Archive for March, 2009

Go Shopping in Nairobi with Tribe – The Village Market Hotel

Tuesday, March 31st, 2009

Tribe – The Village Market Hotel is the best place to stay at if you’re looking for a fantastic hotel in Kenya that’s close to great shopping. This African gem is right inside The Village Market, East Africa’s largest shopping and recreation complex.

Tribe - The Village Market Hotel in Nairobi

Whether you’re a diplomat in Kenya on business, or whether you want to enjoy East Africa’s best shopping, a trip to Kenya is a must for all luxury travelers.

When visiting Nairobi, Kenya, we recommend staying at Tribe – the Village Market Hotel. Not only is this Kenya hotel totally chic and luxurious, you simply can’t beat the location. Found right inside The Village Market (East Africa’s largest shopping and recreation complex) and in Gigiri (Nairobi’s upscale Diplomatic Distric), you will be within walking distance of the United Nations Headquarters, the US Embassy and the Canadian High Commission.

All 142 rooms are modern in their design and are also adorned with hand-picked art and furnishings from African artisans, giving guests a real cultural treat. Common spaces also boast an excellent and interesting design that guests are sure to enjoy.

There are plenty of things to do at this upscale Nairobi hotel, especially since it is adjacent to the Village Market Shopping Complex. Guests can use the on-site gym, the cinema, the ten pin bowling alley and play mini golf. There are also facilities for children who are looking for a place to play. Village Market Shopping Complex boasts more than 150 shops and services as well as 20 restaurants and a water slide!

Tribe - the Village Market Hotel in KenyaAfter exploring Nairobi, you might want to check out Epic, Tribe’s in-house restaurant. With an intimate environment, guests can have excellent Continental cuisine fused with East African flavours.

And, guests who really want to relax will definitely want to escape to this luxury hotel’s Wellness Spa. You will find a wide range of treatments here to help you leave your stress behind.

We can’t think of a better way to spend time in Kenya then with Tribe – The Village Market Hotel.


Exploring Morelia, Mexico with Villa Montana Hotel and Spa

Monday, March 30th, 2009

Kiwi Insider Karen Mumby was recently invited along with 10 other travel agents by Mexicana Airlines, Mexican Tourism Board and Total Vacations to go on a “Familiarization Trip” to experience a combination of Colonial Mexico with a couple of days of relaxing at the beach.

Villa Montana Mexico Hotels

We had the pleasure at staying at Villa Montana Hotel and Spa during our stay in Morelia, Mexico. From its secluded hilltop setting, Villa Montaña Hotel overlooks the city.

Each of this Mexico hotel’s 36 luxurious villa-style suites has its own special character, distinct in design and superb artistic furnishings are enhanced with modern luxuries.  All of the suites come with their own cozy fireplaces. Some even have two!

Statuary and stonework motifs decorate the paths that meander through luxuriant gardens of this exclusive mini-village. In the delightful restaurant, innovative cuisine, with the finest ingredients, is prepared with talent and served with flair.

International and regional cuisine is incomparable, made with the finest and freshest ingredients and served with flair and elegance. A fireplace and artwork add to the casual elegant atmosphere. The terrace bar-restaurant is delightful for lunch, cocktails and socializing while enjoying a panoramic view of Morelia.

In the evening watch the spectacular illumination of Mexico’s most beautiful cathedral, then hit the streets for a night out on the town.  Sunday buffet breakfast features an array of Michoacan’s regional delicacies at this hotel in Morelia.
(more…)


Picture Perfect Melbourne Hosts Inaugural Twilight Grand Prix

Sunday, March 29th, 2009

Kiwi Insider John Nielsen visited Melbourne for its inaugural Grand Prix (which was held from March 26 -29). What an excellent reason to travel to Melbourne. When traveling here, be sure to stay in the best hotels in Melbourne for the perfect luxury experience!

grand-prix-melbourne-2009It’s an almost surreal feeling as I sit down on the banks on Albert Park Lake in Melbourne. The swans and ducks flitter around the lake with a few smaller sailing boats flapping their colorful sails in the wind, the sun is slowly setting on the skyline of Melbourne, it feels like I am miles away, when the roar of the Formula 1 car’s blaze down the stretch as they warm up to compete in Melbourne Grand Prix, the inaugural twilight GP held between March x and x this year.

The city has really turned it on for the visiting teams and spectators, stunning weather conditions of 78 degrees and clear blue skies have brought out eager racing fans who are soaking up the sun and Champagne.
(more…)


Get Adventurous with Chile’s Tierra Atacama Hotel and Spa

Thursday, March 26th, 2009

Tierra Atacama Hotel and Spa is a perfect hotel for adventure seekers or spa hotel. You will really love this luxury boutique hotel, found in Chile’s Atacama Desert.

Tierra Atacama Hotel and Spa - Chile Luxury Hotels

Found in one of the world’s most unique areas, you are sure to love Tierra Atacama Hotel and Spa. This Chile hotel is on the edge of San Pedro de Atacama in the Atacama Desert (northern Chile). Touring the rugged and beautiful country side, volcano climbing, bird watching, relaxing in the spa or going on an exciting expedition are a few of the many things to do at this boutique hotel.

So what’s the hotel like?

All of this luxury Chile hotel’s 32 rooms have private terraces and views of the Licancabur volcano. The hotel also has a couple of Family Suites which are good for families or groups. You’ll love this hotel’s sleek minimalist design. You won’t find a TV in your room – this is done intentionally. The idea is to allow guests to truly escape the outside world as much as possible.

If your goal is to get away from it all, the Uma Spa is for you. Perfect after a rigorous morning trek or an expedition, or for guests who are really just about relaxation, you’ll find a treatment that’s right for you.

Relax in either the outdoor pool or heated indoor pool or spend some time in the Jacuzzi. If you really want to rejuvenate your tired skin, think about spending some time in The Uma Steam Room, or the Turkish Bath.

Tierra Atacama Hotel and Spa: Chile HotelsAside from the facial and massage rooms, Uma Spa also has a space for meditative relaxation. Sip a cup of rica rica herbal tea or cold cucumber water and enjoy the scenery.

For adventurous souls, be sure to go on some of Tierra Atacama’s excursions. You can go to the Salar de Atacama (Salt Flat) and see three varieties of flamingos, or head to the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), Puritama Hot Springs or El Tatio Geysers.

There are even more adventures to go on, and you can go by car, by foot or by bike! You may also get the opportunity to climb the volcano!

What a great way to enjoy some of Chile’s most stunning scenery!


Hotel Teatro: One of Denver’s Best Hotels

Wednesday, March 25th, 2009

Hotel Teatro is the perfect hotel to stay at if you’re on a business trip or if you’re looking for a great food and wine hotel. This is also a great place to stay if you need a pet friendly hotel. We here at Kiwi Collection highly recommend this Colorado stunner!

Hotel Teatro Denver Hotels

If you’re looking for a little luxury on your next trip to Denver, we recommend that you stay at Hotel Teatro. Found right at the heart of the city, this luxury Denver hotel is located right across from the Denver Center for Performing Arts (and you’ll see elegant and interesting costumes and photographs from past productions decorating the lobby, parlor and guest rooms).

You’ll find unmatched service at this boutique hotel, where no request is too large or too small. Make use of Hotel Teatro’s resourceful concierge to arrange anything from a private jet to Maui or a massage for your pet pooch. With knowledge of the city and all of the amazing things there are to do in Denver, you can ask for advice on how to spend your time (if you have any free, that is).
(more…)


Escape to London with Andaz Hyatt Hotel on Liverpool Street

Tuesday, March 24th, 2009

Want to check out some of the best sites in London (like the Tower of London and the Foundry Art Gallery) while on a business trip to England’s capital? Look no further than ANdAZ Hyatt Hotel on Liverpool Street. This London hotel is perfect for business trips as well as vacationers looking for a great base from which to go sightseeing.

Andaz London Hyatt Hotel

Perfect for business travelers and vacationers interested in London’s fantastic art scene, ANdAZ Hyatt on Liverpool Street is sure to please you. Located in London’s east end, this luxury London hotel is right in the heart of the city’s financial and creative districts.

Guests will enjoy ANdAZ’s old-meets-new charm. The building itself is about 125 years old, but the rooms are extremely modern with gorgeous contemporary furnishings. You’ll find an ergonomic workstation in your room (with an Eames chair). The washrooms have floor to ceiling “brick tiling” which is a great, modern touch, as well as an environmentally friendly, fast filling bath tubs.

ANdAZ Liverpool Street really gets the little details. Everything from the plush robes and slippers to the healthy minibar to the iPod docking station makes you feel like your every wish and need is anticipated in advance. You can even pick up an iPod from the hotel’s “Living Room” with a pre-loaded playlist of local artists in case you forget your music at home or want to try something new.

In addition to 267 guest rooms and suites, the hotel has five restaurants, four bars and 14 event rooms!
(more…)


Find a Little Bit of Luxury at Arizona Inn

Monday, March 23rd, 2009

The Arizona Inn is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway! Steal away to Tucson to relax and unwind with someone special.

Arizona Inn Luxury Resort

I had only been to Tucson once before, for about 6 hours for back to back meetings in November of 2008, so I didn’t have a chance to really explore or get a feel for the city.

I was surprised to learn that the population of Tucson was roughly a million people as it has such a calm laid back feel too it; a little different than Phoenix. The weather was on my side with an average of 25 degrees Celsius for my weekend adventure.

I stayed at the lovely Arizona Inn located in Central Tucson, although you would never know it, as it has such a private secluded feel to it nestled in a residential neighbourhood.

The entire property is surrounded by 15 foot walls of the most unique pink / peach colour and hedges just as tall, creating a cozy vibe. The feel is almost like home with understated but personalized service, you feel very welcome when you arrive.

My room at this gorgeous luxury Arizona hotel was stunning with a large private patio, a view of the courtyard and the lush gardens. The decor was simple and tasteful featuring a variety of antique furniture, likely from Isabella Greenway’s original furniture factory.

Dining at the Arizona Inn  was my favourite part of the evening. The service was impeccable and the food was spectacular – my absolute favourite is the seared scallops with cilantro ginger risotto.

I decided to try the breakfast buffet by the pool for a more casual setting the next morning and it was just as impressive.  An after breakfast ping pong game was in order in the main courtyard as well.

Arizona Inn Luxury HotelIf you are planning a trip to Tucson I would highly recommend a visit to Sabino Canyon and the Desert Museum, both are on opposite ends of town from each other but well worth the drive.  The narrated tram tour in Sabino Canyon features some of the most spectacular views of the Santa Catalina Mountains,  you can also hop-off / hop-on the tram to stop and splash in the creeks or have an afternoon picnic.

The Desert Museum isn’t your typical museum; you will see a variety of wildlife, vegetation and caves featuring all that beauty that Arizona has to offer.

On the way back from the Desert Museum, Old Tucson Studios should not be missed; the number of movies and TV shows that were filmed there is astonishing.  Whether it’s to catch a gun fight at the OK Corral, ride on the stage coach through town or devour homemade fudge this attraction is well worth the visit.

If you are in the mood for authentic Mexican cuisine, the El Charro Cafe is a must try.  They are famous for their Carne Seca beef and of course their very generous portions.


Enjoy a Few Rounds of Golf on Sea Island

Friday, March 20th, 2009

Sea Island is the perfect place to go for a relaxing golf getaway or some fun along the coast. Stay at either The Cloister at Sea Island or The Lodge at Sea Island for a perfect, luxurious experience on your vacation.

Sea Island is a luxury resort island off the coast of Georgia in the United States. Located in the “barrier islands”, this Atlantic island is part of the “Golden Isles of Georgia” along with Jekyll island, St. Simons Island and Little St. Simmons Island.

Its history of luxury accommodation makes it a popular place to go if you’re looking for a high class, private getaway. Golfers, sun-seekers and water lovers in particular, will enjoy this coastal region. If you’re going to travel to Sea Island, we at Kiwi Collection recommend checking out either The Cloister at Sea Island or The Lodge at Sea Island. Both are excellent golf and spa hotels for lovers of relaxation.

The Cloister at Sea Island

The Cloister Sea Island Golf Hotel

Perfect for families, honeymooners and world leaders alike, this 175-room hotel is found along the Black Banks River (the Atlantic shore) of the island. Guests here will love the unique coastal setting of this resort, all of the activities and golfing as well as private access to five miles of beach.

You will definitely enjoy the atmosphere of this Sea Island hotel. Think hand-loomed Turkish carpets, gorgeous bed linens and Lady Primrose toiletries. If you’re lucky enough to be in a Premium Suite, you will have 24-hour butler service!

The Beach Club at The Cloister has three pools, an ice cream parlor, a movie theatre, a children’s center and Big George’s oceanfront restaurant.

If you’re looking for something a bit more low key, check out the 65,000 square foot Cloister Spa. Here, you can also get in your yoga or Pilates.

The Lodge at Sea Island Golf Club

The Lodge at Sea Island Resort

This is the perfect Sea Island resort to stay at if you really want a luxurious golf vacation. The level of service is exceptional at The Lodge at Sea Island Golf Club. You will never wait for anything at this hotel.

We think that guests will truly enjoy the décor of this resort, with elegantly appointed antiques, oriental rugs, oversized chairs, exposed beam ceilings and hardwood floors. Be sure to get a chance to take a long bath in one of The Lodge’s deep soaking tubs.

This English-style manor and clubhouse is surrounded by lush greenery and beaches. This hotel is the heart of Sea Island’s golf scene and is situated between the Plantation and Seaside golf courses along the beach.


Get Some Peace and Quiet with L’Hotel Sao Paulo

Wednesday, March 18th, 2009

Find a small slice of peace and quiet in busy Sao Paulo with L’Hoel Sao Paulo. This hotel is perfect if you’re looking for a great hotel for business travelers or if you’re on a shopping vacation.

L'Hotel Sao Paulo Brazil Hotels

Sao Paulo is Brazil’s capital city, and is Brazil’s largest (and wealthiest) city. It’s definitely the type of place for travelers who enjoy big cities and city life! As one of the four largest metropolitan areas of the world, you’ll find Brazil’s best commerce and finance sectors located here, as well as the country’s best arts and entertainment scene.

When traveling to Sao Paulo, we recommend staying at L’Hotel Sao Paulo. This luxury boutique hotel has 68 guest rooms and 7 suites in total. Known for its excellent service, you might feel like this Brazil hotel’s only guest due to its impeccable attention to detail and high standards.

The suites and this Sao Paulo luxury hotel are elegantly decorated. Think everything from 16th-century tapestries, marble and oak furnishings to monogrammed carpets and a British-style piano bar.

Also, L’Hotel Sao Paulo has all the amenities you’ll need if you’re there on business. The hotel actually features a business center as well as meeting and banquet facilities.

L'Hotel Sao Paulo Luxury HotelsOf course, there’s more to do in Sao Paulo than just work. The hotel is located in a really convenient area if you want to explore the city and enjoy some of Brazil’s best shopping! It’s also really close to a slew of great restaurants and (of course) the city’s financial center.

If you want to relax over an excellent breakfast or lunch, check out L’Hotel Sao Paulo’s restaurant. With an intimate European-style park setting, the atmosphere lives up to the high quality food. You will also enjoy the atrium pool area on the roof as well as the sauna and ofuro hot tubs!


Enjoy the Algarve with Vila Joya, Portugal

Monday, March 16th, 2009

Vila Joya is the perfect hotel to stay at if you’re aching for a fine-dining vacation or if you just want a relaxing spa vacation or golf vacation in the Algarve. We truly recommend this boutique hotel for travelers who want to explore the south of Portugal.

Vila Joya Algraves Hotel

What better way is there to relax than by taking a vacation to the south of Portugal? Summer is the perfect time to visit this area, although if you really are in the mood for seclusion, consider visiting during the offseason to minimize the chances that the towns, beaches, shops and restaurants will be crowded.

Regardless of when you choose to travel here, we at Kiwi Collection recommend staying at Vila Joya. This luxurious boutique hotel is found in the Algarve (the southernmost region of Portugal).

This hotel boasts a variety of types and styles of rooms. Of course, we’re always a fan of the best room at the hotel, which is the Deluxe Royal Suite. This room is on the ground floor with a large garden area, a heated pool with built in steam and an open air shower! It also has a spacious living room and eating area, and a large bedroom with a view and an en-suite bathroom with a free-standing tub, separate shower and built-in steam cabin. Two ways to get some steam…that spells relaxation to us.

Vila Joya Luxury Hotel in PortugalThe first stop you should make is this Portugal hotel’s fabulous restaurant. This place is great because of Chef Dieter Koschina. He personally hunts down the best and freshest ingredients which he uses to craft his exciting and refreshing culinary treats.

You might also like Vila Joya’s Wine Cellar. Two cascades of cold water keep the temperature and humidity of the room constant which is perfect for preserving a perfect bottle of wine. The degustation room has a view of the ocean and can seat up to 12 guests at a time. The hotel’s head sommelier and Chef Koschina put together a special wine degustation menu for food and wine lovers to enjoy.

Be sure to also check out this hotel’s relaxing spa, Joy Jung Spa, and the golf courses near by if you want to take some time for yourself.

What a wonderful way to spend some time in Portugal!


Plaza Athenee – A True Paris Experience

Friday, March 13th, 2009

Kiwi Collection CEO Erik Haugen was delighted by his experience and the quality of service at Plaza Athenee in Paris! Plaza Athenee is the perfect hotel to go to if you’re looking for the total Paris experience. Stay here if you’re looking for a romantic getaway.

Hotel Plaza Athenee Paris Hotels

What makes Paris so special? The grand avenues? The beautiful buildings? The fabulous museums? The great restaurants? Well, probably all of those things. But Paris is about a total ‘experience’ and nothing beats the Paris experience than when you stay at one of its top hotels.

At most of Paris’ top hotels (such as Fouquets Barriere, Plaza Athenee, Le Meurice, The Ritz Paris, The Keppler, and L’Hotel) you will find that the comfort, the sense of generosity, the quality and the attention to detail are all often second to none. However there are still many features that differentiate these great hotels from one and other.

Things such as location, design, size (of the public areas) and types of facilities and amenities all help differentiate the hotels from one and other.

On my last visit to Paris I was lucky enough to stay at the Plaza Athenee one of the foremost luxury hotels in Paris. The Plaza Athenee has the reputation for providing a quintessentially French top-end luxury hotel experience, and I have to say they did not disappoint.

In fact they excelled on every key measure of the quality of a hotel experience. Everything from the comfort of the room/bathroom, the service, and the amenities exuded a sense of generosity, attention to detail, and passion.

In addition the Plaza Athenee provided something extra: a sense of familiarity and a sense of confidence in itself that made the experience of staying there seem perfectly natural. Walking down the corridor and opening your room you might feel you are in the (very large) house of a rich relative. The warmth of the décor, the perfect lighting and the friendliness of the staff all lead to a general sense of ease. Plaza Athenee Paris Luxury Hotel

There was always staff on hand ready to help, but they never intruded on a guest or visitor’s personal space. The fact that they could immediately source items such as stockings for my wife, and that they were perfectly comfortable cooking things not on the menu for a mid afternoon snack, all further reinforce the sense of flexibility and the ‘can do’ attitude that is critical in delivering an exceptional hotel experience.

However, the experience was not only about the rooms and the service. The Plaza Athenee experience is one with many dimensions.

Not only do they provide exceptional hospitality but they have a Christian Dior spa, an Alain Ducasse restaurant and the famous Plaza Athenee bar on their premises all of which conspire to make this one of the worlds most well rounded and fulfilling centre-city hotel experiences.

Dinner at the Alain Ducasse restaurant followed by a drink at the Plaza Athenee bar is the perfect way to round off a great day in Paris.

I will remember my stay at the Plaza Athenee this year with great fondness and put it down to the staff and the management who work so hard to make this one of the truly great hotel experiences.

Thank you!


Rejuvenate and Relax with Maia Luxury Resort, Seychelles

Wednesday, March 11th, 2009

Maia Luxury Resort and Spa is the perfect beach resort for an exotic vacation in Seychelles, Africa. You won’t find a better way to relax than by visiting this spa hotel on one of the world’s most untouched island nations.

Maia Mahe Luxury Resort

Where can a discerning traveler enjoy the beach in luxury, but also enjoy the natural beauty of an unspoiled island? The Republic of Seychelles, of course! This stunning country is made of a cluster of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean. About 1,500 km east of mainland Africa, Seychelles is northeast of Madagascar.

Of course, if you’re going to travel to Seychelles, you’ll want to go to Mahé (the largest island). This is where 90 percent of the country’s total population lives. We recommend staying at Maia Luxury Resort and Spa, which is right on Anse Louise beach (a secluded beach on Mahé).

This Mahé resort only has 30 villas, giving guests a unique and intimate experience. Each villa has a fantastic view of the Ocean and features a luxurious gazebo with a thatched roof, a bar and an oversized day bed. Guests also enjoy the services of a private butler, catering to their every need.

Maia Sechelles Luxury ResortAfter a relaxing stroll along the beach or some tanning on the resort’s tanning deck, you will definitely want to visit Maia’s Spa. You can not only enjoy a variety of spa treatments at this gorgeous Seychelles resort, but also catch up on your yoga, shiatsu and qi gong – all exercises that are designed to strengthen the body and bring peace to the mind.

And, no spa vacation is complete without healthy and nutrient-filled meals. All of the cuisine served at Maia is made with the finest and freshest ingredients.

You will eat well, sleep well and find your vacation with Maia totally relaxing and rejuvenating.


Unwind Through Golf with Stoke Park in England

Tuesday, March 10th, 2009

Ideal for a golf getaway, Stoke Park is one of England’s best golf hotels. Be sure to spend a weekend here for some rounds of golf, spa treatments and a generally fun and relaxing time.

Stoke Park Golf Hotel

Spring is fast approaching, and you’re probably planning on taking advantage of the weather as it warms up. Why not spend a relaxing weekend outside with Stoke Park? This luxury golf hotel is the perfect place to go if you want to play a few rounds of golf in the sun shine, or even get in a game of Tennis!

Stoke Park is found on 350 acres of historic parkland and gardens and is close to Heathrow, Windsor and London and has 49 gorgeous rooms that are open to both members of the golf club and non-members. In the mansion house itself, there are 21 bedrooms with many having balconies – which are perfect spots to enjoy your breakfast or a have drink in the evening before dinner.

Stoke Park’s golf course is called Stoke Poges. It was designed by green architect Harry Shapland Colt and is 100 years old! Golf World chose this course to be one of the “Top 100 Courses in the World” in 2005. Enjoy the high quality of the greens which have been impeccably maintained and the traditions, events and atmosphere of such a gorgeous old golf course.
(more…)


Chi the Spa at Shangri-La Offers Kiwi Guests a Special Promotion

Friday, March 6th, 2009

The Shangri-La Vancouver is known as a business traveler’s haven and hot spot for excellent cuisine. But, did you also know that the Shangri-La Vancouver also boasts an excellent Spa: Chi the Spa at Shangri-La?

Chi Spa Shangri La Hotel in Vancouver

The Shangri-La is offering a special promotion for Kiwi Collection members. Guests who ask for the Kiwi Promotion when they book their signature facial or massage treatment will receive a complimentary Spring Skin Body Polish. The promotion runs from March 9 to April 30, 2009 and is perfect for guests who want to feel fresh and rejuvenated right in time for Spring. Call the Spa at Shangri-La directly to book your treatment: (604) 695-2447.

Everyone knows that the Shangri-La Hotel in Vancouver offers world class accommodation with all the amenities you’d expect from a five-star hotel. But, Chi: The Spa at Shangri-La is a little known secret.

That’s why when we here at Kiwi Collection learned that the spa was offering a special promotion to Kiwi Collection members, I had to pay Chi a visit to try one of their signature treatments (and the special body polish) they were offering.

Arriving at the Shangri-La by limo (which you can have that arranged if you call 24 hours in advance), I was immediately greeted by all of the hotel’s friendly and helpful staff, who helped me with my bags and showed me to the fifth floor where Chi was located.

Vancouver Spa Shangri La HotelStepping out of the Shangri-La’s elevator, we walked into a long corridor with the tranquil sound of trickling water over stone. What a great way to start a luxury spa experience! Immediately, my busy day melted away.

I was greeted by a lovely lady named Wendy. She was all knowledgeable about the spa and its various treatments. She offered me some excellent ginger tea with honey, served in traditional cups, and some plush, warm slippers to change in to. I relaxed in the waiting area, taking in my rich surroundings.

The spa itself was gorgeously designed with warm earthy tones and luxurious golds and coppers. I felt as though I was in a Tibetan/Himalayan retreat. It’s the sort of place where time stands still. I could just feel my stress vanishing as I enjoyed my tea (and my slippers).

Wendy asked me to fill out a questionnaire so that she could determine my “element” from various tastes, colours and times of day that I prefer. This is a really important step in the Chi Spa experience because your treatment is based upon your element. Everything from the tea you’re served to the aroma therapy oils and acupressure points used during your massage are based upon your element. There are five different elements: Earth, Fire, Water, Wood and Metal.

As it turned out, I am “Water”. This is a rare element type, explained my therapist. She hadn’t given a massage to a “Water” person since the hotel opened earlier this year. She brought me to my suite where I would be having my massage.
(more…)


The Edgewater in Seattle: Home of the Stars

Friday, March 6th, 2009

The Edgewater in Seattle is perfect for both a romantic getaway or a business trip! Enjoy this fabulous hotel in Seattle the next time you’re on the west coast.

The Edgewater Seattle Hotels

It is always a treat to drive into Seattle, especially when you know you’re staying in Seattle’s only luxury waterfront hotel. The Edgewater is located in the heart of downtown Seattle, providing an unforgettable luxury experience in a prime location. Upon first approach at Pier 67, I was welcomed to the sights and sounds of Elliot Bay, with downtown only footsteps away.

The lobby was sharply designed with a unique and luxuriously artistic flair. Floor to ceiling windows offered a stunning sunset view of the Bay, with the occasional boat passing by. The general feel of the hotel was urban meets nature (featuring knotty-pine furniture and beautiful rock designs).

As I walked into the room, I was once again welcomed by an amazing waterfront view. It took me a moment to realize that my room was literally sitting right over the water! Who knew?

I had a great view of the Bay, and as I got settled, the sun was slowly setting; it was stunning.

The enormous king-sized bed was adorned with cozy overstuffed pillows and a plush duvet featuring a massive flat screen TV at the foot of the bed – perfect for an evening movie. The bathroom sparkled with stainless steel and glass, providing both a clear glass and stone walk in shower, alongside a self-standing elaborate bathtub.

While the gas fireplace was perfectly placed in between two comfy chairs along with the signature bear footrest, I was tempted to sit back and soak it all in, but there was no time – dinner reservations were for 5:30.

My experience at Six Seven, the hotel’s signature restaurant, was by far the highlight of my evening.

The cuisine here is distinctly Pacific Northwest. The restaurant, which features breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, could not be better situated.

Rudy Sharp the GM, and Melanie (server extraordinaire), could not have taken better care of us as we selected and ate our meals. The food here was so delicious I have been thinking about it ever since I left!

The Lobster “Mac and Cheese” kindly brought out to us by Melanie, was likely one of the most delicious sides I have ever tasted. And if it’s drinks you’re after, the wine selection is never-ending, and from what I hear, nationally acclaimed mixologist Brian Van Flandern has recently revamped Six Seven’s cocktail menu as well.

The Edgewater Luxury Seattle HotelsAlthough I wasn’t fortunate enough to stay in the themed Beatle’s Suite, it certainly caught my attention. Room 272, is where the Beatles stayed in 1964 while touring America. The suite itself caters to rock n’ roll fanatics with a fabulous portrait gallery of the Beatles in their early years, memorabilia, Beatles history and of course, Beatles music. The room also features three beautiful bay windows that provide unobstructed views of Seattle’s Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains, but more importantly – the famous “fishing out the window” photo was actually shot in this very suite!

The Edgewater was voted as one of the ‘Best Places to Stay’ by Condé Nast Traveler in 2008, and after staying there, I can see why. Located just blocks from Seattle’s famous Pike Place Market, and Seattle’s Art Museum’s new sculpture Park, I found The Edgewater to be conveniently located and was more than impressed with their kind and thoughtful service.

This Seattle hotel is the perfect spot for a retreat, a romantic getaway, or a business conference. You can be sure you’ll bump into me there in the future!