Andaz Wall Street

Where better to spend Memorial Day than in Lower Manhattan, the most historic part of the city? Stay at Andaz Wall Street, brand new in January, and take in some American culture, Manhattan-style. Federal Hall, where George Washington took the oath of office, is just down the street.  Visit the cobblestoned streets of the South Street Seaport and its new Water Taxi Beach, pay homage at the grave of Alexander Hamilton at Trinity Church, or to capitalism at the New York Stock Exchange. And you’re at the ideal point of departure for sightseeing tours of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Andaz, meaning ‘personal style’ in Hindi, is not your average hotel. Here guests can imprint their own styles on their experiences, starting with check-in. This takes place in the Andaz Lounge where service is simplified, without the middlemen of doorman, bellhop, and concierge at the desk – just one “host” for each incoming guest. Full of clever features like a rotating closet that can open either into the bathroom or the bed chamber, and which innovatively incorporates a hanging area, full-length mirror and  minibar and a vanity mirror on the back of the 42-inch flat screen television, Andaz Wall Street is ahead of its time, and has not forgotten the classics like a complimentary shoe shine, suit press, and the day’s paper (The Wall Street Journal, of course).  

Rooms start at $275/night, click here for more details.

Inn on the Alameda, Santa Fe

Think it’s impossible to get a good rate over Memorial Day weekend? Not at Inn on the Alameda, where rates start at just $215 a night and include the lavish “Breakfast of Enchantment” served each morning and wine and cheese reception each afternoon. Located in the heart of Santa Fe, it’s ideal for a weekend of relaxation, great Southwestern cuisine, and history. With classic Pueblo-style architecture and attentive personal service, the old-world ambiance of Santa Fe flows throughout the comfortable 71 rooms and communal areas.  Mexican tile, handmade furniture, hand-woven rugs, local artifacts, and traditional Kiva fireplaces contribute to the hotel’s warm and inviting atmosphere. Amenities include complimentary parking for guests, two outdoor hot tubs, fitness facility, guest laundry, complimentary Wi-Fi in guest rooms and public areas, coffee service, and toll-free and local calls at no charge.

Over Memorial Day, experience the arts and culture by gallery hopping and shopping at the Jemez Red Rock Arts and Crafts Show, or catch a showing of Hitchcock’s Vertigo at The Lensic, Santa Fe’s Performing Arts Center on Saturday, May 29^th.

For reservations and information, contact the Inn on the Alameda at 1-888-984-2122 or 505-984-2121 or at www.innonthealameda.com. 

Park Hyatt Beaver Creek, Colorado

The Blues, Brews and BBQ Festival, taking place over Memorial Day weekend in Beaver Creek, Colorado, is the unofficial start to summer in the Rockies. Celebrate the long weekend with an escape to Park Hyatt Beaver Creek, which hosts the largest tasting of Colorado microbrews in the state on Saturday, May 29. Featuring more than 80 special concoctions from 35 breweries, the Colorado Microbrew Tasting has become one of the highlights of festival. 

The hotel’s restaurant, 8100 Mountainside Bar & Grill, has joined in on the festivities by offering a special “Featured Brewers Menu” that will pair beer creations from the microbreweries with special dishes.

Package includes:

• Accommodations at the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek, located in the heart of the festivities
• 2 entry tickets into the Blues, Brews and Barbecue Microbrew Tasting
• 2 commemorative tasting mugs
• 30% off services at Allegria Spa

Rates start at $219 per night. To book this package, click here  or call 866-471-7658. For tickets to the Colorado Microbrews Tasting at Park Hyatt Beaver Creek, call 970-827-6505.  Tickets are $35 in advance or $40 at the door.

Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos

Enjoy the Caribbean this Memorial Day without the crowds –or prices – of the high season. Instead of enduring the goose bumps that come after throwing on summer clothes and hoping for warm weather, celebrate on Parrot Cay and kick the summer off early. Check out the amazing deals, all available through September 8, 2010, and if you bring them, kids eat free.

• Four for three deal, starting at $2088
• Seven for five deal, starting at $3480
• 25% discount on packages – applies to all packages, which include the Sun and Seclusion, Parrot Cay Honeymoon, Dr. Perricone COMO Shambhala Experience, Wellness programs, and the brand new Babymoon and Romantic Runaway packages.

GIVE HER SPA: Spa Day at the Peninsula Spa by ESPA, New York

Were you a particularly nasty teenager?  If so, choose between several Mother’s Day treatments at the Peninsula, including the “Spa Experience” and “Mother’s Delight” 75-minute, $225 treatments.  Mom can spend all day at the spa swimming in the pool, lounging on the outdoor patio, and enjoying the complimentary champagne and macaroons available throughout Mother’s Day weekend.   ESPA treatments are so unbelievable that Mom might forgive you for years 13-18…if you’re lucky.

GIVE HER BRUNCH: Brunch at Brant Point Grill at White Elephant, Nantucket

This is not just your average brunch – it’s the Brant Point Grill’s Annual Mother’s Day Bloody Mary Brunch, where Mom can request exactly how much Tabasco, Worcestershire, and horseradish she wants in her morning Mary.  Treat Mom to an overnight stay at the White Elephant and Mom might forget about Michael Bublé altogether.  Brunch is $45/person, and rooms start at $195.

OR GIVE HER BOTH: Breakfast and SPA at Andaz Wall Street, New York City

If Mom isn’t a stockbroker, she may never have been down to Wall Street.  Introduce her to the Lower Manhattan neighborhood and the new Andaz Wall Street hotel, where brunch is being served now at Wall & Water restaurant.  Enjoy creative fare like fried eggs and foie gras or classics like Belgian Waffles.   Finally, all mothers who brunch at Wall & Water on Mother’s Day receive a card for 20% off at The SPA, valid through December.  The SPA uses Luzern Laboratories facial products known for their anti-aging properties; not that you’re looking old mom, but we just thought you’d like to know!

 

“Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree, Thy leaves are so unchanging.” Not true at Park Hyatt Zurich this season when the hotel lobby’s decorative evergreen becomes a “Wish Tree” in support of the local Children’s Spitex Canton Zurich foundation (Kispex) – an organization that helps sick children access outpatient care so that they might live in the comfort of their homes.

In addition to the typical trimmings of ornamental balls and garlands, a variety of colorful handmade red stars are sparkling on the tree’s boughs. Kids of Park Hyatt Zurich employees have tapped into their artistic energy and decked out one side of these stars with festive coloring. The other side has a brief description of Kispex.

From now until Christmas, guests of the hotel may select a star from the tree and choose to make a monetary donation to Kispex at the front desk. And in the true spirit of the season, Park Hyatt will collect all of the donations, double them, and give the total amount to the organization.

Pick up a star and make a holiday wish come true during your next visit to Switzerland!

Choose naughty and save Santa the trip this year. Met Bar members can head to the Metropolitan London for a steamy “Baby It’s Cold Outside” Christmas Cabaret Spectacular on Wednesday, December 2, at 9:30 p.m.

Pin-ups Esme Bianco, Roxy Velvet, and Polly Cupcake will welcome you with a night of festive stripteases and burlesque performances on a custom-made silver sleigh. Before heading out, don’t forget to grab a bag of swag filled with Modern Courtesan lingerie and Hotel Chocolat sweets.

Members can RSVP to jamie.holloway@metropolitan.como.bz.

Alexandra Champalimaud, designer of the new White Elephant Hotel Residences on Nantucket, was named “Designer of the Year” at the 29^th annual Gold Key Awards at The International Hotel/Motel & Restaurant Show in New York.

From the exterior, the White Elephant Hotel Residences are quintessential New England cottages. On the inside, however, Alexandra Champalimaud has fused the traditional aesthetic that is so very Nantucket with a distinct European touch. This design vision, coupled with plenty of modern conveniences (a Sub-Zero refrigerator, a high definition flat screen television, and a panini maker, to name a few) is clearly the recipe for a great getaway.

As for that quintessential New Englandness, it is in full swing at the annual Christmas Stroll Weekend. A part of Nantucket Noel, a month-long community celebration organized by the Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce, the Stroll features carolers in Victorian Costume, bell ringers, student choirs, and even Santa and Mrs. Claus in a horse-drawn carriage, arriving via Coast Guard vessel, of course.

Visit http://www.nantucketislandresorts.com/ for more information.

Head to our nation’s capital and book a cozy holiday getaway with the Comfort & Joy Winter Package at Park Hyatt Washington D.C.

Enjoy a complimentary upgrade to a Park Deluxe room, where guests can spend a frosty evening snuggled up under a fluffy down comforter. Before lights out, chase away the chill in your bones and settle in to a steaming hot bath in the Park Deluxe spa-inspired bathroom.

Then savor the flavors of a revitalizing pot of tea from the hotel’s famously unique Tea Cellar. Boasting more than 50 rare teas from regions of China, Japan, Sri Lanka, and the Himalayas, the Tea Cellar is sure to please anyone in need of a soothing night-cap. If the kids are in tow – or you’re craving something a bit sweeter – ask for a complimentary pot of rich hot cocoa and a batch of freshly baked cookies. 

As for the best part? There’s no need to worry about getting to bed early – check-out time for this special seasonal package is pushed back until 4 p.m. for a little extra hibernation.

The offer is available from November 29, 2009 through February 28, 2010. Rates start at $349 per room.

Let someone else baste the turkey this year and relax with a few great, last minute holiday deals from Nantucket Island Resorts. Stay at the White Elephant, where Hot Dates, Cool Rates will get you a room for $150 per night from November 25-29. Then feast with the family at the All-day Thanksgiving Buffet at Brant Point Grill for $65 adults, $32.50 kids 6-12yrs and $5 for 3-5 yrs.

Book online or call 800.ISLANDS and mention “Hot Dates, Cool Rates.”

Visit http://www.nantucketislandresorts.com for more information.

LOVE to get away? In 2010, Valentine’s Day and President’s Day coincide, so take your partner or your posse on a trip without using all of your vacation days!  It’s never to early to start planning a “True Love Tryst” or a “Singles Escape!”

True Love Trysts

Run away to: The Maldives

Stay at: Naladhu

What:  The romance begins when you step out of the airport and onto the speedboat that will take you directly to this Maldivian island resort. A House Master will lead you to your private house, where Champagne cocktails and fruit are waiting. Spend the day by the pool or snorkeling in the reef then relax with a complimentary coconut milk bath for two.

As if that wasn’t enough: Chocolate cake to share is included!

How much: The “Island Romance” package starts at start at $1474 for an Ocean House. Visit http://naladhu.anantara.com/Island-Romance/default.aspx for more information.

Run away to: The Mayan Riviera

Stay at: Rosewood Mayakobá

What:  The five-night “Mayan Romance” package is all about relaxation. Take a Tantric Yoga class and enjoy a Moonlight Massage for two on your suite terrace. Then soothe your muscles in an Aroma Bath with champagne and chocolate and you’ll be on your way to rekindling that fire all day, and night, long.

As if that wasn’t enough: You’ll also get a Couple’s Massage instruction session with 30 minutes of “alone time.”

How much: Package rates start at $810 per day, minimum 5-nights. Visit http://www.rosewoodmayakoba.com/en/specialoffers.cfm for details.

Run away to: Moscow

Stay at: Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow

What:  For the lovebirds who are itching to get out of the nest, this city was made for you to explore together.  Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum in Red Square and the Kremlin in the old city center. For a classically romantic evening go ice skating on Gorky Park ponds, transformed into rinks for the winter.

As if that wasn’t enough: The “Romance at the Park” package allows a 4PM checkout, so spend the afternoon in bed!

How much: Check http://moscow.park.hyatt.com for best available rates.

Run away to: Turks and Caicos

Stay at: Parrot Cay

What: Leave your boots behind and grab your swimsuits! After an afternoon of white sand beaches and turquoise waters, rent out the COMO Shambhala Cottage for your Valentine’s Day dinner. This screened-in cottage overlooks the nearby wetlands and is decorated with candles and tropical flowers.

As if that wasn’t enough: The resort lets you set the mood with your own music!

How much: Rental cost including service is $400 (excluding food and beverage) and rates start at $775 per night for a Garden View Room. See http://www.parrotcay.como.bz/rates for booking details.

Run away to: Geneva

Stay at: La Réserve Genève Hotel and Spa

What:  Fashioned along the lines of an African Lodge by renowned designer Jacques Garcia, La Réserve Genève is sophisticated yet playful. With ten acres of private gardens and beaches on the shores of Lake Geneva, you’ll find everything you need including two excellent restaurants, a stylish bar with live DJ, a full-service spa, and even its own vineyard.  For added romance, arrive to the hotel by Venetian motorboat – a complimentary service that whisks guests to and from Geneva.

As if that wasn’t enough: Reluctant to leave the little ones behind? Bring the kids to La Petite Réserve, where they can play in an open-air playground, a magical tree house, or the indoor childcare center.

How much: Rates start at $450.  Visit http://www.lareserve.ch/english/ for more details.

Singles Escapes

Run away to: London

Stay At: The Metropolitan

What: Call your best friend and go visit Union Jack. For the girls, the Met London’s “Tote-to-Toe” package includes overnight accommodation for two, £50 ($80!) worth of Selfridge’s vouchers, a bottle of champagne, and a priority reservation at the uber-trendy Japanese restaurant NOBU. For the guys, the Met recommends some ‘arty boozing’ in Camden Town at Proud, a gallery and bar in a former Victorian Horse Hospital.

As if that wasn’t enough: As a guest of the hotel, you have access to the chic members-only Met Bar.

How much: Tote-to-Toe starts at $472 per night in a King Park room and a City Room starts at $595. Visit http://www.metropolitan.london.como.bz/ for more information.

Run away to: Miami

Stay At: Acqualina Resort and Spa

What: Recover from a recent heartbreak with a little pampering. Guests at Acqualina receive complimentary access to the ESPA spa’s steam rooms and Finnish saunas. Then hit the town along with the scantily clad residents and reward your suffering with a fun weekend fling.

As if that wasn’t enough: Each day of your stay you’ll receive a $40 spa treatment credit. Massage the pain away!

How much: See http://www.acqualinaresort.com/rooms-suites/special-packages/ for more information.

Run away to: Buenos Aires

Stay At: Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt Buenos Aires

What: Return to the pre-breakup pleasures of a bottle of great (Argentine) wine with friends at the Palacio Duhau’s Restaurant and Vinoteca. Book the “Culture at the Park” package and get two Tango lessons, then take your skills out on the town and dance the night away.

As if that wasn’t enough: The stunning property combines a restored Palace and new building, has its own art gallery, and an 8,000 square foot spa.

How much:  Visit the Special Offers page at http://www.buenosaires.park.hyatt.com for best available rates.

Run away to: Bali

Stay At: Uma Ubud

What: Go far, far away to get over that ex and regroup mind, body and soul. With the “Ubud Escape” you’ll visit local villages, temples and artisans’ workshops.  Get a 60-minute COMO Shambala or Indonesian massage, a daily Yoga class, and a daily group guided walk.

As if that wasn’t enough: Included is a three-course dinner at Kemiri, the open air restaurant next to a waterfall-fed pond.

How much: The Ubud Escape starts at $665 per room, double occupancy. Visit http://www.uma.ubud.como.bz for more information

These unconventional end-of-year getaways will scratch the travel itch. Rounded up here are cozy and kid-friendly locales for families, unique spots for adventurers and enriching destinations for those craving cultural stimuli.  

Family Festivities

WHAT:  Getaway to a Country Cottage

WHERE: National Trust Holiday Cottages – UK

WHY: Because a trip to the English countryside with a family membership in the Royal Oak Foundation to see old castles and gardens (for free!) could just be the best present for the Harry Potter-loving kids (or parents).

DETAILS, DETAILS: With over 360 cottages from which to choose, here are a few:

• Emley Farmhouse in Surrey sleeps up to 10 and has a traditional country kitchen, perfect for that big Christmas dinner. A three night stay starts at $740.35, a seven night stay, $1416.75.
• 89 Church Lawn in Wiltshire sleeps up to seven and has exclusive access to the National Trust’s stunning winter gardens. You can even go fishing in the beautiful lake. A three night stay starts at $590, a seven night stay, $1065.50.
• Abermydyr in Wales sits on the banks of the River Aeron and sleeps up to six. Brings the kids here for the Christmas food and craft fair at Llanerchaeron, a Trust protected gentry estate. A three night stay starts at $493.50, a seven night stay, $957.30.

WHAT: Swiss Family Reunion

WHERE: The Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa – Interlaken, Switzerland

WHY: Christmas dinners, a Children’s Party for New Year’s Eve, and Dad treating Mom to a Festive Foam Bath with winter aromas and champagne all conspire for festive fun.

DETAILS, DETAILS: Splash Hour at the pool, the Zurich Zoo and the St. Beatus caves will thrill the kids, and fitness classes, Turkish baths, and professional childcare will restore their parents’ sanity. Rates start at $877 per night for double occupancy.

Adventurers Only

WHAT:  Arabian Eco-experience

WHERE: Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa – Sir Bani Yas Island, UAE

WHY: It feeds the craving for sun while heeding the call of the wild.

DETAILS, DETAILS: Home to one of Abu Dhabi’s largest Arabian wildlife conservancies, guests can go hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, take a game drive, or learn archery. Double occupancy rates start at $537 per night; book at least 30 days in advance to receive a 15% discount.

 WHAT: Modern Day Pilgrimage

WHERE: Uma Paro – Bhutan  

WHY: Because hiking to a Buddhist monastery sure beats waiting in line at a department store with frantic holiday shoppers.

DETAILS, DETAILS: One of its many active adventures includes a trek to Tiger’s Nest monastery, located in the sheer cliffs 2,700 feet above Paro Valley and a peaceful orchard picnic with spectacular views. For the month of December, double occupancy rates start at $330 per night.

WHAT: Chance to Step Foot on Antarctica

WHERE: Crystal Cruise’s Symphony departs from Buenos Aires, Argentina to Valparaiso, Chile.   

WHY: Due to an upcoming ban on cruise ships in the Antarctic Ocean, this will be Crystal’s final voyage to the area.

DETAILS, DETAILS: In addition to visiting amazing locales in South America, six thrill-seekers will take the rare overland trip to Antarctica to see remote villages, a petrified forest, and a penguin breeding ground. Rates start at $8,995, double occupancy.

Cultural Cravings

WHAT: Revelation in the Red City 

WHERE: Royal Mansour Marrakech – Morocco 

WHY: It will be impossible to miss the carolers when exploring Djemma El-fna, a square in the historical district of town known for having the best musicians, dancers and storytellers.

DETAILS, DETAILS:  When in this city of cultural fusions be sure to visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs, and the largest souk (traditional market) in Morocco to bargain for spices or clothing or tea pots. Riads start at €1,500 a night.     

WHAT: Balinese New Beginning

WHERE: Uma Ubud – Bali  

WHY: What better way to start the year then with the New Year package’s complimentary massage on the first day of 2010.   

DETAILS, DETAILS: Guests will see the village decorated with traditional bamboo poles and banana leaves and enjoy a Balinese-inspired New Year’s Eve dinner, followed by a cocktail party with DJ at the pool bar. Rates start at $260 per night, double occupancy.

WHAT: A Resolution Well-Kept

WHERE: Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa, Chiang Rai, Thailand 

WHY: Utilizing those new Thai cooking skills back home will keep the post-holiday gloom at bay.

DETAILS, DETAILS: The cooking lessons are just the beginning of the cultural immersion; at the Elephant Camp (part of the Thai Elephant Conservation Centre), a 30-minute lesson will teach adventurers to drive an elephant. Rates start at $520, double occupancy.