers access to an 11-mile lagoon system complete with bike…

Courtesy of The Westin Riverfront Resort & SpaIf the notion of a luxury resort, rushing clear river waters, fine dining and stunning mountainous views gets you excited, The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa is the next vacation you need to book. Located in Avon, Colorado, this elevated stay brings together timeless elements of elegance, relaxing essence found it its spa, inspired dining experience by Richard Sandoval, and rooms that will have you ready to move in.  Overlooking the Beaver Creek Ski Mountain, The Westin Riverfront is situated riverside in the Vail Valley. Year-round views and aquatic melodies of the Eagle…

Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel SeattleOverlooking the Puget Sound, Seattle is a hotbed of interesting experiences, fine dining, world class art and Pacific Northwest hospitality. Whether strolling along the Piers, taking in the Olympic Sculpture Park, checking out the bustling downtown or viewing the collection at the Seattle Art Museum, Four Seasons Hotel Seattle is the ideal stay and location for all things Seattle. Located near the renowned Pike Place Market, Four Seasons Hotel Seattle is steps from many Seattle highlights. With views of the water, a cheerful lobby and restaurant and relaxing pool terrace, I was excited to call…

Columbia HillenWith star jasmine spreading gracefully across its front wall above a garden patio with hedgerows, trees and potted plants, Pavillon De La Reine could be a countryside chateau anywhere in rural France. Instead, it lies in the heart of Paris, Place des Vosges in the lively Marais district in the 3rd arrondissement, a few meters from the former home of renowned 19th-century author Victor Hugo whose literary works include Les Misérables.  Columbia HillenWhile within easy walking distance of restaurants, art galleries and a nearby public garden, this elegant 56-room boutique-style property remains in quiet seclusion, tucked away from the street at…