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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.

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Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Save Up to 50% Off on Stays From Novemeber 5th-January 18th 2010!

TripKick.com has recently expanded into several new International Destinations, and will be adding a long list of European cities in the coming months.  On our recent visit to Dublin, Amsterdam, London and Paris, Trip Kick experienced Lufthansa’s premium airport and on-board service.

Lufthansa serves more destinations throughout North America than any other European carrier, making it a convenient choice for trans-atlantic travel.  No matter where you’re headed, Frankfurt and Munich airports serve as convenient connection points and offer a seamless transfer experience for all classes.

Lufthansa’s Business and First Class passengers are offered a heightened level of comfort on the ground with Lufthansa Star Alliance Gold, Senator and First Class Lounges.  Lufthansa has recently unveiled several new or upgraded lounges including JFK’s newly renovated Senator/First Class Lounge, Frankfurt’s new Tower Lounge (for Star Alliance Gold, Senator & HON Circle Members) as well as First Class Lounges in Frankfurt and Munich Airport.  First Class passengers are treated to ground transportation from Frankfurt’s First Class Terminal directly to their departing gate, a rare and exciting experience that very few other airlines offer.  Enjoy a five course meal while in the First Class Terminal, and be whisked away to your departing gate via your choice of Porsche Cayenne or Mercedes-Benz S Class.

Lufthansa’s First Class Terminal, Frankfurt Airport

First Class Dining Experience at JFK

Lufthansa Senator & Business Class Lounge at JFK

Lufthansa prides itself on having one of the industry’s youngest fleets, utilizing Airbus A330, Airbus A340-300, Airbus A340-600 and Boeing 747-400 aircraft types on trans-atlantic routes.  Most flights are configured with three classes of service including Economy, Business and First.  In 2010, Lufthansa will be debuting the Airbus A380 which will be the launch aircraft for Lufthansa’s new First Class product.

Lufthansa’s Business Class, Lie-Flat Product

Lufthansa’s convenient scheduling coupled with fantastic on-board service make it an ideal airline choice for European travel and beyond. For additional information, please refer to Lufthansa’s Website.

Lufthansa in a Star Alliance Member

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.

The Ista Infinity Pool Area

Bangalore has been dubbed “The Silicon Valley of India” a bustling city where technology reigns.  Numerous hotels and resorts have opened to cater to business travelers visiting this bustling city of technology.  The Ista Bangalore is a luxury boutique hotel in Bangalore’s central business district, a calm oasis of pure pampering and utmost attention to service.  Yes, Bangalore is also home to The Taj and Oberoi, but neither capture the tranquility, amenities or contemporary spirit that Ista delivers its guests.

Welcome to Ista Bangalore, Reception Area

From the moment you arrive The Ista, you are warmly greeted by a staff that aims to please.  The Ista will appeal to the contemporary minded, with its hardwood surfaces, contemporary art pieces and tasteful architectural design.  The Ista offers standard guest rooms and suites that are both comfortable and appeal to all the senses.  Guest rooms are designed with hardwood flooring, flat panel televisions and bathrooms with high quality stone and glass enclosed showers.  In-room coffee makers, high-speed internet connections and luxurious bedding are all standard items.  Executive Suites, located on the 5th Floor, afford oversized floor plans with separate living rooms, bedrooms and outdoor patios.

Luxury Category Guest Room, 1 King Bed , Lake Views  (Room Number 929)

Executive Suite, 1 King Bed, Lake Views  (Room Number 529)

Ista Fitness Center

One might never need to leave The Ista, as most everything is available on property.  Dining options are plentiful, and include a wide range of cuisines including Continental American, Traditional Indian as well as a wide variety of other offerings.  In fact, we were frequently asked to make requests even though items might not have appeared on the menu.  Lido Restaurant offers stunning views of the rooftop pool area, and is designed in an open air format.  The staff is likely to know your name before you even arrive, just one of many personal touches you will find throughout your stay.  Zaman, Ista’s Fine Dining restaurant, features traditional Indian dishes in an open kitchen format, a fabulous option for a more formal dining experience.  Liquid Lounge is Ista’s outdoor bar option that includes a long list of fine wines and spirits to be enjoyed in a casual yet contemporary outdoor setting.  Liquid Lounge is a fantastic venue to enjoy a glass of wine, or choose a fine cigar and take in the atmosphere.

Ista Pool Deck

Lido Restaurant, Western Entree and Indian Entree

Liquid Lounge

Zaman Restaurant

Ista offers an on property fitness center, outdoor infinity pool as well as a full Spa.  Be prepared for pampering, a great option after a long day’s work.

When traveling overseas, it’s sometimes tempting to stick with a more recognizable name, but we can say with absolute certainty that The Ista Bangalore exceeded our expectations in every way.  In fact, service levels were among the best that we’ve seen worldwide, and we’ve been to some of the world’s best hotels & resorts.  Guest rooms, service, dining and amenities were all world class, leaving us with an impression that will last a lifetime.  On your next visit to Bangalore, most definitely consider The Ista, you won’t be disappointed.

The Ritz-Carlton Denver is one of the city’s newest luxury hotel arrivals, located in Downtown Denver.  This Ritz is of the more contemporary minded, sleek and contemporary, but also influenced by Colorado’s local landscape.

Located in a Downtown Denver high-rise, The Ritz-Carlton is sophisticated yet comfortable.  The hotel operates like a boutique, offering just 202 guest rooms and suites on Floors 4-12.  Ritz-Carlton Residences occupy upper floors of the hotel.  We were particularly delighted by the guest room experience, as standard rooms are spacious in design, and offer a host of thoughtful amenities such as: Night Light Floor Lighting (handy for late night bathrooms jaunts), In Room Nespresso Coffee makers and Mirrors in the Shower- a very handy feature for shaving or applying your provided Bvglari products.  The Ritz-Carlton bedding experience is sensational, as the Ritz-Carlton Denver provides a feather-bed and duvet for utmost comfort.

Deluxe Category Room, 1 King Bed

One-Bedroom Suite, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 402)

The Ritz-Carlton Denver is conveniently located Downtown, just minutes from Denver hotspots such as LoDo (Lower Downtown Denver), Larimer Square and 16th Street Mall.  The hotel also serves as a great layover for winter trips to Aspen or Vail, as these world famous ski destinations are only hours away by car.

For those guests who appreciate fitness and health, The Ritz-Carlton Denver has teamed up with Forza Fitness for a truly one of a kind fitness center experience.  Spa services are also avaialable in the hotel’s on-property spa, featuring a wide range of indulgent spa services.

NFL hall of fame player John Elway features an on-property restaurant, ELWAY’S, offering fine dining as well as other casual dining selections throughout the day.

The Ritz-Carlton Denver undoubtedly delivers one of the most luxurious hotel experiences in Denver, with impeccably designed accommodations and high levels of service.  TripKick.com recommends reserving a Ritz-Carlton One-Bedroom Suite for a uniquely designed corner Suite or a Ritz-Carlton Club Level Room for complimentary food presentations throughout the day.  Check out The Ritz-Carlton Denver on TripKick.com

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Park Hyatt Chicago Lobby Space

Originally opened in 2000, The Park Hyatt Chicago is regarded by many as the Hyatt Flagship Hotel.  Managed under the “Park Hyatt” flag, the Park Hyatt Chicago is one of the most well respected properties in Chicago, offering guests a luxurious yet private city hotel experience.

Park Hyatt properties are always distinctive, and often reflect their surroundings by incorporating local sophistication with contemporary luxury.  The Park Hyatt Chicago is no exception, and offers one of the best Downtown locations, affording breathtaking views from almost every angle of the property.  The hotel itself occupies the first 18 floors of this mixed use condo/hotel high-rise.

Lobby Space

The guest rooms at The Park Hyatt Chicago are residential in feel, and offer a sophisticated condo-like experience.  Every room category offers the signature Park Hyatt Chicago bathroom setup with separate glass enclosed showers, deep soaking bathtubs as well as a wall mounted LCD televisions.  Most room types feature an “open bathroom” format which allows for the bathroom to open up to the bedroom area, while other room categories feature exterior bathroom windows.  Even the smallest room type offers a spacious 550 square feet, allowing for plenty of room to relax and enjoy the view.  Park View rooms as well as suites feature breathtaking views of the neighboring Water Tower and Michigan Avenue and rooms on Floors 8 and above will enjoy Water Tower, Michigan Avenue and Lake Views.  For those guests who enjoy a bit of fresh air, the hotel offers a small selection of Terrace Rooms on the 3rd Floor which offer spacious outdoor terraces, a rarity for any city hotel.

Executive Suite, 1 King Bed  (Room Number 1107)

Guests can enjoy a wide array of services including the Park Hyatt Chicago signature “Personal Butler Service.”  Butler service is introduced at check-in, and provides guests with unpacking services, welcome drinks, complimentary pressing of 2 items and complimentary shoe shining services.

1 of 2 Lake Suites  (Room Number 1703)

Located on the 7th Floor, NoMI restaurant (short for North of Michigan) has become one of Chicago’s finest culinary offerings.  NoMI occupies a unique window space on the 7th Floor of the hotel, affording one of the city’s best vantage points of Michigan Avenue.  The space itself is beautifully appointed, and offers a menu selection that is second to none.  Christophe David’s French inspired menu is eclectic yet savory.  Yes, most hotel guests yearn for an off-site dining experience, but we promise this one is worth staying in.  Be certain to request a window table, the views are simply stunning.

NoMI Restaurant

Chicago is a destination known for its wide selection of hotels.  No other property however uniquely captures luxury, style, and intimacy like The Park Hyatt Chicago.  Those who travel frequently will agree, this is the gem of the Windy City.

For Guest Room Selection Information, Check out The Park Hyatt Chicago TripKick.com Profile Here.

2009 Webby Nominee List

TripKick.com has been nominated for a 2009 Webby in the Travel Category.  Please vote for us today by Clicking Here!