Tag Archives: luxury hotel

Belmont Hotel Reminiscent of “Mad Men” Days

Hotel Belmont can be summed up in one word: retro. This hip, authentic boutique hotel overlooks downtown Dallas on the edge of Oak Cliff, which gives it spectacular views that feels like this place is set far apart from the crowd. A completely re-done motor lodge circa 194o’s, it’s modern and fresh without trying too hard or coming off too posh. Rooms are spread out between four buildings that include garden rooms, two-story lofts and bungalows.

You might feel as if you stepped into an episode of “Mad Men” when you drive up, but the cuddly bathrobes, Kiehl’s bath products, and outdoor heated pool will remind you that it’s modern day. The brightly colored BarBelmont and Smoke restaurant will beckon you out of your cozy room, and you can’t beat same-day laundry service and dry cleaning that is available to the stressed out traveler.

A few must-see areas are the views at sunset from the outdoor terrace, the relaxing spa-like pool and the people watching at BarBelmont. The entire property is aesthetically conscious and retro, and the Belmont Hotel does it better than anyone else.

Loews Santa Monica Screams California Dreamin’

It does not get much more California than this! Loews Santa Monica is upscale comfort on par with the standards of Loews’ luxurious collection of hotels. The pool’s view overlooking the beach and the Santa Monica Pier is reason enough to stay, but it’s pure bliss to cozy up to the fire pit and enjoy the sunset as the pier’s bright carnival lights shine against the changing sky, all with an unbelievable soundtrack of live crashing waves.

Spacious rooms have beds that you melt right into with 300 thread count linens. Brilliantly bright, clean bathrooms come with plush robes perfect for post beaching. And all rooms are complete with a comfortable corner for reading the paper while enjoying the ocean breeze from your balcony.

The Loews is walking distance from all of Santa Monica’s highlights, including the 3rd Street Promenade, Main Street, the beach and Santa Monica Pier. Capitalize on the great location by riding along the beach boardwalk on a rented bike or by running the famous Santa Monica stairs. Santa Monica’s abundant delicacies and shopping adventures are endless- and conveniently nearby.

Crossing the Pond Not Needed for London Elegance

The London Hotel in West Hollywood is homey comfort with a lot more glitz. A gem in the LXR hotel collection, the London is home away from home for many out of town celebrities, some British, but most A-list. The gorgeous marble lobby is the first clue that guests are in for a very elegant stay. The staff amazingly not only knows most guests by name, but also by day two, they know their schedule and anticipate guests’ needs before they ask.

Rooms are plush with a fabulous modern flair, but without the modern stiffness. The rooftop pool feels like a fantasy faux grass backyard in the sky, complete with cabanas, a fire pit lounge area and plenty of chaises to go around.

Serving up Gordon Ramsay delights from the Boxcar downstairs, it is easy to blow a full day just at the hotel. Dogs are welcome and even have their own terrace park for running around, while owners watch or play a game of life size chess. Walking distance from the Sunset strip and easy access to Robertson, The London is in the middle of everything and perfect for a West Hollywood getaway.

The Joule Hotel Speed Dials Martinis & Neiman Marcus

Historic doesn’t always conjure up images of sleekness and sophistication, but in the case of the Joule Hotel in downtown Dallas, it does that and much more. With 129 masterful rooms and amenities like a full martini station and direct dial to Neiman Marcus from your guestroom, it’s easy to see why The Joule has quickly become popular.

Revamped from a 1920’s Neo-gothic building structure, the hotel now houses the PM Lounge, award winning-Charlie Palmer’s restaurant, wine bar, poolside café, and a sumptuous wine shop. The heated rooftop pool and high-tech fitness center are guest favorites, as well as the Joule Art Collection that can be seen throughout the property. This hotel may have historical roots, but modern charm and delicious dining rounds out an already spectacular landmark.