Three travel locations to check out this fall.

 

Crisp, cool morning walks, apple cider and donuts, hot cocoa on a roof top terrace gives way to Hot Fall fashion, hairstyles, music (and sometimes even a new ‘boo’).  What better time to introduce a few hot spots that I consider wonderful Happy Places!

 

The Chatwal, NYC – I’m totally convinced that New York will forever be one of those cities that constantly re-invent itself.  I stumbled across a brand new property in the Theater District after numerous attempts to full-fill a last minute request during NY Fashion Week.  Formerly architect Standford White’s 44th Street Building, The Chatwal now transformed into an 83 room hotel (including 37 suites, 14 with terraces).

 

 

 

 

Décor inspired from travel-trunk designers such as Louis Vuitton (faux-leather closets with hand-stitched leather handles and matching lift-top desks.).  Some suites offer two full baths, ultra suede covered walls, leather wrapped doorknobs and Kashwere robes.  The second biggest attraction is Geoffrey Zakarian’s restaurant, The Lambs Chop, with a working eighteenth century limestone fireplace.  The mezzanine level bar offers a list of Prohibition-era cocktails served on a 20-foot long stainless steel bar beam.  Your “hit list” should include Spin (to get your Ping-Pong on), Brooklyn Bowl (complete with DJ’s and gleaming lanes) and Painkiller (for a serious cocktail).  With visitors such as former President Bill Clinton, The Chatwal will definitely make some noise.  New York, always in an “Empire State of Mind”.

 

Los Angeles, celebrated as the center of the entertainment universe, now home to The Redbury Hotel, “It’s the Dream Factory in the City of Angels”.  This property is a far cry from the norm aseach room is comprised of a minimum of 750 square feet flats and a close replica of apartments or brownstones that you would find on Fifth Avenue (only with the flavor of California).  Not only is it the perfect location for entertainment, the spacious apartment style rooms gives way to an intimate dinner for two or cocktails, and conversations with the girls.

 

 

 

The Redbury guest are provided VIP access and reservations at such locales as Katsuya Hollywood, Ciel Spa at SLS, XIV by Michael Mina and my favorite, personalized high-end vintage shopping for fashion and furniture.  LA Live takes dinner, and a movie to a whole new level.  Home to the Congo Room, Grammy Museum, Lucky Strike Lanes, Nokia Theatre, Regal Cinemas and the Staples Center (sounds heavenly to me).  Your evening would not be complete without a visit to The Edison, a sexy lounge in downtown LA (a great place to meet after work for good music and drinks).  “Going, going, back to Cali” – we miss you B.I.G.!

 

Now to my favorite “Happy Place”, Miami, Fl.  On a recent visit I experienced the most amazing site visit at The Villa by Barton G (the former home of the late Gianni Versace).  I’ve been fortunate enough to see and stay at amazing hotel properties, but never before having an experience quite like this.  I know that I had tapped into something extraordinary when I pulled up outside the Iron Gate.  My heart started racing in anticipation of being escorted to “the other side” by the friendly yet serious security guard.  Once the gate is closed (while numerous people line up to take photos) you literally feel like you’ve walk into a piece of heaven (and the hustle and bustle of Ocean Drive immediately disappears).

 

 

After being introduced to my host for the day, I felt an instant connection with him where the normal “tour” felt more like I was visiting a great friend’s home, for the first time.  Being a true admirer of Mr. Versace was evident as well, which opened the door to soak up and learn all that I could.  Each and every detail (and piece of history) was shared with me as we canvassed the immaculate property.  Imagine walking through a courtyard that perfectly mirrored a beautiful home in Italy.

 

 

The Villa is made up of ten suites ranging from 1400 to 1600 square feet.  A real life fantasy truly fit for a Queen or King with King and Double King beds (fit for the biggest NBA/NFL player) with rich and elegant decor, captivating yet tasteful with Versace draperies, Kindle e-readers, patios and balconies.  Guests have access to the 57 foot Thousand Mosaic Pool lined with 24-karat gold (open 365 days a year), rooftop lounge (equipped with a telescope for star gazing) and 24 hour room service by British-Certified Butlers.  Barton G the current owner did a wonderful job of keeping the Villa’s signature opulence (and I am forever grateful).  Through each discovery I was left breathless.  The Villa is definitely a place for discerning clientele who have an appreciation for real art and service, but I would be willing to skip my morning Latte and a few trips to the Mall to visit Heaven on Earth (and a small piece of Italy) time and time again.

 

 

 

During your visit to the Happy Place, be sure to check out the Barton G Restaurant (where food is literally brought to life).  Lebron (James) recently posted on Twitter that it was the best restaurant that he had ever visited.  Club 50 Miami, located fifty stories up and reigns as Icon Brickell’s most exclusive lookout point.  The eclectic interior design (by Kelly Wearstler) creates a sexy, and chic atmosphere as a perfect interlude to a night on the town.  Be sure to visit Miami during the much anticipated NBA Season to see WadeBossJames at work!

 

Until next time…keep dreaming, loving and discovering the world!

 

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