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Archive for January, 2008
Hilton Hotels Renovates World Wide
Jan 25th
As promised in 2006, Hilton Hotels has begun many of their renovations around the world. This year, alone the Hilton chain will expend nearly $50 million of the $1 billion total they plan on using in their refurbishment project. Some renovations include the Hilton Paris Hotel which is closed until March 2008, the Hilton Waikiki Prince Kuhio and the Millennium Seoul Hilton.
As senior VP of brand management, Jeff Diskin claims that “we’re big believes that change is good and we want each guest to have a consistently great experience at any Hilton Hotel around the globe. That’s why over the past year and a half we’ve been making big changes at… more than 500 Hilton Hotels.” They also plan on building 18 brand new properties and eight new conversions as well.
To ensure that guests get what they want, Hilton has incorporated a Guest Experience improvement collaboration with Bevis Design Associates (BDA). By using guest feedback Hilton and BDA have already designed four innovate and thoroughly modern guest rooms that include just what visitors asked for including sustainable materials, more natural light in rooms and better online pricing options.
Paul Bevis, owner of BDA, is over the moon about the hotel and expects travelers to feel the same. “I’m thrilled to be working with the Hilton brand… to create designs that reflect the brand’s new, exciting direction. Hilton’s redesigned guest rooms are sure to become a favorite among business and leisure travelers alike.”
Photo courtesy of sletoh.com
Top 10 Hidden Hotel Gems in Europe
Jan 23rd
Continuing on with our European winners of the 2008 Traveler’s Choice Awards hosted by Tripadvisor, we are now looking at the Top 10 Best Hidden Hotel Gems. As the name implies, these hotels are unknown treasures that run along the road less traveled. However, they offer some of the most hospitable service in some of the best locations in all of Europe. What does that mean for you? Impeccable staff and prime locality in a more hushed hotel setting; ie: no screaming babies, stuffy hallways or crammed restaurants. Enough babbling, let’s check them out!
1. Golden Well (U Zlate Studne) in Prague, Czech Republic: Steeped in centuries of history, the Golden Well is a ‘hideaway’, tucked into the romantic rose gardens of the Prague Castle. It once housed a Roman Emperor, Bohemian King and a famous astronomer. Nearly destroyed during the communist reign, the hotel was restored to its full beauty in 200.
2. Anastasis Apartments in Santorini, Greece: Anastasis encompasses the best of modern Grecian living melded with antiquity. It’s rooms are very simple, making it very tranquil yet are filled with items that many other residence do not provide like an infinity pool with awing views of the bay and adjacent village, wooden sundeck with curtains for a private moment and amazing sunsets, seldom found anywhere else.
3. Ikies – Traditional Houses in Oia, Greece: Situated on the outskirts of a romantic olden village, Ikies hangs on the edge of the island, quite literally, proving the perfect backdrop for breathtaking views from private and shared patios as well as the infinity pool. With a simple Greecian décor, doused in white and comfort, it may be impossible to find a place more personalized and tranquil than this.
4. Residence Corte Grimani in Venice, Italy: Residence Corte Grimani literally lies within a castle. It has been completely refurbished to compliment its 17th century Venetian roots. Interestingly, each of the 15 apartments that make up the residence, are furnished in three distinct Venetian designs, many of which have fantastic views of the canal.
5. Arcadia Residence in Prague, Czech Republic: The Arcadia Residence is nestled into the heard of the quiet historic center of Prague, while still maintain a walking distance from the charming Old Town section of the city. The quaint rooms feel like home away from home and the hotel matches the magic of Prague brick for brick.
6. Coswarth House in Padstow, England: The 5 star Coswarth house is so discrete that we had a difficult time pulling valuable information on it, aside from the many awards it has one including the 5 Star Bed & Breakfast Visit Britain Silver Award along with Tripadvisor’s “Best Hidden Gem” honor. However, what we can say is that each and every review was filled with word’s like – best, perfect, excellent, romantic, charming, tasteful, fabulous, friendly, attention to detail, personalized and fantastic; need we say more?
7. Casa Leone in Chania, Greece: Casa Leone’s 1998 renovation actually brought the hotel back in time, six centuries back to be exact, into the Venetian era that it was first built. Not only is the interior incredible – it is filled with wooden staircases and intricate wrought iron – but so are the views of the “Cretan Caribbean.”
8. Hotel Tagoo in Mykonos, Greece: Built into a cliffside, Tagoo offers a very natural way to relax; as the hotel calls it “luxurious barefoot chic.” Tagoo offers unmatched luxury where guests can either choose to live out their vacation in a natural, bohemian way or can join the jet-set party goers in town.
9. Enigma Hotel Apartments in Fira, Greece: There is no other hotel on the list with views quite like the Enigma. The hotel offers spectacular sites from its own back yard including the sparkling Aegean Sea, magnificent sunrises and sunsets, the Caldera, an ancient volcano, the olden port and a primeval fortress.
10. Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo in Venice, Italy: As with many other hotels on this list, this hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers a unique Venetian flare. With only ten rooms, this hotel promises to be peaceful as well as unforgettable.
Photo of Residence Corti Grimani courtesy of sletoh.com
Top 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Europe
Jan 22nd
Although the first four are repeaters, as they made the Top 10 Best Luxury list of the world, they of course are the top hotels in Europe too! The list in its entirety is compromised of the most sumptuous, lush and extravagant hotels in all of Europe. Let’s take a peek.
1. The Ritz-Carlton Berlin in Berlin, Germany: It really seems as though traveler’s cannot get enough of the Ritz-Carlton in Berlin. Their superior service, prime location, soothing spa and elegant interior all add to the prestige of the most luxurious hotel in Europe.
2. Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort in Mykonos, Greece: As the Mykonos Grand’s website claims, the hotel tries to encapsulate the “essence of surrounding natural wonders.” The surreal scenery is truly breath taking and it is no wonder why the hotel tries to incorporate it into the grandiose of their structure.
3. Hotel le Palais in Prague, Czech Republic: Although very new to the hotel world, the building itself is a centuries old private palace. The hotel remains in close contact with its royal roots and treats every guest like a king or queen.
4. The Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel in London, England: In a sought after area of London sits the Chesterfield Mayfair. With a primte location, the hotel strives to continuously impress with its most high standards of excellence. And indeed it does. How else would it be #4 on the list?
5. Hotel Prisenhof in Brugge, Belgium: Located in a prestine Belgian town, the Prisenhof is features service with a sense of humor. Even the website boasts different languages such as Cockney, Elmer Fudd, Redneck and Pig Latin so that everyone, and we mean everyone, can feel right at home in the Prisenhof.
6. Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal in Budapest, Hungary: This opulent hotel has played host to many of the worlds most rich and most famous since its inception in 1896. Want to live like the hotel’s celebrated guests? All you have to do is check in because they don’t save their best services for movie stars only!
7. Rudding Park Hotel in Harrogate, England: Rudding Park, although nearly two centuries old, has only been on the hotel scene for about two decades. Never the less, this hotel, which has its own 18 hole golf course, has a great location between York and Leeds. However, the landscaped yards give it perfect countryside appeal, thus giving gets the best of both worlds.
8. Swissotel Berlin in Berlin Germany: As Berlin moves forward into modern times at a rapid pace, the Swissotel has not fallen far behind like many others. It keeps up with its contemporary art work and elegant, yet hip design scheme. It’s location also hails close to many fantastic attractions.
9. Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris in Paris, France: Do you really want to experience all of the love and romance that Paris has to offer? Look no further than this hotel. This fine specimen features truly magnificent views of the Eiffel Tower; it’s practically in their backyard! The City of Light simply does not get better than these views and a candlelit terrace dinner with your loved one.
10. Riverside Hotel in Prague, Czech Republic: Well within walking distance of many of the business and pleasure centers of Prague, the Riverside features views to die for in a more than charming Art Nouveau mixed with modern way. And the staff isn’t bad either!
If you have the means, we here at sletoh certainly suggest you stay.
Photos courtesy of sletoh.com
2008 Traveller’s Choice Awards: Top 10 Best Luxury Hotels in the World
Jan 17th
As promised, Sletoh.com is bringing you a breakdown of the hundreds of 2008 Traveler’s Choice Awards winners. We will be covering the best of the best in the World and Europe categories so that you can plan your next trip with peace of mind.
Today’s showcase is the Top 10 Best Luxury Hotels in the World. Although there were 100 in this category, we figured a rundown of the top 10 is a bit easier to take in!
1. Los Altos De Eros in Tamarindo, Costa Rico: It truly doesn’t take much to see why Los Altos ranks number one in luxury. With jungle and ocean all around Los Altos claims they are situated “high on a hill somewhere between heaven and earth.” Simply put – the location might be the most breathtaking in the world.
2. Layana Resort and Spa in Ko Lanta, Thailand: This self proclaimed “haven of pampered indulgence” features an exotic blend of blue skies and seas filled with an abundance of colorful life, locals included!
3. The Ritz-Carlton Berlin in Berlin Germany: In recent years Berlin has become well known for its business savvy and lately, the city has been trying to build momentum in tourism as well; building up attraction sites and reveling in its famous film festival. The Ritz-Carlton Berlin offers a soothing break for the hustle and bustle of an up and coming city with its gastronomical delights, sensational spa and elegant interior.
4. Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort in Mykonos, Greece: Mykonos Grand serves to “capture the essence of surrounding natural wonders.” In tones of tranquil blues and whites, the Grand certainly does emulate its extraordinary setting by the sparkling Aegean Sea as well as the charming hospitality of the local citizens. You will never feel as much like Zues and Athena as you will here.
5. Hotel le Palais in Prague, Czech Republic: Although it is a mere 6 years old in regards to the hotel world, the Hotel le Palais is steeped in rich history dating back to 1897 when it was originally built as a private palace. As you can guess, this lavish hotel sticks close by its royal roots and offers the gift of high luxury tied up with a modern bow.
6. Nisbet Plantation Beach Club in Newcastle Beach, Nevis: When most think Caribbean they think the most lucid of glistening aqua water, the whitest of sands and the most natural and easy of settings. Voila, welcome to Nisbet Plantation Beach Club. Dating back to its historic roots, this plantation was first built in 1778 for Admiral Horatio Nelson’s devoted wife Fanny Nisbet.. With these dreamy undertones still at play, it’s no wonder Nisbet was also named one of the top ten most romantic Caribbean resorts as well.
7. La Villa des Orangers in Marrakech, Morroco: Imagine yourself immersed in luxury. You can’t tell whether the historic surroundings are from today or 100 years ago but it is no matter. Dozens of wrought iron lanterns cast a warm glow as you eat a luscious meal on the patio, surrounded by nothing but exquisite Moroccan tile work and orange trees. Welcome to the timeless location known as La Villa des Orangers.
8. Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa in Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The striking beauty of the famed Jumeira strip in the Arabian Gulf is where Le Royal Meridien Dubai lies. The golden glow of it all – the beaches, the interior, the gardens – are fit for an Arabian King.
9. The Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel in London, England: In a highly regarded area of London sits the Chesterfield Mayfair. A short walk from many of London’s finest attractions, this hotel sets a precedence of excellence that is continually met by the hotel and its staff. What this means for traveler’s is that they can expect the utmost in superiority and attentive care when staying at the Chesterfield.
10. Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal in Budapest, Hungary: Corinthia Grand holds the promise of champagne dreams and caviar wishes like none other. It is has been practicing luxury since its opening in 1896, when the rich and famous, (Josephine Baker, Heinz Ruhmann and other celebrities) poured through its door during the Millennium Exhibition. And it is held onto those superior standards ever since.
Look out for the next category, the Top 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Europe, coming soon!
Photos courtesy of Sletoh.com and Wikimedia.org
Tripadvisor’s 2008 Traveler’s Choice Awards
Jan 17th
According to Tripadvisor, “the Travelers’ Choice awards, the only honors representing the unbiased opinions of millions of travelers like you, are among the most coveted awards in the hotel industry.” What better way to pick your next holiday locale than to browse the winners and see destinations everyday people covet and what hotels and locations they would never return to again; a hassle free way to get a great selection for your next trip!
In paying homage to the best hotels on the planet, as decided not by a panel but rather by ordiniary traveler’s opinions, “winners were determined by a combination of the highest traveler ratings and the Trip Advisor Popularity Index, a measurement of overall traveler satisfaction.” Simply put, these are the best hotels as voted for the people by the people.
The 2008 categories included:
Best Luxury Hotels
Best Hidden Gems
Best Inns & B&Bs
Best Bargains
Best Hotels for Families
Best Hotels for Romance
Best Hotel Pools
Best Hotel Service
Best All-inclusive Hotels
Best Hotel Brand
Please check back each day as Sletoh.com will be covering a new top 10 for each categories (in regards to the “World” and “Europe”) daily.
Photo of winner Ritz Carlton, Berlin courtesy of Sletoh.com.
Top 10 Florence Hotels
Jan 15th
Florence, Italy is known for its old-world appeal, profound architecture, famous residents, meaty meals, unique culture and Tuscan countryside. Tourists come here to see the stunning views of the city from antique buildings, marvel over the famous El Duomo, scope out the many works that the Florentine merchant Medici family built the city up with, spot sites where the famous artist Michaelangelo roamed and to learn about the ancient history of the city that dates all the way back to 59BC. Among all of this, Florence is known for its fantastic hotels and near perfect hospitality. Let’s take a peek into Florence frequenter’s top 10 favorite hotels.
Hotel Davanzati
This hotel tops the list as a favorite among travelers. Located in a building that dates back to the 1400s, a complete and accurate renovation has seen an influx of many locals and tourists alike. Traditional Tuscan furnishings, many antique originals, mixed with modern amenities allow guests to feel as though they are really living in 15th century Florence.
Residence Michelangiolo
When many think of Florence, they think of beautiful villas. This one dates back to 1917. Although it has been completely remodeled, it still allows guests to come back to the enchantment of early 20th century Florence, in a more than tranquil setting.
Peace of mind and old world elegance is what you’ll find at Hotel David. Located on a mature tree-lined street, this 1700 mansion has been revived as a quiet yet convenient hotel location.
If you easily become home sick and want a home away from home feel to your hotel, the Casci should be your pick. This tiny family managed hotel is situated within an ancient palace, just steps from many fantastic attractions so that you can slip back to your cozy room at a moments notice.
Grand Hotel Florence
There is nothing like the innate and historic architecture of an ancient city like Florence and the Grand Hotel Florence is no different. Filled with canal views, hand painted frescoes, giant wrought iron chandeliers and stunning glass roofs, a stay at this hotel is like taking a step back in time.
This marvelous hotel is completely immersed in the culture of the city. Many rooms feature views of the infamous architectural elements of Brunelleschi’s Duomo and Giotto’s Bell Tower. It is steps from other artistic objects like Michaelangelo’s David.
JK Place Hotel
Just a stones throw from a train station that will whisk you around the city, the JK Place Hotel is a diamond in the rough. Many rooms feature balconies with sweeping views that can be closed off with luxe curtains for a romantic interlude out of doors.
The elegant stylings and plush furnishings make the Relais Santa Croce a sumptuous stay for anyone visiting Florence. The history, design, quality and knowledge behind the hotel only add to this sophisticated sanctuary.
Hotel Il Bargellino
This family owned and operated hotel is nestled in the heart of Florence and provides a warm atmosphere and close proximities to many historic hubs; perfect for a very personal stay.
This hotel manages to mix the old traditions of a 17th century Florentine building with new, stylish renovations. The mixture of frescoes and modern comforts are the perfect accompaniments for an appealing stay in this classic city.
These hotels were purely based on visitor reviews via TripAdvisor so they are tried and true, perfect for your next visit to the capitol of the Tuscan countryside.
Photos courtesy of Sletoh.com.
Hotel Report Awards 2008
Jan 14th
Hotel Report Awards 2008 The Hotel Report is kicking off 2008 with its introduction to the Hotel Report Awards – the only awards for the industry as voted by the industry. Winners will be announced on February 21. Who are the gracious hosts for such an innovative hotel event? London’s very own Honourable Artillery Company (HAC), the home of Britain’s oldest army regiment.
The categories of the Hotel Report Awards envelop the best of the best in the hotel world today. They are as follows: Rising Star, Hotel Report Individual of the Year, Deal of the Year, Single Asset Deal of the Year, Emerging Deal of the Year, Advisor of the Year, Innovator of the Year, Investor of the Year and Innovation in Ethics.
Winners will simply be based upon those with the most votes. Anyone can vote at Hotel Report Awards and Sletoh.com will be sure to bring you the winning hotels as soon as they are announced in February.
Photo of the HAC’s Cap Badge courtesy of Wikimedia.org
Europe’s New School Destinations 2008
Jan 11th
Although beautiful and highly entertaining, many of Europe’s most popular cities can get tiring after awhile; the traffic jams, thousands upon thousands roaming the streets, long lines at attractions – it can really cramp a traveler’s style. Conversely, several virtually unknown European destinations – although not new in the world – have been enjoying a new found popularity amongst the jet-set. So rather than visiting your old school favorite this year, try something new because these “hush-hush” spots won’t be quiet for long!
Basilicata, Southern Italy
Ever since Mel Gibson’s Passion of the Christ brought this arid, desertscape to light, it has quickly become a fast growning tourist destination. And not just because of the movie (although UNESCO World Heritage Site has preserved itself as a primary shooting location) but rather because of its exclusive features such as the ancient carvings and caves and the charming old world towns that are nearby, like Matera and San Chirico. Many hotels offer a taste of the ancient life such as the cave-like Locanda Di San Martino or the historic Albergo Del Sedile, centered in the heart of Matera.
Bologna, Italy
Bologna, once known simply as a stop over to more well known Italian cities, has recently had its own taste of stardom. Its cuisine is delectable and quite possibly some of the best Italian food on the planet. And it’s no wonder why since this region invented the likes of Parmigianino cheese and balsamic vinegar; staples in nearly everyone’s pantry. Bologna is filled with food stalls as well as topnotch eateries so that guests can go as casual or as formal as they like. It also features some great sites to work off those extra calories, such as two leaning towers. An added bonus: lower pricetags and fewer tourists than say Pisa or Florence. Bologna’s hotels are no exception. They offer great luxury for a lower cost than the more bustling Italian cities. Try Al Cappello Rosso Hotel or the lively Mercure Bologna Centro on for size.
Liverpool, England
The European Union, much to many a travel gurus surprise, selected Liverpool as the Capital of Culture for 2008. However, Liverpool has cleaned up its once rather rough and tough act by shining up with many new cultural attractions, including its renovated waterfront, and lining up fantastic events, such as a concert by Sir Paul McCartney himself. Speaking of, many Beatles lovers will be happy to find a Beatles Story attraction as well as the childhood homes of Paul McCartney and John Lennon in the area. By giving itself an enriching makeover, Liverpool is ready to take on the world – watch out London! Liverpool also offers many hotels that fit in perfectly with the new renovations, such as Thistle Liverpool or the Marriot City Centre.
Munich, Germany
Munich has nearly always been outshined by Berlin, however, the city’s big 850th birthday bash this year should bring in quite the crowd! Scan the city by day to seek out medieval, gothic and baroque touches such as Alter Hof and Nymphenburg Palace. The city is certainly looking to welcoming many tourists in years to come as it is renovating as well as opening many new attractions, such as the thoroughly modernized BMW museum. Munich offers some very novel hotels, to go along with their recent launch into the future, like the Hilton Munich City. Or visitors can try the Maximilian Munich for a more peaceful, old world feel amongst the bustling Bavarian cityscape.
Photos courtesy of Sletoh.com
Now That’s Green Living!
Jan 10th
All of the demand in recent years to live ‘green’ has put a strain on many industries to provide for this new breed of customer and lifestyle and the hotel industry is no exception. Although there have been plenty of attempts, good and bad, at providing for this new set, none of done it quite so well thus far as the Travelodge.
The British hotel chain is currently amidst building the first recyclable hotel. Yes, you read correctly – a recyclable hotel!
What exactly is this innovative design constructed of? Why container-like crates prefabricated in China of course. This novel building can be constructed as easily as a child’s set of blocks. The crates are stacked one on top of another, bolted together and voila, a new hotel is formed. It can also be taken apart just as easily, which is part of the appeal according to Travelodge.
“It could facilitate the creation of hotels on a temporary basis at times of peak demand in certain locations — such as festivals or sporting events. A temporary structure to fill such a need would differ to the design of a permanent hotel but it could be built in as little as 12 weeks and removed quickly at the end of the event when the need is gone,” says Paul Harvey, the firm’s property and development director.
The Travelodge will also save a few bucks as the modules can be built 25% faster and 10% cheaper than other building materials. With this fast-paced phenomenon in their hands, Travelodge can quite possibly meet their goals to become the largest hotelier in London by the 2012 Olympics. And when the Olympics are over, they can simply deconstruct and store the unneeded hotels.
Curious to see what one of these new fangled innovations looks like close up? Look for the first of many that is to be opened in June, in the Uxbridge section of London.
Currently Travelodge operates several hotels in London including London Islington, London City Road, London Docklands, London City Airport, Park Royal Hotel, London Farringdon and London Battesea.
Photo courtesy of Sletoh.com
The True Meaning of Christmas
Jan 4th
The hotel chain Travelodge recently announced that between Christmas Eve and the Twelfth Night (January 5) married couples by the names of Mary and Joseph can have a free stay at Travelodge’s throughout Britain, Ireland and Spain… as long as they provide the proof.
Although the humble stable of the Nativity story is a far cry from the Travelodge’s comfortable accommodations, the hotel chain wants the true spirit of the Christmas story to resonate during the season.
“The phrase ‘no room at the inn’ is something that resonates with us in the hotel business,” stated Travelodge operations director Jason Cotta this December. “Therefore this year we have decided to evoke the true spirit of Christmas and invite Mary and Joseph couples as our guests.”
Travelodge will give away a free nights stay to any couple named Mary and Joseph as long as they provide proof if their identity, marriage and register their names at a specified email address.
Giving is the true meaning of Christmas and Travelodge is working hard to bring that old world Christmas spirit back.
Photo of Travelodge in Ashford, England courtesy of Sletoh.com
