Category Archives: Hotel of the Week

Dhevanafushi Hotel. Meradhoo, Maldives

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When I was looking for the beach portion of our honeymoon, it became impossible to narrow it down to one. The extraordinary hotel options in Bora Bora, Con Dao, Koh Samui, Mauritius, Fiji and Seychelles were beginning to stress me rather than excite me. That was, until I came across the brand spanking new Dhevanafushi in the Maldives. Right then and there it became clear that this was the place I was so desperately looking for.

Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean, and it is comprised by the most magnificent 1,192 islands to be exact. Hence the infinite high-end hotel options we all get overwhelmed by. However, when I found it on the Conde Nast Traveler’s “2012 Hot List” I knew I was in for a treat.

Like the Four Seasons Tented Camp, it was hard-to-get-to which in my mind added to the exclusivity of it until. Dhevanafushi is located in the south end of the Maldives, requiring you take an additional one-hour flight from Male to Kaadedhdhoo Airport, and a twenty-minute speedboat to the tiny island of Meradhoo. By this point I was hungry and tired of flying for fifteen-hours. We were so far away from Male that even the time zone had changed. We later learned that Meradhoo was the only island in the Maldives with a different time zone.

As we approached the 38-villa hotel, my frown turned into an ecstatic smile. We got off the boat and Chris Ely, the General Manager, welcomed us with refreshing coconut drink, cold towels, local drummers and an army of employees. Needless to mention, the guest to ratio was 3.5 for every guest making our stay flawless. Private butler, boat, captain, chef, yoga teacher, waiters? You name it, they had it.

We then turned around to find our room and realized that the overwater bungalows (or should I say overwater mansions) were built half a mile away from the main island, reachable only by boat (or by Olympic class swimmers). This made it even more secluded and perfect. Not only were we in the most spectacular island in the Maldives, but we were also staying in the most remote bungalow in the entire property… superb!

When we were then taken by a charming boat to our 3,000sqf Sunset Revive Overwater Bungalow (Yes, you read that right, 3,000sqf), I was stunned that something this large was built over the water. I have stayed in many over-water bungalows before, but the average size was 800sqf.

As we opened the door to our room (those of you that have stayed in sister hotels like the Burj Al Arab will understand), a very Jumeirah welcome awaited:

a) A plethora of exotic fruits

b) Hermes toiletries

c) A 25-foot long infinity pool

d) An outdoor tub

e) A yoga deck

f) And a massive 13 by 10 ft bed. It was so gigantic I even did some measuring of how many Stefanie’s fit in the bed (pathetic, I know). The final number was 10! It was nearly impossible to find the other human (my husband) in bed during the middle of the night.

Nevertheless the best part believe it or not was not our bungalow, but the scenery from out of the Life of Pi movie. The abstract coral formations dating back millions of years were like small pieces of art decorating a gigantic showroom, the ocean.

Prior to our honeymoon, we expected our daily activities to consist just of soaking up the sun. On the contrary, when we arrived our days were spent fishing, diving, having a private lunch in a motu, snorkeling, water skiing, and being pampered with a couple’s massage at the lavish overwater Talise spa.

When it came to dining, the staff mentioned over and over again that we could order anything we desired, so I put them to the test. I asked for a Michelada and the Maldivian bartender knew exactly what it was, and followed by making an even better Michelada than my favorite bar in Cabo. Whether that was Dom and Caviar in the room, or French fries and a soda, our desires were met every second of the day.

For those looking for a barefoot luxury experience away from civilization, look no further!

Four Seasons Tented Camp. Chiang Rai, Thailand

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As you might be well aware, I am the happiest when I get a honeymoon request from my clients. Hence my favorite part of my job is to travel to unique destinations to get explore the new trends, top hotels and local cuisine.

When I got engaged last year my immediate goal was to plan the ultimate honeymoon. Therefore, after carefully selecting my favorite destinations I started the search for the most romantic hotels in those locations. It took me almost a year to narrow my list down to three, so without further a due here are the three most romantic, luxurious and unique properties on planet Earth.

We were 36 hours in and our honeymoon seemed more like a marathon than an actual honeymoon. As we got off our Thai Airways flight in Chiang Rai our heads were still spinning from the fact that:

1. We were now married.

2. We had had the most spectacular wedding.

3. We had seen 600 loved ones in one night.

4. We were now half way around the world about to experience the most extraordinary two-week honeymoon ever planned.

As we got off the plane we were greeted perhaps by the happiest person in Thailand, Tai Yo. Everything we said was met with a hearty laugh. It was the kind of laugh that you envy when you hear it, making our one-hour car ride to the Ruak river fly by. Afterwards my husband and I boarded a traditional long boat for the final stretch to reach the long awaited Four Seasons Tented Camp.

As the ranger steered the boat, the crisp and fresh air caressing my face was the instant shot of adrenaline I needed. The lush tropical beauty, the raw wildlife, and location were surreal. We were in the heart of the Golden Triangle where we could see three counties at the same time: Laos, Thailand and Myanmar. In addition, the idea of being in the epicenter of the Opium War was unreal.

Half way into the boat ride, I thought to myself the trip couldn’t get any better than this, that is, until we arrived to the camp. “Ok”, I thought, now I have seen it all. The mix of Swiss family Robinson style with an African flair left me speechless, to the point that when the manager came to introduce himself, I just smiled and said nothing. Thankfully I have a husband that loves conversation, therefore acting as my assistant was a no-brainer as he began telling him all about Posh Voyage.

The bar, lobby, restaurant, library and wine cellar were all outdoors perched on a hill overlooking the Golden Triangle. Consequently, I sat down to take everything in. I got pampered with a fresh cold towel, warm tea and traditional Thai snacks. Everything was great until it became perfect thanks to two giant, hairy, adorable 14-year-old elephants standing behind us. Of course, every time I thought this could not get any better, it did.

It was time to go to our room! We began the 10 minute uphill trek, crossed a suspension bridge, passed by the elephant reserve and there it was, our tent.

At the Tented Camp, hotel rooms are a thing of the past. Here, luxury tents rule. With just 15 tents decorated with handcrafted furniture, outdoor showers, a Jacuzzi, mosquito nets and a hand-hammered copper bathtub, we saw ‘camping’ in a whole new light.

During our stay at the Four Seasons Tented Camp, we never ran out of activities. Whether we were on an elephant trek in the bamboo forests, floating down the Mekong River, spending a day at the open-air spa or exploring the village market, the days flew by. And at night, we indulged in regional specialties at the Nong Yao restaurant, where hurricane lights created the perfect ambiance. Simple dishes like curry’s, papaya salad and friend rice were perfection.

Finally, our “thing” was to head over to the Burma Bar after dinner, order a Bloody Mary and a Lemongrass Martini, and sit next to the fireplace while playing cards. Our game only lasted five minutes max, since I was always losing. I hate losing, so naturally I would throw the cards on the floor and pretend nothing happened. The best part about the bar is that they refuse to play music, believing the sounds of nature make for a more beautiful melody.

El Ganzo Hotel. San Jose del Cabo, BCS. Mexico

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According to moi, Mexico is one of the most overlooked travel destinations for my fellow gringos. So for those Posh Voyage followers who live in and around Texas, this getaway is a quick flight away. Many people assume Mexico is only a travel destination for those looking to party, but actually it offers some of the best unspoiled beaches and spectacular hotels (if you don’t believe, click here), and El Ganzo Hotel in San Jose del Cabo has proven to not be the exception.

First things first, it is crucial to understand that Hotel El Ganzo is not your ordinary hotel. Rated as one of The Hottest New Beach Hotels by Travel & Leisure, El Ganzo is more than just your standard hotel, but an experience in an up-and-coming area of Baja, Puerto Los Cabos. Thus, El Ganzo is not your cookie cutter property, but an à-la-mode sanctuary for those who value privacy.

With only 72 guest rooms, each room is outfitted in custom-made furniture, overlooking the sea of Cortez and the marina. For those looking to indulge, check out the hotels “Very Large Suites” where amenities include a private gym, terrace Jacuzzi and a grand salon with a billiards table.

Aside from the rooms, the hotel offers one of the area’s top golf courses. If golfing is not for you, then book a deep sea fishing day. The hotel Chef will be happy to prepare it for you right before your eyes at the sushi bar.

For the sun god/goddess, be sure to spend a day at the rooftop beach club. Lastly (and most importantly), be sure to check out El Ganzo’s art and music calendar for a monthly update for what’s to come in the hotel’s recording studio. Last time I was there, Slash from Guns N’ Roses gave us a private concert… out-of-body experience.

Overall, Hotel El Ganzo is the ideal getaway for the Posh Voyage travelers looking to experience Mexico in a whole different light.

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.

Amangani Hotel. Jackson Hole, Wyoming. USA

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Located 10 minutes outside of Jackson Hole, guests have the perfect balance of town life and mountain life. But once you arrive one the Amangani property, you will not want to leave. The hotel was designed to be a perfect illustration of Wyoming culture: Redwood walls line the spacious rooms that are decorated with woven, cowhide chairs and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Usually in a place like Jackson Hole, outdoor activities take precedent over housing, but that is not the case at Amangani. Enjoy the luxurious suites that are outfitted with a fireplace, daybed and sliding glass doors overlooking the incredible Teton Mountains.

Regardless of what season you choose to visit, my recommendation is to jet over this Thanksgiving. In the spring and summer, you can enjoy the gorgeous paths for mountain hikes and bike ride, however, Winter in Jackson Hole is one of a kind. Skiing the heart-stopping black runs, dog sledding and sleigh rides were my absolute favorites.

After your stay at Amangani, you will understand why it is repeatedly named as one of the country’s best resorts.

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.

The Penthouse at the Stoneleigh Hotel. Dallas, Texas.

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How about staying in a Penthouse the size of a mansion? How about staying in a Penthouse with a ballroom, library, bar, secret passages, Chinese parlor, living room, terraces, and a plethora of guestrooms? In case you were wondering, it does exist… and it is located in the big D.

It is well known that Texas always does it bigger, and this is no exception. The Penthouse, also known, as “the Scottish Mansion in the sky” is a 7,200sqf suite built in 1936. At that time, the owner of the Stoneleigh Hotel wanted to set the property apart from all others, so he asked the famous interior decorator, Dorothy Draper (famous for her Modern Baroque style), to give Texas the one thing it was missing: a penthouse.

It is pretty obvious the reason why they were so scarce in Texas. With a state the size of France, why would anyone want to buy an apartment? Nonetheless, the creator of The Stoneleigh, Colonel Harry E. Stewart was a forward thinking man, and thought that this unusual preference of residence will one day be the most desirable address in Dallas.

Back in the 1900’s, the penthouse boosted ornate plaster ceilings, marble floors, 500-year-old English oak panels, among other spectacular details. However, at one point in between 1943 (when Stewart sold the hotel) and 2010, a temporary owner painted every wall white to make it look “modern” and hiding forever (or so we thought) the spectacular Scottish design.

Throughout the years, famous guests were instantly attracted to The Stoneleigh Penthouse. One of the most memorable visitors was the one and only, Audrey Hepburn. When the hotel manager was asked which was his favorite story the four walls of The Stoneleigh housed, he mentioned the time when Hard Rock Cafe mogul, Isaac Tigrett (a two year guest in the 80’s), invited Yoko Ono and Dan Aykroyd over. By the end of the night the manager at the time found a mural painted in the master bath. When they left, he foolishly ordered for it to be painted white.

After numerous GM’s, owners and guests, the penthouse and hotel were given a $36 million facelift by Carleton Varney, the successor of Draper Interior Design. While restoring the penthouse to its glory days, they found invaluable 18th century mirrors covered with white paint, courtesy of someone’s ignorant decision.

The rest of the hotel is nice, but not great. I suggest either staying at the Penthouse or staying at The Mansion Hotel by Rosewood during your next stay in Dallas.

If after reading this article, your dream is to one day be a guest, the last thing you need to do is check your bank account and justify spending $10,000 per night.

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.

The Langham Hotel. London, UK

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For Halloween week, we have selected the most beautiful haunted hotel. As you know, fear is an emotion that everyone is bound to experience throughout a life. For some reason, the adrenaline rush that accompanies this sensation is one unlike any other. As a result, various industries like film, entertainment and even travel, specialize in the notion of creating an experience out of fear. And for the Posh Voyage traveler searching for an enthralling Halloween getaway, look no further than the Langham Hotel of London.

Located in the heart of West End, this Victorian hotel is known as the oldest of London’s ‘grand hotels.’ The origin of the building dates back to 1797, even though the hotel opened its doors in 1865.Throughout the hotel’s history, various spooky stories have emerged, causing many people to believe that the Langham is indeed haunted.

The hotel is rumored to have seven different ghosts occupying the property. The most famous legend claims that the spirit of a Doctor, who murdered his wife during their honeymoon at the hotel, still haunts the room in which the two stayed.

In addition to its enticing history, the Langham is also one of London’s finest hotels. With a fabulous spa and award-winning dining, guests can find ways to distract themselves from the gruesome tale. And how fitting: during the month of October, the bar serves its signature cocktail, the “box-o’bones,” which consists of rye whiskey and tequila poured over a piece bone marrow.

Forget about Six Flag’s “Fright Fest.” Posh Voyage is all about mixing Halloween with luxury, and what better place to do so than the Langham?

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.

The Surrey. New York City, New York.

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Located in the Upper East Side of New York City, the Surrey is known for its luxurious atmosphere and spectacular location. In 1926, the Surrey was built as a residence hotel where guests like JFK and Bette Davis frequently visited. Over the years, the management of the Surrey has made sure to maintain the property’s history when it came time to update the hotel.

When you enter the lobby, you will be taken aback through the hotel’s modern décor: An interesting combination of modernity with classic touches blend so perfect, I wish I could take everything home with me. Each of the 190 rooms of the Surrey embody this décor, while also offering incredible views of Central Park or Madison Avenue. However, when visiting NYC, all my readers probably know that the room is just a small part of the NYC Experience.

Another feature that sets the Surrey apart from many other NYC hotels is the rooftop garden. As soon as you walk up to the 17th floor, your jaw will literally fall to the grown with the 360° view of the entire city, while noshing on the culinary creations of Daniel Boulud.

Also, if you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, look no further than the Cornelia Spa, where I got pampered with fresh herbal teas and artisan honeys while awaiting for my neck and shoulder massage, which by the way worked wonders after a hectic shopping day. Note that you do not have to go to the Spa to feel relaxed, their shampoo and conditioner have the most divine aroma I have ever smelled. When I checked out, I bought a dozen to take home.

Additionally, the Surrey is a ‘posh pet’ hotel so guests like me that are obsessed with their four legged friends can tag along!

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.

The Inn at Perry Cabin. St. Michaels, Maryland.

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Remember the movie Wedding Crashers? Remember the stunning East Coast house they stayed in? Well, that scene happened to be filmed at The Inn at Perry Cabin.

Built in 1812, this Maryland mansion is known as one of Maryland’s most cultivated getaways. With just less than 80 rooms and suites, the property is perfect for a quick romantic getaway for all my readers in the East Coast. Each room is decorated with hallmark touches of the 19th century like brick fireplaces, paneled walls and French doors, which allow for a charming, yet intimate ambiance.

And while in Maryland, you can’t forget to try the crabs! The Inn’s restaurant, Sherwood’s Landing, is known by locals as one of the best dining establishments in all of the area. With use of the exquisite seafood and local ingredients of the area, the menu is like no other. Additionally, The Inn at Perry Cabin offers teatime everyday from 3-5 to maintain its ‘old-world’ atmosphere.

Lastly, a stay at the Inn at Perry Cabin cannot end without a day at the Linden Spa. Here guests can indulge in a seaweed wrap, detoxifying facial or rejuvenating massage with views of the Miles River. After a vacation here, you will be dying to tell your friends to book.

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.

The Browns Hotel. London,UK

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On my last trip to London, I found that the Brown’s Hotel was the British equivalent to the New York Plaza Hotel. With its classic style, elegance and attentive service, guests feel as if they were part of the Royal Family.

In 1837, the former valets of Lord and Lady Byron, James and Sarah Brown, decided that London was in need of better housing for travelers. Thus, the Brown’s Hotel opened its doors as London’s first hotel. Over the 175 years of its operations, the hotel has lodged a plethora of famous guests like, Alexander Graham Bell, Rudyard Kipling and Agatha Christie. In fact, Winston Churchill was quoted saying,” I never stay in hotels. I stay at Brown’s.” Today, the hotel has done a fantastic job maintaining the old-charm of the building while making sure to live up to its luxurious reputation.

Located in Mayfair, the Brown’s is in the heart of London. Only a few blocks away from Regent and Bond Street, guests are just minutes away from London’s best shops and art galleries. In addition, the hotel boasts gorgeous views of the greenery in Green and Hyde Park.

But before you leave the property to explore London-town, be sure to attend the award winning “High-Tea” served in the English tearoom. Guests are given the choice of 17 different teas to choose from in addition to scones with clotted jam, cucumber sandwiches and much more. And if you are overwhelmed by the amount of teas, the hotel has two “tea sommeliers” who are present to make sure guests chose just the tea they want.

And when it comes to rooms, the Brown’s does an excellent job living up to its standard of luxury within each of the 117 rooms. Each room is decorated to embody the traditional British formality with a touch of charm. And in terms of suites, it is no wonder that the Brown’s housed so many famous figures. In the Kipling suite, guests can sit back and relax while reminiscing on the fascinating history of the property.

Overall, the Brown’s was a must-see during my trip to London and should be for all Posh Voyage travelers out there!

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.

Number Sixteen. London, UK

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One of my favorite discoveries during my rapid getaway to London was hotel Number 16. To pedestrians, this white-stucco Victorian terrace appears to be an upscale home to some Londoner, and not a quiet boutique hotel.

Enter the hotel’s warm and inviting lobby where guests can escape from the commotion of busy London town. Each of the hotel’s 41 rooms are individually decorated to make a stay at hotel Number 16 unlike that of any other. The décor is just the right mix of contemporary-chic and classic English, making for an aesthetically pleasing experience. Rooms vary in size and some even offer a private courtyard overlooking the property’s meticulously kept gardens.

Although the hotel has no restaurant, they serve afternoon tea in the garden, and have a simple yet yummy room service menu. The drawing room and library are the perfect common area for guests looking to unwind after a day exploring the city. Whether you are curled up by the fire with a cup of tea or enjoying a cocktail at the hotel’s honor bar, hotel patrons have the perfect balance of cozy and chic.

Also located in South Kensington, guests are closely situated to the tube station that connects to major travel hubs like Heathrow and Paddington Station. And for guests looking to explore the area, London ‘hotspots’ like Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Harrods and the Natural History museum are all within walking distance of the hotel.

When it came time for my stay to end, I was devastated leaving this London gem. But good news is, there will be plenty more trips to London which means, plenty of more stays at Number 16.

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.