http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/schristopherll/ en Mon, 20 May 2013 15:17:23 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.luxurylink.com/community/images/misc/rss.jpg http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/schristopherll/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/schristopherll/cruising-golden-coast-1639/ Sat, 27 Apr 2013 15:57:30 GMT by Scott McGowan
Luxury Link Concierge ●

With California’s legendary sunshine pouring into to sunroofs and convertible tops, there’s no better way to see the Golden State than a good old-fashioned road trip. California has 840 miles of coastline to explore and there’s a bounty of can’t-miss stopping points along the way.

Pop some Beach Boys classics into the CD player and begin your journey at the bottom of the state – LoCal, as some even call it. San Diego is a gorgeous port city that features excellent nightlife, stunning beaches and breathtaking views. It’s the perfect combination of a city and sea, located in an area filled with history.

Perhaps no better example of that combination is the Keating Hotel by Pininfarina. Located in the heart of the buzzing Gaslamp District, the Keating Hotel is modern revelation of style in one of San Diego’s most historic buildings.

Built in 1890, the Keating building was at one time the home of the San Diego Trust & Savings Bank, and the bank’s underground vault is now being put to use as the Keating’s wine cellar. That’s just one example of the hotel’s cutting-edge design that the Pininfarina (designers of Maserati and Ferrari) were able to capture in their first hotel. The rooms and accommodations are an experience all to themselves as Jesseca Crissey, Marketing and PR Director for the Keating points out.

“The Keating’s 35 luxurious stanzas (Italian for “guestroom”) and suites, feature custom-designed furnishings and the loft-like accommodations feature the building’s original exposed brick walls, vaulted ceilings and an open floor plan with glass-walled bathrooms and oversized walk-in showers with overhead rain fixtures,” she said.

While in San Diego travelers can do everything from catching a Padres’ game at beautiful PetCo Park, sampling from the great restaurants and bars in the Gaslamp District or visiting Coronado Island. The view driving over the Coronado Bridge is one of the most beautiful in California; be sure to drive back to the city at night and take in the skyline, especially under a full moon.

After experiencing all that San Diego has to offer it’s time to hop up Interstate 5 to the place where dreams are made and stars are born…Los Angeles! While this metropolis is vast, guests in search of Southern California’s beach culture can find no better place to rest and recharge than the elegant and simply-stated Oceana Beach Club Hotel. Perfectly situated in a wonderful residential area, guests of the Oceana will get the true feel of living in the idyllic seaside city of Santa Monica.

The Oceana is within walking distance to the world-famous Santa Monica Pier and only a short drive to Hollywood. Guests can experience their own “movie star” treatment laying around the hotel’s heart-shaped pool and then take a yoga class to get centered. After a restful morning of sun and stretching guests can take their complimentary beach cruisers and go for a ride either along the coast or into town for lunch at one of LA’s hidden gem restaurants. Make sure not to be caught staring though as Montana Avenue has been known to be a perfect lunch location for A-list celebrities.

Once the fun in sun has ended, make sure and get back to the Oceana in time for dinner at Tower 8, with a menu created by two-star Michelin chef Josiah Citrin.

“As a Santa Monica native and avid surfer, my respect for the ocean extends to the surrounding community I call home. I have created a menu at Tower 8 that was inspired by the seasons and local colors that make up Southern California. It is a taste of how I enjoy cooking for my guests at my own home,” Citrin said.

Speaking of home, that is the feel that guests can expect at this gorgeous art-deco style property. Open and spacious rooms are filled with the luxury of Missoni throw pillows and oversized Frette bath sheets. The Oceana only has 70 guest rooms and suites so guests are treated with personalized care and service that normally comes when staying with friends.

(Ed. If looking for any specific recommendations in the greater Los Angeles area, feel free to call our Luxury Link Concierge team. We’re headquartered in LA and we love showing off our knowledge of the coolest places to go and things to see.)

Next, it’s time to put on some sunglasses and criuse the legendary Pacific Coast Highway. You’ll drive through scenic Malibu and be treated to a panoramic view of cliffs and coastline. About an hour north you’ll find yourself entering the quaint hamlet of Santa Barbara.

The red Spanish style roofs can be seen as you approach what is widely considered one of California’s most beautiful cities. Travelers will want to drive straight up into the hills – called The Riviera by locals – to their next luxurious property, El Encanto.

El Encanto is equally bathed history and sunshine, but what makes this property really sparkle is its recent multi-million-dollar restoration. Seven years in the making, the project is finally completed and the property celebrated its grand reopening in March 2013.

El Encanto features 92 rooms and suites that are individually designed as California style bungalows and with hardwood floors, plantation-style shutters and bespoke amenities. As General Manager Laura McIver says, El Encanto offers guests a feel of privacy and luxury that is unmatched.

“Each bungalow has its own private patio or garden, where guests can choose to dine al fresco or enjoy a romantic sunset in complete seclusion. Telescopes throughout the grounds also allow guests to take in the magnificent sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean for which the hotel is famed,” she said.

Santa Barbara is the quintessential resort town, with a compact, walkable downtown area full of art galleries, boutiques and fine dining. It’s the Southern California equivalent of a Norman Rockwell painting.

“One thing you’ll want to try and do is the art walk on the beach on Sundays. It’s free and there is gorgeous art to see and buy from local artists,” says Luxury Link Marketing Manager Zoe Bo-Linn, a former Santa Barbara resident, .

“I also recommend checking out the new Urban Wine tour downtown and pairing that with the Art Walk to make a Sunday to remember.”

After a restful evening in your bungalow guests can get their day started with breakfast and a trip to the spa. Make sure and request a late check-out to maximize your time, unless you want to get an early start on the final part of your Golden State tour…

Big Sur is the ultimate immersion-in-nature destination. Located about three hours north of Santa Barbara along windy Highway 1, this is the ideal place to finish your California coastal trip. You’ll discover beauty and serenity in the redwood-covered hills perched high above the rocky coastline that spans nearly 100 miles. Camping is incredibly popular in Big Sur, but being Luxury Link, we recommend you indulge in the rustic luxury of Ventana Inn and Spa.

The Ventana features only 60 guest rooms and suites and has everything you’ll need to make the transition to becoming one with the natural environment. The property features complimentary yoga classes, pilates classes, guided property walks and Japanese hot baths.

However what travelers will be most taken with are the legendary views from atop the mountain. Guests can gaze out over the Pacific and feel like they are on top of the world, and at the edge of it all at the same time.

When in Big Sur, bring – or rent – a bicycle and go for a trail ride, admire the towering trees, and find a spot where the forest clears and you'll see the amazing and expansive ocean. It is a truly breathtaking experience and a view that stays with you long after you leave.

Between hiking, mountain biking and visiting Big Sur’s hidden beach coves, you’re bound to get hungry. What better way to fully immerse yourself in the moment and the location than by eating from Ventana’s organic, locally grown menu?

After making stops all over the California coast you’ll want to take a moment and savor in the memories you’ve created. You’ve seen big cities and bright lights and experienced true natural beauty that the imagination can’t compete with, but like all the travelers who’ve “gone west” before you, you’ll make the California coast your own. ]]> schristopherll http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/schristopherll/cruising-golden-coast-1639/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/schristopherll/luxury-links-roman-holiday-1625/ Sat, 13 Apr 2013 16:12:22 GMT by Scott McGowan
Luxury Link Concierge ●

"All roads lead to Rome" is a familiar saying, and at this historic moment in time there may not be a better opportunity to visit the glorious Italian capital. With Pope Francis’ recent appointment as the 266^th pontiff and a stunning new hotel opening this month in the shadows of the Vatican - combined with some R&R on the nearby Tyrrhenian Sea - you have all the makings of a classic, Audrey Hepburn-esque Roman Holiday.

Travelers looking to catch a glimpse of the new Holy Father should book a Luxury Link stay at L’Angolo di San Pietro. This five-star boutique hotel is located literally steps from the Vatican City walls and has already hosted cardinals from around the world who were involved in the confirmation process.

Opening its doors to the public in April 2013 L’Angolo di San Pietro is positioned to re-define the luxury hotel experience in Rome. L’Angolo’s General Manager Claudia Giulani explains the uncompromising service afforded to guests.

“This is an ‘out of the box’ concept of luxury hospitality! ‘Pamper the Guest’ means to not let them feel like they are at home, but feel better than at home. We want them to think they can stay with us any time.”

The hotel features just 10 rooms, and all but two are junior suites or suites. Each room offers modern furniture and bold, regal design. The bathrooms are made of marble and the hotels bedding and linen choices are exactly that… choices!

“We give our guests the option to choose a wide range of pillows, bed linens and bathroom amenities before they arrive.” Giulani explained. “Each room has a wine cellar and we offer the guest a selection of wines to choose from and will have them chilled upon arrival.”

Considering L’Angolo di San Pietro features 24-hour butler assistance and chauffeur service to all points of interest in Rome, there is no reason to not get out and soak in the history dripping from every corner of Bella Roma. For guests who are more interested in navigating their own adventure, they can use the hotel-issued Vespa 50 or Fiat 500 to cruise the cobblestoned streets.

An ideal day in Rome might include in-room breakfast from the San Pietro Lounge - perhaps on your private patio overlooking the Vatican – followed by a private tour of St. Peter’s Basillica. If this day happens to be a Wednesday, you may even have the opportunity to experience the Pope’s weekly public mass. Of course, Rome’s other attractions, from the Roman Colosseum and Forum to the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain are easily-accessible in this eminently-walkable city.

However, no trip to Italy would be complete though without a visit to its glorious coastline.

Located just a mere 40 minutes from Rome by car or train is the exquisite waterfront property, La Posta Vecchia. The hotel overlooks the Tyrrheian Sea and is built on remains from one of the world’s most powerful empires.

History and beauty surrounds you at La Posta Vecchia - part of the exclusive Relais & Chateaux hotel collection - some of which guests may be surprised to discover.

Before it was a five-star, award-winning independent hotel, the grounds stole the heart of American investor, oil tycoon and patron of the arts, J. Paul Getty. In 1960 Getty purchased the property and restored it to its original grandeur—a grandeur which originated in 1640 when it was built by Prince Orsini.

Chiara Soldatini, Marketing Specialist for La Posta Vecchia, is quick to point out that the history of the property leads to a completely original guest experience.

“The furniture, objects and artwork have been acquired from royal homes from around the world and brought to La Posta Vechia by J. Paul Getty, and can only be found here.” she said.

The historic hotel boasts 19 guest rooms and features all the amenities fit for modern royalty. Both active and restful guests will find their needs satisfied as the hotel features everything from cooking classes to canoeing, indoor and outdoor spa treatments, a world –class art collection, personal trainers and even a helipad for jet-setting guests.

What should not be missed is dinner at The Cesar, La Posta Vecchia’s Michelin-starred restaurant. Soldatini has her preference when it comes to a must try meal: “Without any doubt the, Sicilian prawns and foie gras with fig sauce and cocoa beans prepared by our chef Michelino Gioia.”

Before departing, live the life of a Roman aristocrat while taking a swim in the stunning indoor pool, gazing out into the Mediterranean. Take a moment to envision the world that once was, while surrounded by the splendor it already is, as you complete one unforgettable Roman Holiday.

]]> schristopherll http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/schristopherll/luxury-links-roman-holiday-1625/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/schristopherll/spend-spring-sunshine-state-1616/ Mon, 01 Apr 2013 23:18:51 GMT By Scott McGowan
Luxury Link Concierge ●

No matter where you are or where you’re from, the images of spring and sunshine go hand in hand. For travelers looking to get a jump-start on the warm weather there’s no better lace to start than Florida. Just look at its official nickname - The Sunshine State offers the best vitamin-D enriching activities from near-tropical beaches and exciting nightlife in Miami to the countless attractions of Orlando. Of course, there might even be some “magic” in the form of “kingdoms”, or professional sports to enjoy along the way…

The city of Orlando and surrounding Orange County offers all the luxury and comfort of a major metropolis: fabulous nightlife, excellent dining, and top tier accommodations. Grand Bohemian Hotel is Orlando’s premiere boutique hotel and serves as a central, cultural hub for the city.

When guests arrive they are greeted by an excellent staff and an expansive art collection. The hotel features an on-site gallery so the moment guests enter the property they find themselves enveloped in a sophisticated world of sight and sound. Most nights feature live entertainment and the Grand Bohemian is noted for its Jazz Sunday Brunch.

The Concierge Level guest rooms are located on the 14^th and 15^th floors, giving you fantastic views of downtown Orlando. Rooms on this level feature custom Java wood furniture and access to the Concierge Lounge. The Lounge provides continental breakfast and hors d’oeuvres in the evening.

When asked how travelers should spend their first 24 hours in Orlando when staying at the Grand Bohemian Hotel, Monika Morrobel, Regional Revenue Manager offers the perfect insights.

“After check-in, take in some Florida sun on the rooftop pool deck, before enjoying a leisurely dinner at the award-winning Boheme Restaurant,” she said. “Attend an Orlando Magic basketball game, a music concert or theater performance blocks away at the new Amway Center, before returning for some late-night drinks and music at the Bosendorfer Lounge. In the morning, don’t miss the Orlando Museum of Art or take a stroll around downtown’s Lake Eola park with a popular farmer’s market held on Sundays.”

If you’re so inclined, you’re only minutes from all of Orlando’s famous amusement and theme parks, and of course, Orlando’s world-class golfing. There’s a reason so many PGA Tour professionals call the Orlando area home…

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After experiencing the Bohemian lifestyle in Orlando, it’ll be time to get some much-needed rest and relaxation on South Florida’s famous coastline. White-sand beaches, warm water and unapologetic pampering create the perfect landing spot for travelers looking to recharge and get re-energize.

Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach – in Sunny Isles, just north of Miami – is a dream spot for anyone looking for pure luxury located right on the coast. Guests can walk out of the resort and on to the sand at Acqualina’s own private beach lined with iconic red lounge chairs that look out onto the Atlantic Ocean.

While you’re only 20 minutes from South Beach and the melting-pot of Miami, travelers can expect to feel as though they’ve entered a Mediterranean Villa. Acqualina is a AAA Five-Diamond Resort with rooms featuring imported marble, double sinks in the bathroom and glass-enclosed showers.

Besides the natural beauty that surrounds the resort guests can expect service levels that rival any resort domestically or internationally. Director of Sales Ann Palmer classifies the level of service – and staff connection to their guests – as familial.

“[We] offer impeccable service throughout the length of the guest’s stay. From the moment the guest walks through the door, every detail is personalized to make the experience more memorable and relaxing. The resort feels like a second home to many and the staff becomes a part of the family,” Palmer said.

Ultimate relaxation can be found at the acclaimed 20,000-square foot ESPA oceanfront spa. Guests would be hard-pressed to find a treatment the facility can’t provide. It features a private spa pool, heated jet pool with Roman waterfall, crystal steam rooms, ice fountains, Finnish saunas, experience showers and relaxation rooms. Your Luxury Link vacation experience includes $40 in daily spa credits, per person, good towards facials or body treatments.

After you’ve been rejuvenated there is no better way to end your day than with a romantic
beachfront dinner. Against the backdrop candlelit table and the sounds of the sea, Executive Chef Christopher Blum showcases his inventive cuisine. A top choice is the fresh Mediterranean snapper, seasoned with paprika and lemon served with sautéed fennel. In addition to the beachfront dining option, there are three on-site restaurants.

Whether a cultural city experience or beachfront breeze, Florida offers everything you could want in a vacation experience. No matter which you choose, Luxury Link will gladly accommodate a stay at either Orlando’s Grand Bohemian Hotel or Acqualina Resort and Spa on the Beach near Miami, and rest assured you’ll get plenty of vitamin D from the warm rays of the Sunshine State.

]]> schristopherll http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/schristopherll/spend-spring-sunshine-state-1616/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/schristopherll/wine-tasting-edge-columbia-cliff-villas-1586/ Thu, 14 Mar 2013 23:13:06 GMT by Scott McGowan
Luxury Link Concierge ●

For travelers looking to combine a world-class wine tasting experience with all the wonders of Mother Nature, Columbia Cliff Villas in Hood River, Ore., provides the perfect match.

Just an hour east of Portland, this relaxing retreat sets its guests amid towering pines that scent some of the freshest air in the U.S. Nearby Mount Hood National Park features an astounding 77 waterfalls accessible by hiking or biking trails. For guests who’d rather focus on the all-important “R’s” – rest and relaxation – simply walk outside of Columbia Cliff Villas and see a waterfall located right on site.

Something most travelers may not know is that the Columbia River Gorge area features a spectacular wine tasting scene. Luxury Link guests at Columbia Cliff are treated to wine tasting vouchers valid at four local wineries. The staff is more than happy to make recommendations and help set up reservations. Wineries include Cathedral Ridge Winery, Hood River Winery and Marchesi Vineyards.

The hotel itself offers guests a unique in-room experience that Jennifer Gulizia, Director of Sales and Marketing, describes as full of simple elegance.

“Our condos feature hard wood floors, slate fireplaces, spacious family rooms, gourmet kitchens, luxury linens, Aveda bath products and so much more,” Gulizia said.

The property features 1-3 bedroom adjoining suites that are perfect for everything from romantic getaways and honeymoons to family reunions and business trips. All of the Luxury Link-offered room categories feature river views.

Depending on the season guests can find themselves on the nearby Indian Creek Golf Course or hitting the slopes at Mount Hood Meadows Ski Resort. The town of Hood River itself also features a variety of water sports like kayaking, white water rafting. From their hotel rooms, guests can view one of the preeminent sites in the country for kite surfing.

After a busy afternoon of outdoor adventures and/or wine tasting, you’ll want to explore the great dining variety Hood River has to offer. For those looking for local fare and place relax and see live music or watch the game, Celilo Restaurant is the place to be. For fine dining you’ll want to make a reservation at Stonehedge Gardens.

No matter what else you have planned during your stay at Colombia Cliff Villas, Luxury Link’s Merchandising Manager Zoe Bo-Linn says exploring downtown Hood River cannot be missed.

“It’s a beautiful and quaint downtown area. You can walk around and check out the restaurants, shops and of course, the breweries!”

]]> schristopherll http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/schristopherll/wine-tasting-edge-columbia-cliff-villas-1586/ http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/schristopherll/destination-weddings-luxury-link-way-1571/ Sat, 09 Feb 2013 02:22:35 GMT Attachment 1377 (http://www.luxurylink.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=1377)*by Scott McGowan Luxury Link Concierge... by Scott McGowan
Luxury Link Concierge
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Destination weddings are now the fastest-growing trend in the world of wedding planning. One out of every four couples is choosing to exchange nuptials at a dream destination according to a recent survey. The benefits of combining the big day with a fantastic trip are as numerous as the places you can choose to say “I do.”

True love – the type that leads to life time commitment – is all about finding the right match. The same is true when choosing the location for your destination wedding. It’s important to select an environment that matches you as a couple. Your style, your sensibilities, your taste and even your hobbies should be factored into this once in a lifetime decision. The sunning on the beaches of Hawaii or the Caribbean, an adventure in Mexico, wine tasting in Napa or even hitting the slopes in Colorado are incredible vacation experiences you can tie-in to tying the knot.

Napa Valley
Napa Valley in Northern California offers luxurious accommodations in relaxed and refined settings, with a fantastic glass of red or white on hand at all times. You and your guests will be surrounded by the beauty of lush vineyards while being treated to fine dining and comfort at the region’s charming inns and estates.

For your destination wedding, Luxury Link recommends Meadowood Napa Valley.

Located in the heart of wine country and owned by two legendary vintners, the Meadowood offers guests the cozy feel of a bed and breakfast while boasting the conveniences of a major metropolitan hotel.

A typical day for a guests could include a wine tasting tour at local wineries, followed by a round of golf on the inn’s nine-hole course. After some time on the links, you’ll have worked up quite the appetite and that’s where Meadowood really shines. There are two restaurants on the property, including The Restaurant at Meadowood, recently named the No. 2 Most Important Restaurant of 2013 by Bon Appetit magazine.

On the big day, Meadowood Napa Valley offers an unrivaled experience. A gorgeous outdoor wedding is centered on an aisle covered with while flower petals. Tables and chairs are set amongst hanging Chinese style lamps where everyone will have an elegant memory of the beautiful ceremony and party.

The staff will turn the property into the backyard wedding that you see in movies and always think aren’t possible in real life. It will truly be a magical evening.

The perfect way to end a full day of golf, spa treatments, wine tasting, delicious food and your dream wedding is of course to retire to your room that features a wood-burning fireplace, flat screen TV and what Meadowood Director of Marketing Ann Marie Conover simply describes as “sumptuous linens.”

The property features 85 guest rooms so no matter your wedding party’s size, there will be plenty of room to roam.

Hawaii
Hawaii is primarily known for its white-sand beaches, great SCUBA diving and surfing and of course fantastically tropical weather year-round. But often-overlooked by Aloha State visitors is the peace and tranquility of its pristine natural setting.

Hawaii Island Retreat offers the ultimate escape from the stresses of life and the truly green paradise of a world unspoiled. Located on 50 acres of the Big Island’s north shore, Hawaii Island Retreat prides itself on being the state’s premiere ‘green’ resort.

All of the cuisine served is local and organic and a good portion is grown on-site in the Retreat’s gardens. Guests are even treated to gardening and cooking classes as part of their visit to learn to live better with and from the environment.
Immerse yourself in the Big Island’s natural wonders by zip-lining across lush forests and hiking along its gorgeous coastline. Hawaii Island Retreat combines eco-friendly living with world-class relaxation and rejuvenation. Their rooms are known as “sanctuaries of peace” according to owner Jeanne Sunderland.

“The generous rooms are free of clocks, internet and TV creating a place in which to completely relax.”

With you and your guests completely well-rested, your ceremony could be held anywhere on the grounds depending on your desired backdrop. Hawaii Island Retreat is perched on a cliff above stunning coastline and sits amid a lush, tropical forest; either is a dramatic setting to say “I do”, and wedding photos will pop right off the page. Guests can then dance the night away in the luxurious courtyard underneath the star-lit Hawaiian sky.

The entire property can be rented out for weddings, give the couple and their guests the most relaxing and peaceful experience together.

Mexico
The ultimate fun-in-the-sun getaway can be found on white-sand beaches of Mexico’s Pacific coast. Las Alamandas offers traditional Spanish and Southern Californian architecture with bright beach front suites that allow the ocean breeze to inhabit every inch of the living space.

Surrounded by four miles of coastline, Las Alamandas is the perfect destination to host your wedding and then stay for your honeymoon. It’s a private estate that features everything from horseback riding and private boat tours to a fantastic spa services and private Jacuzzis. Marketing Director Manuel Pomares also recommends taking a kayak out in the lagoon and seeing over 100 different species of birds in the morning before heading to the Tamarindo Golf Course for a quick 18 holes and lunch. All of this followed by a sunset dinner on the beach makes for full day to remember leading up to the day you’ll always remember.

Imagine your ceremony on the sand with the turquoise-blue Pacific Ocean glistening in the background. After the nuptials have been said, guests can retire back to their rooms, and change for the celebration. Keep those bathing suits close by, because after the food and dancing, they may be enticed to take the party into Las Alamandas’ pools and hot tubs late into the night.

Another major plus for guests looking for convenience and exclusivity, the property boasts their own air strip so guests can fly in directly from Puerto Vallarta or Manzanillo. And with only 15 rooms, it’s the perfect estate to rent out completely for your wedding party.

Colorado
The fresh air and picturesque mountain backdrop of Aspen is the perfect wedding destination for any couple looking to connect with America’s majestic beauty. Skiing in winter is legendary and when the snow melts there isn’t a more incredible backdrop than Colorado’s purple mountain majesties.

Hotel Jerome is a classic Aspen hotel – recently re-opened after extensive renovation – and featuring everything you’d want for a 360-degree wedding experience. Located in downtown Aspen, the first place you and your guests will want to stop at is the J-Bar. You’ll relax in the lounge where none other than literary legend Hunter S. Thompson was known to have a drink and conversation with locals and tourists alike.

The hotel boasts two other restaurants that are both highly regarded in the Aspen culinary scene, as well as its renowned on-site Auberge Spa. Most impressive about the Hotel Jerome though, is the setting for your wedding ceremony.

The Grand Ballroom is the only above-ground ballroom in Aspen, and its 16-foot ceilings allow the room to be filled with natural light like no other place in town, plus incredible views of the Rocky Mountains while dancing the night away with friends and family. Depending on the season you may want to make use of the Terrace, adjacent to the fully-heated pool where your guests can have drinks and hors d’oeuvres while the wedding party takes pictures.

If you’ve always dreamt of that winter wonderland wedding, Hotel Jerome will assist each of your guests with transportation to the local ski resorts, because it wouldn’t be a trip to Aspen without a few runs down the mountain.

Now until Feb. 20, enter our "Build Your Snowboard" Pinterest contest to win a stay at Hotel Jerome!

Caribbean
Turquoise water and blue skies. Powdery sand between your toes. bride in a pristine white wedding dress and her gushing husband-to-be. Destination weddings in the Caribbean will wow as you say your vows. What can be better than saying “I do” and then taking your first dip as a married couple in the perfectly tepid waters of the Caribbean Sea?

One of the best-value islands in the Caribbean is the Dominican Republic, which features the world-class resort Casa Colonial Beach and Spa. Quite appropriately, the property is located in Puerto Plata which is affectionately called "La Novia del Atlántico" ("Bride of the Atlantic")!

Sarah Garcia tastefully designed this resort to accentuate the best the Dominican has to offer: lush, tropical surroundings and breathtaking views of the ocean from virtually every vantage point. Perhaps the best feature of the hotel is the rooftop pools and cabanas that allow guests to experience the best of both worlds, all while seeing across and above the island.

Couples can choose to say “I do” on rooftop overlooking the island, or down on the beach. Everyone will surely want a delicious frozen drink in hand to toast the newlyweds or some wine from the Casa Colonial’s wine cellar. Then the party can go all night because a freshly prepared breakfast awaits in the morning along with a much-deserved trip to the spa.

Your guests won’t stop thanking you for the sublime accommodations and award-winning on site dining. Just make sure and tell everyone what time the ceremony is, because guests of Casa Colonial receive a discount at the Playa Dorada Golf course, which is an 18 hole, par-72 course that may inspire a few of your guests to play an extra round or two.

Guestrooms at Casa Colonial Beach & Spa feature private balconies; stepping out and breathing in the Caribbean ocean air will be the best way to start the first day of your lives together!

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