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

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.

The Lanesborough Main Entrance

The Lanesborough London is the epitome of unique, a rare hotel find that will impress even the most discerning traveler.  The Lanesborough offers only 95 Guest Rooms and Suites in total, making it one of London’s most intimate hotels with some of the highest levels of service available in the world.  The Lanesborough can best be described as one’s own private residence as it is both private and refined.  Unlike other five star hotels that you will find in London, The Lanesborough offers a lobby that is both understated yet caters to your every need.  Every member of Lanesborough’s staff aims to make your stay more enjoyable, and you’re likely to know them well by the time you depart.

Check-In Area

Lanesborough’s personalized service experience begins at Check-In when you are greeted by the reception staff.  Unlike most hotel check-in experiences, you are invited to sit and relax as the receptionist prepares your room assignment.  Guests are then escorted to their room and briefed on the the hotel’s many services and amenities, and also presented with personalized business cards, and a dedicated phone and fax number.

Deluxe Guest Room, 1 King Bed (Room Number 128)

Each Guest Room is uniquely appointed in keeping with traditional English design.  Rooms are outfitted with dark woods, rich fabrics along with a wide variety of residential comforts.  LCD televisions are hidden, and bedside touch panel screens allow guests to control virtually every setting including lighting, temperature as well as butler services.  Every guest is assigned a Butler who will graciously see that your every expectation is exceeded.  Need your garments pressed?  Or how about a warm evening bath?  Lanesborough’s Butler staff will see that all of your needs are met.

No two guest rooms are alike at The Lanesborough, so noting your individual preferences prior to arrival are important.  You will find that most rooms are outfitted with generously sized bathrooms, however we recommend requesting your room with a separate walk-in shower and bath along with a jacuzzi style tub- a relaxing feature that you’ll most certainly enjoy after a long day in the city.  Other attributes vary by floor including higher ceilings (Floors 1 & 2 Have the Highest Ceilings) as well as views (some guest rooms feature Wellington Arch Views)

Deluxe Guest Room, Bathroom Experience (Separate Walk-In Shower & Bathtub, Bath Amenities)  Room Number 128

The Lanesborough Guest Bathroom experience is truly second to none.  The Lanesborough features Lady Primrose products, a London exclusive that guests absolutely love.  Rather than traditional plastic bottles, you will find full size portions of every product you’ll need throughout your stay.

Every Guest Room & Suite at The Lanesborough Features an In Room Laptop

Technology is paramount at The Lanesborough, and every guest room and suite is outfitted with its own Sony VAIO laptop.  Rarely will you find this type of service in-room, but it proves to be a handy feature (even if you’re brought your own!) and high speed internet is complimentary.  The Lanesborough guest room acts as a home away from home, as well as an “office away from office.”  Most everything you’ll need to be productive can be found in-room, yet one more reason that Lanesborough is ideal for both business and leisure travelers alike.

In addition to the many in-room services and amenities provided at Lanesborough, the hotel extends a wide variety of dining and social options on property.  “Apsleys” has garnered the attention of the locals, and has recently been named “Best Afternoon Tea in London.”  Apsleys also acts as the hotel’s main restaurant featuring Italian cuisine as well as an extensive wine selection, many of which are available by the glass.  The Library and Withdrawing Room are located on the Lobby Level, and provide a quiet relaxing environment to catch up with friends or colleagues while enjoying a fine cognac or cocktail.  Our personal favorite however is the Garden Room, an outdoor cigar lounge with a selection of some of the world’s very best cigars.  Better yet, The Garden Room offers many of these cigars individually, whereas most other places would only have them available by the box.  The Garden Room is a rare treat, and something every guest must see.

The Lanesborough London is a hotel experience like no other, a hotel that extends service levels that very few places can compete against.  Unconventional in every sense, The Lanesborough is very much an extension of one’s private home, an oasis of tranquility combined with English elegance and style.

For additional information on The Lanesborough London please Click Here.

The Lobby

Four Seasons Dublin is ideally situated in one of Dublin’s most affluent neighborhoods, yet only minutes for the city’s main shopping area.  Travelers seeking a quiet alternative to the traditional city hotel will love the blend of service, luxury and convenience that Four Seasons Dublin affords.

Located at The Royal Dublin Society, The Four Seasons Dublin is surrounded by lush landscaping and one of Dublin’s most sought after residential areas.  The city center is only a five to ten minute drive from Four Seasons, and we recommend taking advantage of the hotel’s complimentary daily car service (as of 2009, a brand new BMW 7 Series awaits)  After a long day in the bustling Dublin city center, an oasis of calm awaits you upon your return to the hotel.  Enjoy one of the many on-property features including an extensive fitness center and spa, indoor swimming pool, and a wide variety of dining options.

Guest rooms and suites at Four Seasons Dublin take an equally soothing approach as they are both luxurious and elegant, while extending all the comforts of home.  Guest rooms are traditionally appointed in tones and colors that reflect the hotel’s location.  We found that guest rooms were among the largest we’ve seen in Europe, and even quite large by North American standards as well.  Because the property was built as a Four Seasons from the ground up, no detail has been spared.  You will find spacious bathrooms with dual vanities, walk-in glass showers and separate deep soaking bathtubs.  Some guest rooms feature balconies, mountain and city views, while others enjoy peaceful views of the hotel’s lushly landscaped courtyard.  In typical Four Seasons fashion, the beds are simply amazing.

Deluxe Guest Room, 2 Twin Beds  (Room Number 225)

Deluxe Category Room, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 305)

Deluxe One-Bedroom Suite, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 257)

While most of the hotel maintains a more traditional approach, ICE bar (located on the hotel’s lobby level) is a contemporary bar experience that showcases local art, and is often an evening hot spot.

ICE Bar

Dublin is a city that offers numerous hotel choices, but Four Seasons Dublin truly sets itself apart with its resort style setting and luxurious comforts.  Nowhere else in Dublin will you find the kind of unparalleed service and amenities as Four Seasons Dublin.

The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt Lobby

TripKick.com has recently begun it’s expansion into International Destinations, and Dublin was one of our very first stops.  We were excited to include The Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt, Dublin- a wonderful resort style property just minutes outside of the city center.

The Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt, Dublin was built on The Powerscourt Estate in 2007, but enjoys much history and a setting that is nothing short of breathtaking.  An ideal respite for Dublin’s bustling cityscape, this Ritz-Carlton is truly unique, offering a tranquil environment with quintessential Irish charm.  The hotel itself was modeled after the historic Powerscourt Estate Residence, which leaves guests with a truly elegant residential feel.  On-property activities are endless, and include local nature hikes, tours of the neighboring Powerscourt Estate House and Gardens as well as a wide array of hotel services.  Fancy a weekend spa or fine dining experience at Gordon Ramsey’s, The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt has it.

The guest room experience at The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt is truly stellar and reflects both local character and charm along with the elegance of Ritz-Carlton.  Nearly half of its guest rooms are in fact suites, and even standard accommodations are some of the most spacious rooms you will find in Europe.  Select guest rooms and suites feature outdoor balconies or terraces, an ideal opportunity to take in the crisp air and look upon the rolling hills of Ireland.  Standard luxuries include meticulously appointed bathroom spaces, all with separate walk-in showers and deep soaking bathtubs.  Another standard feature are in-bathrooms televisions, something every hotel should have!  Guest rooms are elegantly appointed in a light and airy theme, comfortable and unimposing.

Corner One-Bedroom Suite (Room Number 621)

Wrap-Around Balcony & View (Room Number 621)

Select Guest Rooms & Suites Feature Balconies by Request.  We recommend making this request, as it’s the perfect place to enjoy breakfast or an evening cocktail while taking in the outdoors.

Control Touch Panel

Each Guest Room is equipped with multiple touch-screen panels which control most functions in the room including, Room Tempature, Lighting and Window Coverings.

“ESPA” and Fitness Center

The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt features a wonderful Spa and Fitness Center Facility, complimentary to all guests.  Take in a swim at the hotel’s indoor pool and jacuzzi, it’s one of the best indoor pools we’ve seen.  A wide array of spa treatments are also available at “ESPA”, one of Europe’s leading spa providers.

The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt is far enough outside of the city center for rest and relaxation, but close enough for day trips to one of Ireland’s most happening destinations.  On your next getaway to Ireland, The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt is the place to stay.

St. Regis Grand Hotel, Main Entrance

The St. Regis Grand Hotel Rome delivers opulent luxury in a small boutique-like setting.  Located in the heart of Rome, The St. Regis is central, yet hidden, offering its guests a convenient location away from the tourist hot spots.  In keeping with the high standards of the St. Regis brand, The St. Regis Grand delivers personalized service in a setting that is quintessentially Rome.

Having recently undergone a $35 million renovation, The St. Regis has been restored, maintaining its place as one of Rome’s finest hotels.  This massive renovation is evident throughout the property, and can be seen in both common areas and guest rooms.

Upon arrival, it becomes clear that you have landed at THE place to stay in Rome.  The St. Regis is a true gentleman; both calm and reserved.  As elegant as this property may be, there is an aire of comfort that puts its guests at ease.

Reception/Check-In

Having stayed at numerous properties throughout Europe, our initial impressions of the guest rooms were quite positive.  Even some of the best European properties, particularly in Rome, lack space and some of the many amenities that American travelers demand.  Guest rooms at The St. Regis Rome are spacious, and offer bathrooms with separate walk-in showers and bathtubs, a feature we love at Trip Kick.  We recommend reserving the “Deluxe” or “Imperial” category room, as they feature sitting areas a just a bit more space to stretch out and relax.  The decor is traditional Roman elegance, with crystal chandeliers, intricate styled draperies and local Italian artwork.  Guest rooms and suites with interior locations are often more quiet, and exterior facing rooms capture views of local streets and city squares.

Superior Category Room, 1 King Bed (Room Number 233)

Deluxe Category Room, 1 King Bed (Room Number 219)

Imperial Room Category, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 238)

Ambassador Suite, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 231)

The St. Regis Rome is a perfect place to relax and unwind at the end of a long day.  Whether you are in Rome to work, or play, The St. Regis offers gorgeous common areas which you can take in along with a drink from the Lobby Bar or Lounge.

Lobby Bar Area and Lounge

Fitness Center

Our next Blog Features will cover The Westin Excelsior Hotel Rome.

Over the next several months, TripKick.com will be launching new International Destinations throughout the globe!  We have begun with a small sampling of properties in Bangalore India, Rome Italy, Munich Germany, Hong Kong China, Bangkok Thailand and Koh Samui Island Thailand.

We are excited to bring you the following hotels & resorts during our Beta International Launch:

The Ista Bangalore

The Westin Excelsior Rome

The St. Regis Grand Hotel Rome

Sofitel Bayerpost Munich

W Hong Kong

Four Seasons Bangkok

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui

We will be adding over 30 Hotels in London and Paris in the coming months, so stay tuned for some exciting new information!

W Hong Kong, Fabulous Category Room

The W Hong Kong, located in Kowloon, is Starwood’s hippest new Hong Kong property, featuring stunning views, impeccable design and spotless service.  Located in an up and coming location of Kowloon, the location affords convenience to Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong Island and numerous attractions throughout the area.  The W Hong is located atop Elements Mall, a one stop upscale shopping experience that includes a wide variety of high end shops, dining options and transportation.  A 25 minute door to door Airport Express option is available, and is perhaps one of the most convenient airport transportation options we’ve seen worldwide.  Allow one of the W Bellman to assist you with your bags, and they will be checked-in below the hotel.  Each airline is represented below the hotel, allowing you to check-in, check your luggage and be on your way!

Reception, Check-In Area

W is known for its whimsical, contemporary approach to hotel design, and the W Hong Kong is no exception.  Now one of our favorite W’s, the W Hong Kong is both upscale yet playful, utilizing a variety of design themes all reflecting nature, calm and tranquility.  The W is a sophisticated hotel that will be appeal to the modern business or leisure traveler.

The guest room experience at the W Hong Kong was nothing short of spectacular.  Guest rooms are spacious and feature every amenity that one might require, including Bliss bath products, a well stocked mini bar, large flat panel LCD televisions and a convenient bedside panel which allows control of lighting and drapery functions.  The W bedding experience was divine, a combination of utmost comfort (yes, duvet and feather bed are always standard) and style.  LED reading lights are just one of the many thoughtful touches seen in both standard guest rooms and suites.  Standard rooms vary by view, Fabulous Rooms offering the most stunning water views.  Spectacular Category rooms feature partial Harbor Views.  The W Hong Kong bathroom experience was simply invigorating.  Bathrooms feature an “open design” which allows guests the option of maintaining an open feel, or closing off the bathroom for privacy.  Glass and stone showers are stand alone, and every guest room offers a separate deep soaking bathtub.  For a slightly oversized standard room experience, “Cool Corner Rooms” (those ending in “17″) offer a corner location with a bit more space to stretch out.

Fabulous Category Room, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 2903)

For a truly indulgent guest room experience, the W Hong Kong offers a variety of Suite Category rooms, all of which offer stunning views, and floor plans that are simply marvelous.  Suite features include separate living room and bedroom layouts, larger bathrooms with upgraded stone surfaces, mosaic tiled showers, walk-in closets (some with water views!) and bar area setups.  Suites are also equipped with Bang & Olufsen sound systems and televisions, a wonderful feature for a truly dynamite entertainment experience.

Wow Suite, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 3511)  Note the Walk-In Closet with a View!

The W Hong Kong Pool experience, referred to by W as “Wet” is located on the 77th Floor.  “Wet” features expansive views of the Hong Kong Skyline, both of which can be enjoyed in the outdoor pool or jacuzzi.

Rooftop Pool “Wet” , 77th Floor

“Sweat”, W’s Fitness Center, is located on the 73rd Floor, allowing for spectacular views of the Hong Kong Skyline.  Bliss Spa, located on the 72nd Floor, offers an expansive list of treatment options.  This contemporary approach to spa treatments will leave you feeling relaxed and pampered.  Men’s and Women’s locker rooms are available on this floor, and feature steamrooms, indoor jacuzzi’s (with a view of course) as well as shower and locker facilities.

W Fitness Center “Sweat”  73rd Floor

The W Hong Kong culinary experience is nothing short of fantastic.  In addition to 24 hour In-Room dining, the W offers Fire Restaurant for fine dining, Kitchen for smart casual dining and the Living Room for lobby cocktails and light fare.  We particularly enjoyed “Kitchen” with its innovative design and amazing breakfast and lunch buffet presentations.

“Kitchen” Restaurant and Daily Breakfast/Lunch Buffet Service

The W Hong Kong is both clever and convenient, offering guests an alternative to your traditional hotel experience.  The W is luxurious and hip while maintaining an impeccable level of service.  We found the Kowloon location to be nothing short of ideal, offering the best of both worlds: convenient yet relaxing.  The W Hong Kong makes a fabulous addition to the Hong Kong hotel scene, and one that is likely to win over even the most discerning traveler.

The Hotel Valley Ho claims it was in Downtown Scottsdale before there was even a Downtown Scottsdale, and we think they’re right. The hotel first opened its doors in 1956, and has been meticulously restored with its mid-century past in mind. Fully renovated in 2005, The Hotel Valley Ho is a creative flashback to the 50’s, and offers a nice alternative to the more traditional Scottsdale resort/hotel experience.

On our last trip to Scottsdale, we had an opportunity to tour the property, and we were pretty satisfied with the finished product. Since the renovation, the property has matured nicely.

The Hotel Valley Ho offers a wide variety of guest room options, including condo-like digs in the “Tower”, Cabana Rooms, Standard Rooms, Studios and Suites. Rooms are anything but boring, and feature very bright colors, reminiscent of the 1950’s of course. We were impressed with how far Hotel Valley Ho actually took their renovation. Most properties you see from this era are tired, even post renovation. Hotel Valley Ho upgraded the bathrooms quite nicely to include a nice large space equipped with separate showers and bathtubs.

Signature King Room (Std. Room) w/ 1 King Bed  (Room 1217)

If you’re looking to be a little more adventurous with your accommodation choices, give the ‘Studio King’ room a try.  These rooms are slightly larger than the Signature King Rooms, and feature an ‘Open Bathroom’ design.  You and your significant other can take a bath right in the middle of the room!

Cabana King Room  (Room 6103)

Whether you’re attending one of the many conferences that take place at The Valley Ho, spending some quality time with the family, or just doing a little R&R, The Hotel Valley Ho is a departure from your typical Scottsdale Resort, and one that you’ll likely have a little fun with in the process.  Be sure to check out the on-property Trader Vic’s Bar & Restaurant too.

It won’t be long before we bring you TripKick.com Reviews of over 20 new Hotels & Resorts in Phoenix and Scottsdale Arizona.  Until then, we wanted to give you a glimpse at the new Sheraton Phoenix Downtown, the first new hotel to be built in the Downtown Area in over 30 years!

The Sheraton Phoenix showcases some of Sheraton’s newest looks, including an entirely new guest room experience, an efficient Lobby Space, and a new design theme that we think most guests will appreciate.

Traditional Room, 1 King Bed  (Room 1811)

Minibar Area  (Room 1811)

The Sheraton Phoenix Downtown was primarily built with Convention/Business travelers in mind, but the guest rooms are tastefully designed, and perhaps among the best we’ve seen at a Sheraton.  You will find that rooms are decorated in warm tones that reflect a Desert theme, and are so much better than what you’ll find at The Hyatt Regency Phoenix (Sorry Hyatt, but it’s really time for a renovation)

One Bedroom Suite w/ Separate Living Room & Bedroom, 1 King Bed (Room 3109)

Traditional Room, 2 Double Beds (Room 1812)

If your travel plans call for Downtown Phoenix, The Sheraton is a no-brainer, really.