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Mandarin Oriental, Macau: Macau

First Impression

The best thing about staying in a Mandarin Oriental property for the first time is that you already know you are guaranteed to leave a satisfied customer.  In fact, you will probably leave wanting to extend your stay.  My time at the Mandarin Oriental, Macau was no exception to this — I would have been happy to stay indefinitely.

Location

Located right on the picturesque waterfront, the hotel has a prime location, as it just minutes from the best casinos in the region and the historical center.

The Room

My spacious room was decorated with the classic Mandarin Oriental decor; a luxurious mix of East meets West.  The hotel describes it as, “a dramatic contemporary design with an atmosphere of oriental calm.”

While I was smitten with how the room was decorated, the view of the South China Sea and the Macau Tower was undeniably the best part about it.

The Bathroom

The ensuite bathroom perfectly complimented the glamorous room and had everything I could possibly need and more.

The Extras

While people who stay at the Mandarin Oriental, Macau fall hopelessly in love with their rooms, the hotel does offer an award-winning restaurant and spa on premise that will definitely compete for your attention.  There is also a stunning infinity pool that will beckon you to visit it from the moment you check in.

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

Every day I was left a little present in my room; everything from flowers to chocolate to fruit.  The hotel does this for every single guest and it definitely leaves the impression that they truly care.

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La Suite Rio: Rio de Janeiro

First Impression

My husband and I had both been Rio de Janeiro quite a few times, thus it was not necessary for us to stay in the heart of the city and since we were going to have to say an unthinkable goodbye to each other on the last day of our honeymoon due to immigration issues, seclusiveness was what we were seeking.  La Suite Rio was the perfect choice, as it is perched on top of the Joatinga cliffs, offering complete isolation from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Location

The boutique hotel with a sweeping view is located in the most glamorous part of Rio de Janeiro.  Some consider it to be the “Beverly Hills” of Brasil.  While it is not on the beach, it is only a short taxi ride away.

The Room

There are 7 suites, each assigned a different color and with the most fabulous room key I have ever seen in all of my travels.

While we were not given the pink room, which probably would have been my first choice, we were given the blue room and it could not have been more suited for us.  It had deep, dark masculine walls that appealed to my husband, however there was a gorgeous Andy Warhol print of Marilyn Monroe adjacent to a fuchsia orchid that pulled at my heartstrings.

Another special touch included in the King sized bedroom was an iPod that had thousands of songs already downloaded onto it.

The blue room also happened to have the largest private patio of all of the suites.

The Bathroom

The spacious en suite bathroom was as luxurious as they come, as it was draped in marble that matched the wall color of the bedroom and it contained L’occitane products.

The Extras

Brasilians take their sun worshipping seriously, thus there are 2 pools on the premises.  My favorite was the 66 foot infinity pool with a sheer drop into the Atlantic Ocean.  The surrounding grounds were expertly landscaped with tropical flora.

Breakfast, which is included in the room rate, is served on on the main terrace.  Honestly, I am not sure if the meal or the view was better; they were both unforgettable.

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

I could have spent days admiring every single detail found throughout the hotel.  The owners have collected items from their travels around the world, as well as local flee-markets, to create the perfectly balanced ambience.

The detail that most took my breath away though was the Philippe Starck, my favorite designer/architect, Baccarat mirror and chandelier in the lobby of the hotel.  When I saw it, I instantly knew that I was in the right place.

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Pousada Maravilha: Fernando de Noronha, Brasil

First Impression

Our entire honeymoon was planned around visiting Fernando de Noronha and since it was both my husband and I’s ultimate dream destination and such a challenge to get to we knew there was no other choice than to stay at the most luxurious property on the entire island: Pousada Maravilha.  I must extend my gratitude to Kiwi Collection for introducing us to, as its name would suggest, this marvelous place.  As we walked into the lobby we instantly knew we were in trouble.  We had grand plans to explore every inch of the fabled archipelago, however once we saw our surroundings we knew we probably would not leave the hotel for the entire 3 days that we were there.

Location

Fernando de Noronha is an UNESCO World Heritage Site that is fiercely protected by the Brasilian government, which only allows a certain number of visitors per day.  When you arrive, you must pay an environmental preservation fee that is worth every penny.  The 21 islets truly have some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world.  Someone from the hotel will be at the airport awaiting your arrival in order to escort you to Pousada Maravilha.

The Room

In all honesty, while Pousada Maravilha is a stunning hotel, one does not visit for the room, rather the pool (scroll down for more information).  Our favorite part of the beautifully decorated room, however, is the spacious balcony with a view to-die-for.

In case you cannot find the energy in the morning to walk to the restaurant, it is possible to have breakfast, which is included in the rate, delivered to the room free of charge.  As honeymooners, we definitely took advantage of this perk every day.

The Bathroom

The large en suite bathroom has a tropical feel to it and there is also an outdoor shower appointed to every room.

The Extras

The hotel’s restaurant is pricey, but the food is so delicious that you quickly forget about the bill.  I had a petit gateau nightly that I daydream about on a regular basis.  In fact, every single meal we had in Fernando de Noronha was there and we would not have had it any other way.  The only thing we consumed outside of the restaurant was our afternoon caipirinhas – those we enjoyed by the nearby pool.

In the lobby are plush couches and tables containing books and games for public use when you need a break from the strong Brasilian sun.  There is also a chic boutique with glamorous clothes and accessories, so that you can look your absolute best amongst your fellow jetsetters.

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

I cannot imagine a more perfect pool than the one at Pousada Maravilha.  Not only is the view from it glorious, but the water was always the right temperature and the adjacent sunbeds could not have been more comfortable and inviting.  In my lifetime, besides when I was a competitive swimmer, I have never spent more time in a pool and I still departed wishing that I had spent even more time in it.

Just in case you want to escape the pool, there are other options than returning to your room.

Pousada Picinguaba: Pousada Picinguaba, Brasil

First Impression

I believe the perfect honeymoon is not about the destination, rather it is about the precious time a couple spends together celebrating their new path in life.  Which is why my husband and I decided that we had to visit Pousada Picinguaba, because there we could truly escape the distractions in life, as the hotel had no TVs, no Internet, and no telephone reception, and focus completely on each other.

Location

Pousada Picinguaba is situated half-way between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo in a quiet, seaside village.  The hotel is tucked away on a hill surrounded by the ultimate in natural beauty — with a view so magnificent it takes your breath away.  There are only 10 rooms, ensuring seclusion and exceptional and attentive service.

The Room

While the decor in the honeymoon suite is simple, it has everything newlyweds could want and more.  The comfortable King size bed is draped in a romantic mosquito netting.  Every day cold, fresh water is brought to the room and placed on the large dining table in the middle of the room.  The orchids and candles that decorate the room add to its rustic charm.

The Bathroom

Adjacent to the bed is an amazing jacuzzi that is reason enough to visit Pousada Picinguaba.  There is also a separate en suite bathroom that contains a shower.

The Extras

Only the honeymoon suite has a spacious balcony with an inviting hammock that overlooks the sea.  Many nights were spent swinging in the hammock watching the sun set over this tropical hideaway.  Breakfasts are included in the room price and like all typical Brasilian breakfasts are large and delicious.

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

This charming pousada wins my heart over with its magnificent pool that is surrounded by the very best of what Brasil has to offer.

Pousada Picinguaba’s philosophy, which they achieve effortlessly, is luxury means tranquility, nature, and authenticity.

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Villas De Trancoso: Trancoso, Brasil

First Impression

We did not know much about Trancoso before visiting, other than that its beaches were supposedly gorgeous, which was enough to make my ocean-loving husband and I want to begin our honeymoon there.  Of course the idea of having a villa all to ourselves made it that much more appealing after spending the previous two weeks constantly surrounded by family and friends for our wedding.  Villas de Trancoso truly was like walking into another world — a world more beautiful than words and pictures could ever possibly capture.

Location

Villas de Trancoso is located several miles away from the historical village of Trancoso, built along the beaches of Bahia.  This luxury boutique hotel and pousada is the perfect tropical escape whether you are on your honeymoon, traveling solo, or on a family holiday.  To get there one must first travel to Puerto Seguro and from there it is an hour’s car ride to Trancoso.

The Room

Our 1-bedroom villa was situated near everything essential on the property’s grounds, however it was surrounded by foliage that provided us with a feeling of exclusivity and privacy.  The villa was incredibly spacious and no detail was spared.

The King sized bed was draped with mosquito netting creating a romantic ambiance, along with the exquisitely appointed lighting, traditional Brasilian decor, and the hand-carved wooden detailing found throughout.

The hammock on the terrace was my husband’s favorite part about the villa.

The Bathroom

The en-suite bathroom was equally as charming as the bedroom.  It too was also spacious and contained a “rainforest shower” that  felt like heaven after a long day at the beach.

The Extras

I have never encountered a better hotel restaurant than the one at Villas de Trancoso.  In fact, in the 5 days we had at the property, we ate all 3 meals there every single day, minus one dinner when we finally ventured into town.  My suggestion is try each dish on the menu.  It is worth traveling all the way to Trancoso just to experience the food at this gem.

Despite the fact that we were the only guests on the property (it was low season), each morning we were greeted with this delicious feast that is included with every stay.

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

Villas de Trancoso exemplifies the very best of what Brasil has to offer all in one place.  Between the lush and verdant landscaped gardens that makes one feel as though they are deep within the Amazon Rainforest to the breathtakingly beautiful beaches that Brasil is so well known for, this tropical Paradise is a true oasis.  There is also a white marbled pool where one can relax with cocktails in a sunbed or in the sunken pool bar.

A short stroll will take one directly to the beach where more comfortable sunbeds and another bar awaits.

With a view like this, how could one not fall head over heels in love?

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The Fearrington House Inn: Pittsboro, North Carolina

First Impression

In all honesty, I had no idea that The Fearrington House Inn even existed, despite that fact that it is located in my home-state just hours away from my residence, until my Travel Adviser Andrea Novick with Elite Travel International suggested that we visit this Relais and Chateaux property.  She told me in detail about how it is an award-winning establishment and I was immediately sold on traveling there together with her and my husband.  The exquisite hotel is situated inside of a village, which is surrounded by gourmet restaurants, an exclusive spa, and boutique shops.  As we entered the village, it was abundantly clear why Conde Nast Traveler ranked it as the #2 small hotel in the United States.

Location

Fearrington is a luxury community that was built around a historical farm in Pittsboro, North Carolina, near the Tri-State area.  The hotel is inside of the elegantly designed village, which currently has around 2,000 residents.

The Room

Each room in the hotel is uniquely decorated, however the theme throughout is “romantic country elegance.”  Our two-bedroom grand suite with a King size bed was incredibly spacious, with a modern fireplace in the wall separating the bedroom from the sitting room.  All we had to do was switch a button on and no matter where we were in the suite we could see, feel, and hear the fire.

There were homemade welcome chocolates and a bottle of chilled champagne awaiting our arrival.  In all of my travels around the world, I have never stayed at a place where each night I was provided port wine and truffles as part of the turndown service.

The Bathroom

The bathroom was easily my favorite part about the suite, as it was almost as large as the sitting room. Large bathrooms are the ultimate in luxury in my opinion.  It contained a jetted antique bathtub, a separate shower, two vanities, and heated towel racks with Frette bath towels.

Any hotel that provides Molton Brown bath products to their guests is an automatic 5-star in my opinion.

The Extras

Regardless of which room one chooses in The Fearrington House Inn, daily English tea time between 4-5PM is offered, complete with delicious sandwiches and/or pastries and scones.  A gourmet breakfast is also included with one’s stay.

Dinner at The Fearrington House Restaurant, a Gold Medalist, is a must one night during your stay.  Each one of my courses left me saying, “Wow!”  And please do yourself a favor and order the hot chocolate soufflé for dessert.  It has been on the menu for 20 years for a reason.

The Spa at Fearrington should not be missed either, since it a tranquil haven just a short walk away from the hotel.  My husband and I enjoyed our first couples massage there and it was absolute bliss.  It has a boutique inside of it that one could get lost inside of for hours.

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

I was completely enamored with the landscaped grounds of the village.  Not only were there several stunning gardens, but there was also a walking/biking trail.  The hotel provides free bike rentals to all of its guests.

Since this property is a member of Relais and Chateaux you know you can expect the best.  Combine that with the benefits you only receive when you book through a Virtuoso Advisor and you are a guaranteed an unforgettable stay.  If you are interested in visiting The Fearrington House Inn or need any other travel advice please contact Andrea Novick at: andrea.novick@gmail.com.

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Elysian Chicago: Chicago, Illinois

First Impression

I was smitten from the moment I walked through the Elysian’s front doors, as I was now in the land of ultimate luxury.  I could not wait to explore the entire hotel, however I was most eager to see my Deluxe Suite.  I was completely taken aback as I entered the room.  For a hotel in a major city, when space is extremely limited, it was almost impossible to believe just how large the room was!

Location

Having never been to Chicago before, I had no idea what part of the city to stay in.  Thus, I took a chance with the Gold Coast neighborhood, which is where the hotel is located.  This historical area is filled with designer boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and high-rise penthouses all within walking distance.  The Elysian fits in perfectly with its glamorous surroundings.

The Room

The bedroom in the Deluxe Suite is designed with a strong aura of simple elegance.  The bed was so comfortable that I never wanted to leave it — in fact I hardly left my room for the three days I was there.  My excuse as to why I hardly saw any of Chicago: the Elysian.

The flat-screen TV and iPod docking station were the perfect amenities in the already perfect room.

The Bathroom

You know that you are in a luxury hotel when there is a TV in the bathroom mirror.  It might be ridiculously indulgent, however I loved being entertained while relaxing in the bathtub or getting ready to go out.  I also very much enjoyed the designer bath products and terry-cloth robes.

The Extras

The Deluxe Suite had another room attached to the bedroom that functioned as a kitchen/living room/office.  In an appointed nook there was a sink, an ice maker, a refrigerator, and a microwave.

My absolute favorite part was the fireplace, which immediately turned on and filled the room with warmth with a press of a button, and that was a necessity since I was visiting in December.

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

Every luxury hotel should care about the details like the Elysian does.  No matter where you looked, there was a special touch that added sophistication and class to make certain that you would want to return over and over again for years to come.

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Villa Il Poggiale: Tuscany, Italy

First Impression

Is there anything more luxurious than staying in a villa in Tuscany?  Despite the fact that I am half-Italian and have been to the region previously, I have never had the good fortune to actually stay in one before.  And I could not think of a better place to celebrate my first Tuscan villa experience than Villa Il Poggiale.  This historical mansion is tucked away in the countryside and is one of those places where you immediately know upon first sight that you have stumbled across a real treasure.

Location

Villa Il Poggiale is located in the Chianti region of Tuscany, less than an hour’s car drive away from Florence.  It is surrounded by verdant rolling hills and family-owned vineyards.  If you are looking to escape city life this is the place to do it, as your only concern will be when you have your first glass of wine for the day.

The Bathroom

My private en-suite bathroom was everything I could have hoped for and more.  I had a large bathtub (with a heated towel rack next to it) that was perfect for soaking in after a long day of eating, drinking, and walking Italian style.

The Extras

What sets Villa Il Poggiale apart from the rest is that not only does it offer stunning and comfortable accommodations, it also offers a world-class spa, an outdoor pool, a gourmet restaurant, and guided tours of the area and other nearby cities.  However, the amenity that is my favorite is the reception room, which has two things that will take your breath away: a grand chandelier and a fully stocked bar that is available 24/hours a day.  I will forever remember drinking champagne underneath the dazzling masterpiece.

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

The villa’s grounds are some of the most beautiful I have seen in all of my travels and being surrounded by them is la docle vita at its very best.

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A special thank you is in order to Trafalgar Tours for arranging this stay.  This is an example of why they are the current leading travel company.

Wild Dunes Resort: Isle of Palms, South Carolina

First Impression

Charleston, South Carolina is without a doubt one of my favorite cities in the world.  I treasured every second of the time that I went to College there and even more so when I moved out to the Isle of Palms; a gorgeous barrier island right off the coast that is only accessible via a bridge.  Wild Dunes Resort is arguably the heart and soul of the island and is one of the leading resorts in the United States.  It was there that I chose to celebrate my graduation with my family.  Now I returned, years later, however this time I was on a romantic getaway and would be experiencing a different side of both the island and the resort.  The resort is massive — occupying 1,600 acres of private, oceanfront property — with accommodations ranging from hotel rooms to condos to private homes.

Despite its grandeur, it is still possible to feel as though you are the only one on the island, especially if you visit during the off-season when there are less tourists and yet the weather is still lovely.

Location

The island is about a thirty minute drive from the historical city of Charleston and is defined by the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean.

The Room

I stayed in a two-bedroom, oceanfront condo.  It was tucked away at the very end of the resort, which afforded me more privacy.  The master bedroom is spacious and attached to it is an equally spacious balcony that has a table and chairs with a sweeping view of the ocean.  The ultimate in luxury to me is being able to lay in your bed and hear the sounds of the ocean in the distance.

The second bedroom, which is designed for children, is also a comfortable size.

The Bathroom

There are two modern bathrooms attached to both bedrooms that are equipped with all of the necessary amenities.

The Extras

The living/dining room is the perfect size regardless of how many people are staying in the condo.  It contains a flat screen TV and high speed internet, in case you do not want to disconnect completely on your vacation.  It also has a fully equipped kitchen for all of your cooking needs.

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

While I immensely enjoyed being able to walk out of the condo and onto the beach within minutes, my favorite thing about my stay at the Wild Dunes Resort were the breathtaking sunsets at night.  Nothing is more romantic than the backdrop of pink skies.

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