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.

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.

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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.

TripKick.com is excited to announce that it has once again been named a “Top Website” by Travel + Leisure Magazine.  Thank you to our Trip Kick followers and Travel + Leisure Magazine for this honored distinction.

Travel + Leisure Top Websites of 2009

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.

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.