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Ultra-Luxury Hotels

I love staying in "nice" hotels...and I've traveled a lot but always with a reasonable budget. Has anyone here stayed in a hotel that is in the "ultra luxury" category like the Ritz Paris or similar. Do you think it was worth it? Is it maybe one of those bucket list things you should charge to your card before you go? It's crazy to think every night is about $1350 & how much that would buy... but who knows if it could be some kind of transcendent experience. Also on the other hand, why pay so much for a hotel room if you're going to be doing tourist stuff all day?

by Anonymousreply 242November 18, 2019 11:03 PM

I don’t go above $500 a night because that’s my max I can afford. Love luxury hotels though, it’s one extravagance I will gladly pay for.

by Anonymousreply 1August 11, 2019 6:19 PM

I’ve never been in a room that cost more than $200 a night. What am I missing?

by Anonymousreply 2August 11, 2019 6:22 PM

Yeah r1 - that's my max pretty much, though I try for 300 usually. I like browsing through the fancy ones online but the prices are nuts.

R2 - it's usually the service, nicer bedding, nicer furnishings, nicer bathrooms ... plus many have spas & pools on top of fairly good restaurants (though not always). I stayed at a $100/night Hyatt that was amazing... it was a biz traveler hotel so the M-Th rates were 300+ and 100 on the weekends.

by Anonymousreply 3August 11, 2019 6:24 PM

The ratio of increased pleasure to value isn’t worth it. If you can get a really nice room for under $500 that’s been discounted from over $750, maybe it’s ok for a special night. But now with Airbnb, you can get a deluxe home for $500 night that is really worth it.

I’ve found I’d rather pend less than $300 night and stay twice as long,

by Anonymousreply 4August 11, 2019 6:25 PM

R2 it’s mostly the service. Everything is thought of and done to the highest standards. For example, you’ll never see cleaning carts in the hallways but your room will be cleaned as soon as you leave it, no matter if it’s morning or afternoon. Staff will know whether to make small talk or just shut up. It’s difficult to describe but it’s worth it.

by Anonymousreply 5August 11, 2019 6:29 PM

I stayed at the Ritz in London briefly. I wasn’t paying. The rooms were like living in a fancy private home. However, I felt uncomfortable dressed casually in public spaces. It’s the kind of place where you’re expected to be in a suit all the time.

by Anonymousreply 6August 11, 2019 6:42 PM

Ritz Paris three times. Hotel du Cap Eden Roc. They are nice. Mostly it is the service moreso than anything else.

by Anonymousreply 7August 11, 2019 6:54 PM

I got an incredible discount once for a five-star luxury hotel in Sorrento (it was because I was there in early November). The main things I remember were the interiors were so beautiful, with hand-painted tiles on the floors everywhere.

by Anonymousreply 8August 11, 2019 6:56 PM

I hope HBO comes with that price tag.

by Anonymousreply 9August 11, 2019 6:58 PM

Anyone who is interested in this thread, go to YouTube and watch the 3 episode documentary "A Very British Hotel." It's about London's Mandarin Oriental Hotel.

by Anonymousreply 10August 11, 2019 7:08 PM

I’ve stayed in some nice hotels, but nothing that would be considered top drawer! Does the Ritz Carlton count? I thought some of the more bohemian niche hotels I’ve been to were more interesting. I do enjoy having drinks at fine hotels to at least experience the lobby.

I’ve stayed in some downright seedy and repulsive places too, which could be another thread. One in Memphis with no lock on the door, just a chain and people screaming all night. I slept on top of the bedspread and didn’t take off my shoes. I drank shots of tequila in order to sleep.

by Anonymousreply 11August 11, 2019 7:14 PM

[quote]Does the Ritz Carlton count?

No.

by Anonymousreply 12August 11, 2019 7:17 PM

The Four Seasons does count. It’s the Holiday Inn for the 1%. Mandarin Oriental too.

by Anonymousreply 13August 11, 2019 7:20 PM

It is difficult to describe but it is SO not worth it. I have stayed in a few for work and while the level of service is exquisite when I pay, I go cheap. Clean sheets is enough for me.

by Anonymousreply 14August 11, 2019 7:22 PM

The Peninsula is worth it. Some locations are better than others. Though I don't make a habit of it, or take the experience for granted, I've not regretted it. The Ritz Paris and Mandarin Oriental were nice experiences too. In London I prefer smaller hotels.

by Anonymousreply 15August 11, 2019 7:44 PM

Which Peninsula and which Mandarin Oriental, r15?

There are many hotels with those names in multiple world capitals.

by Anonymousreply 16August 11, 2019 7:48 PM

I stayed at Circus Circus in Las Vegas once. Talk about class!

by Anonymousreply 17August 11, 2019 7:48 PM

^^Yes, I know. Its buffet is to die for.

by Anonymousreply 18August 11, 2019 7:56 PM

Really depends on what you want. 90% of a stay for me is the room, view, decor, location. I don’t care about service. As such most 5-star hotels aren’t worth it for me. It would pain me to pay hundreds more per night for “service”.

I stayed at the Chatueau Eze in south of France in a room at the “top” of the hotel and village overlooking the Riviera. Stunning stonewalled cave room carved into the top of the hill with expansive terrace, spectacular food and you essentially had the whole medieval village to ourself after tourists left at night. Probably the only hotel that was worth the $ for me.

by Anonymousreply 19August 11, 2019 8:00 PM

A list of Peninsula hotels:

*The Peninsula Beijing

*The Peninsula Shanghai

*The Peninsula Paris

*The Peninsula Hong Kong

*The Peninsula Tokyo

* The Peninsula Manila

* The Peninsula Bangkok

*The Peninsula Beverly Hills

* The Peninsula Chicago

The Peninsula New York

A list of Mandarin Oriental Hotels:

*Bangkok

*Barcelona

*Bodrum

*Boston

*Geneva

*Guangzhou

*Hong Kong

*Jakarta

* Kuala Lumpur

*London (Hyde Park)

*Macau

*Madrid (Ritz Hotel)

*Miami

*Munich

*New York City

*Paris

*Santiago de Chile (Hotel Santiago)

*Sanya

*Singapore

*Taipei

*Tokyo

*Washington, D.C.

by Anonymousreply 20August 11, 2019 8:05 PM

[quote] you essentially had the whole medieval village to [bold]ourself[/bold] after tourists left at night.

Do you have multiple personalities?

by Anonymousreply 21August 11, 2019 8:06 PM

I have stayed at a few, truly five-star hotels: Mandarin Oriental NYC, Peninsula Shanghai, Georges V (Four Seasons) Paris, the Langham London.

The location is better than most hotels. The service is impeccable. The rooms are, usually, extravagantly decorated. The amenities are nearly endless. BUT...

You pay for it all. I was retrieved at Pudong by a driver in a black suit and white gloves for my stay at the Peninsula Shanghai. The location on the Bund was fantastic; the view unparalleled. When you are paying north of $1500 a night, I guess hotels figure you won't mind paying $400 more for that fancy ride from the airport, or notice the $20 they tack on for each bottle of refrigerated bottle you drink in your room.

by Anonymousreply 22August 11, 2019 8:16 PM

They give you bottles of bottles R22, next time ask them to put some water in them.

by Anonymousreply 23August 11, 2019 8:26 PM

Cut r22 some slack. He obviously meant bottle of bottoms. They do think if everything.

by Anonymousreply 24August 11, 2019 8:40 PM

If everything is almost as good as a bottle of bottles.

by Anonymousreply 25August 11, 2019 9:31 PM

Poster from above here. I had to laugh when I got a cheeseburger late night room service at Ritz Paris and it was $68.00 US. For the burger. Only. No drinks etc.

by Anonymousreply 26August 11, 2019 9:42 PM

I stayed at the Ritz in Madrid which is not part of the chain I think, but still a 5 start hotel. My cc gave me a stay for 3 pay for 2 night deal, so I figured what the fuck. Checking in was a dream. Sitting down at a desk with a concierge to map out my stay. I wanted a smoking room and he got very panicked as they had none ready. He sent me into the bar and told me, anything I order was on the house until the room was ready. You know how many snacks and drinks you can order in 45 minutes? Alot!

Then room was ready. Each floor had it's own distinctive scent. At the top of the stars of each floor was a huge vase with that floor's flowers. All of your bath products matched that scent. The room was to die for. I didn't want to leave. An hour after I checked in, room service sent up a "welcome cake and cava" on the house.

Breakfast was included and it was a phenomenal experience. Elegant service and really nice environment

Part of my deal included a ride in a limo back to the airport. Truly wonderful except the driver was an old guy who stank like a week old fish.

by Anonymousreply 27August 11, 2019 10:39 PM

The Ritz hotels are not a chain. Each is privately owned. The one in Madrid is managed by Mandarin Oriental.

They are separate from Ritz-Carlton which is owned by Marriott.

by Anonymousreply 28August 11, 2019 10:51 PM

It’s tough for me to pay a lot for a hotel room. I’m just sleeping there and using the bathroom! Why does that cost so much money? I’m not taking the furniture with me....

I understand that owning and operating a hotel is expensive but $500 and up a night is a month’s rent payment for a lot of people. Though I do love a fancy hotel and definitely understand the appeal.

by Anonymousreply 29August 11, 2019 11:04 PM

Ugh this thread is SOOO non-U

by Anonymousreply 30August 11, 2019 11:05 PM

I've stayed in many luxe hotels, and saying if they're worth it or not is relative. Off-the-charts luxury is something I've enjoyed at Raffles (Singapore), Manele Bay (Lana'i), L'Hotel (Paris). It's truly a bucket list thing--my husband really loves luxury. It's tough sometimes to spend a lot of money in cities as you're generally out of the hotel early and return late. I will spend anything for a great room at a beach resort, though, as I spend a lot of time in the room. Honestly, one of the best beds I ever had was at a Holiday Inn Express.

by Anonymousreply 31August 11, 2019 11:08 PM

London's Mandarin Oriental is nice, yes, had been an old Gentleman's club, ir.has many fans. But for me top-drawer London hotel-wise is Brown's, a jewel of a house. It's luxe. Luxe. The Connaught is nice too..

by Anonymousreply 32August 12, 2019 12:08 AM

How is The Savoy in London?

by Anonymousreply 33August 12, 2019 12:15 AM

I understand the service levels at luxury hotels is what you pay for, but I just can't understand paying so much for staying in a room for so little time. The nicest hotels I've stayed at are The Somerset in Turks and Caicos, The Westin in Vancouver and The Iroquois in NYC. I know its not a "luxury" hotel, but the Embassy Suites in Savannah is amazing.

by Anonymousreply 34August 12, 2019 12:17 AM

I've done a few in the $500 - $600 range.

Anything higher than that, you're mostly paying for the fact that it's super exclusive and you are shielded from the general public.

OR

You're paying for location.

There's only so much elegance they can really give you in a hotel room or suite with all the moving pieces that entails (changing linens, etc.) and it's rare to be at anything where they give you, like, your own personal butler or waitstaff, etc. No one on this board would be doing that, that's for sure.

by Anonymousreply 35August 12, 2019 12:20 AM

I find the more expensive hotels charge for everything.

by Anonymousreply 36August 12, 2019 12:20 AM

I agree R36. I wanted to stay at the Fontainbleu in Miami but didn't because it seemed as if they nickle & dime you.

[quote]Honestly, one of the best beds I ever had was at a Holiday Inn Express.

OMG! I stayed at the Holiday Inn on Highland Ave. in LA and the bed was so comfortable.

by Anonymousreply 37August 12, 2019 12:26 AM

[quote]You're paying for location.

The Ritz Carlton in Montreal and the Marriott Marquis in Times Square both fit this description.

by Anonymousreply 38August 12, 2019 12:28 AM

I stayed at a very expensive hotel for work. They charged 40 dollars a day for internet access. I needed it for work. It was horrible. I called the front desk asking them how they could charge 40 dollars a day for shitty internet? I mean less than 1 Mbs. They told me my complaint was noted. That was it.

by Anonymousreply 39August 12, 2019 12:29 AM

I stayed at the Four Seasons in St. Louis in a room right across from the arch. It was nice enough, but didn't wow me. If work wasn't paying for it, I would have never ended up there, and I don't think it's worth the price they do charge.

One of my favorite hotels is the Renaissance Paris Vendome Hotel. Marriott claims it's a 5 star. We were escorted up to our room where wine and snacks were waiting. It wasn't a huge room, but it was beautifully decorated. That being said - I paid for the room with points and I don't see myself ever actually paying $500 a night for a hotel room. It would really have to be a situation where I had no choice to do that.

by Anonymousreply 40August 12, 2019 12:50 AM

The Savoy is tops, too. I know the lobby, like the tea room. Very top-drawer. No experience upstairs. Claridge's, too. The Dorchester. That's about it for the top London hotels. .Fine linen, supurb service, everything plump and plush. You do get what you pay for.

by Anonymousreply 41August 12, 2019 12:50 AM

High-end hotels can get you anything you want, which is what I like. Last minute dinner reservations anyplace, concert tickets.

by Anonymousreply 42August 12, 2019 12:58 AM

Unless you have millions, high end hotels are a waste of money. You can have the same experience for less than half the price if you budget a good 3-star hotel. Someone kissing your ass for 60 seconds when checking in is not worth $1,000. And as someone above said, you PAY for all the extras in addition to the room price plus tax.

by Anonymousreply 43August 12, 2019 1:04 AM

R31 Raffles in Singapore was divine. Have you been since the reno? I haven't, but am curious. I have expat friends there, but they never go to Raffles.

by Anonymousreply 44August 12, 2019 1:05 AM

R41 Claridge's is one of my faves. They used to be very tolerant of smoking, and had the most beautiful ashtrays.

by Anonymousreply 45August 12, 2019 1:07 AM

Did you steal one, r45?

by Anonymousreply 46August 12, 2019 1:17 AM

Does the Days Inn in Glendale count as a luxury hotel?

by Anonymousreply 47August 12, 2019 1:18 AM

If you stay at the Dayton Airport Ramada Inn, you can hear Mary Wilson open for the DeBarge Cover Band.

by Anonymousreply 48August 12, 2019 1:20 AM

r48 that aint a cover band,

by Anonymousreply 49August 12, 2019 1:51 AM

Budget hotels and VERY high end hotels will do complementary things like internet access, but yes, you all are right....it can be the somewhat expensive ones - the ones in that 300-400 range - where you think it might be included but it's all extra charges.

Those are also usually the cunts who charge $50 for parking (or more).

by Anonymousreply 50August 12, 2019 2:03 AM

R46 I have two. Steal is a dubious word. They may have slipped into a suitcase. I have a larger one, as well as a small one, both Revol Paris china. A nice gilt edge, and the armorial device.

by Anonymousreply 51August 12, 2019 2:06 AM

R40 -- I love the Renaissance Paris Vendôme, too. Although I am anti-Marriott anything, this is my exception. I stumbled upon it while booked in Le Metropolitan, which was recommended by a friend. After one night in a room that reeked of cigarettes and had thin, rough sheets and towels, I went out to get some coffee and pastries.

R33 -- The Savoy in London is a solid four-star hotel. Its location is highly desirable, on the Strand, but like a lot of historic hotels, the room feels old and a bit rundown. Odd layouts, too. But the service is extraordinary.

"Bottles of refrigerated water"

by Anonymousreply 52August 12, 2019 2:09 AM

What R31 said.

I have even been upgraded to large suites because my company uses these hotels a lot and because I personally do a lot of traveling.

They've been amazing, larger than the apartment I live in, ridiculous linens and towels, a butler on call.

But if I'm there for work it means I leave the room at 8 AM and return at 9PM and so don't really get to enjoy it much. And I'm only likely there for two nights, so even less chance to enjoy it. Sort of like when you fly first class on an overnight flight. Yes they have great food and drink and sometimes there's even a free massage, but if I have a 6-hour window to sleep, I'm going to eat before I get on the plane, not drink, and pretty much crash the second you tell me it's okay to turn the seat into a bed.

OTOH, I've stayed at some ultra-luxury beach resorts on family vacations and those were more about having a suite big enough for all four of us (parents me and my brother) and at the resort, the beaches and pools aren't crowded, food is amazing, there's a general sense of relaxation and quiet and all that.

I'm pretty sure it was the Four Seasons in Nevis, they had people who'd go around and spray you with Evian water while you sat by the pool. The first two times it was kind of fun, after that it was just awkward, like "if I'm hot I can just jump into the pool, you coming over to me every 20 minutes and me having to disengage from my book or my conversation to interact with you is getting annoying AF."

I was also 20 or 21, so that might have had something to do with it lol

by Anonymousreply 53August 12, 2019 2:11 AM

I have two words: The Carlyle.

by Anonymousreply 54August 12, 2019 2:14 AM

^^I should add that sometimes I have an hour or so to return to the room, drop off my laptop and shower and change before heading out to dinner with the client.

When I come back to the room that night, someone will have tidied up the bathroom and put out fresh towels.

Which is nicer than not having fresh towels all lined up again, but....

by Anonymousreply 55August 12, 2019 2:19 AM

R52 The Renaissance Chicago is nice too. (Wacker Drive) The lobby bar is luxe with a pianist, and often a string quartet. Great place to cocktail and nosh on small plates. I like places like the VIP Lounge to meet up with friends before going out, or for tea. It surprisingly doesn't have five-star room rates.

by Anonymousreply 56August 12, 2019 2:20 AM

And for whoever posted about the Fontainebleau above, it's nothing special though worth seeing for the lobby bar and the photo exhibit of all the Rat Pack era stars who stayed there back in the day.

The Nobu at the Eden Roc next door has nicer rooms and is less crowded too.

Though not sure I'd put either in the "ultraluxury" category.

by Anonymousreply 57August 12, 2019 2:24 AM

R54 Back in my NY days I was a regular. They had the best soap too, those yellow full- sized-floral scented bars. So much of the service there was unparalleled outside of London or Paris.

by Anonymousreply 58August 12, 2019 2:29 AM

I’ve been lucky to travel for work around the world the last decade so I’ve had opportunities to stay at deluxe hotels for free. A lot of it depends on the city. I’ve stayed in gorgeous hotels in Hong Kong Dubai and London. They emphasis on service is so nice and you really are treated well. I’ve become a bit of a hotel snob the last few years.

Having said that my favorite hotel in New York is The Gramercy Park Hotel. I LOVE that hotel.

by Anonymousreply 59August 12, 2019 2:31 AM

I traveled a lot with work in my past job. The level of service and amenities you get are sublime: free room service, cocktail parties in VIP lounges, private restaurant exclusions, upgrades with spa services and exceptional customer service.

by Anonymousreply 60August 12, 2019 2:51 AM
by Anonymousreply 61August 12, 2019 11:22 AM

If you have status in their loyalty programs the perks and be nice. I travel for work so I am Titanium level and Diamond level in two travel programs. I get 2 room upgrades and usually get suites. The internet is free as is the club level access and with all this - they still fucking charge 30-50 dollars a night to park and a "resort fee." which is total bullshit.

by Anonymousreply 62August 12, 2019 1:24 PM
by Anonymousreply 63August 12, 2019 10:24 PM

I thought the Diamond or Titanium level led to the alley.

by Anonymousreply 64August 13, 2019 12:45 AM

[quote]How is The Savoy in London?

Too much stomping.

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by Anonymousreply 65August 13, 2019 2:01 AM

[quote]I hope HBO comes with that price tag.

Anything over $300 and they should throw in a man-whore for the evening.

by Anonymousreply 66August 13, 2019 2:02 AM

I am pretty much over acquiring things, so staying at a high-end hotel has become a nice way to enjoy myself.

by Anonymousreply 67August 13, 2019 2:13 AM

According to Forbes ranking, the Carlyle has slipped to a four star hotel but I have to question the way they rank. They give five stars to some hotels in Toronto but the top hotels in Dallas and Houston only have four stars. Hard to believe.

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by Anonymousreply 68August 14, 2019 7:39 PM

I've stayed at some of the best hotels in the world and they were basically disappointing. I found that I had nicer furniture and linens in my home. Same with the bathroom. My shower is designed just like I want with rainhead shower and lots of jets. The amount that I might spend for five nights in an ultra luxury hotel basically is more than I spent to outfit my bedroom and bath in the highest standard.

by Anonymousreply 69August 14, 2019 7:52 PM

The Carlyle is kinda dated. It sure what the big attraction is - except maybe size and apartment-type layout.

by Anonymousreply 70August 14, 2019 7:52 PM

"And so next time I go to Disney I am definitely NOT going to stay at the Grand Floridian again! There is no need to ever leave home!"

by Anonymousreply 71August 14, 2019 7:59 PM

The Plaza in New York only gets four stars according to Forbes. Quel dump.

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by Anonymousreply 72August 14, 2019 8:09 PM

[quote]I've stayed at some of the best hotels in the world and they were basically disappointing. I found that I had nicer furniture and linens in my home. Same with the bathroom. My shower is designed just like I want with rainhead shower and lots of jets. The amount that I might spend for five nights in an ultra luxury hotel basically is more than I spent to outfit my bedroom and bath in the highest standard.

Just never happy...

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by Anonymousreply 73August 14, 2019 8:38 PM

[quote]The Plaza in New York only gets four stars according to Forbes. Quel dump.

Judging from the "suddenly-it's-1960" lampshade in the pic at R72, I can certainly understand why.

by Anonymousreply 74August 14, 2019 10:15 PM

Some of those are what I call the "grande dame" hotels. They have a reputation but age has diminished them. They might retain some of that glamour or a stately finery in the main areas, but the rooms are usually lacking.

by Anonymousreply 75August 14, 2019 10:18 PM

What is the meaning of a 5 star hotel?

The 5-star hotel star rating system aims to rate hotels based on the quality and amount of amenities they provide their customers. ... Probable amenities include valet parking, room service, and a fitness center and/or pool.

What is the criteria for 5 star hotel?

Requirement of a five star hotel such as daily room cleaning, dining table and chair in room, best reception services, extended breakfast, publicly available telephone for guests, mini refrigerator in the hotel every room, deposit possibility and of the rooms with 35” Samsung TV-color together with remote control.

What makes a luxury hotel?

A Luxury Hotel is considered a hotel which provides a luxurious accommodation experience to the guest. There are no set standards (such as stars) for luxury hotels. Often 4 or 5 star hotels describe themselves as 'luxury'.

Is there a 6 star hotel?

Some of the first-class amenities that separate a six-star from a five-star hotel include private in-room chefs and butlers, on-call chauffeurs and private pools. These posh perks that come with a six-star hotel, of course also come with a hefty price tag; rooms in many of these hotels average about $1,000 per night.

Is there a 8 star hotel?

Burj Al Arab, located in Dubai, United Arab Emirate, is the world's only 8-star hotel. The symbolic hotel has attracted international attention with its most photographed structures in the world and its service. ... It is an iconic structure that mimics the sail of a ship.

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by Anonymousreply 76August 14, 2019 10:20 PM

[quote]Some of those are what I call the "grande dame" hotels.

THIS is the grande dame of hotels!

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by Anonymousreply 77August 14, 2019 10:24 PM

There is no such thing as an 8 star hotel. It's all about hype and marketing.

by Anonymousreply 78August 14, 2019 10:43 PM

Yeah I’ve been to Dubai and there’s nothing that could possibly make up for the shitty location. 8 stars my ass.

by Anonymousreply 79August 14, 2019 11:05 PM

Wait what do you mean r79? The location of Dubai or that particular hotel?

by Anonymousreply 80August 14, 2019 11:08 PM

R80 the location, the heat, the MUSLIMS everywhere. I couldn’t wait to get the fuck out of there.

by Anonymousreply 81August 14, 2019 11:09 PM

That is hilarious. But I thought Dubai is supposed to be so sophisticated and Westernized?

by Anonymousreply 82August 14, 2019 11:54 PM

Burj Al Arab. Tres gaudy.

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by Anonymousreply 83August 14, 2019 11:56 PM

Though the trend for grey decor in Europe and America is getting tiresome.

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by Anonymousreply 84August 14, 2019 11:58 PM

I have been very lucky and stayed at many luxury hotels. Among my favorites:

MO Shanghai. Incredible views and the best breakfast I have ever had. So many stations. Also, a great pool and gym. The Palace and the Amman in Tokyo. Incredible (I also like the Peninsula, and the Mandarin Oriental in Tokyo, but there is something very special about the Palace) Peninsula and 4S in New York. Flawless.

Worst 'luxury" hotel...the Park Hyatt Chicago. WTF???? Awful.

by Anonymousreply 85August 15, 2019 12:31 AM

Fuck Dubai, fuck it right up the ass.

by Anonymousreply 86August 15, 2019 1:30 AM

The Goring in London. I much prefer the boutique hotels that provide individual rooms with decor that respects quality. In Rome, the Hotel D’Inghilterra had 100% linen sheets, frescoes in the ceiling and walls, Carerra-marble-everything bathrooms, and spacious rooms with beautiful antiques. If you spend no time in your room, don’t bother. But there may come a time when you do spend time enjoying luxury suites. Then they are worth every penny. Also, nothing beats luxury hotels in Asia!

by Anonymousreply 87August 15, 2019 1:37 AM

I'm confused, is the five star rating system an industry rating given by hotel-type people/owners or a standard judged by the public? I've stayed in luxury hotels (although whether they were 5-star I don't actually know as I don't follow hotel ratings and I've never stayed in any of the ones yet mentioned). Similarly to R69, they're nice, but it's still a hotel. And although my home may not be as glamorous, I like my own coffee maker, I like to poop in my own toilet, I like my pillows blankets and bed, I like my water pressure and that I know how to adjust the faucet to get the exact temperature needed, etc.. I appreciate a meal out once in a while, but I like my kitchen and making food there. I find any hotel accommodations, even very fancy ones very impersonal. With that said, obviously something more posh is always nice, but I always do wonder how much is too much for luxury. With that said, they've always been expensed due to work, and the only one I paid for out of pocket was the Disney Grand Floridian. But I don't think that's considered 5 stars.

by Anonymousreply 88August 15, 2019 2:24 AM

[quote]... my home may not be as glamorous, I like my own coffee maker, I like to poop in my own toilet, I like my pillows blankets and bed, I like my water pressure and that I know how to adjust the faucet to get the exact temperature needed, etc.. I appreciate a meal out once in a while, but I like my kitchen and making food there.

How quaint....

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by Anonymousreply 89August 15, 2019 2:32 AM

The Amstel, Amsterdam's finest hotel was indeed stunning. Fit for royalty I lucked out and got upgraded from my 400 a night room to a 1,000 a night large suite that had 2 nice bars with full size bottles, not those minis, in both the living room and bedroom. Toiletries were L'Occitane and also large (tipped the maid to get a couple take-homes). The small indoor pool overlooking the city's main canal is picture perfect and empty, the history there oozed from every tufted pillow, and the staff were uniformly gracious. Especially when they invited me to enjoy all the alcohol in my room COMPLIMENTARY! Ten minutes after arrival, a man showed up with a fancy pot of tea and some biscuits for me to enjoy in my "living room." I will never forget that fabulous hotel experience.

by Anonymousreply 90August 15, 2019 2:35 AM

Bulgari London is $4000+ a night. Vulgar AF.

by Anonymousreply 91August 15, 2019 2:38 AM

[quote] the history there oozed from every tufted pillow,

DL is the red (violet?) hot center of purple prose

It oozes from just about every thread.

by Anonymousreply 92August 15, 2019 2:39 AM

[quote]I'm confused, is the five star rating system an industry rating given by hotel-type people/owners or a standard judged by the public?

Neither, although hotel owners are free to call their hotel "five star" if that's what they want. There is no universal standard and quite a few organizations and websites have their own star ratings. I believe it was Forbes who first came up with a star rating system. AAA also has a similar system, as does Expedia, TripAdvisor, etc.

by Anonymousreply 93August 15, 2019 2:42 AM

[quote]Bulgari London is $4000+ a night.

MMPH! I just can't imagine paying that kind of money for a hotel room.

by Anonymousreply 94August 15, 2019 2:44 AM

My dad's theory on hotels still holds up:

If you're in a city and you're there for less than a week and mostly doing tourist things, then you don't need a super fancy hotel--you're barely going to spend any time in the room and because it's a city, you can obtain most anything you need fairly easily. Exceptions are if your vacation will be ruined if you don't get to eat at a particularly trendy restaurant and need someone to get you in or if you have small children with you, in which case you probably will be spending a decent amount of time in the hotel and 5 star hotels often cater to families on theory that they will be customers for the next 40 years.

If you're going to a beach resort or similar, then you are going to spend most of your time at the hotel and you want to spend big because you'll get privacy, amazing service, excellent food and access to various experiences. Plus, unlike in a city hotel, where your main interaction with other guests will be a polite nod in the elevator, you'll likely see a lot of your fellow guests at dinner, on the tennis courts, etc. so you want people with similar expectations.

by Anonymousreply 95August 15, 2019 2:47 AM

I used to work for a billionaire around the years 2000 and thus visited numerous extreme luxury hotels. But many of the worlds best hotels got even more luxurious by about 2010 with gazillions of investment dollars (money laundering) for ultimate makeovers. The Ritz in Paris was very tranquil in 2000, we would spend time in the pool and gym, down stairs, and it was a bit dowdy. Someone dumped 400 million on it and it's not really the same. This happened to so many nice luxury hotels. Every wrinkle steamed out a lot of local feeling evaporated.

OP - luxury is NOT created for the average guy. It's not worth the money. The clothes, restaurants, cars, yachts, hotels, they are all priced for people who do NOT feel any pain paying, just enjoy the pleasure of the luxury.

I wouldn't say its transcendent if you are a regular, because the taste quickly adjusts. I guess if you have only a few experiences in life of extreme luxury, then it keeps the value of something unique.

by Anonymousreply 96August 15, 2019 2:50 AM

[quote]How is The Savoy in London?

I've stayed twice. It's terrific. Not quite as stuffy or over the top as The Ritz. A well managed, gracious, laid back hotel. Is it worth it? Hard to say. Very expensive, especially with the exchange rate. But it's a wonderful experience. I gave a private dinner there once in this room... it was a terrific evening. The Savoy beautifully balances elegance with welcome.

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by Anonymousreply 97August 15, 2019 2:55 AM

[quote] The Savoy beautifully balances elegance with welcome.

This may be the most purple thread on DL ever.

by Anonymousreply 98August 15, 2019 2:57 AM

What do travelers to NYC think of the Bryant Park Hotel? I'm planning on treating my mom to a Manhattan vacation next spring, and its proximity to Broadway and architecture are both appealing. But I haven't heard about the experience from someone who's actually stayed there.

R17, Circus Circus is where I stayed when I visited Vegas! An acquaintance of mine had her car stolen from their garage that weekend.

by Anonymousreply 99August 15, 2019 3:08 AM

R65 made me laugh so hard

by Anonymousreply 100August 15, 2019 3:12 AM

I've never stayed at the hotel MattBruinsFan (Boston hockey or UCLA?) but have been to Koi, the sushi restaurant there and it's very good.

The LA location was hot for a while 10 years ago--it was featured in Entourage, IIRC, but that's all died down and it's just a solid place.

And the location is excellent, walking distance of just about anything you want and there's a giant Whole Foods on the corner that's good for grabbing something quick.

by Anonymousreply 101August 15, 2019 3:16 AM

R99, I stayed at the Bryant Park about ten years ago... I liked it... but I felt like the rooms were filled with IKEA furniture. It was fine but not as nice as the price. Location is terrific. Bryant Park is one of my favourite places in all of Manhattan.

by Anonymousreply 102August 15, 2019 3:24 AM

The fanciest hotel I've ever stayed in was the Leela Palace in Bangalore, India. The rooms were very posh and the staff was unctuous. And, given the abject poverty that was one block away from the hotel grounds, I felt like one of the conquering gentry. Not my thing at all.

by Anonymousreply 103August 15, 2019 3:33 AM

Unctuous is a great word R103

Well done.

by Anonymousreply 104August 15, 2019 3:34 AM

Well that can be said about a Luxury hotel in NYC or the Alps, R103. There is a small french film L'enfant d'en haut (sister) with Lea Seydoux about two gutter rat orphan brother and sister who live in the valley in Switzerland and the boy goes up to the chic ski resort regularly to steal. Those towns and townies in the valley are soul-crushing pits and people can be very poor in very rich countries.

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by Anonymousreply 105August 15, 2019 3:42 AM

I'm going to take a wild swing R105 and say that poverty is rural Switzerland circa 2019 has nothing on poverty in rural India.

Call me crazy, but I'm thinking things like "lack of indoor plumbing" and "lack of clean drinking water" give the Indians the edge here.

SMH

by Anonymousreply 106August 15, 2019 3:45 AM

Cough. Yes I don't deny your point but there are stark contrasts in rich countries, too.

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by Anonymousreply 107August 15, 2019 4:06 AM

The Goring is fabulous. I saw The Queen, Charles and Camilla getting into a Rolls from my room. Great tea as well.

by Anonymousreply 108August 15, 2019 5:22 AM

Waste your money here.

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by Anonymousreply 109August 15, 2019 6:43 AM

I read the whole thread & thanks for all of your opinions. I think the points make a lot of sense. I was going to stay at one in the beginning of October but I am greatly debating that now, especially since it is a city hotel and I will be out 90% of the time. I did once stay at a St. Regis and the room was stunning - but ok fine why don't I just save up to redo my own bathroom rather than spending $3000 to have their shower for a few days? I also agree with the idea about resorts where I think you get more out of being in your room. So, why not save the money for the winter and then stay at a resort when it's freezing cold here?

Here's another topic I haven't actually seen mentioned & didn't bring up in my post - but I was thinking about it. It seems like like luxury hotels have staff that are sort of "in your business" for lack of a better term. They are constantly around, they all know your name, they see who you're bringing in and out, they know every request you make - it starts to feel awkward. I don't necessarily want to be watched and have everyone say "hello Mr. x" everywhere I go. Also, if you're the peasant staying in the $1200/night room & wearing 2012 Banana Republic when there are $30,000/night suite guests in Chanel, do they look at you differently on top of all that?

I am also not so sure I even need the "service" really. For example, in high end hotels, the maid comes twice a day. I usually leave my DND sign up half the time to avoid the maid & just call for extra towels - because they tend to move around my things and it is just not necessary. I am not that messy. I traveled for 3 years straight for work and just got in the habit of not having a made. One high-end hotel even unpacked my suitcase and hung up my clothes, and I get that's the "service" - but really, I prefer not to have someone do that.

There's almost some odd irony here that I'd be paying to be annoyed. Why don't I just buy my own high end sheets & towels, have them pressed by the cleaners...and be done with it? (The cotton/poly sheets at the Hyatt- to my surprise - were the most comfortable of anything...and the Four Seasons has cotton/poly sheets too - the secret is just the fact it's pressed). I already have a really good shower that beats any hotel too. Beyond that, I'm not sure what I'd be getting. Felling rich for 4 days?

by Anonymousreply 110August 15, 2019 9:28 AM

^Thanks, OP for starting this thread. I have learned a lot! I'm a Intercontinental Hotel type man myself with a Ritz Carlton for very, very, special occasions. Most of these places I've never heard of and so I've been googling non-stop! I CAN'T IMAGINE spending so much money at some of these places for a night's accommodation but I am quite honored to be in the same presence (in some sort of way) with those who can and have. Maybe I'll make a plan of it to treat myself at one of these places listed. IT SURE WONT'T BE BULGARI!!! Thanks, to everyone but especially to OP!

by Anonymousreply 111August 15, 2019 10:54 AM

Hi OP. Glad I (or more accurately, my dad, lol) was able to help re: city/resort issue.

You asked:

[quote] Also, if you're the peasant staying in the $1200/night room & wearing 2012 Banana Republic when there are $30,000/night suite guests in Chanel, do they look at you differently on top of all that?

My answer would be no, because Silicon Valley. Think Zuck in his hoodie. There are a lot of very wealthy people, especially in tech, who don't look the part, and the stories are legion of hotels/shops treating them badly only to find out the guy is worth $2 billion.

In terms of your overall points about privacy and all that, I agree 100%, which is why when I am doing a city vacation now, I usually stay at an AirBnB, especially if it's in a city where I know people and/or am only going to be there a few days--if you're there for a week or more, it can be nice to have familiar faces, even if it's only the doorman.

Re; Airbnnb, once you're spending over a certain amount--it varies from city to city, but figure $200-$400/night--you're getting a very high end vacation apartment that is only rented out to guests (e.g., not someone's actual home) and thus has hotel-style amenities (high end soap and towels and all that) in a part of the city where you want to be, way more space than a hotel room, and hosts at that level are usually great about giving you local tips, etc.

Hope you enjoy your travels friend!

by Anonymousreply 112August 15, 2019 11:38 AM

Don't some foreign countries have official governmental designations for their star rating systems? I seem to remember that being the case in the past. Like a two-star had to meet certain criteria, a three-star had more requirements, etc.

by Anonymousreply 113August 16, 2019 1:37 AM

^^^^ yes this is the case in France and Italy. Not sure about which other countries.

by Anonymousreply 114August 16, 2019 3:28 AM

Op R110 - agree completely. Spend the money on your own home - or something you use every day. A few days in luxury is not worth it for the average joe. I’ve done it and enjoyed it. But wouldn’t do it again. You are right about service - at some point it’s annoying. It’s the reason I don’t want a doorman building. I’ll pay for location - it not for someone to kiss my ass.

by Anonymousreply 115August 16, 2019 5:04 AM

The "five stars" thing is given out by Forbes Travel Guide, used to be called Mobil. Here is a list of the Forbes Travel Guide 2019 star ratings. Sorry, I could not find a list of what metrics they use to award stars. However, I'm pretty sure that to be 5-star, the hotel has to have 24-hour room service. Things along those lines.

AAA does ratings as well, awarding "diamonds" rather than stars.

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by Anonymousreply 116August 16, 2019 5:29 AM

If the service is provided correctly, it's not annoying to me or intrusive. It's like a good waiter anticipating something before you even know you wanted it.

by Anonymousreply 117August 16, 2019 6:33 AM

[quote][R80] the location, the heat, the MUSLIMS everywhere. I couldn’t wait to get the fuck out of there.

"There are two things I cannot abide, heat and heathens!"

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by Anonymousreply 118August 16, 2019 7:03 AM

I stayed at the then Mandarin Oriental in Chiang Mai. Best 2 nights of my life.

by Anonymousreply 119August 16, 2019 7:08 AM

I'll be in Melbourne Australia for three weeks in January working on a film. My contract says "First Class hotel", but I imagine that could mean anything. I wonder where we'll be put up? It seems hotels in that city are not pricey at all, so maybe they'll spring for something decent?

by Anonymousreply 120August 16, 2019 7:30 AM

R119 - what did you like about it?

by Anonymousreply 121August 16, 2019 11:38 AM

I spent 4 night at The Peninsula in Beverly Hills followed by 2 night at the Mandarin Oriental in NYC. Both were c. $700 per night. It was a first and likely a last unless I win money. We’re they worth it? Sadly, yes. The Peninsula was total heaven on Earth, they even monogrammed our initials on the pillows. I thought I was paying for the hardware - decor, rooms, pool and while all were tasteful luxury I was really paying for the service. The MO in New York was also wonderful and what a view. I felt comfortable in both. My only other experience of a luxury hotel was being invited to lunch at the George V in Paris. There I felt out of place and the staff felt a little snobby but that’s cultural I think. My brother was escorted out of a French hotel a few years ago despite trying to explain he had a reservation. The Peninsula was completely casual and I felt comfortable walking around in flip flops and shorts after my morning walk. The MO was a touch more formal.

by Anonymousreply 122August 16, 2019 8:58 PM

[quote]The Peninsula was total heaven on Earth, they even monogrammed our initials on the pillows.

Okay... THAT's impressive!

by Anonymousreply 123August 16, 2019 9:07 PM

The only way to unlock the luxury features and amenities is to stay long term, go frequently or plan a workshop or party there. It is not really worth it if you are just staying for a week or less and are getting one room?

by Anonymousreply 124August 16, 2019 9:11 PM

R120-- there's a great hotel called the Langham in Melbourne. Their theme color is pink, IIRC and the location is great. Was there three or four years ago, but quick Google seems to indicate not much has changed.

by Anonymousreply 125August 16, 2019 9:11 PM

I meant to add that we booked with a Peninsula Pen Club travel agent. Same rate but booking through them got us an upgrade, free breakfast, a $100 credit and bottle of champagne in the room. They are also members of Mandarin Oriental FanClub and got us free breakfast and spa credit there.

When researching I came across a luxury hotels forum on FlyerTalk. Those guys are hotel snobs extraordinaire and they swear than Aman hotels are the finest in the world. I know there’s one in Utah, the Amangiri, but mostly they are in Asia.

by Anonymousreply 126August 16, 2019 9:16 PM

I did watch "A Very British Hotel" (about London's Mandarin Oriental Hotel) as R10 recommended. It was interesting and entertaining. However, the shots of the actual hotel rooms were not impressive at all. It appeared that the hotel was renovating and auctioning off furniture, so hopefully it looks better now.

by Anonymousreply 127August 16, 2019 9:21 PM

[quote] My brother was escorted out of a French hotel a few years ago despite trying to explain he had a reservation.

I would go ballistic if this happened to my family or me. I'd play the race card, too.

by Anonymousreply 128August 17, 2019 3:41 AM

Wow, thanks r125. I would be thrilled to stay at the Langham in Melbourne. It looks just luxe enough and the room rates listed seem very reasonable. Here's hoping!

by Anonymousreply 129August 17, 2019 3:44 AM

What is the best luxury hotel in New York?

by Anonymousreply 130August 17, 2019 3:55 AM

Mandarin Oriental is probably best all around in NYC. St Regis is up there- but probably more for its history than it’s present. Similar to The Carlyle.

by Anonymousreply 131August 17, 2019 4:33 AM

I've stayed at the Carlyle a few times on business and wasn't impressed. I ended up changing my preferred hotel in mid-town to the Hilton Garden Suites because it was new and at least the air conditioning worked.

by Anonymousreply 132August 17, 2019 4:46 AM

I’m surprised I e. Even to at least two on the list here. The Fontainebleau in Miami, pre 2008 rehab, was timeworn.

The Renaissance Paris Vendome Hotel was maybe the most expensive hotel I’ve stayed in but wasn’t that nice. We had a tiny room, and a mouse.

I also stayed at the San Francisco Ritz and I think the bellman was probably wealthier than I was. I recall the vodka nips were something outrageous at that time. $7 or $17, whatever. Something usurious in that era.

by Anonymousreply 133August 17, 2019 5:48 AM

Oh, about the Ritz. I didn’t like that every staff member I passed on my way through the building would address me by name. I wanted to shriek “Don’t look at me!”

by Anonymousreply 134August 17, 2019 5:50 AM

I stayed at the Four Seasons hotel in Houston for a business event. 2 days - Totally billed to the company I worked for. They came by to ask you if you wanted your shoes polished and then returned them in the morning. Pillows were down and bedding luxurious. I had breakfast in the room but dinner was always a banquet affair. I was in the room mainly to change clothes. The Duke and Duchess of Kent were staying there. I treated myself to a massage and the masseuse had just done the Duchess before me. I then saw them as I was getting a shuttle to the airport.

by Anonymousreply 135August 17, 2019 7:34 AM

5* Maldives water villa in the lagoon. Own butler. Glorious luxury in the most beautiful place on earth.

by Anonymousreply 136August 17, 2019 7:37 AM

Has anyone been to French Polynesia to those overwater bungalow type hotels? Is it worth the extra cost (flights are $$$$) over going to the Caribbean or even Seychelles/Maldives.

by Anonymousreply 137August 17, 2019 1:45 PM

Back in the '80s I stayed at some mid-level tourist hotel in Taipei. While taking me up to my room, the bellman asked if I'd like a woman for the evening. I politely declined. Then he asked if I'd prefer a boy. I also declined. I had to admit that I was somewhat shocked--I'd always heard that Taiwan was rather conservative. I would've expected it in say, Bangkok (where it didn't happen), but not in Taiwan.

So, to stay on topic -- that's what I call luxury-level service!

by Anonymousreply 138August 17, 2019 4:52 PM

I got solicited in Tijuana by a pimp in the 1980s. After declining the women, I think he quietly asked if we wanted a boy. I don’t speak Spanish, but that was the context. I imagine, it’s much more flagrant these days.

by Anonymousreply 139August 17, 2019 4:57 PM

A little OTT - but I agree that sometimes the best hotels happen to be the ones that were most recently built - not the most stars. I don’t care about service - only quality of room and location. I always try to find the most recent construction / rehab. I’ve been in beautiful brand new Holiday Inn that was nicer than the Hyatt’s, Hiltons, Sheratons that were higher stars and twice the price.

by Anonymousreply 140August 17, 2019 10:06 PM

The St. Regis in New York is an old hotel but if you have enough money for the royal suite, it does look nice in the photos. I don't know. I've never been.

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by Anonymousreply 141August 17, 2019 11:09 PM

R140, I'm the same way. I love new hotels.

by Anonymousreply 142August 18, 2019 4:43 AM

Las Vegas hotels are the worst. I've stayed in some of the suites in a couple of the strip hotels and while large, they weren't nearly as nice as the prices suggested. At one point, I had a couple of meetings with someone who was staying in the presidential suite and it was nice but not OTT.

by Anonymousreply 143August 18, 2019 5:02 AM

Holidayy Inns do not belong on this thread in any context.

by Anonymousreply 144August 18, 2019 6:06 AM

The Powerscourt in Dublin had really luxurious suites.

I love top hotels but use points for suites and other upgrades. Westin used to be the best, but Marriott is really ruining them.

by Anonymousreply 145August 21, 2019 10:06 PM

The new islands being developed in the Maldives are the height of luxury and edginess in the most beautiful location in the world. In the water villas you can go from bed to ocean in 30 seconds and the water is never colder than 28c.

by Anonymousreply 146September 1, 2019 12:47 AM

actually it gets quite boring quick. How many multi millionaires love their partners? And they are suck with them..

It would be nice for a week-end to distress and swim, but it is very far.

by Anonymousreply 147September 1, 2019 1:30 AM

R147, Maldives is only ten hours from the UK. I've been there a few times, and you do need to love the ocean and your partner. My partner and I had a huge row one time because there was no tv or wifi in the rooms of one of the 3* islands. He was not happy to pay 5k for a week and get nothing but private beaches, the ocean and the reef but I was fine with it, as an ocean obsessive.

by Anonymousreply 148September 1, 2019 1:33 AM

I’ve stayed at quite a few for work—Raffles in Singapore, the Ritz and Park Hyatt in Paris, the Four Seasons in Moscow, Beau Rivage in Geneva. The most beautiful is the Halekulani in Waikiki Beach. But they are all WAY overpriced.

by Anonymousreply 149September 1, 2019 1:33 AM

When Sheraton became Starwood, at first they had the most generous loyalty program. It - naturally - got crappier after a while but when it was great (about 10 years in the '90's and oughts), I traveled for work a lot then and stayed in some truly shitty Four Points hotels to get the requisite number of room nights to make Platinum status every year.

We've stayed at the St. Regis in NYC, the Royal Hawaiian in Honolulu, the Princeville Hotel on Kauai, the Prince de Galles in Paris, the Excelsior in Rome, the Palace in San Francisco, the Park Tower in Buenos Aires, the Palace in Madrid, the Desert Inn in Las Vegas, the Hotel Pulitzer in Amsterdam, the Park Lane in London, the Hotel Kamp in Helsinki, the Trianon Palace in Versailles (among others) and all for free.

They're not all super-luxury but when they give you a suite for free (Platinums got a suite if there was one available, even on an award stay, and you almost always did), four and a half stars can feel like five. Marriott bought Starwood and its Bonvoy frequent-guest plan so sucks by comparison.

by Anonymousreply 150September 1, 2019 1:43 AM

The 5* Hyatt Regency in Sharm el Sheikh is a beautiful hotel with the most beautiful long lazy river swimming pool. It's always much cheaper than it should be as people are scared to travel to Egypt. I've stayed there three times.

by Anonymousreply 151September 1, 2019 1:52 AM

But at oberoi, you can actually see the pyramid.

by Anonymousreply 152September 1, 2019 2:02 AM

We stayed in Le Meridien Pyramids in Cairo, a 5* with pyramid view. Sharm is beach resort with reefs close to shore, about an hour's flight time south of Cairo. The Oberoi is a lovely hotel but the pool is much bigger at the Meridien (or similar name, this was years ago).

by Anonymousreply 153September 1, 2019 2:04 AM

I'm jealous of all you hotel experts, I rarely travel. I do hope to work out of town more and experience a few of these places someday.

by Anonymousreply 154September 1, 2019 4:47 AM

Park Hyatt isn't ultra-luxury. Nor is Waldorf Astoria.

Bulgari, yes.

by Anonymousreply 155September 1, 2019 5:34 AM

I don't know. The Park Hyatt in New York looks very luxurious in a sleek, modern way. I especially like the dining room with the tree artwork. Forbes gives it 5 stars.

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by Anonymousreply 156September 1, 2019 7:39 AM
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by Anonymousreply 157September 1, 2019 7:40 AM

R155, the Park Hyatt in Paris is—many celebrities have stayed there. I ran into Eva Longoria and her ex Tony Parker there once.

by Anonymousreply 158September 1, 2019 12:52 PM

I'm with you, R154. I've learned a lot from this thread and I've enjoyed it.

by Anonymousreply 159September 1, 2019 12:54 PM

I'd rather be in a high-design or boutique luxury hotel like Covent Garden/Charlotte Street/Soho in London, Park Hyatt in Tokyo, Mercer in NY, Chateau Marmont in LA (the bungalows), Costes or Pavillon de la Reine in Paris, Lydmar in Stockholm (although the Grand has been nicely renovated). You get the same quality and service but a bit more modern and approachable. The SAS hotel in Copenhagen has one of the original Arne Jacobsen rooms (606) - that beats any Ritz.

When it is ultra luxury, Asia does it better: Taj Mahal Palace in Bombay (never the tower annex), Imperial in Delhi, Raffles or Shangri-La in Singapore, Peninsula Hong Kong (and elsewhere).

by Anonymousreply 160September 1, 2019 1:34 PM

[quote]the Park Hyatt in Paris is—many celebrities have stayed there. I ran into Eva Longoria and her ex Tony Parker there once.

You say that as if it supports your argument.

by Anonymousreply 161September 1, 2019 10:08 PM

The only place to stay in Paris is the Four Seasons Hotel George V.

by Anonymousreply 162September 1, 2019 10:35 PM

The place to stay is where you are treated well, and you have a good time in that location. The only time you are treated well in a luxury hotel and resort if you are a repeat customer and bring a large party. Booking a week-end stay in a luxury resort is not going to get you anything, but a whole in your back account. Multi millionaires complain all the time about the service too.

Have fun and surround yourself with people who love to be with one. Remember, you are fabulous. You can have fun anywhere.

by Anonymousreply 163September 2, 2019 3:25 AM

That's true up to a point, R163. There are probably plenty of upscale hotels and restaurants who will give you a lot of attitude if you're not well dressed, not a repeat customer and don't look like you belong.

But then there is the opposite extreme as described by R11. Also very unpleasant.

[quote]I’ve stayed in some downright seedy and repulsive places too, which could be another thread. One in Memphis with no lock on the door, just a chain and people screaming all night. I slept on top of the bedspread and didn’t take off my shoes. I drank shots of tequila in order to sleep.

by Anonymousreply 164September 2, 2019 4:31 AM

[quote]Park Hyatt in New York

$2000.00 a night. That's a lot.

by Anonymousreply 165September 2, 2019 4:39 AM

Yup, r165, Park Hyatt in Paris was 1500 equivalent dollars.

by Anonymousreply 166September 2, 2019 4:47 AM

I'm not cheap by any stretch, but what is that $2000 a night getting me, service-wise, that I'm not getting at the Hyatt Garden Inn in East Bumfuck?

by Anonymousreply 167September 2, 2019 4:50 AM

Cachet?

by Anonymousreply 168September 2, 2019 10:09 PM

In Chicago, The Peninsula has TVs flush mounted into the tile at the foot of the seperate soaking tubs. This is a nice treat There is something to be said for new or new (er) properties.

by Anonymousreply 169September 2, 2019 10:29 PM

Park Hyatt isn't ultra-luxury.

by Anonymousreply 170September 3, 2019 1:30 AM

It is if you come from a trailer park !

by Anonymousreply 171September 3, 2019 4:25 PM

I used to stay at really nice hotels and I got to the point where I wasn't seeing the benefit of spending the extra money over mid-range brands. I still had to pay extra for the spa. The gym equipment wasn't any nicer. Room service was still room service. You still had to tip the same. The room wasn't any cleaner.

by Anonymousreply 172September 3, 2019 4:37 PM

Has anyone mentioned Grand Hotel Tremezzo on Lake Como? Any DLer been there?

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by Anonymousreply 173September 4, 2019 4:22 PM

Your descriptions are lovely. I think this is one of those many times when my working-class inner voice tells me, "This is for other people. You're DoubleTree folk, who are we kidding. Is the room clean? quiet? Good enough."

I can't wait to read more of your posts, though. Regale me with your extravagance.

by Anonymousreply 174September 4, 2019 4:29 PM

I'd love to discuss why some luxury hotels (not ultra) have poly/cotton sheets - and they are incredibly comfortable. The Four Seasons absolutely does. The Hyatt does too. I'm in a hotel right now with 60/40 sheets and I love them, yet at home I have $200 Sferra sheets that aren't even as soft! Is it the excessive use and pressing? I don't get it.

Do Ultra Luxury hotels all use Frette and that tier of linens?

by Anonymousreply 175September 4, 2019 9:11 PM

Sweetie, even DoubleTree is upscale for me. (And I can afford most anything.)

by Anonymousreply 176September 4, 2019 9:43 PM

I stayed at the Hilton in midtown Manhattan once. That's super posh, right?

by Anonymousreply 177September 4, 2019 9:59 PM

R175, sometimes a blend feels better to the skin. I love 100% cotton but you don’t get that silky feeling without a blend.

by Anonymousreply 178September 5, 2019 12:01 AM

I agree with you R174. I am THOROUGHLY enjoying reading this thread. I am learning a lot too. But, I couldn't rationalize spending the type of money that many of these places charge for 1 or 2 nights for myself. I would probably need a week to fully appreciate and enjoy everything about the accommodations. That would be the vacation for me! For 1 or 2 nights... I mean... how much time are you really spending in the hotel facility? You're (at least I would be) want to be outside and about. To spend so much money for basically a couple of hours wouldn't sit well with me.

But, PLEASE don't you folks stop posting about your experiences! I truly enjoy reading about them!

by Anonymousreply 179September 5, 2019 12:14 AM

The best hotels I've stayed at are the Plaza Athénée in Paris and the Hotel Martinez in Canne. Every room facing the courtyard at the Plaza Athénée has a small balcony with huge Italian terracotta window boxes filled with red geraniums. Having morning coffee and croissants on the balcony is one of the most luxurious things I've ever experienced. Well, that and the hooker called Thierry.

by Anonymousreply 180September 5, 2019 12:29 AM

I stayed in a water bungalow on a Maldives island called Vilamendhoo. It had a hot tub on the deck and we'd sit in it at night, drinking wine and watching the stars, which are incredibly crisp and clear there. Stars behind stars behind stars.

There was a ladder down into the lagoon from our villa, and a beautiful long coral reef was only 20 metres away, teeming with fish and turtles. We'd sit on the private deck in the morning and have breakfast watching the dolphins passing by. The ocean there is both intensely turquoise and transparent, also very warm.

We were there for two weeks in March two years ago for our honeymoon. It cost 15k pounds sterling and we're saving to go back.

by Anonymousreply 181September 5, 2019 1:13 AM

I hate vacations where all you do is sit on the beach and relax. I can relax and go to the beach at home. I want to see and do things.

by Anonymousreply 182September 5, 2019 1:15 AM

R182, this was a honeymoon though so we had plenty of sex as well. And we both love reading and peace and quiet.

A vacay more to your taste would be the one we had in the Peloponnese at Stoupa, or Amalfi. 4* hotels but so much to do and see, plus you can still swim in the sea on off days.

Cavo Tagoos in Santorini is also incredible. Each room has a pool in a little cave with a panoramic view over the sea and volcano.

by Anonymousreply 183September 5, 2019 1:19 AM

[quote]Cavo Tagoos in Santorini is also incredible. Each room has a pool in a little cave with a panoramic view over the sea and volcano.

Ohhhh... how nice, R183!

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by Anonymousreply 184September 5, 2019 1:31 AM

[quote]Peloponnese at Stoupa

Oh, gosh! I have never even heard of this place.

by Anonymousreply 185September 5, 2019 1:34 AM

Incredible views.

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by Anonymousreply 186September 5, 2019 1:36 AM

Vilamendhoo water villa.

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by Anonymousreply 187September 5, 2019 1:39 AM

Just once in that uber ultra luxury category. Jumby Bay Island in Antigua. One bedroom estate suite. It was huge - 1700+ sq. ft. with beachfront views and our own infinity swimming pool and personal butler. Our next door villa neighbor was Jenniffer Aniston and her entourage in a 3 bedroom villa that was bigger than the average house. It was definitely a splurge for us, and we went back and forth on whether it was too expensive, was it worth it etc. But it was both a honeymoon and to celebrate me making Sr. Partner at my firm. At $2750 per night for 5 nights it was a one time indulgence. But, boy was it fabulous. We were honestly sad to leave.

by Anonymousreply 188September 5, 2019 2:05 AM

Antigua is beautiful. We stayed at the Jolly Beach, definitely not luxury, but the setting with the turquoise sea and hills was beautiful. Also stayed in a beachfront room in the on Reduit Beach, St Lucia, but I can't remember the hotel name.

by Anonymousreply 189September 5, 2019 2:20 AM

Baglioni Resort, Maldives.

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by Anonymousreply 190September 5, 2019 2:26 AM

Has anyone stayed at the Amanzoe, the one on mainland Greece? I’m thinking about a stay there next year.

by Anonymousreply 191September 7, 2019 1:27 AM

[quote]Has anyone mentioned Grand Hotel Tremezzo on Lake Como? Any DLer been there?

No, but I stayed at The Villa D'Este.

We were a bit disappointed but I can't remember why.

by Anonymousreply 192September 7, 2019 1:34 AM

I think fancy, pantsy hotels are most worthwhile when you're staying at some sort of resort that offers so much more than a room.

But in big cities when you spend so little time there, I don't think they're worth it and in fact I find them quite oppressive...I just want to come and go without any fuss.

BUT, in later life, I've found I like room service for dinner.

by Anonymousreply 193September 7, 2019 1:38 AM

That Maldives place looks like it might actually be worth it. Fabulous.

by Anonymousreply 194September 7, 2019 3:23 AM

Welcome to the Savoy!

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by Anonymousreply 195September 7, 2019 1:11 PM

What about the Fairmont hotels In Canada? The ones in Banff and Lake Louise have amazing locations.

by Anonymousreply 196September 7, 2019 3:04 PM

Good question. The Royal York, in Toronto, is grand but barely.

by Anonymousreply 197September 7, 2019 3:08 PM

You can stay in a nice hotel room here for $150/night. More than that is not worth it. How much time do people really spend in a hotel room while traveling? All you need is a bed and a bathroom. I don't want housekeeping in my room while I'm there unless I run out of toiletries and even then they can bring up as requested. I work in the industry and all hotels are pretty much the same. The trappings are different.

by Anonymousreply 198September 7, 2019 3:16 PM

I will add that I like quirky, funky little places. My next go to place is a place called Barefoot Beach in Belie. Inexpensive but right on the beach. That's my kind of place.

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by Anonymousreply 199September 7, 2019 3:19 PM

[quote]I work in the industry and all hotels are pretty much the same. The trappings are different.

Ha! And, that was going to be one of my questions. Who works in the industry? What are any of the benefits that the workers receive in these super luxury hotels?

Someone raised the point that the price might be justified if it was a resort location/destination but I'm like some others, I couldn't justify the costs of many of these rooms for myself for just 1-2 nights. I think if I did spend $700- $3K/night on a hotel room I'd want to have some type of party there and invite a few people to the room so that we can all see and enjoy the accommodations. Check-in at 3PM. A nice little party from 8PM-12 or 1 AM. Sleep, relax, and a late check-out at 3PM

by Anonymousreply 200September 7, 2019 3:34 PM

Low pay R200. I started out as Front Desk Agent. It's criminal they are allowed to make people stand up for 8 hours straight with only a 30 minute break. It's very bad for your body. The luckiest workers are the ones who can earn tips like room service attendants, bellmen, and servers. I work in the office part now but still help out at the front when it's super busy but at least I'm 9-5, weekends off and have insurance.

by Anonymousreply 201September 7, 2019 4:15 PM

I don’t believe people in really high end resorts are paid lowly. All of them are so well trained and professional. I could be wrong but why bust your ass at a luxe hotel when you can do nothing at a cheap hotel for the same pay?

by Anonymousreply 202September 7, 2019 4:22 PM

That sucks, R201. That really, really, sucks! But, I must admit that a part of me is thinking; "Well, who doesn't complain about low pay? Even the partner in a top law firm." Anyway, I get your drift. But, I was wondering if the workers get the opportunity to buy the Frette bedding, dishes, etc. What happens to the not as fresh, fresh flowers?

by Anonymousreply 203September 7, 2019 4:26 PM

Depends on the job R202 and where. LV hotels pay more than where I'm at but compared to other industries the pay sucks.

by Anonymousreply 204September 7, 2019 4:26 PM

Grand Kempinski - Budapest - amazing bathrooms, location , location, location. Savoy - Moscow, overrated. Several 4 Seasons - some nice some boring.

by Anonymousreply 205September 7, 2019 4:27 PM

[quote]You can stay in a nice hotel room here for $150/night

And where exactly is "here?"

by Anonymousreply 206September 7, 2019 4:54 PM

I'll step in on this one R206. There are MANY places in NYC. I stayed at the Plaza for $99/night. I found the rate on Priceline a little after 3PM and for 2 nights. Many hotels will want to get something rather than have that room go empty for the night.

by Anonymousreply 207September 7, 2019 5:05 PM

5*s in Egypt are under 200 dollars a night if you don't mind a possible side of terrorism with your vacation.

by Anonymousreply 208September 9, 2019 2:16 AM

I used to work at a high-end hotel (not super luxury). The banquet servers made a lot of money. Banquets meaning a meal service for a known amount of people (e.g., an industry convention lunch). Their shifts were shorter than the regular servers' shifts. The gratuity was built into the costs (the servers did not need to worry about how much someone would tip them). The downside: heavy trays of plates and food.

The bellmen supposedly made a lot of money as well.

by Anonymousreply 209September 9, 2019 2:35 AM

R209, true.

by Anonymousreply 210September 9, 2019 2:37 AM

R196, I’ve stayed at both of those and the Jasper Park Lodge. The settings are spectacular. The rooms are like a Hilton.

by Anonymousreply 211September 9, 2019 5:52 AM

The Aman hotels are probably the most luxurious in the world. The Peninsula chain is the only chain to have every hotel receive the Forbes 5 star rating.

I wonder how long ago was it that the Plaza was on Priceline for $99? Granted these days the Plaza is not ultra luxury. I go to NYC in the low season, first week of February and even then $150 a night is hard to find. San Francisco is also so expensive and when there’s a convention forget it. My sister paid $300 for a Holiday Inn and that was using Hotwire and a coupon.

Anyway, I stay at everything from mom and pop motels to ultra luxury hotels. I spend 15% of my salary every year on travel so some years I sacrifice hotel quality to get in more trips. Some years I only get away once or twice so I have more money for a nice hotel. I have only once regretted an ultra luxury. That was the Four Seasons in Maui. It was $920 a night for their lowest room category looking out over the parking lot. The resort is huge and just had too many people to provide the service that price point should command. Overall it was just meh and I wouldn’t go again, granted I was completely underwhelmed by Maui and Hawaii in general so perhaps that clouded my judgement.

Some outstanding hotels that were worth every last cent and then some: Amangani, Amangiri, Amankila, Peninsula Paris and Peninsula Beverly Hills, Hotel Bel Air, Eden in Rome, Cipriani in Venice, Mandarin Oriental in New York, Four Seasons Santa Barbara and Hotel du Cap Eden Roc.

Tip: Most luxury hotel groups have a “secret” program that only a select few travel agents have access to. It doesn’t cost more to book through those agents but you get many freebies. Free breakfast, resort credit, upgrades, welcome amenities. The manager is always aware of you and you’ll get lots of touches you won’t get by booking through their site yourself. Examples are PenClub, Dorchester Diamond Collection, Four Seasons Preferred Partner.

by Anonymousreply 212September 29, 2019 7:20 PM

The Old Money, when in Paris, chooses Hotel Crillon!

by Anonymousreply 213October 1, 2019 4:58 AM

Villa d’Este Lake Como

Did not want to leave

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by Anonymousreply 214October 1, 2019 6:40 AM

Rayavadee in Krabi, Thailand. Spectacular setting admidst karst landscape and turquoise ocean.

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by Anonymousreply 215October 1, 2019 10:39 AM

I stay in expensive hotels for work. I spend so little time actually in the hotel that it’s not worth the price.

by Anonymousreply 216October 1, 2019 10:47 AM

I once stayed at a great hotel in Aswan Egypt for $5/night.

So I’m just fine without any luxury whatsoever

by Anonymousreply 217October 1, 2019 10:49 AM

The location is far more important than the hotel.

by Anonymousreply 218October 2, 2019 5:39 AM

Luxury in Dubai

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by Anonymousreply 219October 2, 2019 3:08 PM

Something happened to me in the Waldorf Astoria that beats out every hotel story I have from years of traveling. The door man asked how my first night was, and I made a passing comment that it's a little hard for me to sleep with jet lag because the windows let too much light in around the curtains in the morning... so they had me talk to the front desk about it, and said they really want to solve the problem for me, but I was just thinking maybe I'll buy an eye mask.

They didn't think I'd be happy with the eye mask (truth is - I pull it off in my sleep 1/2 the time) and they wanted to solve this problem. So... 15 minutes later, 2 guys came up and started installing NEW curtains in a different way so that no light comes in. I was floored. How did they have extra curtains that fit these windows? This was a small Waldorf yet they were on hand within minutes? I could not believe it.

The only other time something came close was when I was complaining about a weird rattling / chirping noise from my ceiling AC & then 2 engineers came up and one went on the roof (of a 30+ story hotel) and the other one was in here and they were on the walkie-talkies trying to find what was rattling for half an hour. Not to mention, that hotel had over 500 rooms... yet here they are trying to solve one rattling fan for 30 min. That hotel isn't considered "ultra luxury" - but that story was funny. I wish the HVAC people I hired worked 1/2 as hard.

by Anonymousreply 220October 18, 2019 9:28 PM

In the 90s I worked in corporate sales for hotels. Loews, Mandarin Oriental and finally Leading Hotels of the World. My boyfriend worked at the Four Seasons in New York. I stayed at some of the best hotels in the world for business and pleasure.

The service and amenities are truly one of a kind. You’re treated like royalty and I was usually upgraded to a suite of one was available.

I left the industry in the early 2000s and my boyfriend was laid off and ended up working at a Hilton. We broke up over 10 years ago and I now stay at small boutique hotels and Airbnb’s.

I definitely miss staying at luxury properties. I would certainly stay in them again if I had the money.

by Anonymousreply 221October 18, 2019 11:00 PM

R220 Not a hotel but an ocean liner - the old QE2 - but on the first morning out of Southampton on a transatlantic crossing the waiter at breakfast asked if we'd slept well. I said the cabin was beautiful but I'd had a hard time getting to sleep because some of the paneling creaked as the ship picked up speed heading out into the Atlantic past Bishop's Rock. We weren't back in the room after breakfast for more than three minutes when two engineers, a staff officer, and a crewman with a stepladder knocked on the door to ask if they "could attend to the vibration problem." I was floored, but could see later they'd shimmed a couple of pieces of the wooden panels where they met the framing on the wall with tiny rubber wedges. And I slept very well the rest of the way to New York.

It's a problem you'd never encounter on a new megaship where the whole cabin is built before it's bolted into the ship's hull or superstructure, but it was evidence of a level of effort devoted to solving a problem you'd never encounter these days either.

by Anonymousreply 222October 18, 2019 11:37 PM

We once received an American Express upgrade at the Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok. It was one of two penthouse suites that then cost about $2000.00 per night. Being in Thailand, all of the fabrics were magnificent silks. have to admit that it was glorious. They noted on my passport that we were there over my birthday. As lovely as it was, I wouldn't have paid for it but was delighted to receive it.

by Anonymousreply 223October 18, 2019 11:59 PM

I hear the Trump National Doral is exceptionally beautiful, the height of world-class glamour, elegance and sophistication. Anyone care to share their experiences at this Xanadu of the Western World?

by Anonymousreply 224October 19, 2019 12:16 AM

[quote]I hear the Trump National Doral is exceptionally beautiful,

Burn it down.

by Anonymousreply 225October 19, 2019 12:17 AM

Where does all the caca go on those tiny islands in the Maldives?

by Anonymousreply 226October 19, 2019 12:43 AM

Ha - that's great r222. I guess I'm not the only one!

by Anonymousreply 227October 19, 2019 7:19 AM

Ultra Luxury hotels know how to handle you. They will never be rude to your face, but they are masters of making your stay unpleasant in a passive aggressive way if you are not up to the hotel's standards. And no, I don't mean looking cheap, but cheap, tacky, trashy behavior. Like, as soon you are pegged as a bad tipper, no perks suggested or offered by the staff.

by Anonymousreply 228October 19, 2019 9:25 AM

R228 - what are the tipping standards, and for whom? The concierge? Front desk? I just leave a tip for the maid in normal situations.

by Anonymousreply 229October 19, 2019 11:52 AM

[quote] They noted on my passport that we were there over my birthday.

That was actual written in your passport? By whom?

by Anonymousreply 230October 19, 2019 12:09 PM

I think he meant that they noticed that it was his birthday (your birth date is in your passport.)

by Anonymousreply 231October 19, 2019 5:02 PM

The Most Expensive Hotel Room In The World

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by Anonymousreply 232October 20, 2019 8:18 AM

I stayed at the Ritz Paris for 5 nights. There were some amazing things about it and some things that might even be better (and have been better) at other hotels. But I think the language barrier (even here) can be an issue with some of the staff, even the concierges (but some will send you to the one with better English). I wanted to change my pillow cases which became an ordeal. I wish I realized I was next to the linen room sooner & just walked in and took one & later realized was caught on camera in my elevator area.

The security was intense. The guys at the front all have those secret service ear buds. So even when I came back in GAP flannel shirt they let me in with a Bounjour Mr. X!

The bed was the most comfortable thing I ever slept in (and I looked at the tag - it was a Sealy!). It must have been custom made for them and they probably replace them constantly. The sheets were incredible. They were sateen, so I know some people here would hate them though I’m sure they’d bring you percale given their service. But you’d have to explain what percale is perhaps...so maybe not.

They don’t often tell you that you’re being charged for things that clearly. I was actually sick & mentioned it to the desk - they said their doctor should come and see if I need antibiotics. I thought it was maybe overkill but said yes - so I wouldn’t get worse. Then I realized I had to ask the price. Only €350 for the visit...likewise the breakfast (which is very basic other than the amazing pastries and beautiful room) is €66... but what exactly did that include (we ordered off the menu - no buffet). The service is outstanding so I always left a tip even though it says “service included.” Their brunch on Sunday is €150. Very good but not worth that price whatsoever.

I had a room in “the other building” which meant I had to walk very far from the front door to get there - though a bunch of high end retail display windows. It was like a Vegas hotel...very odd. The room pics are online & have a specific look some might dislike. They also have a system that controls everything in the room but it is quirky in how it forces you to turn the lights on and off. Hard to explain. Also I called emergency services (almost - it warns you after you press the button) about 5 times because I was trying to change the temperature or turn off a light.

The concierges are great and can get you in anywhere and recommend everything. You get a fancy little note on their stationary under your door every time you have a reservation somewhere. That being said, everyone there is using the Concierges like crazy so it’s sometimes impossible to call them or you have to wait in line like a bank teller’s window. Some hotels have concierges at a seated desk which is nicer (Waldorf). But then they get backed up too. I would just go there when it wasn’t mobbed.

It was an experience ... I’ll never do it again but I wanted to see what it would be like. I also got lucky that I booked an executive room and somehow got a junior suite. I have no idea how that happened. I kept asking them how it happened and they just shrugged. I never stayed there before, but it was a long stay during a low period so who knows.

by Anonymousreply 233October 30, 2019 12:19 PM

R226, good point. We were staying in a luxurious over water bungalow in the Maldives when a toilet backed up and started overflowing, over the marble bathroom floor and down the wooden staircase into the lagoon.

There are sewage pipes taking the waste far out into the Indian Ocean.

by Anonymousreply 234October 30, 2019 2:02 PM

From the descriptions here, I think I would feel uncomfortable knowing how closely I was being scrutinized just walking through the lobby.

by Anonymousreply 235October 30, 2019 2:17 PM

Well, I'm going to ask it because I don't know;

At such exorbitant prices are you supposed to tip or not? Are the tips included in the prices?

by Anonymousreply 236October 30, 2019 2:29 PM

R236 - in my case in Paris, “service is included” but I still tipped the concierge who helped me the most and then all the staff at meals. Breakfast was in my rate. (for $1300 they squeezed in free eggs somehow - the budget must be tight..) but yea I Tipped them and the concierge I liked.

He did an odd thing. I gave him money, and put it on the desk and he’d pause and look at me and the money and say “that’s very generous of you” and then the money would still be sitting there for 20 seconds and I’d be thinking ... um ... can you maybe take it? But he waited. This again was the Ritz Paris which is like some kind of fortress, so the only thing I’m thinking is perhaps he needs to give time for the cameras to see the tip for some reason? So it’s a weird way to launder money or perhaps they pool it all at the end and split it. Or maybe people try to hand over €100 for some illicit request? Not sure. Both times he did that odd pause though. It was awkward. I thought maybe I didn’t give enough or something, but many people don’t even leave anything. Some probably leave €100s. I think that being from America, I always feel guilty if I don’t. Also if someone helps plan your day multiple times, I just feel obligated even though technically it’s “his job”. There was a guy at the Waldorf Astoria I gave €30 which I guess is about right but there is a point when you think “my room is 4 figures a night and their pay isn’t so dependent on tips - why are you doing this?”

One time I called the desk of some hotel to go over what was being billed to my room and at one point the desk agent said “and...uh...3 euros gratuity” in this very deadpan (hard to explain) tone. I was kind of embarrassed (was for coffee and a pastry or something) and realized they do look at their tips & kind of judge you for it. Tip early and often I guess. I assume they think you’re very cheap if your stay is $4500 and you can’t give them $20.

I’d be interested to hear from others.

by Anonymousreply 237October 30, 2019 3:33 PM

I find it an absolutely worthless experience unless you have gobs of money to spend on incidentals: spas, drivers, dining at the restaurant. Even if you can afford the obscene price tag of a room GENERALLY, you are unlikely to afford the rooms with the wow factor.

If you're going to pay, pay for something that will make a statement: an oceanfront view and balcony. Amazing pools and grounds. A beautiful river/mountain view. A terrace. Because if you are not the type to dress up and sit in cigar bars and wine lounges, the incidentals are largely not worth it. And you can get that at a nice 4-star hotel and definitely not pay $500+ per night.

The Royal Hawaiian in Honolulu is "5-star." The Sheraton Waikiki next door is not. I love the romance of the RH, but the Sheraton is just fine and you are more apt to get a killer view. I loved the Sofitel Manila with a beautiful view of Manila bay. I would never pay for the Sofitel New York or Sofitel Chicago.

For REAL old world elegance, I still want to make it to the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, or TRUE old money at the Greenbrier. But I hate dressing up at hotels so I doubt it will ever be in the cards. I go to relax.

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by Anonymousreply 238October 30, 2019 4:03 PM

In the Maldives you tip your waiter and your room boy.

by Anonymousreply 239October 31, 2019 12:53 AM

Agree R239 that the luxury should be in the location. So I've always splurged on the Maldives or somewhere as close to the beach as possible. I'd actually prefer a 4* on the beach to a 5* in a city.

by Anonymousreply 240October 31, 2019 7:35 PM

I was at a very expensive "ultra luxury" hotel and the curtains let WAY too much light in (for me, anyway) - I need to sleep in pitch black. So, I told the front desk manager on duty and they sent someone up to cover the windows with black film. Later on, I was talking to him & said I'm sorry that must have been such a weird request and now you have to bother to take it all down - he said "It's absolutely no problem - we're more than happy to do that for you. It's not unusual at all - even Madonna requests it when she comes." It still kind of makes me laugh. I wonder if Madonna can't sleep with light (like me) or if she's afraid of Paparazzi shots through the curtains though.

by Anonymousreply 241November 18, 2019 10:26 PM

Plaza Athenee Paris. But only if someone else is paying.

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by Anonymousreply 242November 18, 2019 11:03 PM
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