Travel News

Top 10 Infinity Pools on the Caribbean Sea

by Jane on May 9, 2013

The beach, the pools, the view – these are major reasons why we travel to the Caribbean. And when we can get all in one, that’s ideal. So we scoured the islands to find the best infinity pools in the Caribbean. These spots – with gorgeous views overlooking the ocean – are perfect for sitting back, relaxing, and soaking up that sun.

Four Seasons Resort Nevis

Four Seasons Resort, Nevis

This Four Seasons sits on a large, attractive beach on the small island of Nevis. The gorgeous rooms here may be the highlight, with up-to-date technology, massive bathrooms, and pretty yellow-and-blue decor. But the reflection pool, an adults-only pool overlooking the ocean, is a major perk as well. Poolside guests can enjoy free snacks, as well as poolside lunch and drink service, throughout the day. The hotel also features two other slightly larger pools as well.

Tagged as: Cancun, Caribbean, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Nevis, Punta Cana, St. Barts, St. Lucia, St. Thomas, Turks and Caicos

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In the Spotlight: Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC’s Still Got It!

by Jennifer on May 9, 2013

Lobby at the Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC

Gansevoort Meatpacking opened in 2004, so it may be hard to believe that it’s still selling out rooms and people continue to line up at the door to be a part of the hotel’s nightlife most weekends. And yet it’s true, especially thanks to a huge 2012 renovation that has helped the hotel stay on the cutting edge with a fresh makeover (good-bye passé neon, hello sophistication). Sure, the hotel is most popular with the party set, so it may not be best for those who want a low-key, quiet getaway. But amazing rooftop views, an outdoor heated pool, an Exhale Spa offering tons of fitness classes, and delicious sushi at Toy restaurant all help solidify Gansevoort Meatpacking as one of downtown New York’s most luxurious, energetic, and vibrant hotel options. Read more about this hip spot — and see more fab photos — after the jump.

Tagged as: In the Spotlight, Luxury Hotels, New York City, party hotels

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Fact or Fakeout: $175,000 Hotel Packages, Hotel-Brand Tequilas for Cinco de Mayo, and More!

by Carolina on May 7, 2013

Superior King at St. Regis Atlanta; Atlanta, GA

Superior King Room at St. Regis Atlanta; Atlanta, GA

1. FACT OR FAKEOUT? The St. Regis Atlanta rolled out the brand’s first signature tequila just in time for the Cinco de Mayo celebrations this weekend.

2. FACT OR FAKEOUT? The Rosewood Mayakoba in Riviera Maya is offering a $175,000 hotel package for a soon-to-be groom and his two best friends that includes private golf lessons with renowned golf instructor Jim McLean.

3. FACT OR FAKEOUT? TV host Bethenny Frankel and soon-to-be ex-husband Jason Hoppy spent some days at the Fontainebleau Resort Miami Beach to celebrate their divorce settlement.

4. FACT OR FAKEOUT? The Rio All Suites Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas is connecting its two towers via a zip line 337 feet above the ground.

5. FACT OR FAKEOUT? Robert Pattison was kicked out of the Bowery Hotel in New York after getting into a fight when one of the bellmen mentioned the actor’s on-and-off-again girlfriend, Kristen Stewart.

Check out the answers after the jump!

Tagged as: Atlanta, Fact or Fakeout, Las Vegas, Miami, New York City, Riviera Maya

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Our 12 Favorite Hotel Bars For After-Work Drinks

by Carolina on May 2, 2013

Hotel bars are often a convenient spot for a nightcap or a quick after-work drink (anything to take the edge off!) while on a business trip — but not all have the right vibe and noise level to help free your mind of all the stress after a long day of work. Whether you have been working all day in your office, or running from meeting to meeting while on the road, these great hotel bars are a safe bet for some after-work fun.

Red Owl Tavern at Hotel Monaco Philadelphia

The Red Owl offers Independence Mall views and great drinks.

The Red Owl offers Independence Hall views and great drinks.

The Red Owl Tavern is a hip spot located off the lobby at Hotel Monaco. It offers a fantastic wine list (put together by Kimpton Hotels master sommelier Emily Wines), and hand-crafted cocktails. With huge windows overlooking Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, a couple of cool industrial-inspired details, and house-cured charcuterie board specials, the bar attracts a varied crowd of professionals.

Tagged as: Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Miami, New York City, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Santa Monica, Washington D.C

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In the Spotlight: Altis Hotel — Lisbon

by Jane on May 2, 2013

Lobby at the Altis Hotel -- Lisbon

The Altis Hotel, with 300 rooms, is the largest property in the Altis chain and is certainly one of the brand’s most luxurious hotels. Elegant rooms are a decent size with plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and TVs embedded in the mirrors. A major renovation was completed in 2011, and rooms feel fresh and contemporary. The hotel’s long list of amenities includes a restaurant on the 12th floor with great city views, a cozy lobby bar, and a coffee shop. The Altis also has a health club with an indoor pool, fitness center, and several treatment rooms. While this property has a reputation as a business hotel, it also attracts tourists with its convenient location near numerous attractions. A spacious marble lobby features large art installations and plenty of space to sit. Check out more incredible photos after the jump or read our full review now»

Tagged as: In the Spotlight, Lisbon

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Summer Road Trips: Weekend Getaways from NYC, D.C., L.A, and More!

by Jane on May 1, 2013

Summertime is fast-approaching and we can’t wait till the days of top-down convertibles, cover-ups and flip-flops dress codes, and mini weekend getaways. After all, a share can be great but there’s something about a spontaneous trip to the beach to really make it feel like summer. So whether your home base is New York or Los Angeles, D.C. or San Francisco, or even Boston, we have a beach destination that can easily be reached via a quick road trip. So grab a map, your sunglasses, and some road trippin’ munchies, and make your escape!

Weekend Getaway from New York City: Montauk

Travel time: 2 hours, 30 minutes via car

Visit Montauk before the "too cool" Hamptons vibe has rubbed off on it.

It may seem cliche, but there’s a reason why Manhattanites flock to the Hamptons come summer. Home to upscale restaurants, trendy workout clubs, quirky shops, and of course, beautiful beaches, it offers a nice reprieve from the congestion and smog of the city — while maintaining that cool (and sometimes snobbish) city vibe. Montauk, located at the furthest tip, however, has a more laid-back feel; residents fear that a recent influx of visitors will taint its unpretentious reputation, but for now it’s a nice alternative to the ultra-exclusive vibe of other Hamptons.

Where to Stay: A cool party spot, Sole East attracts a young, beautiful crowd. With a tasty on-site restaurant, a small pool with loungers, and beach cruisers available for rent, it’s a great pick.

Tagged as: Boston, Boutique Hotels, California, Cape Cod, Historic Hotels, Kid-Friendly Hotels, Los Angeles, Luxury Hotels, Montauk, Monterey, New York City, party hotels, Romantic Hotels, San Francisco, Santa Barbara, The Hamptons, Value Hotels, Virginia Beach, Washington D.C

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Coolest Hotel Amenities in the Hamptons

by Devon on April 30, 2013

Bike Loans at C/O The Maidstone

The Hamptons has a reputation as one of the East Coast’s premier beach destinations, filled with natural beauty and luxe amenities. So whether they’re high-end spas, Buddha gardens, or some exclusive yacht parking, these Hamptonite amenities are some of our favorite hotel extras ever. Take a look at the perks that make weekends away in the Hamptons even better!

Tagged as: The Hamptons

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Fact or Fakeout: Stealing Hotel Furniture, a Jail-Turned-Hotel, and More!

by Devon on April 30, 2013

The exterior of the Lloyd Hotel; Amsterdam

1. FACT OR FAKEOUT? Amsterdam’s Lloyd Hotel and Cultural Embassy once operated as a Nazi-run jail during the German occupation.

2. FACT OR FAKEOUT? American travelers admit that the hotel items they are most likely to steal are pieces of furniture like lamps and artwork. (Ed. note: Not including toiletries because, come on.)

3. FACT OR FAKEOUT? Treasure Island and New York New York in Las Vegas are testing a digital lost and found database where guests can search for misplaced items online.

4. FACT OR FAKEOUT? Playboy hotelier Vikram Chatwal had his rehab-bound friend Lindsey Lohan escorted out of the Dream Downtown after the two were seen fighting at Cherry restaurant.

5. FACT OR FAKEOUT? Kimpton hotels — including properties like Hotel Manoco and Hotel Rogue — are getting physical with their new fitness-inspired room service, where guests can have their in-room yoga mats rolled out for them at no additional charge.

Check out the answers after the jump!

Tagged as: Amsterdam, Fact or Fakeout, Las Vegas, New York City

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12 Gorgeous Urban Rooftop Pools

by Carolina on April 26, 2013

The Canyon Ranch in Miami has a gorgeous rooftop pool with stunning ocean views.

Deciding on a destination for an upcoming trip is never easy. While the beach and mountains may beckon, cities are a great option year-round, offering an array of activities for every type of getaway. After a long day of sight-seeing, however, some may long for those quiet, relaxing moments by the pool that are often easier to come by in non-urban destinations. So we’ve rounded up our favorite urban rooftop pools, so you can find relaxation even in a bustling metropolis. Click through the slideshow and discover some of our favorite hotel rooftop pools.

Tagged as: Albuquerque, Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, New York City, San Antonio, San Diego, Seattle, Washington

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Foto Friday: Name Your Price!

by Devon on April 26, 2013

We’re dreaming of heading out to Monterey County for a little R&R, and what better way to enjoy the Golden State than in a room with a view! We checked out our options, and found that plenty of stays along the coast offer phenomenal ocean views. Some hotels charge an arm and a leg for a peak at the Pacific waters, while others offer pretty reasonable rates for a breathtaking view. But sometimes it can be hard to tell which is which…

The Inn at Spanish Bay is a luxurious resort on Pebble Beach, with top-notch amenities including a sprawling golf course, five on-site restaurants, a spa, and spacious guest rooms. But visitors pay for this level of luxury, with standard Ocean View Rooms setting you back about $930 per night.

Not too far from the Inn at Spanish Bay is the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, which comes with much less sticker shock. While still a gorgeous, luxurious stay, a standard Ocean View Room at the Monterey Plaza Hotel will cost about a third (roughly $350 per night) of what Spanish Bay asks for. And Monterey Plaza doesn’t skimp on the extras, either: The hotel boasts a rooftop spa, a beautiful outdoor restaurant, and large, elegant guest rooms.

Can you tell which view is which? Check out the rooms each hotel offers by clicking on the links above, take a guess in the comments section below, and then find the answer after the jump!