Luxury

I recently rediscovered the property where my husband and I got married 10+ years ago.  At that time it was the Maui Prince, a beautiful resort located in Makena on the island of Maui.  The price was right - it was not the most well-known property on the island or a “luxury brand” with the glitz and glamour, which made it the perfect place for us!  What we loved about the hotel was t

Ever wonder where all the celebrities are vacationing in Italy? They wander the beautiful Amalfi Coast! Read more about the historic and scenic southern coast of Italy and get insider information from Lisa Fantino, who specializes is vacations and destination weddings to the area.

1.    What makes you an expert on Amalfi Coast?

After Thursday's Travelers' Night In all about hotels I was inspired. Hotels can be so much more than just a place to lay your head after a long day of adventure. They should embody the place you are visiting, and show off what the destination has to offer. So much of a hotel experience can be in the view from the room, something often overlooked. I know I have picked a cheaper 'garden view' rather than splurge for what could have been stunning scenery. But what better way to wake up and be reminded why it is we travel?

Hotels are a huge part of travel, whether they are the main event of the trip or not. Travelers' from around the globe gathered and discussed the best properties in the world, shared their favorite views, and gave tips on getting deals and negociating rooms. Room 77 who specializes in a great deal with a great room, sponsored the event and gave away travel swag packs and three lucky people got $100 credit to the site!  Read all for all about glorious hotels.

Before I go any further, I will admit that I am not a gambler, and don’t really have any use for clubs these days. I love really healthy food, and local specialties. So right off the bat, I am not The Venetian Las Vegas' normal customer. I may also be a customer service connoisseur. Whew. Now that that’s off my chest….

It’s the small touches that can make a good resort great! On my recent California road trip, I had the opportunity to spend a few days at Ojai Valley Inn & Spa and found it to be a welcome surprise.

I have been trying to tap into my artistic side in 2011 and have been taking classes at a local gallery with my daughter who is a bright young artist – unlike her mother! We have been taking glass mosaic, painting, pottery courses and I have found that I love to work and create with glass.

On my recent Pacific Coast Highway roadtrip, I made a brief stop in the quaint little town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. This luxurious area, filled with boutique shops, high-end galleries and incredible dining, is frequented by rich and famous from around the globe and has been written about ad nauseum by journalists and bloggers alike. 

"Welcome to Parsonage! I’m Bill Parsons” is what I heard as I was greeted with a glass of chardonnay upon arrival.  Parsonage Winery in Carmel Valley is family owned and operated and there is no shortage of hospitality from the moment you arrive. This is not your standard tasting room or wine tasting, is it above and beyond. 

The Marquis Los Cabos came with big expectations. Everyone I spoke to raved about the property, and these were people that traveled the world staying in lux accommodations. Now that I have experienced the Marquis, I have to say I am going to be raving about it as well. Not only was the property beautiful and well-maintained, but it had a sense of ‘invisible hospitality’. Service that isn’t flashy, just thoughtful.