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Historic Luxury Hotels Tips
Historic Luxury Hotels Defined
What makes a hotel a “historic hotel”? Well, like most things in the hotel world, this is up for interpretation. In the United States, an organization called the National Trust Historic Hotels of America (HHA) defines a historic hotel. The HHA is a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and has identified more than 200 quality historic hotels that have "faithfully maintained their historic architecture and ambiance." To be selected for this program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old, listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places or recognized locally as having historic significance. Keep in mind that a historic rating does not necessarily qualify the hotel for the “luxury” category, which I define as having exemplary service, fine dining and amenities not available elsewhere.
If you want both history and luxury, look for hotels that belong to organizations such as the Leading Hotels of the World; have won accolades from the media, such as Travel + Leisure; or have been written up in magazine such as the Robb Report. Historic hotels taken in hand by hospitality giants, such as the Ritz or Orient Express, are also a guarantee that you’ll have both luxury and history the way you want. I’ve detailed just a few of the world’s best historic hotels in this book.
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Historic Hotels Enrich Travel
Travel brings history to life. No book or documentary fulfills the personal sense of history you feel when you actually walk paths of the past. Standing in the midst of historic sites invokes deep respect for the struggles and sacrifices that led to life today. Countries and cities around the world strive to preserve and protect their heritage.
For instance, Hamburg, Germany is a dichotomy of dramatic history and Old World charm in a cosmopolitan present day city of steel and glass skyscrapers. From mega-resorts to intimate inns, finding accommodations in Hamburg is rarely a problem. However, choosing the best accommodations for personal tastes and interests may be more challenging. Many travelers find that staying at a historic luxury hotel enriches their travel experience.
The Hotel Atlantic Kempinski, a member of Leading Hotels of the World, opened its doors in 1909 as a grand hotel for wealthy ocean steamer passengers preparing for their voyage. If the walls could talk, they would tell marvelous tales of guests that included kings, emperors, princes, dukes and duchesses, international film celebrities and industrial magnates. Today, after almost 100 years, the five-star Hotel Atlantic remains the leading historic hotel destination in Hamburg for discerning travelers.
Often called the “white castle,” Hotel Atlantic’s dramatic Edwardian white gabled exterior houses an equally impressive interior. The marble lobby sparkles with glittering chandeliers and an impressive collection of artwork and priceless antiques. Guest rooms blend Old World decor with modern amenities, like wireless Internet access and lavish bathrooms. Two acclaimed restaurants serve gourmet international and Asian cuisine. The Energy Clinic is a state-of-the-art spa specializing in massage and energy treatments from cultures around the world. And, the Atlantic PrivateMax (the first private cinema in a hotel in Germany) offers hotel guests exclusive film screenings for up to eight people. Located on the scenic shores of Lake Alster, the Hotel Atlantic is a natural starting point for exploring historic Hamburg.
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Berlin, Germany Historic Hotel
The Adlon Hotel celebrated its centenary in 2007. In 1907, Lorenz Adlon, a wealthy restaurateur and wine merchant, built the Hotel Adlon at the Brandenburg Gate. His motto was “Welcome to the Adlon, a hotel that wants to be so much more to its guests, with its ambiance, its service and last but not least, its unique location.”
It served as the official hotel of the 1936 Olympics and has seen multitudes of luminaries stay there. Today, the hotel has certainly changed and grown, but luxury has always been a priority. It made the Condé Nast Gold List 2007.
Dining The gourmet restaurant Lorenz Adlon has a spectacular view of the Brandenburg Gate. The menu offers French cuisine in an elegant, exclusive atmosphere. Haute cuisine creations, fine wines and impeccable service unite to make a gastronomic heaven.
Spa The Adlon Spa includes a pool, fitness, and wellness area accessible by a private elevator, enabling hotel guests to access the pool area wearing only a robe. There’s a whirlpool, saunas and massage services.
Deluxe Touch Take a tour in a BMW Z4 Coupé. The hotel is an exclusive partner of BMW. You can reserve with the concierge.
Details Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin Unter den Linden 77 10117 Berlin, Germany
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Festival Fans Flock to Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland is a city that loves to celebrate. Although summer is the primary festival season, festivals and special events flourish year-round. The annual Edinburgh International Film Festival in August draws celebrities and cinematic treats from around the globe. The Military Tattoo celebrates over 50 years of military spectacular and music set against the world famous backdrop of magnificent Edinburgh Castle. Festival Fringe presents more than 1,800 different shows in 261 venues. And, there are still the Leith Festival, Children’s Festival, International Festival, Book Festival, Jazz Festival, Edinburgh Mela, Christmas and Hogmanay just to name a few. It’s worth a trip to Edinburgh to join the fun and enjoy this historic city’s fairytale and cosmopolitan present. Plan ahead. Many Edinburgh festivals and area hotels sell out months in advance.
As in many historic travel destinations, staying in a hotel that is centrally located and part of the city’s history offers a unique sense of place. The Balmoral Hotel is an Edinburgh landmark. This five-star historic luxury hotel is located in the heart of Edinburgh’s main shopping area overlooking magnificent Edinburgh Castle. Originally known as a “railway hotel,” the opulent hotel was opened in 1902 for wealthy travelers preparing for or taking a break from their railway journeys. The famous Balmoral clock tower, viewed from all over the city, is traditionally set two minutes fast so that passengers don’t miss their train.
Beautifully refurnished, the Balmoral Hotel retains its historic charm complemented by contemporary comforts and conveniences, like well-appointed guestrooms and suites with the latest technology, a luxury spa, fully-equipped gym and Michelin-starred restaurant. It remains a first-choice hotel for dignitaries and celebrities visiting Edinburgh. In 2007, J.K Rowling finished Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows at The Balmoral. Want to stay in her room? Request room 652.
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Edinburgh, Scotland Historic Hotel
The Balmoral Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel (always synonymous with luxury), is a five-star property in the heart of Edinburgh. It has 188 opulent suites and stylish rooms with views of Edinburgh Castle, the Old Town or the hotel’s internal courtyard. The hotel is located on Princes Street, in Edinburgh's main shopping area and next to Waverley Station. Service in every area is impeccable. It is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World and made the Condé Nast Gold List 2007. Many Edinburgh hotels claim to have Edinburgh's landmarks on their doorstep, but the Balmoral is one of the few that can say their doorstep is a landmark.
Dining The hotel’s main restaurant, named simply, “number one,” has certainly lived up to its name. The Michelin-starred number one is recognized as one of Scotland's best restaurants, with Chef Jeff Bland providing outstanding cuisine. You can’t go wrong with the chef’s tasting menu.
Spa The Balmoral Spa was voted 'Scotland's Top Urban Day Spa' in Condé Nast Traveler's 2007 Readers' Spa Awards. It offers five treatment rooms, a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, gymnasium and exercise studio.
Deluxe Touch The unusual décor lets you know this isn’t just any historic hotel. Bedrooms are designed with the earthy colors of the moors, mists and heathers that one associates with Scotland. Natural fabrics were used throughout: linens, silks, wools and leather. Artwork reflects Scottish themes and includes original works. Blankets, on the end of every bed, are exclusively designed for the hotel by Johnston's of Elgin.
Berlin, Germany boasts a unique blend of grim and gracious history and modern world-class museums and cultural attractions. With reunification and rebirth after the Berlin Wall came down, Berlin hums with a vibrant trend-setting energy. It is a capital city that embraces change. It is never dull.
As with most major historic travel destinations, it pays to do your homework when planning a trip to Berlin. Staying in a historic luxury hotel helps make the most of a visit. Hotel Adlon Kempinski is centrally located on the Pariser Platz next to the famous Brandenburg Gate within walking distance to Museum Island, theaters, opera, upscale shopping, gourmet dining and lively nightlife.
The founder of the original Hotel Adlon was Lorenz Adlon, the son of a shoemaker and an apprentice carpenter, who dreamed of one day opening one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. In 1907, his dream became a reality and within a short time, the Hotel Adlon was the place to see and be seen. The nobility gave up their winter residences to live at the Hotel Adlon and it became the hotel of choice for visiting royalty and international celebrities. Following the war, the original hotel was renovated and for a time thrived until it was torn down in 1984. The rebirth of the Hotel Adlon coincided with the rebirth of the Federal Republic of Germany in 1997, echoing the original dream of Lorenz Adlon as one of the Leading Hotels of the World. Travel & Leisure magazine cites Hotel Adlon as one of the World’s Best Hotels. The Condé Nast Gold List praises all aspects of the hotel. In 2007, the historic Hotel Adlon celebrates its 100th birthday and “new” Hotel Adlon Kempinski celebrates its 10th birthday. Join the celebration.
Between business and sightseeing, rejuvenate in luxury in a spacious guestroom or suite with the largest and most lavish marble and granite bathrooms in Europe, including heated floors and steambaths in all suites. Need anything? Personal butlers offer impeccable attention to details. Shop the exclusive Hotel Adlon shopping arcade. Dine on German and international specialties at the Restaurant Lorenz Adlon on or on the summer terrace of Restaurant Quarre overlooking the dramatic Brandenburg Gate. And, for a best in-depth look at Berlin, the Hotel Adlon Concierge will arrange historic walking or bike tours or a romantic barge river cruise along the Havel River and Spree River.
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St. Petersburg, Russia Historic Hotel
Another Rocco Forte Hotel, the Hotel Astoria St. Petersburg, captures the essence of Russia with interiors scrupulously designed to recreate the grandeur synonymous with the historic city. Located in St Isaac’s Square at the hub of St Petersburg's city center, the St Isaac’s Cathedral is just opposite the hotel. The Hermitage Museum is only blocks away. The 213 rooms and suites at Hotel Astoria were carefully furnished with comfort and tranquility in mind. Contemporary facilities are mixed with elegant decor, luxurious marble bathrooms and, in many rooms, breathtaking views over St Isaac's Square. The historic luxury hotel is a gem.
Dining Authentic Russian cuisine is found at the hotel’s restaurant Davidov. Try the 'Russian Table' on the weekends. Plates of salads, pickles and treasures from the land and sea are available.
Spa The spa offers a range of treatments including Swedish massage and individually tailored massages. There is a sauna and steam in the hotel gym, which is open 24 hours The spa made the Condé Nast Gold List 2007.
Deluxe Touch Taste chilled vodkas and caviar at the restaurant's Caviar Bar. There are more than 80 assorted vodkas to try!
Details 39 Bolshaya Morskaya 190000 St Petersburg, Russia Tel: +7 812 494 5757
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Magical Moments in Madrid
Madrid, Spain is both a grande dame and a colorful gypsy. Old Madrid is steeped with colorful history. Modern Madrid is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Beautiful gardens and spotless streets and neighborhoods showcase the Madridilenos’ pride in their city and country.
Exploring the fascinating past of historic cities makes travel more memorable. Seasoned and discerning travelers choose a historic luxury hotel that lives up to the destination and exceeds expectations. The Hotel Ritz in Madrid is such a hotel. For starters, Hotel Ritz sits in the heart of the popular Prado area between Retiro Park, Teatro de la Zarzuela and Madrid’s major museums. Stroll the elegant tree-lined Paseo del Prado and enjoy its bounty, including The Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and Reina Sofia National Museum.
Accolades abound for Hotel Ritz Madrid. It is a member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World and both Travel & Leisure magazine and Condé Nast magazine cite Hotel Ritz as one of the top hotels in the world. Designed by legendary hotelier César Ritz, Hotel Ritz is reminiscent of a Baroque palace. King Alfonso XIII presided over the opening ceremony of the Hotel Ritz in 1910. Public areas feature soaring ceilings, antiques and priceless artwork. Dine in style at Goya Restaurant or casually in the Lobby Diana Lounge or The Ritz Terrace and gardens. Sip a signature Goya cocktail. After a busy day, retreat to a sumptuous and spacious guestroom or suite decorated in Louis XVI style with rich hand woven carpets, embroidered linen sheets and marble bathrooms. Classic elegance is complemented by modern amenities like wireless Internet, satellite television and a comprehensive business center. And, there is never a lackadaisical “manana” (tomorrow) attitude at the Hotel Ritz, exceptional attention to details and impeccable service are present day priorities.
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Hamburg, Germany Historic Hotel
The Hotel Atlantic Kempinski has been linked to the city of Hamburg’s history and social life ever since it first opened in 1909 as a Grand Hotel for passengers booked on luxury ocean liners. The snow-white façade is a local landmark. You know you’ll get great service – the hotel has 167 rooms and more than 250 employees. Ask for the BMW suite or the James Bond Suite for some surprises.
Dining The “Atlantic-Restaurant" offers fine dining and a magnificent view of the Alster Lake. Chef Sven Büttner is well known in German top gastronomy circles and is one of 13 members of the hip association of chefs “Die jungen Wilden” (The Young Furiosos), whose motto is “Different. Younger. More furioso.”
Spa The hotel’s spa is an "Energy Clinic" and one of only a few of its kind in the world. There are saunas, a pool and an extensive range of treatments. They promise you’ll leave refreshed, rejuvenated and energized.
Deluxe Touch The hotel's "PrivateMax" is the first private cinema in a German hotel. Book it for a private screening!
Details An der Alster 72-79 20099 Hamburg Tel.: 040 2888 0
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The Art of Travel in Amsterdam
Amsterdam, Holland is a city of contrasts. It is a a historic city and a hip modern city. It is liberal and traditional. Amsterdam is also one of the most colorful cities in the world for historic travel. More than 7,000 17th century houses in an artist’s palette of colors line 160 canals. Over 600,000 tulip and other flowers bulbs grace parks and gardens. It is a city of Old Masters (think Rembrandt and Van Gogh) and modern arts. Amsterdam is one of the world’s most important diamond markets and a center of delicate delftware. It is a fun-loving city where a world famous Red Light District and daring discotheques share space with world-class museums and the arts. Virtually everything a traveler seeks is within a short walk or bike ride.
The historic five-star Hotel l’Europe Amsterdam is all about the art of travel in Amsterdam. Perched on the banks of the Amstel River, Hotel l’Europe Amsterdam is at the center of the city’s best shopping, cultural attractions, restaurants and nightlife. It blends 19th century ambience with 21st century comfort and conveniences. Original works of art by Dutch masters complement modern amenities. The Excelsior Restaurant on the riverfront prepares artfully delicious culinary creations. Hospitality is also an artform. Guests’ needs are anticipated before they are requested. The concierge is always at hand to assist with excursions and entertainment bookings. Such excellence does not go unrecognized; the Hotel l’Europe Amsterdam is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. It has also received the Bib Gourmand award by Michelin Guide and has appeared on the Travel & Leisure’s 500 Best Hotels in the World list.
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Amsterdam Historic Hotel
When you arrive at the Hotel de l’Europe, look for original paintings of Dutch masters in the lobby. The 111-year old hotel is one of the Leading Hotels of the World. It investe d in several original 19th century paintings that decorate the walls, and in one of the banqueting rooms, the Amstel I, the ceiling was painted in 19th century baroque style.
In 1996 the hotel celebrated its centenary anniversary. In 2006, the hotel made the Travel + Leisure 500 Best Hotels in the World list.
Dining
Restaurant Excelsior has fabulous views of the Amstel river and the Munt Tower and has won many accolades for its food. If you go for lunch at Restaurant Excelsior, don’t look for a menu. The chef creates a three-course meal just for you, based on the daily fresh ingredients.
Spa
A fitness center features a swimming pool, fitness equipment, Finnish sauna and solarium. Services such as massage, manicure, pedicure and facial treatments can be booked on request.
Deluxe Touch
Have your aperitif served in the tasting room of the wine cellar. Sommelier Dannis Apeldoorn provides you with information on the wines to be served and tells you about his extensive assortment of thousands of special bottles of wine.
Details
Nieuwe Doelenstraat 2-8 1012 CP Amsterdam The Netherlands Tel: +31-20 -5311 777
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White Nights in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg captures the very essence of Russia for travelers interested in architectural, cultural and historic travel. Founded in 1703 by Tsar Peter the Great, the city is like a treasure chest filled with illustrious pastel palaces, colorful cathedrals, picturesque canals and delectable cuisine. Add the magic of incandescent White Nights to the treasure trove and it is impossible not to be dazzled by St. Petersburg. During the Northern Hemisphere’s summer, the sun never totally sets in St. Petersburg. Darkness is not complete; hence white nights. St. Petersburg becomes a 24-hour city. Bars and restaurants stay open and couples stroll along the River Neva in the magical twilight wee hours. The International Stars of the White Nights Festival runs from mid-May through mid-July and is must-see for lovers of ballet, opera and classical music.
The historic luxury Hotel Astoria offers the perfect base for exploring the splendors of St. Petersburg and attending Stars of White Nights performances. A professional concierge staff handles the details for booking the best St. Petersburg tours and tickets for Stars of White Nights performances. Just as St. Petersburg captures essence of Russia; Hotel Astoria captures the essence of St. Petersburg. Opened in 1912, it was considered the primary hotel for Russian royalty and high society. Today, extensive renovations and updates retain the original royal ambiance with authentic Russian antiques while integrating the latest technology and modern amenities. Guestrooms and suites with large marble baths are tranquil havens in the busy city. The award-winning restaurant, Davidov, tempts the palate with exquisite caviars, icy premium vodka and a variety of international cuisine.
Don’t forget, a visa is required for travel to Russia. Complete a visa support form in the country of origin and send it to the hotel. Hotel Astoria takes care of expediting visa procedures for its guests. Attention to detail and exceeding expectations are marks of the best historic luxury hotels; that’s why Leading Hotels of the World offered membership in their prestigious collection of luxury hotels to Hotel Astoria.
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Madrid Historic Hotel
The Hotel Ritz in Madrid shares with the Ritz hotels in Paris and London a reputation as one of the original grand luxury hotels in Europe. It was inspired by King Alfonso XIII’s desire to build a luxury hotel to rival the Ritz in Paris. It opened its doors in 1910 in the presence of King Alfonso XIII. The facade has been designated a historic monument.
It is situated between the Retiro Park, the Teatro de la Zarzuela and Madrid's most important museums: the Prado, the Thyssen Bornemisza and the Centro de Arte Moderno Reina Sofia. The hotel made the Condé Nast Gold List 2007. Rooms have Real Fábrica de Tapices carpets in gold, mauve, or cream and 19th century clocks.
Dining The Goya Restaurant is highly esteemed for its Sunday Brunch, with a special buffet just for kids. The dinner menu offers a wide selection of Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine.
Spa No exclusive spa here, but there is a Wellness Center equipped with treadmills, step machines, rowing machines, static bicycles, free weights, weight training equipment, satellite television, radio and daily newspapers, plus a sauna. Massages, sunbed and facials can also be booked.
Deluxe Touch Just walking in the door is transporting. The gorgeous Belle Époque style throughout, with antiques everywhere and soaring ceilings, exudes luxury.
Details Plaza de la Lealtad 5 28014 Madrid, Spain Tel: +34 91 701 67 67
