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Most Recent SHB Reviews

Cal-a-Vie

Published: April 30, 2015 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Spa Reviews

Cal_a_Vie_Health_Spa

 

Cal-A-Vie
29402 Spa Havens Way
Vista, CA 92084
760-945-2055
www.cal-a-vie.com

 

I want to be objective but I just can't. For those familiar with my personality and writing style, it should be clear that I am a hopeless romantic, consistently searching and yearning for a true love affair.

A recent adventure transported me to the destination retreat and spa "Cal-a-Vie" and was nothing short of spectacular from the moment I arrived.

Located in the foothills of the San Diego Mountains and a short drive from the San Diego Airport, Cal-a-Vie is frankly "sanctuary." This could honestly be one of my favorite hotels in the world to date.

This review is not only for our devoted SHB followers, but for you my dear Deborah Zie (General Manager) and to your owners, John and Terri Havens. I want to express to you very eloquently my appreciation for every extra detail and effort you made during my stay and, what shall I say "l'amour?"

When I arrived at Cal-a-Vie, I felt to so comfortable, peaceful and tranquil. From the moment I entered I felt your, what's it called, "joie de vivre?" Your design, style, ambiance is so sophisticated, so French so "magnifique!" The guest suite you invited me to stay in was sumptuous and well appointed. The antiques, linens, bath salts, towels and amenities were so carefully chosen, and elegant. The spa, technicians and the sixteen treatments I received in one week (yes it's possible) transported me to Nirvana with panache and professionalism. The exquisite cuisine delicately prepared by Executive Chef, Curtis Cooke with a focus on my every desire, made me know that your individualized consultations were executed with precision to meet my specific palette and nutritional goals.

When I wasn't dancing to La Blast (thank you Louis Van Amstel) or enjoying the myriad exercise opportunities, I also had an opportunity to play golf at the newly acquired Vista Valley Country Club just adjacent to Cal-a-Vie, with its beautiful 18-hole golf course designed by Ted Robinson.

Guests can enjoy meditation while walking the Labyrinth or enjoy prayer (or music as I did) in the centuries old chapel transported stone by stone from Dijon, France. The grounds of the 200 private acre Cal-a-Vie property are stunning and invoke a sense of calm and reflection with views of their vineyards and on a clear day, the Pacific Ocean.

As a seasoned travel consultant, I always enjoy each new experience, but in this case, Cal-a-Vie, I wasn't prepared for the totally of your perfection, the caliber of your guests, the gracious quality of conversations that I would experience, or the spontaneous kindness and celebration of Mardi Gras with the special ladies from New Orleans and New York that I spent nearly every night with. (You know who you are Carrol, Phyllis, Pam and Marty). They made me Queen for a night, gave most people colored beads and crowns, and we celebrated (and celebrated) the festivities and private cooking class hosted by Chef Cooke! The laughter, camaraderie and general respect during my six day retreat with you and your guests was the highlight of my stay and made me feel like I was truly experiencing "La vie en Rose."

Thank you Deborah Zie, Mr. and Mrs. Havens and all the staff and guests at Cal-a-Vie for providing one of the best spa/retreat programs in the world. My love letter concludes with simply, "Je t'adore" and I can't wait to see you again.

With love,

Sheri

 

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Orchid Hale

Published: February 2, 2015 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Villa Reviews

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Orchid Hale
5074 Napo'okala Circle
Princeville, Kauai
www.kauaivacationrentals.com

 

I just had the opportunity to stay at the lovely villa "Orchid Hale," on the island of Kauai, courtesy of Kauai Vacation Rentals, and was so amazed again at the tranquility and beauty of this island and particularly this home. Orchid Hale is situated on the North Shore in the prestigious Princeville community. This home feels like your own home and not a vacation rental. It has beautiful views of the Napali mountains and an expansive yard filled with tropical plants. The villa boasts three bedrooms, all richly appointed and the furnishings are eclectic and tasteful. An antique canoe rests between the first and second floor and is just lovely. As a born foodie, what I love about this home the most is the gourmet lovers kitchen. The owners of this villa have not left any detail behind. Each cabinet and drawer is equipped with state of the art utensils and accessories that any chef would adore. The home is inviting and comfortable for six or more adults and also has a private office en suite. I love this villa and would love to stay there again. Hanalei Bay is a ten minute drive from the villa and has many nice restaurants and boutiques. This SHB gives Orchid Hale two thumbs up! Thank you Kauai Vacation Rentals for bringing this to my attention!

 

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Four Seasons Lanai

Published: October 27, 2014 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Hotel Reviews

four season lanai



Four Seasons, Lanai
1 Manele Bay Road
Lanai City, HI 96763
1-808-565-2000
www.fourseasons.com/manelebay

 

Lanai has always been a very special place for me. I have visited all of the Hawaiian Islands and this one is certainly one of my favorites. I was excited to return to Lanai and have the opportunity to see the tremendous effort Larry Ellison (the new owner of the island and ex Oracle CEO) has put into the re-construction of the community and more importantly, the Four Seasons, Manele Bay.

Tom Roelens is the General Manager of the hotel (he just came from the Maldives, Four Seasons) and he was kind enough to send Kristina Silvia, Social Media Manager (adorable) to pick me up at the ferry when I arrived. The ferry, small plane or helicopter is the only way to get there from the other islands, but Mr. Ellison has just purchased Island Air and has plans for expanding the airport to allow larger planes. Maybe we'll see direct flights from the mainland soon too?

Kristina took me to the golf course where we enjoyed a beautiful lunch at "Views" because of the really amazing views! The service was outstanding and Kristina is well versed with the Four Seasons product. I didn't get a chance to play golf, but the 18-hole golf course is stunning and the next time I visit it is a must do!

As part of the re-construction effort happening on the island, the hotel is also undergoing renovation. Currently, the first phase is complete and more than 100 guest rooms are available. The second phase is scheduled to begin shortly. Normally, I wouldn't be excited about staying at a property undergoing renovation, but Mr. Roelens has done a great job of segregating the work so that guests are not disturbed.

The part you are waiting for has arrived. You know it takes a lot for me to get excited but I am. I want to move into this hotel. Yes, it's true. I do! It is just STUNNING. The rooms are amazing. The design team did one of the best jobs I have seen in a very long time of appointing each room with clean, contemporary, island flavor and just visually stimulating décor. The beds are luxurious. They aren't hotel beds they are "art." The desks, nightstands, artwork, everything is well, fabulous. And, THANK YOU Mr. Roelens for recognizing that we like mini-bars in our rooms. I don't want to call and have my empty refrigerator stocked. I WANT to pay a premium for that small bottle of champagne in my mini-bar. I want convenience and I don't like to wait for things when I want them. So, again THANK YOU. Oh, the carved glass holder with crystal stems didn't go unnoticed either. Nice touch, really nice!

They were not quite open when I arrived but Nobu, Kailani and One Forty restaurants all offer gorgeous views. What a great idea to add the outdoor bar at Nobu! I can't wait to go back. I am really excited about this property for regular guests but also it's a super great location for incentive clubs. Tom Roelens, I think we can be friends!

The beaches are beautiful however, there are no motorized water sports because there is a marine preserve just in front of the hotel. But, do take advantage of paddleboards, snorkeling, scuba, etc. You can also rent quads and take a tour around the non-paved parts of the island.

Four Seasons Manele Bay you get an icing frosted two thumbs up from this SHB! Great job. Great product. If we were dating I would say, "I love you!" Can't wait to see you again.

Love,

Sheri

 

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Four Seasons Maui

Published: October 22, 2014 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Hotel Reviews

four seasons maui



Four Seasons, Maui
3900 Wailea Alanui Drive
Wailea, Maui, HI 96753
(808) 311-0630
www.fourseasons.com/maui


I have just come home from a whirlwind trip the first two weeks of October and was delighted to have been able to spend time at the Four Seasons, Maui. In general, I am a huge fan of the Four Seasons product both domestically and internationally and was happy to return to Maui during my trip. The staff at the Four Seasons has proved consistently professional (which is always on my radar) and I am rarely disappointed. The service at this hotel is exceptional.

Jean Claude Wietzel manages the hotel. Mark Simon is the Director of Marketing. I was delighted to meet with both during my stay and specifically spend time with Mark Simon.

I was booked on a media rate (thank you Mark) on the 8th floor that is also their "Club" level. My room was clean, well- appointed and had a relatively nice view. This property has historically been one of my very favorites because of its location and amazing views. In my previous role as a consultant, I recommended this hotel to many Silicon Valley executives for incentive programs and have never been disappointed. In total, I think I have visited this property at least ten times or more.

Just by coincidence, a very dear friend happened to be hosting an "incentive" club with nearly 650 employees during the four days I was there. To my surprise, I really didn't interact with them at all nor did I feel crowded by their program. This hotel is a great property for those kind of corporate events.

There are three restaurants at the hotel, Spago, Ferraro's and Duo and, all have exceptional food with beautiful views of the ocean right in back of the hotel. The manager at Spago were eager to please and it was a delightful experience.

For seasoned readers of my reviews you'll note I am skirting around the guest rooms. What can I say? I don't want to throw this property "under the bus" but yikes, they need to be updated and completely renovated. The carpeting in the corridors is showing its wear, but then again, that's to be expected when there's salt and sand being trafficked every year. The furniture is dated, as is the artwork.

When I spoke to Mark Simon (who is very knowledgeable about his product) I was delighted to know that there are plans in place for a complete renovation next year. I am going to reserve a SHB thumbs up or down until I have visited the newly renovated rooms next year. I do however, recommend this hotel for its excellent service and warm "ohana!"

 

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The Reefs

Published: September 17, 2014 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Hotel Reviews

The Reefs



The Reefs Hotel, Bermuda
56 South Shore Road
Southampton sN 02, Bermuda
(441) 239-0185
www.TheReefs.com

 

I've just returned from Bermuda and had the most wonderful, unexpected experience. I viewed the Rosewood Hotel at Tucker's Point, Cambridges, Elbow Beach and finally settled on The Reefs Hotel. It's not my usual style (cum 5 star) but honestly, I was very pleasantly surprised and here's why.

I arrived and was immediately greeted by Mervyn a 36-year veteran of the property. He led to me reception and the lovely ladies behind the desk offered me a "swizzle" (some topical concoction with a little rum) and then offered a cold towel, always a nice touch in the more tropical destinations. The check-in was smooth and my room was ready and comfortable. Not elegant, five star, over the top design and interiors, but very adequate with beautiful views. The rooms have had recently renovated bathrooms that added a nice touch and with a little needed touch-up paint here and there, are very comfortable.

We chose lunch on the property at "Coconuts," which became a daily favorite and the Resort Manager, David Dodwell, Jr. arrived to greet me, offer a room upgrade (with stunning views) and answer all of my questions. He is a Cornell grad and very impressive. He understands hospitality and his management of the property demonstrates the effort he has put in to its constant Conde Nast high ratings. The 64 guest rooms on the hotel side are easy to navigate in simple two story buildings, although there are a few steps involved, it didn't prove to dissuade even the elderly guests that were there. The infinity pool and Jacuzzi have ocean views and beach bar service is happy to accommodate buckets of champagne or cocktails on demand.

The property lends itself to an intimate setting and the wait staff, Micheal the Bartender, Angel, Food and Beverage, Martin and Edwina, "Echos Ocean" and "Coconut's" wait staff, Mervyn, Bell Desk, all went beyond their duties to ensure my needs were met and little special extras were provided.

The food at their two restaurants, "Echos Ocean" and "Coconut's" is very decent but Miss Congeniality 2014 (I am serious) at the front desk was eager to provide the names of equally fun/impressive eateries on the island which we sampled.

We rented scooters right across the street from The Reefs and toured the island, taking in the Dockyard and the small city of Hamilton, and even had a chance to take a fun Jet Ski tour (aka tour of the rich and famous) with a seasoned instructor named "Harry" from Somerset Bridge Watersports.

I met several nice people during our short trip but was impressed to hear about the newly built fractional ownership portion of the Reefs that I also toured. These two and three bedroom apartments are absolutely gorgeous with unobstructed views from each room of the pristine beach just in front of the hotel. The coral reefs are easy to snorkel and at low tide they almost appear as bubbling caldrons emerging from the sea.

I give this property a Snobby Hotel Bitch thumbs up for amazing service and ambiance. The Latin dancing under the stars on my last night was the icing on the cake. Thank you David Dodwell! You have done a great job!

 

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Elbow Beach Resort

Published: July 23, 2014 Written by Cara Macy Category: Hotel Reviews

Premier Ocean View Room Elbow Beach



Elbow Beach Resort, Bermuda
60 Southshore Road 
Paget Parish
(441) 236-3535
www.elbowbeachbermuda.com


Travel dates: July 17-21, 2014

I am writing this review on the flight back home from Bermuda, while every scent, site, and memory is fresh in my mind. This was a last minute get away for my 19-year-old daughter and I (literally booked it the night before our 10am departure). After doing a quick bit of research, I decided on The Elbow Beach Hotel. I was a little wary at first as they had recently gone thru some management changes (they had previously been part of Mandarin Oriental). The main part of the hotel's rooms are currently closed and in the process of being renovated. Right now, the hotel is operating with 98 rooms. We were fortunate enough to be upgraded to an ocean front king lanai room which there are only 5 of. Our room was beautiful, comfortable and did not lack a single thing. We especially loved the bathtub and luxurious amenities.

The resort is spread out over a large piece of property and has a lot of elevation/steps with the main hotel and lobby being at the top of the property. As you stroll down the hill, you will see the pool, spa, gym, tennis courts, hammocks, the, cycle shop and small pastel colored buildings with garden and ocean view rooms. The flowers and vegetation are beautiful as well as the incredible blue ocean in the background. It is a lovely walk around the property.

The property has great options for dining, and we covered them all. Mickeys is their ocean front restaurant for lunch and dinner. Sea Breeze is their oceanfront fine dining, and then there are Lidos, which is an outdoor bar serving tapas and sushi with an amazing view. I really enjoyed the Friday evening "Big Chill" at Lidos where I enjoyed great company, fabulous sushi, nice music and once again, fabulous views. I was fortunate enough to meet some of the hotel staff while there, and they could not have been nicer or more welcoming. It was fun to catch up with hospitality people and compare stories and experiences. They were a very fun group and educated me on Bermuda as well. I ordered room service for breakfast and found it wonderful (great food and extremely prompt service) Breakfast was set up on the patio so I could enjoy the beautiful ocean view. Heaven....

Mr. Ed Burns is the new GM and has recently arrived from New York. He seems to have very big plans for the place and is extremely well liked. He seems to bring a lot of energy and excitement to the property through his enthusiasm and fun character. He reminded me of my former GM Dale Garvin from Grand Hyatt New York. He has charisma, direction, and personality plus. I can see why the staff is excited to have him! While I enjoyed EVERY minute of my stay here, I cannot wait to return to see what improvements Mr. Burns will have made and how the renovation turns out.

What I found that make Elbow Beach Hotel such a rare gem are the staff. Everyone I encountered during my 4 day stay there was cheerful, helpful and extremely personable. There are too many to mention in all but I definitely need to bring attention to Winton at the Front Desk, George who greets you at the entrance, and our housekeeper Fredrina. Each one of them added something special to our stay.

We also met Mrs. T and her son Shawn who own the cycle shop that is on property. They could not have been kinder or more helpful. I was definitely a little worried about riding a scooter around the island but Shawn made me extremely comfortable and was incredibly patient. The best thing about the both of them is that they would NOT let you leave on a scooter if they did not feel that you were truly capable. I will admit, it is a little scary and I am not sure I would recommend it as they do drive very fast. It is an island of hills and numerous bends, and of course, they drive on the left side of the road. This was though my thrill seeking daughter's favorite experience in Bermuda. I, on the other hand was thrilled to turn in the scooters after two days with scooter in tact and my body in one piece, minus any bumps, bruises, or worse. I am hoping that Bermuda will bring golf carts to the island by the next time I am there.

I also treated myself to a massage at the spa and was not disappointed. My therapist was Sumadan who was amazing. The spa facility was lovely and quiet. The treatment room was fabulous and had its own shower, bathtub, restroom and locker, which I found very nice, private and convenient. The only thing I would say is missing is a steam room. That would be a welcome addition. (I toured Rosewood Tucker's Resort and Spa whole on the island, and their spa did not have a steam room either so maybe it is island wide)

So I mentioned the great restaurants, staff, spa, and room, but I must not forget the exquisite ½ mile beach that Elbow Beach Hotel is located on- crystal clear blue water and fine white sand! You can see it from almost anywhere you stand on the property.

The last highlight of our trip was a half-day spent on board MY Venetian, a 100 ft Benetti yacht
that is located in the Hamilton Harbor. We had an incredible lunch and tour around the island. The yacht is owned by a group called Dining Bermuda who owns several of the outstanding restaurants on the island. I will be posting a more comprehensive review of the Venetian under our yacht page. It was an experience that will NOT soon be forgotten.

As I finish up with this review, I am wondering why it has taken me 15 years to return to this beautiful little island. I can assure you, I will be back much sooner. There are several things I still want to do (visit the Crystal Caves, spend some more time at the Naval Dockyard, do high tea at the South Hampton Hotel, visit the shops in Hamilton...) But it will be the sound of tree frogs at night, the fragrant floral scent of the island, the blue ocean, and the charming Bermudians that will bring me back to this beautiful and colorful little island! And of course, I will want to see what Mr. Ed Burns and his fabulous staff will do to make The Elbow Beach Hotel even more special!

 

 

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Ritz Carlton, San Juan

Published: July 9, 2014 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Hotel Reviews

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The Ritz Carlton, San Juan, Puerto Rico
6961 Avenue Gobernadoros, Carolina
Puerto Rico, 00979-7000 USA
(787) 253-1700
www.ritzcarlton.com

 

The Ritz Carlton! Really? Are you sure? I am having a hard time trying to figure out how this luxury product and brand found it's way to this property. The first time I was here celebrating a friends birthday, I overlooked the worn carpeting cracked molding on the doors, stains on the walls and my broken air-conditioning because we had won tons of money at their in-house casino and well, were having fun. The restaurants (except Molino's) serve the worst food and just because I was highly entertained by a four-foot iguana that lives in the bushes outside the restaurant did I not get up and leave. The staff is not well trained and there was nothing that could be done about the leaking ceiling. The second time I stayed there (and I don't why I bothered) I had the same experience. This time, repairs were being done on the room above mine and the bang, bang that ensued through the hours made it necessary to move rooms, me. The bathrooms are dated and the tubs are old-fashioned. Sorry guys, I would give this five star a hotel a downgrade to a three star and for now a big SHB thumbs down.

 

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Ritz Carlton, New York

Published: July 9, 2014 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Hotel Reviews

Ritz_Carlton_New_York

 

The Ritz Carlton, New York
50 Central Park S
New York, NY 10019
212) 308-9100
www.ritzcarlton.com

 

The Ritz Carlton New York is a second home to me. I always feel so comfortable there and even pondered whether I would someday purchase an apartment through their residence program and grow old in this beautiful hotel. The rooms are bright, spacious, well appointed and from my favorite suite overlooking 59th Street, views of the park at any time of year are magnificent. I enjoy tea in the lobby (when I am not drinking Champagne) and celebrity sightings are a common place in their lobby. Cara, don't we have a picture with Mohammed Ali somewhere in our archives? The concierge staff is always so professional and we just love Maria! She has connections to the best Broadway seats and those oh-so-difficult to get into restaurants. The bartender holds court and the fifteen plus times I've been there I've noticed he alone attracts a fan club. This five star hotel get a SHB thumbs up.

 

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Dorado Beach, Ritz Carlton

Published: July 9, 2014 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Hotel Reviews

 Dorado_Beach_Ritz

 

Dorado Beach, Ritz Carlton
100 Dorado Beach
Puerto Rico 00646
(787) 626-1100
www.ritzcarlton.com

 

The Ritz Carlton Dorado Beach. What can I say? Heaven! That's all I can say. Just heaven! I told my husband I didn't want to leave; that I wanted to move in. I could go on and on about the newest addition to one of my favorite brands. I could say the food was amazing, the staff was incredible, the beaches are gorgeous, the Champagne they sent to my room was delicious along with the chocolate covered strawberries. I could say the spa is set in what looks like an old church and it's just ethereal. I could say the outdoor shower and oversized bathtubs made up the best hotel bathroom so far. Cara, let's make that a new category, shall we? But all of the accolades are an understatement. This hotel rules! It just does. The golf courses were a little wet so I didn't get to play but from what I could tell as we drove golf carts around what felt like a rain forest, I was absolutely sold. We met some really nice people too. What a bonus! This hotel is in my top ten in the world for sure!!!! I give this five star resort two SHB thumbs up!

 

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Montage Beverly Hills

Published: July 9, 2014 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Hotel Reviews

Montage Beverly Hills 


The Montage, Bevery Hills
225 N Canon Dr
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
(310) 499-4199
www.montagehotels.com

The Montage Beverly Hills is just cool and comfortable. It's an easy walk to Rodeo Drive and all of the fun boutiques and eateries in the area. The staff is nice and the rooms are beautiful. It's still new enough that the rooms are well maintained and each guest gets a little neck pillow as a gift with the letter of their last name monogramed on it. (I have a small collection now.) I like hotels that pay attention to detail and I love the little extra's that personalize my experience. The Montage gets a thumbs up from this SHB!


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Mandarin Oriental Miami

Published: July 9, 2014 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Hotel Reviews

Mandarin Oriental miami


The Mandarin Oriental, Miami
500 Brickell Key Drive
Miami, Florida 33131
(305) 913-8288
www.mandarinoriental.com


The Mandarin Hotel Miami is just beautiful. Brickell Key is booming and last month for the Miami boat show I decided to try this lovely gem overlooking the water. My immediate reaction was very favorable. The nicest bellman led us to an upgraded room I booked through my Platinum Amex program and it just beautiful, until I opened the sliding glass door and my balcony was overlooking the noisy bridge with racing motorists zooming by. I called reception and asked if we could be moved. Front desk said they could not move us then called back and said they could. We moved and the room category was downgraded and not as nice as the first one. I called reception and inquired whether we could upgrade to a suite. Reception said "yes" and the nice bellman came by to escort me to the suite I wanted. It was magnificent. Front desk said it would be a difference of $750 dollars. Yikes! That was a shock. But it was Valentine's Day so my husband and I decided to splurge. The bellman said he needed to go downstairs and return with a "contract" so we waited. When he returned he gave me a contract for the room at $3500 per night. WHAT? I politely declined, called Front Desk and he said the suite I looked at would be $3500 per night, or the same suite (overlooking the auto route in just above room #1 would be a $750 difference. The Front Desk employee was confused, didn't really speak English and after two hours, we were tired and decided to stay put in our room. Hungry from traveling all day, we went to the hotel restaurant (the only one open) and were told they would not accommodate us. The concierge recommended a short taxi ride to a close restaurant and they could not accommodate us either. We waited more than an hour for a table and the food was sub-par. This five star hotel gets a SHB thumbs down for sure until they improve their communication, hospitality and knowledge.


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Hotel Lancaster

Published: July 9, 2014 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Hotel Reviews

Hotel Lancaster


The Hotel Lancaster, Paris
7 Rue de Berri
75008 Paris, France
+33 1 40 76 40 76
www.hotel-lancaster.com

What an incredible experience. Some Paris hotel rooms can be small compared to the hotel rooms we visited around the globe, but this room the "Marlene Dietrich" suite that the Lancaster graciously upgraded us to was spectacular. Okay, let's not go overboard with the furnishings. It was typical Louis XV but the in-suite Grand Piano set the tone for a friend who is a concert pianist to entertain us nightly. The most important review of this property was the staff. The concierge and staff actually decorated the whole suite for my birthday with noise- makers, balloons and confetti. They greeted me daily by name and were so incredibly accommodating. Their Five Star rating is earned and I give it a SHB thumbs up.


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The Grand Hotel Timeo

Published: July 9, 2014 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Hotel Reviews

Grand Holel Timeo

 

Grand Hotel Timeo
Via Teatro Greco, 59
98039 Taormina Messina, Italy
+39 0942 23801
www.belmond.com


The Grand Hotel Timeo is a personal favorite for me. Like most European hotels, the King Sized beds are actually two twins that are "zipped" together and the sheets are usually some hybrid linen/cotton that really can't compare to my cozy "Frette" at home. But, people aren't at the Grand Hotel Timeo for the beds or the sheets (though, my Junior Suite was absolutely amazing and the views to die for). People go the Grand Hotel Timeo because Taormina is breathtaking and the service at this hotel is incredible. On the one side of the hotel (within walking distance) you have the Greek Theatre ruins. If you sit on the large terrace outside of reception drinking Proseco (which is a must as far as I am concerned) there are amazing views of the coast and Etna, the snow-capped volcano. While the botanic garden, lush landscaping, amazing coastal views and some of the best food I have had in Italy were all wonderful to experience, it was the staff under General Manager Lucas Finardi that made the experience one of the most memorable for me. Cara and I were celebrating (as we always do), so we planned a five-course dinner in the private reception room for ten people and Lucas Finardi arranged for a tenor to perform for us during dinner. We were serenaded with Italian opera while feasting on stuffed zucchini flowers and pasta. Yum! There was no detail that the Grand Hotel Timeo missed. It's one of my all time favorite hotels and the little town of Taormina is also pretty spectacular. This five star hotel gets the SHB thumbs up!

 

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The Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria

Published: July 9, 2014 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Hotel Reviews

Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria 

 

The Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria
Piazza, Tasso 34
80067 Sorrento, Italy
+30 081 877 711
www.exvitt.it


The Grand Hotel Excelsior is one of those little gems that everyone should know about. Still family-owned and operated, it is one of my favorites. Nestled on a cliff above the Mediterranean with views of Mt. Vesuvius and Capri, it has amazing views and the prettiest botanical gardens neatly manicured by the ground keepers. The rooms are dated and not the most luxurious we've stayed but the food, staff and their own private elevator to the Sorrento marina makes this hotel really special for me. The staff has "friended" me on Facebook and I get little messages from time to time saying "Mrs. Quirk, when you come back to see us? We miss you." Nice touch! There is a pianist who plays each morning over breakfast and a bottle of Proseco always greets me upon arrival. The concierge staff is extremely professional and has turned me on to really great restaurants in Sorrento. Cara, remember "Antiqua" where the guy serenaded us with his Mandolin? There credit card machine didn't work that night and they told us to come back another time and pay. This five-star hotel gets a SHB thumbs up. I can't wait to go back!


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Hotel George V

Published: July 9, 2014 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Hotel Reviews

Hotel George V

 

Hotel George V, Paris
31 Avenue George V
75008 Paris France
+33 1 49 52 70 00
www.fourseasons.com


The George V, what can I say? I'ts expensive. But it's worth it. The flowers, the restaurant, the Bar, the FLOWERS. I mean they have even published a book by Jeff Leatham about them and I can't tell you how many hotels have tried to copy their style. Wow! But aside from all of that glamour and their celebrity guest list (yes, Madonna filmed one her movies in her suite there) they have an elegance and sophistication that I haven't seen as nicely duplicated. My first experience at the George V was in September of 2001 right after the World Trade Center attack. I arrived at the George V tired, sad and unable to catch a flight back to the U.S. They were unable to accommodate my reservation because of other Americans stuck without flights. They offered me a room at the Marriot Charles De Gaulle instead. In my very polite French I went ballistic about my reservations (not bitchy however) and they swiftly brought me a glass of champagne asked me to wait and then escorted me to the Presidential Suite where I stayed for five days watching CNN. The staff was amazing, the spa soothing, the food, delicious and I have made the George V, a hotel staple among my favorites. Oh, and the beds and sheets are divine!


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Cipriani

Published: July 9, 2014 Written by Sheri Desmarest Category: Hotel Reviews

Hotel Cipriani

 

Hotel Cipriani
Palazzo Vendramin Venice
Giudecca, 10 30133
Venezia, Italy
+39 041 520 7744
www.belmond.com


The Hotel Cipriani is just so special. It just is. I love the Orient Express Brand. They know luxury, they really know customer service and they just plain know how to make me always feel special. When you arrive in Venice, the have a private water taxi pick you up and take you through the water canals of Venice and then to the island of Guidecca where the hotel is situated. I have put this hotel on my top ten list not because they have the best rooms (they are dated and could stand a little more luxurious bedding) but because I haven't found anything quite as unique yet. You'll pay a hefty price for butler service, but trust me it's worth it. My butler's Umberto, Giovanni and Roberto have been there for the past 15 years I have been going and it's a coveted position to obtain. They are funny, sweet, professional, witty and just terrific guys with regular people (like me) and Hollywood's famous that flock to the prized island during the Venice Film Festival each year. Cip's is one of their restaurants on a dock that looks over Piazza St. Mark's and the food is some of the best I have tasted. The other two restaurants on property are equally as tasty! The concierge are so friendly and knowledgeable and, know the tiniest restaurants in every little nook and cranny of Venice's small winding thoroughfares. The spa is nice and there is an Olympic sized pool that is filtered with seawater. Cool, right? I like taking their private launch back and forth to Venice proper.


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