Lifestyle

A high/low vibe appeals at Tomales Bay’s newish Lodge at Marconi. Admittedly mostly high, the coastal retreat’s ambiance and amenities are ideal for those who like their fleece with a bit of Frette. Akin to elevated glamping, a stay here affords easy access to the wonders of West Marin, a region known for its abundant natural

Les Lumières Versailles Taking a 40-minute train from Paris to Château de Versailles, one can enjoy a meal or stay overnight at the newly opened Les Lumières Versailles. This luxury 5-star hotel was recently inducted into Relais & Châteaux, and is located near the entrance of the Palace of Versailles. Translated in English as The Lights of Versailles,

Whitney Spielfogel If you think that Labor Day marks the end of summer vacations and seaside revelry, think again. For many European destinations, September’s “shoulder season” is one of the best times to travel abroad, and due to its recent rise in popularity, the Greek island of Paros is no exception. With its growing reputation

Whitney Spielfogel In the heart of Athens, where ancient history blends seamlessly with modern vibrancy, lies the Gatsby Hotel, a stylish retreat that redefines luxury with a bold, retro flair. Inspired by the roaring twenties and the opulence of the Art Deco era, the Gatsby Hotel is a refreshing departure from the traditional, offering a unique

Sep. 14th, 2024 Have you ever stayed in a hotel or resort before and can’t believe it actually exists, let alone you are setting foot in such a magical place? That was the experience I had while visiting Fairmont Banff Springs; a castle-like historic hotel that makes fairytale dreams come true. Banff National Park, adjacent

(credit: courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton New York Central Park) Situated on the corner of 59th St and 6th Ave just across the street from Central Park, The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park offers a yearly suite package not to be missed. Its location along the parade route of the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade makes it an

Whitney Spielfogel Nestled on the tranquil island of Folengandros, Greece, the newly unveiled five-star Gundari property is the epitome of peace and privacy. Unlike its more famous island neighbors, Santorini and Mykonos, Folegandros has managed to maintain a low profile, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. Folegandros is a hidden gem in the

Le Grand Hôtel Cayré Those traveling to France will enjoy staying at the new Le Grand Hôtel Cayré. Located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, on the left bank (Rive Gauche) of the Seine, this lively arrondissement is filled with luxury boutiques, bustling cafes, Le Bon Marche’, patisseries, cheese shops, and an energy like no other neighborhood in Paris. This

(credit: Peter Island Resort) A treasured secret among sophisticated travelers for decades, Peter Island Resort in the British Virgin Islands re-opens in November 2024 after a six-year hiatus. The property closed during the Virgin Islands’ 2017 hurricane season and now offers brand new and upgraded accommodations as well as other state-of-the-art facilities. Rebuilt and re-envisioned,

Cloudland at McLemore Cloudland at McLemore Resort has a backstory that is as good as its accommodations, restaurants, spa, and golf courses. Tucked away on a 2,000-foot elevation in northern Georgia, the resort has become a vacation magnet for travelers seeking fresh mountain air, world-class golf, to die-for views, and a touch a luxury throughout

Courtesy Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Tal Vardi Upon entering the large lodge-inspired grand lobby, guests are impressed by Fairmont Chateau Whistler from the very first steps. With tasteful art accenting the walls, soaring ceilings, and an appropriate mountain ambiance, Fairmont continues its commitment to excellence in both amenities and service at this Western Canada property. The

Zafiro Palace Andratx With an influx of buzzy new hotel and restaurant openings, new direct flights from the U.S. and a focus on sustainability, Mallorca, Spain shows no sign of slowing down. While peak summer months cater to those seeking a lively Mediterranean atmosphere, fall in Mallorca provides a more serene and laid-back vibe. Notable

Columbia Hillen Every tile tells a story. Or at least that’s the situation at the 5-star Bela Vista Hotel & Spa in Portimão on Portugal’s Algarve coast. Century-old hand-painted tiles adorn the walls of this 38-room hotel, none more so than on the ornate wooden staircase leading up to the bedrooms. Here, a series of

The Pool at The Spa at The Ritz Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara. Photo Jill Weinlein Those looking to escape the heat will find golden beaches and cool marine air at the five-star The Ritz Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara. This oceanfront getaway offers a 42,000-square-foot sanctuary Spa with its own saltwater, adult-only outdoor swimming pool, and

Marriott This hotel– Asher Adams– was named after the first cartographers to depict railroad lines on their maps. It is the new luxury hotel, transforming the historic 1908 Union Pacific railroad passenger station into a 225-room Marriott Autograph Collection hotel.   Located in The Gateway, a large, open-air retail, residential, and office complex in Salt Lake

La Valencia Hotel Cherished among locals and visitors alike, San Diego Historic Landmark and Preferred Hotels & Resorts member, La Valencia has embodied coastal California charm since it opened in 1926. Originally named Los Apartmentos de Sevilla, the hotel was designed in a Spanish Colonial Revival style – its pink façade inspired by the owners’ vacation

Aug. 19th, 2024 Some luxury resorts were custom designed to provide the ultimate stay for their guests – offering opulent accommodations, top-tier dining, and lavish amenities, but Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World has set out to prove that not all luxury experiences are the same. Whether you come here to enjoy a

(credit: North Island) The tropical oceanic climate of this small country presents the ultimate in barefoot luxury and a backdrop for an exceptional and unique destination. Located in the far north of the Indian Ocean archipelago, North Island measures at 201 hectares where guests are surrounded by turquoise water and breathtaking white sand beaches and

Aug. 23rd, 2024 Dreaming of renting or buying villas around the globe for your next adventure? Well, here’s a twist on the typical travel tale – Miami-based Storylines is crafting a floating eco-friendly paradise with 530 luxury homes aboard. Forget cabins, condos, or villas – this is a private residence vessel, and the dwellings are

Columbia Hillen About to leave for our scheduled tour of Hobbiton, the charming film location of the Shire, home to Frodo and company, disaster struck. Approaching our car, I noticed the rear tire was completely flat, the result of a nail puncture. And the spare was too thin to get us there. Columbia Hillen To