Pera Palace Hotel, Jumeirah, Istanbul

There are the handful of hotels around the world that are actual historical landmarks. The Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah in Istanbul[end] is one such hotel. Overlooking the magnificent Golden Horn, Pera Palace is located in the Tepebasi district of Pera once known as 'Little Europe'. Fortunately, Pera Palace has retained the charm of the 19th century elegance while integrating the latest state-of-the-art in technology. After all, this was the first building in Istanbul to provide hot running water for its guests and was home to the first electric elevator in Turkey!

We checked into Pera Palace after a long flight from Dallas, Texas, to Istanbul. We arrived at just before 6pm and were greeted in 5-star fashion with a complimentary glass of local apple juice at check-in. Check-in was a breeze and within minutes we were being escorted to our Deluxe Golden Horn View King Room with private balcony on the 3rd floor. The real treat was a ride in the 100+ year-old elevator, which is still in operation. Of course, modern elevators are also available, but how often do you get the chance to ride in a piece of history? The historic aspects of this beautiful hotel are evident throughout. In the lobby is displayed a sedan chair that was used to transport hotel guests arriving on the Orient Express from the train station to the Pera Palace. It was carried by four "bearers." The list of famous people who have stayed here is long and includes such names as Hemingway, Garbo, Christie, Hitchcock, Gabor, and King Edward VIII, to name a few. The great leader and founder of modern-day Turkey, Ataturk, stayed frequently at the Pera Palace and today Room 101 is a museum filled with Ataturk memorabilia.

Pera Palace was designed in a blend of Art Nouveau, Oriental and Neoclassic styles and original 19th century features, including precious, White Carrara marbles and exquisite Murano glass chandeliers were conserved when the hotel was renovated in 2008 and restored to its original grandeur while adding state-of-the-art technology.

Golden Horn View King room

As might be expected from a 5-star hotel, our room was unrivaled for comfort and beauty. Everything looked fresh and new. The room was spotlessly clean and everything was in its place. The views on the large, wall-mounted flat-screen television with satellite programming took a back seat to the view of the Golden Horn available by simply pressing the controls to electrically open the plush draperies and then opening the balcony door. We could see the Golden Horn in the distance and could also see a few large mosques. The street below was quite noisy, but when you closed the balcony door, the noise was gone. We had a small table and one chair situated on our balcony.

All rooms and suites are furnished with handwoven carpets, special fabrics and artworks, and the marble bathrooms resemble a traditional hammam. Our bathroom had a claw-foot tub behind an enclosure so you could use it as a shower. The rain-shower head had plenty of water pressure and we always had hot water. The wall of the shower facing the sleeping area is made of a lovely patterned frosted glass and when the bathroom lights are on, the light shines through this glass wall into the sleeping area. You can also see a silhouette of the person showering. This didn't really bother us, but it is worth noting. The vanity had a single sink and a shelf below that could be used for stowing your items. A lighted magnifying makeup mirror was attached to one wall at the end of the vanity. Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, bar soap and body lotion were provided, along with a nice loofah mitt. Of course, the Turkish towels were plush!

Our room came with two robes and two pairs of slippers and a hair dryer could be found in one of the drawers in the armoire closet. There was a dresser with three large drawers and a desk with chair. Internet speeds were good and WiFi is complimentary. Bottled water is complimentary and replenished twice per day in your room.

There are pictures hung on the wall depicting various aspects of the hotel's history. A beautiful chandelier graces the ceiling and there is a lamp on each nightstand beside the bed. A chaise lounge is situated on one side of the bed and it is comfortable for reclining. A full-length mirror is attached to the wall across from the armoire.

One feature that we had never seen before but thought was a terrific idea was the presence of a charging station inside the safe! When you put your electronics inside the safe, you can charge them at the same time. What a great feature!

The sunset over Istanbul from our Deluxe Golden Horn View room

After a long day of flying, we were not really in the mood for a heavy meal. We decided to visit the Orient Terrace, the hotel's patio cocktail lounge that also offers a menu of light snack items. As the sun began to set, Rickee and I enjoyed an excellent selection of dips along with our favorite beverages. The service was crisp and professional and the ambiance was delightful.

Enjoying a light meal at Orient Terrace

After our light meal, we were exhausted from all the travel, so we quickly returned to the comfort of our room. There is nothing more important than a comfortable bed to help shed the effects of jet lag and the bed in our Golden Horn View room was superb. A comfortable mattress and the highest quality linens made for a very restful night's sleep. A pillow menu is available if you don't like the pillows on the bed.

The next morning, I wasted no time in making my way to the Agatha Restaurant (named after Agatha Christie, a frequent guest at the hotel where it is said she completed Murder on the Orient Express) for the breakfast buffet, which is served daily from 6:30am to 10:30am. An expansive buffet is complemented by eggs made-to-order from the open kitchen. Everything was delicious.

Agatha Restaurant

Unfortunately, our brief stay at Pera Palace this trip did not allow us to enjoy lunch or dinner at Agatha Restaurant. That is a shame because the menu looks amazing. Oh well, I guess we will just have to return for another visit in the future. We also did not have time to visit the Pera Spa, a traditional Turkish bath whose roots go back to the Roman Empire. In addition to the Turkish bath, the spa has a steam bath, Jacuzzi, sauna, a fully equipped gym and an indoor jet-streamed swimming pool.

During our stay, we used the services of Concierge on a couple of occasions and found the entire staff to be friendly and helpful. The Turkish people are generally very warm and friendly, and the staff at Pera Palace exemplifies those characteristics.

Whenever we travel to special cities around the world, we always try to spend at least two to three days exploring all that the city has to offer. If you are planning to embark or disembark a cruise in Istanbul, plan at least three days to take in this incredible city. And, if you want to treat yourself to something really special, book your stay at Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah, Istanbul. Unquestionably, this is one of the greatest hotels in the world!

To check their website for more information click here.

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Fairmont Mara Safari Club

Surrounded on three sides by the Mara River, and on the edge of the world’s Seventh “New” Wonder of the World – the Masai Mara - Fairmont Mara Safari Club is the epitome of tented luxury.

The main lodge at the center of camp hosts an indoor restaurant, bar and library with Internet access to keep the relatives up to date with safari adventures. A spacious outside deck overhangs the river and leads to a heated pool, complete with bar and private massage tents.

With four poster, pillow-top beds and a veranda overlooking the hippo and crocodile-filled river, each of the 50 tents at Fairmont Mara Safari Club is superbly furnished with its own private, three-piece bathroom, including a number of “outdoor showers” in select tents.The larger-sized accommodations also feature expanded decks which allow for private dining, a new service. Outdoor dining is enhanced with the creation of a boma, a structure influenced by traditional homesteads, where guests can enjoy a cultural dinner reflecting not only African cuisine but also rich musical accompaniment.

Guests can choose from a wide range of activities at Fairmont Mara Safari Club, including game drives and balloon safaris over the Mara plains capped with a champagne breakfast on the savannah or a stroll in the footprints of the hippo-trodden path escorted by a Maasai Moran. The location provides a perfect base for visiting the Masai Mara, one of the world’s richest wildlife reserves, and home to an astounding array of animals including zebras, cheetahs, wildebeests, gazelles and of course the “Big Five”.

We enjoy a bush breakfast after a morning game drive

Mara Safari Club is what is referred to as a “tented” facility. But, campers be warned, these are not your typical KOA-style tents. Each tent consists of heavy canvas sides and roof mounted to a concrete foundation. Like most tents, you enter and exit through a zippered slit on the front of the tent. Each tent also has a large front porch with a view of the Mara River where hippos and crocs tend to hang out and wallow in the muddy waters.

While the tents look pretty plain from the outside, once inside they reveal all the comforts of a 5-star hotel including a roomy walk-in shower, separate toilet room, vanity and plush towels. The queen-sized bed was very comfortable with nice down pillows. If this is roughing it, you can count us in! There is even a mini-bar/refrigerator inside a beautiful leather covered trunk. We are in tent 47 which is one of the newest ones that also has an outdoor shower (in addition to the indoor shower). It is about a 7-minute walk to the lobby on the stone tree-lined path.

Cosmas, our excellent driver and guide

The open air lobby is only rustic in its decor. The property looks brand new and everything is pristine, just as you would expect from Fairmont. There is a small library off the main lobby with two computers where Internet access is available. However, connection speeds out here in the wilds of Africa are pretty slow. No, they are EXTREMELY slow. But, who comes on a safari for the Internet? You will also notice there are no televisions in the safari camps. Thank goodness.

Game drives are included in the room rates and depart from the lobby each morning at 6:30 am. Afternoon game drives depart at 3:30 pm. Game drives usually last 3 to 4 hours. In the mornings, you will return back in time for breakfast and in the evening, you will be back in time for dinner. Mara Safari Club also offers several optional excursions such as hot air balloon rides, bush breakfasts and Maasai Village Tours.

I think it is safe to say that our stay at Mara Safari Club is one of the most memorable experiences in our personal or professional lives. This is a truly magical place and no Kenya safari would be complete without a stay here. Our only regret is that we did not plan at least four days at this amazing property.

For more information, go to Fairmont Mara Safari Club website

Banyan Tree - Male, Seychelles

There are few resorts that rise to the level of Banyan Tree, Seychelles. We decided to spend a couple of days recovering from the long flight before boarding our Silversea cruise. When we arrived, we were escorted up the beautiful sweeping staircase to the main building where we were welcomed and taken to the veranda with its magnificent view of the ocean. Here we sat and sipped iced ginger tea and freshened up with a cold scented cloth. A hotel representative came out to the veranda to check us in and give us our room key. After breakfast, we went back to the lobby where one of the hotel employees asked to take our picture. We weren’t sure why and we didn’t really look our best after being on an aircraft since Tuesday, but we smiled and the photo was taken in front of one of the banyan trees. On our last night at this wonderful place, the photo, framed in silk with a small Banyan Tree logo at the bottom, was placed on our bed at turndown as a memento of our stay.

From the lobby, guests are offered complimentary “buggy” (golf cart) rides to the villas, which can be a fair distance away. Each villa has a lockable gate leading to the patio (ours was at the end of a beautiful stone pathway surrounded by vegetation), private pool, outdoor veranda and villa. In case you missed it, I said private pool. The private infinity pool is a great place to take a cool splash after lying in the sun, or to sit and sip cocktails at sundown. After the pool is cleaned each day, lots of beautiful tropical flowers are floated on the surface. Nice touch! There is a large Balinese-style lounger that can accommodate two next to the pool. The private veranda features a teak dining table and chairs and a sofa. A ceiling fan keeps the breeze circulating. The jet-pool, complete with floating blossoms, is built into the large boulders that had most likely been part of the landscape since the beginning of time. The view of the lush surroundings and the ocean from our Pool Villa By-the-Rocks could not have been more spectacular.

The villa itself, with its contemporary Creole architecture and high sloped ceilings, is rustic but elegant. You enter from the patio through double sliding glass doors. The king-sized bed faces a wall of glass that looks out over the ocean. For our arrival, our room attendant had scattered flower blossoms on the bed and spelled out “Welcome to Banyan Tree” in pieces of palm frond. There is a sofa with lots of loose throw pillows, coffee table, desk, chair, and entertainment center with satellite TV and mini-bar. A tea/coffeemaker was provided along with a selection of coffees and teas. Local artists were commissioned to produce paintings for the bedroom based on the island’s legendary Coco-de-mer nut, and indigenous artifacts offer a unique sense of place. This feeling is enhanced by the scented oils and incense that were burned each evening in our villa and the Asian-inspired CD that filled the space with peaceful, relaxing music. The villa bathroom is spacious and spectacularly outfitted with Banyan Tree products, each packaged in individual small earthenware pots. There are “his and her” vanities with beautiful vessel sinks and two closets with a dresser between them containing the safe. The “hers” vanity has a magnifying makeup mirror and a hairdryer. The toilet area also had a bidet. Bathrobes, slippers, spa sandals and a beach bag are provided, all made of material sporting the Banyan Tree signature brown-and-cream floral design. Complimentary bottled water placed by the bed each night was also nestled in a pretty bag made from this same fabric. The sunken shower/tub has a wall of glass overlooking the ocean. Of course, there are blinds you can lower in case you are concerned about privacy. However, there is little chance that anyone will see you since the villas are so well positioned that it is almost impossible to see another villa.

The Banyan Tree Seychelles also offers outdoor tennis courts, mountain bikes, water sports facilities including snorkeling and canoeing, a health club/gymnasium, a helipad, game room/library, and a wedding pavilion. Wi-Fi is available in the lobby and main hotel building and there is an internet connection in each villa. There are two bars, La Varangue where you can enjoy tapas or a fragrant shisha (water pipe), and the pool bar which overlooks the spectacular free-form infinity pool. The hotel could also arrange for sightseeing and island-hopping, diving and fishing expeditions. All the wonderful in-suite amenities and more are available for purchase at the Banyan Tree Gallery, which showcases indigenous arts and crafts. It is at the Gallery that we discovered that the scent of the oil and incense burned each night in our villa changes daily.

The accommodations and overall setting puts Banyan Tree Seychelles at the top of our list in worldwide pre-cruise/post-cruise accommodations. However, notwithstanding the on-premises Thai restaurant, Saffron, in our opinion, the resort’s dining experience did not measure up to the quality of the rest of the property. Food is very expensive here compared to Europe or the USA. Our evening Thai buffet was $75 (US) per person, not including drinks and gratuities. However, the food at Saffron was exceptional and plentiful. The main restaurant, Au Jardin d’Espices, serves international favorites in a casual setting overlooking Intendance Bay and was the place where we had breakfast each morning. The breakfast menu and buffet were good, but we found the menu for other meals to be uninspired and service here was spotty. We tried the specialty Creole-inspired restaurant, Chez Lamar, one evening and, while the food was good, the service was very slow and you had better like seafood because there are no alternate red meat or chicken dishes offered. We dined al fresco at Chez Lamar in a beautiful setting on a patio overlooking a wetland area and were serenaded by a guitarist playing and singing lovely music. We never had room service, but were intrigued by the possibility of having a barbecue outside by our pool or having dinner served to us on the beach. Both were dining options offered by the Banyan Tree.

The Banyan Tree Spa, on the other hand, is perhaps the best we have enjoyed anywhere in the world, on land or sea. It is situated on a hillside overlooking the ocean and surrounded by lush tropical foliage. We indulged in a 60-minute couple’s massage that was performed in an open-air massage pavilion with a view of the ocean from a vantage point high above the treetops. The sounds of birds singing and the roar of the ocean were natural here and did not have to be achieved via CD as in other spas we have visited. It was just like what you see in the magazine ads, but never see in real life. Banyan Tree Spas take a holistic approach to physical and spiritual well-being, providing a sanctuary for the senses. The handpicked therapists undergo 500 hours of training in Banyan Tree’s Spa Academies in Thailand and Indonesia, where they are immersed in the Banyan Tree Spa philosophy. A stay at Banyan Tree Seychelles would not be complete without a visit, or several, to the spa where therapeutic spa treatments and wonderfully soothing massages will rejuvenate the body and mind.

Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts has a policy of hiring its employees from the local communities. Turnover rate is very low and new staff are recruited through a referral program. Consequently, all know each other and some are even related. This makes for happy employees and it shows in the friendly atmosphere and great service provided at the Banyan Tree. This Corporate Social Responsibility extends to the environment, as well, through the establishment of the Green Imperative Fund to widen the reach and effectiveness of the company’s pro-environment efforts. Projects could range from marine life conservation and urban clean-up programs to community health and education support. This fund gives Banyan Tree guests an opportunity to participate by contributing $1 per person for every night they spend in a Banyan Tree property. This contribution is made under an “opt out” agreement and the Banyan Tree matches the contributions dollar for dollar to develop the Green Imperative Fund. The Banyan Tree Seychelles has a turtle conservation program and monitors its wetlands for birds and fresh-water turtles.

Banyan Tree Seychelles is a truly magical place with its own signature blend of romance and Asian sensuality. The philosophy behind the hotel is “based on providing a place for rejuvenation of the body, mind and soul – a Sanctuary for the Senses.” Mission accomplished.

Banyan Tree Seychelles CruiseReport.com Editor’s Rating: 9 out of 10

For more information, visit their website at www.banyantree.com

Mercer Hotel Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the great cruise embarkation/disembarkation port cities in the world. In fact, Barcelona is now the 4th most popular cruise port! There is so much to see and do in Barcelona that several days are needed to even begin to take it all in. When traveling to Barcelona, it is important to find the perfect hotel accommodations. We always look for hotels with a great reputation, good location and excellent service. We found just such a hotel during our last visit to Barcelona: The Mercer Hotel. Not only is Mercer Hotel Barcelona listed in the Top 100 Hotels by International Traveller, but we would go so far as to say it is our favorite hotel in Barcelona!

Deluxe room

Located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter and with just 28 rooms, the Mercer Hotel Barcelona is a unique establishment that has restored an historically valuable heritage building, whose origins go back to the 1st century AD. The Mercer has all the modern conveniences you expect from a world-class boutique hotel, but signs of the city's ancient past can be seen everywhere you look. Some of the original Roman city walls have been preserved in one section of the hotel.

The view of the Gothic Quarter from the rooftop terrace

We arrived at The Mercer a day later than expected due to travel delays. Our flight out of Dallas had been canceled and, to make matters worse, when we did arrive in Barcelona a day later than expected, we did so with none of our luggage. When we arrived at the hotel to check in, we were warmly welcomed with a beverage. When the concierge noticed that we had no luggage, he could not have been more accommodating. He took down all of our lost luggage information and said he would contact the airline on our behalf. It was nice to know that someone was actually doing something to solve our problem. He also gave us directions to a shopping center within walking distance where we could purchase some incidentals just in case our luggage did not arrive. The following morning, the concierge said he had been in contact with American Airlines and that our luggage was on the flight due to arrive in Barcelona that morning. It was recommended that I take a taxi back to the airport to collect the luggage just to be safe. We were scheduled to depart the hotel at noon to embark a cruise ship and he was concerned that the luggage may not be delivered in time. As it turned out, he was correct. I went to the airport and, thankfully, our luggage was there! Crisis averted.

Rickee with Jordi Garcia, Mercer Hotel Sales Manager

Our ultra-contemporary Deluxe room was located on the second floor and everything looked brand new. The bed was a welcome sight after being up for more than 30 hours and all the jet lag.The room was whisper quiet and comfortable. The beautiful beamed ceiling and hardwood floors added flair to the decor. Large windows overlooked a courtyard with a two-story wall on one end that was covered with aromatic plants. We could open the window and breathe in the wonderful smell of the plants. Excellent Molton Brown bathroom amenities complemented the roomy shower which had both a rain-shower head and a handheld wand. The complimentary Wi-Fi Internet service was very fast. Our Deluxe room rate included breakfast which was beautifully presented and delicious. The hotel has a very classy, and well-stocked bar just down the corridor from the check-in desk. An outdoor swimming pool, bar and terrace are located on the top floor of the hotel. From what we are told, this is a popular spot for locals to visit in the summer. The view of the Gothic Quarter from the terrace was amazing!

Well-appointed bathroom

Perhaps the best feature of The Mercer is the location. The hotel is situated right in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. Narrow cobblestone streets, originally designed and built for horses, not cars, make for interesting walks through the old part of the city. There are dozens of restaurants and bars within quick walking distance from the hotel. And, the famous Las Ramblas shopping district is less than a 10-minute walk from the hotel. The oceanfront is also within easy walking distance.

When you consider the location, the amenities and the unmatched service, The Mercer Hotel is our pick as the best place to stay in Barcelona before or after your next cruise.

The Mercer Hotel offers the following services: internet Access, outdoor pool, free Wi-fi, babysitting service upon request, handicapped access, laundry, private function facilities, private transfers, valet parking, personal shopper upon request, in-room massages, car rental, bike rental, hair dresser, shoe shining, and private tours. In-room facilities: safebox, designer toiletries, turndown service, hairdryer, free Wi-fi, daily newspaper, rain effect shower sound-proof rooms, bathtub in some rooms, 24-hr. room service, satellite TV, ironing service.

Visit theMercer Hotel website

Originally posted on: 12/16/2013

Hotel Lord Byron - Rome, Italy

The Hotel Lord Byron was once a patrician villa built in 1910. This small, “off the beaten path” property, located in the exclusive Parioli quarter of Rome, offers guests a high degree of luxury and service by a multi-lingual staff. The hotel is just a short walk to the Villa Borghese and the Via Veneto, and a stroll through the magnificent Borghese Park to the Spanish Steps and the Piazza del Popolo.

As part of The Leading Small Hotels of the World, the Lord Byron assures guests of getting special treatment. What the property lacks in facilities, it makes up for with charm, service and comfortable accommodations. While the 32-room luxury hotel does not offer a spa or swimming pool, it is home to an award-winning Italian gourmet restaurant, Sapori del Lord Byron, and a lounge and wine bar, Il Salotto, with a clubroom atmosphere.

All rooms and suites represent a delicate balance of the old world and the new. Our corner suite had been recently re-designed (as have all the rooms on the 4th floor) in a 1930’s art-deco style. A large Carrera marble bathroom housed a bathtub/shower with rain-shower head, a toilet, bidet and marble sink. A small shelving unit could be used for storing personal items and was where you found the shampoo, body wash and body lotion along with shower cap, shoeshine glove and cotton swabs. Towels were large and plush. A large walk-in closet with electronic safe was large enough for all of our luggage and had plenty of hanger space. A built-in dresser provided drawer space. The closet light was activated by a motion sensor and turned off automatically after a certain amount of time of no motion. 

The bedroom was spacious and comfortable with deep red carpeting and fabric-covered walls in a subtle milk-chocolate herringbone pattern. The doors and ceiling were surrounded with beautiful moldings. Two large floor-to-ceiling glass doors opened to a step-out wraparound balcony which overlooked the front of the hotel and a beautiful little courtyard area. The blinds and sheers covering these doors were opened and closed by a bedside remote control. There was a desk with phone and a small table with two chairs which could be used for en suite dining. Opposite the bed was a corner unit that houses the minibar/fridge and a fairly wimpy 15” television. All the furniture was especially made for the hotel. Art work on the walls featured Roman scenes. The only thing missing was a full-length mirror. You know, women notice those things.

Perhaps the best feature, and for me the most important, was the bed. Our room had two twin beds that had been combined to form a queen-size bed with a large dark wooden headboard. Dark brown suede insets on each side of the headboard were protected from greasy heads by two white pieces of removable fabric with the hotel's initials embroidered on them. The mattresses were firm and the pillows extermely heavy but, when combined, they yielded four nights of the best sleep I can remember. I did not even have to adjust my pillows during the night, something I do continually at home. I would gladly pay a premium price per pillow if I could find them in the U.S. 

The room was also extremely quiet, partly due to the hotel’s solid construction as well as the property’s secluded location. There is literally no traffic noise, a claim that hotels on Rome’s popular Via Veneto cannot easily make. Non-smoking rooms are available and guest room amenities include WiFi access, satellite color TV, telephone, individual climate control, minibar, electronic safe, walk-in closet, towel heater, hair dryer, and luxury bathrobes and slippers. The hotel usually offers a courtesy shuttle service to the city center and Via Veneto but, since it was August and a big vacation month for Italians, the shuttle was not running. However, if you didn't feel like walking, taxis were readily available at the hotel.

Sapori del Lord Byron restaurant

One of the great assets Hotel Lord Byron has to offer guests is the Sapori del Lord Byron restaurant. In addition to offering guests a wide variety of regional dishes and the best Italian wines, Sapori is the winner of an “Award of Excellence” granted by Wine Spectator in 2007. Sapori is worth a visit even if you do not stay at Lord Byron. It is in this elegant venue each morning that hotel guests are treated to a lovely complimentary buffet breakfast featuring such delights as homemade croissants and breads, gourmet preserves, fresh fruits and juices, cheeses, eggs cooked to order, breakfast meats, and natural cereals. The talented Executive Chef, Jean Luc Fruneau, meticulously selects the freshest seasonal ingredients for his a la carte menu. We enjoyed a specially prepared pasta dish and bruschetta for lunch on our last day at the hotel and everything was spectacular, including the impeccable service.

For more information, visit their website at http://www.lordbyronhotel.com/en

Originally posted on: 1/19/2009

Hotel Palazzo Manfredi - Rome, Italy

Whenever your cruise embarks/disembarks in Civitavecchia, you simply have to plan on spending a few extra days in Rome[end]. This is one of the greatest cities in the world, so to simply fly into Rome and go directly to your ship would be a tourism crime. As a great tourist destination, Rome has no shortage of excellent hotels. We recently had the opportunity to spend an evening in one of the very best: the Palazzo Manfredi.

Hotel Palazzo Manfredi

As you can see from the photo above, Palazzo Manfredi is located within clear view of the Colosseum. We arrived at our hotel at around 11am, a little early for the 2:00pm check-in time. The receptionist, Helen, offered to store our luggage for us until 2:00pm so we could go out to do some discovering on our own. Palazzo Manfredi is a Relais & Chateuax property with only has 14 rooms. The AROMA restaurant on the roof/terrace of the hotel has received 1 Michelin star. We are anxious to see our room, but will have to wait until after we do some "Roming" around (see what I did there?). The hotel is less than a five-minute walk to the Colosseum, and The Forum is only a few more minutes from there.

After doing a bit of exploring, we returned to the hotel at 2:00pm to find our room ready for us. Helen escorted us up the tiny elevator to our 3rd floor room (42). We were completely blown away by the room. At 269 sq. ft., the room is impeccably appointed and has the best view of any hotel room in which we have ever stayed, and we have stayed in quite a few. This corner room has one window facing a park and another facing the Colosseum. A site below our window is in the process of being excavated for ancient ruins.

The view from our room (42)

The room has a comfortable bed, top-quality linens, and nice furnishings. The wood floors are beautiful. The eclectic decor bridges a gap between contemporary and Italian traditional, and it does so quite elegantly. A large, flat-screen HD TV is situated across from the bed and sits atop one of the most unusual tables you will see anywhere. The non-functioning fireplace is backlit for ambiance. A small table with two chairs makes a perfect spot to enjoy a bottle of chilled Prosecco. There is a stocked mini-bar for your use (charges apply). Closet space is ample and contains drawers and an electronic safe.

Room 42, Palazzo Manfredi

The bathroom is roomy with a nice-sized walk-in shower and the coolest sink I have ever seen. The large vanity offers plenty of room for us to put our "stuff". One wall of the shower has two tall, narrow windows offering a view of the Colosseum while you are showering! The large rain shower head is a joy and water pressure was excellent. Large, thick towels are plush and absorbent and can be warmed prior to use by turning on the heated towel rack. Bathroom amenities are also top-quality and consist of soap, shampoo, hair conditioner, bath foam and body lotion. Bath robes and really comfy slippers are found in the closet. A hair dryer is furnished.

I want a sink like this in my bathroom at home!

Colosseum at night, view from room 42

The Palazzo Manfredi has it all: beautiful rooms, a great location, excellent service and a 1-Michelin star restaurant! Our only regret is that we had but one night to spend here before returning to the USA. For more information about Palazzo Manfedi, visit their website click here.

Originally posted on: 9/2/2015

Intercontinental Hotel New York Times Square

Rising 36 stories above the New York skyline, the InterContinental New York Times Square is in the heart of the world-famous Theater district – the epicenter of the theatre,[end] dining, fashion, media, and business worlds. The Intercontinental makes for a great pre-/post-cruise property thanks to its central location and comfortable accommodations. The hotel has 607 guestrooms and suites that deliver panoramic views over Times Square, the Hudson River and the city via floor-to-ceiling windows and large spa-inspired bathrooms with walk-in rain showers.

What They Say:

Situated in the Times Square neighborhood, the hotel brings the InterContinental touch to one of New York City’s most popular areas. Located on Eighth Avenue and 44th street, the hotel is close to thousands of restaurants including those on “Restaurant Row” and the Times Square office district with leading media, law, fashion, publishing and financial companies. Adding to the neighborhood diversity, the hotel borders the Clinton district also known as historical “Hells Kitchen.” Known for its Off Broadway theaters, chic restaurants, trendy bars and home to a number of broadcast and music-recording studios, Clinton provides a fascinating detour for guests.

The hotel is close to every major transportation center in Manhattan and is easily accessible by bus and subway, including a subway station accessible beneath the hotel, making it a convenient base to explore the vibrant city.

Drawing upon natural elements, the 607 guestrooms are designed to evoke the feeling of a chic Manhattan residence and offer dramatic panoramic views over the city, Times Square, and the Hudson River. The oversized bathrooms offer a spa-like experience with walk-in rain showers accentuated with midnight blue mosaic tile designed to resemble sparkling water. Appealing to both the business and leisure traveler, all rooms feature a convenient work area, a 42-inch High-Definition flat screen television, wired and wireless internet options and other technological amenities. Each guestroom is created to be a warm and inviting respite from the hustle of the city.

Located on the corner of each floor are Avenue Studios, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows capturing north, south and east exposures offering dynamic views of the New York skyline. The rooms feature a separate seating area making the suites a perfect option for entertaining friends or holding small business meetings.

Mirroring New York City’s dynamic and international culinary scene, dining is a pleasurable, multi-faceted experience at the InterContinental New York Times Square. Located adjacent to the hotel is the restaurant Ça Va, a new French brasserie from celebrity Chef Todd English.

Ça Va serves French brasserie fare as well as playful, contemporary interpretations of the classics. With English’s signature prix-fix menu, diners will experience a variety of Ça Va favorites, served family style, within a more succinct dining time. Accommodating up to 56 diners, Ça Va’s private dining room overlooks a relaxing courtyard garden in the midst of bustling midtown Manhattan. Diners can choose from a selection of Todd English’s most popular brasserie creations, as well as custom menus.

Ça Va Lounge complete with a working fireplace and a warm, inviting interior makes it a destination for visitors and locals alike. The Ça Va Lounge will offer guests a unique beverage program developed by acclaimed mixologist Francesco Lafranconi. It will include signature drinks and a well-curated wine list as well as a wide selection of draft artisan beers served alongside Brasserie Bar Bites. Both the lounge and the restaurant have a separate entrance on 44th street and are open to hotel as well as outside guests.

Ça Va Marché, a quick-service market and café located adjacent to the main dining room, will offer an array of authentic French delicacies for breakfast and lunch.

What We Say:

Our room located on the 34th floor of this new property was large, comfortable and spotlessly clean. The 42" HD TV was one of the largest and nicest we have seen in any hotel. A large desk provided an excellent workspace. The king-sized bed was comfortable with quality linens and plush pillows. The bathroom was well designed, contemporary and large enough to accommodate 2 people getting ready in the morning, something you don't see in many NYC hotels. Our only "nit" to pick would be the crashing sound of adjacent room doors slamming shut, a pet peeve of ours. Otherwise, the room was eerily quiet (a good thing) and offered a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

We found the Intercontinental's location to be perfect for us. We were able to easily walk to the heart of Times Square, the shops of 5th Avenue, and the quirky restaurants of Hell's Kitchen. We found the staff to be unobtrusive and polite. The Concierge was more than willing to map out a walking route for us to spend a day shopping in New York.

The Ça Va restaurant is a comfortable spot for breakfast, even though I personally would like to see them open a little earlier than 7am (I am an early riser). We did not try Ça Va's interesting lunch or dinner menus. After all, this is New York, restaurant capital of the world. However, with a longer stay in NYC, I would not hesitate to see what Todd English has come up with.

Too our surprise, this property does not offer a Concierge lounge, something we have enjoyed in other ICH properties around the world. Nevertheless, anyone looking for a comfortable, well-situated hotel in New York City should consider Intercontinental Times Square. This was our fourth trip to NYC and I can honestly say that Intercontinental New York Times Square is our new favorite home away from home while visiting the Big Apple.

Originally posted on: 5/22/2013

Hotel InterContinental Wellington, New Zealand

Adjacent to Wellington’s waterfront, InterContinental Wellington is the most centrally-located global five-star hotel in New Zealand’s capital city. We had the opportunity to enjoy one night after our Silversea Silver Discoverer Sub-Antarctic cruise in January, 2015. In spite of arriving in the morning, we were quickly checked-in and escorted to our 9th floor King Club Deluxe room. Our room was spotlessly clean and wonderfully appointed. The furnishings and carpeting all appeared to be fresh and new. Perhaps this was a result of the recent major renovation of the property.

King Club Deluxe

Club InterContinental Guest Rooms offer an even greater sense of luxury with additional comfort features, including state-of-the-art electronic room controls which include the curtains (operated by the touch of a button while still in bed), digital lighting, air conditioning/heating and optional frosting of the glass in the shower windows.

One of the benefits of staying in a Club InterContinental Guest Room is having access to the personalized service of the Club InterContinental Lounge, located on the 7th floor. Our room also included complimentary Wi-Fi, which was quite responsive and reliable. The huge, flat screen HD television had a long list of program options. Most importantly, the bed was super-comfortable with the highest quality linens and decadent pillows.

Club InterContinental Lounge

The Club InterContinental Lounge takes full advantage of the hotel’s location, spanning the total width of the hotel and overlooking the whole harbor with truly stunning views, day and night. During the 2014 renovation, five guest rooms were sacrificed to make room for the superb lounge space. The lounge was one of the nicest we have ever experienced in any hotel.

Complementing the views and enhancing the ambience of luxurious comfort, the lounge features three cuisine occasions during each day along with all-day barista coffee. The Club InterContinental chef prepares a hot and cold buffet breakfast, afternoon tea of sweet and savory treats and evening canapés, served with a selection of the finest craft beers and New Zealand’s wines during twilight drinks.

Comfortable seating in the InterContinental Club Lounge

It is the seamless and personal service of the team that makes your Wellington experience truly memorable. Spend time with the award-winning concierge team whose tips and insider knowledge can help you discover the arts, events, shopping, and culinary cultures. On our visit, the concierge was anxious to offer suggestions for local restaurants within walking distance of the hotel.

Unfortunately, we only had one night to spend at the InterContinental, so we did not have the opportunity to try Chameleon Restaurant. Consistently reviewed as one of the best restaurants in Wellington, the Chameleon Restaurant provides the perfect backdrop for a new style of menu which encourages diners to indulge with a number of plates offering delicious flavors over the course of a meal. We did look over the menu, which looked quite innovative and enticing. With a dedication to incorporating sustainable products wherever possible, the Chameleon chef de cuisine utilizes local sources for the ingredients of seasonal menus, from organic salad greens and Eco-pork to fresh fish straight from the arrival jetty and organic chickens, topped off with hand-crafted treats created by the in-house pastry team. 

Chameleon Restaurant

There is so much more to say about this incredible property. I only wish we had spent more time in Wellington to explore this interesting city, and this amazing property. In our opinion, when traveling to Wellington, there is no reason to look any further than InterContinental.

For more information, go to Hotel Website

Originally posted on: 2/1/2015

Trump National Doral - Miami

No matter who you are or where you live, you have heard the name Trump. And, when embarking or disembarking a cruise in Miami or Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale), you have the opportunity to spend a few days at a five-star resort bearing the name of the 45th President of the United States.

The beautiful main lobby is drenched in marble and evokes a feeling of quality and class. The property has been in existence for 55 years, and was operated by Marriott for a period of time. The Trump Organization purchased Doral in 2012 and immediately began a massive renovation that took 18 months to complete. Virtually nothing was left untouched. As a child, Mr. Trump spent time at this hotel with his father, so he took a very personal interest in the project.

This prestigious 800-acre property boasts a completely renovated clubhouse, 643 plush guestrooms and suites, new signature restaurants, four enhanced championship golf courses, plus all-new recreational amenities. The newly redesigned Trump Spa & Suites (there are 48 Spa Suites) invites guests to luxuriate in the splendor of it all. Mr. Trump, Ivanka and Eric Trump were all very involved in the renovation, leaving no detail to chance. This property is on par with any we have experienced anywhere in the world. Yes, it is that nice.

Golf

Trump Doral may be best known for it's four championship golf courses, most notably, the Blue Monster, which has hosted a PGA tour event every year since 1962. So, for those of you who love the game of golf, you will have a lot of options without ever leaving the property!

Golden Palm Hole 11

Spa

For those who prefer a spa getaway, the 48,000 square-foot Trump Spa and Suites includes a spa facility with 28 treatment rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, private locker rooms with Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and salon. My personal spa experience further confirmed that this is one of the nicest spas in the world.

Trump Spa and Suites

Tennis

Of course, Trump Doral offers tennis, too.

Pre-/Post-Cruise packages

For cruise guests, Trump National Doral offers a special pre-/post-cruise package that includes all of the following:

• Deluxe Accommodations (King or Double Queen Bedding)

• Daily breakfast for two at BLT Prime

• Transportation to and from the Port of Miami

• Luggage storage (up to two pieces per person)

• Early check-in and late check-out (based on availability)

• Self Parking

For details, check out the attached PDF

Trump® Pets - You can bring your dog (under 50 lbs) and Trump will greet them with a special toy, a doggie bed and even a special menu.

• In-room dining menu offering irresistible gourmet treats

• Water bowl and fresh bottled water

• Toys promising hours of entertainment

• Map of the city highlighting fun outdoor dog-friendly parks

Trump® Kids

• Children's room service menu

• Special treatments and pricing at our luxury spas

• Children's menu and pricing at our signature restaurants

• Personal Attaché™ service

• Map of the city with ‘must see' spots

• Nanny services (rates apply)

• Use of the swimming pool

• Swim lessons (rates apply)

• Cribs with plush linens

• Bed rails

• Rollaway bed

• Board games

• Children's books

• In-suite children's movie channel (rates apply)

REVIEW

Our visit to Trump Doral was both a pre-cruise and post-cruise stay. We disembarked Holland America's Koningsdam in Ft. Lauderdale on a Sunday and flew to Barbados to embark Windstar Star Pride on Wednesday. That gave us three days to explore all that the Trump property has to offer. We took the ship's bus transfer to the Miami airport from Ft. Lauderdale. Trump Doral is approximately seven miles from Miami International, so we decided to use Uber to get from the airport to the resort. Our Uber driver showed up in less than two minutes and within 12 minutes, we were pulling up to the security guard station at Trump Doral. As a point of reference, the Uber ride cost only $15.75 whereas a taxi would have been more than $40.

We arranged for an early check-in and arrived at about 10am. We were greeted in the driveway by a bellman who took our luggage and directed us to the reception desk for check-in. Check-in was quick and efficient. A look around the lobby reveals many photos of "The Donald" hosting various celebrities and golfing greats at the resort. Next to the reception desk is a large acrylic urn filled with Trump Virgin Mojito Water, a delicious and refreshing drink for guests to enjoy. We were fortunate enough to confiscate the recipe and we will be making this at home.

After we checked in, a bellman, Luis, offered to drive us to our suite in the Bobby Jones Villa (all rooms and suites are in villas named for famous golfers). Golf carts are used to shuttle guests around the property, even though the walk to our villa was not that long. 

Bobby Jones Villa

Luis took our luggage to our suite (Premier Two-Bedroom Suite #1122)  and we had our first look at the large accommodations consisting of a large living room, separate dining room, small kitchenette and a beautiful bedroom. There are two bathrooms, both with marble showers and one has a bathtub. There are two 55" flat screen, HD televisions.

Dining

There are multiple dining options available at the resort, but on our first night at the property we had reservations at a local restaurant just a mile away. One benefit guests at Trump Doral enjoy is complimentary transportation within a five-mile radius. 

On our first morning, we enjoyed the breakfast buffet at BLT Prime, Trump Doral's on-site restaurant for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The atmosphere at BLT Prime is casual during the day and there is seating indoors and covered patio seating outdoors. The buffet was extensive with a nice variety of items to suit every taste. An eggs made-to-order station is staffed with a chef to prepare fresh egg dishes. The chicken sausage was very nice and the bacon was some of the best I have had in years.

On another day, we chose to have lunch at BLT Prime. We selected a large, comfortable booth with a nice view of the Blue Monster golf course. 

Soon after we were seated, our waiter arrived with BLT's signature warm and crusty popovers. The popovers are served with butter and sea salt and are addictive. As you can see from the photo below, I could not even wait to take a picture before attacking one of the popovers.

BLT Prime signature popovers

The lunch menu at BLT Prime is quite extensive. A variety of salads, appetizers, steaks, entrees and sides should satisfy any taste. A word to the wise: appetizers are large enough for two people to share. We learned the hard way by ordering two appetizers, a Tuna Tartare and Roasted Beets. The Tuna Tartare was a large mound of fresh Ahi tuna chunks sitting atop avocado, floating in a soy lime dressing. Delicious. For a main course, I ordered the Black Angus Beef Short Rib Burger and Rickee ordered the Beer Battered Black Grouper sandwich. Both sandwiches were served on toasted Brioche buns along with a huge portion of crispy French fries. Both entrees were delicious.

For dinner one evening, we visited Champions Bar and Grill. Champions is open each day from 11am to 11pm and is the property's sports-themed bar and restaurant. There are flat screen TVs lining the walls with sports playing on each. The menu offers American cuisine and cocktails. Guests can choose from an array of appetizers such as the Jumbo “Red Tiger” Shrimp, "Chicken Lollipops," and Artisan Meats and Cheese Board. Two of the specialty entrees include the “Big Boy” burger with sirloin pulled pork con mojo, aged gruyere and mushrooms, and the “St. Louis Ribs” with spiced rub, house barbeque pork, cheddar grits and a vinegar slaw.

Champions Bar & Grill

Pool

For sun-lovers, the Royal Palm pool features two pool areas, one for families, and another "Relaxation Pool" reserved for adults.

Royal Palm Pool

When we visited the pool, we were greeted by a smiling attendant who covered two loungers with terrycloth covers. Two fresh towels were also provided. Soon, Alan, another attendant, arrived with two cups of delicious and refreshing watermelon water and a menu for the pool restaurant, the Palm Grill. 

We spent an entire afternoon just relaxing at the pool. Alan stopped by frequently to see if we needed anything and was very personable. 

After spending three days at Trump Doral, we have come to the conclusion that this would be the place we would most like to return to for a pre-/post-cruise stay in the Miami area. We have reviewed many hotels and resorts in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale, and no place even comes close to Trump National Doral.

For more information, check their website here.

Las Brisas - Acapulco, Mexico

Enjoying the private cabana pool

When we scheduled our 14-night South American cruise on Silversea's Silver Spirit, and learned that we would be disembarking in Acapulco on Rickee's birthday, we wanted to spend a couple of nights somewhere special. When I asked my contact at Silversea if he could recommend a resort in Acapulco, without hesitation he referred me to Las Brisas. After all, this is one of the properties that Silversea uses for its pre-/post-cruise guests. That in and of itself speaks highly of the property.

Enjoying a signature pink Margarita

I remember hearing about Las Brisas from way back in the 70's when it was all the rage, and was "the place" to stay in Acapulco. Apparently, not much has changed since then. Las Brisas continues to be as popular today as it was then. Set on 44 acres of lush hibiscus gardens overlooking Acapulco Bay, the resort is truly one of the most romantic destinations in the world. After our transfer from the ship to Las Brisas, we were greeted in the reception area with a pink frozen Margarita, a Las Brisas tradition. After we checked in, we were taken to our room, not by elevator as you might expect, but by one of the property's signature pink and white Jeeps.

Since the property is basically carved into a mountain, the Jeep ride is up steep twists and turns, so steep that a walk up or down would require a great degree of physical fitness. Fortunately, a Jeep ride is only a phone call away and rides are complimentary. When we arrived at our casita, the door was opened to one of the most amazing views that we have ever seen. A huge private terrace was all ours, including a private swimming pool, Jacuzzi, shaded outdoor dining area and lounge chairs. The view reminded us of our stay at Banyan Tree in the Seychelles, it was that impressive. it was immediately apparent why this is one of the most popular honeymoon spots in the world. Romantic is the word that comes to mind.

Panoramic view from our private terrace

Even though the terrace, pool and Jacuzzi are over-the-top, the "room" portion of the casita is no less impressive. There are 214 individual casitas, 49 Master and Junior Suites with pools. All rooms have air conditioning, ceiling fans, LCD TVs with cable, mini bars, safes, telephone, and hair dryer. Every room also enjoys the unique in-room Las Brisas Continental breakfast. Each morning about 7 AM we would find a pot of fresh coffee, fruit and danish in our "magic box". You will have to stay at Las Brisas to learn about the "magic box", we can't give everything away.

Special touches to help us celebrate Rickee's birthday

When it comes time to dine, Las Brisas offers a lot of options. For Rickee's birthday we made reservations at Bellavista, the hotel's premier evening dining venue. When we arrived, we were seated outdoors at a candlelit table with the most amazing view of Acapulco Bay and all the lights of the city. We found the food and service to be good, but the main attraction here is all about the view and the atmosphere. Truly, this is the most romantic dining setting we have ever experienced. Unfortunately, we did not try any of the other dining venues. For one thing, the view from our terrace was so spectacular and comfortable that we took full advantage of the room service. The food was delivered fresh and hot and it was so good, why leave the room? I did have one interesting experience regarding my desire for onion rings. I ordered a cheeseburger and asked for onion rings instead of fries. Even though onion rings are not on the menu, I was assured that they could make them. When the food was delivered, I was shocked to see a plate full of sliced raw onion! Apparently, something was lost in translation. I told the delivery person that what I wanted was "fried" onion rings. He apologized, took the sliced onions away and returned 15 minutes later with a plate of delicious, perfectly prepared onion rings.

Private cabanas have their own individual signs

Even though we did not have a chance to visit them, Las Brisas offers several other dining venues. El Tulipan is their breakfast spot with views of Acapulco Bay. La Concha is located inside the La Concha Beach Club, the hotel's private beach facility which is available to all guests. The Deli-Shop is a relaxed, casual snack bar offering sandwiches and beverages. And, the Sunset Bar is a small outdoor bar overlooking Acapulco Bay.

Needless to say, two nights is not nearly enough time to fully enjoy this amazing property. Not only can we highly recommend Las Brisas to our readers as a premium luxury resort for a pre-/post-cruise stay, we have placed it high on our list of properties that we hope to visit again in the future.

For more information, go to their website: https://www.lasbrisascollection.com/hotels/acapulco

Originally posted on: 3/25/2011

Ritz-Carlton Santiago, Chile

Prior to embarkation of our Silversea Silver Spirit cruise from Valparaiso to Acapulco, we had the opportunity to spend two nights in Santiago, the capital city of Chile.  As you can imagine, we were a little hesitant to spend additional time in Chile only one week after the country had been rocked by an 8.8 magnitude earthquake. However, the opportunity to visit a great city like this does not come along every day, so we decided to take the calculated risk. We were very fortunate to enjoy the accommodations of The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago during our stay. As it turns out, this is the only Ritz-Carlton in South America!

Ritz-Carlton Santiago

Rickee stops for a photo in front of Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago is settled in El Golf, one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Santiago. Within just three short years of existence, the hotel was honored with several awards and recognitions, proof of the renowned world class service Ritz-Carlton provides. The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago has worked the city’s magic through its outlets and many services.

DINING

Adra restaurant is one of those places to discover the flavors of the Pacific Ocean and more. We were fortunate to experience the talents of Chef Tomás Olivera, who prepared a special, multi-course meal for us highlighting many traditional Chilean dishes. The meal was spectacular and not one we will soon forget. I cannot overlook the trio of Pisco Sours, the traditional cocktail of Chile, that were served to start the meal.

Wine 365 is the only restaurant devoted to the magic of Chilean wine and allows you to taste a different wine each day of the year. On Fridays, Wine 365 opens its doors to initiate the most attractive of its rituals: the wine tasting. The acknowledged sommelier, Christian Vargas, unveils all the secrets of each wine, indulging everyone’s passion for the subject. The wine tasting is enjoyed together with specially made gastronomic samples prepared by Chef Tomás Olivera. 

ACCOMMODATIONS

The hotel has 205 guestrooms including 49 Club Level Rooms, 3 Club Suites, 12 Executive Suites and one Ritz-Carlton® Presidential Suite. The Ritz-Carlton Club Level® is located on floors 9, 10 and 11 providing the experience of a boutique hotel inside The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago, and hosting private Club Lounge. All rooms and suites are decorated with warm and soft colors improving the guest leisure and imported furnishings providing a Latin-American touch. The oversize marble bathrooms have upscale bath amenities and bath butler service. 

THE RITZ-CARLTON CLUB®

Guests wishing for an added measure of privacy and attention may select The Ritz-Carlton Club®. It features a private floor with special amenities including a lounge, the personal service of a Club Concierge and five complimentary food and beverage presentations throughout the day. Our suite was on the 9th floor giving us access to the Club and we took full advantage of its amenities.

GUESTROOM FEATURES

• High speed internet connection

• Individual air conditioning controls

• Marble bathrooms with separate toilets, featuring hair dryer

• Remote controlled television

• Bedside radio with digital clock/alarm

• Smoke detectors and sprinklers

• Multi-line telephones

• Honor Bar

• Private in-room safes with enough space for a laptop

• Fax connection

THE BOUTIQUE SPA

Located on the 15th floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago and crowned by a glass dome, the Boutique Spa offers the ultimate view of Santiago surrounded by the Andes Mountains, and all of this from the indoor pool or the Jacuzzi. Adorned with palm trees and an ambience of relaxation powered by candle light, The Boutique Spa has a complete workout center on the second floor. Including 24 different types of treatments, steam room, a sauna, men’s and women’s locker room, The Boutique Spa is open from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.  Unfortunately, during our stay here right after a major earthquake, the spa pool had been damaged in the quake and the spa was closed.

SUMMARY

If you are going to be embarking or disembarking in Valparaiso, Chile, you would be wise to spend at least three days in Santiago. Santiago is only about 75 miles from the port of Valparaiso and the Ritz-Carlton can assist you in arranging a transfer to/from your ship or the airport of Santiago. In spite of being a true 5-star hotel, we found The Ritz-Carlton to be a great value and an excellent property. Even though the hotel is not located in the historic downtown area, it is only a few meters from the El Golf subway station. And, the subway in Santiago is the cleanest and safest we have ever been on...anywhere!

For more information, go to www.ritzcarlton.com/Santiago

Originally posted on: 1/16/2012