OVERVIEW of 1770 House
1770 House is a magnificently restored 200 year old white clapboard inn with black shutters, a white picket fence and lush gardens located in the heart of all the activity in East Hampton. An acclaimed restaurant, a cozy pub and luxurious rooms make this a very special weekend retreat.
The lobby area is wood paneled with a warming fireplace and comfortable antique chairs and couches. The downstairs pub has a bar and dining area with wood beamed ceilings and partially brick walls and the upstairs dining room is luxurious in beige and brown tones, wood beamed ceilings and a fireplace.
THE ROOMS at 1770 House
Rooms are appointed with period antiques, some with fireplaces and private entrances. All are air-conditioned and have flat screen TV’s. Beds have super soft Frette linens and plump duvets.
My favorite room is #4, with its own private entrance, fireplace, views to the side garden and Main Street, a separate study/dressing room, wood beamed ceilings and one of the most comfortable and luxurious beds I have ever slept in. The bathroom had reproduction bath fixtures, Molton Brown bath products and a killer shower with a pulsating/massaging shower head. Simple touches like Fuji water and fresh fruit, a simple, easy to use alarm clock, terry robes and a washcloth embroidered make-up help make this a very comfortable place to stay.
DINING at 1770 House
The restaurant is one of the most popular in the Hamptons and the casual Tavern is perfect when you just want something quick and easy. The restaurant is reviewed in our dining section.
RATES at 1770 House
From $925 Peak Season weekend.
WHAT OTHERS SAY About 1770 House
Wine Spectator Award Winning List
For sheer luxury, East Hampton’s 1770 House is tough to beat some of the eight guest rooms have fireplaces, and all have private baths. New York Magazine
PROMOTIONS at 1770 House
Click here for this property’s promotions
THE ROOMS at Allison Inn
foraged mushrooms, natural jus, spring herbs; Green garlic soup: smoked salt spring mussels, garlic chives, pickled shallots, crème fraîche; Pan roasted rack of lamb: lamb bacon, chickpea salad, cucumbers, yogurt mint dressing, zhug; Grilled heritage pork loin: Peruvian purple potato, pork belly confit agrodolce, shallot vinaigrette; Dark chocolate-pinot noir cake: cocoa nib granola, vanilla bean ice cream, espresso sauce; Berry pudding crumble: vanilla brioche custard, almond streusel crunch, Jory garden honey.
want my hotel to be like if I owned one. This place has personality in an age of minimalist and sterile accommodations. It reminds me of the charming Algonquin Hotel in New York City. Since purchasing the property in 1972, Ted Conklin has lovingly restored and maintained this little gem while building its reputation for great food and wine. A favorite of celebrities in the know whatever the season.
After dinner, take a stroll through the delightful little village and stop in one of the pubs for an after dinner drink. The perfect end to a day in the Hamptons.
Rooms feature ergonomic work space, a Keurig coffeemaker, free Wi-Fi and a minibar with welcome snacks and beverages on the house. Room options range from standard rooms at 310 sq feet to the Tower Suite with floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views of downtown Napa, dual sided fireplace and retractable glass walls that open to your private balcony. The suite is just shy of 1000 sq feet.
parfaits to the completely indulgent stuffed baguette French toast to cage-free egg preparations served with traditional accompaniments.
and loved it. They are very well done with service and amenities seen more often in hotels a class or two higher. Best of all they are very reasonably priced. Here we were greeted with a welcome cocktail, escorted to our room, asked which newspaper we would like in the morning and told there were complimentary drinks and snacks in the mini bar. The hotel is ideally located downtown, is pet-friendly
an MP3 docking station, alarm clock, radio and sound machine. There is a mini bar with complimentary non-alcoholic drinks and complimentary sweet and salty snack.
Southern made from locally grown produce and sustainable ingredients. Enjoy items like Fried Green Tomatoes, Pimento Deviled Eggs, Kurobuta Pork Chops, Truffled Shrimp & Grits and more.
named after the county of his wife’s birthplace in Ireland. The property changed hands many times over the years and much of the original land was sold off until 1987 when the current owners, the Molletts, purchased the home and its adjacent outbuildings. Following extensive and complete renovations, the home was opened as a four bedroom inn in the fall of 1988. Since then, the Molletts have renovated the outbuildings, expanded the number of rooms at the 24-acre site to 40 in its eleven outbuildings and have added an adjacent ballroom capable of serving 250.
worry – a wooden step stool rests near the bed), and a working, wood-burning fireplace – quite romantic, indeed. After dinner, we were rewarded with possibly the most comfortable and relaxing night’s sleep either of us has experienced!
explore the Pickwick Pub about which we’d heard stellar praise. We weren’t disappointed. It’s just about the coziest place on the planet featuring a roaring fireplace, a lovely, well-stocked bar (specializing in Scottish single malt whiskies), tartan wall coverings and tremendous hospitality.
pear and grapefruit. It was the perfect choice for our country baked oysters and artichoke with bacon & Parmesan cream starters. For our entrée, Mr. Ayrom suggested Silkwood, Red Duet (NV) a delightful 50/50 combination of cabernet sauvignon and syrah from Stanislaus County, in Modesto, California. It was truly delicious and a solid partner with the venison and veal entrees. Dinner service ended with a delectable and outsized Panache of Chef’s desserts. No calorie counting here!
Baker House 1650
green, with a king sized bed, love seat and ottoman, fireplace and Jacuzzi tub and Room #14, also overlooking the green, with dark walls, beamed ceilings, a queen bed, fireplace and claw footed tub. Other amenities include television, a sound machine, down comforters, big thick towels and L’Occitane toiletries.
to an honor bar. Have what you like and just write it down on a pad. Liquor, beer, wine, champagne and soft drinks and snacks are available 24 hours a day.
The wonderfully restored 1838 
covered hardwood floors, local art adorned the walls and there was a club chair and ottoman next to the fireplace. My High Boy 4 poster king bed was so luxurious, it enveloped me when I laid down in it. An antique armoire and dresser completed the elegant décor.
in the same room, the Garden or the Bar, where an intimate table for two is reserved for you. Mid-day brings fresh lemonade and sweet iced tea. High tea is served at 4pm and cocktails and hors d’ouevres at 6pm in the Bar. The day ends with complimentary port or brandy.
became a hub for the creative community and enjoyed visits from a diverse group of celebrities and artists like John and Elaine Steinbeck, Paul Newman, Art Garfunkel, Richard Kind, Jackson Pollock, Willem and Elaine de Kooning, Truman Capote, George Plimpton, and Kurt Vonnegut and more.
accommodations.
Warm and intimate with cozy seating (wing chairs inside, rocking and Adirondack outside) surround indoor and outdoor fireplaces.
Bang Shrimp, Roasted Organic Raised Roast Chicken, Brandt All Natural Steak Frites and more.
homes, 3 block pedestrian mall and the Cape May Lighthouse. It is a bustling town in the heart of the summer season, but equally as enchanting in the “off-season.”
area. The cottage has three bedrooms, a screened in porch, a gas fireplace, an outdoor fire pit, a patio with gas grill, an outdoor shower and a fantastic cook’s kitchen. Beds are draped in Belgian cotton linens and bathrooms feature Beach Plum bath products inspired by herbs found on the farm
produce, and garden herbs. Dine under the stars, or in their festive hoop house, depending on the weather. They are available weekends throughout the year and on Holidays and Special Occasions. All dinners are BYOB.
When we returned from dinner, there it was… a roaring fire in our firepit.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware is a bustling seaside resort overflowing with vacationers, but off-season, the pace slows and its real charm shows through. Casually browse the shops in town, stroll the isolated beach, enjoy a fireside drink…..just what you need to recharge the batteries.
with a sitting area, a private balcony, fireplace, two person Jacuzzi and a web bar. The pillow top bed had a rattan style head and foot board, luxury linens and a down comforter and pillows. The marble bath had natural toiletries, plump towels and silky robes. Access to the Club level is by a private elevator and there is a beautiful library with a fireplace, lots of reading material and complimentary drinks and snacks.
Breakfast is the only meal served at the Inn and it is provided by the popular local restaurant Porcini House. The delicious buffet includes fluffy scrambled eggs, smoked bacon, pancakes, oatmeal with vanilla and brown sugar, yogurt, fruit and pastries and muffins. On weekends a chef prepares omelets to order.
even larger. It overlooked the croquet lawn and had two sets of French doors onto two patios. The open floor plan had a sitting area with a couch, coffee table and two chairs. Nearby was a writing desk and across the room a small dining table with two chairs. A large limestone fireplace centered the room. The color palette was soothing beiges and grays, the décor a French country. The wonderful feather bed was dressed in Italian linens with goose down pillows and comforter.
Lucia Restaurant & Bar
Lodge
esteemed Dorchester Group of super luxury hotels. Steeped in history the hotel’s Polo Lounge has been the scene of many Hollywood deals and the intimate bungalows the home of many a celebrity tryst. From WC Fields to Katherine Hepburn to Frank Sinatra and Warren Beatty and the Beatles, the hotel has long been the playground of the rich and famous.
soft duvet. Oversized marble baths offer dual sinks, huge towels, a beautifully deep bathtub and separate shower. 
Garnish, Herb Fries; Tortilla Soup, Grilled Jidori Chicken, Queso Fresco, Green Onion, Avocado, Crispy Tortilla Strips; the McCarthy Salad, Romaine, Grilled Chicken, Organic Eggs, Beets, Tomatoes, Cheddar, Smoked Bacon, Avocado, Balsamic Vinaigrette; the Wagyu Burger, House-Ground Wagyu Chuck, Smoked Blue Cheese, Balsamic Onions, Arugula, Tomato, Chipotle Aioli. Keep in mind you are going here for the “experience.” If you look at the prices you’ll be on the next plane.
sparkling white fences, there’s a dazzling pond and Boathouse at the base of the Main complex hill, a wonderful farmhouse used as the appropriately named Farmhouse Spa and a delightful pavilion set on another pond and used for various functions.
bedroom homes. Interiors are designed by BF Interiors and feature rich fabrics, luxury linens, custom bath products and stunning artwork. All of the rooms are wonderfully comfortable, but the Cottage Suites are about 600 sq feet and have covered porches with rocking chairs, wood burning fireplaces, a King featherbed, large bathrooms with double vanities and a whirlpool bath. Oh my…
from The Barn. Blackberry Farm brings together a rare collection of artisans – the chef, the master gardener, the baker, the cheesemaker, the forager, the butcher, the preservationist, the restaurant manager, the sommelier.
whipped pecans, picked ramps, Marigold syrup, mushrooms and garden greens. And for dessert, Georgia Oil Oil Corn Cake with Spring citrus and Earl Grey.
Rates from $1.045 per night and include room for two, three meals for two per day. Three night minimum
Scotland. Complete with towers, turrets and gargoyles, the grand property served as the family’s summer and fall retreat where they entertained frequently in a lavish style befitting the times. These magnificent properties were the Berkshire’s version of the Newport Mansions and the Great Adirondack Camps.
THE ROOMS at Blantyre
Amandine, Steakk Frites and more. Each night offers a special like Dover Sole on Fridays.
greys adorned with gold and brass accents. The Berkshire dining menu specializes in raclette, fondue, and charcuterie.
In 1834 a waterwheel gristmill was constructed on the property and today many of the materials of the old gristmill; fieldstones, heartwood pine beams, old pine planking and grain bin paneling have been incorporated in the contemporary property design.
artwork and furniture is classically styled. Beds are draped in Garnier-Thiebaut 300 thread count sheets. Many rooms have balconies or patios overlooking the manicured grounds and some have fireplaces. Rooms are equipped with wireless Internet, coffeemakers, cable TV and a writing desk/work station. Pet friendly rooms are available.
late 2018 that cemented its place in the Charlottesville dining scene. Serving all meals including bar snacks like the fantastic Polyface Eggs & Bacon; Kentuckyaki Smoked Pork Belly, Polyface Deviled Eggs and Pickled Onions, the restaurant also has a notable wine list featuring many excellent Virginia wines. Guests can dine in the Main Dining Room with its glass enclosed wine room or outside on the wonderful Terrace overlooking the lake. This restaurant is reviewed in our dining section.
outdoor entertainment arena, it is no wonder the 
Harbor View room that had a huge window overlooking the harbor with spectacular views, a separate sitting area and a large marble bathroom. Very comfortable and immaculate. Turndown includes fresh ice, a bathrobe and slippers laid out on your bed and the radio set to soft music
behind the hotel overlooking the harbor. It’s a wonderful way to spend an evening. Tuesdays feature R&B and soul, Wednesdays, swing music, Thursdays blues and Fridays movies.
On a recent overnight to the New Hope/Lambertville area we enjoyed a wonderful alternative to traditional inns and B&B’s, an absolutely charming little 
Down the hall is a good size bathroom that leads into the bedroom. Wonderfully thick and soft towels, terry robes, fragrant Yardley of London soaps and great shower pressure make this a terrific place to start or end your day. The bedroom has a queen size 4 poster bed with a canopy and luxury linens and dark wooden blinds keep out the morning light.
Ulster County directly across the Hudson River from Poughkeepsie. This delightful property sits on a 75 acre spread on the banks of the Hudson and yes, there really is a “falls” right on the property. Fields of wildflowers and lush gardens dot the property in the summer months. Perched on a hill with sweeping lawns and views of the river and ponds, Buttermilk is an ideal retreat for a romantic getaway for two, for couples traveling together or for a girls’ weekend. The short drive makes it a great Quick Escape, in Saturday am and out Sunday night, but you’ll want to stay longer at this relaxing and utterly charming Inn.
From 3-5 pm the Inn offers a selection of herbal teas with house baked scones and assorted local cheeses as well as homemade sweets like double fudge brownies, macaroons, oatmeal raisin cookies and lavender pound cake.
Just across the Bay from San Francisco is the charming seaside town of Sausilito, filled with wonderful shops, cafes and art galleries. If you want to escape the rigors of a big city, yet be close enough to get there when you want, 
Rooms including the 5,000 square foot Alexandrite Suite located atop the property within the historic Mansion, originally built in 1885. Rooms include pillow-top mattresses, luxury linens, locally sourced organic coffee and in-room coffee maker, marble baths with dual sinks and Bvlgari bath amenities.
herbs directly from the restaurant’s backyard garden. This is a cozy, bustling neighborhood restaurant that would be worthy of a visit even if it was not attached to the hotel. The food is wonderful, the vibe convivial and the wine list is interesting and very reasonably priced. I enjoyed a great Amarone, served by the glass, something you don’t see often.
old building overlook the grounds with the ocean in the distance, are smaller rooms, but have a large deck with lounge chairs and a table with umbrella and chairs. (make sure you specify with the patio or deck when making reservations). The West Wing rooms are larger, with a smaller patio, but look right out onto the ocean. 
The lobby is dark and warm with polished oak walls, beamed ceilings, comfortable chairs, a fireplace and views of the water. The restaurant is among the best in Newport (see our Featured Restaurants)and the bar is a great place for cocktails before dinner
THE RATES at The Castle Hill Inn
Leave it to the government to appropriate a setting so amazing, but that’s what happened at Fort Baker, an army post created in 1866 for the defense of the San Francisco Bay. Located at the base of the Golden Gate Bridge, the views of the bridge and San Francisco are nothing short of spectacular. In 2002 when it was no longer needed by the military, the base was transferred to the National Park Service, who ultimately leased the property to a hospitality group. The Fort Baker Retreat Group, a project of Passport Resorts, Equity Community Builders and the Ajax Capital Group began the process of converting the 24 buildings into a luxury resort called 
THE ROOMS
purveyors, organic farms and ranches and Bay area artisans, Chef Monique Feybesse crafts a California menu, using local purveyors, that features simple, yet bold, techniques.
I love the two patios set among gardens where you can enjoy coffee and a newspaper in the morning or a good book at any time. There’s also comfortable seating on the veranda places to enjoy a private breakfast if you don’t feel like joining other guests at the communal kitchen tables. Single travelers will be as comfortable here as couples.
Christy Renaissance Egyptian Cotton Towels, triple sheeted king or queen beds, Egyptian cotton robes, feather or down pillows and Molton Brown toiletries (a favorite of ours). The beds are super comfortable
and snacks are set out in the living room and on the veranda throughout the day. You’ll find a beach bag with towels hanging on your door. The Inn has WiFi throughout, but just in case, there’s terminal on each floor. All day, every day, you’ll find hot coffee and tea available in the alcove off the kitchen, and some sort of fresh baked goodies set out in the parlor from cookies to macaroons to cinnamon swirls. There is a huge collection of DVD’s also available in the parlor, along with extra beach towels and a library of books spread thorough out the house (inside, outside, guest rooms, hallways and sitting rooms) that rivals any we’ve seen.
This is a magnificent inn with museum quality antiques and oil paintings that still manages to be one of the most comfortable places I have ever stayed. The owners, Gery and Paula Conover have created and maintained one of the most glorious inns I have ever encountered. The attention to detail is extraordinary. Unobtrusive staff members are constantly trimming bushes, clipping dead flowers, sweeping sidewalks and polishing brass railings.
I read, I dozed, I read, and I dozed. The only sound I heard was the fountain in the gold fish pond.
feature an antique desk and chair, a baby grand piano, a fireplace with two very comfortable club chairs on either side, book shelves, a dressing table with sterling silver brushes, combs and mirrors, oil paintings, a table with a sterling wine bucket and two decanters, one scotch and one gin, sterling silver vases with fresh flower bouquets, a Bose radio and plasma TV, Bvlgari toiletries, a 4 poster queen bed, brass lamps and colors of hunter green and burgundy. High quality linens on a feather bed made for a wonderful sleep. Wow!
used. They even think to provide q-tips, cotton swabs and feminine products. Oh yes, the bathroom glasses are cut crystal.
visit the area. They raised the bar even higher a few years ago with their departure from the “Victorian and wicker” decor that characterizes so many places at the Shore.
chairs. Plump pillow top beds are covered in luxurious 300 count linens. Artwork is a blend of local, historical and colorful modern and Impressionist styles. Tin ceilings, wood-burning fireplaces, paddle fans, potted palms and sea grass and mahogany blinds complete an elegant “Tommy Bahama” kind of feel. Marble bathrooms feature Aveda toiletries and many have Jacuzzis and/or soaking tubs. Flat screen TV’s, DVD’s, wireless Internet access and refrigerated wet bars head the list of other amenities.
overlooking the Lake. Suites and Parlors have sleep sodas so are ideal when traveling with children.
finger. Its year round population of 200,000+ explodes in the summer as Bostonians seek to escape the city and New Englanders flock to the beaches.
and the restaurant refurbished and refreshed.
themed décor and have flat screen TV s, Bose Wave radios, luxury linens, L’Occitane bath amenities, Nespresso coffeemakers and wireless internet access. Premier rooms and suites have decks or balconies overlooking the harbor and ocean.
STARS, is a premium steakhouse, which is so good that it has become a destination on its own. With custom chandeliers, massive columns, a fireplace and fantastic views, the setting couldn’t be more conducive to a great meal. Serving mid-western grain fed and dry aged beef and local ingredients and produce from the Inn’s own farm, STARS has earned the AAA Four Diamond Award. The service is extraordinary and the menu distinctive enough to set it apart of other steakhouses. Start with the raw bar (the line ginger relish with the local oysters is fantastic) or the sashimi of tuna and hamachi served with chilled Himalayan salt rock and hot river rock, pickled scallion, ponzu gel and ginger vinaigrette. While they’ll custom cut your grain fed beef at the table, opt for the dry aged beef, it is so much more flavorful. You can choose from 5 different sauces and select one side..the pale ale battered onion rings were amazing. Wines are served from an open wine cellar displayed on tables in the dining room. The selection is worthy of a good steakhouse and the pricing is reasonable. Leave room for dessert..there are great choices.
Chatham Inn
Bathroom with overhead rain shower and body jets, a King bed with luxury linens, pillows and duvets by Matouk, a wood burning fireplace, wet bar with refrigerator, comfortable seating area, and an outdoor balcony with bistro table and chairs. Bathrooms feature Bulgari bath amenities and Frette towels.All of rooms feature a beige color palette, hardwood floors with area rugs, contemporary furniture and include a flatscreen television with DirecTV, USB charging stations and complimentary WiFi.
Colicchio’s Craft, Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak, and the Michelin 3-Star Jean-Georges; the Forbes 5-star Peninsula Hotel in New York City, and the renowned Mayflower Inn Relais & Châteaux.
check-in, which was swift and easy. When we returned to our room after dinner, it had been refreshed and prepared for the night. Another amenity we haven’t seen in a few years.
Perched on a hill overlooking a pond in the front and a field of wildflowers in the back, 
floral draperies, traditional furniture and antiques, the room was both elegant and intimate. A wonderful Temperpedic bed with luxury linens guaranteed a great sleep and in the morning a personal Keurig machine helped start the day with a great cup of coffee. The bath had a huge two person Jacuzzi, a stall shower and Gilchrist & Soames toiletries. A good sized deck looked out over an open field which I was told is filled with wildflowers in the summer.
meadow and is a wonderfully intimate setting for dinner. Under the direction of Chef Bob Nabstedt, the menu is innovative, well prepared and quite good. It features fresh fish from Boston, local game and herbs from their own gardens. I started with a roasted butternut squash ravioli with a balsamic brown butter, toasted hazelnuts and shaved Parmesan that I didn’t want to end. I really wanted to order the braised bison short ribs with a zinfandel and roasted shallot reduction sauce, but opted for the healthier sesame encrusted Atlantic swordfish with a bourbon, ginger and soy glaze and wasn’t disappointed in the least. A pumpkin creme brulee ended a great meal.
is well trained and gracious, the grounds are meticulously maintained and the rooms are comfortable and in pristine condition. Your favorite pet is welcome and the Inn has set aside six rooms for your canine traveler.
The location right on the beach is spectacular and is only a short 15 minute walk to town. The Beach Club rooms, which I prefer, are set at an angle so that each enjoys delightful views of the beach and Sound beyond. There’s something wonderful about falling asleep with the moon on the water outside your room and waking to the sun rising over the beach. The best rooms are the ones directly facing the Sound with a private deck that opens right onto the beach.
bright and cheerful. Bed and bath linens are very good quality and we slept wonderfully on a plump and comfortable bed.
What makes this place special is the feeling of tranquility you get here. Whether you are sitting in the Adirondack chairs in the Pavilion looking at the Sound, lounging on a beach chair or strolling the waterline, the rest of the world seems far away. Add cocktails at sunset and dinner at The Galley and you’ve got just about as good a day as you will find anywhere.
The walls of the public spaces are covered with an amazing collection of over 100 works of art, all by Ms. Turner. Even more incredible is that the subject of this art is Ms. Turner herself!
DINING at The Cliffside Inn
One of the fun things about what we do is finding those undiscovered places that didn’t show up in any of our research. Such is the case of the marvelous 
The Master was decorated in pale yellow with blues and greens, had a 4 poster iron bed sheer curtains surrounding it. The furniture was a casual rattan (ala Tommy Bahama). The other bedroom, also done in pale colors had two full size beds and its own bath as well. The beds are luxurious pillowtops with high count linens and embroidered with a “B”. Bathrooms are large, equipped with Molton Brown toiletries, Frette robes and towels. The Master also has a jacuzzi for two.
THE SERVICE at the Cottages on Charleston Harbor
Provincetown or “P-Town” as it is affectionately called by locals and fans sits at the northern tip of Cape Cod, bordered on three sides by the Atlantic. Its history goes back nearly 400 years…this is where the Mayflower actually landed and the Mayflower Compact signed. Today, it is a thriving colony of artists and writers and maybe the world’s most popular gay and lesbian resort. There are about 3,000 year round residents and the population explodes to nearly 60,000 in the summer. While the gay population may dissuade some from visiting, they would be missing a lot. This is a delightful town with exceptional art galleries, wonderful restaurants and bars, amazing beaches, spectacular sunrises and sunsets….and maybe the world’s best people watching!
reproductions and comfortable chairs and reading lamps. Premium mattresses are draped in 450 thread count linens and down pillows and comforters. Many rooms have fireplaces, whirlpool tubs and private decks. All rooms are equipped with flat screen TV’s, DVD players and Keurig coffeemakers.
The wine list has some 125 wines and 4,000 bottles and an excellent by the glass selection. All the major regions are represented and pricing is very reasonable. Try the delicious Shea Pinot Noir from Oregon.
accessible from NYC, New Jersey, New England and even Philadelphia. Waterfront rooms and great dining make this a wonderful weekend escape.
Start at the bar and try one of the Seven Deadly Virtues cocktails and if you are lucky the delightful Louie will be behind the bar. He will end up being part of the evening’s enjoyment.
fireplaces roaring, pine paneled walls and welcome hosts. While it was a comfortable place to stay, it had not kept up with the amenities travelers have come to expect.
antiques and sophisticated accessories with a “mountain: theme. All have flat screen TV’s, heated bathroom floors, glass walk-in showers, plump beds with luxury linens and oh-so-soft bath towels. Most have either wood burning or gas fireplaces and some have soaking tubs and separate seating areas.
co-founder of Sumptuous Syrups. Horrigan can mix up a classic cocktail or one of his own concoctions, neither of which will disappoint. Try his margarita!
The marble lobby of this elegant and luxurious hotel is small and intimate and check-in at the antique desk is quick and efficient. The staff is friendly and engaging and quick to hail a taxi or offer directions. The acclaimed Uni Restaurant is one of the city’s most popular Japanese restaurants and sushi bars.
My favorite room is #704. Large windows, that actually open, provide sweeping views down Commonwealth Ave. and Massachusetts Ave. This spacious suite is a great place to come home to at the end of the day or evening.
OTHER Things at the Eliot Hotel
Traveling to a major city for a weekend can be very expensive. So it was with a sense of utter joy that we recently found a marvelous B&B, the 
the original brick walls. Beds are super comfortable with luxury linens and plump pillows. Windows actually open to let in the fresh air. Each room has a completely modern private bath with a stand-up shower, fluffy towels and high end toiletries. Rooms have a wireless network and phones with message and wake-up capabilities.
capers, a platter of assorted cheeses, hard-boiled eggs, yogurt, orange juice, and a selection of coffees and teas. The signature dish is a delicious fresh fruit salad, which includes at least a dozen kinds of fruit every day. In nice weather you can enjoy breakfast on the rear patio.
Wynn and Encore
sheets. Bedside console charges your phone and controls lights, draperies and suite privacy. Large bathroom has an oversize marble bathtub and a separate glass enclosed shower.
OVERVIEW of Estancia La Jolla
THE ROOMS at Estancia La Jolla
THE SERVICE at Estancia La Jolla
old bottle of water for the road. All in all, it was a very pleasant experience.
OVERVIEW of the Fairmont Grand Del Mar
rooms, 31 suites, a pair of Presidential suites and three bedroom villas.
Wine Spectator Grand Award winner. La Salon offers cocktails and small plates, but you will not want to miss the 4 course dinner in the Addison Rotunda.
Grand Del Mar resort, where chef William Bradley puts out 
For over 200 years the Fearrington property, located in the beautiful countryside between Pittsboro and Chapel Hill in North Carolina was a working farm, passing from generation to generation until it was purchased by RB and Jenny Fitch in 1974. Today, the property includes homes, specialty shops and a market along with the Inn and restaurant.
or quick breakfast or lunch and has a great selection of sandwiches and salads for a picnic. You can also pick up a bottle of wine for your room and there are some excellent choices at very reasonable prices. 
restaurant is decorated with interesting antiques and local art. Tables are classically set with white linens adorned with fresh flowers in small silver vases and candles in cut glass Waterford globes.
We were dining one evening with my wife’s cousin, so I asked our server to have a cheese plate sent over to our suite to go with a bottle of wine I purchased that afternoon at the Belted Goat. When we arrived in the room, 3 glasses were set out with napkins and silverware on the coffee table in the living room. The wine was in an ice bucket and a wonderful cheese course was waiting to be enjoyed. As I always say, the difference between good and great is in the details.
Just outside the Sante Fe city limits, 
the dessert with splashes of brown, gold and rust, the sense is of a kind of rustic elegance. Original local artwork adds color and wood burning Kiva fireplaces add warmth. Beds are draped in luxury Italian linens and down comforters. Marble bathrooms are huge with radiant heated floors, soaking tubs and separate showers. All have private outdoor terraces. Custom blended bath products reflect the scents of the desert with aromas of sage, lavender and rosemary.
blue corn pancakes and green chile sausage at breakfast; Rubin’s Tortilla soup and a lamb quesadilla with jalapeno jelly at lunch and cumin roasted pheasant with mountain morels, fiddlehead ferns, new potatoes and kumquat relish at dinner.
THE RATES: From $1063 Peak Season Weekend
Georgetown is my favorite part of the City with its quaint boutiques, bistros, bars and particularly the C&O Canal whose tow path is a great place to walk or run. 
and the marble bathroom was huge and had one of the best showers we have encountered in our travels. As with most great places, it is the details that set it apart of others. The bathroom was equipped with any toilet articles you may have forgotten; razor, deodorant, nail products, even collar stays. Plush robes with collars hung in a walk-in closet. Bottled water was left on the nightstand at turn down. A writing desk had a stapler, paper clips and a ruler.
DINING at the Four Seasons Washington DC
Room, where you can enjoy a massage, steam and whirlpool in total privacy.
Four Seasons hotels are among the finest in the country. Their design, service level and amenities are matched by few other hotel chains. While the hotels can be very expensive in places like NYC, sometimes, like in Las Vegas, you get an incredible value for this level of lodging.
to ceiling windows look out on the Strip or the mountains in the distance. Beige and gray serve as the background palette and splashes of bold colors are introduced in artwork, furniture and accent walls. Beds are draped with plush mattress toppers, down pillows and duvets. Marble baths feature L’Occtaine bath amenities, plush towels and a killer shower you won’t want to leave. Coffee and tea service, a mini bar and daily newspapers complete the list of amenities.
Palmer, has created 
skewers at the pool to the complimentary car service to another hotel, your comfort is paramount. Staff is friendly and engaging and you always feel it is genuine.
Just steps away from the popular Union Square shopping area of downtown San Francisco lies the inimitable 
shades of grey, blue and white. The functional yet beautiful office furniture adorning each room was designed by renowned architect Herman Miller. If you are a connoisseur of hotels bathrooms, then you won’t be disappointed here. A large bathtub, a separate glass enclosed shower, a large marble vanity area and L’Occitane toiletries make this a delightful experience.
is
THE RATES: From $525 Peak Season Weekend
Conveniently located downtown, within walking distance to everything, The 
THE ROOMS at Francis Malbone Inn
A full gourmet breakfast is served in the dining room, or you can sit on the enclosed courtyard amidst the gardens. Their signature buffet consists of an array of croissants, muffins, fruit parfaits, granola, fruit crisps, coffee, and juices. They serve a choice of two main courses accompanied by either smoked bacon or sausage.
Market Square in the heart of the historic district. Up the maghogany railed stairway from the
suite, so that’s the way to go. They are spacious and have a separate sitting area. Decorated in light colors with dark patterned carpeting, they are a picture of simple elegance. Be sure to ask for one with a fireplace, Jacuzzi and balcony, not all have these amenities.
Dried Fruits in Mustard Syrup; A Free Bird Farms Free-Range Chicken Breast with Butternut Squash Risotto, Sugar Snap Peas and a sage Sage Beurre Blanc; Glasbern Raised Beef Meatloaf: Roasted Garlic Mashed Potato, Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots and House-Made BBQ Glaze; Glasbern Flourless Chocolate Cake: Kreider Farms Chocolate Ice Cream, Chocolate Sauce,
THE RATES at Glasbern Country Inn
everyone about it. Such is the case of 
showers, claw foot tubs, IPads, private porches and more.
With just two tables, the Hunt Room was intimate and private. Dinner features five c
the morning.
OVERVIEW of Glenmere Mansion
room anchored by two fireplaces with views out over the terrace is ideal for pre and post dinner cocktails. Noted interior designed Scott Snyder has masterfully blended the old with the new to capture the glories of the past with today’s edgier, more contemporary look.
shower that converted to a steam room and La Bottega toiletries with a custom scent created by noted Italian perfumer Laura Tonatto. There was a love seat and coffee table at the bottom of the bed and two club chairs facing each other next to the fireplace. When the lights went down at night, a soft blue light under the bed gave just enough light to see your way around in the dark…very cool. If ever there was a room you didn’t want to leave, this is it.
Ridge Mountains of Virginia.
activities in the area. The hotel is a wonderful and warm European style boutique hotel steeped in history, but perfectly suited to these modern times. Opened in 1913, the hotel has gone through numerous iterations over the years. At one point the pharmacist at the drugstore next to the hotel was the father of actor Gregory Peck who grew up in La Jolla before heading to Hollywood for fame and fortune. In the 40’s the Colonial was a temporary home to some of Hollywood’s up and coming stars who were performing at the La Jolla Playhouse, founded by Peck. Charlton Heston, Dorothy McGuire, Groucho Marx, Jane Wyatt, Eve Arden, Pat O’Brien, David Niven and many other celebrities occupied the hotel well into the late 1950s.
breezes. Amenities include; free high-speed Internet access; HD TVs with full HD channel lineup including HBO; Keurig single serving coffee makers; complimentary in-room bottled water; twice daily housekeeping service including evening turn-down service; goose down comforters; Serta iComfort Eurotop mattresses; complimentary access to Digital News Service; convenience charging outlets at nightstand and desk; speakerphone and cordless phone; ceiling fans; Gilchrist & Soames bath and body products; plush bathrobes; iron and ironing board; daily laundry valet service; and room service from NINE-TEN Restaurant.
award-winning chef Jason Knibb and where guests can enjoy the best from local artisan farmers and local fish selections and items arriving daily from Hawaii and the North Pacific and Atlantic regions.
Mountain Road has been welcoming guests to this year round country inn. With 104 antique filled rooms and suites, the Inn has a complete list of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, health club and pool. Yet with all these modern conveniences, it is still able to retain its charm as a Vermont country inn. The cozy living room with bookcases, dark red walls and comfortable chairs around the fireplace is just what you thought a Vermont Inn would look like.
the living area set a wonderfully romantic mood. Add a complimentary bottle of wine, a thoughtful piano concerto CD and thick terry robes and you’ve got the start to a great evening.
The Whip Bar & Grill is a dark, wood paneled room with booths and decorated with antique buggy whips. It is one of my favorite places in town for lunch, brunch or an afternoon drink.
few other places. The small sign marking the entry is indicative of the hotel itself…unobtrusive and unpretentious. The lobby foyer is small, but opens to a bright room with soaring ceilings, seating nooks set with couches and chairs…walls graced by artwork by one of the owners, Robert DeNiro.
true, but it seems that every time there was a construction or design decision they opted for the unique or charming over the normal and mundane. The door locking system is one I have never seen, the antique bathroom fixtures are Leroy Brooks Limited of England, the glass doors to the shower and toilet have panes in them creating the look of leaded glass, the beds, adorned with luxury linens are Dux beds. The rainfall showers have amazing pressure, the oversized towels are actually soft, room snacks (except alcohol) are complimentary, there’s a jar of candies on the book shelf and the list goes on.
charming, laid back Italian restaurant with a delicious rustic country menu of antipastas, homemade pastas and grilled meats and fish. Wonderful wine list.
yourself remembering the drinks by the fire or coffee in the garden or the wonderful shower or the great night’s sleep. You’ll be back….
The Beach Club has undergone a complete make-over with day beds, a new beachfront restaurant and bar and a “Beach Concierge.” A new sand filtered seawater swimming pool has been added, the 30,000 square foot Seawater Spa (which has a wonderful ocean side indoor pool) has been refreshed and the food and beverage program has been completely revamped.
Island. Now they have worked their magic again, this time in Newport, RI to the former Hyatt Hotel on Goat Island.
amenities include luxury linens, pillow top beds, 47″ TV’s, a separate work area, a sitting area, complimentary WiFi, a spacious bath with granite counter tops, a glass shower and Gilchrist & Soames bath products. Rooms are equipped with a special plastic bag for guests to take their phone, sunglasses etc to the pool.
coffee bar offering coffees, teas and breakfast sandwiches.
Montauk has a personality all its own, separate from the hectic Hamptons and the wine culture of the North Fork. It is a laid-back beach town, similar to what you might find at The Jersey Shore or on the Cape. The beaches are spectacular, the fishing world class, there are wonderful restaurants and the town has a unique charm. You can easily stay here and not have to travel anywhere else in the Hamptons to enjoy yourself.
LCD HD flat panel televisions; custom designed nautical window treatments; goose down pillows, duvet comforters and 300-thread count sheets; Keurig coffee makers; iHome clock radios; refrigerators; spacious bath and vanity areas with plush oversized towels and luxury bath amenities.
Lafayette Square. Surrounded by lush greenery and gardens, the Inn has some great architectural features like 13 foot ceilings, 12 foot. windows, delightful balconies and some rooms with private entrances. There are 18 individually decorated rooms and suites furnished with Empire, Eastlake and Renaissance Revival period antiques.
gated outer door, exposed brick walls, a very comfortable queen bed and a delightful claw-foot tub in the bathroom. At night the gas lights were visible on the square across the street.
Harbor, the 
and 415, in the Main Building, are particularly large, have great views of the Harbor and balconies. The new Guest Suites, while without the views, are elegantly furnished in cheerful colors with vaulted ceilings, fireplaces, 4 poster beds, porches and outdoor showers.
Blackened Swordfish and Maple Brined Kurobuta Pork Chops.
THE ROOMS at the Harbourview Inn
THE RATES at the Harbourview Inn
halfway down the Florida Keys. It offers one of the best values we have seen for family vacations. Amenities abound….there’s lots to do for adults and children alike and the price is unbelievable. Imagine rooms starting at $239 on a January weekend….where’s the plane?
and “Teens” 12-17. all supervised by a staff of licensed professionals. Hawk’s Cay was voted one of the “Best Hotel Kids’ Programs” by Travel & Leisure Magazine. The kids will love the Pirate Ship Pool and The Indies Club.
once in a while will opt for a villa. For smaller families or couples, I particularly like the Premier Lanai guestrooms which have their own private sundeck and porch.
squash, orange, lemongrass, spicy potlicker; McCoy Ranch Grass Fed Delmonioco Steak, b
Set on 60 wooded acres, with manicured lawns and beautiful gardens, 
balsamic),two bedrooms, one with a king and the other with two twins, an open air front porch with chairs or couches and a side screened in porch with comfortable furniture and game tables. Bedrooms are large, each with their own bath. Beds are draped in Frette linens with down duvets, the towels are thick and plush and bathrooms offer Mario Russo toiletries.
Lebanon, while inspired, signature cocktails are concocted with freshly muddled fruits and fresh herbs plucked from the garden.
THE RATES at Hidden Pond
For many, many years the Hilton occupied the corner of Main Street and Saranac Avenue and in 2008 the property passed hands and became the 
screen TV’s, an oversized desk with granite top and high quality bedding and linens. A frosted glass door leads to a European styled bathroom with a natural stone tiled walk-in shower with a rainforest shower head, plump towels and Molton Brown toiletries.
guests have a choice of USA Today, The New York Times or the Wall Street Journal delivered to their rooms.
may be the only truly “green” property on the island.
comforters. Each room is individually and elegantly decorated in cheerful yet soft colors, beautiful antiques and hand painted furniture. You’ll find a flat screen TV, DVD’s, Bose radios, mini bars and fresh flowers. Bathrooms have plush terrycloth robes and towels and Aveda toiletries. I don’t know maybe it’s me but there’s something about washing your hair with rosemary mint shampoo in the morning. It feels so organic…..
the scones….they’re legendary. Tea and fresh lemonade are served with homemade scones and local berry preserves in the afternoon. Sit on the porch or in the garden and while away the afternoon. After dinner help yourself to a vintage port in the library.
cascading waterfall. The air is filled with heavenly fragrances and there’s even a moon garden which is in peak bloom and fragrance in the evening.
that opened onto a private patio. Upstairs, a plump King bed looked out French doors to the beautiful gardens below. Getting out of that bed in the morning was a chore….
The kitchen is under the direction of Chef Meseret Crockett. Ms. Crockett, was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and was educated in French schools. She is a graduate of the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and fluent in five language. Offering farm-to-table and boat-to-table dining, Crockett seeks out only the finest, locally sourced vegetables and seafood. The Inn offers a three course prix fixe menu for $75.
to leave people to themselves. The kitchen staff is friendly and accommodating and seem to really enjoy turning out those terrific breakfasts. This is the best kind of service, there when you need it but never suffocating or overbearing.
The Hotel Bel-Air
Starting at a generous 430 sq ft, the rooms feature custom limestone floors, natural wood ceilings and a soft palette of tans, browns and whites. Beds are draped in luxury Fili d’Oro Egyptian cotton bed linens. Marble bathrooms come with with heated floors, rain head showers and Anne Semonin bath amenities. We loved our 
photographs and a grand piano for nightly entertainment. Great drink and wine menu. Small plates including cheese, caviar, oysters and more.
The hotel has a rich history and has entertained guests from Babe Ruth to Mae West to Robert Frost to three U.S. Presidents. Founded in 1852, by Delmonico’s master chef Louis Fauchère, the 
room was enhanced with a large outdoor deck that overlooked the gardens. Bathrooms of Carrerra marble and Pennsylvania blue stone have a shower of two rain forest heads and enough pressure to qualify for our “Hall of Fame” shower group. Floors have radiant heat and towel warmers to keep the towels toasty. Our queen bed was firm, draped in a two inch feather bed, Frette linens and covered with down comforters and pillows.
Delmonico brothers who owned Delmonico´s restaurant in New York, creators of hamburger as a sandwich, Lobster Newburg, Lobster Thermidor, potatoes au gratin, Eggs Benedict and, of course, the Delmonico cut of steak.
caviar. Bar Louis Burger was served with spicy fried onions with a choice of cheddar, gruyère, or blue cheese, on The Hotel’s own Patisserie Brioche Bun with French Fries. My Angus Steak Frites was a 10 oz. delight, perfectly cooked with Maitre’d Hotel butter and crisp pommes frites. On our Tuesday visit, the Gypsy Jazz Quartet was entertaining and may be the best jazz group I have ever heard.
stay the staff is attentive, but unobtrusive.
America. A recent A $6.2 million restoration maintained the hotel’s historical character while installing the latest comfort and technological amenities. Centrally located in town, the hotel is just a few blocks from Thames St.
Accommodations include pillow-top mattresses, Egyptian cotton bed linens, LCD televisions and beveled glass doors leading into bathrooms with ‘pillow’ carved marble showers. I particularly like the Estate Fireside Rooms which feature an electric fireplace.
astounding and the sunsets magical.
starred restaurants, an amazing bakery and wonderful boutiques.
a walk in shower or tub/shower combo, a fieldstone fireplace, European Amenities, a mini bar and a coffee/tea maker. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected and a 42-inch LCD television offers premium TV channels.
the Valley to provide a complimentary tasting in the Y Bar. Winery partners offer a range of benefits to hotel guests.
The hotel’s location is ideal, next to the hot Time Warner Center, a block from Central Park and convenient to the theater, Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall and a ton of restaurants.
for the 
linens. Windows and French doors are surrounded by custom draperies and recessed lighting casts a soft romantic glow over the room. Fresh flowers add a delightful personal touch. All rooms have gas fireplaces, LCD televisions, DVD players, wireless Internet access and Bose radio/CD players. Italian tile bathrooms feature two person whirlpool tubs, glass showers, heated towel racks, Egyptian cotton towels, bathrobes and Gilchrist and Soames toiletries.
current chef at the acclaimed Evermay on the Delaware as a culinary consultant. The result, produced by owner Michael Ammery is a truly memorable breakfast served in your room, in the dining room or on the terrace overlooking the pool. Freshly squeezed juices, fresh fruit and home baked breads and muffins start you off and the signature breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausage, tomato, mushrooms, baked beans, sauteed potatoes and fried bread will fill you up for the day.
Conservatory or on the Manor Terrace overlooking the pool. All great spots to curl up with a book and a glass of wine. A stone patio surrounds a free form pool, set on a bluff overlookingthe gardens and a gazebo on the lawn, the perfect place to while away a summer day.
Every serious traveler, foodie and oenophile has dreamed of owning their own place, but few of us, have the resources or the experience to pull it off. Annapolis, Maryland and Houston businessman Doug Bosch and his wife Jennifer had both the resources and the passion to covert their 300 acre family abode into the 
rolling meadows. Fresh flowers, local artwork and colorful striped duvets and shams offset the white walls. A comfortable window seat made for a great place to curl up with a book early in the morning and watch the sun rise over the dewy fields. Amenities include luxury linens, feather beds, a white stone fireplace, stocked mini kitchen, HDTV, DVD player and VCR. The large marble bath featured plush towels and robes and Lady Primrose amenities.
Resort and Spa (Farmington, PA) and the American Club Resort (Kohler,WI,) a Forbes Five-star, AAA Five Diamond establishment. 
open kitchen allows you to watch all the chefs prepare a multi-course dinner, featuring Whidbey Island and ingredients from around the world. Dinner is served every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night year-round and Thursday through Sunday nights during the summer months of July-August. There is one seating per night.
Set in the heart of Amish country in Lancaster, PA, the 
have a flat screen TV, luxury bedding and Keurig coffeemakers. Additionally, most rooms are equipped with a microwave oven and a refrigerator. WIFI is complimentary. Hard to pick a favorite room, but the 
Open weekends only.
style with distressed wood and Amish designed antiques and artifact. men, don’t miss the 
In the late 70’s Reinhardt Lynch and Patrick O’Connell had a successful catering business but dreamed of creating the perfect inn and restaurant. They found an old gas station in the sleepy little village of Washington, Virginia nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley and began the transformation. In no time the 
antiques and combine rich fabrics, tapestries and wall coverings and you begin to envision the look and feel of the Inn. With fourteen rooms and suites, all decorated with a different mood,the Inn is what one would imagine a private English country home to be like. The public rooms are opulently decorated, yet warm and comfortable. Wander around and you will encounter small sitting areas with comfortable couches and reading material.
If you really want to shoot the moon, ask for the Mayor’s House which is located just across the street in a private setting all its own. This is a magnificent retreat and one you will savor for quite some time. The bedroom features a king bed and fireplace. The large marble bathroom has a Jacuzzi and separate shower. There is a separate sitting room with its own fireplace and a courtyard deck and garden.
air, of something special to come. And it does not disappoint for one second.
country ham with the mild veal flavors. Jen had prime tenderloin of Angus beef on red wine risotto with morels and baby white asparagus. Cooked perfectly and the risotto was rich and wonderfully seasoned.
country owned by two people who like to entertain a lot. For over 26 years it has felt as if we’ve been hosting one continuous house party. A successful party, like a great film or work of art, elevates the spirit, makes people feel life is worth living and enhances a guest’s self esteem.”
My car door was opened by another staffer who assured us he would take care of the luggage and car. As we entered the Inn, yet another staffer, welcomed us, told us no paperwork was necessary and invited us on a tour of the Inn. He showed us the public rooms and garden patio, presented us with a complimentary “welcome cocktail” of champagne and passion fruit and escorted us to our room. He asked us if we needed anything pressed for dinner, which we did, and he promised its return shortly.
film “Wedding Crashers” with Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn. To others it is a cozy weekend retreat in a delightful Eastern Shore town on the banks of the Miles River.
of the water, a separate living room, a fireplace, two bathrooms, one of which was as big as my first apartment, luxury linens and a terrific bed that was hard to leave in the morning. Decorated in soothing shades of beige with local artwork and a blend of modern and antique furniture, this was a memorable place to spend a couple of days.
Much care has been taken to create an elegant and sophisticated setting from sweeping river views to plush banquettes in soft Nantucket colors to striking artwork. Tables are set with Peugeot Silver Salt and Pepper shakers, Wedgwood china in the Nantucket pattern, linen by Rivolta Carmignani in a seashell pattern, blown glassware by Spiegelau and bone china shell candle holders. Joanne Effinger, the Inn’s Master Gardener, cuts fresh flowers each day and arranges them in petite vases. All this would be wasted but for the exquisite food and service. Don’t miss the crab soup, the crab cakes and the vanilla butter poached lobster. The 10,000+ bottle wine cellar has excellent choices and is reasonably priced. Live jazz on selected Saturdays in the winter by the Eric Felten Trio, named “a rising star on the international jazz scene” by PBS.
WHAT OTHERS SAY About at the Inn at Perry Cabin
roaring fireplace, the smell of fresh baked cookies, wide planked pine floors and gorgeous views combine to make this charming inn as comfortable as your own home. We half expected Bing Crosby to come out singing. Built originally in 1910, the Inn was renovated in 1988 and then added new rooms in 1992 and 1999. The concept of the “round barn” originated with the religious group, the Shakers who built their barns this way because “the devil can’t get you in the corners” In fact, the design was a very efficient one for the farmers.
THE ROOMS at Inn at the Round Barn Farm
The Inn has a license to sell wine by the glass and bottle and there are always complimentary drinks and snacks and hors d’ouevres and tea each afternoon.
For over 20 years, the Green Mountain Cultural Center has called the Inn home to a variety of events. Performances supported by this renowned Vermont non-profit organization have become a cornerstone of the Vermont Festival of the Arts. The goal is to marry the beauty of the valley and Vermont’s Green Mountains with the unique talents of local Vermont artists, New England artists, and artists of international renown.
OVERVIEW of Inn at Thorn Hill
Main Building as they have been completely redone following a 2002 fire. My comfortable room, Mt. Madison, had a warm gold faux finish on the walls that was complimented by a gold and burgundy comforter and pillow shams. The room had a beautiful matching carved antique dresser and head/footboard and a great antique armoire. The bed was plump and comfortable and dressed in luxury linens. The bath was huge and featured a two person Jacuzzi (with mood setting candles), a steam shower (my favorite amenity), Gilchrist & Soames toiletries and plush towels and robes. Gray Manor and Mt. Monroe are two other preferred rooms.
Call ahead and see if you can book the Granite Room, which is a private, stone walled dining and tasting room downstairs.
we have traveled.
The ride up the driveway past gorgeous formal gardens reveals a magnificent Tuscan influenced villa with a red tile roof. Your car is met instantly and you are guided through an arched portico to the reception desk in the Crawford Lounge, as inviting an entry hall as you will find anywhere. The public rooms are stunning yet cozy and comfortable, decorated with antiques and period pieces and filled with overstuffed furniture, striking artwork and sculptures and bookshelves. In the cooler weather blazing fires are set in the numerous fireplaces and porcelain bowls of apples, silver dishes of nuts and decanters of port and sherry sit on heirloom buffets and antique sideboards. These are not just rooms for “show” but to be enjoyed for some quiet reading, a game of snooker, an afternoon cocktail or a before bed glass of port.
Rooms are oversized at 400 + square feet and feature luxurious Duxiana beds with leather nailbed headboards, Frette linens and bath sheets. Bathrooms are constructed with Arabescato marble with double vanities, an oversized walk-in shower and Red Flower bath amenities.
little touches that tell all like the thought process on the turn down treats or that on Christmas morning, guests staying at the hotel can wander through the public rooms to discover which fireplace their personalized holiday stocking has been hung over or the Baby Butler program to help mothers with their children or the Pet Program and Menu for your dog.
Built in 1929 and recently renovated, 
cozy and comfortable and outfitted with a flat screen TV, CD player and refrigerator. The designer bed had luxury linens and down comforters and pillows. The large bathroom had a bowl sink, a huge soaking tub and a separate marble shower. Radiant floors, organic toiletries and plump towels added to the appeal.
THE SERVICE at L’Auberge Carmel
“world-class” experience includes a staff that makes “every effort”, “beautiful rooms” with French doors and deep-soaking tubs, and “luxurious” grounds.” ZAGAT
It would be hard to find a better setting for a romantic weekend away than 
alone five-bedroom Creekhouse on the property. Cottages and rooms are decorated to reflect the colors of the creek with white walls, blue accents and dark wood furniture. We loved our Creekside Cottage with the sound of running water outside our door. It was nearly 500 sq ft in size, had a fireplace, an outside deck with table and chairs, an outside shower, down bedding, club chairs and an ottoman and L’Occitane bath products. As close to home as you can get.
Michelin starred restaurants. Most recently he was Executive Chef at the acclaimed St Regis Hotel in San Francisco. Desplechin is also a level one sommelier. The restaurant offers an all day a la carte menu, a prix fixe dinner menu and a Sunday Brunch.
My room, Renoir was very large, had a wonderful palette of light blues and yellows and was furnished with French country antiques and striped wallpaper and fabrics. A four poster wood canopy bed centered the room next to a fireplace. A sitting area surrounded a large screen TV and looked out onto the gardens. The linens were luxurious, the toiletries aromatic and the shower had great pressure, all contributing to a most pleasant experience.
Gotham Grill in NYC and under renowned chef Eric Ripert at Le Bernardin, also in NYC. He fashions a menu using vegetables, herbs and fruits grown right on the property and works hard to support sustainable farming in the area using fresh organic meats, cheese and eggs.
more.
from DC; though it has solid service, a “gorgeous setting” and the requisite antiques in its “charming” rooms, it’s a “restaurant first and a B&B a weak second” say foodies who find a “dream come true” in the “incredible” fare. ZAGAT
opened onto our private wrap-around porch with lounge chairs. the beach, steps down from our veranda. Other room recommendations are 404 in La Mer, and 418, 419 and 420 on the second floor of the Dewey House. Room 420 also has a little kitchenette.
In December 2005, just two months after our first visit, a devastating fire destroyed the Lodge’s main building, a wonderful old structure that overlooked Lake Placid and included rooms, the bar, restaurant and the wine cellar. Precious art and furniture and the Lodge’s amazing wine collection were lost forever.
We awoke to a soft knock at our door that told us our breakfast had arrived and we enjoyed it beside the fire as a soft mist passed over the mountains in the distance. Another indulgent soak in the tub and we were on our way. Ah, the good life…
vote as a good place to stay. But that’s not all there is to like here. The rooms, most with fireplaces, balconies and/or courtyards are beautifully decorated, very well maintained and of ample size. On our last visit, we stayed in the Queen Courtyard Suite, which had two rooms; a hot tub room with a fireplace and a bedroom with a fireplace, a separate bath with shower and an intimate balcony overlooking the courtyard. There was Internet access, turndown service with chocolates and even television speakers in the bathroom. A soft comfortable bed with luxury linens, thick towels and bathrobes all made this a delightful experience.
Guests have the use of the Center Club, a fitness center, a short distance from the hotel.
Located in the center of the business district and minutes from the Superdome and the French Quarter, 
plush duvet covers, automated mini bars and 46 inch flat screen color televisions. The bathroom features a natural stone vanity and designer toiletries. A basket of fresh fruit, water and cookies greets each guest.
Gallery, offers a great drink menu and casual fare.
fascinating history. Legendary tenor Enrico Caruso arrived on his private train, Ali McGraw and Ryan O’Neal stayed here while filming Love Story and Tony Curtis during The Boston Strangler production. Judy Garland stayed for three months before departing on her final London trip. I remember going to Diamond Jim’s Piano Bar in the 70’s to hear 80 year old Gladys Troupin, “Boston’s Grand Dame,” who was engaged to George Gershwin when he died.
Accommodations are richly appointed with mahogany furniture, crystal lamps, high ceilings accented with brass chandeliers, exceptionally comfortable beds and exquisite Italian marble bathrooms with Aveda toiletries and plump towels and robes.
chowder sauce, fire roasted chicken, Maine lobster roll and sliders three ways; beef lamb and crab cake. 
romantic. Private and secluded with ample opportunity to be alone, this is the perfect place for a special occasion, to rekindle a romance or to get one started. Sit on the beach, around the pool or in one of the lounge chairs strategically placed in secluded spots around the island. What could be more romantic than a spectacular dinner served at your private table, set, in the water, on a small sand bar, surrounded by torches that reflect off the water. Add a full moon, a great bottle of wine and the world is your oyster.
THE ROOMS at Little Palm Island
Making time for drinks at the bar before dinner and sampling one of their terrific house martinis is a must. Everyone is relaxed and in “vacation mode” and the conversations are fun and entertaining. Try the Paradise Found, Parrot Bay Passion Fruit Rum blended with mango, Midori Liquor, and topped with 151 Rum or the resort’s signature Gumby Slumber, coconut rum, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, tropical juices, and finished with fresh coconut soaked in Bacardi 151 Rum.
are offered a delicious rum punch (or two) while you wait for the boat. The staff is friendly, yet deferential. On the island, when you pass one on a path in their golf cart, they stop and wait for you to go by. As all “great” places, Little Palm makes that extra effort to insure your comfort and enjoyment. There is an espresso machine, juice, soda and water in each room. USA Today is delivered to your suite each morning. At turn-down, candles are lit in your room and there are book lights and water set on each side of the bed. A canvas bag is provided with towels to take to the beach or pool. Binoculars are available for searching the waters and skies, umbrellas are provided for the occasional shower and your room keys have lights in them to make it easy to find your lock when returning at night. The stationary in your room is even engraved with your name! The property is meticulously maintained where even the sandy, gravel walkways are constantly raked by staff members.
Built in 1929 by the Dorn Family and used as a retreat for family and friends 
throughout the property in the secluded woodlands. The cabins are ideal for friends or families traveling together as many have multiple bedrooms. Each accommodation is uniquely decorated with fresh flowers, quality antique furniture, “built in” cabinetry and bookshelves, vintage memorabilia, luxury draperies, monogrammed linens, thick, plush towels (that have a wonderful fragrance) and all have at least one wood burning fireplace.
and mastered each station in the kitchen before being promoted to sous chef, where she deepened her relationships with local farmers and purveyors to source the freshest seasonal ingredients for the lodge’s two restaurants. In 2014, Steffan set out to learn the secrets of artisan bread making at The Old School Bakery in Colorado Springs, Colo., before returning to Pennsylvania to join Glendorn’s culinary team.
choices include; homemade granola, buttermilk pancakes topped with Pennsylvania maple syrup, fresh local cage free farm eggs, breakfast sausages made in house from Heritage breed pork and more.
From patient Orvis endorsed guides, Shane and Damon, who taught us to fly fish, to Natalia’s beautifully choreographed dining staff, to housekeepers who always seemed to get to my room before I did, to Director of Hotel Operations Stephanie Schafer, the service level was as good as we have ever experienced. While you expect that at a Relais property, it is such a pleasure to experience it first hand. Complimentary coffee, tea and mineral water are always available as are jars of delicious chocolate chip cookies.
Set high above the crashing waves, overlooking Carmel Bay, 
overlooking the private gardens or the first fairway. But it is really the Ocean View rooms that make this a very special place. With panoramic views of the 18th fairway and Stillwater Cove, a wood burning fireplace and a patio or balcony, these rooms are nothing short of spectacular.
Great, cozy, masculine pub with wonderful collection of Pebble Beach memorabilia. Perfect for an after golf drink or a dinner of prime steaks or delicious comfort food. Popcorn shrimp, prime rib chili, steaks, chops, short ribs and meatloaf. So good…. An outstanding selection of draft and bottled beers and televised sporting events also make this a perfect stop on a rainy day. Lunch, Dinner and Late-Night Supper
world” and “sets the standard for others”; from the “fantastic, flawless” rooms and “stunning setting” to the ‘luxurious” service, “exceptional dining” and “lovely spa”, it’s not just for duffers ” but if you do play and have “buckets of money”, ‘why would you stay anywhere else?” ZAGAT
guestrooms and private mountain cabins, a new base lodge, upscale retail shops (think Ralph Lauren), a marvelous 21,000 sq. ft spa and wellness center and a fantastic Bob Cupp designed golf course. It is the only ski-in, ski-out resort in New England
and outdoor pool area, had a sitting area with couch, leather chair, reading lamp and fireplace. Decorated in rich shades of gold, hunter green and burgundy with Vermont themed watercolors and photography, it had a Queen feather bed, luxury bamboo linens and down duvet, a large flat screen TV and custom made lamps by Simon Pearce. There is a small kitchenette with burners, microwave, refrigerator and service for two with Simon Pearce tableware. The large marble bath had a soaking tub and separate glass shower with Anichini towels from Vermont and Mario Russo bath products.
has coffees, teas, juices, smoothies, baked goods and sandwiches.
Set on 6 1/2 acres beside the famed Torrey Pines Golf Course and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the 
furniture, fabrics and carpets with a William Morris like design that give the rooms a historic yet contemporary feel. Plump beds have Egyptian cotton linens and quilted duvets. Bathrooms are oversized with a soaking tub and most rooms come with a balcony or patio.
Excellent wine list, partial to California, with a nice selection of wines by the glass and 1/2 bottles. Some favorites on the list include; Spottswoode Estate Vineyard & Winery Sauvignon Blanc, Chateau Montelena, Chardonnay, Domaine Serene, Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir, Turley Petit Syrah and Decoy, by Duckhorn, Bordeaux Blend
music; the “large”, “well-appointed rooms” are “spectacular”, combining Bose stereos with Mission-style furnishings, and the “conscientious” service is “first class”, leaving admirers “breathless.” ZAGAT
soft linens, an easy chair with an ottoman and reading lamp and a large marble topped desk. The marble bath, while small, had plush towels, a mini TV and Clarity toiletries.
of Wall Street, entertainment, media and politics. By night the restaurant is a warm and comfortable spot serving small plates, steaks and fresh fish and other comfort food.
more at home. They’ll also provide things you may have forgotten; reading glasses, a belt, and tie and so forth.
Tennessee Williams while he completed A Streetcar Named Desire. The Tennessee Williams Suite at $465 is the most expensive room, but what a treat.
THE RATES at Maison du Ville
valley in Yountville, this charming B&B sits on a half acre of beautifully sculpted gardens and is made up of three stone and brick buildings. 
tubs, window seats, fireplaces and outdoor patios. My room, #1 was spacious, had a fireplace and a great bed and shower. A couple of the rooms are very small, so choose carefully. Room #12 has a king bed, fireplace, private entrance, jetted spa tub and overlooks the pool area.
Blueberry Sour Cream Scones or Pumpkin Muffins.
warmth and coziness. Located in the Back Bay area on Boylston Street and connected to the Prudential Center, the location is ideal for both business and pleasure travelers. With only 136 rooms and 12 suites, it has the feel of an intimate boutique hotel.
equipped with luxury beds and linens, spacious bathrooms with soaking tubs and all the high tech amenities you would expect. The color palette is soothing, the setting elegant and comfortable. Great soundproofing give you wonderful city views without the noise.
water facilities, including dedicated hydrotherapy room with therapeutic tub, color therapy experiences and Vichy shower, crystal Steam Rooms, vitality pools, experience showers, and ice fountains. Quite an experience and unlike anything you have seen before.
The Mandarin chain has slowly crept up on the super luxury leaders, Four Seasons and Ritz, to become a formidable competitor in markets in which they compete together. In fact, the Mandarin has surfaced as the #1 or #2 hotel in many major cities.
the view so amazing, that we cancelled our dinner plans and ordered from room service. Our Deluxe Hudson River King room was somewhat small, but the sleek marble and glass bathroom, which was almost the size of the bedroom, more than made up for it. The bath had a soaking tub next to a large picture window where you could enjoy the views of the River while watching the bathroom TV. The glassed in shower had a regular and rainforest shower head and the toilet had a separate room unto itself. A wonderful array of Aromatherapy bath products covered just about any need.
Spectacular views create the foundation for 
pool overlooking the Hudson. This Forbes Five Star Spa is one of the best you will ever experience.
One of the things that make Mandarin special is their ability to find locations that afford a spectacular view. New York has Central Park and the river, Washington DC has the Jefferson Memorial, La Vegas has the Strip and Miami has water views from nearly every room. Set on Brickell Key,
neutral tones with splashes of color from artwork and furnishings. Beds are dressed in luxury linens and goose down duvets. Marble baths feature a separate tub, a glassed walk-in shower and Shanghai Tang amenities.
avocado and onion) and Los Choritos (mussels with caucau flavours), YAKU is the place to be Thursday – Saturday night
One example tells it all, I arrived at the hotel before my room was ready and they gave me a locker in the Spa, so that I could change and enjoy the pool while waiting.
The area is as beautiful as you remember it from the film. A boat tour will allow you to revisit the settings for many of the scenes; the boathouse, Purgatory Cove and the lakeside home.
a Jacuzzi. My room, the Stratford, was delightful with pine walls, a king 4 poster bed, comfortable reading chairs around a wood burning fireplace and decorated with wonderful antiques. The color scheme was burgundy with plaid curtains and bed canopy offset with flowered bed sham and gingham chair fabrics. The view of the lake and mountains from my windows and private porch were spectacular. When I awoke the morning of my stay it was raining and foggy. I made some coffee, lit a fire and read the paper by the fire. The dreary day didn’t seem so bad after that.
The menu changes often but here are some recent highlights and their suggested wine pairings: Lobster “Roll” Butter Poached Lobster with Crispy Wonton , Arugula and Mignonette
a magnificently renovated 1888 Victorian mansion, the 126 room MFP is located right on beautiful Forsyth Park in the heart of Savannah.
THE ROOMS at the Mansion on Forsyth
favorite place for cocktail hour and piano music. Casimir’s Lounge atop the restaurant is a favorite after dinner, offering live jazz and blues and a rooftop terrace overlooking the Park.
is an outdoor heated pool and a fitness center.
OVERVIEW of the Marshal House
overlooked Broughton Street and had rocking chairs for relaxing and watching the action on the street below. The bath had white pine walls, a pedestal sink, Bath & Body Works toiletries and thick robes and towels.
Located just two hours from Manhattan in the hills of Connecticut, the 30 room luxury inn sits on 58 gorgeous acres of gardens and woodlands and is surrounded by a 3,000 acre nature preserve.
topped mattresses, antique oriental rugs, oversized marble baths with brass and Limoges fittings, gas fireplaces, a well-stocked in-room bar, thick luxurious duvets, plump oversized pillows, linens by Frette and antique four-poster beds.
The Tap Room offers small bites, oysters, salads, sandwiches, lobster rolls, burgers, pizza, steaks and more.The Dining Room menu has an Italian bent with items like Burrata Salad with
we were offered a glass of champagne or bottled water and a hot towel with a eucalyptus fragrance. Check-in was swift and we were escorted to our room, a short drive away. Our room had a choice of pillow types and an aromatherapy device that released a choice of fragrances into the room. Downstairs in our building there were rain slickers and umbrellas for those wet days.
introduced to 
But it is the Restaurant at 
walking executive golf course, a driving range and a golf studio: the patented TrackMan technology will transform your game, monitor your swing and help you to become a better golfer.
housed in a 19th century mill. With 23 suites, the Inn is located just two blocks from the center of town, convenient to restaurants and shopping. It is a member of the prestigious “Small Luxury Hotels of the World” Collection and became a member of the “Green” Hotels Association.
quality linens and towels and Aveda toiletries add a luxury touch. Floors are covered with area rugs and the leather and fabric covered furniture is stylish and comfortable. The marble bathroom is small but has a great rainfall shower with lots of pressure. Townhouse suites, located on the 2nd and 3rd floors have two levels, a separate living room and bedroom and a private outside deck with views of the Harbor.
OVERVIEW of Mirbeau Inn
blues, the rooms are generous in size and equipped with super luxurious beds, made especially for Mirbeau….you’ll feel like you are sleeping on a cloud. Bathrooms are huge with a tiled walk-in shower (and great water pressure), claw foot soaking tubs (anything better?) and double sinks.There’s a flat screen TV, DVD player, Bose stereo system and complimentary Internet connection and coffee service.
wines from all price points from $2.50 per taste to $70.00 per glass. Selections may include top local Finger Lakes Wines, Opus One and Caymus from California, along with a wide variety of European Wines.
dipped in royal batter, gruyère, ham, scrambled eggs, whole grain mustard aioli. Dinner might start with cheese and charcuterie or French Onion Soup or perhaps Lamb Lollipops, with smoked tomato jam & goat cheese crostini. Entrees might include Goat Cheese and Herb Chicken, goat cheese & herb stuffing, artichokes, wild rice, pan jus or Steak Frites, 10oz handcut sirloin, with caramelized shallot butter, truffle fries. pair your courses from an excellent wine list, fairly priced.
coming back. 
Adirondack accessories and a comfortable fishing print chair and ottoman overlooking the Lake. The bathroom had a stone shower with dual showerheads and fat, fluffy towels. Lots of quality features here; beautiful crown moldings, flat screen TV, down comforters and pillows and wonderful local Adirondack artwork.
The Inn’s restaurants, 
lake for ice skating, rowboats, canoes and paddleboats and a truly outstanding spa. The spa is an exercise in total relaxation. Treatment rooms have luxurious appointments and fireplaces. Don’t miss the Adirondack Maple Sugar Body Scrub. Rates are surprisingly reasonable with a 50 minute massage at only $80.
Perched on a bluff above the mighty Pacific Ocean with the rugged coastline below, the 
made me feel giddy with happiness. Luxe, nearly full sized toiletries smelling of lemon verbena adorned the yellow and white striped bathroom, while a golden glow emanated from the light fixtures at the vast marble sink. It was this bathroom and the balcony overlooking the crashing waves that fought for my attention. The balcony looked out over the Montage’s elegant ocean front infinity pool, as well as one of the resort’s restaurants, perched on a bluff that seemingly arose straight from the cerulean depths. Shades of yellow, blue and white were ever present in the spacious room, replicating the sun, ocean and white sands of Laguna Beach.
with strawberry compote. Paired with a chilly New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, recommended from an intense 33 page wine list, the Loft at Montage is a “foodies” idea of food heaven.
the food is ‘divine’, the spa ‘consistently excellent’ and the setting ‘unbelievable’ with ‘everlasting’ views; there are ‘fabulous rooms…and the ‘amazing’ staff ‘knows what you want before you do’…ZAGAT
and decorated with period furnishings. All have a shower/bathtub or standing shower and Jacuzzi, 600 thread count cotton sheets, Egyptian cotton towels, IPhone docking stations, plasma cable TV’s and EcoFresh bath amenities. Beds were comfortable with down bedding and pillows.
& 2 bedroom private cottages. All are decorated with a beach theme and feature whimsical artwork and accessories, some rooms have kitchenettes and decks. Luxury beds are dressed in Frette linens and bathrooms feature plush towels and custom blended bath products.
Lobster Risotto with English pea puree and sage and pancetta to a hearty burger served on toasted brioche bun to organic salmon on a polenta cake, with truffled wild mushrooms, asparagus and hazelnut brown butter. If you are around for the Sunday brunch don’t miss the chocolate chip pancakes with blueberry compote and whipped cream.
spa treatment rooms and yoga and fitness classes. There is a complimentary Summer Children’s Program from 9-12pm each day and an Evening Children’s Program offered Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m, so parents can get a little time to themselves.
Set at the top of a sloping lawn that overlooks the Kennebunk River, the imposing yellow Mansion sits on a beautifully manicured lawn with perennial gardens and shaded by towering maple trees. Comfortable Adirondack chairs are scattered around the lawn, perfect for a lazy hour or so with a good book.
computer, iPod dock, complimentary bicycles, beach chairs and towels, a birding kit, chocolate chip cookies in your room, iced coffee and tea and lemonade in the summer and “Swedish Glogg” (a non-alcoholic mulled cider and cranberry juice) simmering in a crock-pot on the antique stove in the kitchen, a sewing kit in the bathroom, special make-up remover and towel and even a pretty good wine list.