Happy Journeys with Celebrate-Travel, Inc

Florence, Tuscany, Rome, and Amalfi Coast was the perfect honeymoon for Amy and Kevin

Hotel Savoy in Florence-great location and excellent service, very modern and very clean. The rooms were pretty hot even with the A/C but they brought us a fan which definitely helped. Rooms were very modern, great bath products. The gym was small but useable. The TV does not have a lot of English channels.  The concierge was so helpful, as was the front desk staff. Greeted us by name, took our picture, and made our reservations. Breakfast was delicious-continental style with lots of fruit, eggs, pastries, fish, meat, etc.

We went to the Uffizi and Academia Galleries.  Concierge arranged our tickets before we arrived and added to our hotel bill.  We walked around a lot-to Ponte Vecchio, Boboli Gardens (got there too late so they were closed), Michaelangelo’s Piazza, shopping, etc.

Private driver, Simone, was great-so nice and informative. Good sense of humor. He took us to Greve and Radda in Chianti and a few other small villages. Told us the history as we were driving and took time to stop for good pictures. We went to two wineries. Monterinaldi was our fav-best lunch of the trip. Beautiful grounds. Casa Emma was nice but not as intimate as Monterinaldi. He was very punctual and the car was very nice to spend the day in.

Took first class train to Rome-very nice and easy. Stored luggage at Roma Termini-so easy. We did the hop on hop off bus in Rome. I think we had about 7 hours total, including storing luggage, finding the bus, etc. We were able to stop at the Colosseum and do a tour, Trevi Fountain, and Vatican City (we saw the Sistine Chapel and the grounds. The line at St Peter’s Basilica was too long).  

 

From Rome, we took the first class train to Naples. Giovanni picked us up and we drove two hours to Amalfi.

We went to Capri one day-so easy to take the ferry from Amalfi. About a ten-12 min walk to ferry from the hotel or the hotel had a shuttle service to drive you there.

Stayed at the pool most days. Went to Amalfi for dinner a few nights. Ate at the hotel twice but found that the best restaurants were the “typical” restaurants-more casual, homemade pasta, etc.  You could eat at the typical restaurants for about 40 euro, including drinks whereas the recommended “fancier” places tended to be more expensive-around 100 euro and up.

Went to Positano one day (lunch at Le Tre Sorelle)-took the boat which was nice to be on the water and also much less expensive than a taxi. Went to Ravello for dinner one night (Cumpa Cosimo)-took the local bus which was actually very nice and comfortable and so much cheaper than taking a cab. I think it was 4 euros round trip for the two of us!

Santa Caterina was very nice but not as modern as the Savoy.  The room was older, although pretty, but our view was partly of the street.  The concierges were all very nice, especially Mateo. The pool staff could have been more attentive but the pool area itself was amazing. The pool has seaside access-literally could jump from the lounge chair into the sea. Gorgeous. We ate lunch mainly at the hotel but the restaurant did not open until 1pm which was a little late for our taste but we found that we could ask for light snacks (olives, peanuts, pretzels) at the pool. Other than the main restaurant and room service, there was nowhere else to get food during the day at the hotel.

Anne’s services were wonderful-we felt that we had all the details to our trip and there were no surprises. She listened to what we wanted and made suggestions accordingly.  She was extremely attentive in making sure that we had all our materials and itineraries, including drivers, dates, etc.  She also recommended various excursions in each place that we stayed. We had a very well planned trip and were able to accomplish all that we wanted to.  It was great having pre-arranged transportation for our wine tour and transfers to Amalfi, as well as having the first class train ticket pre booked.  We would  (and already have) recommend her to anyone looking for a great travel agent who clearly takes pride in what she does and makes sure that her clients have the best vacation possible!

Casey and Val report back on their Kauai/Big Island honeymoon

Aloha!

This is a long review, but I couldn't help myself - we had a blast!

Our honeymoon was absolutely the BEST and we have you, Anne Rose, to thank for setting it all up for us.  The champagne and chocolate covered strawberries were delicious and a nice surprise when we got to the room!  Also our perks while we were there, money credits, room upgrades, and free breakfasts were so nice and helpful.

We LOVED Kauai the best because of its lush green environment and our adventures there were amazing - it was just beautiful.

While we were at Kauai the hotel room was wonderful, it had its own kitchen! and the view was gorgeous.  The Weston Princeville was very pretty and the $50 daily credit helped us out a bunch - we even "went green" with our room cleaning service because that offered us an extra $10 off :) so needless to say, we ate a lot!!

We were woken up by roosters most days (they are everywhere!) but that is okay because Val and I were the first ones up in the resort because of our jet lag - we went to the pool or out for our adventures at 6am!

It rained a lot in Kauai but it didn't bother us much because our days were filled with fun things to do - we went on the sunset cruise which was really neat.  The south didn't rain as much as the north so we were pretty dry that day.  We saw dolphins, the Nepali Coast, caves, turtles, met wonderful people, drank, ate, learned of the Kauai history, and we even drove the boat!
It was a great 4 hours - but thankfully we have sea stomachs - there was one couple hanging off the back of the boat getting sick because it was a rocky ride out and 4 hours long. 

Surfing was our favorite day.  It was raining but that made for better waves! Our young instructor Spenser was awesome, Val and I were both able to get up on our first try! ...we did take a few spills though ;) We were on a huge beach and the water was gorgeous!


The Kayaking and hiking adventure was cool and interesting at the same time as we paddled kayaks, hiked through the woods, took a tractor to our zip lining destination, jumped on a rope swing into a deep water pool in the mountain, jumped 25 ft into the water spring... very neat!!  We went back to the hotel exhausted!!  




We went out for dinner at a delicious restaurant in Hanalei called the Dolphin.  We had a bartender named Ash who was very nice - we had him pick our meal for us.  We enjoyed fresh sushi - that wasn't even on the menu and shared a delicious fish with gourmet veggies and all.  The prices were great - especially since we were used to the resort prices - this place was a steal! I highly recommend it.

The Smith family Luau was okay... I would say next time I wouldn't go to one unless it was on a beach.  This was a little too commercialized - but cool to see hula dancers and fire eaters.

We loved the Big Island because of its huge beach and bathwater ocean. Very different from Kauai!!  We were so excited to get to the hotel and see the view from the lounge - the Palm trees, a HUGE beach, and aqua blue water. 
We were on the beach or pool every single day snorkeling, lying on the beach, swimming, eating and drinking yummy island drinks. 

Our kayak adventure there was an experience, we couldn't bring our camera because it would have gotten wet - we should have bought an underwater camera... wish we did because we saw some cool things out in the water.  The water was rough that day so paddling with Val was a real team effort!! We saw a black fin shark! ahhhhhh!!! swimming right by our kayak (and it was shark week!) haha.  We were fine though, we then paddled along to the cave but the waves were to high we couldn't go near the rocks - so we found a "quiet" spot to go snorkeling.  The current was very strong but we were fine - snorkeled ate pineapple and snacks on the lava rocks - Val got to jump off the 30-35 ft cliff (ahhh!)


The only other thing we did on the Big Island was the helicopter ride but that was canceled because of the weather.  We got a refund.  But we had a nice drive around the island :)

I hope you enjoy our photos! And of course you can send us some business cards all of our friends are getting married and we would love to send them your way!

Join Anne on an exciting Western Med. Cruise

 

This sale includes the Western Med cruise that *I* am hosting on March 4, 2012!

Enjoy Exclusivity in a World of Choice with the newest private club at sea, MSC Yacht Club! Simply reserve a luxurious MSC Yacht Club suite to enjoy our special offer on select voyages. This credit can be used just as you wish, for instance, on Balinese massages in the MSC Aurea Spa. Our inclusive fare covers air, transfers, hotel and $200––or special $500––per suite shipboard credit. Plus, you'll enjoy a Mediterranean cruise in an exclusive enclave, complimentary wines and spirits, private restaurant and Butler service––all from $3,939pp**

Enjoy our limited time $500 shipboard credit on these select sailings: MSC FANTASIA | 11-Night Roundtrip Cruises ROME– Jan. 18, 2012 | BARCELONA– Jan. 9, 2012 MSC SPLENDIDA | 7-Night Roundtrip Cruises BARCELONA – Jan. 15 & 29, 2012 Additional MSC Yacht Club Sailings: MSC FANTASIA | 11-Night Roundtrip Cruises ROME– Feb. 20, Mar. 13, 2012 | BARCELONA– Feb. 11, Mar. 4, 2012 MSC SPLENDIDA | 7-Night Roundtrip Cruises BARCELONA – Feb 5, 12, 19, 26, 2012 Fares starting from $3,939* pp. Inclusive of: air, cruise, hotel, and transfers

Anne Rose Celebrate-Travel, Inc. 3450 Palmer Dr, Suite# 4-313 Cameron Park, CA, 95682 530-677-6454 annerose@celebrate-travel.com

 *Prices are USD, per person, double occupancy for residents of US and Canada. Rates include economy air and all applicable air taxes, one night hotel stay (date and hotel at line's discretion) and ground transfers. Offer is valid for all bookings deposited between Jun 15 - Aug 15, 2011. All Yacht Club Suites will receive $250 pp (max $500 per cabin) SBC. Offer cannot be combined with the permanent SBC component of the inclusive pricing. Air gateways include: NYC/BOS/ATL/MIA/ORD/DFW/IAH/LAX/YUL/YYZ in addition sailings of MSC Splendida include SFO. Flight arrangements from other U.S. and Canadian gateways can be made for an additional charge. Airline imposed charges including but not limited to baggage fees, special seating, and priority boarding fees are additional. Government fees and taxes vary by ship and departure port. Rate shown applies to the January 15, 29 (2012) ; February 12, 26 (2012) sailing of MSC Splendida from Barcelona (government fees and taxes of $76.69pp). MSC Cruise reserves the right to pass on any fuel surcharge without prior notice to all guests. Offer is capacity controlled, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. Certain restrictions may apply. MSC Cruises reserves the right to refuse to honor any prices/sailings/information that are erroneously printed or quoted. Offer expires August 15, 2011. Ships' registry: Panama.

Kristen and George share their amazing honeymoon in Moorea, French Polynesa

George and I had a fabulous time on our honeymoon in Tahiti thanks to you, Anne! You made every part of the process easy from the initial brainstorming, planning, payments, documents and all the follow up you did with us before, during and after our trip. We can't thank you enough for helping everything to go so smoothly! By having you book all of the transportation and excursions in advance, it allowed us to enjoy ourselves without any extra worries. The companies you booked with were very reliable and on time, which we wouldn't have known without your knowledge and expertise.

 We loved the island of Moorea and it fit our budget and personalities perfectly. There was so much to do on the island, which was very important to us on our honeymoon because we wanted to stay active. You really listened to what we were looking for and the two excursions you booked for us were great! The lagoon tour allowed us to see a lot of the island from the water and our favorite part was getting to eat some authentic Tahitian food! We also got to swim with sting rays (and some unexpected [friendly?] sharks). The 4x4 is also a must do. We loved all the views of the island on the different stops along the way. The pineapple plantation and the juice factory were some of our favorite highlights on that tour as well. And our hotel was amazing! We got upgraded to an overwater bungalow, which you requested for us and we even attended the Polynesian Dance show at the hotel which was really cool to see. The location of the hotel was really great on the island and all the staff were very friendly.

We can't wait to book another vacation with you!! I don't know how I can go back to planning trips on my own. You made it so easy for us! mauru'uru, Kristen and George

 

Honeymooners Mike and Amanda report on Big Island and Kauai

Our clients Mike and Amanda recently returned from their honeymoon on Big Island and Kauai.  Here's their newsy report on the islands, restaurants, activities:

We are food lovers - so we loved trying the different food, the freshest seafood ever! (OPA? was awesome! seasfood was OUTSTANDING) and the freshest LARGEST fruit we ever saw!  There were avocados as big as my head! We liked feeling like we were “off the beaten path” Hawaii is definitely more of a “feeling” and it seems no picture could ever do it justice or communicate the Hawaiian experience!  I don’t think our experience would have been as rich if we didn’t like seafood or if we wanted to bask in the sun and not leave the resort, Hawaii is more of adventure.

Kauai- Westin Princeville was our perfect fit! We think the hotel’s restaurant (Nanea?) was one of the best on Kauai and we loved multiple pools and hot tubs. The employees were very friendly. We would stay here again in a flash! We also loved the room included wi-fi, the market served starbucks, and they had a “drink of the day” The room was huge! We felt the food prices were very reasonable, and we did eat/drink at the hotel a lot because of this. Mike knew I wanted an "adult" only honeymoon and at times there were kids even in the "tranquility" pool so I guess you take your chances. Originally we were thinking of Sandals or an all inclusive resort and although it would have been nice, I'm glad we went to Hawaii. It was so nice to be in US and not worry about safety, water, money conversion or people speaking foreign.

 Our favorite island is Kauai, it is easier to explore. We encountered rainbows multiple times a day! It was hard to drive at night on the Big Island, it was so dark and things were much farther from our resort on Kohala Coast.

Kayak on Big Island to go cliff diving, see caves and snorkeling…The waves ended up being too big so they canceled the cliff dives/cave exploring, but we did kayak a few miles and were going to try snorkeling, however the waves were just TOO big. This was a bummer!

I would HIGHLY recommend anyone on Kauai rent a SUV to drive in. This helped us get around a lot more than a car. We originally had a car and allowed us to get the jeep for no additional cost.

 On Kauai we went to the Kauai Kookie plant/outlet where we picked up a bunch of boxes for very inexpensive and brought them home! We also loved the beer from Maui Brewing company which they had at most local restaurants- we did have some shipped hom which was pretty expensive... But we wanted to share it with our friends and fam!

Because of all the bad luck we experienced we decided to cancel the next excursion, the boat ride/ dinner on Nepali coast.It was very nice we were able to do so and not lose our money. We would have loved to do a helicopter ride, and that is another top priority for when we go back.

We came across some amazing food while on the Islands…

Big Island

1. Sushi at Sansei
2. Annie’s Burgers and Beer- LOVED
3. The Shake Shack you mentioned! The directions were very tricky, we kept thinking we were not going to find it! We almost gave up and then we stumbled on it.
4. Tex Drive In, WOW, Hot fresh Malasadas were amazing, and we got a hamburger that was tasty. Very cheap, ono food!

 Kauai

1.      Scotty’s BBQ- the one night we didn’t eat seafood! We got the BBQ platter, had brisket, pulled pork, chicken, amazing!

2.      Puka Dogs!! These were featured on the travel channel, we thought they were devine!

3.      Olympic Café- We saw our bell hop from the hotel here! This is where all the locals go to eat on Friday nights because they have all you can eat free tacos if you purchase 2 drinks per person. It was very good!

4.      CJ’s was decent food and had huge lobster, and a salad bar, also the dessert was fabulous. They gave us free dessert for Mike’s birthday, they were very nice.

Thank you for all your help and planning efforts- it truly made a memorable experience we will reminisce for a lifetime- We also look forward to returning and exploring other islands- like Maui and we would love to get my family there so they can see it for themselves!! Mahalo, Amanda and Mike

David's & Cal's honeymoon in Hawaii with pix!

Hawaii was so incredible! Coming back to reality wasn’t easy at all…you were so wonderful to work with.  Our honeymoon was truly a dream come true!  You made the planning process so easy. Your passion for travel and your extensive knowledge about the islands made making decisions seamless.  We truly can't thank you enough!  I think David and I would agree that picking a favorite island is tough but I think our favorite is a close tie between Kauai and Lanai.   
The St. Regis and the Four Seasons were just so amazing! The scenery on both islands was just breath taking. David played golf on Lanai and I tagged along to take pictures which I would recommend to anyone! It was awesome! We LOVED the helicopter tour as well. It was a great way to actually see the island of Kauai and learn the history! Overall, I can’t say enough about our honeymoon or you. We look forward to planning our next big trip to Italy with you in a few years! Thanks again Anne! You are the BEST! with aloha, David and Cal 

Elegant and inviting Le Meurice, Paris—5* member of the Dorchester Collection

Le Meurice, Paris, a 5* member of the Dorchester Collection, enjoys an exclusive address on the tony Rue Rivoli overlooking les Jardins des Tuileries in Paris.

 

Enter the lobby, and you immediately feel a world apart, a serene oasis in the heart of a busy European capital. Marbled floors, columns, statuaries, and vaulted ceilings with trompe l’oeuil artwork reflect an opulent grace that is never overwhelming or stuffy. Famed designer Philippe Starck directed the multi-euro renovations and inserted unobtrusive, quirky touches to soften the effect. A large white wall is actually a high-tech kind of ‘blackboard’ that responds to the imprint of your touch. Leave a message for friends, leave a handprint, leave a timeless legacy of your visit—that is, until the ‘board’ is wiped clean and left pristine for the next morning.

 

The restaurants are simply beautiful in design and complement the culinary artistry of their 3* Michelin chef. Afternoon tea is graceful and elegant.

 

The rooms and suites at Le Meurice are Parisian chic. Despite tapestries and dark woods, the extensive use of natural light imbues a natural airiness and lightness that is simply delightful. Even the lowest room categories are spacious while its penthouse suite, La Belle Etoile, is perfect for those seeking space, privacy, and ultimate perfection.

 

Eighty percent of their rooms are connecting (no extra charge) which is ideal for visiting dignitaries (a prince was in residence while I was there), celebrities, and powerful corporate executives who travel with an entourage of security personnel, assistants, family, and/or nannies. For that matter, connecting rooms are a boon for any large family traveling together. Each room is individually decorated yet are part of a cohesive theme. There is character in these accommodations.

 

What keeps these upscale travelers returning is the egalitarian respect and privacy assured all guests, regardless of their title or station, as much as the impeccable service and luxurious accommodations.

 

Truly the piece de resistance in this outstanding property is its top suite, La Belle Etoile, ‘the beautiful star’, aptly named because it seems to touch the heavens. The interior of this four bedroom/3 bath apartment is gorgeous, especially the master bathroom that I could easily live in. The bathroom alone is about 500 sq ft, all marbled, with a huge jetted, circular tub that could seat a party. Panoramic windows encircle the bathroom so that your 7^th floor view of Paris’ landmarks is not obstructed in any way. A few steps up from the jetted tub lead you to French doors that open up onto a stunning rooftop terrace that is about 100’ long. Perfect for parties, receptions, and family gatherings, this terrace gives you unparalleled views of iconic Paris. Imagine the views at night with Paris lit up in its glory.  Vraiment, La Belle Etoile.

 

If you are celebrating a special occasion in Paris, then a splurge at Le Meurice is not merely justified, it is imperative.

Milestone Hotel , London, England March 2011

I was beyond tired from my nearly 24hr-long journey from CA (see ­­To Taxi or Not), and each passing step from the Underground to the Milestone required more energy than I thought I could muster. "A six minute walk from the Tube", the Milestone Concierge had told me, but six minutes in my current state seemed like forever. When I spied ahead a brick facade and draped banner and flags, my legs turned to lead, and I thought, oh please, please, please let that building be the Milestone. A brass plaque announced it was indeed my destination, and at that moment, a beaming doorman, elegantly clad in frock and hat, bounced from the steps, took my luggage from me with a 'Welcome! Welcome to the Milestone!".I was home.

 

I walked inside the cozy lobby to find more smiling staffers standing at attention, all with a "welcome, Ms Rose; we have been expecting you." How did they know my name, I wondered. And then it hit me: I had not received the dreaded, all-too-frequent and never acceptable "checking in?" from a bored and/or surly Front Desk clerk who couldn't be bothered to look up from her computer at me.

 

I knew, at that moment, that I was about to experience a truly extraordinary hotel stay.

 

Butler Fran O'Hanlon stepped forward to ask if I wanted to be shown my room or tour the hotel first. Had I said I was tired? Ha! I was positively energized by my gracious and sincere welcome party.

 

To this American, the Milestone, a member of the prestigious Red Carnation Boutique Hotels Collections, looks quintessentially English with dark woods, heavy drapes, patterned fabrics and lighting. The Milestone used to be a private home before myriad commercial uses and still retains the homey character of a private home: the parlor where they now serve afternoon tea, evening piano music, and anytime conversation, clearly was the original family parlor. The dining room with flickering fireplace added to the homey ambience (albeit an elegant and chic home). A little intimate corner near the main dining room is now perfect for private dining but is thought to have once been the family's private chapel.

 

The Jockey Bar made me wish I was a drinker. Horse and jockey paraphernalia adorned this dual-level space; leather couches and club chairs invited convivial get-togethers.

 

I really loved the Conservatory--light-filled space that even a gray sky could not dim.

 

While guiding me around, Fran offered a running commentary on the hotel's history, unusual photos, or artwork (all original art, by the way--a hallmark of every property in the Red Carnation Collection) and patiently answered my numerous questions.

 

We toured the spa and indoor pool (I didn't think to bring a swimsuit), upstairs, downstairs, and then Fran opened double doors to a magnificent suite: it was mine!!! The Mistinguette suite was mine!! Sumptuously large, the suite's name paid homage to a famous French singer/dancer, nicknamed Mistinguette, and as such, was decorated in a very French-y style: red, black, gray, and striping. A large marble bath, double vanity, huge soaking tub with bath salts and cales was glorious. turndown service would include bathrobes, slippers, and a welcome drink. A large foyer with two wardrobes framed the view in front of the French doors at the far end of the suite. Three steps up the floor was a little dais with bistro table and two chairs. Beyond were French doors that opened onto a terraced, awning-covered balcony with more tables and chairs, greenery, and which overlooked part of the Conservatory and herb garden. In warm weather, I do not think I should ever leave this idyllic retreat.

 

A vanity held a tray of exotic teas, coffee, French press coffeemaker, and electric tea kettle. Another impressive touch was the cache of personalized calling cards, in an engraved case, made just for me to use while a guest. I actually did use one once, too, when shopping at Penhaligon's. The manager said she would check on the availability of a certain item and asked where to reach me. I whipped out my Milestone Hotel calling card and felt like royalty indeed.

 

The decor of the Milestone is nothing short of fabulous: original, coordinated, authentic, and inviting. Beatrice Tollman, of the Tollman Family who heads up the Red Carnation collection, personally chooses the interior decorating schemes down to the fine details, such as pieces of Murano art sculptures on a guest room table. No detail overlooked, and nothing is haphazard or left to chance.

 

But while the decor of the Milestone is gorgeous, its truly the staff who raise this hotel experience above all others. Yes, it is a cliche to say the staff are the key, but at the Milestone, the staff not only enhance your experience, they are integral to your memories. Yes, I was always greeted by name--by everyone. Yes, all my needs were anticipated and fulfilled Yes, service was attentive and discerning and efficient. But more than all that--which in itself was stupendous--the hospitality was genuine, not contrived. I actually felt like a guest in a friend's home, that the staff cared about me, me personally, and that I didn't represent merely a number on an accounting ledger. It's hard for me to describe in words the vibe of feeling special and valued.

 

I chatted with General Manager Andrew Pike over a cup of tea and incredibly delicious soup about how I was enjoying the Milestone and how wonderful his staff was and how could they possibly remember all the guests' names? he agreed his staff made all the difference and were hired based on their service orientation, desire to please, and attention to detail, even going so far as to note whether the prospective hiree pushed in his chair at the conclusion of the job interview! A little detail, certainly, but an important one that reflects many other attributes, said Mr Pike.

 

Here is another impressive service of the Milestone: upon my booking, the concierge emailed me a guest preference form with all kinds of questions about my likes/dislikes and preferences. Now granted, this was not the first time a hotel had sent me a pre-check in guest preference form, but it definitely was the first time any hotel had actually read my answers and acted on them! When I settled into my Mistinguette suite, I realized that everything I had requested was actually in place. Marvelous: they cared enough to give me exactly what I'd wanted.

 

I am not exaggerating to say that I was sad to check out of the Milestone Hotel. While I was packing, my companion was already checking her calendar to see when she could return because, as she said, 'this was the best hotel I have ever stayed at."

 

Mr Pike handwrites the welcome notes to every guest, and they're not form letters either; he personalizes his welcome letter to each guest's particular circumstances. it is a task that takes him hours per day but one he feels is important. I agree, and I think it's his welcoming hospitality that that imbues the rest of his staff.

 

Truly an extraordinary hotel and deserving of its frequent ranking as the Top Hotel in the Uk. I would recommend this property to any of my luxury clients who appreciate genuine and unpretentious hospitality, personalized and gracious service, fine decor in an unbeatable Kensington location across from Kensington Palace and Gardens. The Milestone is my new favorite hotel in the world.

Westin Valencia--Spain June 2011

I loved this fabulous 5* property. Spanish mission-style facade in a square around a lushly landscaped interior courtyard. The lobby is spacious and inviting. Matteo greeted me at the door and personally escorted me to the Business Center and helped me log onto their complimentary computer for Internet access.

 

Check-in was quick and efficient. My deluxe accommodations were quintessential Westin: heavenly linens and bed, heavenly bath amenities, large room with views overlooking the flowers and fountains of the courtyard. My windows opened up so I could fresh, perfumed air instead of A/C if I wanted.

 

Desk, easy chairs, flat screen TV, complete tea and coffeemaking facilities, and minibar made for a supremely comfortable base of operations for my explorations of Valencia. With the historical city center a 10 minute walk away over the Bridge of Flowers, the Westin was extremely convenient.

 

Breakfast was also a heavenly affair (do you detect a theme here with 'heavenly'?): a humongous buffet of cold cuts and cured meats, tantalizing cheeses, incredibly ripe and picture-perfect Valencian fruits, cereals, pastries, and even a made-to-order omelette station.

 

As a vegan, I usually hve problems finding something nutritionally complete to eat when I'm away from home. But not at Westin Valencia! I was overjoyed to find that soymilk was a standard offering. Francisco, restaurant manager, was happy to make me a Super Blueberry Healthy Smoothie made with soy milk. When he learned I didn't eat dairy, he made a point of going into the kitchen to bring me two cartons of soy yogurt that was so delectably creamy (I find the soy yogurt in the US to be rather chalky tasty--not at Westin Valencia). then Francisco also brought me a plate of sweet, fully ripe Valencia fruits: luscious strawberries and blueberries, peaches, pineapple, and of course, all the fresh-squeezed Valencia orange juice I could drink. Fortified with such an amazing breakfast, I was ready to tackle a full day of Valencia sightseeing.

 

The other members of my group had raved about the Westin's homemade gazpacho which I had missed (I had opted for a heavenly bath instead of dinner on the night of our arrival). So I was craving for a taste of their soup.

 

I got my chance finally at my last breakfast at Westin before checking out. I told Ignacio, the F&B manager, that i was craving for a taste of their gazpacho, and to his credit, didn't remark on my odd breakfast request. But he went into the kitchen to get me a cup of their gazpacho and yes, it was delicious. No cucumbers in their gazpacho recipe, but I think the key is in the quality of the produce they start with.

 

I was really sorry to leave the Westin Valencia as it had everything a visitor could ask for: great location, terrific accommodations, incredible food and hospitality, gracious staff. Definitely a must-experience hotel in Valencia. I will be back.

Hotel Can Cera review--Mallorca Spain 2011

I was excited about staying at the Hotel Can Cera when I'd heard that this newly restored, ancient palace-turned-hotel had just opened, and we were slated to be its first guests. Wow! I love being first.

 

First impression of the hotel was awesome: a large wrought-iron gate, so Spanish in style, just on the inside of massive, ancient wooden doors, guarded the entrance to the courtyard, lush with palms and a profusion of colorful blooms. Staircases and window shutters with more wrought-iron reminded me of a movie set. I love feeling like I'm starring in my own movie--I guess it's the romantic in me. The staff came out to welcome us and gave a little of the estate's history. The courtyard and massive doors were large enough to accommodate the previous owners' horses and carriages. Just spectacular.

 

Inside, an intimate reception area really did look like it was a villa, not a hotel. And the hotel retained all the character of its former incarnations as a private home. Each room was different in shape and size and decor, totally unique. Yet the commonality was fine decor, a supremely comfortable bed and high-thread count linens, marble, slate, tile, and stucco, upscale bath and amenities. Wonderful textures everywhere.

 

Suffice to say that at the end of my 18hr days in Mallorca, I couldn't wait to return to the comfort and grace of the 5* Hotel Can Cera, which is centrally located in Palma, the main town on the island.

 

Breakfast was a delightful affair and yes, they did have soymilk. And as a special favor to me, the server did make me a fruit-soymilk smoothie which is not usually part of their cold cuts/cheeses/pastries/cereals/fruits repast. She also made me a cappuccino using soymilk which is a rare treat.

 

The staff here really go out of their way to accommodate guests' needs. With only 12 rooms, this boutique hotel prides itself on service. No business center, but the Front Desk has a complimentary laptop to lend to guests for free Internet access.

 

And our last morning, since we were checking out at 4:30am (yes, am) ,the kichen had prepared us hearty box breakfasts to sustain us.

 

I was sorry to leave Hotel Can Cera and Mallorca. I would stay here again in a heartbeat!