Room 2303's Living Room

Located in downtown Chicago, Elysian is committed to providing guests with quality service that isn’t easily duplicated, even at lavish hotels. Its 188 guestrooms average 890 square feet, and with only 10 rooms per floor, guests won’t feel like their personal comfort is being sacrificed so the hotel can fit in as many rooms as possible. As many hotel patrons are aware, amenities are the secret ingredient to a perfect hotel recipe, and this notion isn’t lost on Elysian. Vi-Spring luxury beds are draped in 460-thread count Italian linens, and spacious closets ensure you won’t be living out of your suitcase. White marble bathrooms complete with soaking tubs provide the type of tranquil environment that’s essential to any luxury hotel. And with rooms decorated in champagne and platinum hues—the perfect backdrop to enjoy the fireplace or furnished terraces—you’ll feel as if you’ve found a room fit for a king or queen.

The hotel is located in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood, which makes it the perfect location for those looking to explore all of the exciting activities that have put the Windy City on the map. Elysian is two blocks away from Michigan Avenue; a block away from Oak Street, which is known to be the Rodeo Drive of Chicago; two blocks away from the lake and the John Hancock Center; and quick cab ride to the Art Institute of Chicago.

While plenty of fine-dining options are within walking distance of Elysian, some of the city’s best dining can be found within the walls of the hotel. Executive Chef Jason McLeod presides over the hotel’s two restaurants, Balsan and Ria. Centered around fresh, local ingredients, Balsan is a European-style bistro that serves up traditional dishes and modern takes on American cuisine, while Ria will tantalize your taste buds with innovative seafood dishes.

Elysian reminds us that even in the wake of increasing efficiency, quick fixes to long checkout lines and in-room iPads with built-in city guides are no substitution for excellent customer service and first-rate accommodations. So dust off your crown and get ready to be treated like the royalty you are at Elysian.

Photo Courtesy of Amalfi Hotel Chicago.

Located in Chicago’s fashionable River North District, Amalfi is close to the Loop, the Magnificent Mile, Merchandise Mart and Michigan Avenue, so the trendiest restaurants, the most upscale shops and the hottest nightclubs are never far away. Upon arrival, guests are assigned to an Experience Designer who will help customize their trip. Think of your Experience Designer as less of a concierge and more of a genie in a bottle who can get you into the swankiest nightclubs and set you up with the best tables at the hottest new restaurants.

The hotel’s 215 newly renovated guestrooms are available in two categories to fit your lodging needs: Deluxe Rooms and One Bedroom Suites. Every room is clad in a sea of rich autumn colors so you can retreat from the sensory overload of Chicago’s busy streets. Enjoy the array of luxe amenities including LCD TVs, in-room CD and DVD players, microfiber robes and slippers, pillow-top mattresses, Egyptian cotton sheets and Aveda spa products. Complimentary high-speed Internet and Wi-Fi is available, and you can even borrow CDs and DVDs from the hotel’s personal library if a relaxing night in is what you’re craving. Wake-up every morning to a free breakfast of Italian goodies provided on every floor, so you won’t even have to change out of your pajamas to get your java fix.

More than just a place to rest your head at night, Amalfi is an experience that will heighten your time in the Windy City. In-room spa treatments are available for those who wish to de-stress or look their best for a night out on the town. Hard bodies and workaholics will delight in the fact that Amalfi’s fitness center and business center are both free and open 24 hours a day. If Amalfi Hotel Chicago doesn’t have you singing “that’s amore,” we don’t know what will.

·         Rates from $199 that include a $100 gift card to Macy’s (per night you stay) and complimentary photos with the Downtown Seattle Macy’s Santa

The Westin Seattle

·         Rates from $199 that include a $100 gift card to Pacific Place Shopping Center (per night you stay) and a donation to Seattle Children’s Hospital

The Westin Bellevue

·         Rates from $199 that include a $100 gift card to the Bellevue Collection (per night you stay)

The pool at the Delano Hotel. Photo: 416style

The Raleigh
Frequently called one of the most beautiful pools in America, the pool at The Raleigh was made famous by Esther Williams, a swimmer and movie star in the 1940s and 50s. Known for her aquamusicals, Williams was a frequent guest of The Raleigh since its pool was the backdrop for many of her films. Today, the pool still retains its vintage-movie charm while kicking up the glamour with modern-day accents. Tropical plants surround the pool area, and the pool’s tumbling waterfall will transport you into an island frame of mind. In case you need a little more help relaxing, grab a scented towel from one of the staff members and hit up the poolside bar.

For more information, visit www.raleighhotel.com/explore/the_pool/.

Eden Roc Resort
A favorite of celebrities like Madonna and Steven Spielberg, and even a filming locale for episodes of “I Love Lucy,” the Eden Roc Resort not only offers oceanfront accommodations, but also three gorgeous pools: an adult pool, the Main Resort Infinity Edge Pool and the Ocean Garden Infinity Edge Pool, which is family friendly. There’s a Jacuzzi (essential!) to relax after a long day of swimming. Unlike many hotel pools in Miami, Eden Roc’s are open 24/7, so you won’t have “some ‘splainin’ to do” to any hotel security guards in case you feel like going for a midnight dip.

For more information, visit www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/recreation/miasr-eden-roc-renaissance-miami-beach/.

Gansevoort Miami Beach
Like its NYC counterpart, the Gansevoort Miami Beach is set on stunning its patrons with the ultimate in poolside luxury. Undoubtedly, you’ll have to split your time between Gansevoort’s two ocean-view pools; you wouldn’t want to make either one jealous! The rooftop pool is situated on a 26,000 square-foot oasis complete with cabanas and quintessential palm trees. The 110-foot swimming pool is 18 floors high, next to the “Plunge” bar and lounge, and offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and downtown Miami. The Pool Plaza will seduce you with its ocean-view, infinity-edge pool, located on a Brazilian Ipe deck. Be sure to try the upscale fare at the outdoor restaurant by the infinity-edge pool—just be sure to wait 30 minutes before diving back into the pool or you might float into the abyss.

For more information, visit www.gansevoortmiamibeach.com/features-activities/.

Fontainebleau

One of the pools at Fontainebleau. Photo: David Berkowitz

While many of the poolside scenes in Scarface were filmed at the Fontainebleau, the only thing you’re going to be saying hello to is the incredible poolscape at this luxury resort. Whether you’re looking for an adults-only pool experience or hoping to keep the kids entertained, Fontainebleau has a pool to suite your aquatic needs. The main pool is an amalgamation of a free-form pool combined with the “walls of water” effect, which gives the pool a walk-on-water appearance. For a more sensual experience, flaunt yourself at the enclosed European-style pool that’s surrounded by cozy cabanas and sun loungers. Families with children can visit a multitude of small dipping pools as well as an interactive waterscape play area that includes a waterslide, beach-style entry, a spray canopy, water canons and a zero-entry wading pool.

For more information, visit www.fontainebleau.com/web/recreation/pools_and_beach.

Delano Hotel
The Delano Hotel may only have one pool, but it certainly proves that quality is more important than quantity. Self-labeled as more of a “water salon” as opposed to a pool, Delano’s watery retreat will soothe your soul with its underwater classical music, cascading waterfall and in-pool furniture. There are separate areas in the pool designated for floating and meditating, so you can get your Zen on in peace. Poolside cabana dinning is available, and if that doesn’t make you feel like royalty, butlers are available as well. Don’t, however, let the peaceful daytime surroundings inform your view of what the pool area will be like at night. Once the lights go down, the “water salon” turns into more of a “water saloon,” where guests can indulge in the nightlife experience that inspired Will Smith to write his infamous Miami anthem.

For more information, visit www.delano-hotel.com/#/explore/?id=pool.

Waikiki Edition is the brands’ first property, and we got a first look this week while in Honolulu.  While Ian Schrager’s signature style is evident throughout, there is also a sense that the sometimes over the top whimsical flare seen in some of his other properties (ala Gramercy Park NYC) isn’t quite as strong here.  So what’s the verdict?… we LOVED it!

Waikiki Editon Reception Desk

We all have our personal preferences in terms of hotel personality, brand etc.  I think we can all agree however that boutiques can sometimes disappoint- rooms might be too small, service has an attitude or the hotel just hasn’t invested as much as it might need.  Edition takes all of the desirable elements of a boutique hotel- vibrant personality, an intimate level of service and hip design- and delivers an experience that is both consistent and seamless as a large name brand hotel, made possible by the backing of Marriott.

Edition’s Waikiki is the first of several properties worldwide (including upcoming locations in Istanbul, Barcelona and South Beach), but if this is what we should expect every time, we’re very excited.

So let’s talk about Edition Waikiki.  The arrival experience is very different than any other Hawaii property you might expect.  Missing are the lei’s, “Aloha” at check-in or statues of dolphins in the porte cochere.  Instead, Edition welcomes you with a low key yet attentive arrival experience.  You certainly know you’re in Hawaii, but it’s not contrived in any way.  The lobby area is fun and hip but still a reminder of where you are(you’ll love the surfboards behind the front desk!)  After a welcome drink and quick briefing on the hotel, we were escorted to the guest room elevators.

The Lobby (Notice the bookshelf in the background- it moves at 4pm and opens to the lobby bar area- a neat touch indeed)

Edition’s warm contemporary design continued into the guest rooms.  Because this Edition occupies a previously existing hotel, there were certain design constraints (ie. Not all room types have balconies), however they’ve done a wonderful job at transforming old to new.  In fact, most guests might even be hard pressed to notice the fact that this hotel wasn’t built new from ground up.  The vast majority of room types offer some type of ocean view, including views of the neighboring harbor, ocean view and pool views.

Guest rooms are simply yet elegantly appointed with luxurious finish work including large plantation shutter dividers in the bathroom and window areas.  While minimalist, guest rooms are quite cozy in feel with subtle reminders of Hawaii- most notably a wall mounted tribute to local heritage- a ukulele, shells, starfish etc.  Regardless of room type, bathrooms are outfitted with walk-in glass showers, and select deluxe one-bedroom suites offer separate shower and deep soaking tubs.  Rooms with 1 King Bed feature outdoor lanai’s.

Deluxe One-Bedroom Suite, 1724  (1 King Bed & Living Room/Desk Area)

Deluxe One-Bedroom Suite, 1724 (Bathroom Area, w/ Separate Shower & Tub)

The View from a One-Bedroom Ocean Suite  (Room Number 1110)

The common areas of the hotel are meticulously designed with utmost imagination and attention to detail.  While the hotel itself isn’t quite ‘beachfront’, it offers a convenient location with wonderful views of the water and easy access to nearby beaches and lagoons.  Waikiki Edition does offer two distinctive pool experiences on the 1st level of the hotel including a beach style pool (surrounded by sand) as well as a traditional pool, both offering pool bars and full service.  While being oceanfront is a nice touch, we never really missed the sometimes crowded feel that other Waikiki resorts experience; Edition is more of an oasis away from the crowds.

The ‘Sand’ Pool (one of two pools offered at Edition Waikiki)

Edition Gift Shop

The Common Areas, near Poolside

Our initial impression of Edition was overwhelmingly fantastic… While some of Ian Schrager’s other properties have received mixed reviews in terms of room size, service etc., it’s clear that his talents coupled with the backing of Marriott will prove to be a huge success. Waikiki Edition has executed their product in a way that is enormously creative, yet comfortable and familiar at the same time- we look forward to seeing more of their properties in the near future!

For more information, visit www.thebazaar.com/experience/saam.

The Bridge at The Roosevelt
Move over, Whole Foods. The opening of The Bridge at The Roosevelt this past summer confirms that the farmers market is indeed the hip place to shop for all things local and organic, whether you’re shopping for groceries or supplying the ingredients to put together the ever-changing menu at L.A.’s newest “it” restaurant. Adeptly named for its location on the Marilyn Monroe Bridge, The Bridge serves up its fresh dishes on a modern, patio-like area overlooking the pool. While the menu changes weekly, expect delish food that won’t break the bank, like chilled avocado soup, grilled lamb chops and butterscotch parfait.

For more information, visit www.thompsonhotels.com/hotels/la/hollywood-roosevelt/eat/the-bridge.

Simon LA at Sofitel Los Angeles
Iron Chef vet Kerry Simon is no stranger to satisfying hungry hotel patrons—Simon’s eponymous restaurants are also located at The Palms in Las Vegas and the Hilton Atlantic City. His Los Angeles effort goes after that spot in your stomach that still yearns for mom’s home cooking. With comfort food like tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches, Black Angus burgers, roasted chicken and margherita pizza, Simon LA knows how to hit the spot without making your meal seem like last night’s leftovers.

For more information, visit www.sofitel.com/gb/hotel-0937-sofitel-los-angeles/restaurant.shtml.

Restaurant at Sunset Marquis
Grab a seat under the stars with that someone special and prepare to delight in chef Guillaume Burlion’s culinary magic. The simplicity of Restaurants’ name isn’t an indication of Burlion’s ability in the kitchen, but rather his aptitude at turning ordinary ingredients into edible works of art. The menu changes to feature seasonal ingredients, but regardless of what time of year it is, prepare your taste buds for the likes of Chinese duck breast marinated in green tea and served with caramelized potatoes with a plum reduction; miso crusted black cod with Japanese squash; and individual lamb loin “tarts” with roasted eggplant and spring heirloom tomato concasse.

For more information, visit sunsetmarquis.com/sm_restaurant/restaurant.shtml.

The Blvd at The Beverly Wilshire
The Beverly Wilshire may be a common locale for the filming of HBO’s “Entourage,” but don’t expect any Johnny Drama-like pretension at The Blvd. Open from 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. everyday, this celebrity-favorite overlooks the famous intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive. Sit inside to enjoy the high ceilings or on the sidewalk patio to people watch. Chef Perfecto Rocher lives up to his name by creating signature dishes that add Spanish touches to traditional California cuisine. Vegetable ragu, sweet potato salad, foie gras, pan-seared salmon and rack of lamb are just a few examples of the savory dishes you can expect to find on the menu at The Blvd.

For more information, visit www.fourseasons.com/beverlywilshire/dining/the_blvd/.

W Exterior

The W Hollywood is a wonderful new addition to the Los Angeles hotel scene, and we’d like to share our first look with you!  In keeping with the hip traditions of W, the W Hollywood is no exception- it’s hip, groovy and oh so Hollywood.

As you probably already know, W’s are know for their whimsical approach to building hotels- incorporating a fun, modern theme while also reflecting the unique style of their destination.  W Hollywood is located on the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, just a short walk from Hollywood Boulevard and Highland, home to the Kodak Theatre (where the Academy Awards take place every year)  The location is ideal for visitors or business travelers alike.  The immediate area itself is still growing, but the location offers easy access to most major sites in Los Angeles.

The W Hollywood “Living Room”, aka Lobby

The W Hollywood is comprised of both guest room and residences, separated into two buildings.  There are 265 Guest Rooms and 40 Suites in total, some offering views of The Hollywood Sign & Hollywood Boulevard.  Standard Guest Rooms range in size from 380-500 Sq. Ft. depending on the location and category, and suites go up to 1,600 Sq. Ft., some of which offer outdoor terraces.

While every category is special in our eyes (we couldn’t resist the W beds, always a treat), we really liked the Cool Corner Suites “Rooms Ending in 01″.  Cool Corner Suites offer a unique floor plan, corner location and spectacular views of the Hollywood Sign!  Regardless of which room type you reserve, you’ll enjoy comfy beds (with feather beds & the best linens), walk-in glass showers (with window to the bedroom, don’t worry- it’s partially frosted), flat screen televisions, an impressive mini-bar offering and several other fun W goodies. 

Wonderful Room, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 642)

  The TV & Desk Area

  W Munchies

Cool Corner Suite, “01″ Series, 1 King Bed

If the guest room experience isn’t cool enough, be sure to check out the Rooftop Pool.  Often “the place” to be seen, the pool offers cabana service as well as a full outdoor bar and restaurant.  Lounge around the pool, or take a dip- you’re certain to be entertained.

The W Hollywood is also home to Drai’s Hollywood, a now famous nightspot for celebrity gawking and just having a good time.  Drai’s is located on the hotel rooftop.

What we really liked about W Hollywood:

• Innovative Guest Rooms with Lots of Features, Comfy Beds & Fantastic Walk-In Showers
• Brand new build; W Hollywood has the luxury of being a brand new hotel- so everything has that fresh smell we love!
• W Acura Experience, The W will take you anywhere, complimentary, within 2 miles of the hotel
• The Rooftop Pool “Wet”, you’re certain to have some good people watching, maybe even a celebrity or two
• Convenient location with easy in/out, surrounding streets aren’t too crowded like most LA streets

The W Hollywood is a wonderful LA getaway hotel, offering an abundance of luxury and cool at the same time.  Guest rooms extremely comfortable with a wide range of amenities designed to suit the frequent business traveler or the weekend jetsetter.

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Hotel Vitale’s Landmark Suite Terrace

Our pursuit to find one of San Francisco’s most unique hotels was quite successful on our recent trip.  Meet Hotel Vitale, part of Joie de Vivre’s luxury collection of hotels.  In keeping with “JDV’s” boutique spirit, Hotel Vitale is both intimate and full of life.  Vitale’s approach is simple: modern, fresh and nurturing.

First Impressions:

Upon arrival you’ll immediately notice a zen-like feel, as Hotel Vitale has designed a contemporary yet inviting lobby experience that mimics the soothing tones of nature.  The hotel itself is a “stand alone” building, a unique design that benefits from a fantastic waterfront location with views of the Bay Bridge and Embarcadero.  Unlike other properties located in crowded areas of the city such as Union Square, Fisherman’s Wharf or even Knob Hill, Hotel Vitale is within close proximity to everything you’ll want to visit in San Francisco, yet far enough where you’ll be away from the city rush.

The Guest Room Experience:

Hotel Vitale prides itself on offering uniquely designed guest rooms that reflect a cool, clean and luxurious feel.  Vitale’s guest rooms will appeal to all the senses, through the use of aromatherapy (Vitale uses ‘Fresh’ products with fantastic scents in Waterfront King & Suite Category Rooms, and Lather Products in all other room types).  Little touches have been incorporated to make for a truly well rounded experience; guests will enjoy complimentary WiFi, complimentary use of the fitness center, iPod/MP3 docking stations, well stocked mini-bars with a wider variety of options.

There are a large number of room types ranging from Superior Rooms (averaging over 300 Sq. Feet) to Landmark Suites (averaging over 720 Sq. Feet)  Superior guest rooms are generously sized, and feature the same amenities as most other room categories.  Room layouts, bathroom features and views will vary as you go up in room category.  Waterfront Rooms offer dynamite views of the San Francisco Bay & Bay Bridge, a site seldom seen in other San Francisco hotels.  Waterfront rooms also feature spa inspired walk-in showers. Regardless of your room type, guests can enjoy one of two rooftop terraces, designed for relaxing and enjoying the view.  Bring a glass of wine, or even a book, and enjoy.

Waterfront King Room (Room Number 608)

Panoramic Suite (Room Number 716)

Spa Vitale, located on the 8th Floor of the hotel, offers a truly unique Spa Experience on the hotel’s Penthouse level.  A wide array of services and treatments are available, including an outdoor rooftop bath experience.  As seen below, guests are pampered in an outdoor city setting that is both calming and unique.

Spa Vitale

Hotel Vitale’s Lobby Space

Uniquely located, uniquely designed and tremendously well executed, Hotel Vitale was impressive all around, to say the least.  Hotel Vitale is everything a Boutique hotel should be, while also delivering a level of service on par with its five star counterparts.  For those travelers seeking an oasis in the city, this is it, you have arrived!

What we really liked about Hotel Vitale:

• A rare secluded yet convenient Waterfront location
• Calm & Soothing feel throughout the hotel
• Luxurious, Fresh feel
• Spacious & Exceptionally well appointed Guest Rooms
  
• Stunning Views
• Rooftop Decks for Guest Use Only
• Americana Restaurant: Fantastic Food & Great Outdoor Seating Area
• Highly Personalized Service
  

Check out Hotel Vitale on TripKick.com

A Walk Through Paris by Guest Blogger: Christopher Back

To launch my new post as Paris Destination Expert at TripKick.com, I decided to create a special walking tour of Paris just for Trip Kick users.  A walk that you can enjoy on foot in Paris or from a comfy chair at home.  The neighborhood I’ve chosen, from the Place Vendome to the Louvre, is on the top of everyone’s list of places to visit in Paris.  But, I’m going to show you a side that is lesser known, with some interesting history and stories of intrigue.  We’ll even approach the Louvre in same way as its last royal resident, Louis XIV and show you a side of this famous building that few tourists take time to see.

We’ll start at the Renaissance Vendome Hotel; a great boutique property with chic guestrooms, an intimate scale and a rare indoor pool in their luxurious spa.  It’s a great place for business and comfortable for family travel.  I’m sure you’ll appreciate their attention to detail and friendly service.

Insider Hotel Info. on The Renaissance Paris Vendome at TripKick.com

As the name implies, the hotel is located just off the historic Place Vendôme on a quiet street parallel to Rue St Honore, one of the best shopping streets in Paris.  Even if you’re not interested in shopping, it’s just a short walk from the Louvre and many other famous sights we’ll explore during our walk.

Along the way we’ll see a church with a magnificent altar inspired by Bernini’s altar at St Peters in the Vatican, hear stories about assassination plots by a scheming Catherine de Medicis, and find time for chocolate treats and a great burger if you’re feeling a little hungry.  You probably didn’t realize you’d find all of this within a few blocks of the hotel.  We’ll also visit a large sculpture installation ordered by former Paris Mayor and President Jacques Chirac, which he found so ugly that he halted construction as a public eyesore.  The artist was forced to sue the city to complete his work and now it’s an artistic highlight for many visitors.  Often, art is not appreciated until people have a chance to consider it for a while.

The same is true for the Louvre.  We’ll explore the evolution of its construction and hear stories of public outcry surrounding the expansions and renovations that have taken place over the last 800 years.  Did you know that in the 1850s the massive expansion launched by Napoleon III was considered too modern and out of keeping with the older 16^th Century structure?  Ironically, this is the same criticism heard following the completion of I.M. Pei’s now-iconic pyramid in the late 1980’s.

No matter how many times you’ve been to Paris, there are always new layers of history to uncover.  That’s the fun of coming back again, and what keeps me studying further.  After nearly ten years in Paris, I still learn new things every day and I hope this walk will inspire you to get to know my adopted city better.

Enjoy the walk and don’t forget to stop for a treat along the way.  After all, food is truly one of the greatest pleasures of Paris.

Let me know what you think of the walk, I’d love to have your feedback.

If you have questions about Paris, don’t hesitate to contact me!  Who knows, your question might inspire another blog post on TripKick.com.

Download the Walk By Emailing: tripkick@parisprivateguides.com.  You will receive a return reply with a PDF of the walk.

About Guest Author Christopher Back:

A long-time Paris resident and California native, Christopher’s diverse background combines with an in-depth knowledge of Parisian life, culture and history.  He followed his studies at the Sorbonne by completing  a full-time program covering history of French art, architecture and decorative arts at Christie’s France, the world renowned auction house.  Christopher is also a gourmet chef, with training at the Cordon Bleu and l’école du Ritz-Escoffier in Paris, including a brief stint working in the kitchens of the Hotel Ritz in Paris.

Besides his work with TripKick, Christopher is the Director of Paris Private Guides which offers a wide variety of private tours of Paris.  In addition to a personalized approach to clients, the company takes special care to provide accessible tours for seniors and others with reduced mobility.

Paris Private Guides

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