Kids' club ages and hours, nanny models, potty-training rules, adults-only minimum ages and child pricing — the operational details that decide whether a family all-inclusive works, taken from the brands' own sites.
Florida has exactly two resorts where all-inclusive is the rate model, plus a few genuine optional packages with published per-person pricing. Even VISIT FLORIDA's own roundup gets this wrong. Here is what the resorts publish themselves.
Club Med has had no US resort since 2022, Miraval says it is "inclusive, but not all-inclusive," and the real American all-inclusive market is guest ranches. What the properties themselves publish — including who includes alcohol, and why.
Puerto Rico is not an all-inclusive destination the way the Dominican Republic is — but the category exists, it is written into Puerto Rican tax law, and one luxury property sells a genuine all-inclusive plan. What the hotels actually publish.
From Grand Wailea's 2,000-foot river and lava tube slide to the adults-only infinity pools of Wailea and Kapalua, the ten Maui resort pools that are reason enough to book — plus who can get in without a room key.
America's best luxury train journeys, with verified 2026–27 fares from each operator — plus the honest answer to why the US still has no Orient Express.
From the $420 Vietage to the £80,000-a-night L'Observatoire. Every significant luxury train on earth with current fares, which ones have quietly stopped running, which have been renamed, and what a luxury train really costs per night.
New jets run $3.5M to $85M, but the purchase price is the smallest part. Real 2026 prices by category, the pre-owned market, annual operating costs, sales tax, the own-or-charter break-even, and the bonus depreciation change most articles still get wrong.
Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines unveil Aurora and Leihōkū: new lie-flat suites with privacy doors, a Premium Reserve premium economy cabin, chef-led menus and major new lounges in Seattle and Honolulu. Here's what's coming, and when.
A custom Airbus A321neo-LR with 48 flat-bed seats, an executive chef and a physician onboard. What the Four Seasons Private Jet actually costs, how the itineraries work, and who it's really for.
Maui is the easiest Hawaiian island for families, and the best days are the ones that leave the resort. Start with milking goats at Surfing Goat Dairy, then work through our tested list of kid-approved adventures.
America's best luxury train journeys, with verified 2026–27 fares from each operator — plus the honest answer to why the US still has no Orient Express.
From the $420 Vietage to the £80,000-a-night L'Observatoire. Every significant luxury train on earth with current fares, which ones have quietly stopped running, which have been renamed, and what a luxury train really costs per night.
Ecoventura, Silver Origin, Aqua Mare, Quasar's Grace and the Metropolitan Touring fleet compared on guide ratio, suites and what each fare leaves out — plus the $200 park fee, the fixed-itinerary rules and when to go.
Ponant, Silversea, Seabourn, Scenic, Quark and Lindblad compared on ice class, guest count and what is actually included — with real 2026-27 and 2027-28 fares, the IAATO rules that decide your time ashore, and how to save without buying a worse trip.
September is the cheapest and quietest month in Hawaii on every island — December's average rate runs 42.7% higher. State hotel data, NOAA climate normals, whale season, the 2026 storm season and what is closed right now.
Kids' club ages and hours, nanny models, potty-training rules, adults-only minimum ages and child pricing — the operational details that decide whether a family all-inclusive works, taken from the brands' own sites.
Florida has exactly two resorts where all-inclusive is the rate model, plus a few genuine optional packages with published per-person pricing. Even VISIT FLORIDA's own roundup gets this wrong. Here is what the resorts publish themselves.
Club Med has had no US resort since 2022, Miraval says it is "inclusive, but not all-inclusive," and the real American all-inclusive market is guest ranches. What the properties themselves publish — including who includes alcohol, and why.
Puerto Rico is not an all-inclusive destination the way the Dominican Republic is — but the category exists, it is written into Puerto Rican tax law, and one luxury property sells a genuine all-inclusive plan. What the hotels actually publish.
Kids' club ages and hours, nanny models, potty-training rules, adults-only minimum ages and child pricing — the operational details that decide whether a family all-inclusive works, taken from the brands' own sites.
Florida has exactly two resorts where all-inclusive is the rate model, plus a few genuine optional packages with published per-person pricing. Even VISIT FLORIDA's own roundup gets this wrong. Here is what the resorts publish themselves.
Club Med has had no US resort since 2022, Miraval says it is "inclusive, but not all-inclusive," and the real American all-inclusive market is guest ranches. What the properties themselves publish — including who includes alcohol, and why.
Puerto Rico is not an all-inclusive destination the way the Dominican Republic is — but the category exists, it is written into Puerto Rican tax law, and one luxury property sells a genuine all-inclusive plan. What the hotels actually publish.
From Grand Wailea's 2,000-foot river and lava tube slide to the adults-only infinity pools of Wailea and Kapalua, the ten Maui resort pools that are reason enough to book — plus who can get in without a room key.
America's best luxury train journeys, with verified 2026–27 fares from each operator — plus the honest answer to why the US still has no Orient Express.
From the $420 Vietage to the £80,000-a-night L'Observatoire. Every significant luxury train on earth with current fares, which ones have quietly stopped running, which have been renamed, and what a luxury train really costs per night.
New jets run $3.5M to $85M, but the purchase price is the smallest part. Real 2026 prices by category, the pre-owned market, annual operating costs, sales tax, the own-or-charter break-even, and the bonus depreciation change most articles still get wrong.
Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines unveil Aurora and Leihōkū: new lie-flat suites with privacy doors, a Premium Reserve premium economy cabin, chef-led menus and major new lounges in Seattle and Honolulu. Here's what's coming, and when.
A custom Airbus A321neo-LR with 48 flat-bed seats, an executive chef and a physician onboard. What the Four Seasons Private Jet actually costs, how the itineraries work, and who it's really for.
Maui is the easiest Hawaiian island for families, and the best days are the ones that leave the resort. Start with milking goats at Surfing Goat Dairy, then work through our tested list of kid-approved adventures.
America's best luxury train journeys, with verified 2026–27 fares from each operator — plus the honest answer to why the US still has no Orient Express.
From the $420 Vietage to the £80,000-a-night L'Observatoire. Every significant luxury train on earth with current fares, which ones have quietly stopped running, which have been renamed, and what a luxury train really costs per night.
Ecoventura, Silver Origin, Aqua Mare, Quasar's Grace and the Metropolitan Touring fleet compared on guide ratio, suites and what each fare leaves out — plus the $200 park fee, the fixed-itinerary rules and when to go.
Ponant, Silversea, Seabourn, Scenic, Quark and Lindblad compared on ice class, guest count and what is actually included — with real 2026-27 and 2027-28 fares, the IAATO rules that decide your time ashore, and how to save without buying a worse trip.
September is the cheapest and quietest month in Hawaii on every island — December's average rate runs 42.7% higher. State hotel data, NOAA climate normals, whale season, the 2026 storm season and what is closed right now.
Kids' club ages and hours, nanny models, potty-training rules, adults-only minimum ages and child pricing — the operational details that decide whether a family all-inclusive works, taken from the brands' own sites.
Florida has exactly two resorts where all-inclusive is the rate model, plus a few genuine optional packages with published per-person pricing. Even VISIT FLORIDA's own roundup gets this wrong. Here is what the resorts publish themselves.
Club Med has had no US resort since 2022, Miraval says it is "inclusive, but not all-inclusive," and the real American all-inclusive market is guest ranches. What the properties themselves publish — including who includes alcohol, and why.
Puerto Rico is not an all-inclusive destination the way the Dominican Republic is — but the category exists, it is written into Puerto Rican tax law, and one luxury property sells a genuine all-inclusive plan. What the hotels actually publish.
Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts Announce New Customized Private Jet – Image Credit: Four Seasons
In 2015 Four Seasons Hotels & Resort unveiled their luxury air travel fleet geared for the top of the line over the top group excursions. The program was well received by the public and their regular clientele. It allows luxury travelers the unique experience of embarking on exciting adventures all over the world. The flight plan is set by the hotel brand along with complementary activities at each stop along the way. For a set price per person, you and your guest will travel in style for three weeks. That’s right, three full weeks of a private jet shuttling you to exotic locations for new adventures.
So What’s New?
Seeing as how the initial program was enjoyed so much
success, Four seasons has decided to upgrade their offerings. The 5-star
service found in every location is now taking flight in the form of Four
Seasons Customized Private Jet.
There will be more space on the new private jet, and service
will be focused on the customer experience more than glamorous air travel. The
current seating allows for up to 52 passengers but the upgraded jet will reduce
that number to 48. While that may seem like a downgrade, Four Seasons has opted
to reduce the number of seats to improve client comfort. The modern layout will
feature a more interactive design that allows for more in-flight entertainment
and comfort. There will be a stage for live entertainment and workshops as well
as a lounge area where guest are encouraged to mingle.
In addition to the luxury furnishings that you have come to
expect from Four Seasons, the bathrooms have received a notable upgrade as have
the actual seating arrangements. Each seat, custom made by Optimares, offers a
generously sized personal ottoman that converts to a regular seat to encourage
face to face interaction among the guests.
The cuisine has always been of the most celebrated aspects
of the Four Seasons’s experience. Taking your experience airborne not only
enhances the dishes but also adds an element of surprise. An executive chef
accompanies each flight to provide fresh unique dishes for every meal. Along
with the traditional menu, there will be destination inspired meals as you near
every location on your itinerary. If this is your first foray into private aviation, our guide on how to fly private for the first time is a useful primer.
When Can I Book A
Flight?
Although there are many new and exciting changes planned for the Four Seasons custom jet, all of the amenities you have come to love will still be available. The new addition to the fleet will be available for booking in the summer of 2019 for flights that will start in 2021. Seats are expected to cost around $150,000 per person and have a tendency to sell out quickly. Flights are all inclusive so book yours today if you are interested in a true one of a kind luxury experience. Travelers who want a Four Seasons stay on the ground as well can also explore the Four Seasons Rome for a complementary hotel experience.
For more information about Four Season Private Jet Experience visit their website.
The Fleur Room at The Moxy Hotel – Photo Credit: The Fleur Room
For those looking for a trendy hot spot in the heart of New York City, then look no further than The Fleur Room. This rooftop bar is located on the 35th floor of Chelsea’s The Moxy Hotel and draws crowds from the Hollywood elite and world-famous runway models to the top names in the political and financial world. Created by Bianchi and the TAO Group to meet the needs of those looking for exclusive entertainment and innovative night time adventures, The Fleur Room is just where you want to be.
The bar is surrounded by glass
windows that offer visitors an unobstructed view of the Flower District and
other New York City sights, while the interior is tastefully decorated with
vintage glass chandeliers, romantic floral arrangements, and even a giant disco
ball from the original Club Vertigo in LA. Planning your stay? Browse our roundup of luxury hotels with Central Park views.
When patrons arrive at the start of the evening they can enjoy the casual area that features a full traditional style bar with a wide selection of seating arrangements for any size party. There is also a larger room that transitions to the dance area as the night wears on. Every evening offers a curated schedule of entertainment that is bound to be unique which is what draws the A-List elites night after night. If you are looking for something exciting and intimate at the same time, then The Fleur Room is just the place to be. For nearby luxury accommodations, see The Fifth Avenue Hotel or the Four Seasons New York Downtown.
For more information visit The Fleur Room website.
The Gwen Hotel, The Gwen Lux Terrace – Photo Credit: The Gwen Hotel
Camping is a great way to get fresh air and enjoy time away from the hustle and bustle of the city but not everyone is in love with the idea of roughing it out in the wild. While glamorous camping isn’t a new idea, Glamping in the city proper is a new spin on the wilderness luxury camping experience.
The Gwen Hotel located in the heart of Chicago is bringing the great outdoors to city dwellers with their luxurious Boho styled Glamping setup. The luxury camping site is located on the 16th-floor terrace of their Michigan Avenue location and offers an exclusive outdoor experience for those looking for adventure. This urban style camping experience will allow visitors to enjoy a spacious 1,000 square feet of outdoor space that includes picturesque views of the surrounding architecture that is well known in Chicago.
The Gwen Lux terrace will be open during summer months and remain available for booking through the end of September. You will be able to relax under the stars in style in the domed shaped tent that features a fluffy queen-sized bed made of black pearl, custom linens and gilded lanterns that present an ethereal glow.
Outside of the tent, there is a
large gas powered fire pit surrounded by a plush seating area where you and
your entire party can roast smores’, hot dogs, or just stare at the stars over
a cup of hot chocolate. For a truly elegant spin, the hotel offers a
four-course meal that is handcrafted by the head chef, Matt Jergens. The fare
varies according to the season, but every meal is made up of a selection of
gourmet offerings such as grilled snapper, naan topped with caviar, and
imported chocolate desserts.
The terrace campsite is connected to
the Gwen Lux presidential suite which can host 6 people with ease and is a part
of the unique package. The penthouse has two bedrooms, a living room, a
kitchen, and a well-appointed dining room. Costs of the experience can range
from $4,000 to $6,000 nightly depending on the season and includes a personal
butler, transportation to and from the airport, and a gold leaf garnished
campfire spread.
The hotel is connected to the shopping areas located at North Bridge, and thanks to the recent renovations, it’s on par with most top branded hotels in the area. This makes the hotel a perfect getaway without having to travel outside of the city. The vibrant summers of Chicago can be enjoyed from the comfort of your tent while still enjoying the over the top luxury of a full-service hotel making The Gwen a truly unique urban experience.
For more information about Gwen Lux terrace visit The Gwen Hotel website.
The Gwen Hotel 521 North Rush Street Chicago, IL, 60611
British Airways New Business Class – Photo Credit: British Airways
Business class on British Airways has received a mind-blowing upgrade that will make your work-related trip seem like a miniature vacation. The new Club Suites are available on the Airbus A350-1000 fleet of British Airways and set to be available on all long haul flights within the next 5 years.
The business cabin on each flight will have 56 suites arranged in a 1-2-1 formation, which is a marked departure from the traditional layout, which is an effort to maximize the available space while also increasing passenger comfort. The airline is dedicated to improving not only its image but also the flight experience for its customers with an impressive investment of a little over $8.5 billion dollars. When it comes to corporate travel, most passengers will choose a non-stop flight to reduce their travel time and maximize their sleep, and this holds true for flights inside and outside of the country, making the new Club Suite Cabin the perfect upgrade for corporate flyers.
New British Airways Club Suites
If you are wondering what these upgrades will mean for you as a business traveler, you have come to the right place. The British Airways Club Suite will make even those sitting in first-class wish for a downgrade. Every passenger will have access to the aisle so you don’t have to disturb your seatmate if you want to stretch your legs or make a pit stop. Storage space for carry-on items has been expanded by 40%, with spaces at eye level to store your phone, books, laptop and anything else you decide to bring along. The entertainment package that comes with the upgraded business class Club Suite allows for gate-to-gate entertainment that includes, USB ports, power outlets, wireless internet and an 18 ½ inch HD video screen to watch the latest in-flight movies and videos.
Fly In Total Comfort
Business class seats always offer more space for passengers to stretch their legs, but with the new Club Suites, you will get a generous 6.6 feet of bed space when the chair is fully reclined. Aside from these spacious accommodations, the cabin altitude will be lower than most flight which will go a long way towards reducing the effects of jet lag. There is nothing worse than disembarking looking rumpled or unkempt, instead of having to wait in line for the bathroom, each suite is equipped with a vanity and a mirror to ensure that you look your best when you hit the tarmac.
Keeping Your Privacy In Mind
It’s easy to overhear conversations on an airplane, after all, it’s a small cabin with nowhere to hide. Along with a privacy door, the walls of the entire business class is coated with walls made of dark fabric that is made to dampen internal and external sound. Not only will this help keep your communications private, but it will also help light sleepers by reducing overall cabin noise.
All in all, the British Airways Club Suites look to be a game changer in the world of business travel and may even replace first class. To complete the experience, pair this onboard upgrade with a visit to the refreshed BA Seattle Lounge, part of BA’s global lounge refresh program. For more on premium-cabin transportation news, see our full archive.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Travel Credit Card by American Express
Marriott and American Express have joined to create a new travel-based loyalty brand credit card aptly named Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant (TM). The new card and upgraded program is a combination of Ritz Rewards, Marriott Rewards, and Starwood Preferred Guest Rewards. The travel card went live mid-February and is set not only cement the August merger between Starwood & Marriott but will be used to bring the accumulated points of all three brands under one robust travel card.
There is a yearly fee of $450, and every dollar you spend on Marriott Bonvoy brands will net you 6 loyalty points, 3 loyalty points for U.S. restaurants and on flights booked with airlines, and 2 loyalty points for all other purchases. For a limited time, all members who spend $5,000 within 3 months of their account opening will get a bonus 100,000 loyalty points credited to their account. The bonus is also available for existing accounts that were reopened after the transition.
The luxury travel features of the card include a $300 Marriott Bonvoy statement credit, one free night annually at Bonvoy hotels, complimentary gold elite status at Marriott Boyvoy hotels, complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, Credit for Global Entry or TSA Pre ✓® and more.
With the card there are no transaction fees when you use your card overseas and you are also able to obtain priority pass membership during your travels. There are also upgrades to the design of the card that is intended to showcase the brand’s sophistication and inspire the desire to travel.
Now has never been a better time to travel and with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card from American Express, not only will you earn points for exploring the world, you can save money in the process.
To learn more about the card or to apply visit the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant website.
The St. Regis Toronto, Canada – Photo Credit: Marriott
You can live the lifestyle of the rich and famous when you visit the exquisite new site of The St. Regis on Bay Street in Toronto, Canada. This luxe hotel chain has decided to make its début in Canada in grand style. Nestled between upscale shops such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom and Hudson’s Bay Company, the 65 storied tall building features 258 rooms that are sheathed in style, luxury, and decadence.
When visitors enter the luxurious lobby, they are greeted with the signature welcome scent that is found in each St. Regis lobby worldwide. The hotel features several upscale dining establishments, including Louix Louis located on the 31st floor, which offers a range of delicacies from various cultures. The St. Regis Canada location is set to usher in a new era of glamour and charm to the city that had been lost in recent years.
The location of The St. Regis Toronto is ideally located in the middle of the financial district making it a perfect choice for business travelers and with Roy Thomson Hall and the Eaton Centre nearby, divine entertainment will always be on hand. Toronto has been listed as one of the top travel destinations for 2019 by National Geographic, so it’s no wonder this iconic brand has found a lucrative market for their posh services. Travelers weighing competing top-tier stays in the city should also consider the 1 Hotel Toronto, while those exploring further afield will find old-world charm at the Ritz-Carlton Montreal.
The hotel is certainly posh, but the experience is what will keep visitors coming back time and again. The secret garden that offers romantic views of Lake Ontario, 24-hour concierge service, weekend tea and evening champagne sabering are just a few of the amenities that draw celebrities such as Elton John to enjoy the delights.
You can even plan your special event to be hosted in one of the 12,000 sq ft of gathering space they have available. Be it a dynamic board room meeting on the 30th floor, or a high sociality ball in the 10th floor Astor Ballroom, whatever your pleasure, The St. Regis of Toronto is sure to fulfill your needs. For broader brand context, see our Aman vs Four Seasons comparison.
Rates start just under $500 per night. For more information about the St. Regis Toronto visit their website.
The Ritz Carlton Vending Machine – Photo Credit: The Ritz Carlton
When you think of hotel vending machines, you probably think of hot coffee, chips or even the rare cold sandwich. These machines are usually next to the ice makers in most hotel hallways and even then, you tend to only find these in mid to lower end hotels that don’t offer room service.
The Ritz Carlton in Naples Florida has made a point to change the game of vending machines forever. The new luxury splurge for those with disposable incomes comes in the form of a 1,000-pounds vending machine rimmed in gold and set to dispense none other than Moët & Chandon champagne.
This Ritz location was closed shortly after Hurricane Irma in 2017 and after massive renovations, management decided to reopen and welcome guest back the luxury hotel in a unique style. As long as you have an ID showing that you are of legal drinking age, you can purchase the special $25 tokens that allow you to purchase 200 ML Imperial Brut and Imperial Rosé vintages chilled to a perfect 30 degrees anytime you like during your stay.
The opulent machine is located from and center in the main lobby which adds to the feeling of luxury excess that comes with an over the top stay at The Ritz. Though these Champagne dispensers have been around since 2013, they were mostly only seen un UK in higher-end department stores during the holidays.
The vending machine was such a novel hit, there are rumors that the famous Kardashian Momager received one as a house warming gift from Chrissy Teigen! It makes sense for this high-end amenity to be found in the playgrounds of the wealthy, and judging by the warm reception it has received, it is most likely you will find them popping up more often.
For more information about The Ritz Carlton Naples visit their website.
Fairmont Grand Del Mar in San Diego – Photo Credit: Fairmont Grand Del Mar
The Fairmont Grand Del Mar is one of the top luxury 5-star hotel and resorts in the United States, located in San Diego, California. The resort has won countless awards and continues to do so year after year, including the AAA Five Diamond Award, 2009-2018 and Forbes Five-Star Awards, 2012-2018. The once independent hotel joined the Fairmont brand in 2015.
The Elegant designs that encompass the entire resort were inspired by Addison Mizner, an architectural legend of the 1920s. As you gaze upon the resort and walk around the grounds, guests are exposed to incredible characteristics of Spanish, Portuguese, Moroccan and Venetian designs.
The beautiful grounds have gained the hotel its popularity over the years, yet it is the extraordinary service keeps customers coming back to stay at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar. The staff is attentive and proactive when it comes to the needs of guests. Even children are treated like royalty, from the toy chest at check-in, to a personalized plate of gummies and cookies waiting in the hotel room. For a Northern California counterpart in the same group, see our review of the Fairmont San Jose.
The resort is ideally located just minutes away from some of the best beaches Southern California has to offer, including La Jolla Cove and Del Mar. The Fairmont Grand Del Mar offers a unique service for beach day. A driver will take guests to the beach of their choice, bring along and set up beach chairs, towels, water bottles, toys for the children and umbrellas, and will then clean all of it up and take it back to the hotel with the guests afterwards.
The resort hosts six dining venues, including Addison, an award winning fine dining French restaurant. Our favorite place to eat at the property was Amaya, offering all-day service and outdoor seating. We highly recommend frequenting Cen’Anni, which offers coffee, tea, pastries, ice cream and other snacks.
There are four heated swimming pools, including an adult-only spa pool, and a children’s pool. The staff accompanies guests in setting up their beach towel, offering bottles of water and sunscreen. They regularly stop by to offer beverages and food.
The hotel features a luxurious spa that is 21,000 square feet and offers many services, from cleansing facial treatments using natural therapies, to herbal reflexology and therapeutic massages. Steam and sauna rooms are also accessible for all guests.
There are many outdoor activities at the resort that guests can participate in. There are pro-style tennis courts and a championship golf course. The Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve stretches 37 miles and is great for bike riding, hiking and horseback riding, with trails starting right next to the hotel grounds.
The Fairmont Grand Del Mar has 249 guest rooms. There are 31 luxury suites that include one-bedroom suites, and two-bedroom presidential suites that can be expanded to three-bedrooms. These suites range from 1,010 to 2,840 square feet, some of which include private balconies. The sophisticated and classic spaces include detailed crown moldings, hand-stenciled ceilings, and gilded gold and wrought iron accents. Each room includes feather down pillows and a luxurious bathroom with dual sinks and a European-style bathtub. One of our favorite features is that every room includes a Nespresso coffee machine.
The Fairmont Grand Del Mar has an inviting atmosphere offering many different activities that guests can enjoy during their San Diego vacation without ever having to leave the grounds. The hotel caters to each of its guests and truly makes them feel as though they are living a life of luxury. Travelers weighing high-end brands may also enjoy our Aman vs Four Seasons comparison.
The night rates at Fairmont Grand Del Mar start under $500 per night.
LUX Tip: Keep your calendar outside the resort light. Once you arrive at Fairmont Grand Del Mar you won’t want to leave, as there are endless activities to keep you entertained or relaxed depending on your preference.
Tequila Company, Patrón Secret Invitation Only Hotel – Photo Credit: Patrón
The tequila company, Patrón offers a secret 20-room hotel at the company’s headquarters in Jalisco, Mexico. We’ve heard of exclusive resorts, and private suites, but Patrón brings it to a whole new level with their property.
The hotel, La Casona does not have a website. The general public cannot visit the resort. Patrón invites its own guests to the resort.
As you would expect the bar at La Casona is impressive. It has three glass-blown chandeliers and high ceilings. All 18 of the brand’s tequilas are available.
Some of the rooms at La Cosona have custom-made beds that are five inches longer than standard king-size beds. Additionally four master suites have hot tubs and terraces looking over a garden.
Because the property is invite only there aren’t available rates or availability for the resort. So who gets an invite to the property? It’s rumored that Instagram and YouTube stars, as well as other VIPs are the lucky ones to get an invite to the property.
WIllows Lodge Woodinville, WA – Photo Credit: Willows Lodge
Tucked away in the heart of wine country, Woodinville’sWillows Lodge offers a luxurious stay full of relaxation and self-care, complete with a glass of wine upon arrival. This 84-room resort boasts a large presence as soon as you enter the well-kept grounds, with its rustic yet elegant decor that creates a sense of romance and charm. Willows Lodge is home to the iconic farm-to-table restaurant, The Herbfarm, as well as the highly-regarded Barking Frog, which offers Pacific Northwest cuisine. Guests are welcome to enjoy hand-crafted cocktails at the Fireside Lounge, as well as live music Tuesday – Saturday.
Inside Willows Lodge Hotel Rooms
The luxurious resort offers 3 different types of guest rooms; nice, nicer and nicest. The nice room has an entrance view, while the nicer and nicest rooms offer views overlooking the courtyard or garden. The Northwest-style space includes an oversized jetted soaking tub, Mexican marble sinks, and a stone-trimmed gas fireplace. Each guest room also includes a voice-activated personal assistant, Roxy. Roxy can assist with sending requests to the front desk, playing your favorite music or acting as your alarm clock in the morning.
Since most people have different preferences when it comes to sleeping comfortably, Willows Lodge has a custom pillow menu for guests to fill out upon arrival.
Evening turn-down service is complimentary, inclusive of a delicious chocolate treat.
Willows Lodge Hotel Amenities
Willows Lodge offers complimentary bicycles and helmets for guests. There is also a shuttle van to nearby locations pending availability. These both come in handy with the location of the lodge being near wineries, breweries, distilleries, and the Burke-Gillman trail.
There are specific parking spots designated to Tesla and other electric cars. Four Tesla charging stations are available along with two ChargePoint EV stations for all other models.
An outdoor relaxation pool is available to all guests between 7:00 AM and 1:00 AM. The fitness room is next door to the pool in the main building, and is open 24-hours. The gym offers equipment like 2 elliptical machines, 1 treadmill, free weights, and more. Personal training sessions are available and can be scheduled with guest services.
Willows Lodge Full Service Spa
With a sizable local following, you know the spa is worth taking advantage of during your stay. There are five treatment rooms, including two treatment rooms for couples, an outdoor cabana for two with a private garden (permitting weather), and a new relaxation room that guests can enjoy in their soft robes and comfortable slippers. Flavored water and snacks are a great bonus, too!
Only the most knowledgeable aestheticians and spa therapists are used to provide spa services and many have been with the Willows since it opened in 2000.
The spa offers facial treatments, facial enhancements, massage treatments, body treatments, and intraceuticals (oxygen facials). Each treatment uses locally harvested ingredients such as local honey, salt and lavender. Personal favorites include the massage because it is tailored to your personal needs and is 60 minutes (or more) of true relaxation, the signature facial, and the body polish, which leaves your skin silky smooth.
Woodinville Nearby Restaurants
Willows Lodge is home to two revered restaurants; the Herbfarm and Barking Frog.
The Herbfarm offers a nine-course dining experience, which incorporates seasonal foods and is paired with different local wines. The menu is finalized before opening each day.
Barking Frog offers a four-course tasting menu or items a la carte. With a newly remodeled kitchen, guests can enjoy watching their food being prepared as they anxiously await their meals. Executive Chef, Bobby Moore, uses local ingredients from Woodinville and Washington state to create fresh and seasonal dishes. Current menu items include; farmers kale salad, seared hudson valley foie gras, butter poached halibut, and beef ribeye. The warm atmosphere of the restaurant makes it desirable to stay after you’ve finished your main courses for dessert and coffee. The vanilla beam crème brûlée and chocolate peanut butter parfait are two delicious menu items that should not be passed up!
Activities in Woodinville
Aside from the many activities available to do at Willows Lodge, there are local wineries, breweries, distilleries and more so close by that they are accessible by foot, shuttle or bike.
Woodinville has over 100 wineries and tasting rooms, nine local distilleries, and five breweries. Willows Lodge can drop-off and pick-up guests in their shuttle van, pending availability. A delightful afternoon could include being whisked away by the shuttle to Januik winery for some wine tasting, a simple stroll to Woodinville Whiskey Company after that, and then walking to enjoy wine and flatbread at Columbia winery, all before arriving back at Willows Lodge.
There are four different golf courses nearby; Willows Run in Redmond, The Golf Club at Echo Falls, The Golf Club at Redmond Ridge, and The Golf Club at Newcastle. The concierge can assist with figuring out tee times and other necessary reservations.
The Burke-Gilman trail runs next to Willows Lodge and goes all the way to Seattle. the 26-mile trail is used for walking, running or biking. The scenery makes for a beautiful outdoor activity whether it’s in the morning or afternoon. Don’t forget that Willows offers complimentary bikes for guests.
Teatro Zinzanni is set to be joining the area in November, at the old Redhook brewery location in Woodinville. This form of entertainment includes cirque, comedy, and cabaret in a live experience.
Pro Tip: Bring your pets! Willows Lodge is pet-friendly and offers amenities like a doggie room service menu, a doggie bed with turn down service including a night-time doggie biscuit, and a map with directions for walks. There is a $50 pet fee charge.
Nightly rates at the lodge start at $300.
Willows Lodge
14580 NE 145th Street
Woodinville, WA 98072 willowslodge.com