Luxury Hotels I LOVED in 2011

Some hotels just do everything right. Or nearly everything. And, as we roll into another busy year of booking luxury travel for some of the coolest people on the planet, I've been reflecting on those properties I personally visited in 2011 that top my list of winners. These are the hotels that have earned a spot on my "top of mind" list, for various reasons ranging from impeccable service to ultra-cool design to impressive renovations to tiny details that wow every time.

There are of course, SO many phenomenal hotels we love, and will add to future lists as we revisit them this year or in the future. But for now, in no particular order, here is my personal Top 10 List of Hotels I Visited & Loved in 2011:

1) Four Seasons Lanai at Manele Bay
If you watched recent episodes of "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills", you got a glimpse of this gorgeous Hawaiian property on lush Lanai. I easily could have stayed a few weeks, working from my oceanview terrace in between phenomenal massages and delicious meals (both here and at sister property, the Lodge at Koele). The General Manager and his entire staff from the sales/marketing team to the reservation directors to housekeeping all go the extra mile for our Preferred Partner clients.

2) Mandarin-Oriental, Barcelona
An amazing location overlooking Passeig de Gracia, sleek/chic rooms and suites (my favorite are those with a private terrace), a fantastic spa, outdoor pool with stunning views, and an uber-friendly staff anxious to share tips about their terrific city are what put this hotel on the top of my list in Barcelona.

3) Montage Deer Valley, Deer Valley Utah
Hands down, this the best new luxury resort to open in the mountains in years. The newest in a trio that already includes favorites in Laguna and Beverly Hills, Montage Deer Valley (pictured) is as much fun in the summer (think amazing hiking, biking, white water rafting) as it is during ski season (the slopeside location is key). A gorgeous spa, terrific dining options, incredible service, and even a billiards room & bowling alley set this resort apart from others in ski country.

4) Hotel Le Bristol, Paris, France
Fresh from a multi-million dollar renovation, this classic Parisian hotel is THE place to stay for impeccable service in a traditional French setting with a modern twist. The new suites (especially those with Eiffel Tower views) are over-the-top, and the city center location is always a draw.

5) Beach Village at Hotel Del Coronado, San Diego
Want your own beach house but not ready to totally commit? No need to, as you can simply book a stay here at Beach Village on the grounds of famous Hotel Del. The only difference is, when you stay at Beach Village, you're literally steps from the sand in your private oceanview residence yet you still get to enjoy the beauty and benefits of the iconic (and newly renovated) Hotel Del.

6) The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua Resort, Kapalua, Maui
Every family we booked here this year had the same thing to say: This place is phenomenal! From the awesome views to spacious, family-friendly suites to the delicious cuisine to the friendly staff, it's a winner all around. Personally, I loved the spa/fitness center (especially the yoga classes), the stunning setting and overall vibe of this Hawaiian resort.

7) The Marbella Club, Marbella Spain
I dream about a return visit to this Costa Del Sol beach resort that exceeded all of my expectations, by a lot! Lounging by the oceanfront pool, spending time at the Thalasso Spa and relaxing on my gardenview terrace were highlights of my too-short visit to the only place I'd ever want to stay in Marbella.

8) Acqualina Resort, Sunny Isles, FL
This is truly the example of a resort that gets it right. From the minute you arrive and are welcomed by name to the warm hospitality extended til the minute you leave, coupled with gorgeous (and huge) oceanfront suites, a beautiful spa, fantastic food (delivered to your beach chair if you desire) and a gazillion activities for kids, everyone is easily pleased at Acqualina. Delicious sushi (perfect for a room-service snack) and an Il Mulino on-site are added bonuses I loved!

9) Le Royal Monceau, Paris
The oh-so-chic Royal Monceau hotel is definitely the place to stay for the stylish, fun, "not into cookie cutter hotels" crowd. Everywhere you turn is an unexpected surprise from designer Philippe Starck, but in a good, grown-up way. Lush colors and fabrics blend perfectly with the funky furnishings, and the suites (especially where JLo stayed) are simply gorgeous. The Italian and French restaurants are notable both for their whimsical decor and their sublime cuisine, with incredible service to match.

10) Four Seasons Los Angeles and Four Seasons Westlake Village
This last spot goes to sister properties as they're both on my list of faves for similar reasons: Close to home! An oldie but goodie, Four Seasons LA makes the list after super-impressing me on a "bizcation" I took in my own town last spring. I truly loved every moment of Four Seasons service at its best, and the Sunday brunch remains the best in town. And, having just revisited Four Seasons Westlake, I'll go on record saying it's my favorite spot to "get away" when I don't have time (or the desire) to get on a plane. My perfect 48-hour retreat came complete with spa time (I adore the private spa suites), fitness classes and delicious healthy food in a Zen-inspired, art-filled, pet-friendly setting (they know how to VIP the dogs!).

All of the above properties offer exclusive VIP amenities/perks to Elite Travel International clients, ranging from breakfast-inclusive rates to resort credits to spa treatments, priority upgrades, late check-out and more. For details or to book an upcoming stay at any of my favorites, send me an email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or call 310.979.9036.

An Optimistic Take on 2012

While I don't agree with the title "Travel Agents Set to Bounce Back in 2012" of this article written by Adam Leposa, it's always refreshing to read anything that validates what it is we at Elite Travel International do for our clients! I've long believed that even our most tech-savvy and sophisticated clients fully understand and appreciate my expertise and continue to witness how our extensive worldwide connections benefit them as they jetset around the globe. An excerpt of the article is below in case you missed the link on my Facebook page or Twitter feed.

According to Adam Leposa of TravelAgentCentral.com: "Travel agents received a nice Christmas present when the Miami Herald spoke of their successes. The Herald cited a study by Forrester Research that found the number of leisure travelers who enjoyed using the Internet to book travel fell from 53 percent in 2007 to 47 percent in 2010, as well as a survey by the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) that showed 44 percent of agents said they had more clients in 2010 than in 2009."

“[Travelers] don’t have hours to spend on research to compare multiple flights, multiple cruises, multiple packages,” Henry Harteveldt, a travel industry analyst at Forrester Research, told the Miami Herald. “It’s not unlike doing your taxes. Depending who you are, what your priorities are, there are some people who will choose to do it themselves or to use a professional.”

2011 also garnered increased publicity for travel agents after President Obama made comments implying that the Internet had replaced travel agents, sparking a flurry of counterarguments by industry groups like ASTA that underscored just how important the travel agent industry is.

“Travel agents work as personal advisors to provide their clients with the best travel experience before during and after their trip,” ASTA CEO Tony Gonchar wrote in a letter to the President. “Thanks to their in-depth knowledge, experience and industry connections, travel agents are able not only to save their clients money, but their most valuable possession—their time.”

Looking ahead, organizations from around the industry are forecasting positive trends for 2012. Travel Leaders’ annual Travel Trends Survey shows that over 91 percent of Travel Leaders members expect clients to spend the same or more on travel in 2012 as compared to 2011. The United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) in its annual member survey revealed that 75 percent of its members are confident of sales growth in 2012. Finally, in the 2012 Travel-Ticker Traveler Intentions survey of consumers 44 percent of respondents planned to travel more in 2012 than 2011.

For more information on how we can assist with all of your travel needs, email me directly stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or phone 310.979.9036

Acqualina Resort and Spa: Miami Nice!

When a 12-year old kid says "I want to live in this hotel" as he is leaving, you know it has to be a special place. Such was the case with my nephew, who joined me for a post-Thanksgiving weekend on the beach at Acqualina Resort and Spa in Sunny Isles (near Miami), FL. He's not the only one who feels this way! I too, found myself thinking I could easily live here in our huge one-bedroom oceanview suite with its incredible beach views, gourmet kitchen (perfect for preparing Sunday brunch en suite), a bathroom the size of many hotel rooms, and a staff that simply couldn't be nicer. From Rodrigo at the front desk to all of the guys at the valet desk and at the beach, to Tino, the gracious Maitre'd at Il Mulino (where we had one of my favorite meals in the world), to the fantastic housekeeping staff who all made fast friends with Mikey the maltipoo (who also made himself perfectly at home at this pet-friendly Leading Hotel of the World), not a single staff member could have done his or her job any better.

I travel all of the time to visit hotels all over the world and it's not often I stay somewhere and find nothing I would change. They simply do everything right at Acqualina, and the exquisite decor, the discreet high-end service, and the impressive attention to detail does not go unnoticed. Families are certainly catered to, with plenty of kids activities from watersports to basketball to ping pong and pool games, and adults who prefer a quieter getaway will find it at the 20,000 square-foot Spa by ESPA with its serene oceanfront pool, impressive complimentary crystal steam/Finnish sauna facilities, beachfront yoga classes by Yogiiza, and a 24-hour gym.

While I never really enjoyed living in South Florida during my five-year stint, this three-night stay at Acqualina Resort and Spa in Sunny Isles definitely changed my mind about the Sunshine State. We'll be back to visit my newest favorite hotel sooner than later, and I am sure my nephew is looking forward to a return visit as well!

Our Virtuoso rates always include breakfast, a resort credit, upgrade priority, VIP treatment and more. Email me for more details at stacy@elitetravelinternational.com

Virtuoso Travel Mart = My Fashion Week

A few weeks ago, I returned from the annual Virtuoso Travel Mart in Las Vegas where I had the chance to meet with hundreds of top luxury hotels and travel companies....in person, one on one....and hear about the latest, greatest openings, renovations, excusive promotions and unique opportunities for our jet-setting clients.

In essence, Virtuoso Travel Mart to someone like me who eats, breathes, sleeps luxury travel is akin to New York Fashion Week for the fashionistas. It's the ultimate "Travel Buyer's Market" and an incredible way for me to find out what's hot and happening in the luxury travel world so that we can continue to stay on top of the trends and present the absolute best ideas and options for our clients around the globe. Just like the buyer from Barney's needs to know what's hot for fall fashion, I need to know the same for luxury travel.

The amount of information I brought home from Vegas this year is beyond "blog-post" friendly, but I do want to share some of my favorite finds. Below are just a few of the very cool things I learned at Virtuoso Travel Mart 2011 (more to come in next post, I promise!):

1. Hayman Island on Australia's Great Barrier Reef reopened August 1 after its cyclone-forced closure and an extensive renovation. What wows me most are the eight brand new Beach Villas, designed by Amanresorts designer Kerry Hill. .

Each villa features a private pool, a totally private terrace, outdoor shower, water views and very cool technology that even includes Apple TV with cable and movies. The "new" Hayman has honeymoon written all over it

2. Bulgari's newest hotel will open next spring in central London (near Hyde Park), just in time for the 2012 Olympics. The luxury brand's third hotel--following Milan & Bali--will have a sleek, silver-themed design and will feature 85 rooms and suites, a private screening room, a huge spa and an indoor pool. As a sibling of Ritz-Carlton, the Bulgari London will offer our clients exclusive STARS benefits along with VIP Virtuoso perks.

3. One of my favorite Italian hotels, the Gritti Palace in Venice, is closing for a 15-month, 43 milliion Euro renovation this fall. Upon reopening in January 2013, the legendary canal-side hotel will feature modern technology and a gorgeous new room and suite product. Recently added to the Virtuoso Venice hotel portfolio is the Gritti's 225-room sister property, Hotel Danieli (shown).

Fresh from a total redo of all three wings, the historic Danieli offers our Virtuoso clients breakfast-inclusive rates, priority upgrades and a $75 credit for dinner at the famed Terraza Danieli.

4. Casa del Campo in La Romana, Dominican Republic is already an incredible vacation option for families, couples, golfers and it will be even easier for our NYC-area clients to reach when JetBlue adds twice-weekly service straight into La Romana from JFK this November. The totally renovated property features gorgeous suites and private villa homes, complete with their own private pools and access to the new BeachClub by Le Cirque.

All-inclusive options are available; our Virtuoso rates include full breakfast or a $200 spa credit depending on rate type booked. Note: There's Xmas space available for those still deciding where to spend the holidays, and until December 20, enjoy a free 5th night!

5. If all (or mostly) inclusive rates appeals to you, then you'll love the new concept from select Four Seasons hotels inlcuding those in Denver, Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, Nevis, Palm Beach, Punta Mita (shown below), Scottsdale and Whistler.

The new packages include all sorts of extras from meals to in-room movies to complimentary parking, golf, transfers, spa treatments, golf, cabana rentals and more. The specific packages vary by property and are often combinable with our Preferred Partner perks.

For more information on the hottest happenings at the best luxury hotels or to book your next luxury vacation (or business trip!), contact me via email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or call 310.979.9036.

Summer in the Mountains

In between booking incredible summer and fall vacations for our clients, I made an executive decision to take a much-needed, long weekend break to a hot new property I've been dying to see before it even opened. A huge fan of its sisters at the beach in Laguna and close by in Beverly Hills, I had no doubt that I'd fall in love at first sight with Montage Deer Valley. My hunch was 1000 percent correct, the newest Montage resort did NOT disappoint.

With its wonderful setting just minutes from downtown Park City, Utah and slopeside in Deer Valley amidst a backdrop of seemingly endless mountains, the 154-room resort is ideal for families (there are more activities for kids than I could count). It also works perfectly as a romantic getaway, was the site of a gorgeous wedding while we were there, and can easily accommodate high-end meetings and small groups. Spacious mountain-view rooms and suites, as well as huge residential-style two- to four-bedroom private residences, are beautifully decorated with plush furnishings, fireplaces, oversized tubs, full kitchens, and in most cases, patios and terraces with beautiful mountain views.

I only wish I'd added on a few extra days so I could have taken a few more mountain bike rides and hikes, and had a few more hours to relax by one of the hotel's two pools(outdoors when the sun was shining, indoors as the sun went down). The Thai yoga massage I received at Spa Montage from Brandon was one of the best I've had anywhere (including Thailand), and the food at both Apex (dont miss the lake trout) and Daly's was great. With billiard tables, video games and even four bowling lanes, Daly's is the perfect hang out after a long day in the great outdoors (such as the one we had on the Heber River rafting with the very fun team from All Seasons Sports).

Come winter, it's easy to picture skiers loving the level of luxury provided, from the custom-equipment fitting done right on-property by the hotel's own highly-trained staff to the infamous boot warmers to the hotel's slopeside location that allows incredibly easy access to Deer Valley's best runs.

The close proximity of Montage Deer Valley to Main Street Park City is another key selling point. The hotel has a fleet of Mercedes SUVs with drivers to shuttle guests back and forth, making it extremely easy to enjoy the town at their leisure. I'd definitely return to a few of the restaurants we tried, including Talisker on Main, Zoom, and Cafe Terigo. In fact, I WILL revisit these spots when I return to Montage Deer Valley next summer!

If you're considering a ski vacation this winter or looking for a last-minute summer or pre-snow fall getaway, definitely consider Montage Deer Valley. It's easy to get to from most spots (you fly into Salt Lake City) and we have amazing Virtuoso rates and added perks to offer (daily breakfast, upgrade priority, late 4pm check-out and special VIP treatment from our on-property friends!). Please contact me to inquire about summer and winter rates at Montage Deer Valley via email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or phone 310-979-9036.

Elite Travel Gal's Insider Guide to LA

This summer, I decided to try something different. Instead of traveling to faraway places (as I do constantly all year), I thought it would be nice to spend much of the summer here in LA. After all, it is my favorite city in the world. In revisiting my own city, I've had the chance to uncover and rediscover my own personal "Best of LA". Below are my insider tips on what NOT to miss when you visit Los Angeles next:

Best newish restaurants: They've all been open for a bit so aren't completely new, but those new to my favorites list include Red Medicine (pictured), Cleo at The Redbury, Scarpetta at Montage Beverly Hills, Culina at Four Seasons Los Angeles, La Sandia at Santa Monica Place and Public at The Roosevelt. Yes, four out of six of these are in hotels (all but Red Medicine) but they're better than most stand-alone restaurants in LA.

Best spots for a power breakfast, or any breakfast for that matter: BLVD at The Beverly Wilshire and the rooftop poolside restaurant at The Peninsula Beverly Hills.

Best spot for lunch with a Hollywood view: Poolside at The Conservatory at Montage Beverly Hills. Stunning views to be had of the Hollywood Hills and the fish tacos may be the best in town. Poolside at Four Seasons Los Angeles is perfect if you prefer privacy and an intimate outdoor setting with your seafood salad (my personal favorite) or veggie stir-fry.

Best spot in Malibu for a casual lunch or dinner: Cafe Habana (by Rande Gerber) at the Malibu Lumber Yard. The corn on the cob, shrimp ceviche, fish tacos and chicken enchilada are stand-outs & there's usually a celeb spotting or two!

Best casual Santa Monica lunch spot: My top vote goes to FIG at Fairmont Miramar. Dishes run the gamut from healthy (warm quinoa salad) to completely unhealthy (a hot dog with fritos on top and fries on the side). Great service, cheerful setting and always a terrific experience.

Best special occasion restaurants: All of those on my "newish favorites" also make this list, to which I'd add Whist at Viceroy Santa Monica, The Bazaar by Jose Andres at the SLS and WP24 at the Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles. After all these years, both Spago's Beverly Hills and Chinois on Main Street still deserves a shout out as they continue to impress with amazing food and warm service.

Best pizza (including gluten-free options for yours truly): Fresh Brothers, now open in Beverly Hills in addition to five other locations from Manhattan Beach to Calabasas

Best facialist in town: Hands down, the best hands in town belong to Vera Kantor, owner of VeraBella in Beverly Hills. Everyone from Nicole Richie to Madonna trust her with their skin, for good reason: she's the best.

Best juice in town: Pressed Juicery of course. Thrilled to see they've taken their healthy show on the road and opened at the Malibu Lumber Yard (as of last week) in addition to the Country Mart in Brentwood.

Best gluten-free bakery: Babycakes LA. A NYC import, this place rocks and is reason alone to drive downtown. Most of their delicious offerings (donuts, cupcakes, muffins, brownies) are gluten-free/vegan but you'd never know. We also love the chocolate brownies from Livia's. Handmade with love by a local family, these can be found for sale every Sunday at the Brentwood Farmer's Market (among others).

Best organic yogurt & treats: Cafe Rivva in Brentwood Gardens (same spot where my favorite nail salon, Nail Garden is located) is not just another Pinkberry-type frozen yogurt spot. There are multiple choices of organic flavor options, dairy free & wheat free options too. Chris the owner is fantastic, tell him I sent you if you stop by!

Best yoga spot: For years, I have been a YogaWorks loyalist and I still am. I rotate my mat between the Montana Ave, South Bay and Pacific Palisades studios depending on my schedule and who's teaching. Fave teachers include Al Tavera, Nichola Dunne, Doug Binzak and Amy Rose Stabley.

Other local gems: You'd never know about these places unless a local takes you....A Votre Sante in Brentwood for healthy cuisine morning til night, The Farmshop at the Brentwood Country Mart, Compartes in Brentwood for handmade chocolates, Lenny's Deli in Pacific Palisades for a typical deli-style meal, and Lares or Don Antonios for traditional Mexican food.

This is just a sampling of my personal favorites. Of course, we can always assist with booking you into the BEST hotels here in LA as we have personal relationships with the general managers and staff at each. It goes without saying that Elite Travel International clients always get the VIP treatment and lots of extra special perks here in LA. Contact us elitetravelgal@gmail.com or 310.979.9036 for help with your next Los Angeles experience.

Stylish Summer Travel Specials

Still deciding where to travel this summer? Need help narrowing down the options? Don't worry, as that is what we are here for. We know how overwhelming it can be when you're bombarded with emails, tweets and promos on a daily basis, so we regularly scour our luxury travel deal-filled inbox on your behalf. Below are a few favorite offers currently available to those seeking a relaxing upscale getaway in style.

Ventana Inn & Spa: Book a two-night stay in Big Sur through a preferred travel agency like Elite Travel International and receive a $100 to $200 resort credit depending on room/suite category. Book by July 18 for travel through December 30.

La Casa Que Canta: Enjoy Zihuatanejo at its best at this romantic gem where 3rd night is free through October. Our exclusive rates include breakfast for two, round-trip airport transfers + 20% discount on additional meals.

Four Seasons Milan: Shop til you drop then relax & dine in style at this fashionable hotel where you will enjoy 150 Euro food/beverage credit & 20% discount off city-wide limo services through Sept 4. In August, 3rd night's half off. Plus, enjoy our Preferred Partner perks (daily breakfast, a comp lunch and priority upgrade!).

Four Seasons Hualalai: You'll be hard-pressed to find a better family travel offer to Hawaii this summer. Fresh from a facelift, this luxurious Big Island resort (pictured) offers our clients a second room at 50% off Jun 20-July 21 and August 21-Nov 17, as well as Preferred Partner amenities (breakfast and a complimentary lunch).

XIV Beacon: Stay "Fit & Fabulous" this summer at this Boston boutique hotel with a wellness package priced from $985/night inclusive of a one-hour private yoga session in-room or on the private roof deck; one-day bike rental; one-hour deep tissue massage; and daily power breakfast.

Ritz-Carlton Caribbean: From Cancun to Grand Cayman to St. Thomas to San Juan (and Jamaica too), the Ritz-Carlton resorts of the region offer various 4th and 5th night free package options all summer long. Go all-inclusive from $439/night in Jamaica or Reconnect in St Thomas for $489/night with $100 hotel credit as an extra bonus. Be sure to ask us about our STARs priority perks!

Why book through Elite Travel International? We will always get you the absolute best value and VIP recognition from our friends at luxury hotels worldwide, and you'll enjoy exclusive VIP perks & amenities thanks to our privileged partnership with Virtuoso and our preferred agency status with Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Orient Express, Rosewood, Park Hyatt, Starwood, Leading Hotels of the World, Small Luxury Hotels, Preferred Hotels & others around the globe.
For more ideas and info, email stacy@elitetravelinternational.com or phone 310.979.9036