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Palihouse Holloway, West Hollywood

Los Angeles hotels are plentiful, and often make every attempt to capture a “cool factor” that hasn’t yet been achieved.  We were excited about experiencing the Palihouse Holloway in West Hollywood, as we knew it wasn’t going to be just another L.A. hotel.  A property with only 37 rooms can certainly have its benefits, but we’ve also learned that smaller hotels can sometimes be lacking in the expenditure department, some offering fewer service and amenities than larger scale hotels.  Let’s just say that Palihouse surpassed our every expectation, and restored our faith in the ability for boutique hotels to really deliver an experience which exceeds that of its larger hotel counterparts.

Perhaps the best way to describe Palihouse’s feel is ” pied-a-terre” the French expression for “second residence.”  In fact, Palihouse was designed as an all suite residential-style concept hotel, and they’ve done it in a way that would even impress the folks at Architectural Digest.  Whether you’re staying for one night, or one year, Palihouse gives you that high-end residential feel while also preserving all that’s good about a luxurious hotel stay.

The Arrival Experience:

Upon arriving Palihouse, you are welcomed by an unimposing lobby space complete with eclectic yet tasteful designer furnishings.  The lobby feels more like a living room area, and that’s really the whole point.  The reception area (or front desk at most hotels) is intimate in design, and intended for a very personal check-in process.  We noticed the lobby staff that was eager to help at all times, whether it was fetching a cool cocktails or assisting us with connecting to the complimentary wireless internet.

Evenings and weekends are often filled with a-list celebs, and L.A.’s most fashionable, but in a very understated exclusive way.  Never did we feel put off as some might feel at other “hot spot” hotels throughout Los Angeles, rather the hotel takes a very sensible approach by maintaining a low key vibe even when very busy.

Palihouse Lobby Area

“The Hall, Courtyard Brasserie” Restaurant


Let’s talk about the guest suites:

Palihouse offers 37 Guest Suites in Total ranging from 600-2000 square feet. All guest suite areas are accessible only by a remote key fob, a nice touch which adds to the privacy factor. Classic Guest Suites, located in the front side of the hotel, offer a generously sized layout with 1 King Bed and a Kitchenette.  Corner King Suites are also located in the front of the hotel, and offer a prime over sized corner location with a separated living room and small kitchen area.  Studio, One-Bedroom and Two-Bedroom Residences are all located in the rear of the hotel and offer true residential-style floor plans with lofted ceilings, full kitchens and outdoor terraces.  All guest suites feature a stunning decor with individual touches that reflect the style of a truly discerning city dweller.

Corner King Suite (Room Number 404)

Loft Residences feature condo-style comforts including Full Kitchens, Hardwood Flooring, Outdoor Terraces as well as high ceilings.  These room types are ideal for extended stays, but are also wonderful for shorter weekend/weeknight getaways.

One-Bedroom Loft Residence, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 311)

Two-Bedroom Loft Residence, 2 King Beds (Room Number 319)

All Palihouse guest suites feature large bathrooms, most with over sized walk-in showers, and some with shower/tub combinations or separate showers and bathtubs.  Loft residences feature one full bathroom as well as a 1/2 bath in the main living room area.  Amenities in all accommodations include fully stocked kitchens as well as in-room laundry machines.

What we really liked about Palihouse:

  • Chic, yet understated guest room experience
  • Complimentary parking & internet for every room type
  • Large guest rooms
  • Large guest bathrooms (most with walk-in showers)
  • Personalized experience
  • “The Hall, Courtyard Brasserie” Restaurant, It was truly one of our favorite hotel restaurants (a must try)

Hotels are all about the experience, and Palihouse has done an extraordinary job at creating a hotel experience that is both luxurious and not so hotel like.  Palihouse offers a highly sought after central West Hollywood location, and a design scheme that rivals most hotels we’ve seen.  For those who seek something truly unique, stylish and out of the ordinary, Palihouse is your L.A. address.

Posted March 15th, 2010 by: Trip Kick Editor under Los Angeles, New Hotel or Resort

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The new JW Marriott at L.A. LIVE, Downtown L.A.

The JW Marriott at L.A. LIVE has just opened as a part of a multi-use development which includes the JW, The Ritz-Carlton (opening later this month) as well as The Ritz-Carlton Residences.  Downtown was definitely missing a luxury hotel development, and this one is certain to impress.

The JW Marriott has 878 Guest Rooms and Suites in total, making it a large property but one that also feels more intimate than your typical convention hotel.  Speaking of typical, the JW is anything but; this property is a complete departure from anything you might expect from the Marriott brand.  Absent are the classic reds and traditional pasley’s.  The JW Marriott at L.A. LIVE has taken on a very contemporary feel, with an expansive & hip lobby space, cool fresh accommodations and a long list of resort style amenities and services.  The JW is located at L.A. LIVE which is downtown’s newest entertainment complex, featuring the Nokia Theater, Regal Cinemas as well as Staples Center.  As a guest of the JW, you’ll never be at a loss for entertainment options.

JW Marriott at L.A. LIVE features an jaw dropping lobby experience, appointed in bright yet sophisticated tones and offers a unique vantage point which views the Nokia Theater on one side, and the downtown skyline on the other.  The theme is both upbeat and modern, and you’ll quickly learn you’ve chosen the right place to stay.

Earlier this week, we had a brief opportunity to view some guest rooms and suites at JW, and we’re excited to share our report with you.  The guestroom hallways are adorned with a playful palette of colors, and the windows from the elevator area are a reminder of where you are, downtown!  The standard guest rooms or “Deluxe Category” offer plenty of space and feature a very luxurious yet fun furniture setup.  The entrances feature a bright orange credenza, something you won’t see at your average Marriott hotel.  Everything from the bedding experience to the furnishings are upscale and represent an emphasis on the contemporary flare this hotel is trying to deliver.  Yes, perhaps the design is a bit more conservative than some boutique hotels you may have encountered (such as The Standard Downtown) but in our opinion it’s more inviting and comfortable, and certainly more practical.  Bathrooms are quite large, and feature a spacious  walk-in shower (no tubs in most)  If a separate shower and tub is important, you may want to wait for The Ritz-Carlton to open, which is likely to offer larger bathrooms with separate showers and tubs.  The JW is shaped like  “T” and offers views in all directions, although the downtown views are probably our favorite.  Some guest rooms offer views of the Hollywood sign.

Deluxe Category Room, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 1972)  Views of Nokia Theater

The Executive King Category Rooms offer quite a bit more space in an open floor plan design; these rooms also feature wonderful direct views of downtown (a wonderful view at night!)  Jr. Suite Category Rooms feature a corner location with only a bit more space than the Executive Rooms (we honestly thought the Executive Rooms were a bit nicer…)  The hotel notes that Jr. Suites are ideal for families, as the entryway is large enough to accommodate a roll away bed and keeps the kids somewhat separate from the main area of the room.

Executive King Category Room  (Room Number 649)

Jr. Suite Category Room, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 667)

Some features are shared by both properties, however The Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott each offer their own pool area.  The JW’s main pool area is located on the 4th Floor, and offers a resort-like feel, a well designed space for a city hotel.  The JW also offers an expansive fitness center and spa (the spa has not yet opened) located on the 2nd Floor.

This was a first look at the JW Marriott at L.A. LIVE, and we look forward to our next visit.  Downtown Los Angeles has changed dramatically over the past few years, and this project represents the direction of this change.  We were truly impressed by this JW and hope that it’s representative of the type of design we’ll see in other Marriott hotels and resorts in years to come.

Stay tuned for detailed guest room information on TripKick.com!


Posted March 3rd, 2010 by: admin under Los Angeles, New Hotel or Resort

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Renovations Complete @ Four Seasons Chicago & The Ritz-Carlton Chicago

Four Seasons Chicago, Lobby Experience

Chicago is well known for its luxury hotels, as the Windy City is home to the Four Seasons Chicago, The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, Peninsula Chicago and numerous others.  The Four Seasons Chicago and The Ritz-Carlton Chicago are sister properties, both located off Chicago’s Magnificent Mile (Michigan Avenue)  Although normally competitors, these two hotels enjoy a unique relationship as they are both managed by Four Seasons (a relationship started when Four Seasons founder Isadore Sharp licensed Ritz Carlton’s name for his first U.S. property)  Both hotels have recently unveiled renovations that have added contemporary touches while preserving their timeless elegance and unparalleled reputation.

Four Seasons Chicago:

The Four Seasons Chicago offers a unique guest room experience, with guest rooms occupying floors 32-46 (an almost unseen feature, as most newer hotels position guest rooms on lower floors, and residences on higher floors)  Regardless of where you are in the hotel, you are certain to benefit from a stellar view.  We were particularly pleased with our lake & Michigan Avenue view (which can enjoyed in most Odd Numbered Rooms)  Deluxe Four Seasons Executive Suites, Located in the “25″ series of the hotel, offer perhaps the very best views in the hotel.

Four Seasons Chicago has transformed the guest room experience into something more contemporary (from its once more traditional past) offering a warm array of colors and smart furnishings.  Perhaps our favorite feature (which can be experienced in any Four Seasons hotel) is the oh so comfortable bed.  What’s better than a truly divine bed?… How about a divine bed with a view?  Four Seasons Executive Suites and Deluxe Executive Suites feature a larger layout with a separate living room and bedroom area.  If you’re traveling with your family, be certain to request an Executive Suite on Floors 30 or 31, as select suites feature unique floor plans with Kitchens as well as 1.5 baths.  These floors were also last to be renovated, and feature a different decor from the rest of the hotel. (See photos below)

Four Seasons Executive Suite, 1 King Bed, Separate Living Room & Bedroom Area  (Room Number 3111)

Four Seasons Executive Suite, Lake & City View  (Room Number 3111)

The Four Seasons Chicago features an unrivaled guest room experience (perhaps with the exception of The Ritz-Carlton Chicago) as well as a long list of amenities and services designed for the savvy business or leisure traveler.  Among the many features you may enjoy include an expansive Fitness Center & Spa, Indoor Pool, Elevator Access to the adjacent 900 Shops Mall as well as Season Restaurant.

Detailed Guest Room Information @ TripKick.com

The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, a Four Seasons Hotel:

The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, located just across the street from the Four Seasons, offers a luxurious hotel experience with a more traditional approach.  Guest rooms have been modified with a more contemporary scheme, however they still retain a more conservative (albeit indulgent) design.  Guest rooms also benefit from fantastic views (perhaps more Lake oriented than the Four Seasons guest rooms) Similarities include the Four Seasons Bed, as well as all of the other amenities you will find at the Ritz-Carlton’s sister property.  While the Four Seasons felt more understated (and perhaps even a bit more quiet & private), The Ritz-Carlton offers an expansive lobby with a traditional layout.

Guest Rooms Ending in 01-07 as well as 29-33 Feature spectacular Lake Views.

Detailed Guest Room Information @ TripKick.com

Ritz-Carlton Suite, 1 King Bed, Separate Living & Bedroom Area  (Room Number 2707)

Posted February 18th, 2010 by: admin under Hotels, Renovation

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6 Columbus, NYC

King Suite, Living Room Area  (Room Number 60)

We had a chance to experience 6 Columbus, a Thompson Hotel, while in NYC last week and we have an exciting report to share with you.  When visiting Manhattan, location is always paramount.  What we truly love about 6 Columbus is both its location, and not-so-conventional hotel feel.  6 Columbus is a quaint gem located at the doorstep of the Time Warner Center as well as Central Park.  With only 88 Guest Rooms & Suites in total, you’ll feel as though you’re living in a posh NYC apartment with one of the best location’s in town.

6 Columbus features an inviting, albeit small, lobby space with a staff that aims to please.  Absent are the hundreds of patrons you’ll often find in most NYC hotel lobbies; we were off to a good start.  As most other frequent travelers will note, enjoying a quick yet friendly check-in process is always preferred.  You certainly won’t find check-in lines at 6 Columbus, nor will you find the hustle bustle stress of a convention hotel.

Pod Room, 1 Double Bed  (Room Number 92)   (02 rooms have desk, 07 rooms are slightly larger but have no desk)

Studio Suite, 1 King Bed + Balcony  (Room Number 103)

6 Columbus (Six Columbus) offers several different room categories ranging from “Pod Rooms” to “Columbus Loft & Thompson Penthouse Suites”  Pod Guest Rooms are ideal for individual business travelers, or those guests staying only 1 or 2 nights.  Measuring in at around 175 Sq. Ft., Pod Rooms feature 1 Double Bed, and are extremely quiet.  Other Room Categories include Queen Rooms, Queen Deluxe & King Deluxe Rooms.  All Guest Rooms are outfitted with tastefully appointed furnishings with a retro flare.  Our favorite room type is the “Studio Suite”, particularly those located at the back of the hotel (Room Numbers 103 & 104)  Studios feature outdoor terraces, hardwood flooring and are located on floor 10 & 11 of the hotel.  Room Numbers 103 & 104 also come equipped with larger bathrooms with both Walk-In Glass Showers as well as Bathtubs.  As a side note, all standard Guest Rooms on the 9th Floor feature hardwood flooring.

A Sample of 6 Columbus’ In-Room Amenities:

  • Bigelow Bath Products
  • In Room Snacks by Dean & Deluca (Mini-Bar Offerings)
  • Flat Panel Televisions & iPod Docking Stations
  • Shower/Bathtub Combination (Separate Showers & Bathtubs in Select Studio & Loft/Penthouse Suites)

Lobby Area, 6 Columbus

Many travelers often stick with larger scale hotels for fear of choosing a boutique hotel that might disappoint.  Admittedly we’ve often had similar fears, as some boutique’s don’t quite deliver what they advertise.  We say with confidence however that 6 Columbus exceeded our every expectation, and offered every bit of convenience that we would hope for in a larger hotel.  6 Columbus offers residential style luxury along with city sophistication, making it an ideal Midtown Manhattan hotel choice.

Find the Best Rooms at 6 Columbus Here

Posted February 11th, 2010 by: admin under Hotels, New York

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Sweet Offers for Valentine’s Day at Starwood Hotels & Resorts

Something Sweet at Starwood Hotels & Resorts in Florida, The Caribbean & The Southeast!

Nothing says romance like an escape with your special someone. With two unique offers and some of the most romantic destinations in Florida, the Caribbean and the Southeast, finding the perfect Valentine’s Day getaway has never been easier.

Enjoy sweet treats and unforgettable moments with Starwood’s romance package or special savings with irresistible Valentine’s Day rates.

Posted February 8th, 2010 by: admin under Hotels

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Andaz West Hollywood

Lobby

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts has recently debuted its newest brand: Andaz.  Taken from the Hindi word “Andaz” it means “personal style” or “stylish”  And Stylish it is.  Formerly the Hyatt West Hollywood, Andaz West Hollywood is nearly unrecognizable for those who have stayed here before; its stunning arrival experience will lead you to believe you’re in an entirely new hotel.  And this isn’t too far from the truth either- in fact Andaz has used very little of the old framework, essentially transforming it into a new hotel.

Andaz takes a new approach by delivery everything a luxury minded traveler might desire in a contemporary hotel experience.  Yes you could say that Andaz competes with the W Hotels of the world, but the mentality seems to be quite different.  Upon arriving the Andaz West Hollywood you are quickly greeted by one of the many personal lobby hosts, a rare yet sought after touch that few other hotels in the world seem to do right.  Gone are the front desks you might traditionally find at the check-in process.  Instead, you are pleasantly welcomed and seated in the lobby area with a laptop savvy attendant, who will later become your personal host for anything you might need throughout your stay.  The sound of “White or Red Wine?” was so much more welcoming than the traditional “Last name please?” approach you typically find.  While sipping on a glass of California Wine (of course a reminder of you where you are…) your credit card and personal details are taken, and keys are issued.  We’re told that these lobby hosts are trained to sense whether a guest is wanting to get to their room quickly (ie. late arriving business travelers) In either case, we loved the check-in.

Wine Reception Area

Andaz West Hollywood has made substantial changes to the guest room experience, and created a contemporary yet sophisticated atmosphere that echoes the hotel’s chic surroundings.  For those rooms in the “View” category (Rooms Ending in “05-19″), what were once balconies have now become enclosed sitting areas with floor to ceiling windows.  An ingenious idea, not only did View category rooms pick up some extra space, but they make these rooms feel more “suite-like” offering an extra place to sit and take in the view.  Bathrooms have been newly outfitted with white carera marble, walk-in glass showers and new vanity areas.  Albeit a tad bit small, the bathrooms are exceptionally well appointed and feature exclusive bath amenities and Frette towels & bathrobes.

  

View Room, 2 Queen Beds (Room Number 1106)

For those of you who always complain about outrageous mini-bar charges, you’ll love that Andaz includes all non-alcoholic mini-bar items at no charge.  Us Trip Kickers almost always make a “snack & water” run once we arrive at our hotel, but Andaz provides this for you on a complimentary basis.  Items include sodas, large bottled waters, juices & mixers as well as a generous offering of snacks- all replenished daily. Kudos to Andaz for making this a brand standard.

For those who are discerning about the hotel bedding experience, you will love the Andaz Bed.  Outfitted in nothing but the best, Frette Linens of course- you’re certain to fall in love.  Other impressive guest room features include larger flat panel televisions, bedside iPod docks and a second television in the window sitting area (View Rooms Only) 

For those who desire a bit more space along with a prime corner location, The Andaz Suites (Rooms Ending in “05″ and “19″) are a wonderful option.  Andaz Suites benefit from fantastic views of Los Angeles, as well as a generously sized room with a separate living room & bedroom area.  Andaz Suites feature hand picked local art along with custom furnishings and 2 Full Bathrooms (a rare feature even for suites)  The Sunset Suite (Room Number 1420) offers an impressive space and an outdoor terrace with fantastic Hollywood views.  The Sunset Suite features a separate bedroom and living room, and boasts features such as a walk-in closet, upgraded bathroom with Walk-In Glass Shower & Separate Deep Soaking Tub along with views of the city.  In case you’re in the mood for entertaining, The Sunset Suite also features a wet-bar area and second half bath.

 

Andaz Suite, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 419)

 

Sunset Suite, 1 King Bed (Room Number 1420)

Feel like taking a quick break from the action on the Sunset Strip?  Andaz features a rooftop deck with stunning city views, if you aren’t going to take a swim- at least check out the view.  During appropriate seasons, rooftop bar service is available.

Rooftop Pool Area

Classically trained in France, Executive Chef Sebastien Archambault has debuted RH Restaurant at the Andaz West Hollywood.  RH offers a breathtaking open kitchen design, along with a menu selection that will impress even the most sophisticated palette.  Archambault features some unique offerings along with a few classics as well, all perfectly executed in a hearty yet contemporary fashion.  After enjoying dinner, segway into the RH Bar, a vibrant setting on the Sunset Strip with a fun and exciting atmosphere.  

RH Restaurant, Open Kitchen Design

The Andaz West Hollywood offers personal style, personal service and impeccable design in a concept that we truly loved.  We can see how this brand will quickly catch on for those travelers who not only seek cool design, but personalized service to go along with it.  It’s often the little things that make for a memorable hotel experience, and Andaz has scored big points for those of us who seek a luxurious experience in a cool package.

Find the Andaz West Hollywood by Clicking Here & Get Find More Information About Which Rooms to Request

Posted February 5th, 2010 by: admin under Hotels, Los Angeles, Renovation

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Sign Up For Trip Kick Picks

We recently launched our “Trip Kick Picks” program, where members receive access to some of the best hotel deals on the web.  Be sure to sign up for our Newsletter on the TripKick.com homepage, and you’ll receive our next exclusive list of deals!

 

Posted February 5th, 2010 by: Bryant Waters under Uncategorized

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a Quick Look at The Westin Excelsior Rome

The Westin Excelsior Rome, Lobby Area

The Westin Excelsior Rome, the sister property to The St. Regis Grand Rome, is located on the famous Vittorio Veneto just adjacent to the U.S. Embassy.  The Westin Excelsior is the larger of the two properties, offering over 300 Guest Rooms in total.  The Westin Excelsior originally opened its doors in 1906, hosting a long list of famous guests throughout its history.

Despite the Excelsior’s grandeur, it still maintains a rather intimate feel, with a modestly sized lobby and personalized staff.  We really enjoyed the hotel’s location, as it was convenient, yet just far enough from the city center to provide a certain level of calm (a nice treat in a city with so much activity)  Vittorio Veneto reminded us of the Champs Elysees in Paris, as it’s lined with an abundance of outdoor eateries and a wonderful place to take a stroll.

The Westin Excelsior offers numerous guest room types including standard accommodations, junior suites, Westin Workout Room and Large Suites.  By European standards, even the smallest room types are quite large.  Some rooms offer balconies overlooking Vittorio Veneto, a great feature for taking in the outdoors.  All guest rooms are equipped with Westin’s Heavenly Beds and Showers, and some rooms offer separate walk-in showers and bathtubs.  Color schemes vary per room type & floor, and range from reds, greens and golds.

Select Luxe Suites have been renovated in a new, more contemporary style (pictured below) while most other room types feature a more traditional Italian inspired theme with classical hints including chandeliers & rich fabrics.

Deluxe Guest Room, Red Design, 2 Twins = 1 King Bed  (Room Number 241)

Grand Luxe Suite, Via Veneto Views, 2 Twin Beds (Room Number 204)

Grand Luxe Suite (Newly Renovated) 1 King Bed, Courtyard Facing (Room Number 361)

Indoor Pool

This was just a quick look at all The Westin Excelsior has to offer. When making a decision between both The Westin & The St. Regis Rome, there are some differences, but both deliver a luxurious experience with a boutique like feel. “When in Rome” do as the Romans do and stay at the Excelsior, you’ll love it.

Check out Insider Room Information Here.

Posted January 20th, 2010 by: Bryant Waters under Hotels, Travel

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Park Hyatt Milan

Entrance, Park Hyatt Milan

The Park Hyatt Milano sets a new standard for hotel luxury, epitomizing a fashion forward hotel experience for the five star guest.  The “Park” brand of Hyatt Hotels & Resorts caters to a discerning audience of hotel aficionados, and The Park Hyatt Milan delivers everything this brand is known for, and more.

The Park Hyatt Milan is ideally situated next to the Galleria, a must see for all visitors.  Take a short walk down the Galleria, and you’re at the steps of Duamo.  Despite a truly stellar central location, upon entering the hotel you are immediately transformed into an oasis of calm.  The lobby is intimate, and boasts a must see copula (rotunda) that is comprised of glass panes that serves as a magnificent centerpiece for the hotel’s lobby restaurant.  Park Hyatt’s “Park Restaurant” gives guests an opportunity to view the Galleria while enjoying one of the many cocktail and wine selections available.

Park Hyatt Milan, Lobby Area

Park Hyatt Milan’s guest room experience is truly second to none.  European hotels have become sysnomoyss  with smaller guest room sizes, but Park Hyatt delivers quite the contrary.  In fact, Park Hyatt Milan offers perhaps the most spacious accommodations anywhere in Europe, with equally gigantic bathrooms as well.  Even the smallest room types feel like suites, a rare yet coveted feature for a large city hotel.  Guest rooms are adorned with contemporary, sleek furninishings that also compliment the history of the building.  Walls are covered with Italian limestone, as are the sumptuous bathrooms.  Walk-In Glass Steam Showers along with Deep Soaking Bathtubs are standard in all room categories.  Because the building dates back over 100 years, each guest room is uniqely configured and no two rooms are exactly alike.  Select room types feature balconies (Terrace Suites) while others enjoy exterior or interior views of the Copula below.  Rooms and suites are configured with 1 King or 2 Twin beds, both offering an indulgent night’s sleep.  Technology features include state of the art Bang & Olufsen televisions along with a sophisticated lighting system, ideal for setting the mood for your stay.

Deluxe Guest Room with 2 Twin Beds (Room Number 314) Interior Facing

Junior Suite, Corner Location, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 510)

Terrace Suite, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 616)

Service levels at The Park Hyatt Milan are simply remarkable, and provide an understated approach that will cater to your every request.  Staff members are constantly delighted to serve, yet the atmosphere of the hotel is warm and inviting.  Milan plays host to a wide variety of hotels, yet few deliver the level of service, style and elegance as the Park Hyatt Milan does.

Visit Park Hyatt Milan on TripKick.com here.

The Galleria, Milan

Posted December 10th, 2009 by: Bryant Waters under Hotels, New Destinations, Travel

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a Weekend at Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs

Riviera’s Lobby Area

The Riviera Resort & Spa is located just minutes from the Palm Springs Downtown Area, offering all the benefits of a resort while maintaining a close convenient location to city shopping and dining.  The Riviera originally opened in 1959, and quickly became one of the deserts most popular resorts.

In 2008, The “Riv” as it’s called by many, reopened after having completed a massive $70 million renovation.  The Riviera preserved its “Spoke Style” design, maintaining an intimate feel despite having over 400 guest rooms and suites.  The entire resort design contains over 8 Guest Room buildings in total, covering nearly 25 acres of land in the middle of Palm Springs.  The Riviera choose to design the hotel in keeping with its retro past, while incorporating fun contemporary touches throughout.

Guest Rooms:

Nearly half of Riviera’s guest rooms are “Mediterranean Rooms”, Trip Kick’s favorite guest room type.  These rooms are located in the “Spoke Design” of the resort, with close proximity to the main pool as well as the resort Spa, Fitness Center, Main Restaurant and Lobby.  The Mediterranean Room category acts more like a suite, as they feature a distinctive sitting area, oversized bathroom with deep soaking tub and separate glass shower.  Furthermore, Mediterranean Rooms all feature balconies or walk-out patios, some with fantastic mountain views.  Other room types include “Riviera Rooms” the resorts standard category, also generously sized, but do not offer the separate shower/tub feature, and balconies upon request.  Riviera’s Suites are dynamite, ranging in size from 600 square feet +.  Some suites feature fantastic outdoor areas with fire pits as well as outdoor private jacuzzi’s (One Bedroom Starlite Suites)

Mediterranean Room, 1 King Bed (Room Number 3112)

Starlite One-Bedroom Suite, 1 King Bed (Room Number 3100)

One-Bedroom Marquee Suite Mountain View, 1 King Bed (Room Number 4309)

The Pools:

Riviera offers two swimming pools, each with its own vibe.  The “Deep End” pool is located in a quieter area of the resort, offering a more intimate pool experience.  The Main Pool however is the focal point of the 6 “Spoke Buildings” and is center to the resort’s main bar area and within close proximity to the Riviera’s main restaurant: Circa 59.  The Main Pool is surrounded by a fantastic bar (day or night) as well as several fire pits for those sometimes cold Palm Springs nights.

Main Pool Area

Circa 59 Restaurant:

Riviera’s main restaurant is Circa 59, which is centrally located between the Lobby and Guest Room buildings.  Circa 59 takes a modern approach to dining and has just unveiled an enitrely new menu experience which features a wide range of contemporary American selections, as well as a few exotic choices too.  Already well received by locals (a good sign for a hotel restaurant) Circa 59 has a stand alone reputation for offering some of the finest entree selections in Palm Springs.  A charming yet sophisticated evening dining atmosphere coupled with great food makes Circa 59 a great spot for romantic occassions or even dining with the family.  Circa 59’s setting is a must see at night, offering both indoor and outdoor seating (poolside of course) as well as a “hybrid” of the two, with a half indoor/half outdoor setting.  Menu selections include an “Asian Pear Salad”, “Braised Shortribs” (our personal favorite) and several other savory choices.

Circa 59 Resaurant

Palm Springs has become an overwhelmingly popular destination for many, and there are a wide variety of hotel and resort choices available.  The Riviera combines a true resort experience with the convenience of Downtown Palm Springs.  A recent renovation has elevated the Riviera to once again being a world class resort that will appeal to the contemporary minded traveler.  Guest rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed and include features that we admire, most notably a wonderful bathroom experience as well as bright, modern design tones.  Information on Riviera’s best rooms will be available soon, stay tuned.

Posted November 23rd, 2009 by: Bryant Waters under Hotels, New Destinations, Renovation, Uncategorized

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