Archive for May, 2009

Stay for Three Nights for the Price of Two at Solis Cambrian Hotel

Friday, May 29th, 2009

Solis Cambrian Hotel and Spa is the ideal place to stay if you want to enjoy the Swiss Alps and the countryside. This stunning hotel in Switzerland has an exclusive offer running from today to June 30th 2009 – stay for three nights and pay for only two!

Solis Cambrian Hotel and Spa in Switzerland

If you’re taking a vacation to the Swiss Alps, one thing you won’t be able to live without is a fantastic view in a picturesque town. We recommend staying at Solis Cambrian Hotel and Spa on your next trip to Switzerland because it has that stunning view and great location – and a whole lot more.

The hotel is located where mountain sports happen: the mountain village of Adelboden. Adelboden is the home of Alpine skiing and the FIS Ski World Cup.

And, guests to this hotel this summer get a special treat. The hotel has an exclusive offer running all June for Kiwi Collection’s guests: stay for three nights for the price of two!

Guests will get three nights’ accommodation in a room of their choice with complimentary daily alpine breakfast and free use of the Spa Solis (the outdoor pool that boasts stunning views on the Engstligen waterfalls).

At only 71 rooms, this hotel will provide an intimate experience for all who stay there. Better yet, Solis Cambrian Hotel is family friendly and great for kids. They have a kids’ room close to their restaurant that has toys, books, Wii and other fun things for youngsters!

Solis Cambrian Hotel and SpaAdults will appreciate all of the little luxurious details in the rooms from the mountain views to the private balconies and bathrobes. You will also enjoy the complimentary high speed internet, worldwide plasma TVs, DVD systems and the hotel’s movie library.

Try to get a room facing south as they have the best views of the waterfalls and mountains.

After a day hiking in the mountains, relax and unwind at the hotel’s spa. Treat your sore muscles to some TLC by spending some time in the heated outdoor thermal tub or give your feet the gift of the Dr. Kniepp foot treatment.

In the evening, make sure to head to Nova Restaurant. The restaurant has a great view of the mountains and countryside and has some of the best northern Italian cuisine in the area. In the summer, you can dine outside on the terrace!


Monarch Suite Named Middle East’s Leading Hotel Suite

Thursday, May 28th, 2009

Best enjoyed if you are on a relaxing spa or sightseeing vacation, the Monarch Dubai is one of the best hotels in the United Arab Emirates. In fact, its exclusive Monarch Suite was recently recognized as the Middle East’s leading hotel suite. Be sure to book your stay in this room to make your vacation to Dubai extra special.

Monarch Dubai General Manager  For the past 16 years the World Travel Awards have been recognizing the world’s leading airlines, hotel operators, hotel developers, tourism boards, travel media, destination marketing campaigns, MICE businesses and several other companies that make a difference in the quality of travel and tourism.

This year’s poll was the highest in World Travel Awards’ 16-year history, with over 170,000 industry professionals casting their votes for what they consider to be the very best travel and tourism products in the Middle East.

“A lot of hard work and dedication had gone into getting The Monarch Dubai to this stage, where it is being recognized by its industry peers as a leader in its field,” said The Monarch Dubai General Manager, Henning Fries.

“We are absolutely overwhelmed with what we have achieved in the past two years, being recognized for the second consecutive year as the Middle East’s Leading Hotel Suite. This is a huge honour and testament to all of our associates.”
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Stay Close to Home by Vacationing in New England

Wednesday, May 27th, 2009

For vacationers who are trying to stay a bit closer to home this summer, taking a trip to New England might be an excellent option. Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut make up this scenic summer holiday region.  Decide where you want to go by reading about some of New England’s finest inns below!

Hidden Pond:

Hidden Pond in Main

We can’t think of a better way to relax on Maine’s gorgeous coast than at Hidden Pond. This boutique resort is luxuriously rustic. We think you’ll really like the cottages (which feature two bedrooms, a large living room, gas fireplace, fully-equipped kitchen, screened-in porch, and more).

These cottages are designed using soothing colours and earth tones – perfect for getting you in the mood to enjoy the sunshine and your natural surroundings.

There are a lot of things to do at Hidden Pond. Join the watercolour class, pick flowers for your cottage, get in some gardening at the organic vegetable garden or borrow an old-fashioned beach cruiser bike.

There’s also no shortage of great eats around Hidden Pond (from casual clam shacks to waterside bistros to five-diamond dinning). Just ask the staff at the resort for a recommendation.

Homestead Inn:

Homestead Inn

Found in Connecticut, this gorgeous boutique inn is absolutely perfect for vacationers looking for a relaxing holiday away from it all. With only 18 rooms and suites, each room is spacious and accommodating. At the Homestead Inn, you’ll find well designed and laid out spaces and wonderful cuisine. In fact, the inn was purchased over a decade ago to showcase Thomas Henkelmann’s culinary genius and Theresa Henkelmann’s designs.

Theresa Henkelmann has blended old and new seamlessly together at Homestead Inn. No room or suite is the same, and they avoid being too trendy or thematic. You’ll really enjoy the plush King and Queen sized beds (where you can get down pillows if you request them),

Guests who appreciate fine design, fine food and excellent service will love this place.

The Mayflower Inn and Spa:

They Mayflower Inn

Another great hotel in Connecticut is the Mayflower inn and Spa. This intimate Inn is located in Washington (only two hours away from New York City) and feels more like a big country house than a hotel. Restored to highlight its 18th century charm, you’ll find that the elegant rooms overlook perfectly manicured lawns and gardens – ideal for a relaxing escape.

Each of the Inn’s 30 guest rooms are uniquely decorated so that each guest has an individual experience. Like the Homestead Inn, no two rooms here are the same!  Outside of the hotel, the gardens and surrounding countryside provide a serene and relaxing environment for enjoying the sunshine, taking a stroll and indulging in some much needed peace and quiet.

In addition to this hotel’s full-service spa, guests will really enjoy all of the outdoor activities there are to do here: hiking, biking, kayaking, bird watching and more! For indoor types, you’ll love the hotel’s library.

Pitcher Inn:

The Pitcher Inn

If you’re in Vermont, the best place to stay is The Pitcher Inn. This historical country home is perfect for vacationers looking for a great culinary retreat, or for couples seeking a relaxing and romantic vacation spot.

The Pitcher Inn has been welcoming guests for more than 150 years. With only 11 rooms at this property, you can’t get a more intimate environment. While each room is different, all carry through a common Vermont theme.

The Inn is a member of “Vermont Fresh Network”, which means it is committed to using the freshest local and regional ingredients available in all of its meals. The menu at The Pitcher Inn is therefore totally seasonal, and you’ll find that the special dishes of the day are based on what was freshest at the local market.

After a day spent relaxing and enjoying the scenery at this picturesque Vermont hotel, check out The Alta Day Spa, which is close to the Inn.

Chatham Bars Inn:

Chatham Bars Inn

Maybe you’re looking for a hotel that’s a bit bigger and right by the ocean? The Chatham Bars Inn is perfect if you’re in the mood for a classy sea-side vacation this summer.

This Cape Cod landmark first opened its doors in 1914, and occupies a quarter mile of private beach. Recently restored to capture its original grandeur, the main inn is comprised of gorgeous guestrooms with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean.  The resort also has newer cottages around the property.

Guests can go on excursions to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket on one of the resort’s private boats.

Other activities include offshore and deep sea fishing, enjoying the swimming pool, guided walks, whale watching, barrier beach walks, tennis, croquet and biking.

You’ll love the signature New England cuisine served at the restaurants at the Chatham Bars Inn. Go to the Main Dining Room for an elegant meal where you can enjoy the view of the water. The Tavern is a cozy, comfortable bar and The Beach House Grill is the best place to go for summer luncheons, clambakes and beach parties.

Chanler at Cliff Walk:

The Chanler at Cliff Walk

A lot of people enjoy visiting picturesque Rhode Island in the summer – and who can blame them. The smallest of the U.S. states, you’re never too far from the water here. It truly earns its nickname “The Ocean State”.

We think the best place to stay for a relaxing summer vacation on Rhode Island is The Chanler at Cliff Walk. This historical, boutique inn features real New England elegance with a traditional design. Guests will love the location of this hotel, as well, as the The Chanler is situated on Newport’s famous Cliff Walk.
You can tour Newport’s historic mansions, dine in the area’s best restaurants enjoy the area’s events, golf, tennis and wine-tasting.

The atmosphere here is truly intimate. With only 20 rooms, all of which are uniquely designed to reflect a historical period or theme, you will love the original oil paintings and antiques used to set the mood.

Make sure you have dinner at The Spiced Pear Restaurant at the Inn. They use fresh seasonal ingredients from New England and you’ll get to sit on the outdoor terrace, right in front of the Ocean, to enjoy the warm summer breeze.


Take Your Honeymoon to Crete with St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel

Tuesday, May 26th, 2009

St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel and Villas is ideal for couples on their honeymoon and people seeking a romantic Greek getaway. Ask for the Kiwi Rate when booking this hotel and receive a complimentary upgrade (when available), a bottle of sparkling wine, complimentary breakfast, early check-in and late check-out as well as a welcome drink for two.

St. Nicholas Bay Hotel in Greece

There is nowhere on earth as beautiful as the Mediterranean in the summer. If you can steal away for a beach vacation, your best bet is to head to the Greek islands. Crete, in particular, is a nice place to visit.

One of the best places to stay on the island of Crete is St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel and Villas. We think you’ll love this intimate boutique hotel and its fabulous view of the Gulf of Mirabello Bay and Aghios Nikolaos.

The buildings at this beach resort are white washed in traditional Greek style. All 107 guest rooms are cool and airy with panoramic views of the sea. The rooms are decorated simply with Mediterranean accents.

Make sure to take some time to relax on the balconies or garden terraces. Simple, quiet and a great place to get some sun, they are the perfect oasis away from it all to let go of your stress and enjoy the ocean breeze.

There’s no shortage of ways to spend your time at this gorgeous resort in Greece. Spend some time in the two outdoor sea water swimming pools. Improve your tan by taking it easy on the sun beds, or learn how to water ski, wind surf or canoe at the Water Sports Center.
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The Joule Hotel in Dallas is a Designer’s Dream

Monday, May 25th, 2009

The Joule in Dallas, Texas, is the perfect hotel if you’re a design fanatic wanting to experience the newest and trendiest hotel in the city. The hotel calls the Dallas National Bank Building its home, and after the building was essentially robbed of its Gothic features in the 50’s, it has now been restored to its original grandeur, much to the delight of both locals and tourists!

The Joule Hotel in Dallas

Dallas is one of Texas’ most exciting towns. On your next trip to this bustling American city, consider staying at The Joule. This intimate design hotel is stunning on both the inside and the outside, thanks to a recent restoration project.

The hotel is in the Dallas National Bank Building. Constructed in 1927, this building was one of the finest examples of Gothic revival high-rise buildings in Dallas (and a major milestone in the architectural development of Dallas’ skyline). After extensive renovations of the building in the 50’s, though, almost none of its original allure remained.

Luckily for Dallas residents and travelers alike, the building was restored a few years ago using original architectural drawings to reconstruct the building’s façade, main entrance and Gothic details. Tihany Design brought contemporary sophistication to all of the internal spaces at the hotel, including the striking lobby of the 10-story tower.

This hotel in Dallas is located in the vibrant Main Street District– right in the hear t of downtown where all the great shopping and restaurants are. You’ll love the guest rooms. With only 129 suites in total, you’ll have a totally unique and intimate experience.

With an inventive décor, you’ll love the deep blue, gray and burgundy palette, featuring black and white photos of downtown Dallas specially commissioned for the hotel.

The Joule HotelEven though there are a wide range of excellent restaurants in the area, be sure to try The Joule’s restaurant. Headed by Chef Charlie Palmer, we think you’ll really enjoy his American cuisine in this eclectic and lively restaurant.

A new feature of this hotel is the Next Vintage Wine Store. It’s a temperature-controlled, 13-foot high glass and polished steel showcase in the hotel’s lobby. Here, you can enjoy the elite collection of food-savvy wine, handpicked by Chef Palmer and the hotel’s sommeliers, rotating a selection of about 250 fine wines.

At Next Vintage you can purchase wines before they are released at a discount or ask the sommeliers to help you find a wine that you’re looking for. Also, on Wednesdays, you can attend a wine tasting here to learn more about wine from the hotel’s top sommeliers.


Free Caribbean Weddings at Ritz Carlton Hotels

Friday, May 22nd, 2009

It’s the dream of many a bride-to-be to have the wedding in a gorgeous tropical paradise. Well, that dream can turn into reality with a little help from some of the Ritz-Carlton’s top hotels. The Ritz-Carlton’s “Reconnect package” offers complimentary wedding ceremonies and a complimentary three-night stay for your first anniversary! Be sure to book this offer before it expires on June 30, 2009.

Ritz-Carlton Cancun WeddingAre you as excited as we are?

We just learned that some of the Ritz-Carlton’s finest luxury hotels in the Caribbean and Mexico are offering a special package this year for couples who want to have their ceremony in a tropical paradise.

Couples will get a free wedding ceremony in addition to a complimentary three-night stay during their first anniversary when booking a wedding on the “Reconnect” package. (Reconnect Rates start at $439 per night).

Participating hotels in our collection are:

The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun
The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman
The Ritz-Carlton Golf and Spa Resort in Rose Hall Jamaica
The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan Hotel, Spa and Casino

The Complimentary Wedding Offer includes:

Ceremony Location
Wedding Specialist
Wedding Concierge
Minister
Signature Bouquet
Signature Boutonniere
Signature Location Décor
Complimentary three-night first anniversary stay, redeemable at any Ritz Carlton hotel or resort in the Caribbean or Mexico

Caribbean Weddings at the Ritz-CarltonSo what do you have to do?

If you want to take advantage of this offer, book your wedding before the offer expires on June 30, 2009. Your wedding can take place any time between May 1 and December 20, 2009.

You and your guests will need to stay for a minimum of three nights, and you’ll need to book a minimum of 25 rooms or more to be eligible for the offer.


Resort at Paws Up is the Perfect Place to “Glamp”

Friday, May 22nd, 2009

Want to explore the great outdoors and sleep under the stars, but can’t go without creature comforts? Welcome to the world of Glam Camping, or “Glamping”, at The Resort at Paws Up in Montana. Glamping is ideal for those who only want to sleep under ‘five stars’.

The Resort at Paws Up in Montana

The Resort at Paws Up’s River Camp offers six riverside luxury tents perfect for Glamping. These tents are unlike anything you have ever seen before. They feature all of your creature comforts and more, including super comfortable beds with fluffy, sumptuous bedding (unlike the standard flannel sleeping bag). Tents also include all the electricity one would need, a spacious deck perfect for lounging, private master bathroom and your own personal butler (maybe to fetch the marshmallows?).

Put down the hotdogs because all guests will enjoy fabulous, world-class cuisine at The Dining Pavilion, where every meal brings new adventure. Local ingredients are featured, so the meals change just like the seasons.
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Madrid’s Hotel Villa Magna is the Star of the City

Thursday, May 21st, 2009

Stay at Hotel Villa Magna in Madrid, Spain, for a luxurious shopping vacation. This hotel is also perfect for guests who are traveling to Madrid to enjoy the city’s amazing art scene and museums, due to its central location.

Villa Magna Hotel in Spain

Elegant, charming and full of luxury boutiques and great museums and galleries, Madrid is one of the most interesting cities in Spain. All roads lead here for a reason!

During your next trip to Madrid, we highly recommend that you stay at Hotel Villa Magna – one of Spain’s best hotels.

Traditional in style and boutique in size, Hotel Villa Magna really gets luxury accommodation. Combining old-world charm with modern elegance, advanced technology and top notch service, this hotel will definitely meet your expectations.

With 150 rooms, Hotel Villa Magna is found in Madrid’s most sophisticated area: Salamanca. This is the heart of Madrid – smack dab in the middle of the city’s financial and cultural districts. The area is well known for its exclusive boutiques, museums and sites. Just crossing an inner courtyard leads to a five-floor shopping area in Corte Ingles (Madrid’s most luxurious store).

Rooms are decorated with subtle colors and come equipped with everything you’ll need to make your stay pleasant. All rooms have individual safes and soundproofed windows (which can be opened if you need some fresh air).
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Stars from “The Hills” spotted at Shutters on the Beach

Wednesday, May 20th, 2009

Perfect for romance and family vacations, Shutters on the Beach made a guest appearance on “The Hills” on Monday night. This gorgeous California hotel was where a very nervous Spencer Pratt met his fiancé’s gun wielding father, Bill, for the very first time.

Restaurant on the Hills - Shutters on the Beach

If you’ve ever had to ask a cowboy for your girlfriend’s hand in marriage, you’ll know what “The Hills” reality TV star Spencer Pratt was up against. On Monday night’s episode of the Hills, Pratt was tasked with asking Heidi Montag’s father, Bill, for permission to marry his daughter.

Pratt was no prat: he picked a good spot to meet Heidi’s dad. The eager couple met Mr. Montag at Coast, the restaurant at Shutters on the Beach, for brunch – a very classy spot if you ask us. And, after reminding the young suitor that the code of the west states that you must look out for your family, Montag asked Pratt to bond with him over some gun shooting. Now that’s progress!

Could it be that Montag was impressed with Pratt’s personality? Oh right…silly us…what personality?

We think that it was the restaurant and hotel that brought a curl to this straight shooter’s lips, getting him to drop his guard (and his shot gun) and ultimately approve the union between Sir Pratt and Lady Montag.

It’s no secret why this gem of a hotel was featured on “The Hills”. Its central location makes for some pretty easy access to Los Angeles premier galleries, museums and attractions. You’re also steps from the City of Angel’s most interesting neighbourhoods.

Shuttes on the Beach's Restaurant: One PicoShutters on the Beach is one of L.A.’s top hotels. Elegant, cool, unpretentious and boasting panoramic views of the Ocean, you’d be hard pressed to find someone who could say no to you in this stunning location.

Coast, the restaurant that was featured on the Hills, has majestic views of the Ocean. This beach front cafe has a great, fresh menu. With a classy, contemporary Mediterranean look , will you’ll make a great first impression, regardless of how much of a goof you actually are.

Just ask Spencer!

It’s the perfect hangout for the rich, famous and glamorous. Stay here to see the stars, enjoy the Ocean breeze and, of course, to woo your very scary potential father-in-law to agree to your wedding plans.


Villa Maria Cristina is One of Mexico’s Top Boutique Hotels

Wednesday, May 20th, 2009

Perfect for guests who are seeking a great boutique hotel in Mexico, or a wonderful romantic vacation, Villa Maria Cristina is the jewel of Guanajuato, Mexico. Stay here if you want to experience one of Mexico’s best hotels.

Villa Maria Cristina Hotel in Guanajuato

“Intimate” is a perfect word to describe Villa Maria Cristina. With only 13 rooms, this luxury hotel in Mexico is one of the smallest in the area. It may be small, but this hotel is big on personality.

Guests will love the spacious suites throughout the house. With high ceilings, large windows, wooden floors and beautiful dark wood furniture, the sophisticated and romantic atmosphere is to die for! In addition, you can kick back and relax in a whirlpool or steam bath in your suite’s washroom. You’ll feel like you’re in a private mansion.

And, if the rooms sound nice, wait to see some of the public spaces at the hotel. You’ll notice that no detail has been left unattended. The hotel has quite a bit of aristocratic charm, with terracotta colored walls, floors with inlaid mosaics and plant-filled corridors. Especially romantic are the wrought-iron lamps and water features.
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Taste Wine in the Caribbean with Sivory Punta Cana

Tuesday, May 19th, 2009

It’s not often that you get to mix sand and wine, especially if you’re vacationing in the Caribbean. That’s what makes Sivory Punta Cana so special, in our books. With more than 8,000 bottles of wine from all over the world, you’ll be able to enjoy a glass of some of the world’s rarest vintages on your beach vacation.

Sivory Punta Cana Resort in the Dominican Repulblic

If you’re a wine lover, vacations in the Caribbean can be a little tough. Known for their rum, the Caribbean islands are not so spot on when it comes to wine. But this is what makes Sivory Punta Cana so unique (and what makes it one of the best hotels in the Dominican Republic).

Sivory’s owner, Manel Vallet considers wine one of his own personal passions. And, because of his love for vino, he’s established a wine library of more than 8,000 bottles from 300 vintages (of all types: red, white, rose, sparkling and champagne).

Guests at the hotel will truly love this global wine selection, with some of the most interesting labels including:
o    Chateau Petrus, 1992
o    Chateau Lafite Rothschild, 1998
o    Vega Sicilia Unico, 1989
o    Opus One Mondavi, 2001
o    Moet Chandon Mathusalem, 1998
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Say “I do” at The Ritz-Carlton, Sanya

Monday, May 18th, 2009

The Ritz-Carlton, Sanya is the perfect place to say “I do”. This hotel in Sanya is the first to offer an intimate, chic wedding chapel overlooking the sea. Leave your “everyday” behind, and discover this gorgeous hotel, where majestic mountains share the landscape with miles of secluded beaches, rainforests and the pristine South China Sea!

Chapel at the Ritz-Carlton, Sanya

Located on China’s most secluded beach (known as the “Oriental Hawaii”), The Ritz-Carlton, Sanya is the ultimate escape for both luxury travelers and honeymooners alike.

This luxury hotel features 450 beautifully designed guestrooms, including suites and private villas – which offer incomparable privacy. All the spectacular villas are surrounded by lush tropical gardens and offer sparkling private plunge pools and outdoor salas – perfect for lazing the day away.

Suites and guestrooms feature views of Yalong Bay or views of the resort’s well manicured gardens. And, for newlyweds or honeymooners, you can’t forget the champagne served alongside chocolate-dipped strawberries (for a perfect night of relaxation and romance).

After indulging in some of Sanya’s best cuisine at one of the hotel’s eight restaurants, unwind in the resort’s ESPA.

With such treatments as Golfers Restore, Traditional Zen Journey, and The Brightening Ritual, ESPA’s treatments are inspired by Chinese tradition created specifically for The Ritz-Carlton, Sanya. With the spa on the other end of the resort from the villas, what better way is there to arrive for your treatment than by being chauffeured by your own personal butler?

Ritz-Carlton Sanya Hotel in ChinaAnother unique feature is the resort’s on-hand Romanceologist, who will be available to help organize many unforgettable “I love you” moments for newlyweds.  Be sure to make an appointment to take advantage of this unique and highly romantic service.

Honeymooning can be spent relaxing around one of the resort’s four oversized pools, exploring Yalong Bay’s pristine white sand beach or enjoying a pampering treatment at the ESPA.

For active couples, the hotel has a professional scuba diving and water sports centre, two tennis courts with night lighting, mountain bike rental services, a full-service gymnasium and two championship golf courses within minutes.


Hotel Zaza Houston Invites You to Celebrate its Urban Oasis

Friday, May 15th, 2009

Hotel Zaza Houston is the perfect place to stay if you want to party in style during your vacation in Houston. If you’re lucky enough to be staying here this weekend, take advantage of this Houston hotel’s H2 OH! Urban Oasis Package – a fun, funky poolside weekend.

Hotel Zaza Houston

Found right in the heart Houston, Texas, Hotel Zaza Houston is situated in the city’s fine museum district. It’s THE place to see and been seen, especially this weekend!

Starting tonight, Hotel Zaza Houston is showing off its “wet-n’wild” side with its H2 OH! Urban Oasis package. The package, designed to celebrate the spring debut of the hotel’s luxury pool retreat, Urban Oasis, starts at $129 per night for a standard room.

Guests taking advantage of the package will have exclusive access to all of the weekend’s events, as well as an Urban Oasis Swag Bag.

The Swag Bag containing everything you’ll need for a weekend by the pool: sunscreen, lip protection, bronzers, ZaSpa product samples, a 20% percent discount at the ZaSpa and $50 ZaZa Bucks for a future stay at the hotel.

Tonight, the weekend kicks off with a Fire & Ice Poolside Soiree. Enjoy the first drink on the house, and celebrate with an evening full of frozen drinks, fire and tribal go-go dancers and DJ Jesse James’ beats.

On Saturday, enjoy all of the exclusive poolside activities (from Wii games to hula hoops and beach balls). Indulge with drinks and complimentary samples from the ZaSpa Café’s new menu at the Urban Oasis bar.

Recover on Sunday with oxygen therapy and a Bloody Mary Bar and Mimosas (starting at 10 am.).

Pool at Hotel Zaza in Houston Hotel ZaZa Houston is a design hotel, featuring 315 rooms and suites: ZaZaq Petites, Pool Bungalows, Pool Villas, Concept Suites and The Magnificent Seven Suites. Guests will love Monarch, the hotel’s restaurant, and the extremely zen ZaSpa.

Also, if you’re visiting Dallas, be sure to check out check out Hotel Zaza Houston’s sister hotel, Hotel Zaza Uptown Dallas. This Dallas gem is found right in the heart of the city – among the best restaurants, shops and museums.


Plan Your Next Vacation Around Gordon Ramsay’s Hellish Kitchens

Thursday, May 14th, 2009

It’s a sad day for fans of Gordon Ramsay’s “Hell’s Kitchen”, with the season five’s finale tonight. But we at Kiwi Collection know that the fun doesn’t stop here. If you’re a real fan of Gordon Ramsay and his food, try some of his famous restaurants around the world. If you’re lucky, you’ll score a seat at his trademark “Chef’s Table”, where a small number of guests get a front row seat in the kitchen to enjoy the banter as the world’s top chefs prepare their exquisite cuisine.

Conrad Tokyo:

The Conrad Hotel in Tokyo

So you’ve always wanted to travel to Tokyo, but you didn’t want to miss an episode of Hell’s Kitchen during your vacation. Please. The 3-star Michelin chef is big in Japan too. So big that he has his very own restaurant at the Conrad Tokyo.

Found on the 28th floor of this stunning hotel, guests enjoy a truly spectacular view of the city through the 7-metre floor-to-ceiling windows. You’ll love Ramsy’s modern French cuisine and his trademark “Chef’s Table”, where up to eight guests can get a front row seat in the kitchen.

Open for lunch and dinner, Gordon Ramsay at Conrad Tokyo was awarded a star by the Michelin Guide Tokyo 2009.

Claridge’s:

Claridge's Hotel

What better spot is there to get a taste of Gordon Ramsay than London, England. This is where Ramsay really started to take off in his career.

During your next trip to London, you might want to consider staying at Claridge’s, a grand, historical hotel featuring Gordon Ramsay at Claridge’s. Full of art deco features, you will love the comfortable, classy décor.

You’ll also love all of Ramsay’s classic European dishes.

Reservations are a must when it comes to dining at Gordon Ramsay at Claridge’s, so be sure to call or email in advance (reservations@gordonramsay.com). You can also arrange a more private dining experience as the restaurant has some private dining rooms available.

The Berkeley Hotel:

The Berkeley Hotel

Maybe you’re more inclined to stay in Knightsbridge (one of London’s most interesting residential areas, featuring some of the city’s most exclusive shopping). Never fear! Gordon Ramsay has a restaurant here too!

Stay at the Berkeley hotel and enjoy your meals at Ramsay’s Boxwood Café, his take on upscale New York cafes. Here, you’ll enjoy a relaxed English garden atmosphere – really different than the typical London restaurant scene.

All of the dishes are made of locally-sourced seasonal ingredients, and you’ll get a real “British” experience a la New York. Like his restaurant at Claridge’s, you can arrange for private dining if you’re so inclined, for parties of between 12 and 16 guests.

One&Only Cape Town

One and Only Cape Town

One&Only Cape Town is close to the Table Mountain, the water and, of course, Gordon Ramsay’s Maze Restaurant – his first in Africa, and one of his newest establishments!

Maze opened in April, and seats up to 170 guests. The dishes are tasting-sized, but truly encapsulate big South African flavours. At Maze, you’ll enjoy the best in local seafood and game, as well as organic produce from South African Farms. You’ll also find the country’s largest and most innovative collection of South African wines at Maze, and the open kitchen.

Feast in the kitchen to catch a glimpse of the restaurant’s imported broiler from America – the only one in the country – which exposes steaks to a temperature of 650 degrees Celsius, a signature trait of Maze-style cuisine.

Trianon Palace Versailles

Trainon Palace and Spa in Versailles

Fine French food in France? What a novel idea. Trianon Palace Versailles is an exceptional retreat, only 20 KM from Paris (and right in the heart of historical Versailles). If that isn’t enough to get you there, than knowing that Gordon Ramsay Au Trianon is located here might give you an extra push.

This fine dining restaurant features contemporary French and European cuisine, a great wine list and one of Ramsay’s fascinating Chef’s tables. This table seats six guests, and you’ll see plenty of fireworks from Ramsay’s staff of expert chefs.

Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt

The Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt

We featured the Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt yesterday on the jetsetter because we believe this is one of the best hotels in Ireland.

But we have to mention it again in this article because Gordon Ramsay at Powerscourt is a big part of what makes this hotel great.

His first signature restaurant in Ireland, you’ll get great views and fabulous French and European cuisine here. This restaurant also features one of Ramsay’s legendary Chef’s tables in the kitchen. Make sure you get a seat at it.


Hang Out with Gordon Ramsay at The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt

Wednesday, May 13th, 2009

If you’re a fan of the show “Hell’s Kitchen”, then you’ll also be a fan of The Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt, County Wicklow, home of “Gordon Ramsay at Powerscourt” the master chef’s very own restaurant in Ireland. Stay at this luxurious hotel in Ireland for the great food and the great golfing.

rc-powerscourt-hotel-exterior-8

Found on the lush east coast of Ireland, The Ritz Carlton Powerscourt Hotel is the place to stay if you’re in the mood for a relaxing spring golf excursion, or a not-so-relaxing yelling match with Chef Gordon Ramsay and/or his disciples. This gorgeous estate is tucked in the woodlands of County Wicklow, a peaceful, quiet area in the world’s greenest country and home to some of the world’s finest cuisine.

With 200 guest rooms in total (124 suites and 23 club-level rooms), you’ll have no problem finding a room that suites your needs. Rooms are an average size of 700 square feet (some of the largest hotel rooms in Ireland), and feature floor to ceiling windows, gorgeous views of the countryside and terraces so you can enjoy the fresh air.

No trip to The Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt is complete without a meal or three at Gordon Ramsay at Powerscourt. The restaurant opened in October 2007 and is Ramsay’s first signature restaurant in Ireland. Found on the third floor of the hotel, the restaurant seats 82 guests and offers quite astounding views of the hotel’s surroundings. If you’re at the hotel in the summer, take advantage of the terrace, which seats 48.
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