(credit: courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton New York Central Park)

Situated on the corner of 59th St and 6th Ave just across the street from Central Park, The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park offers a yearly suite package not to be missed. Its location along the parade route of the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade makes it an idyllic location to wrap guests in the magic of the parade. 

The hotel offers a $25,000-per-night Thanksgiving Specialty Suite package that includes unparalleled parade views from your room and brunch for up to eight guests in the Artists’ Gate Suite. Located on the 3rd floor, the suite offers exceptional views of Central Park and Sixth Avenue from its 13 large windows, providing a perfect viewpoint to the parade below. Designed for entertaining, the suite features two separate living rooms, a guest bathroom, billiards room and a dining room which seats eight. 

(credit: courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton New York Central Park)

Along with an overnight stay for you and four guests in the Artists’ Gate Suite, this package includes other perks such as a $250 room credit, gourmet treats, luxury airport transfers and more. Due to the popularity of the three-hour parade in Manhattan and the hotel’s perfect vantage point to see the giant balloons, fabulous floats and great entertainers, the package is so popular that it sells out a year in advance! So if you and your friends and family are looking to celebrate Thanksgiving in true splendor, make sure to call the hotel to reserve for next year.

The property also offers a Thanksgiving Package for stays in rooms or suites with exceptional parade views, or regular non-parade view rooms, early reservations and special amenities designed to create lasting memories for families and loved ones. Rates vary but start at $3,000 per night for non-parade view rooms, with parade-view rooms also booking out a year in advance. 

Guests who stay at the hotel will also have access to on-property restaurant Contour, numerous wellness experiences – including the first stateside La Prairie Spa and innovative Movement Studio – and an unrivaled starting point for an incomparable luxury retreat in the city. 

Have you ever stayed in a hotel or resort before and can’t believe it actually exists, let alone you are setting foot in such a magical place? That was the experience I had while visiting Fairmont Banff Springs; a castle-like historic hotel that makes fairytale dreams come true.

Banff National Park, adjacent to the property, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984, and when you visit, you understand why. The soaring craggy mountains, glacially-fed bright blue rivers and lakes, thick forests and picturesque meadows are all jaw-droppingly beautiful. Amidst the natural splendor, the Fairmont Banff Springs prominently reaches for the pristine blue skies, a bastion of architecture, historic significance, luxury accommodations and fine dining.

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

A great way to orient yourself to the property is to take a history tour. Our guide, Ewen, was from Scotland and gave great insights to the property’s history, which itself is speckled with Scottish thistle motifs, European-inspired design and over 130 years of remarkable history. The tour helps to add the layers of appreciation to the space, from the fossil-speckled Tyndall stone flooring, to the explanation of the hotel’s footprint being 180 degrees off from the architect’s original orientation. Stories of original guests staying for a 3-4 month season and having their bank accounts verified at check in, to a hidden lounge behind a bookshelf in the Rundle Bar. A fascinating peek into the property’s past, the well-timed tour is a great orientation.

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

The Fairmont Gold Experience is a hotel-within-a-hotel luxury offering for guests, which I highly recommend. A private check-in desk as well as lounge with dedicated concierge staff only accent the beautifully appointed rooms and large lounge space which is home to an impressive breakfast spread, canapes and cocktails throughout the day. A quiet area lounge is backed by a large fireplace; ideal for curling up with a good book and enjoying a comfy afternoon.

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

Vermillion dining room

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

Dining experiences abound at Fairmont Banff Springs, and you should try them all. The Vermillion Room is home to French-inspired cuisine. Sweeping views of the surrounding mountains can be enjoyed from the dining room and bar areas. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch (which I enjoyed thoroughly with an impressive array of fare and perhaps the best profiterole I’ve ever had), Vermillion Room is charming and delightful.

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

1888 Chop House fare

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

1888 Chop House is the award-winning steakhouse on property. Known for their Alberta beef, wild game and oceanwise seafood, no stay at Fairmont Banff Springs is complete without a meal at this storied steakhouse. Details and touches such as the nasturtium butter to go with the 1888 house bread, a delectable bison tenderloin, or a wagyu beef tenderloin with accompaniments such as Quebec blue cheese, lobster tails or foie gras will have you begging to return. Desserts such as the Textures of Chocolate or Forest Berries and Cream are worth saving room for as well.

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

Another aspect to the resort that isn’t to be missed is the 40,000 sf spa. Dip into the mineral pool surrounded by various temperature waterfall whirlpools, or head outside for a hot tub that overlooks the valley beyond while birds sing in the branches above. While there, I tried the 60-minute Signature Rockies Rehydration service; an assortment of dry-brushing skin technique, relaxing massage and top-tier spa product treatments that my only wish was wanting to stay longer.

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

The indoor and outdoor pools are ideally situated to take in the view of the surrounding mountains, with lounge areas available in both. Paramount to this destination is the great outdoors; so whether strolling or biking into town, taking a horseback canter, riding the scenic gondola, or playing a round of golf, there is something for everyone.

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

The hotel may have been opened in 1888 by the Canadian Pacific Highway, but there is no lack of luxury and memorable experiences to be had at this hotel and resort today. Enjoy one of the 739 hotel rooms, the opulent dining opportunities, 27 holes of internationally acclaimed golf, and spacious spa in the Rocky Mountains. For rates and reservations, visit https://www.fairmont.com/banff-springs/

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

Fairmont Gold loung food offerings

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

The Rundle Bar

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

The Rundle Bar fare

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

The Rundle Bar patio

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

Deluxe room

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

The Rundle Bar quiet lounge

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

Crown Suite bathroom

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

Junior Suite

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

Yoga on outdoor patio

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

Walk into town

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

Running on trails in Banff

Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

Enjoy golf in the stunning mountain setting

Whitney Spielfogel

In the heart of Athens, where ancient history blends seamlessly with modern vibrancy, lies the Gatsby Hotel, a stylish retreat that redefines luxury with a bold, retro flair. Inspired by the roaring twenties and the opulence of the Art Deco era, the Gatsby Hotel is a refreshing departure from the traditional, offering a unique fusion of classic glamour and contemporary sophistication. This boutique hotel, which is one of the newer hotels to open in the ancient city, stands out as a beacon of cool and chic, providing guests with an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most historically rich cities.

The Gatsby Hotel enjoys a prime location in the lively neighborhood of Kolonaki, one of Athens’ most fashionable districts. Surrounded by upscale boutiques, art galleries, and trendy cafes, the hotel is perfectly situated for guests looking to explore the cultural and social scene of the city. The hotel is just a short stroll from many historic landmarks as well, including Syntagma Square and the iconic Acropolis, allowing guests to easily immerse themselves in Athens’ rich history and vibrant energy.

Whitney Spielfogel

From the moment you enter the hotel, a former police station, the hotel simply wows! From the floral Instagram-worthy entryway to the flower-filled rooftop garden, the hotel creates a vibrant and immersive atmosphere that enhances the overall guest experience. The Gatsby Hotel is truly a visual masterpiece, with a design that pays homage to the glamour of the 1920s while embracing modern luxury. The Art Deco influence is evident in every corner of the hotel, from the bold geometric patterns and rich color palettes to the elegant use of gold, marble, and velvet. The lobby is a statement of sophistication, with its high ceilings, grand chandeliers, and striking black-and-white floor tiles, creating a space that is both inviting and awe-inspiring.

The hotel’s chic atmosphere extends beyond its public spaces, with each floor offering a unique design theme inspired by different aspects of the Jazz Age. This thoughtful attention to detail creates a cohesive yet dynamic environment, where guests can discover new elements of the hotel’s personality with every step they take.

Whitney Spielfogel

The Gatsby Hotel offers a variety of accommodations, each designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable stay, especially for a city hotel. The rooms and suites are a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern amenities, featuring plush bedding, custom-made furniture, modern technology, and carefully selected art pieces that reflect the hotel’s unique style. Most notable is the Gatsby Party Suite, which is the epitome of indulgence and includes a rooftop hot tub, with sweeping city and sunset views, and outdoor cinema area, sure to make your stay memorable. For those seeking a truly exceptional experience, this suite is perfect for guests who wish to enjoy a little extra luxury during their stay.

The Gatsby Hotel’s dining options are as stylish and refined as the hotel itself. The Gatsby Restaurant serves a menu that combines Mediterranean flavors with international influences, using locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both innovative and authentic. The restaurant’s interior is a nod to the glamour of the 1920s, with sumptuous velvet seating, marble tables, and an elegant color scheme that enhances the dining experience. The hotel’s Rooftop Bar, complete with a fireplace and reserved for guests only, is also a highlight, offering breathtaking views of the Athens skyline and the Acropolis in the distance. Here, guests can enjoy a curated selection of craft cocktails, fine wines, and light bites, all while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city below. The bar’s chic design, combined with the stunning views, makes it the perfect spot for a sunset drink or a nightcap. 

Whitney Spielfogel

The Gatsby Hotel goes above and beyond to cater to the needs of its guests with its 24/7 “stay and play” concierge service on call, offering a range of amenities and services that enhance the overall experience. The hotel also features a fully equipped fitness center, allowing guests to maintain their workout routines while traveling. For those seeking relaxation, the hotel offers in-room spa services, where guests can enjoy a variety of treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Whether you are in Athens for business or leisure, the Gatsby Hotel ensures that every aspect of your stay is entertaining – and totally tailored to your needs.

Whether you are a history buff eager to explore the ancient wonders of Athens or a trendsetter looking for the coolest spots in the city, the Gatsby Hotel provides the perfect base for your adventures. Its impeccable design, comfortable and trendy accommodations, and exceptional service make it a standout choice for anyone looking to experience the best of Athens in style. With its unique blend of retro glamour and modern luxury, the hotel offers an experience that is both sophisticated and super fun.  

Whitney Spielfogel