Hotel Dieu Marseille 

Hotel-Dieu Marseille has to be one of the finest luxury hotels in the world.

Though I have been to Marseille many times in my life, it was not until the newly refurbished hotel Dieu was featured in the Wine Spectator magazine ,,,

… in addition to the then new Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM) – that I decided to make it a destination on its own.

Hotel Dieu Marseille Location

The InterContinental Marseilles Hotel-Dieu is situated atop the Panier in the oldest part of Marseille.

You will find it within easy walking distance to all the places you want to visit, including the best museums and restaurants inside the city.

By far, it is the city’s most luxurious hotels.

You will immediately see this in the friendly, professional attitude of the staff.

You will also see it in the lavish attention paid to the hotel’s polished interior design and architecture in the lobby, dining room, as well as rooms and suites.

Many of the rooms and suites, as well as almost all public rooms, face the landmark Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica.

And there is a 18^th century sense of Grandeur here, a Belle Epoch ambiance, even though there are some very clean, modern touches to the hotel.

Hotel Dieu Marseille Rooms and Suites

I’ve visited many times since it’s opening in 2013, mostly en route to St. Tropez.

Each time, I’ve stayed in a Grand Suite or Junior suite facing the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica.

Other views include the Vieux Port or historic heart of the city.

Hotel Dieu Marseille InterContinental Touch

The InterContinental is an incredible hotel brand.

What I like best about the hotel brand is that as a company, there is a sense of “white glove” service that filters through the top executives to the staff.

Attention is paid to very small details.

Hotel Dieu Marseille: Creating Drama and Excitement

As a somewhat jaded luxury traveler, it takes a bit to get me really excited about a room or suite.

Yet there is so much drama built into the experience of the Hotel Dieu it’s difficult to pinpoint where it all begins.

I suppose it begins when making the reservation, as it already sets in motion a sense of excitement based on past visits.

Then that drama continues to build until the car smoothly ascends upward toward the curved driveway leading to what looks like a magnificent white palace.

Once you enter the large, air-conditioned lobby of the Hotel Dieu with its enormously high ceilings and aura of glamour, you feel as if you have finally arrived.

Hotel Dieu Marseille: Keys to the Suite

Opening the door to my suite is always exciting.

Though one can say I am a bit jaded, I always feel the exhilaration of a five year old the first time I see the expansive patio that overlooks the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica

It is a party-sized patio.

Even though it is only the two of us, it is such a fun place to order drinks and Hotel Dieu room service and just admire that incredible view.\

Hotel Dieu Marseille Bath

If you are a regular reader of my luxury report articles and posts, you will already know that I mostly book rooms for the bathrooms.

The Hotel Dieu has one of my favorite bathrooms in Europe.

Though I’ve only been to a handful of different rooms over the years, in each bath, I’ve had one of the old-fashioned looking baths positioned in the middle of the bathroom.

It is a deep, modern tub, quick to fill.

And each bath has a bath tray were you can put soap, a bath sponge, and even a glass of Champagne.

The shower and other areas have their own compartment.

Hotel Dieu Marseille Bed and Suite

Sometimes I’ve had a full suite, and sometimes a junior suite.

The difference is the size of the room, as well as the size of the patio if that is your request.

Of course, I prefer the full suite with its large room.

The bed of each room I’ve experienced over the years has been incredibly comfortable.

Hotel Dieu Marseille Scene

I love dressing up for European vacations, and am pleased to see that for the most part, most guests at the Hotel Dieu feel the same way.

If you were to dress up at any hotel, this one would be it.

Think of some classic James Bond film, especially one of the old ones from the 1960s where everyone was totally decked out.

Hotel Dieu Marseille: Hotspot for Fashion Influencers?

While in the lobby, it was hard not to notice one very attractive young woman with a three year old son.

Like many guests, she was very beautifully dressed.

It seemed apparent that she found the exquisite backdrop of the Hotel Dieu the perfect background for her selfies …

… as she snapped dozens of pictures of herself against the different dramatic mirrors, paintings, and sculptures of the hotel’s interior rooms.

Hotel Dieu Marseille Concierge Team

Audrey Berr has been the Chef Concierge Clefs d’Or at the InterContinental Marseille for as long as I’ve been visiting.

On the phone before one visit I asked her about the restaurant I liked during my last trip …

… the one with all the old books on the wall.

As if by magic, she quickly knew the exact restaurant I meant, and the reservation was made.

I have plans in the future to ask her about renting a boat for the day, with a captain, to see Marseille from the sea.

Or maybe ask her about the best way to visit the Calanques, a series of rocky cliffs and bays between the city of Marseille and the town of Cassis in the south of France.

These are inlets that have been formed in the limestone cliffs, leaving a serious of tiny bays.  In the books and magazines, these cliffs look beautiful. Hikers enjoy exploring them.

Yet viewing them from a yacht – preferably with a glass of bubbly – is probably a more comfortable way to see them.

Hotel Dieu Marseille Breakfast

Because I love my patio overlooking the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica, I usually like to have a room service breakfast.

But a few times in the past year, I did have breakfast served at Les Fenetres at the Hotel Dieu

It is a fantastic buffet that includes some of the most delicious, and freshest, fruit you will ever try.

As well as the usual 5 star buffet items that include yogurt, of a variety of different breads (Marseille is famous for bread), cheeses …

… and of course, made-to-order dishes like omelets, waffles, and more.

Hotel Dieu Marseille View at Breakfast

Beyond the freshness of the food, the thing I like best about breakfast at Hotel Dieu is the incredible view from the terrace.

Yes, you will see Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica and also other parts of the city.

Most tables are outdoors (the weather in Marseille is usually perfect) and it is just one of the most lovely spots in the world to have breakfast or brunch.

Hotel Dieu Marseille Dinner Options

One day, I will have dinner at the hotel and tell you all about it (be sure to sign up for my newsletter so you’ll be the first to hear).

Chefs can change, but as of my latest visit in 2019 the chef is Lionel Levy.

Mr. Levy is seen as the leader of the “new Mediterranean cuisine.”

This is a term that does not need too much translation.

This is because for centuries, if not thousands of years, Marseille has been recognized for the perfect freshness of its produce.

Also, Mr. Levy trained under acclaimed chefs such as Eric Frechon and Alain Ducasse.

Mr. Levy is in charge of the Hotel Dieu’s three restaurants.

Hotel Dieu Alcyone: The Gastronomic Restaurant

The name of this restaurant is Alcyone.  It earned its first Michelin star in 2014. For my next visit, probably next July or August, I will make a note to check it out and report back.

Hotel Dieu Les Fenetres

The name of this restaurant is taken from a type of typical Marseille building known as “3 Fenetres” (three windows).

It is a Mediterranean restaurant where Mr. Levy proudly shows off one of his signature dishes, called the “milk shake de bouillabaisse.”

Hotel Dieu Le Capian

The name of this bar gets its name from the bow of a small fishing boat with rounded contours and bright colors.

Here you can find one of the many mouthwatering cocktails like the one below.

You can also enjoy these cocktails while sitting on the terrace overlooking the Vieux-Port.

Hotel Dieu Marseille Spa

The Marseille Spa by Clarins is gorgeous.

The décor is inspired by traditional Provencal fountains.

It is a perfect place to relax for a massage.

You can really get into the traditional Marseille grove here with the hammam treatments available (a reference, perhaps, to Marseille’s Phoenician ancestry).

Swimmers will love the private pool.

And everyone who loves to relax will adore the massages, saunas, and more.

Hotel Dieu Marseille Final Thoughts

I love this hotel and always look forward to my visits each year. July and August are so hot in Marseille, so after a sticky drive from the airport it is a delicious pleasure to enter the lovely air-conditioned space of this beautiful hotel and know that relaxation and good times will only be a few moments away.

√ Marseille Logistics

Distance from the Marseilles Airport

The Hotel Dieu is located about a half an hour from the Marseille airport by taxi.

Most taxis are located at the stand at Terminal 1, and it can be a long walk – especially in the hot sun – if your plane lands at Terminal 2.

For this reason, you might ask the concierge about the ability to be picked up by a private car or taxi so you can be met when you exit baggage claim.

Distance from St. Tropez

I am usually either on my way to visit St. Tropez, or just leaving St. Tropez, when I visit the Hotel Dieu.

Depending on traffic, it is a pleasant drive of 2.5 hours.

Typically, I ask the concierge at the Hotel Dieu to arrange car service for me.

Most taxis do take credit cards.

What to Wear at the Hotel Dieu

I’ve spent many summers in various regions of the Cote d’Azur.

Most visitors to the Hotel Dieu, at least in my view, tend to dress with a bit more attention to detail than other areas in the South of France.

This can be due to the fact that there are many international visitors to the Hotel Dieu …

… at least, as evidenced by the many different languages spoken in the lobby.

Men will do well to bring a sports jacket, a few white shirts, and formal slacks for the evening.

Ladies do tend to dress up a bit, especially in the evening.

… and certainly if there is a Michelin rated dinner involved.

Hotel Dieu Marseille Concierge Tip

As a general tip, you might reach out to the concierge team with a phone call or an email a few weeks before your trip.

This is especially true if it will be your first visit to Marseille, and you are not sure what to see or do.

Here is a list of my favorite things to do in Marseille

Hotel Dieu Marseille Information.

InterContinental Marseille Hôtel-Dieu

1, place Daviel – 13002 Marseille

Réservations : Tél. : 04 13 42 42 30 –  marseille@ihg.com

marseille.intercontinental.com

The post Hotel Dieu Marseille  appeared first on The Luxury Report.

Hotel Urban Madrid is one of the most dynamic cities in the world.

It’s a great destination for a luxurious weekend getaway from other cities in Europe…

… and it’s a great destination to spend even longer periods of time visiting the museums and the delicious gourmet restaurants of this glittering international city.

As a fan of boutique luxury hotels – as well as gastronomy – I was very quick to book my stay at the Hotel Urban, a 5-star “Grand Luxe” Hotel in Madrid’s city center.

Though Hotel Urban is perfect for that romantic weekend, on this particular trip I was visiting as a solo female traveler.

I wanted a luxury hotel within walking distance of the Prado, as well a hotel with a restaurant known for its gastronomy.

The Hotel Urban has it all.

Madrid’s “Golden Triangle”

Just twenty minutes by taxi from the Madrid airport, the Hotel Urban is located in Madrid’s Golden Triangle.

This is where culture (the museums, the gastronomy) meets commerce.

Stepping out of the taxi, you feel relaxed as soon as you walk into this very elegant hotel.

First, the space is incredibly sophisticated, with interesting artwork everywhere.

Beyond the sheer luxury of the Hotel Urban Madrid itself, you are located in the cultural and commercial center of Madrid.

And within walking distance to nearly everything.

The Hotel Urban Madrid

The Hotel Urban Madrid has 96 designer rooms and suites.

It is a member of the Derby collection, which has hotels In Madrid, Barcelona, London and Paris.

Though it was the first time I heard of this hotel brand, I was very pleasantly surprised by the very professional, friendly staff and the hotel itself.

The décor is Art Deco.

I asked to see all the areas of the hotel on a tour, and discovered that the owner collects art from Papua New Guinea.

You will see this museum on the ground floor, and various works of art on the different floors as well.

You can see it right from your computer and device by clicking the virtual tour with this link.

Hotel Urban Rooftop Pool

The hotel has a lovely rooftop pool, as well as a rooftop bar and terrace which is popular in summer.

It is called El Cielo del Urban.

You will also find a small but well equipped gym.

Hotel Urban Restaurant CEBO

Ok.

I will admit it.

It was the glowing reviews of the Restaurant Cebo that led me to this luxurious hotel.

The Michelin-rated restaurant is run by head chef Aurelio Morale.

Then a found out about the hotel’s other restaurant, Glass Mar.

This is a creation of Angel Leon.

I decided to book Glass Mar because it seemed like a very fun, upbeat restaurant where I could try different wines by the glass and order a la carte.

Though if I was at Hotel Urban for a romantic weekend, of course I would choose CEBO!

Hotel Urban Suite

If you are a fan of my luxury report, you already know that the first thing I look for in a luxury suite is the “wow factor” of the bathroom.

I was really excited when I entered the Hotel Urban Suite and saw this bathroom, which is one of the most special baths I’ve ever seen.

Drama in the Bath

When I was shown to my room, the Hotel Urban front desk person made a point of walking in and opening the “drapes” to the bathroom.

It was as if I was watching the curtains open at a Broadway show.

There are two very attractive, modern looking sinks (with a romantic red rose between them) and an enormous bathtub with water jets, like a jacuzzi.

A separate glass enclosed rain shower is in this main room.

Open the mirrored doors and you will see a separate area with a commode and bidet.

Perfect!

The Hotel Urban Bed

The bed was large and very comfortable, with a duvet and plump enormous pillows.

I usually ask for lots of extra pillows when I visit a hotel.

Yet there was no need, for there were pillows to spare.

Hotel Urban Glass Mar Experience

I will visit CEBO restaurant next visit.

This visit, Glass Mar was perfect for my Solo Woman Traveler experience.

I was able to snag a great corner table where I could see everyone in the room …

…. What they were wearing (Madrid is very fashionable) and even more important, what exotic cuisine they were eating.

You see, at Glass Mar the presentation is everything.

The Glass Mar Waiters

This is a gastronomic, and somewhat eclectic menu.

So it needs a translation by an English speaking, food-centric waiter who can explain it.

The dishes are complex, delicious, and are marked by playful presentations.

For example, the first dish I ordered was urchin, and it arrived in an attractive vapor of smoke.

Beautiful, and delicious.

The next dish was lobster. It was scrumptious as well.

As a wine expert, I was pleased to see that the wines by the glass represented an enormous selection of the classic wines of Spain and elsewhere.

Though I usually prefer to order wine by the bottle, I indulged in the temptation to try the different wines by the glass, including a sherry.

Final Thoughts

Madrid is just a few hours away from most European cities, so if I lived in Europe I would fly in every few weeks just to bask in the luxury of this hotel and see all the cultural activities Madrid has to offer.

I met quite a few people on my short trip to Madrid, and can’t say enough about how nice everyone is.

I am excited to return!

The post Hotel Urban Madrid appeared first on The Luxury Report.

Le Negresco Luxury Hotel Review

In many ways, the Belle Epoque architecture of Le Negresco Hotel in Nice, France  sets the tone for your luxury adventure in the Cote d’Azur.

This monument to Old World luxury shines its face on the sunny Promenade des Anglais facing the Mediterranean sea.

Le Negresco luxury hotel dates from 1912.

More than a century ago.

Yet magically, when you are here, you can close your eyes and easily imagine the “scene” a century earlier …

…an era seeing ladies strolling along the Promenade des Anglais dressed in beautiful white dresses and dainty white parasols

Negresco Luxury Hotel Today

The Negresco is an ongoing part of my life.

Starting in University, when we’d travel to Nice and walk by this amazing hotel.

Then, when I was a student at the Institute de Francais in nearby Villefranche-Sur-Mer, I’d walk by the Negresco several times a week.

Beyond the Negresco luxury hotel’s impressive façade, I would take note of the colorfully dressed doormen.

Instead of the customary white uniform with gold braid – and white gloves – of many luxury hotels, the Negresco doormen are attired in the manner of the household staff of 18th-century elite bourgeois households.

This includes red-plumed hats.

… Just those uniforms creates a sense of wonder ….

If a hotel puts this much effort and expense into dressing their doormen with all the details of a princess attending a royal ball, what would the luxury hotel experience be like???

Whirlwind Tour of the French Riviera

Happily, a few weeks ago I booked a room at Le Negresco on my way back to New York after a whirlwind luxury tour of the French Riviera.

Finally, all those years of wondering what the experience would be like were worth the wait!

Welcome to my Adventure!

Le Negresco luxury hotel is nicely located between Cannes and Monaco.

Distances are so close in the Cote d’Azur you can easily reside at Le Negresco and see Cannes and Monaco in a day trip.

The hotel itself overlooks the Promenade des Anglais.

This is the “promenade” (or sidewalk) adjacent to the beaches of Nice.

History of Negresco Luxury Hotel

The hotel was constructed in 1912 by Henri Negresco.

Mr. Negresco had grown up in a hotelier family, and worked in Paris.

Apparently Mr. Negresco had an eye for the precise details that luxury travelers expected in a grand hotel.

This includes “details” such as a spectacular Baccarat 16,309-crystal chandelier in the Negresco’s Royal Lounge.

The Era of Madame Jeanne Augier

In 1957, the hotel was purchased by the Augier family.

Madame Augier reinvigorated the hotel with luxurious decorations and furnishings.

This included an outstanding art collection and rooms with mink bedspreads.

Though I never met her, from what I hear Madame Augier was found of celebrities, artists, and musicians  and encouraged their visits.

Every floor of this grand hotel features multiple works of art, including painting, sculpture, and even the furniture itself.

Some of the furniture is so striking you’d expect to find it at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, with a gold rope and a “do not sit here” sign on top of it.

My Arrival at Le Negresco

After the long trip two hour trip from St. Tropez, I was really looking forward to some luxury hotel relaxation.

And of course, I was excited to see the hotel from an insider’s view!

Our driver parked in front of the hotel.

Then those famous, colorfully dressed doormen were quick to take our luggage into the hotel.

The receptionist was quick and efficient.

Surprisingly, she also personally escorted us to our room.

This is quite a change.

Even in some of the major luxury hotel brands, you are given the keys and that’s the end …

… or you are dispatched to a bellman.

The Anticipation of the Le Negresco Room

The Negresco luxury hotel is a very unique.

As you walk to the “elevator” you are entranced by the Rotunda before you, filled with numerous paintings and works of art.

Your first instinct is to just go explore, but you are en route to your room so you must follow the order.

First, you step into the antique elevator …

…once we exit the elevator and sink our shoes into the thick carpet, we are escorted to our room.

As we requested, it faces the azure Mediterranean sea.

… and as I anticipated, it is beautifully furnished.

For example, there is a “niche” near the full sized floor to ceiling window where the writing desk is located.

By this word, I mean a recessed space that is not big enough to be a room, just a small space where one can sit and write letters or plug in a lap top.

The view is spectacular!

The windows open to the sea.

It is not a terrace or patio, but it is possible to take a single step outside and take in the salty sea air.

After this luxurious experience, I made my way to check out the bed.

It is a single room, not a suite, yet it is large enough for two people.

The bed looks like it is fun to sleep in!

First off, it is so high off the floor I have to jump a bit to lay on top.

Le Negresco: Rubenesque Women

Then, when I lay down, I am greeted by the welcome site of cupids and rather Rubenesque women on the fabric of the old-fashioned canopy above me.

I am a woman who has too many iphones, ipads, Android devices, and other electronic media for her own good.

So I was VERY pleased to see that there are places to plug in just above the nightstand.

And there is also another “niche” carved into the wall, this one containing a minibar, the safe, etc.

Le Negresco Bathroom

Like you, perhaps, the bathroom is the most important element of a luxurious hotel stay.

Of prime importance is the bathtub.

The Negresco luxury bath of our room was large, and it filled very quickly.

This is an important quality after a long, dusty journey.

…. And the shower!

A shower is one thing.

Yet a shower “experience” is another.

The area for the shower was deep, and probably big enough for two (or three) though I didn’t try this.

It had an overhead rain shower head, and also a hand shower.

Le Negresco Rooms and Suites

There are only 100 rooms and 25 suites in this luxury hotel, a National Historic Monument.

Each is furnished with period furniture inspired by remarkable periods of French art.

And the art on every floor is unique as well.

Tina Turner and Louis Armstrong – well, at least their portraits, grace the walls on our floor.

Along with some fabulous African art sculpture.

New rooms are being continuously resigned, following the concept of Madame Augier.

For example, one of the more innovative new arrivals is the “Street Art” room with its wall hangings designed by Pierre Fray.

I am happy to say that my room must have been the new room called “The Medicis,” decked out in Renaissance style.

Le Negresco Bars and Restaurants

The Chantecler is the Negresco’s luxury two-star Michelin restaurant, known for its “old-school” table service and 18th century décor …

… yet with a focus on the lighter style of cuisine and focus on regional products that is so fashionable today.

The Negresco Bar

This bar has authentic walnut woodwork, as well as tapestry circa 1683.

With all this lavish attention to detail, you can just imagine that the people I saw walking into the bar and the restaurant were quite “decked out” as befits the refined ambiance.

Think ultra-high heels, and chic designer dresses …

… plus those adorable miniaudiere a women’s fashion accessory, generally considered a jewelry piece.

They are intended to substitute for an evening bag.

Typically, though, only a lipstick … and some emergency cash or a credit card, will fit.

Yet if you have one (I have a collection) the Negresco luxury hotel is the perfect place to wear it.

Breakfast in Le Negresco La Rotonde Brasserie and Bar

La Rotonde is the expression of the French Riviera.

Very chic and relaxed, it is the epitome of “old style” glamour.

Depending on your room type, breakfast may be included.

…. And it is such an extraordinary luxury experience you would not want to miss this!

The breakfast is buffet-style.

In terms of seating, you have your choice between the air conditioned main room …

… and the beautiful outdoor area that faces the Promenade des Anglais and the Mediterranean sea.

As you enter, you are greeted by the receptionist and brought to your table.

Then you have your choice of a beverage and it is brought to your table.

The Le Negresco Buffet Offerings

At the buffet you will find fresh fruit, a variety of breads, cereal, cheese.

Almost any item you could wish for.

Protein fanatics will also find hard boiled eggs, as well as a station where you can boil eggs yourself to your liking.

If you desire more, other hot breakfast items such as omelets are available on a separate menu.

Le Negresco Activities

The concierge will be happy to provide options for other activities.

On this particular visit, after breakfast we just took advantage of the proximity to the Promenade to take a seat in the sunshine and watch everyone having fun on this beautiful stretch of beach.

Much of our attention was focused on the para gliding on the beach, just a few feet from where we were sitting.

Le Negresco: On the Beach

On the beach, families, friends, and others set up their towels on the pebbles.

Important to know there is no sand on these beaches. Yet the pebbles are small, not too hard, and you can get used to it

Final Thoughts On Le Negresco

When you visit Nice, you will not want to miss this luxury hotel experience.

It is not just a luxury hotel.

And it’s not even “just an experience.”
Le Negr

When you book a room here, you are vicariously living a hundred years of history.

You are re-living the initial concept of Mr. Negresco, who launched this hotel at the height of the Belle Epoque.

…You are living the reincarnation of the Negresco, through the eyes of Madame Jeanne Augier who made the renovation and decoration of the hotel her life’s passion.

… and there is a bit of Eloise – the fictional little girl who grew up in Manhattan’s Pierre Hotel here as well.

I remember coming home from an evening on the town in Nice, and not wanting to go to my room …

… I just wanted to walk around “the museum” that is the luxury Negresco’s airy, round-shaped interior and just inhale the stories of all the places the ancient furniture has been.

Some other Favorite Hotels …

Hotel Grand Timeo in Taormina Sicily

Review: Belmond Grand Timeo

The post Le Negresco Luxury Hotel Review appeared first on The Luxury Report.

Belmond Grand Timeo Hotel Review Taormina

If you love luxury, you must know and adore the chic chain of Belmond hotels.

They are a very well-managed luxury hotel group with properties in the most glamorous and historic areas of the world.

For the last several years, they have been quietly acquiring some of my favorite long-time boutique hotels.

Here is an example.

In the past, I have been a summer regular at the gorgeous La Residencia hotel in the Balearic Island of Mallorca.

This goes back to the days when it was still a very small boutique hotel.

At the time it was owned by Sir Richard Branson of Virgin Airlines fame.

In fact, the old La Residencia was so intimate I actually had the opportunity to play ping pong with Sir Richard by the lovely pool.

Then several years back I was a bit surprised to read exciting news of the La Residencia in Mallorca.

It had been bought and renovated into a grand luxury estate by the Belmond Ltd.

I was quick to check out various reviews of the Belmond La Residencia.

The experiences were quite positive, so I booked a week’s stay.

Renovation at the Belmond La Residencia

Upon arrival, it was clear that the La Residencia hotel had been completely renovated by the Belmond luxury hotel group.

Though La Residencia now had more rooms and pools, it still retained its boutique, personal approach in terms of guest relations.

This was my first experience with the Belmond.

Instinctively I knew to discover exciting new Belmond locations to visit.

Luxury Belmond Taormino: The Grand Timeo

Taormina, a coastal city in Sicily, is one of the world’s most fashionable resorts.

This is as true today, as it was thousands of years ago.

At that time, the aristocracy from neighboring areas made it their summer resort.

In fact, in ancient days Taormina was so chic could be considered the St. Tropez of its day.

The Belmond Grand Timeo is the most luxurious hotel in the area.

The Greek Theater

The Greeks, who first settled the area, built the Greek theater.

It is located next door to the Belmond Grand Timeo Hotel.

The Greek Theater is still used today for film festivals and opera performances.

When the Romans entered Taormina, they improved upon the Greek Theater.

They also created the shopping streets that are lined with jewelry shops today.

Ancient Days

In ancient days, fashionable people from nearby regions would travel to Taormina to relax, take in the sun, enjoy fabulous cuisine, and of course … see and be seen.

Just as now.

Today the vibe in Taormina is chic and elegant, attracting the rich and famous from the Italian fashion world and beyond.

The Belmond Luxury Promise

Remembering my exceptional experience at the Belmond La Residencia in Mallorca, it was easy to book my visit to the Belmond Grand Timeo.

Yes, there were some other luxury resort hotels to choose from.

Yet by now I knew the Belmond was a trusted brand.

And I also knew myself.

From reviews of the Belmond Grand Timeo – and more from my experiences at the Belmond La Residencia – I knew I could experience the best of what Taormina had to offer.

Yet at the same time, I knew I could escape the crowds into my own private luxury world.

I knew that on very hot sunny days, floods of day-tripping tourists, and crowds would quickly send me in search of a hotel sanctuary.

A sanctuary where I could view lovely Mount Etna from the quiet of my hotel terrace.

Or the hotel pool.

And just relax.

So without even needing to think more about it, I booked a room at the Belmond Grand Timeo.

History of the Belmond Grand Timeo

The Belmond Grand Timeo had its origins in 1863.

I am a UCLA English major who specialized in literature of the 18th and 19th century.

So I already knew the leading writers – and artists – of the day flocked to Taormina for its beauty.

And of course, that was the era of the “Grand Tour.”

The Grand Tour was a luxurious trip across the European continent.

It usually taken by aristocratic newlyweds and people graduating university.

Just about anyone who could afford it.

Many of the leading writers and artists of their day actually stayed in the exact spot that would in time become the Grand Timeo Hotel.

Don Francesco La Floresta: The House Where the Grand Timeo Hotel Began

Don Francesco La Floresta lived in Taormina in the 17th century.

He had a lovely house near the Greek Theater.

Don Francesco welcomed artists to his home.

In 1863, the 20 year old Prussian born Otto Geleng visited Taormina to paint watercolors.

Mr. Geleng took a room in a private house belonging to Don Francesco La Floresta.

This is now the site where the Grand Timeo stands.

These watercolors were displayed in art galleries in Paris and Berlin.

The beauty reflected in these watercolors resulting in many artists visiting Taormina.

These  stayed at the house Don Francisco, which he called “Timeo.”

In 1883 Don Francisco enlarged the Timeo.

Later his son added 60 new rooms between 1896 and 1906.

Guests during that time included emperors, kings, and grand dukes of European courts.

They all wanted to spend the winter in a warm climate.

In 1896, rulers such as Kaiser Wilheim II of Germany would rent out the entire hotel for the month for his family and the entire court.

Hotel Grand Timeo Present Day

Today the Grand Timeo Hotel is owned by the Belmond hotel group.

Belmond refurbished the property to its very exacting specifications.

My Arrival at the Grand Timeo

The Hotel Timeo is located at the very top of this hilltop resort town.

Most of the streets are pedestrian only.

My cab was able to enter by calling the Grand Timeo at a special checkpoint and continuing up the hill.

After the hour long journey from the Catania airport, it was great to be met at my cab by a well dressed bellman.

My luggage was quickly dispatched to my room.

I was able to have a quick check in.

And how I looked forward to my aperitif on the famous patio overlooking Mount Etna and the Ionian sea!

Feeling Excited About My Junior Suite at the Grand Timeo

When I book a hotel room for couples’ weekend, a suite is usually required.

We work hard and a vacation is a time to celebrate.

This trip was different.

It was all about the upscale solo female traveler experience.

As a wine expert, I usually travel around the world alone for wine competitions and wine region travel.

Yet this Taormina trip was a personal vacation.

An add-on to what would be a series of wine judging and wine writing experiences.

These would take place elsewhere in Sicily in the days to come.

The Dream of Sicily

It was my long-held dream was to come to Sicily.

And of course, I wanted to experience it in the most luxurious way possible.

The opportunity was realized at the Grand Timeo Hotel.

My suite was just one room, yet it was an extremely large room.

And if you consider the extensive bath area — and a walk-in closet the size of a NYC studio apartment – it was almost three rooms in one.

Even better, the patio overlooked the swimming pool.

And beyond the swimming pool, I could see and the Ionian sea and Mount Etna.

The suite also offered a sitting area where I could sit and read magazines.

As well as a desk.

Yet why stay inside when the large patio had a table as well, and I could do all this in the glorious sunshine?

The Best Things About the Belmond Grand Timeo

One of the best things about the Belmond Grand Timeo is that you get two hotels for the price of one.

By that,I mean that when you book a room at the Grand Timeo, you also have immediate access to their sister hotel the Sant’Andrea.

The Sant’Andrea is near the beach at Mazzaro Bay.

You can take a private complimentary shuttle to this resort hotel.

This is a great option if you want to enjoy a luxurious – and private – hotel beach experience.

I say this because I really value and appreciate having a beach to myself.

It’s also fun to meet fellow residents of the hotel.

Yet it is not very interesting to deal with the beach crowds during summer.

Couples & Families

During my visit, I liked the tranquility of the Sant’Andrea.

Couples will obviously enjoy the romantic aspects of this hotel.

Most children love the beach.

But they are probably are not too keen on being dragged around to historic sites.

So the Sant’Andrea is a great choice for families.

With the complimentary and frequent hotel shuttle, it is easy to go back and forth between the Sant‘Andrea and Grand Timeo as you please.

Discover Hotel Activities in Advance

When you book your hotel, be certain to ask the concierge for an ebook of activities created by the hotel.

This will be sent to you via email.

Depending on the dates of your visit, you may be able to book a variety of activities.

These can include trips to the village, a cooking class, a journey to Mount Etna, a “Dolce Vita Tour” of Sicily (involving stories featuring famous Old Hollywood personalities) and other events.

These other events can include shows at the Greek Theater, Helicopter Tours, and wine-related adventures.

You can even book a complimentary boat tour originating at the Sant’Andrea hotel.

It’s a good idea to speak to the concierge about what activities can be arranged as they are always changing.

Breakfast at the Grand Timeo

Like most five-star hotel breakfasts in Italy, this is a buffet.

You are free to order a variety of other dishes, such as omelets, poached eggs, pancakes, and other hot dishes that are included with the buffet.

Also included with breakfast are fresh juices, and Italian sparkling wine.

Guests have the option of sitting on the terrace with a view of Mount Etna and the azure Ionian sea, or the elegant interior dining room.

Final Thoughts

This is a luxurious hotel where you can experience the best that Taormina has to offer.

The best cuisine, the best service, and the best way to revisit the ancient past while enjoying the comforts of the modern world.

You can learn more about the sister hotel, Sant’Andrea here

The post Belmond Grand Timeo Hotel Review Taormina appeared first on The Luxury Report.

Tortue Hotel Hamburg

If you live almost anywhere in Europe, you have the luxury of traveling almost anywhere for a fun, romantic weekend.

So you can be in the beautiful city of Hamburg in just a bit over an hour.

Then you can enjoy luxury shopping, gourmet dining, museums, theater, and musical events this lovely city offers.

Tortue: Most Romantic Hotel in Hamburg

My weekend in Hamburg was spent at the luxury Tortue hotel.

It is a brand new, chic hotel in the center of Hamburg.

As a travel writer, I began my research for this Hamburg trip when I was on another trip, thousands of miles away.

Though it might seem like fun for some, it was actually hard work to read the reviews of all the upscale hotels.

I am VERY PICKY about hotels, so this took quite a bit of time.

How I Began my Hamburg Hotel Search

Like most people who crave luxury, I began with five star “known brand” hotels.

They all looked pretty nice.

The thing is, they looked … enormous.

Trip Advisor: Reading Between the Lines

It took a long time to research the reviews on trip advisor for the four and five star hotels.

Like most Trip Advisor reviews, reviewers all had their pros and cons when they wrote about a hotel.

As I was a solo female traveler on this trip, I was seeking out a good hotel, a known brand, and above all a safe Hotel.

Why My Initial List of Hotels Was Wrong …

The hotels that fit the criteria above (brand names known to me, safe …) were all large hotels mostly owned by branded American hotel corporations.

After taking a look at my list of preferred hotels, a Hamburg “insider” said she had better suggestions.

Tortue Hotel Hamburg

This is a very COOL hotel decorated in what can best be described as a “modern style” with lavish attention to detail.

It is not … too modern.

Yes, we’ve all stayed in these sometimes ridiculously modern hotels that sacrifice luxury and comfort for the sake of stark modernity.

Check-In at the Tortue Hotel Hamburg

A helpful bellman carried my bags upstairs from my taxi.

My room was on the fifth floor.

The room itself was FANTASTIC!

What I immediately liked about my Tortue hotel room.

The room was fairly large – let us call it medium size.

I noticed how beautifully it was decorated.

On one side of the room was a sofa with pillows and a large comfortable chair.

There was a coffee table.

Then, there was a sleek desk in front of the very comfortable looking bed.

Lots of fluffy pillows, too.

The Tortue Hotel Bathroom

When you are traveling for a luxury weekend, you expect the bathroom to be luxurious.

Though I did not have a suite, mine was a very nice bathroom.

Fairly large and well organized.

Spotlessly clean.

In this particular room, you will find a  combination bath and shower.

The Bath Experience

I love a good bath.

The tub itself is deep so you could really immerse yourself.

The Tortue Hotel Breakfast Experience

Some describe people into two distinct categories.

1) Those who feel breakfast is the most important meal of the day.

2) Those who do not.

So if you love breakfast, Tortue is the place to be.

Having stayed at my fair share of luxury hotels, I’ve had lots of luxury breakfasts.

Tortue is among the absolute best.

The Tortue Breakfast: What is Best?

Depending on your reservation category, breakfast can be included or not.

The Tortue Breakfast Buffet

As far as buffets go, this is one of the best in Europe.

You will find a very nice mixed fruit bowl (kiwi, pineapple, strawberries) diced in an almost a surgical fashion.

Very exact.

Then there were the macarons!!!

Those delicious pastel colored pastries typically served by celebrity chefs after a top tier meal

And lots of delicious looking pastry you would more typically find in a high end Parisian pastry shop.

Of course, I took full advantage of sampling the display of nuts and grains (think very fresh walnuts, hazelnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds) there to top off your yoghurt.

The Buffet Bread Table

Despite the “no-carb” movement” around the world, it was necessary to check out the bread table.

The bread is an excellent selection of every bread you could possibly desire, from bread with grains to a delicious crusty French Baguette.

The Tortue A La Carte Breakfast Menu

You will find luxurious breakfast items like omelets, poached eggs, etc.

You will also find some curious extras … like the most delicious chicken soup (filed under the “hangover section” of the menu).

And also breakfast items like a Croque Monsieur.

The Two Tortue Fine Dining Restaurants

Tortue has two restaurants in the hotel.

One is the Asian Restaurant Jin Gui

The other is the French Brasserie Tortue.

I liked them both.

Jin Gui at Hamburg Tortue Hotel

Jin Gui is a very modern looking restaurant.

The offerings are what you would find in many Asian restaurants.

Yet that said, service is a notch above most Asian restaurants and the cuisine is also a step above.

One of my favorite dishes was the miso soup starter.

The salmon sashimi was delicious, yet what really stood out was the green wild herb salad.

The French Brasserie Tortue

This is an excellent French Brasserie with a very profession, extremely well trained staff.

I visit a lot of high end restaurants around the world …

…  yet felt that the service training here was superior to many top French restaurants.

As a Tortue guest, it was easy to open the door from the hotel lobby to the Brasserie.

The host and hostess greeted me warmly and spoke English well.

I am glad that I took a few moments to dress up a bit after my busy day, as the crowd was fairly well dressed …

… men mostly wore suits, women wore dresses, scarves, earrings, etc.

A dress up place.

Yet not that dressy.

I was wearing fresh black jeans, but a very nice Anne Fontaine long sweater, black top, and pearls.

I already knew from scanning the menu online what I would order…

… It would either be a seafood starter and salad (fresh shrimp and salad), grilled fish, or  Bouillabaisse …

Though I wasn’t super hungry, I decided to check out the French Bouillabaisse …

This Bouillabaisse was delicious … filled with an enticing broth shrimp, cod, salmon, and octopus.

It arrived in a giant pot (the old fashioned Marseille style).

Scanning the wine list, I found some well-chosen bottles along with some intriguing classics.

Final Thoughts

Though it was a “solo female traveler” trip instead of the romantic weekend getaway it should have been, I loved the entire weekend experience.

Read: Shopping, Dining, and Art in Hamburg

The post Tortue Hotel Hamburg appeared first on The Luxury Report.

Archer Napa Hotel Review

Are you looking for romantic hotels in Napa Valley?

Napa Valley is wine country.

And wine country means romance.

To me, the secret of a truly romantic weekend in the Napa Valley means finding the right hotel.

This is a review of the luxury hotel Archer Napa Hotel, including its rooms, restaurants, bars, and pool

The Right Hotel in the Napa Valley

I have a handful of romantic hotels in Napa Valley I like.

I like each one for a different reason.

This blog post is about my experience at Archer Napa, one of the new Romantic hotels in Napa Valley.

Archer Napa: Located in the Heart of the New Luxurious Napa City

You will find many romantic hotels in the Napa Valley.

Many of my favorites are in Yountville or in St. Helena.

Yet only at Archer Napa can you be a short walking distance to the best restaurants and wine shops.

And especially, the CIA Napa which offers an amazing restaurant and wide variety of culinary and wine events.

The Napa Valley is also called “California Wine Country” …

… it is one of the most beautiful areas in the United States.

The Napa Valley is famous for wine tasting and romantic hotels.

Archer Napa: Ultimate Romantic Hotel to Chill and Relax

You can chill and relax at many romantic hotels in the Napa Valley.

But here is the thing.

Some people like to chill and relax in the privacy of your own room and patio.

And that’s cool.

Others like to watch other people chill and relax.

Sky and Vine Rooftop at Archer Napa

This rooftop space has fabulous views over main street.

You will also notice a canopy of olive trees.

Lots of energizing stone fire pits.

Up close views of the California sky stars.

The rooftop at night has a magical vibe.

Something like an outdoor nightclub.

. . . .Some very serious attention to decor is evidenced by the living topiary sculptures and ambient festoon lighting.

The night of my visits, the guests at the rooftop bar seemed an interesting mix of savvy Napa Valley locals and guests.

Though it was technically winter (January in the Napa Valley can be chilly), it was warm enough to enjoy the outdoor air without heating.

Also on the roof is the exercise studio, and the spa that offers a selection of massages, bodywork, and facials designed to relax.

Archer Napa: Every Romantic Hotel in Napa Valley has a Pool

And virtually every one of these pools is a place where people can chill and relax, and meet other guests.

What I like best about the pool at Archer Napa is this:

1 – The pool is located on the rooftop of the hotel, so you can take a look down to see what is happening on Main Street.

2. You will find lounge chairs ACTUALLY in the pool.

Yes, inside the pool! 

This very well be the place to show off those thousands of hours you spent at the gym

3. While you relax on your lounge chair IN THE POOL, you can sip one of the exotic cocktails Archer Napa is famous for.

Archer Napa: Charlie Palmer Steakhouse

Charlie Palmer Steakhouse is the signature restaurant in Archer Napa.

Yes, you will be able to have dinner inside the restaurant proper.

Yet you can also enjoy the “spillover space” that makes up the lobby of Archer Napa.

I suppose this can also be called a “lounge,” yet to me it felt like an unofficial extension of the restaurant.

On a recent Saturday night, it was full of people sipping exotic looking cocktails.

Your Personal Bar in Your Personal Suite

The rooms are very attractive at Archer Napa, but take a suite if you want to explore one of the most romantic hotels in Napa Valley.

Our suite came equipped with a bar and all those cool bartender amenities …

… like equipment for muddling, stirring, and shaking.

The suite at Archer Napa also came with very high end stemware for the expensive wine you bought at a wine tasting.

And appropriate cocktail glasses as well.

The Bath at Archer Napa Hotel

To me, a gorgeous bathroom is essential when it comes to the most romantic hotels in the Napa valley.

Our suite had the largest bathtub I have every seen in a hotel room.

And this is from a person who stays in a lot of five star hotels.

More about the Bathroom at Archer Napa 

When I look at hotel review web sites, the most important element that catches my attention is reviews around the bathroom.

What I liked about my Archer Napa suite was that the bathroom was also fairly large.

Two people can use this bathroom at the same time (two sinks, a separate large shower and large tub, etc).

So that may be important for you to know.

Archer Napa: Toy Duck Waiting For Me In The Bath

In my experience, amenities often change with the season or the hotel General Manager.

Yet on this visit I found it cute I was thrilled to discover a “bling” rubber duck on a towel near the bath.

I also found it cute that the face towel had the words “take the day off” embroidered on it.

So true!  

Archer Napa Breakfast in Bed

The Living Room of Archer Napa Suite

Romantic hotels in Napa Valley should all have a separate room.

A room where where people can just chill out.

In our suite, I entered the room to find the living room, bar, and then a separate room leading to the large bedroom and bath.

Our living room had a sofa, television, and coffee table – also the perfect spot to invite friends up for a drink.

This room also has access to the patio (more on this later).

If you want to order room service from Charlie Palmer, this is also where you would want to have your dinner.

Though many people who enjoy romantic hotels in Napa Valley may also want to have diner in bed.

The Patio of Archer Napa Suites

Ordinarily, I would take full advantage of a patio in my room.

During this trip, my days were spent at the nearby Culinary Institute of America at a wine conference.

This patio has a table and two lounge chairs for sun.

My visit was in January.

Despite being winter, the weather was gorgeous during the day.

So this patio is a great place to just relax and chat privately …

… away from the crowd at the rooftop pool.

Keep in mind that the views are all different, so if you absolutely need a view facing main street you should express this when you reserve.

Archer Napa Charlie Palmer Steak House

At the time of this writing the executive chef is Jeff Russell.

You can enter from the street, or within the hotel itself.

More About Archer Napa

This romantic hotel in Napa Valley bills itself as “wine country with urban undertones”

January 2019 was my first stay at this new hotel, and I liked it so much

Archer Napa Favorite Things

1. The gorgeous room with the fabulous bath.

2. The location on main street, just 3 minutes by foot to anywhere you would want to go.

3. The rooftop bar and pool.

I can just imagine that in summer, The Archer is the place to go.

During my visit, I did not have an opportunity to take advantage of the spa.

Yet I did see the state-of-the-art rooftop fitness studio.

This offers Matrix cardio, free weights and an outdoor deck.

The spa is operated by the locally acclaimed Francis & Alexander team.

It offers a selection of massages, bodywork and facials designed to relax and rejuvenate.

Archer Napa: Conferences and More

The Archer does have conference space.

It seems a very prestigious venue for events.

Romantic Hotels in Napa Valley for Non-Drivers

This hotel is the perfect hotel for couples who want to experience a hotel where everything is in reach.

I loved that I did not need to take a car anywhere.

Because this hotel is in downtown Napa, you can walk to winery tasting rooms.

Some of the most famous restaurants in the world are just steps away.

Archer Napa: Lay of the Land

This boutique hotel is set in the heart of flourishing downtown Napa.

Here you are near the distinctive shops and dining of First Street Napa …

… and just steps from the Napa Riverfront and Oxbow Public Market.

With dozens of walkable tasting rooms, world-class restaurants and live entertainment, downtown Napa is positioned to be the next great Napa Valley destination.

Hotel Information

Archer Napa
1230 1st St, Napa, CA 94559
(707) 690-9800

Final Tips 

Consider this face cover to block out the strong sun – more effective than sunscreen.

Wear a hat – this one is made from a fabric with sun blocking agents inside of it.

Think about a sun shawl to protect you as you stay under the sun

If you liked this article, you will like:

Review of Grand Timeo Taoromina

Review of Le Negresco

Review of Tortue Hotel Hamburg 

Review of Hotel Urban Madrid

The post Archer Napa Hotel Review appeared first on The Luxury Report.