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The hotel is housed in the American Radiator building, the stunning black-and-gold 1920s Gothic landmark which inspired Georgia O"Keefe"s famous 1927 painting, Radiator Building, Night, New York

Rising 25 stories above mid-town Manhattan, situated between Fifth and Sixth Avenues and overlooking the lovely Bryant Park, this ultra-chic hotel houses 129 spacious guest rooms, including 17 suites and ten park-view terraces with 360-degree panoramic views.

The interiors are sumptuous, with rooms offering such luxuries as authentic Tibetan rugs, goose-down duvets, travertine bathrooms kitted out by Czech & Speake with the finest toiletries from Molton Brown and Bose Wave music systems. The hotel is housed in the American Radiator building, the stunning black-and-gold 1920´s Gothic landmark which inspired Georgia O’Keefe’s famous 1927 painting, Radiator Building – Night, New York. The city’s fashion industry is an integral part of The Bryant Park Hotel, accounting for 60% of the hotel’s business. The venue plays a key role in New York’s semi-annual Fashion Week, while the hotel’s Cellar Bar, a spectacular 3,000-square-foot subterranean haunt, hosts many private events, functions and fashion shows throughout the year. The Cellar Bar continues to be frequented by the coolest of New York’s glitterati.

The Bryant Park Hotel's stunning 70-seat private screening room holds weekly screenings and is favoured by studio executives for its intimacy and state of the art technology. Halle Berry, Harvey Weinstein, Leonardo DiCaprio, Madonna, Yoko Ono, John Travolta, and Martin Scorsese are just some of those who have attended functions here. The Bryant Park Hotel reinforced its status when one of LA´s hippest restaurants, KOI, with Asian fusion cuisine, chose The Bryant Park Hotel as its New York location.

ROMANCE PACKAGESet the music, light the candles and immerse yourself in the indulgence of sensual hanalini bath with warm essential oils of orchid, Madagascan ylang-ylang, Egyptian neroli and Chinese cinnamon leaving the skin seductively soft. Silky, luxuriously aromatic bubbles leaves skin supremely pampered and are made for sharing! Bring the romance into the bedroom and enjoy a complimentary in room movie of your choice. Lose yourself in all the hours of the night and then relish the simple pleasures in the morning of sleeping in and having breakfast in bed. Package includes:• Romantic Room – Setup – Special setup prepared in your room prior to arrival • Full American Breakfast for 2 with a carafe of Mimosa’s • Complimentary Champagne (upon arrival) • Complimentary 2:00pm late check out • Complimentary On-Demand Movie (your choice from our extensive adult film library) • Molton Brown Bath Products, Natural Exfoliating Pad and White Mulberry Airlight Complimentary CD to listen to and take with you September 2 to December 31, 2008Junior Suite - $599.00Bryant Park Suite - $699.00 Rates are subject to tax, currently at 13.375% plus $3.50 per room, or $5.50 per suite. These packages are subject to availability. One night’s room and tax charge will be applied if changes or cancellations are not made by 12:00 Noon, Eastern Standard Time, 48 hours prior to arrival. THE | BRYANT PARK HOTEL40 West 40th StreetNew York, NY 10018www.bryantparkhotel.com

Bryant Park Hotel, New York

Bryant Park Hotel, New York

Bryant Park Hotel, New York

Bryant Park Hotel, New York

Bryant Park Hotel, New York

Darjeeling (un)Ltd?

If you saw Wes Anderson’s film The Darjeeling Ltd. and thought you might like to recreate the adventure, start well before the plot begins and take a pilgrimage to Glenburn. It was whilst staying on this, the most magical of tea estates, that Anderson conceived the idea for the film. Quite frankly, he could hardly have been anything but inspired.Some 600km from Kolkata and an hour or so from Darjeeling town, the Glenburn Tea Estate clings to the foothills of the Himalayas, bordering the kingdom of Sikkim. Kanchenjunga, the world’s 3rd highest mountain, dominates the horizon and two rivers, the Rungeet and the Rung Dung, entwine themselves as they run through valleys not out of place in a Tolkien novel. Overlooking it all is the Burra Bungalow, Glenburn’s boutique hotel and former home of the estate manager, your host Sanjay Sharma. Other than the spectacular natural environment, there are two things that set Glenburn apart from other places to stay in Darjeeling or, indeed, elsewhere in the world. Firstly, you will never be crowded by other people. There are just four rooms in the Burra Bungalow and another four are due to open later this year. The result of this is that it simply doesn’t feel like a hotel; you are a guest in a home, welcome to roam around the estate all day and then return for drinks, dinner and lively conversation around the giant dining table once darkness falls.

Next, the attention to detail of Glenburn’s staff (who outnumber guests five to one) is second to none. Freshly prepared picnics, afternoon tea and fresh juice appear from nowhere across the estate whether you are trekking the 2 hours down to the river or merely mooching in the garden. The food, ingredients for which are grown organically on the estate wherever possible, is exquisite and guests are treated to both Nepali and Naga dishes as well as international cuisine. The homemade breads and chocolate brownies slip down a treat.Lest you think that Glenburn exists to provide a tourist paradise, you need to think again. Huge energy is undoubtedly put in to making the Glenburn experience perfect for visitors but the fact remains that the estate’s principal business is tea. The estate comprises 1600 acres of tea and jungle and employs around 900 people in tea production. A population of 4700 people is supported by the estate, which clothes and feeds them as well as providing health care and education. The estate’s management take responsibility for local development and if you’re interested will share every aspect of their work with you, from factory tours and tea tastings to school and hospital visits. Glenburn offers you an unrivalled opportunity to retreat from the rest of the world but also the chance to understand and engage with the community that works and lives on the estate.

Accommodation: 

Doubles from $400Single from $265Extra person, sharing room. $70

Contact details: 

telephone number 0091 33 2288 5630 email address info@glenburnteaestate.com

www.glenburnteaestate.com

Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling, India

Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling, India

Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling, India

Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling, India

Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling, India

Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling, India

The ice hotel in Quebec is being reconstructed and will be ready from January 4th.

Hôtel de Glace, Quebec, CanadaRooms: 36 double rooms and suites Prices start CA $3950,50 per personOpen from: January 4th to April 4th 2010

As you read this, the Hôtel de Glace, the only ice hotel in North America, is being reconstructed for the new season in Quebec. Inspired by inuit igloos, the hotel first opened its doors in 2001 and so far over half a million visitors have spent a night there just for the experience. Snow archways tower over 5 meters tall and crystal ice sculptures stand by the warmth of the fire and a magnificent ice candelabra is illuminated by optical fibreEvery year the hotel is rebuilt with new designs and sculptures. There’s even an ice chapel and couples regularly get married here. There are 3 hot tubs a sauna in the Nordic relaxation area and of course the famous Ice Bar with a capacity for 400 people, where cocktails are served in glasses made of ice.All beds have a solid ice base and a wooden bedspring with a mattress on top. When ready for bed you will slip into an arctic sleeping bag with blanket and pillow and the ambient temperature will remain between -3°C and -5°C, no matter the outside temperature.

There’s a choice of room styles, Theme Suites which contain works of art, snow sculptures each with its own design. Some Them  Suites come with a fireplace and the interplay between the fire light from the log fireplace and the ice is delightful.  Theme suites have not only a fireplace but a private spa too. This is truly a fairytale setting complete with a view of Lac St-Jospeh.This year the hotel is offering packages such as Northern Discovery – hotel stay, a welcome cocktail, dinner, use ot tubs and sauna, buffet breakfast and everything you need for a good night’s sleep. Prices start from $349,50 per person.Their Winter Experience package also includes dogsledding and starts at £449,50 per person. Hôtel de Glace, Quebec, CanadaLocated at the Station touristique Duchesnay (30 minutes west of Québec City).www.hoteldeglace-canada.com

Hôtel de Glace, Quebec, Canada

Hotel de Glace, Quebec Canada

Hôtel de Glace, Quebec, Canada

Netting five star accommodation in St Ives, Cornwall is easy at Sail Lofts five star self-catering accommodation says Sharron Livingston

If your idea of the perfect escape includes a beach, winding cobbled streets, rugged landscape, some eccentric local lingo and a gorgeous cream tea, then Cornwall is a great choice.

Add the exhilerating surfs, the superb Tate gallery and a thriving art culture that includes a colony of artists, Turner and Barbara Hepworth, and St Ives stands out as a superb activity-cum cultural break.

I holidayed there recently and though St Ives has its fair of share hotels and B&Bs, another couple and two kids also came along for the jolly so it made sense to look for self-catering accommodation.

To really make the most of our break we wanted to be near the beach, within walking distance of the harbour (where the best restaurants are) and close enough to the shops for those last minute provisions and the odd bottle of the local scrumpy. We were also on the look out for a little luxury and as many mod cons as possible.With this in mind the five star rated Sail lofts apartments (so called because these were the sail lofts where local fishermen used to clean their nets), located on the soft-sand wide-brimmed Porthemeor beach, ticked all the boxes.This brand new development comprises twelve houses and apartments of various sizes clustered around a garden courtyard that has its own wet room to store wet suits and surf boards.

As there were six of us, we chose the Slipway house because it offered three double bedrooms, two with en-suite bathrooms and 1 with twin beds (for the kids) and an en-suite shower. There is a large fully equipped kitchen / diner where all six of us could breakfast comfortably and a huge living room with gabled celings and exposed beams on the third floor.Décor is elegant with white walls and light wood floorings with extra colours added by the furnishings. The most beautiful aspect was in the living room where an integral terrace framed a dazzling view over the beach especially as the sun set throwing pink hues over the Atlantic. A swinging sixties style chair hangs from the ceiling where I enjoyed a few blissful moments of quiet contemplation.A thoughtful welcome pack of bread, butter, jam, fruit juice, eggs and tea, coffee and hot chocolate to start us off was a lovely touch and the kids enjoyed MP3 speaker units, while (hate to admit it) I made use of the free wi fi.

There were also fluffly towels and flush-with-the-wall TVs in the bathroom so it came as quite a surprise that there were no other toiletries (apart from a gorgeous locally made soap) to complete the luxury experience and there was no hair dryer.But most importantly the beds are wonderfully comfy with soft bed linens that made slipping under the duvet after a hard day of bracing walks and  frolicks on beach, pure joy.www.thesaillofts.co.uk

Sail Lofts Self Catering, St Ives, Cornwall

Sail Lofts Self Catering, St Ives, Cornwall

Sail Lofts Self Catering, St Ives, Cornwall

Wild West at Portaventura

At some point in every young child’s imagination, they become interested in the Wild West and stories of cowboys and cowgirls; tumbleweed; cacti and horses. 

A brand new resort hotel at Portaventura Resort in Spain has taken imagination to the next level and if you visit the 4* Hotel Gold River; you can totally immerse yourself in the Wild West experience.The resort has over 500 rooms spread throughout eleven buildings and cabins set out in an replica of a genuine and unique town of the early 1800’s.  The story behind the resort is that of a ‘Lucy Callaghan’ who, in 1800, discovered some glittering rocks in a river.  The discovery of the gold leads to the foundation of the town of Sullivan, Colorado and it includes the typical buildings of the era from saloons to the Opera House and City Hall.  The streets are interspersed with Stage Coaches, Steam Engines and even Cattle to give that authentic experience.The hotel was opened by it’s Sheriff, the legendary Larry Hagman (JR Ewing in Dallas), in mid July who declared it was so authentic, it reminded him of his younger days in Texas.  The designers who came up with the concept researched every detail of the plans, from the stories of the characters to the design of the buildings and used genuine historic documents and photographs to ensure authenticity.The Hotel Gold River has direct access to the Portaventura Theme Park, which, since is opening in 1995, has become an  intrinsic part of any trip to the Costa Dorada.  The theme park itself offers over 30 rides and attractions spread among 5 ‘lands’; allowing you to experience the sights and sounds of other areas of the world.  From gravity-defying 80mph roller coasters to simple carousels; the park caters for all age groups.  The park also allows visitors to get up close and personal with some of their favourite cartoon characters, including Woody Woodpecker, Popeye and Betty Boop, as well as various famous faces from Sesame Street.  The neighbouring Caribe Aquatic Park is just the place to go and cool down in the Spanish heat.  The Caribbean-based Park creates hours of fun through it’s various waterslides, lazy river and ‘beach’ with a very realistic wave machine.  However, if the Theme Park and Aquatic parks are a little too busy for you; a visit to the resorts own Beach Club might be the escape you need.  With 7 swimming pools and direct access to the Mediterranean sea; the Beach Club is the ultimate in relaxation.  The waterbeds; infinity pools and Jacuzzis are the perfect complement to the Spa treatments on offer.A big part of a holiday is the food – and whilst in the Theme Park, you can get the usual fayre of burgers, fries and noodles; at the Hotel Gold River and the Lumine Restaurant at the Beach Club, you can savour some haute cuisine including local fish and shrimps; succulent steaks and stunning desserts (even a second helping, in my case!) washed down by some regional fine wines.Portaventura is located in Salou, one of Spain’s best known resorts, and only 60 miles from the city of Barcelona.  So if you feel like seeing some more of the area, it is easy to get around and take some time out from the theme park. Getting there is easy too; the resort is 10 minutes away from Reus Airport, served by numerous operators including Ryanair from a number of UK and Irish airports and about an hour away from Barcelona Airport which can be accessed by rail or road from the resort.

Portavenutra Resort comprises a 2 theme parks, 2 golf courses, a beach club and 3 on-site hotels.The resort is located on the outskirts of Salou on the Costa Dorada with flights connections available from Reus (10 mins from resort) and Barcelona (1hr from resort)

PortAventura Park is open daily from 27 March to 31 October; Saturdays and Sundays 1 Nov-18 December and daily 19 December-6 January 2010. Visit Portaventura website for more information

Portaventura Resort

Portaventura Resort

Portaventura Resort

Portaventura Resort

Radisson Blu reviewed by Elizabeth Mistry

It is a bright and sunny afternoon when I tumble out of my taxi into the airy, glass fronted reception at the Radisson Blu in Durham.There’s a genuine smile from the lady at reception and  check in is swift and professional.  I’m up to my standard room on the second floor (the larger rooms and suites are higher up, some have partial views of the Castle) in moments. The room is all that I’d expected from one of the latest offerings from this efficient  chain of midrange business-orientated hotels which just happens to be situated in a very convenient spot for a few days of gallery and museum hopping in one of the UK’s most popular university cities – and which, fortuitously, has  a UNESCO World Heritage site on its doorstep.There’s plenty of space here – enough for a travel cot or possibly even a small extra bed - I could have brought the mini Mistryguest and still just about managed – and the cupboards are helpfully labelled (though I wish they weren't) with little icons for the iron and icebucket – neither of which I plan on using as there is a perfectly serviceable, if somewhat quiet looking bar downstairs. Hanging space is limited – as is the bathroom – but all the necessities are in place and the free, easy to use internet access is a nice touch.There isn’t a lot to keep me in the room – although I’m briefly intrigued by the clock on the flat screen TV - and the view over the river is calling.  But first there’s just time to grab a bite in the Fellini restaurant.  The name isn’t inspiring but the menu has isn’t hopelessly bland as I’d feared and features some great local cheeses. Thanks to the cheese and the comfy bed there’s time for a quick swim in the pool the next morning.   Rather annoyingly the pool and treatment rooms are accessed via reception (which may put offputting if you aren't in the habit of walking around in a fluffy white robe in public).Luckily it turns out to be one of the nicest ‘business’ hotel pools I’ve seen for a while - a really generous size, spotless and best of all, almost empty.  All is not perfect however.  Nowhere in the room did I see anything about needing a pound coin for the lockers – and no one pointed it out as I pass (proudly in my fluffy white robe) through reception.   I’ve rushed down in my swimsuit and robe leaving everything else behind in the room safe. There’s no one around in the changing area to ask – and I can’t face trailing back to the health club reception so I just leave my robe in an empty locker. If I’d had a bag it would have been a real issue.After a brisk swim I wash out my grievances and head to the restaurant (still in my robe).  There are still 10 minutes until breakfast is due to finish but the place is deserted – so I decide to stay. Almost everything has finished and again there doesn’t seem to be anyone around to ask for more juice or a plate that would hold anything more than a Very Small Bread Roll. A few hours later I’m passing the entrance to the restaurant when a jolly lady hails me.  “You left your swimsuit here at breakfast”, she tells me kindly. “I handed it in to the front desk.”  What a star she is.  Denise deserves employee of the month.  If only the lovely ladies at reception had been able to find it. It took me three polite enquiries at reception before I was finally reunited with it the next day.  It was still wet.Would I come back?  Yes, the warmth of the staff and the location make it a great option – and the pool and affordable treatment rooms give it a welcome touch of luxury.

Rooms at the Radisson Blu in Durham start at £85.00 including breakfast. 

Radisson Blue, Durham

This hotel will touch all your senses says Robin Roth

From the moment I drove into the Ritz-Carlton entrance, with its lavish landscaping and beautiful fountains, I felt the glamorous, renowned mystique of the Palm Beach world. I was quite taken by the warm and easy ambiance, combined with the stunning grandeur of the newly decorated foyer which displayed a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean . The décor of the lobby is relaxed and open, yet ultra-stylish and elegant with calming earth tones and extraordinarily lush, cozy sitting areas.  The grounds of the hotel comprises acres of gorgeous tropical gardens, exclusive beach front property, cool ocean breezes, and an abundance of South Florida sunshine. The award winning Ritz-Carlton offers the first-of-its-kind approach to service with an exceptionally trained staff presenting personalized service who remarkably knew my name upon entering the hotel even before I registered. Every request was greeted with kind words such as,  “Of couse as you wish”, “No worries”, "My pleasure", and “Absolutely right away”. How special to hear in today’s fast paced world.The Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach Hotel has several different room categories. I stayed in a stunning deluxe, ocean- front king suite. Both the chic living room and bedroom featured a double-sized private balcony overlooking the pool areas and the ocean as far as the eye could see. My suite was not only beautiful but immensely roomy and comfortable with every amenity I could dream of. Lanai terrace guestrooms and suites are a great way to enjoy the comfort and flexibility of the first floor with easy access to the beach and swimming pools.Club Level guestrooms and suites are a premier selection for any traveller desiring that extra special touch. The Club Lounge with Concierge is an extra benefit of choosing this category. All the hotel rooms have a  private balcony, marble bath with rain showerheads, separate bathtub, hair dryer, exquisite Italian-made mahogany furnishings, wood-lined closet, sleeper chair and ottoman,  32” LCD HDTV flat-screen television with DVD player, On-demand video and viewing guide, laptop-friendly safe, wireless internet, two-line cordless telephones, complimentary morning newspaper, twice-daily housekeeping attention, room service available 24 hours a day, bath butler and bath menus, complimentary overnight shoeshine, overnight laundry service, dry cleaning, and a fully stocked honour bar. Suites offer the above amenities with the addition or upgrade of: bedside pamper-panel controls, sofa sleeper instead of chair, bedroom chaise, two bathrooms, oversized ocean-view bathtub, two 32" LCD HDTV flat-screen television and DVD players.Dining at the Ritz-Carlton offers several options:Temple OrangeOcean-view restaurant with in and out-door dining, serving breakfast, lunch and featuring contemporary Italian cuisine for dinner. I myself highly recommend the Barolo braised veal shank and the grouper Potacchio, simply yummy. Don’t forget the “molten cake and shake for dessert”.Oceanfront Cabana DiningIn the private cabanas, chefs create a unique, customized, magical evening on the ocean's edge.BreezeCocktails and light fare on the ocean's edge.Stir Bar & The TerraceDaytime location for refreshments and a light menu, and the evening social center around the oceanfront terrace and fire pit.AngleIs an ultra upscale, modern American restaurant with regional influences, fresh seafood and prime cuts.   One of my favorite experiences at the Ritz was their lovely afternoon tea. The gorgeous ocean view setting, comfy couches, luscious tea sandwiches, scones and pastries make this event an enjoyable afternoon must.The hotel features two incredible outdoor pools, a 3,000-square-foot oceanfront terrace with a lovely evening fire pit, oceanfront dining and the AquaNuts Ritz Kids facility. The Aquanuts is an astounding playroom with computers, music and dress up costumes, sports, games, arts and crafts, swimming pool play, and nature tours and is ideal for kids. For teenagers there is the Coast Teens Lounge. Some other features are the Boutique Spa with luxurious Spa treatments, a state of the art fitness facility, oceanfront cabana rentals filled with everything imaginable, three tennis courts with on-site pro, preferred seating at most of the area’s featured attractions, full aquatic sports, boating and fishing, technology butler services, babysitting services, limousine services, valet parking, and shopping concierge.Another key perk is the 24-hour access Golden Parachute Business Lounge. The Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach offers the most innovative, futuristic, progressive facilities and approach for their business guests. The centre has computer terminals, screen LCD televisions, high speed internet access, colour printer, copy machines and fax, support staff, audio visual services, equipment rental, shipping and administrative services. There are, also air-conditioned Pool-side Business Cabanas with private terraces adjacent to the resort pool where business professionals can conduct a conference call, a meeting, or even a working lunch. This stunning hotel is first class yet regarding what to wear, I felt just as comfortable wearing swim wear as I did formal attire.

Verdict: This top notch hotel  is the ideal destination for a romantic getaway, honeymoon, family vacation, a luxurious, restful escape, or simply for the purpose of business.

www.Ritzcarlton.comTel:  561-533-6000  100 South Ocean Boulevard, Manalapan , FL 33462 USA     

Ritz-Cartlton Palm Beach, Florida, USA

Ritz-Cartlton Palm Beach, Florida, USA

Ritz-Cartlton Palm Beach, Florida, USA

Ritz-Cartlton Palm Beach, Florida, USA

Ritz-Cartlton Palm Beach, Florida, USA

Ritz-Cartlton Palm Beach, Florida, USA

A five star hotel resort located 10 minutes from Phuket Interntional airport.

This five star hotel delivers convenience for the airport and quirky design, courtesy of Bill Bensley, to enhance a short stay in Phuket.

Decor is fashioned out of restyled artifacts sourced from a local tin factory - a sort of industrial chic - inspired by the tin mining history of Phuket, which is nicely offset by lots of wood. The theme is consitent throughout, including in the bedrooms where bolt-studded toiletry boxes and tin bins and industrial piping in the bathrooms complete the look.

Dining is varied and includes Thai, tapas and grills and also a pool side bar. The food is generally ver good, but the service can be a little slow though.

The hotel's accommodation consists of 227 rooms and villas, pool pavilions and suites which come with balconies.

Facilities include eight food and beverage outlets. three pools, a spa, a spacious state-of-the-art gym, a conference pavilion, kids' club, cookery school, home furnishing shop and even a florist.

The resort overlooks the Nai Yang beach is protected as part of the national parks but on the downside it is not pristine and Phuket has better beaches elsewhere. The resort also offers a Beach Club area but this is a short walk away. Alternatively there is a transfer service.

The hotel is ideal for the aiport but not so for Patong or Phuket town. However there is a hotel shuttle that will get you to Patong for around 500THB return.

Overall, the hotel is a design lover's dream, with ample facilities for a quiet, relaxing stay. Staff are and dining facilities are varied offering fresh, tasty food. The six different styles of room are comfortable and often spacious.

Standard room rate: 7280THB (around £117) per night

For more details and to book this hotel click here

Indigo Pearl, Phuket, Thailand

Indigo Pearl, Phuket, Thailand

Indigo Pearl, Phuket, Thailand

Indigo Pearl Hotel

Robin Roth left her heart at Boca Raton

The legendary multi award-winning Boca Raton Resort and Club presents a fresh, cutting edge approach to hospitality in a timeless lavish setting. The resort comprises 1,047 deluxe guestrooms inclusive of 58 suites, 76 junior suites and 60 one-bedroom Boca bungalows.

Tracing its origins to the vision of legendary architect Addison Mizner, the hotel re-defines classic style and sophistication that is infused with a modern sense of warmth and style. Dreamers, risk-takers, moguls and millionaires all contributed to the creation of Florida 's Boca Raton and the stellar Boca Raton Resort & Club.  This magical resort is an icon of a hotel filled with pure charm for more than 80 years and remains faithful to its glamorous past. However, with its recent facelift of $220 million in renovations, it now possesses a vibrant new energy that offers luxuries, and activities making this the  one-stop all around vacation spots I have found in years.

Amenities include: a half-mile stretch of private beach, the plush Spa Palazzo, two 18-hole championship golf courses and a golf clubhouse, the famed Dave Pelz Scoring Game School, one of the country’s top tennis programs with 30 tennis courts and the Chris Evert Adult and Junior Academy, full-service marina, seven swimming pools, (the hard part was picking just one to bask around) three state-of-the-art fitness centres and a variety of water sports. Other Recreation activities on the grounds are bicycling, croquet, volleyball and basketball.Families are well catered for with activities and children's programs. The Camp Boca program is a supervised daily service and recreational program, available year-round and geared specifically to each of two distinct age groups - Boca Tots (ages 3-5) and Boca Bunch (ages 6-11) how cool is that!For business needs, there is more than 150,000 square feet of meeting and event space. If you have to work, this is the place to do it.The resort also offers, the Boca Country Club, a 32-slip marina with full fishing and boating facilities, and a half-mile of private beach with water sports.As I walked around the landscaped grounds, the views were gorgeous from the ocean and intercostals, to the yachts, gardens, golf courses and swimming areas, to the total beauty of the hotel itself. It is also, the ideal place for a wedding.     With the modern and contemporary feel of an Italian piazza, the newly renovated stunning Palm Court with its spectacular ceiling gives the illusion of a glass canopy designed to capture an abundance of natural light. In addition, the newly designed lobby, French artist-architect Thierry Despont has created a “return to casual life in a stylish and graceful environment” drawing on Mizner’s own DNA.What I found most astonishing about the resort, is its variety in accommodations. If you can’t find your dream hotel here, then it doesn’t exist at all. Five styles of accommodation cater to personal preferences by offering options in size, setting, decorative design, rate and access to resort amenities. They range from elegant to traditional to modern, to chic and relaxing. So, allow me to give you the quick tour. First, I would like to tell you about my personal favorite…The Yacht Club:

With its truly elegant décor inspired by a Venetian palace, the 112 deluxe guestrooms and suites are situated on the spectacular Intracoastal Waterway. All of these rooms are waterfront and feature large private balconies. I found my balcony quite delightful and peaceful allowing for relaxing and memorable serene moments. Very romantic I might add, too bad I was alone.

Touches of luxury include the rich custom furnishings featuring an awesome canopy bed, sitting parlour and marble and granite bath with plush cozy bedding. This room is simply divine. Furthermore, and one of my favorite luxuries of this section of the resort is the exclusive concierge level which provides even more upgraded amenities.

The Commodore Club offers a full staff of concierge to assist with guest arrangements. No matter how many requests I made, they were delivered with care and a smile. Access to the exclusive Commodore Club, which is a posh concierge lounge located on the eighth floor, is available to those staying in concierge-level accommodations. This exclusive private lounge provides five complimentary yummy meal presentations daily, as well as and evening hors d'oeuvres. This part of the resort is fit for royalty. Oh, let us not forget the on-call butler service (and who wouldn’t love this).The Tower:  I loved the stunning tower with its classic warm décor and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway and panoramic views of the golf course. My suite was cozy and the décor had a French flavour. 

The tower Rises 27 stories above lovely sprawling grounds and gardens. It was thrilling to look down to see all of this beauty. There are 244 deluxe guestrooms inclusive of 76 junior suites and 14 suites. Any traveler seasoned or otherwise would delight in staying in the tower rooms.Boca Beach Club: This luxury boutique hotel combines a sleek, modern, chic, clean, decor with a strong European influence without losing the style and spirit of South Florida, (led by noted London-based interior designer Fiona Thompson of Richmond International). The spectacular brand new Beach Club, is at the very edge of the Atlantic Ocean, and has 212 alluring, custom-designed rooms including nine ocean vista suites. 

The club has an open, fresh, contemporary feel to it wotj white walls and chrom furnishings. I enjoyed the unique opportunity to experience a panoramic ocean view right below my window and the half mile of private beach that I enjoyed frolicking in barefoot, and its colorful cabanas.The Cloister:Built in 1926 and newly refreshed, the signature centre of the Resort and Club world, are the ultra comfortable guest rooms that are located in the historic section of the resort.

They have a soft blend of classic elegance and modern amenities with a Spanish-Mediterranean-style art and architecture décor with Moorish and Gothic influences enveloped in historic charm, style, sensibility and conveniences.

The cloisters are set amid lush hidden tropical gardens, barrel tile roofs, archways, ornate columns, finials, intricate mosaics, fountains and beamed ceilings of ornate cypress. The Cloister has 359 guest rooms and suites where historical ambiance blends flawlessly with modern comforts and touches. This is a very unique part of the resort.Private Residence Bungalows:Here would be the most ideal place in the resort for a longer stay, especially with a family. It has a casual, easy-going residential-style accommodation with the luxury of a first class hotel. There are 60 fully furnished, two-bedroom apartments, located on the edge of the resort’s rolling fairways and manicured greens, which is particularly nice for the avid golfers. These private residences are also furnished with full modern kitchens.P.S. I slept like a baby in the Luxurious Italian bedding, featuring Filidoro linens in all of the accommodations in the resort.Spa Palazzo:                                                                   Spa Palazzo, not only defines luxury, but demonstrates opulence, extravagance and lavish pampering.The spa is dramatically styled after the ambience of Spain’s legendary Alhambra Palace.

The ritual baths are inspired by Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon’s search for the mystical fountain that could cure illness and restore youth.

The 50,000-square-foot Spa Palazzo features 44 treatment rooms, a luxurious wet room, palatial gardens and a vast menu of treatments. I must admit, I spent a lot of time spoiling myself here. Keeping Fit:

There are three state-of-the-art fitness centers filled with all the latest equipment featuring a full complement of cardiovascular and weight training equipment, exercise studio, and a variety of aerobic and toning classes. Thank goodness as you will be spending much needed time here if you want to splurge in all of the restaurants and believe me when I tell you that, you will want to splurge.Dining: The numerous dining options at the Boca Raton Resort and Club. With seasoned talents of more than 19 chefs in 18 on-site kitchens and bakeries, the Resort & Club’s has a veteran culinary team. Under the direction of Executive Chef Andrew Roenbeck, there is diversified, innovative menus in its 16 dining and entertainment venues, including room service for more than 1,000 guest accommodations, banquet service for an average of 1,800 guests per day, and a private club dining room. Morimoto Sushi Bar:Masaharu Morimoto of “Iron Chef” fame opened this elegant Sushi Bar. The distinctive décor, inspired by an ocean theme, features three sushi chef stations and 32 seats. The sushi master’s unique cuisine is characterized by his distinctive Japanese roots and colorful combinations of ingredients. Morimoto beer, sochu, sake and specialty martinis are also served. This is a perfect dining spot for the sushi lover.Serendipity:This restaurant is the delightful eating stop for a lighter, causal, fun dining experience. Serendipity is New York City’s legendary, exciting, dessert restaurant (remember the films Serendipity and One Fine Day, well they were filmed here) and is now in Boca.

With their world-famous Frozen Hot Chocolate (an absolute must, so forget about the calories), ice cream sprinkled with candy morsels, Willy Wonka-like treats, yummy fries, chili, sandwiches, and a family-friendly menu will not only please your children but make you feel like a child again as well. Whimsical, light and carefree, the décor has a playful color scheme with ice cream and candy colors with seating for 47. Serendipity is one big YUM! I adore this place.Palm CourtConceived by French artist-architect Thierry Despont, the Palm Court is a sophisticated and energetic space that achieves masterful architectural function and form. Renovations of the Palm Court include a complete redesign of the once open-air space into an area covered by a transparent roof. With a colorful courtyard design and natural landscaping, the spectacular Palm Court is a really cool setting to enjoy cocktails, light fare menu and nightly entertainment. Cielo:This is one of my favorite restaurants in the resort. The stunning intimate, contemporary, chic, and sophisticated restaurant is located on the 27th floor of the Tower which overlooks a spectacular panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and the Intercostals. Michelin-star rated Chef, Angela Hartnett, one of the most high profile women in the restaurant world and a partner of Gordon Ramsay, launched her first U.S. restaurant at the Boca Raton Resort & Club.

This is one of my favorite restaurants in the world. You know this is an exceptional and unique place the moment you step out of the elevator into its spectacular dramatic setting featuring a glass illuminated floor. I was treated like a princess and catered to the whole evening by the charming general manager Andy Patton, my classy server Rafael Camacho, and the elegant assistant manager Roberto Colombi for which I am grateful.The bar is backed with a frosted glass wine rack with floating wine bottles and an onyx bar top, a Chef’s Table and cocktail bar serves Spanish-style tapas to those looking for a lighter menu. I felt so cozy and comfortable dining the whole evening sitting in the Alcove curved banquette seating with soft furry pillows and shimmering curtains.The menu is strongly influenced by Angela’s Italian roots, which was great with me as I loved everything I experienced. For starters; I suggest the Foie gras torchon. The handmade tortelli of oven roasted pumpkin was divine as was the signature dish of penne pasta Bolognese which was a celebration of Italian bold flavours for my taste buds.For the entrée: The trio of duck, the oven roasted fillet of beef, and the veal tenderloin  were all sensational and presented as beautifully and creatively as it tasted.Desert: The rum panna cotta, the Bailey’s crème brulee and the dark chocolate ganache will end your evening in heaven.P.S. don’t forget to sample one of their specialty drinks and vast selection of wines from around the world.Lucca:Lucca, conceived as a “modern Tuscan villa,” seems to celebrate the essence and spirit of the Mediterranean. It evokes the heart of “comfort” food, landscape, colors and architecture of northern Italy ’s romantic region.Named after Italy ’s famed walled city, the restaurant features water views and impressive styling, a 27-foot-wide arched open hearth, and an exhibition kitchen with a wood-burning oven framed by a hand-glazed, ceramic-tile mural. Lucca’s private Chef’s Table dining room are appointed with hand-blown glass chandeliers, rich woods and textured fabrics to create genuine, relaxing, Tuscan-style dining. Old Homestead Steak House Established in 1868 in New York ’s Meatpacking District, Old Homestead features an impressive menu of beef and an award-winning collection of wines, and is a longtime favorite of locals. One of the restaurant’s trademarks is their unique aging process, which calls for a three-week dry aging of beef with a special blend of herbs, followed by a week of wet aging, resulting in what are often called the industry’s top steaks. If you are a vegetarian, or just not in the mood for meat, Old Homestead has a large selection of seafood dishes such as the restaurant’s Titanic Shrimp.

I enjoyed a most memorable lunch at the steak house. I totally recommend the Avocado stuffed with lobster salad, so yummy and a vision in-and-of-itself, just to look at. The tasty and tender, perfectly cooked filet mignon with fries was succulent as well. To end your dining occasion, go with the chocolate cake and or the various soufflés…The CathedralI felt so welcomed and pampered in grand style at the Resort & Club’s original Old-World formal dining room, overlooking breathtaking views of the Intracoastal. A breakfast buffet extraordinaire is prepared in this regal historic setting as well, a spectacular array of hundreds of delectable cold and hot entrees, fruits, salads, cereals, fresh baked breads, pastries, and made-to-order omelets and waffles. SeaGrille RestaurantCasual, comfortable, yet chic, The SeaGrille overlooks  the Atlantic Ocean from the third-floor lobby level of the Beach Club, this new restaurant, with both indoor and outdoor seating, is a mix of fine dining and casual elegance featuring outstanding wines by the glass, fresh fish, seasonal soups and salads. Casual DiningGazebo Bar & Grill:  Open-air poolside bar serves light fare and specialty drinks daily; children’s menu available.Mulligan’s:  With views of the rolling greens and the 18th hole, this is a sporty outdoor snack bar and a perfect spot for light breakfast, lunch and beverages after a round of golf or a game of tennis.The Grille Room: Ideal place to relax and enjoy sandwiches, soups and salads.Beaches Bar and Café Here is where you can enjoy the sun and just hang out just steps from the Atlantic Pool and the ocean beyond. I enjoyed many cold drinks and yes many cocktails here as well as some sandwiches, but there are also salads, hot dogs and burgers.Nearby, are more fun activities to partake in as well; At Royal Palm Polo Grounds, there is weekly polo January through April. Cultural attractions include the Boca Raton Museum of Art and the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens . Eco-tourism adventures include airboat rides through the Everglades, hands-on interactive displays at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center , and a variety of parks and beaches.Don’t’ forget to check out the Resort & Club's fine collection of shops and boutiques. I know I did a little too much checking out myself.Also available to guests is state-of-the-art office equipment including computers, modem usage, laser printers and cellular phones and complete FedEx, Kinko’s Business Center . A team of information technology technicians offer 24-hour service to guests needing Internet, computer and telecommunications assistance.Laundry and valet, room service, concierge, beauty salon, barber shop, valet parking and  transportation desk, safe deposit boxesFor more info visit: www.waldorfastoriacollection.com.Verdict:  I loved this resort and rate it an A+.  It is the total fun in the sun package tied up in the classiest and most charming bow.For reservations, call the Boca Raton Resort & Club at (888) 495-BOCA or (561) 447-3000, or contact your travel professional. Information is also available on the Resort & Club’s Web site: www.bocaresort.com.

Boca Raton Resort and Club

Boca Raton Resort and Club

Boca Raton Resort and Club

A landscaped beach front hotel. Review by Ramy Salameh

A sweeping palm-fringed drive takes you down towards the canopied entrance of the Ritz Carlton Sharm El Sheik. Concierge staff greets new guest arrivals with traditional drum instruments before they enter the voluminous marbled and colonnaded reception floor. Stepping down behind the reception desk, stately furnishings create numerous sophisticated seating alcoves to enjoy evening drinks from the adjoining, modern and well stocked bar.The hotel is equipped with 321 guest rooms including 35 suites and 38 Ritz Carlton club level rooms. At club level the personalised service, understanding of visitor needs and overall attention to detail, encourages loyalty with guests returning year-on-year. Club level remains a haven of calm for the discerning traveller looking for resort facilities.

The private club lounge is a bolt-hole to retreat away from the heat of the midday sunshine and to indulge in one of five daily food presentations prepared for club guests. Starting with breakfast on a sun drenched veranda, followed by lunch, tea (with cream, jam and scones), hors d’oeuvres, sweets and finished off with liqueurs in the late evening. Rooms on this level feature king-size beds, 32-inch plasma screens, DVD players, and spacious marble bathrooms with individual shower and toilet rooms. Generous balconies with pool or sea views complete all the amenities on club level.A landscaped beach front of carved rocky inlets is dotted with straw parasols. Beach assistants buzz unobtrusively amongst guests, ordering drinks and ensuring loungers have the official yellow beach towels ready for another day of sun worship. Arabian style massage tents overlook the Red Sea and the hotel’s private reef is reached by a floating jetty protruding from the coast. Guests are treated to a colourful and lively submarine environment; so much part of the Sinai’s appeal is the diving and snorkelling opportunities below the azure waters in this part of the world. Red and white hibiscus flowers drape gloriously over the majority of white-washed balconies across the complex creating photogenic and appealing aspects in which to stroll. Manicured gardens and path edges lead guests towards the large main pool split into three sections offering a daily programme of activities with diving lessons in the dive pool at one end and water aerobics taking place at the other. By night a series of small lights follows the contours of the bridge that spans the main pool.In the basement of the main hotel building is a spa centre, with 12 treatment rooms including rooms for couples to enjoy dual treatments. All guests can enjoy the Jacuzzi, chill, steam and sauna rooms. A 24-hour fully equipped gym adjoins the spa.Under the expert stewardship of Executive Chef Jarrett Beaulieu, an eclectic mix of dining experiences can be enjoyed. Middle-eastern flavours can be tasted at ‘Fayrouz’, whilst ‘Blue Ginger’ takes guests on a culinary tour of the orient. The highlight is ‘La Luna’, an award winning Italian fine dining restaurant with a sophisticated, old school ambiance and furnishings. Floor to ceiling windows gives diners a feeling of eating alfresco, whilst the a la carte menu provides great choice for the discerning palate. Above and beyond the luxuries of the hotel complex, the level of service from the multi-lingual and multi-cultured staff is exemplary. All employees of the Ritz Carlton at all levels ensure guests are always greeted with a smile and the consistent desire to make your stay as pleasurable as possible. This alone marks out the Ritz Carlton Sharm El Sheik as a superior resort hotel for a diverse range of clients. More informtion about the Ritz CarltonFind more hotels in Sharm El Sheik here

Ritz Carlton Sharm El Sheik

Ritz Carlton Sharm El Sheik