The boutique hotel is rising to new heights in New York City, as Parkview Developers plans to open the Big Apple’s first gay hotel. The OUT NYC, scheduled to open in phases throughout 2012, will be located on 42nd St. in the heart of Manhattan. Developers hope it becomes the premier resort and entertainment venue for both tourists and locals from the gay community.

The project’s first phase is the XL NIGHTCLUB, an 11,000 sq ft lounge, cabaret, and dance club set to feature noted gay entertainers John Blair and Beto Sutter. When the doors open it will be the first gay nightclub to open in the city in over a decade. Visitors can expect to see typical dance club features including several dance floors, modern LED light shows, and a state-of-the-art stage for live acts.

As for the hotel itself, current plans include a property with 105 rooms. The rooms will be designed in a chic, modern décor that speaks to the LGBT community in a way that is up-scale, classy, and sophisticated. According to officials the OUT NYC is “an idea whose time has come.” If all goes according to plans the hotel will not only be simply a place for gay tourists to stay while they’re in New York, it will become the focal point of New York City nightlife for the entire LGBT community.

To that end the hotel will also include a café and restaurant managed by the same group responsible for the success of the Eatery Restaurant in the Hell’s Kitchen district. The restaurant will include banquet space and private rooms to accommodate everything from large parties to intimate gatherings. Hotel officials also plan to provide both weddings and honeymoon packages for gay couples.

Nightly rates start at $250.

The Out
http://www.theoutnyc.com/
510 West 42nd Street
New York, NY 10036

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Tverskaya is perhaps the most famous street in all of Moscow. But it also happens to be home of the brand-new InterContinental Moscow Tverskaya Hotel. After a 10 year absence from Russia, InterContinental Hotels Group makes its return with a luxury property designed to give business and leisure travellers and experience which incorporates all Russia is. Just minutes from Red Square and the Kremlin, the hotel projects an image of classic Russian design combined with a new embrace of contemporary influences.

InterContinental Moscow Tverskaya offers a total of 203 rooms including 16 junior and senior suites. There are also three penthouse suites where luxury meets culture in one of Russia’s most important forms of art: ballet. Each of the suites honours one of that country’s most famous dancers — Isadora Duncan, Vaslav Nijinsky, and Galina Ulanova. In all of the rooms guests will be treated to traditional Russian tastes perfectly accented with cog-shaped reading tables. The design is stylish and sophisticated yet purposely reflective of the city’s industrial heart.

Although the hotel is now open for business it is not yet complete. A luxury spa is slated to open during the first quarter of 2012 along with the hotel’s gym facilities. For banqueting and meeting purposes there are 10 meeting rooms with a total of 600 square meters. The main ballroom provides for weddings, corporate events, and private dining, while the normal dining needs of guests are provided through the main restaurant featuring traditional Russian and European cuisines.

Rates start at over $400 per night.

Intercontinental Moscow Tverskaya
Tverskaya Ulitsa 22
Moscow, 125009
Russia

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Also integrated on the hotel page is Google Maps, which displays the hotel, as well as other attractions that are nearby.

This is a tremendous upgrade for The Four Seasons, and was rumored to have cost $18 million.

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The six participants include Choice Hotels International, Hilton Worldwide, Hyatt Hotels, IHG, Marriott International, and Wyndham Worldwide. All six companies own an equal share of the new company and will work together to further develop the site. They are also looking to add more hotel chains who might want to participate.

The new site is being made possible with technology acquired through an asset purchase from Hotelicopter. In addition to allowing customers direct bookings, the Hotelicopter platform provides an avenue for destination marketing that can help drive customers to member hotel websites while they search a specific locale. This added convenience is expected to boost web traffic and further the group’s marketing efforts.

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Qantas Airlines has introduced a new first-class cabin on its A380 jet that looks like something out of a science fiction film. In fact, reviewers at TechEBlog had no trouble saying it reminded them of the USS Enterprise from the popular “Star Trek” series. One look and you’ll understand why.

Designed by Marc Newson, the exclusive cabin features leather seats, full-length beds, and a common social area, all enclosed in a very sleek and futuristic package worthy of any intergalactic ship. In addition, everything under passenger control is operated by LCD touch screens. Individual “suites” include futuristic sliding doors with dark window panels.

The cabin is a must-see for all Qantas travellers, but you’ll have to book a first-class flight from Sydney to Los Angeles or London to do so. With any luck Qantas may more of the new cabins in the future.

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The American-based Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company will be making its Austrian debut during the second quarter of 2012, after being selected by Verny Capital to operate a newly acquired property located within Vienna’s historic Ringstrasse district. The announcement further solidifies the working relationship between Ritz-Carlton and Verny Capital, following the Verny acquisition of the Ritz-Carlton Moscow this past May. Verny Capital officials chose Ritz-Carlton because of their reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality.

The new hotel will be situated inside two historic, 19th-century palaces which have long been protected under Austrian preservation laws. The area in which the palaces are located is one of cultural and historic significance in part of what’s considered Vienna’s “old city.” Although specific plans have not yet been announced, it’s expected that the hotel’s 202 rooms will incorporate the city’s rich heritage as a centre for Europe’s classical music scene. Very near the site is a selection of other historically important buildings erected during the late 19th century. The location of the hotel provides easy access to all the most important sites Vienna has to offer.

Beyond the historic importance and cultural influences, the hotel is also expected to be a classic example of Ritz-Carlton’s world renowned service. The company has already voiced its commitment to making a stay at the hotel a memorable one for all guests. That said, we would expect spacious and well apportioned rooms, the best amenities, concierge service, fine linens, tasteful furnishings, and more.

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The former Ambassador East Hotel has been a Chicago landmark since its opening in 1926. Now, thanks to iconic hotel designer and developer Ian Schrager, the legend of days gone by has been transformed to rise to new heights of sophistication and elegance for the discriminating traveller. Schrager, widely known for his revolutionary boutique hotel concept birthed in the 1980s is once again changing the luxury hotel paradigm with a new brand known simply as PUBLIC. The brand is Schrager’s attempt to redefine luxury travel without the unnecessary excess which has long made it unaffordable to the masses. His PUBLIC brand changes the way we think of luxury hotels, thus allowing access to anyone who wants it.

At the heart of PUBLIC Chicago is a design theme that harkens back to the days of the American and European coffee houses in the 1950s. The hotel’s public spaces are designed to encourage both socialization and business interaction by including relaxing sofas and chairs intermingled with workspace tables. Soft colours and sleek lines combined with refined and low-key décor, present a sophisticated space that is instantly classic without being ostentatious. When you’re in the hotel’s lobby you will know you’re somewhere special — though you might not know exactly why.

Moving on to the accommodations, PUBLIC Chicago’s 285 rooms strike a perfect balance between comfort and functionality. Immediately upon entry your eyes will be captivated by Schrager’s “no color” color palette, which makes great use of soft neutrals for a peaceful and relaxing ambience. The hand-picked furniture is specifically selected for each room to provide what the hotel chain defines as “superb integrity.” Perfectly complementing the furnishings are custom-designed lighting systems, draperies, and artwork.

Guests will enjoy a range of amenities including 300 count linens by Frette, oversized desks, complementary high-speed wireless Internet, concierge service, daily housekeeping, stocked minibar, and spectacular views of the city of Chicago.

PUBLIC has redefined the luxury travel model to make your stay more about the experience, and less about price or class; a new paradigm perfectly encapsulated in the hotel’s public and private spaces.

Nightly rates start at under $200.

PUBLIC Chicago
http://www.publichotels.com/chicago/home/
1301 North State Parkway
Chicago IL 60610

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Hilton Hotels is headed to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico according to a recently released statement from Hilton Worldwide. The company announced it has signed an agreement with Grupo Hotelero Santa Fe to develop and operate the popular tourist destination’s first Hilton resort. The new property is scheduled to open in mid-2012.

Not only will the new hotel be conveniently located just a few minutes from Puerto Vallarta’s airport and cruise ship terminal, but it will also offer the same luxurious hotel experience Hilton Hotels & Resorts is known for worldwide. The hotel will feature nearly 260 world-class rooms as well as honeymoon suites and executive accommodations. Rooms will feature modern décor, elegant design, plenty of amenities, and an atmosphere designed around comfort and relaxation.

State- of-the-art facilities will include a spa for self-indulgent pampering, a complete fitness center with swimming pool and Jacuzzi, a beauty salon and solarium, and a host of exciting entertainment options. For your dining pleasure Hilton is planning several different restaurants featuring international, Italian, and local Mexican cuisine. The entire package is capped off with a nightclub featuring the best martinis and a stunning view of the Bandera Bay.

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In Southern Virginia’s Patrick County, at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, lies the sleepy bedroom community of Meadows of Dan. This quaint and unincorporated community doesn’t seem like much to travellers passing through, but that’s only because most of them don’t know what’s there. For hidden away is a unique resort that combines the ultimate in luxury with an unparalleled respect for the great outdoors: Primland.

Primland has always been a great property indeed, but now it’s being improved with the addition of the new Golden Eagle Tree House. This new creation is one of four new suites being added to the resort.

The Golden Eagle Tree House is designed specifically to provide a romantic and ultra-private getaway for couples or honeymooners. It’s located near the fourth green of Primland’s magnificent Highland Golf Course – which itself is fairly impressive – ranked as 13th best in the country by Golf Digest Magazine. As for the accommodations, the single bedroom suite consists of 384 square feet of space including separate kitchen, living room, and bathroom. There’s also a 340 square foot deck overlooking the awe-inspiring Dan River Gorge. Guests are given access to the Tree House with covered golf carts and a very impressive wooden bridge walkway.

Even more impressive is the fact that the Golden Eagle Tree House is made almost entirely of cedar. The building was designed and fabricated in France, then shipped to the United States where it was assembled, finished, and decorated. The decor is just what you’d expect from a wilderness tree house with plenty of wood, natural accents, and nature-inspired furniture. Once you experience the Golden Eagle Tree House, you may not want to come out until your stay comes to an end. If you do, you’ll be free to enjoy a variety of activities including golf, hunting, hiking, and so much more.

While you’re at Primland be sure to visit their exquisite spa. You’ll experience incredible treatments designed for the utmost in relaxation and beauty, all in a natural environment that will take your breath away.

Nightly rates for the Gold Eagle Tree House range from $425 – $539/ night throughout the year.

2000 Busted Rock Road
Meadows of Dan, VA 24120
Phone: 866-960-7746

http://primland.com/accommodations/golden-eagle-treehouse/

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The St. Regis brand is well known around the world for their exquisite service. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, a Starwood category 7 hotel, is no exception. Set in the tropical paradise that is French Polynesia, it all begins with your arrival.

Upon arriving at the small, open-air Bora Bora Airport you will be met by a courteous and attentive greeter from St. Regis who will welcome you with a smile and conduct you to your boat transfer. From there you’ll enjoy a mesmerizing boat ride across crystal blue waters to The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. Along the way you will be awestruck by the scenery surrounding you; it’s the only place in the world that looks better in person than on a postcard.

Overview and Amenities

As you arrive to the resort, you’ll notice is the majestic view of Mount Otemanu rising into the sky. The St. Regis Bora Bora is an equally majestic resort, situated on 44 acres of lush greenery, a white sand beach, and peaceful lagoon. It is adorned with exotic woods, native fabrics, and regional artwork, which makes for an atmosphere of beauty, elegance, and relaxation. As you step off the boat the St Regis staff is awaiting your arrival with a refreshing glass of tropical juice. Check-in is in the form of a private tour of the entire property via a golf cart driven by your personal ‘butler.’ Once the tour is complete, your butler proceeds directly to your private villa or suite to explain all of the features within your accommodation.

The St. Regis Bora Bora offers 100 villas and suites, built over water or on the beach. Every villa and suite has its own majestic view. Some of the units include luxury amenities such as outdoor whirlpools and private swimming pools. For the ultimate in luxurious living, you might want to book a stay at the resort’s ‘Royal Estate.’

The Royal Estate includes two individual living rooms, a dining room with a terrace, a chef’s kitchen, three bedrooms, a private hamam and whirlpool, and a private spa and treatment room. Outdoors there are three pavilions surrounding a gorgeous swimming pool and a private white sand beach where you can relax completely undisturbed. The entire suite is approximately 13,000 square feet of sumptuous, indulgent space.

If you aren’t staying in the Royal Estate, with access to a private treatment room, your stay will be further enhanced by the resort’s Spa Miri Miri, situated on its own private island. At the spa you’ll be treated to traditional Pacific Rim and Tahitian treatments that will leave you relaxed and refreshed. In addition, its state-of-the-art gym facilities boast all of the latest in fitness technology and equipment. The resort also has a full size tennis court, complete with complimentary rackets and balls.

While you’re relaxing in the spa your children will be well taken care of in the St. Regis Kids Club. Here they will enjoy a wide range of activities geared specifically to their age and interests. You’ll be comfortable in knowing they are in the care of trained professionals who will keep them happy, healthy, and entertained.

The main pool is near the beach and has an attached bar, allowing guests to order drinks and snacks while sitting on underwater stools. If you’re looking for a more private experience, the resort also offers a more secluded pool area that is geared toward adults. It has private cabana areas and full poolside butler service.

Dining Options

The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort offers a daily breakfast buffet. One of the highlights of the buffet is the many fresh squeezed juices, including orange, banana, guava, and pineapple, to name a few. The breakfast offerings are extensive, and what isn’t readily available can be made to order.

For your dining pleasure later in the day, the St. Regis Bora Bora offers three different restaurant options. The Sushi Take Restaurant is Bora Bora’s only Japanese sushi and sake restaurant featuring an onsite sushi chef. If you prefer local cuisine, the Te Pahu restaurant is a Mediterranean style experience, featuring all-day dining with an open kitchen and beachside tables. International cuisine and French Polynesia’s finest gastronomic experience is found at the hallmark Lagoon Restaurant, by the famous Jean-Georges.

Services & Amenities

According to the St. Regis philosophy, a luxury resort is more than just wonderful accommodations. St. Regis takes service to the next level by offering guests much more than they experience elsewhere, starting with personalized butler service. The butler service may be called on demand for various needs, including complimentary golf cart pick-up as a mode of transportation to other areas within the property. Twice daily maid service, in-room dining, the kids club, babysitting service upon request, dry-cleaning and laundry, an art gallery, and several premier boutiques, including a Robert Wan Black Pearl Boutique, are all part of the standard services and amenities available. Every night during the turn-down service you can expect a new tin box of delicious, locally made cookies to be left on your bed.

The property is so large that in addition to the golf cart transportation service, there are also numerous bikes available to ride on the property. Speaking of transportation, if you want to visit the main island of Bora Bora, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort offers two complimentary round-trip boat rides per day. In addition, if you make dinner reservations on the main island there is also a complimentary boat that will take you to the drop-off area for the restaurant shuttles; the boat brings you back to the resort from the main island at a scheduled time as well.

If you require access to the internet, the resort has three complimentary PC’s within the library. If you want the ability to use the internet in the comfort of your own villa or suite, an in-room connection is available, but there is a daily rate.

Many of the staff members at The St. Regis Bora Bora learn the guests’ names, habits, and preferences, making for a personalized experience for every guest. The concierge staff we worked with started planning adventures for us prior to our arrival, which allowed our special time at the resort to be focused on enjoying the activities instead of planning them.

Nightly rates at The St. Regis Bora Bora start at about $1,000/night and range up to $17,000/night for the Royal Estate.

The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
Motu Ome’e BP 506
Bora Bora, 98730

Discover the whole trip to Bora Bora here: http://luxgetaway.com/tag/lux-destination-bora-bora/

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