Lately we've been fantasizing about running away to a five-star resort for a night or two. We can't stop thinking about the luxurious service, indulgent food, and sweet little somethings they leave on your pillow! But wallet-wise this isn't a realistic escape for most of us at this time. So, we're sharing some habits of our favorite hotels that can be borrowed to make your home feel like a haven.
The Resort At Pelican Hill - An enchanting oasis with sweeping views of the Pacific in Newport Coast, California, Pelican Hill envelops you in flawless service from the moment you pull up. Among the most memorable offerings is the irresistible setting they create for the bath… a wooden tray is placed across the tub filled with “caviar” bath beads (body-silkening oil), a few seashells and a delightful picture about them, even a place to rest a glass of champagne! After succumbing to pure relaxation, we immediately rushed out to buy these goodies so we could recreate the experience at home.
Montage Beverly Hills - Walking distance to the glamfest of Rodeo Drive, this urban oasis outdoes itself at every turn. Complimentary foot massages, boudoir pillows monogrammed with the initial of your last name, custom cookies bearing your child's name and other personal touches make it hard to imagine a higher level of luxury. The hotel's 20,000-square-foot spa is a highlight where we found one of our favorite take-home beauty tricks. Roll up a clean washcloth and soak it in a bowl of ice, water, and fresh sliced cucumber. Once chilled, it is the ideal pick-me-up for stressed out skin. Apply it to your face, sit back for a few minutes, and feel a gorgeous glow coming on! (photo by Karyn Millet)
The Four Seasons – This remarkable chain of hotels knows how to spoil guests. From the incredible fresh flowers that adorn the lobby, to the black napkins they hand out to dinner guests wearing dark clothing (no white lint!), no detail is overlooked. Our favorite place to hang out is by the pool, where the attendants have every request covered – from refreshing spray of Evian water while basking in the sun, and samples of smoothies to cool off, to big bowls of fresh apples to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re sitting in your porch, lounging on the patio, or taking a dip in your own backyard, adding a few of these treats can add some magic to the setting.
Las Ventanas – Tucked along the crystal coast of Cabo San Lucas, a visit to this Mexican resort will leave you breathless… a premium tequila tasting upon arrival, slippers customized to your shoe size (since they’re usually three sizes too big), even needle and thread to match your wardrobe. After an unforgettable afternoon by their infinity pool, finding a wrapped gift nestled on your pillow along with an inspirational quote is the perfect ending to a perfect day. They take the chocolate-on-the-pillow to a whole new level and so can you. Treat your family or guests to anything from a flower to a seashell, lotion sample, or mini soap. Wrap in tissue paper with twine or raffia and attach a personalized message.
The Peninsula – Delectable food is an essential part of the resort experience and The Peninsula provides guests with a chance to enjoy gourmet goodies at every turn -- bowls of apples adorn countertops and there are always tasty munchies waiting at the spa. Why not treat your teenagers to a basket of healthy snacks in their room so they can nosh while studying? Protein bars, nuts, and fresh fruits are a good bet. And the whole family will get a kick out of a five-star breakfast bar – fill large bowls with granola and cereals, along with toppings (berries, raisins, dried apricots, sliced bananas, wheat germ, chopped walnuts, and more), pitchers of cold milk and juice, and a basket of toast or muffins.
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