Andaz Maui Ilikai Villas Review

Andaz Maui Ilikai Villas Review - Updated March of 2024

We just returned from a second stay at the Andaz Maui Ilikai Villas and this time we stayed in the beautiful Penthouse Villa with glass bottom plunge pool.

The villas are just as great as we remember, if not better and make the perfect accommodation for groups of friends, multi-generational families and more. And with a 5th night free when you book with Live Luxe Travel Co., there is no better time for a stay at Andaz Maui!

Our Verdict

Andaz Maui Ilikai Villas Review

Aloha! Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort is located in, you guessed it, Wailea, with direct access to Mokapu Beach. Andaz Maui is located just down the street from the famous Grand Wailea on Wailea Alanui Drive. Andaz Maui isn’t your typical Hawaiian resort. This resort offers 300 guest rooms including 29 villas and 35 suites, but it still has a very boutique and upscale feel.

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort offers plush accommodations, sweeping views of the ocean, a fantastic spa, boutique shops and award-winning dining options including Morimoto Maui (Iron Chef Morimoto).

Welcome to your home away from home at the beautiful Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort. In the beginning of May, 2021 Andaz Maui at Wailea finished 19 new Ilikai Villas. “Ilikai,” like the Hawaiian word for Horizon, aptly names this new luxury villa offering.

These new villas are all three bedroom with several different bedroom configurations including:

2 Kings 1 Bunk Bed Garden View

2 Kings 1 Trundle Bed Partial Ocean View

2 Kings 1 Bunk Bed Partial Ocean View

2 Kings 1 Trundle Bed Ocean View

2 Kings 1 Bunk Bed Ocean View

2 Kings 2 Queen Beds Ocean View Penthouse

The new villas are located near the front drive of the resort and just a short walk to the adults-only pool or down to the beach. While some might argue that the new Ilikai Villas aren’t true villas since they aren’t free-standing and are all located in the same building, they are incredible and offer plenty of privacy.

Our stay in the new Ilikai Villas was our second stay at Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort . Read our entire review from our stay in February of 2021 when we stayed in one of the Ocean Suites.

This review is based on our personal stay in May of 2021. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay in one of the new Ilikai Villas at Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, book through Live Luxe Travel Co. to take advantage of exclusive Hyatt Privé benefits like the 6th night free, $100 USD resort credit (once per stay), $150 USD daily resort credit (based on number of bedrooms), complimentary valet parking, daily breakfast for two guests per bedroom, a stand-up paddle board lesson for up to 8 registered villa guests and a welcome amenity.

Our Villa

Our villa was the 2 Kings 1 Trundle Bed Partial Ocean View category located on the ground-level with a plunge pool. While this villa is categorized as a partial ocean view, it really should be considered an ocean view as it offers a pretty unobstructed view of the ocean.

This trip was a friend's trip and having the 3 bedroom villa made for the perfect accommodation to offer privacy and a common space where we could all gather. The main king bedroom is right off the outdoor patio which overlooks the plunge pool and ocean.

The second king bedroom was near the entrance to our villa and since we were on the ground floor, it offered a private outdoor courtyard with not much of a view.

The main bedroom and second bedroom are very similar as they both have a walk-in closet, a tv in the bedroom, a beautiful bathroom with dual vanities, walk-in shower and deep soaking tub.

And the third bedroom was toward the middle of the villa. This third bedroom is supposed to have a trundle bed, but due to COVID-19 and furniture being backordered, the bedroom is currently set up with a queen bed.

The third bedroom does have a closet although it’s not as spacious as the other two bedrooms and the third bedroom doesn’t offer an ensuite since the bathroom for this bedroom is located across the hall.

The new Ilikai Villas are just over 1,900 square feet of indoor living space plus the outdoor patio or balcony depending on the category. All of the new Ilikai Villas feature a gourmet chefs kitchen equipped with Bosch built-in refrigerator/freezer, 5 burner gas cooktop, wall oven and microwave combo, built-in coffee machine and built-in dishwasher.

Even though you’re likely staying at Andaz Maui for vacation, it’s nice having the villas to be able to keep snacks, beverages and to be able to cook some.

The outdoor lanai and plunge pool in our villa was the perfect place to escape the rest of the resort if we didn’t feel like leaving the villa. The plunge pool can comfortably accommodate 6 people with extra space. And to our surprise, the pool was heated to the perfect temperature.

The lanai also has a small bistro-style dining table for 4, a small loveseat, 2 lounge chairs, a beverage fridge and drop-in Viking Gas Grill which makes for the perfect place to entertain.

The new Ilikai Villas are equipped with smart switches throughout that control the lights and the roller shades. Some minor details such as motorized roller shades in all of the bedrooms, some additional furniture and a few miscellaneous items are still being completed during guests' stays.

Andaz Maui at Wailea features Mālie toiletries in the koke’e scent which combines organic aloe, coconut and ginger.

Maybe a villa is too big for your stay at Andaz Maui? Read our review of an Ocean View Suite from February of 2021.

Amenities

When you think of a beach vacation, it probably means something different to you than it does to someone else. If you want to swim, Andaz Maui has three tiered pools, a shallow pool walk-in pool (where kids and families usually spend time), and an adults-only pool.

If you’re looking for a place to get your zen on then look no further than ‘awili spa and salon. Awili spa offers separate men’s and women’s facilities with a jacuzzi, steam room and sauna.

If you like to live a life in balance and workout during vacation, the fitness center at Andaz Maui has plenty of cardio equipment including 3 treadmills, 3 ellipticals, 3 Peloton bikes, plenty of free weights and strength training machines. The safety and cleanliness protocols taking place all over the resort and especially at the gym were very thorough. During one of our workouts an attendant came in to spray gym equipment with electrostatic disinfectant. Masks are required during the duration of your workout, which if you aren’t comfortable with that there are a lot of places to get a great workout outside.

Andaz also has a surf shack on the beach where you can rent watersports equipment such as snorkel gear, kayaks, paddleboards and more. And if you’re looking for a guided adventure, they can help with that too.

Dining

Perhaps one of the best parts of staying at Andaz Maui is the proximity to some of Maui’s best restaurants including Ka’ana Kitchen, Bumbye Beach Bar and Morimoto’s.

Ka’ana Kitchen is Andaz Maui’s main restaurant that is open for breakfast and dinner. This is where the Hyatt Prive and Globalist breakfast is served. And if you’re lucky enough to have breakfast included, it’s about a $50 value per person, per day. Breakfast at Ka’ana is buffet style and due to COVID-19, it’s an assisted buffet to minimize the number of surfaces that guests touch.

The breakfast buffet features a hot food station with pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, scrambled eggs, an assortment of breakfast meats and a few dishes that change each day. The buffet also has a fruit and charcuterie station and a selection of fresh bakery items including toast, bagels, muffins and more.

One day for lunch we dined at Lahua Lounge. This is the same menu that is served poolside or at Bumbye Beach Bar. Our lunch started off with the poke. Then for our main course we tried the Crispy Chicken Mochiko Bowl and it was so good. If you’re looking for an insider trick add avocado to it. The cocktails including the Wailea Spritz are also excellent.

For dinner we ate at Ka’ana Kitchen and we will be the first to tell you to order the Fried Chicken with Jalapeno cornbread! It’s seriously so good!

During our stay we didn’t dine at Morimoto Maui, but this famed restaurant was started by Iron Chef Massiruh Morimoto who you may have seen on Food Network.

And lastly Andaz Maui has Mokapu Market where guests can grab a snack, a bottle of wine, specialty coffee drinks and gelato for a cool treat. And the market has local island made foods, treats and souvenirs. Mokapu Market is typically open 24/7 during normal times but due to COVID are running some temporary hours.

Service

Talk about being treated like a VIP. The Ilikai Villas at Andaz Maui come with a dedicated VIP concierge team. This team handles any requests you might have before you arrive at the property. Brittain, Ben, Michelle, Kathleen & Makanalani can assist you with things like dining reservations on the island.

During our stay, we went to use the Bosch in-wall coffee maker system and noticed one of the parts was missing to steam the milk. We called the VIP team, and within minutes they were at the door of our villa with the missing part.

How are they handling COVID?

Masks were required throughout the entire Andaz Maui Resort unless you were eating or drinking, were in the pool or were sitting by the pool.

Andaz Maui is adhering to all state and local government regulations. All employees were wearing masks, there were hand sanitizer dispensers all over the resort and the staff was there to give gentle reminders to wear a facial covering.

Overall Impression

Andaz Maui hit a home run when it comes to the addition of the 19 new Ilikai Villas. These new villas offer the perfect accommodations for a family trip, friends getaway, corporate retreat. The new Ilikai Villas are in buildings that are 5 villas across by 4 villas high. The villas can be connecting up to 5 across making for 15 bedroom accommodations. 

Extra Perks

And to make your stay in the new Ilikai Villas at Andaz Maui even more special, you’ll receive some extra perks for booking through a Hyatt Privé travel advisor like Live Luxe Travel Co. Andaz Maui is currently running a promotion for the 6th night free, which is a great value for those visiting Maui for almost a week. In addition to the free night the Ilikai Villas come with a daily resort credit based on the number of bedrooms. Since the Ilikai Villas are all three bedrooms they come with a daily $150 USD resort credit in addition to the $100 USD Hyatt Privé credit (once per stay). You’ll also receive daily breakfast for 2 guests per bedroom, complimentary valet parking for 1 vehicle, a private stand up paddle board lesson for up to 8 registered villa guests and a welcome amenity. 

Waldorf Astoria Cancun Review

Our Verdict

Waldorf Astoria Cancun

Waldorf Astoria Cancun is a luxurious beachfront resort located in Cancun, Mexico about 25 minutes outside of the tourist zone. The resort is situated on a stretch of pristine white sand beach overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. The hotel features an elegant and modern design that seamlessly blends Mexican culture and contemporary luxury.

Waldorf Astoria Cancun sits near Bahia Petempich Beach which is located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, near the town of Puerto Morelos. The beach is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sand, and lush tropical vegetation.

Bahia Petempich Beach is a quieter and less crowded option compared to other beaches in the area, making it ideal for those seeking a more peaceful and secluded beach experience. Its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Yucatan Peninsula.

It was a short drive only about 15 minutes from the Cancun International (CUN) airport to the turn off the highway into the resort complex where Waldorf Astoria Cancun is located. And then it was about a 5-6 minute drive all the way to the back of the complex to arrive at Waldorf.

The front drive of this resort is gorgeous with a large water feature and reflecting pond in the center of the front drive and these massive wooden doors that take you into the lobby.

And as soon as you go through the massive doors, be prepared to be wowed as you are greeted by this grand lobby including the signature Waldorf Astoria clock right in front of you. Welcome to the Jewel of Cancun.

This review is based on our personal stay in March of 2023. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at Waldorf Astoria Cancun when you book through Live Luxe Travel Co., you’ll receive complimentary benefits such as hotel/resort credits, daily breakfast, room upgrades and more.

For a limited time get the 4th night free plus an additional resort credit of $150 USD for rooms and $300 USD for suites. Must book by June 30, 2023 for stays from January 1, 2023 - December 20, 2023 (blackout dates apply).

Our Room

During our stay we stayed in an Ocean Front Suite with King Bed. All of the rooms and suites at Waldorf Astoria Cancun are very luxurious and offer ocean views, balconies and soaking tubs.

The Ocean Front Suite has extra space at over 1,000 square feet with the convenience of a half bath off the living room. And like a one bedroom suite, there was separation from the living room and bedroom. The living room had a relaxing oversized sofa and table for two. The bedroom also features a sitting area.

Overall the rooms feel very high quality, but with subtle touches of Mexico such as bright colorful artwork to remind you of the destination.

The bathroom in our suite was super luxurious with lots of marble, dual sinks, a space to sit down and do makeup or hair and the glass enclosed shower over looking the balcony.

The shower was very good sized and offered a waterfall rain head from the ceiling along with a handheld. The only complaint was that there didn’t seem to be air conditioning in the shower so it did feel quite hot in there no matter the temperature of the water.

Waldorf Astoria Cancun features Vervan toiletries. These are local products from Mexico that are all natural, cruelty free, biodegradable and more. They were green tea, mint and ginger scented which smelled quite nice and left your skin feeling great.

It’s worth mentioning that all rooms and suites have an ocean view, a hair dyer, iron and ironing board, balcony, Nespresso machine, mini bar and more.

Amenities

Whether you’re looking to spend time at the beach, the pool, the spa or the fitness center, there is something for everyone at Waldorf Astoria Cancun.

During our stay, the red tide was pretty bad, but it wasn’t just at Waldorf Astoria Cancun, it was bad at all of the resorts we visited in the Riviera Maya area.

Waldorf Astoria Spa Cancun is a magical enclave that truly connects you with nature and provides a transformative experience by providing holistic well-being by combining innovation with traditional Mayan culture. Their whole spa is inspired by the connection between the Yaxché or Tree of Life for the Mayan culture.

The spa is absolutely stunning from the facilities in the locker rooms to the outdoor hydrotherapy circuit to the treatment cabins. Your wellness escape awaits.

The pools at Waldorf Astoria Cancun are infinity edge and face the ocean. There is an upper pool closer to the building and the lower pool closer to the beach. Both pools offer a great place to rest, relax and soak up the sun.

During our stay we spent time at the pool. And the staff at the pool is absolutely amazing, The service was very attentive and very quick. It only took about 5 minutes to get drinks and the pool was fairly busy. They do have sun beds that are first-come-first-serve and cabanas for rent.

And if you’re looking for something more adventurous than lounging at the pool, beach or going to the spa, the concierge can arrange tons of activities and experiences.

Waldorf Astoria Spa Cancun is a magical and unique enclave that provides an authentic and transformative experience to our guests, focused on their holistic well-being by combining innovation with the tradition of the Mayan Culture. Timeless and free-spirited, with an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, Waldorf Astoria Spa Cancun reinvents the spa experience, incorporating locally sourced oils and fresh herbs from the garden, with healing crystals and the most innovative products to take you in a magical journey of transformation and enlightenment. Our signature spa experience is inspired by the connection between the Yaxché or Tree of Life for the Mayan culture, with the use of the healing stones and the Mayan cosmovision.

While we didn’t have a treatment at Waldorf Astoria Cancun Spa, we did use the spa facilities including sauna and steam in the locker room and the outdoor hydrotherapy circuit.

Dining

Waldorf Astoria Cancun offers a variety of dining options, including a seafood restaurant, a modern Mexican restaurant, and the pool bar with stunning panoramic views. There are a total of 5 food and beverage outlets on property at Waldorf Astoria Cancun.

Breakfast each day is served at Chaya which is also open for dinner. Breakfast is a super casual and relaxed atmosphere. For breakfast we tried the chilaquiles (these are a must), pancakes, American breakfast and more.

For dinner we dined at Ja’o (modern Mexican cuisine) one night and the tacos and margaritas were excellent. This restaurant has great ambiance and blends the indoor with the outdoors.

And lastly we dined at Chaya for dinner our last night. They were having an Italian theme night, which during a long length of stay or just for something different was a nice change of pace.

Service

Like any new property, it’s hard to open and have top-notch service within the first year. But we were super impressed by the service we encountered at Waldorf Astoria Cancun. Everyone from the bell staff, to front desk, to housekeeping, to waitstaff was all very friendly, helpful and accommodating.

In fact, one night at dinner we asked what other desserts were possible because we didn’t see anything on the menu that looked good. They asked what we had in mind, we told we wanted Tres Leches and they made it happen. Luxury is learning how to not say no.

Overall Impression

Waldorf Astoria Cancun is a hidden gem. This new luxury resort will cater to those wanting a quick weekend escape, to couples, families, honeymooners and anyone else seeing a true luxury five-star experience who doesn’t want to spend nearly an hour in the car going to other Riviera Maya properties.

We would go back to Waldorf Astoria Cancun in a heartbeat. In fact it will become a resort that we frequent.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Waldorf Astoria Cancun with Live Luxe Travel Co., you’ll receive a $100 USD equivalent resort credit (once per stay) to use on dining or spa treatments, daily breakfast for two and a room upgrade (if available at the time of check-in).

For a limited time get the 4th night free plus an additional resort credit of $150 USD for rooms and $300 USD for suites. Must book by June 30, 2023 for stays from January 1, 2023 - December 20, 2023 (blackout dates apply).

Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas Review

Our Verdict

Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas Review

The Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas is a true gem in the Baja California Sur region of Mexico. Upon driving into the Costa Palmas development and driving up the driveway to the resort, we knew we were in for a luxurious and memorable stay.

The resort is located on the stunning East Cape of the Baja Peninsula, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean. The Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas’ location offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding mountains. The resort's architecture is modern and sleek, with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic that blends perfectly with the natural beauty of the area.

The resort is about a 90 minute drive from the Los Cabos International Airport.

As soon as we pulled up to the pick-up and drop-off area, we were greeted by their friendly staff who offered us a refreshing welcome drink and a warm introduction. The check-in process was quick and efficient, and we were soon escorted to our suite.

This review is based on our personal stay in January of 2023. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas, when you book through Live Luxe Travel Co., you’ll receive complimentary Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits such as hotel/resort credits, daily breakfast, room upgrades and more.

Our Room

During our stay at the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas we stayed in one of the Executive Ocean View Suites with Plunge Pools. The suite itself is simply stunning. The suite is an open layout with a combined bedroom and living room.

The spacious living area is elegantly furnished with comfortable seating and beautiful artwork. The large floor-to-ceiling windows offer incredible views of the ocean and flood the room with natural light. There's also a dining area with a small table which is perfect for enjoying meals in the privacy of your own suite which we did take advantage of this our first evening at the resort after a long travel day.

The bedroom is equally impressive, with a king-sized bed that's incredibly comfortable and that plush Four Seasons bedding we’ve come to love that feels like you're sleeping on a cloud. The room also has its own balcony, which is the perfect spot to watch the sunrise over the ocean or you can simply open the blinds and enjoy the sunrise from bed.

The bathroom is a work of art in itself, with marble floors and walls, a deep soaking tub, and a spacious shower. There are also double sinks and plenty of storage space for your toiletries.

And one of the standout features of the executive ocean view suite is the private infinity pool. The pool is situated on the balcony and is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. The pool is heated, so even if the weather isn't quite warm enough, you can still take a dip.

Amenities

Of course, the room/suite is just one aspect of the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas experience. From exquisite dining options to stunning recreational activities, this resort has everything you need to unwind and rejuvenate.

Let's explore some of the amenities that make this resort a must-visit destination.

From an outdoor lap pool to an adult-only sanctuary, the Four Seasons Resort Los cabos at Costa Palmas collection of six pools offers refreshment, relaxation and pampering all day.

And if you’re a beach person, the beach here is an absolute dream with crystal clear turquoise waters and soft sandy shores. Whether you're looking to relax and soak up the sun or take a dip in the refreshing ocean, this is the perfect spot for a beach day.

The resort boasts a world-class spa that promises to rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit.

The spa at the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas is designed to provide guests with a tranquil and relaxing environment. The spa's decor is inspired by the natural beauty of Baja California, with earthy tones and natural materials creating a sense of calm and serenity. The spa's layout is also designed to ensure maximum privacy and seclusion, with private treatment rooms that offer breathtaking views of the ocean.

The spa menu at the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas features a range of treatments that draw on traditional healing practices from around the world. The spa's signature treatments include the Sea of Cortez Ritual, which uses indigenous ingredients to detoxify and nourish the skin, and the Four Seasons Ultimate Massage, which combines Swedish, Thai, and Shiatsu techniques to promote deep relaxation and rejuvenation.

In addition to its signature treatments, the spa at the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas also offers a range of facials, body treatments, and massages. Guests can choose from a variety of massage styles, including deep tissue, hot stone, and aromatherapy, or opt for a custom massage that is tailored to their individual needs and preferences.

One of the standout features of the spa at the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas is its hydrotherapy circuit. The circuit includes a sauna, steam room, cold plunge pool, and hot tub, as well as an experiential shower that provides a range of water sensations. Guests can move through the circuit at their own pace, using each facility to relax and unwind.

And when you need to work up a sweat, get your workout on in style at the fitness center of Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas! With state-of-the-art equipment and stunning views of the Sea of Cortez, you'll feel energized and motivated to reach your fitness goals. The gym was well appointed with a cardio room, weight room and a lap pool.

The Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas offers an array of recreational activities for guests of all ages. From water sports like surfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding to land activities like tennis, hiking, and biking, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The resort offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including a kids' club and a family pool. Parents can also take advantage of the resort's babysitting services and enjoy some alone time while their kids are entertained.

Finally the Four Seasons Los Cabos at Costa Palmas features a private marina that offers a range of activities, including fishing, yachting, and snorkeling. Guests can also take advantage of the marina's boat rentals and explore the Sea of Cortez at their leisure.

Dining

If you're looking for a luxurious and unforgettable dining experience, the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas has a variety of restaurants to satisfy your taste buds. The resort is situated on a beautiful stretch of coastline on the East Cape of the Baja Peninsula, offering breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez. The restaurants at the resort provide the perfect complement to the stunning scenery, serving up delicious cuisine and cocktails in elegant settings.

Estiatorio Milos is a fine-dining Greek restaurant that offers fresh seafood and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The restaurant features an open-air dining room with ocean views, a beautiful bar area, and an outdoor terrace with a fire pit. Estiatorio Milos is a must-visit restaurant for seafood lovers, as it offers a wide selection of fresh, locally-sourced fish.

Casa de Brasa is a casual dining restaurant that offers grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables in a beautiful outdoor setting. The restaurant features a large wood-burning grill, where chefs prepare the dishes using traditional Mexican techniques. The restaurant also has a tequila and mezcal bar, offering a wide selection of premium spirits.

Limon is the resort's all-day dining restaurant, offering a variety of international cuisine. The restaurant features indoor and outdoor seating, with views of the resort's lush gardens and pool. The menu includes a range of dishes, from healthy salads to indulgent pastries and desserts.

El Puesto is a casual Mexican restaurant that offers a range of traditional dishes, including tacos, ceviche, and guacamole. The restaurant features a beautiful outdoor terrace with views of the Sea of Cortez, as well as a bar that serves up a variety of tequilas and mezcals.

Bar Rita is the resort's poolside bar and restaurant, serving up refreshing cocktails and light bites. The bar offers a relaxed atmosphere, with comfortable seating and views of the resort's infinity pool and the Sea of Cortez. The menu includes a variety of snacks, sandwiches, and salads, as well as a selection of frozen cocktails and premium spirits. And the pool nachos, easily some of the best nachos we’ve ever had at a resort!

And one of our favorite meals we had while at the Four Seasons Los Cabos at Costa Palmas was at Mozza Baja. Mozza Baja is located in the Costa Palmas development and is about a 10 minute boat ride from the resort. Mozza brings the relaxed vibe of Los Angeles and a distinct Baja spirit to the East Cape. The multi-dimensional eatery is the perfect blend of Osteria Mozza, Pizza Mozza and chi SPACCA, and an inimitable East Cape flare that focuses on tantalizing seafood, fresh produce, and outstanding provisions of the area.

Overall, the restaurants at the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas offer a wide range of dining experiences, from casual poolside bites to fine-dining seafood. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner with ocean views or a casual lunch with friends, you'll find something to suit your tastes at this stunning resort.

Service

The service at the Four Seasons Los Cabos at Costa Palmas was top notch. Every staff member we interacted with was helpful and friendly and exactly what we would expect when staying at any Four Seasons Hotel or Resort. And of course one of the best things about a stay as the Four Seasons is the ability to use their app to make immediate requests.

Overall Impression

The Four Seasons Los Cabos at Costa Palmas is a world class resort located in East Cape of the Baja Peninsula, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean. The resort is beautiful, the service is excellent and the resort offers a range of amenities to satisfy any and all of your possible needs.

We are already looking forward to planning a return visit to one of our new favorite resorts in Mexico.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costas Palmas with Live Luxe Travel Co., you’ll receive complimentary Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits like a room upgrade, resort credits and more.

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay Review

Our Verdict

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay Review

Updated - 12/20/23

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is a luxurious eco-conscious hotel located on the picturesque island of Kauai in Hawaii. The hotel is committed to sustainability and aims to connect guests with the natural world through its design, amenities, and services.

Up to $500 USD Resort Credit + Virtuoso Benefits

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See Details Below

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Up to $500 USD Resort Credit + Virtuoso Benefits - See Details Below -

Hanalei Bay is a breathtakingly beautiful natural bay located on the north shore of Kauai, one of the Hawaiian Islands. The bay is approximately two miles long and half a mile wide, and is surrounded by verdant mountains and lush tropical vegetation.

The bay's crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing, and the beach is an ideal spot for sunbathing and relaxing. The soft golden sand is ideal for a long walk, and beachgoers can enjoy stunning views of the mountains and the bay.

From the moment you drive up to 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay and step foot ini the sanctuary (lobby), you’re struck by the hotel's commitment to sustainability and the natural world. If you know one thing about 1 Hotels as a brand is they are know for sustainable luxury. The decor was minimalistic yet luxurious, with an emphasis on organic materials and earthy colors.

The resort is built into the hillside which is how they get around the Hawaiian rule of no buildings taller than the tallest coconut tree. While compact, the resort can be challenging to navigate until you get the hang of it. There are two sets of elevators. The first set you access in the Sanctuary which is located on the 9th floor. The gym and access to the adults-only pool are through these elevators in the sanctuary and are on level 8. If you want to go to the beachfront pool, you need to take the main elevators in the sanctuary down to level 5, walk down the hallway and then take another elevator down to level 1. See map below.

This review is based on our personal stay in March of 2023. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, when you book through Live Luxe Travel Co., you’ll receive complimentary benefits such as hotel/resort credits, daily breakfast, room upgrades and more.

For a limited time get an additional resort credit + Virtuoso Benefits. For stays up to 3 nights receive a $100 USD resort credit, for stays 3+ nights get a $400 USD resort credit, for stay of 5+ nights get a $1,00 USD resort credit. Must book by December 31, 2024 for stays from January 1, 2024 - December 31, 2024 (blackout dates apply).

Our Room

During our stay at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay we stayed in one of the One Bedroom Suites. These suites features a separate bedroom and living room. They also have access to the toilet and a sink that is separate from the bedroom and bathroom.

The large picturesque windows offer breathtaking views of Hanalei Bay and offer the perfect place to cozy up and relax.

The bathroom features lost of organic and sustainable materials such as wood, metal and stone. A majority of the bathroom walls are built from lava rock, after all you are in Hawaii.

The showers are large and equipped with rain showerheads, providing a luxurious spa-like experience. The use of natural materials such as stone and wood creates a peaceful and calming environment.

And the best feature of our room was the gorgeous lava rock freestanding soaking tub.

The hotel provides organic bath products that are free from harmful chemicals, ensuring a pure and rejuvenating experience. The towels and bathrobes are made from organic cotton, adding to the eco-conscious philosophy of the hotel.

1 Hotel Hanaleai Bay just like every other 1 Hotel eats, sleeps and breathes sustainability. Sustainability here is not just some marketing buzz-word. Sustainability is at the heart of everything the resort does. You can read more about 1 Hotels commitment to sustainability, here. In fact, you won’t find any single use plastics in any of the guest rooms. You’re given metal water bottles in your room and there is a filtered water tap in every room for drinking water. Our water tap was in the countertop in the living room next to the Nespresso machine.

One of the standout features is that all of the roofs are living so there is no ugly roofs to look at. This is good for the environment as it’s reducing carbon-dioxide and the living roofs help save energy costs. And if you look closely you’ll find a vegetable and herb garden that the chef uses to source ingredients from.

Amenities

The hotel's amenities were also top-notch. I loved spending time at the beachfront pool, which offered stunning views of the bay. The fitness center (powered by Alchemy) was well-equipped (even had several Peloton bikes), and offers a variety of classes, including yoga, while the spa offers a range of treatments designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

If mind and movement is your thing Anatomy fitness studio offers a spectrum of workouts, all informed by wellness practitioners and trainers. Group cycling, high-intensity whole-body workouts, sunrise meditation, breathwork and posture alignment, barre without the bar, kickboxing, Pranic healing, personal training, and beyond.

The resort features two pool areas, the beachfront pool which is for families and the adults-only infinity edge pool and jacuzzi.

During our stay we spent time at both pools and both offered a great place to relax, soak up the sun and spend time with one another. Both pools offer cabanas and pool-side food and beverage service.

There is certainly something for everyone with a full calendar of outdoor experiences, wellness experiences, and opportunities to explore the wondrous nature of Kaua’i. You’ll find everything from cooking to fitness, wildlife, music, arts and more.

And lastly the spa. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay features a Bramford Wellness Spa. Bamford Wellness is a spa devoted to nurturing the mind, body and spirit. Our holistic approach is based around a heartfelt connection with nature.

While we didn’t have a treatment during our stay, but we did visit the spa and used the steam and sauna in the locker room. All of the amenities of the spa including the locker rooms and the relaxation lounge were well equipped and beautifully designed.

Dining

Welcome to a foodie haven. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay features 7 food and beverage outlets so you certainly won’t experience fatigue on eating the same things during your stay.

We enjoyed dinner at 1 Kitchen (the main restaurant serving breakfast and dinner). The dinner we had was made from the freshest and most local ingredients. We ordered a bunch of things to share including the Milk Bread, Hamachi Crudo, New Wave Island Half Chicken (like Hawaiian BBQ chicken), and Brussels Sprouts. All of the dishes were great, the chicken was absolutely incredible. We were also celebrating a birthday, and to our surprise at the end of our meal they brought out a small birthday cake.

For more casual mornings, we enjoyed grabbing coffee, smoothies and small bites from Neighbors. Neighbors is an all-day café, market and communal gathering spot for guests and locals. This made for every leisurely and relaxing mornings after sleeping in and getting our sweat on.

And lastly you must eat at Welina Terrace. It’s known for the best sunset on Kaua’i and the food, ambiance and live entertainment lived up to the hype. The menu is modern Japanese and the sushi was excellent.

The food and beverage offering at the Sandbox down at the beachfront pool is quite good as we enjoyed tacos and margaritas when our pool day got rained out.

Service

While it’s hard to know what to expect service wise from a newly re-imagined luxury resort, we were pleasantly surprised as to how good the service was. Not saying there isn’t room for improvement, but overall the service levels experienced during our stay with housekeeping, waitstaff, bellman and everyone was warm, friendly and helpful.

Overall Impression

It’s worth noting that 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is the only luxury resort on Kaua’i without resort fees or parking fees for guests. In the luxury space is easy to feel like you’re being nickled and dimed for every little thing. This is not the case at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay.

This is easily the nicest most luxurious resort on the whole island of Kauai and rivals some of the competitors on other neighboring islands.

We can’t wait to return to this lifestyle luxury hotel after they have had some time to get everything up and running and all the activations going.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay with Live Luxe Travel Co., you’ll receive a $100 USD equivalent resort credit (once per stay) to use on dining or spa treatments, daily breakfast for two and a room upgrade (if available at the time of check-in).

For a limited time get an additional resort credit + Virtuoso Benefits. For stays of 5+ nights get a $500 USD resort credit. That’s in addition to the the rest of our perks including daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade, if available at check-in and a welcome amenity.

Paradero Todos Santos Review

Our Verdict

Paradero Todos Santos

Paradero Todos Santos is a resort like no other. This sustainable and adventurous resort located in the middle of the desert near Todos Santos is the first resort to launch by the up and coming Paradero brand.

Todos Santos is a sleepy surf town in Baja California Sur, Mexico. The best way to get there is by flying into Los Cabos airport (SJD). To get to Paradero, you’ll go past San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. Todos Santos is about an hour north, a straight shot on Highway 19, which is a very well-maintained highway. There’s plenty to do and see in the neighboring towns of Pescadero and Todos Santos, therefore we recommend renting a car so you have freedom to explore the area. You will need about $5 USD each way for tolls on Highway 19 (and the toll booth is cash only).

When we arrived at Paradero, we were overwhelmed by the design. The entire resort is an Instagram Influencer’s playground ha! But seriously, the resort is gorgeously minimalistic. The hotel is designed by architects Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo, and every detail of this space was intentionally designed in order to mesh with the surrounding scenery. From the earth-toned hues to the brutalist, two-story structures that house all of the hotel’s accommodations, the hotel’s overall aesthetic seamlessly matches the landscape, so much so, that you can barely see the hotel from the road.

This review is based on our personal stay in January of 2023. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at Paradero Todos Santos, when you book through Live Luxe Travel Co., you’ll receive complimentary benefits such as hotel/resort credits, daily breakfast, room upgrades and more.

Our Room

During our stay at Paradero Todos Santos we stayed in one of the Mountain View Sky Suites. These rooftop suites have sweeping views of the surrounding farmland, the mountains, and in the distance, views of the Pacific Ocean. The bedrooms are minimalist and cozy, with air conditioning.

The open-air bathrooms are separate from the bedroom, situated across a small outdoor seating area. And while the bedroom does have air-conditioning, the windows are strategically placed within the suites to promote cross ventilation of fresh air. Translation: You’ll sleep better without any noise and light pollution!

But the best part of these suites are the rooftop, which included a “star net” which is a hammock bolted into the walls, and an entire rooftop lounge area. One evening we enjoyed sunset from the rooftop with a bottle of champagne and a fire pit which the resort graciously brought and set up for us. It made for the perfect evening.

Paradero thrives on sustainability. You’ll find pitchers of water in the room with reusable water bottles, no single use plastics which means won’t find small bottles of shampoo, a mini bar, or coffee machine in your room. In fact, you won’t see excess plastic anywhere on the property. But don’t worry, the resort lobby offers coffee every morning and iced coffee each afternoon.

And while the resort has strong wi-fi, you won’t find any TV’s at Paradero Todos Santos. If you need nightly entertainment, we’d suggest stargazing or relaxing with a great book while enjoying the beautiful scenery!

Amenities

While Paradero Todos Santos is known for their rigorous activity schedule, don’t sweat, if your idea of a vacation is to do nothing more than lounge by the pool, the Paradero’s 130-foot-long infinity pool is the perfect spot to sunbathe and enjoy a good book. And if you need to zen and relax, the Ojo de Agua Spa offers something for everyone. The transformation begins from the moment you arrive at their below-ground spa, a sunken oasis inspired by a secret watering hole in Todos Santos. You can participate in an authentic temazcal, sound healing ceremony or opt for an invigorating massage.

But the core programming at Paradero is centered around their activity calendar which consists of both complimentary and paid options. The activities are centered on the environment, from farming and gardening to hiking and biking. And there’s yoga in the morning and group meditation sessions each afternoon.

Our only warning is that if you’re looking for a full fledged gym and fitness center, you won’t find that at Paradero Todos Santos. Their gym is an open air gym with a few weights and yoga mats. Don’t worry, we still managed to get our sweat on, but if you’re looking for a full fledged workout, it’s probably better to participate in one of the resort’s scheduled fitness classes.

Dining

We spent 10 nights in Cabo San Lucas and Todos Santos and one of the highlights of the trip was the food at Paradero Todos Santos. All of the food we had at Open Kitchen, the only restaurant at Paradero Totos Santos, was truly that good! The food at the Paradero Hotel’s restaurant is adventurous but also sustainable. The menu features local ingredient, many of which are grown or caught at or near the resort. That means the menu features plenty of seafood including hamachi tostadas, softshell crab tacos, among other local specialties like ceviche.

Breakfast features favorites like burritos, avocado toast and chilaquiles. The food was excellent and tip, the tortillas are freshly made every day, so those burritos are quite delicious. They also have a barista serving up locally roasted coffee and freshly squeezed juices.

And the cocktails were just as good as the food. Our favorite was probably the Mezcalita which is essentially a traditional margarita with mezcal instead of tequila. It sounds simple but the smokiness of the mezcal accentuates the tanginess of the drink and it was the perfect combo.

Service

We’d consider the Paradero Todos Santos Resort barefoot luxury. Don’t expect Four Seasons type service, but their entire staff was friendly, accommodating and helpful.

Overall Impression

As we mentioned at the beginning of the review, Paradero Todos Santos is truly a resort like no other. Combining indoor and outdoor living is at the heart of Paradero’s design. The small property will attract travelers who are interested in minimalist, sustainable luxury, as well as those who seek to experience a different side of Mexico.

To be honest, we were a bit apprehensive as this was a very different resort experience than what we were used to. But we loved our stay at Paradero Todos Santos and we will most definitely be back.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Paradero Todos Santos with Live Luxe Travel Co., you’ll receive a $100 USD equivalent resort credit (once per stay) to use on dining or spa treatments, daily breakfast for two and a room upgrade (if available at the time of check-in).

Andaz Prague Review

Our Verdict

Andaz Prague Review

Welcome to the beautiful luxury lifestyle hotel in the heart of the historical centre of Prague, Andaz Prague. This hotel was constructed in the iconic Sugar Palace and the design and construction was inspired from the rich local culture. Whether you're looking to explore all that the city of Prague has to offer or looking for some rest & relaxation, the hotel offers all the luxury and comfort you could ask for.

Just like any other Andaz property, they truly embrace the local arts, culture and food. Andaz Prague brings the neighborhood into the hotel and truly immerses guests to the local surroundings.

Andaz Prague is located in Senovážné Square. This location in the historical centre of Prague offers some of the most beautiful historical sites in Europe within a short walking distance. The hotel is located about 30 minutes by car from Václav Havel Airport Prague.

Andaz Prague is the perfect example of where luxury meets lifestyle in every possible way. Visit Andaz Prague in the heart of the city, close to the Jewish quarter of Josefov and the New Town. Whether in the mood for some culture and history, art and cuisine, dancing and shopping, Prague has it all.

This review is based off of our personal stay in October of 2022. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at the Andaz Prague, book through Hyatt Privé to take advantage of exclusive complimentary extras like a confirmed one category room upgrade (if available, confirmed within 24-48 hours of booking), $100 USD resort credit (once per stay), daily breakfast for 2 and a welcome amenity. And let’s just say, Andaz Prague takes very good care of our clients.

Andaz Prague features an inspiring blend of local heritage with contemporary creativity and precise detailing to ensure a luxurious and comfortable stay with stunning views of the historic architecture surrounding the hotel.

Our Room

During our stay at the stunning Andaz Prague, we stayed in a Wintergarden Suite. Made for pure relaxation, together with airy high ceilings, the open-plan living area, king bed and a dining table for four people these premium suites overlook the Dancing Fountain and Haymarket square.

It's worth noting that all accommodations offer a complimentary minibar with non-alcoholic beverages and local snacks, Nespresso coffee & tea maker with complimentary refills, complimentary Wi-Fi, Complimentary local phone calls, USB connections and multi-use international sockets, large flat-screen Smart TV, local bath toiletries, hair dryer, plush robes, and an in-room safe.

The Wintergarden Suite at 71 sqm offers true luxury and includes a unique winter garden. The perfect place to sit and read a book, catch up on a few emails, enjoy a morning cup of coffee and more.

The large bathroom offers a dual vanity, bathtub, large walk-in shower, enclosed toilet room, and small sitting area. The natural daylight floods the bathroom from the large picturesque windows.

The hotel features local toiletries from a Czech company and the same company that does the spa in the hotel, Klara Rott.

Amenities

Andaz Prague features Klara Rott spa, 24-hour fitness center, ZEM Restaurant, and MEZ Bar.

The Spa by Klara Rott is the creation of the spa and each detail, from founder Klara Rott. Her passion and taste for a unique experience can be felt in each ritual. Functional, organic Klara Rott products are used in all the rituals. First-class therapists will guide you through their unique (signature) or facial rituals and massages so you can enjoy the perfect experience.

There are fully equipped lockers and bathrooms with upscale bath amenities.

Treatments rooms, Finnish sauna and steam bath are located on the 1st underground floor next to the fitness center.

It is open daily from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.

During our stay we went to the spa a few times to use the facilities. You don't have to have a treatment to use the steam room, sauna, relaxation room and experiential showers.

The facilities are located just down the hall from the fitness center. You can use the spa locker rooms as well. We planned to use the facilities after our workout each day which worked great. We were able to shower use the facilities and shower again.

The fitness center is an oasis of tranquility with An Oasis of tranquility, immerse yourself in a great workout with state-of-the-art TechnoGym equipment.

The fitness center is equipped with 2 treadmills, an elliptical, two stationary bikes, a rowing machine, some free weights, a few weight machines, a water faucet (still and sparkling water), and plenty of towels.

Dining

The food and beverage offerings at Andaz Prague are inspired by local Czech cuisine, but with the modern ambience of an Andaz Hotel.

ZEM is an avant-garde Czech bistro, juxtaposing the aesthetics of Prague’s traditional coffee houses with 1920s retro-futuristic Czech art, literature, and engineering.

The menu is a creative blend of Czech produce with occasional hints of Japanese flavors, crafted from a theatrical kitchen stage of charcoal and steam.

ZEM is the hotels main restaurant where breakfast, lunch and dinner are served. If you book through Hyatt Privé this is where the complimentary breakfast can be enjoyed.

During our stay we enjoyed breakfast each morning since it was included in our Hyatt Privé. stay, and it saved us about $30 USD per person each day. ZEM's breakfast is a buffet along with an a-la-carte menu. The buffet has cold cuts, cheeses, granola, breads, pastries, fresh fruit, fresh veggies and more. The breakfast was fantastic and the service was very attentive.

The last morning we decided to do in-room dining and opt for the Wintergarden breakfast. This is a very unique breakfast experience served in the Wintergarden Suite. The food was great and the view from the garden was even better. The sun was shining in through the windows making it for a warm and cozy way to start the day.

Service

Andaz Prague is a luxury lifestyle property, but the service offered is true luxury. From the moment we arrived people were there to look after every detail of our stay. And the staff is so friendly. Czech Republic is primarily an english speaking country.

The concierge team at the hotel is incredible. They helped us with dining reservations at local restaurants, booking haircuts, and curated a few local experiences for us.

One of the most curated experiences that the concierge team set us up with was a private shopping experience with a stylist. Honza, a local Czech resident was our stylist. He took us to several stores in different neighborhoods and helped us shop until we dropped. Guests of Honza's are treated like VIP's as he knows people at independent stores as well as designer brands.

Each day when we returned to our room, it was perfect. The housekeeping was very through as the room was so clean, everything tidied up and things refilled.

Overall Impression

The boutique Andaz Prague is a true luxury property in the heat of one of Europe's most historical cities. To wake up in Andaz is to know where you are in the world.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Andaz Prague with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Hyatt Privé partnership, you’ll receive a $100 USD equivalent resort credit (once per stay, conversion rate is determined by the resort) to use on dining or spa treatments, daily breakfast for two, a confirmed one category room upgrade (if available, confirmed within 24-48 hours of booking) and a welcome amenity.

Magma Resort Santorini Review

Our Verdict

Magma Resort Santorini Review

Magma Resort Santorini, part of Hyatt's Unbound Collection, offers discreet luxury with personalized guest experiences in a unique destination. This resort offers amazing views of the Aegean Sea with dramatic sunrises, a holistic wellness center with a spa, and extraordinary culinary experiences.

Magma Resort Santorini is located on the lava-made slopes of Vourvoulos, nestled among traditional vineyards, on the tranquil side of Santorini. It is in close proximity to the picturesque lava sand beaches and the more action packed areas of the island such as Fira (10 minutes away) and Oia (20 minutes away).

Magma Resort Santorini is the perfect blend of sustainable modern design and the island's local character.

This review is based off of our personal stay in October of 2022. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at the Magma Resort Santorini, book through Hyatt Privé to take advantage of exclusive complimentary extras like a confirmed one category room upgrade (if available, confirmed within 24-48 hours of booking), $100 USD resort credit (once per stay), daily breakfast for 2 and a welcome amenity. And let’s just say, Magma Resort Santorini takes very good care of our clients. To request Hyatt Privé rates, just visit liveluxetravelco.com/hyatt-prive.

While Magma Resort Santorini isn't in the middle of the action, it's your quiet, peaceful escape that is far enough removed from the hustle and bustle but close enough to enjoy when you want.

The Unbound Collection by Hyatt are one-of-a-kind hotels that allow open-minded travelers a thoughtful curation of stories worth collecting. Magma Resort Santorini is a place to reconnect with your inner wellbeing.

Our Room

During our stay at Magma Santorini, we stayed in a King Sea View Plunge Pool room. All of the rooms and suites at Magma offer incredible views of the Aegean Sea. The 59 guest rooms and suites all feature sublime architecture that connects the treasures of nature with minimal elements. It's worth noting that all the accommodations offer Nespresso® machine with coffee and tea facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi, LED TV with screen mirroring function, individually controlled heat and air-conditioning, walk-in shower, hairdryer, bathrobes, iron / ironing board (upon request), wardrobe with safe, access to gym, and 24h room service (fee).

The King Bed Sea View Plunge Pool is 30 sq m, offering a king-bed with endless views to the Resort, introducing modern comfort, exclusive design and relaxed ambience with a private pool.

The room had a private terrace with a table for 2, a couple of sun beds and a plunge pool. The pools currently aren't heated, but we spoke to the management of the resort and they said they are adding heaters next year.

The bathroom was one room with toilet, shower and vanity. The texture and use of materials in the bathroom was amazing from the countertop, to the concrete walls to the wooden shower floor.

The hotel features their own local brand of Greek toiletries.

Amenities

Magma Resort Santorini's amenities include the main pool, Lava Spa & Wellness center and on-site restaurant.

Lava Spa & Wellness center features the spa with indoor heated pool, sauna & steam room and the fitness center.

Charter an experience of wellbeing at our state-of-the-art Wellness Center and subterranean Spa, discover signature treatments and step into a journey of self-realization and rejuvenation.

The spa only has 3 treatment rooms, one of which can be a couples room or 2 individuals.

During our stay we enjoyed a massage as well as the use of the spa facilities. Both were a great experience. The therapists were very nice, friendly, professional and well practiced. Since they haven't had many guests they are still working out a few kinks with the spa.

The fitness center is equipped with 2 treadmills, an elliptical, a stationary bike, a rowing machine, some free weights, a weight machine and an area to do yoga. Personally we think the gym has plenty of room to add a few more pieces of equipment and we passed along our feedback to the resort.

The hotel is working on offering a complimentary shuttle service into Fira and Oia. It hasn't launched yet, but they are hoping to launch next season.

Dining

When you think of food and beverage in Santorini you probably think of traditional greek cuisine such as greek salad, tomatokeftedes, Feta Me Meli, Gyros and more. Well, Spondi by Magma is a new gastronomic destination on the island blending traditional Greek cuisine with modern cooking techniques and ingredients.

A passion-driven culinary concept designed around the earth’s bounty. A dining accomplishment, unraveling in cohesion with the five senses leading to the road of Haute gastronomy. An unfolding discovery from the vision of art, listening to what cannot be told.

This is the hotels main restaurant where breakfast, lunch and dinner are served. If you book through Hyatt Privé this is where the complimentary breakfast can be enjoyed.

During our stay we enjoyed breakfast each morning and since it was included for our Hyatt Privé stay, it saved us about $90 USD each day. To be honest a lot of hotels and resorts struggle to execute breakfast well and Spondi by Magma had a fantastic breakfast. They have a small buffet as well as an a la carte menu.

Service

From the moment we were dropped off at Magma Resort Santorini, we were greeted by friendly, helpful and smiling staff. They truly made an effort to get to know us during our stay. We never had to wait very long during meals to order things or for them to come back and check on us. The one thing we will tell you is that when in Greece, don't be in a hurry for meals. They aren't going to move very quickly and they are meant to be enjoyed.

Housekeeping was very efficient and thorough each day. We loved coming back to the room being "perfect” after a day out exploring. And no they didn’t forget to make the bed. The throw on the bed is to tell the story of lava (Magma).

Overall Impression

The boutique and intimate Magma Resort Santorini will allow you to get some rest and relaxation in since you're note in the action and tourist packed Oia. But you're still close enough to do shopping, sight seeing, wine tasting and all of the many things that Santorini has to offer. While this is a new resort (just opened 60 days ago), they are quickly figuring things out and are eager to welcome guests next seasons with an even more complete and well oiled machine.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Magma Resort Santorini with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Hyatt Privé partnership, you’ll receive a $100 USD equivalent resort credit (once per stay, conversion rate is determined by the resort) to use on dining or spa treatments, daily breakfast for two, a confirmed one category room upgrade (if available, confirmed within 24-48 hours of booking) and a welcome amenity.

Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya Review

Our Verdict

Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya

Located among the mangroves of the magical Riviera Maya about an hour and 45 minutes from Cancun International Airport and 25 minutes from Tulum, ancient roots and a future-focused commitment to sustainability blend in a mesmerizing dance at this new resort. 

Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya opened earlier this year and has 349 guest rooms and suites. The room and suites are housed in 6 houses (or buildings) that create an arc around a cove and beach area. This new luxury resort truly has something for everyone.

Seek serenity in the luxury spa, savor sea-to-table cuisine at the resort's 11 restaurants, or discover your sense of wonder relaxing in the sun. And the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya features an expansive fitness center, cycling studio and yoga room to work off those extra calories. 

If you’re traveling with kiddos, the Conrad Tulum has a kids club and teens club along with babysitting services available for an additional fee. 

This review is based on our personal stay in September of 2022. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya book through Live Luxe Travel Co. to take advantage of exclusive Hilton Impresario benefits such as hotel/resort credits, daily breakfast, room upgrades and more.

Our Room

During our stay we occupied the 1 Bedroom Governors Suite. Take in sweeping beach and ocean views from the top floor of the hotel. This 1,565 sq. ft. suite features floor-to-ceiling windows and a spacious living room with comfortable sectional and armchairs. Enjoy a meal at the dining table for 8 and prepare drinks at the adjacent kitchenette and bar. The large bedroom offers a seating area and sumptuous king-sized bed.

Enjoy a spa-like master bathroom with double sink, separate vanity, and wet room with free standing soaking tub and rainfall shower. A WC area is located on the living room near to the main entrance. Enjoy the ocean air from the balcony relaxation tub for two. The suite can connect to the adjacent two double bed guest room to make a two-bedroom suite. Other amenities include a Nespresso machine, 65-inch HDTV, ample closet, and safe.

Amenities

The resort features a MASSIVE fitness center. In addition to the fitness room, there are glass sectioned-off rooms are available privately for yoga and spin classes. And the property features walking miles of walking trails in case you want to get some cardio in outdoors. 

The spa at the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya is just gorgeous. And it's the perfect place to spend a day treating yourself, taking care of yourself and forgetting about the rest of the world. The spa is constructed from natural rock and timbers from the region. The central lounge is designed like a cenote, with sunlight flooding in through a huge opening in the dome, which hits different sun-beds throughout the day. The treatment rooms are casitas and are extremely well designed and relaxing, setting the tone for your treatment. 

During our stay, the hardest decision we had to make was which of the 5 pools or the beach were we going to post up at for the day. 

Dining

And when it comes to the restaurants, there are plenty of options for your every craving. The open kitchen breakfast at Arbolea was one of our favorite hotel breakfasts. Evening cocktails at Ultramar had an immense energy with the live DJ. Dinner at Maratea transported us to Greece. And grabbing an afternoon coffee or post-workout smoothie at Cafétal offered the fuel we needed. 

Breakfast at Arbolea was incredible. If you’re looking for a breakfast spread, they have you covered. There was a French Toast/Pancake station, an Oatmeal station, eggs made to order, Avocado Toast station, Chilaquiles station, Tamales and Quesadilla station, and more. Plus there is a whole spread of cold cuts, cheeses, yogurt, cereal, pastries and fruit. 

Service

We will be honest and upfront that we were a bit apprehensive about the service we’d experience at the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya. Why?

We’ve stayed at a couple of underwhelming Conrad Hotels and Resorts. But our concerns were nothing more than that. The service at the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya is some of the best we’ve had in Mexico. The staff to guest ratio is extremely high and every staff member we interacted with was friendly, helpful and went above and beyond to ensure we had an enjoyable stay. 

Overall Impression

The Conrad Tulum is your sanctuary of wonders on the Riviera Maya coast. And you might ask what makes the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya different from the hundreds of other resorts in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya and Tulum?

This newcomer has enough going for it to keep you easily entertained for a week but it has a refined and boutique feel. You'll never feel like you are at a massive resort factory. Plus it draws regional influence to give you a sense of place and make you feel like you're in Mexico. 

This five-star luxury resort is the perfect destination for a family getaway, couples getaway, honeymoon, or a friends trip.

The entire experience from beginning to end was nothing short of perfect.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya with Live Luxe Travel Co., through Hilton Impresario, you’ll receive value added benefits such as hotel/resort credits, daily breakfast, room upgrades and more.

Six Senses Zighy Bay - Review

Our Verdict

Six Senses Zighy Bay - Review

Escape to the hidden jewel of Oman, Six Senses Zighy Bay. This resort is nestled in Oman's dramatic Musandam Peninsula where rugged mountain peaks dive into crystal clear waters. This village-inspired resort in Oman offers luxurious accommodations in a range of villas, suites and beachfront retreats. Each accommodation offers a private pool, traditional summer house and plenty of space to spread out and relax. This luxury oasis offers something for everyone including unique dining with both local and international cuisine featuring locally grown organic ingredients, an amazing spa and more than 30 unique experiences.

At Six Senses Zighy Bay you will be free from the distractions of life. Six Senses properties are all about reinvigorating your senses and that's just what a stay at Zighy Bay will do for you. Take time to disconnect so you can reconnect with yourself and with others.

Zighy Bay is located 120 kilometres or 120 minutes drive from Dubai International Airport, which is the gateway city to Six Senses Zighy Bay. Guests have a choice of arrival experiences which include a scenic fifteen-minute speed boat trip or a drive down from the top of the hill overlooking the bay. For an additional charge, guests can choose to be a companion passenger with the Six Senses professional para-glider!

In total, the 82 suites, villas and beachfront retreats at Six Senses Zighy Bay are traditional Omani style with modern amenities. With pops of color, the cool interiors lead out to private pool areas with cobblestone walls, sun loungers and shaded summer houses.

Whether you stay in a one-bedroom accommodation, a multiple bedroom accommodation or an extraordinary villa, they all offer a spacious and personal environment with rustic chic décor, and bathrooms extending to an outdoor shower.

Marhaba means “welcome” in Arabic. And a warm marhaba greets you at Six Senses Zighy Bay which is set between the Hajar Mountains and the sea. If you're looking for an unforgettable experience, you've come to the right place.

This review is based on our personal stay in March of 2022. If you are planning to stay at Six Senses Zighy Bay, book through Live Luxe Travel Co. to take advantage of exclusive Virtuoso benefits like a room upgrade (if available at check-in), full daily breakfast for two guests per bedroom, a complimentary 50-minute massage for up to two guests per room (once during stay), early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Our Room

Talk about VIP treatment, during our stay at Zighy Bay we got to stay in the Private Reserve. Located at the secluded end of Zighy Bay, tucked up against the mountain, on its own stretch of private beach, The Private Reserve has been carefully designed to reflect the traditional local Omani architecture.

The exclusive entrance leads to an open court which overlooks the three buildings that make this a true Arabian Palace of Wonders. With its four bedrooms, the Private Reserve - the largest of its type in the Middle East – offers a variety of separate living and dining room areas for entertaining, a wine cellar, staff quarters, a 60 feet (17 meters) infinity swimming pool and a 24x7 GEM (Guest Experience Maker).

The master bedroom on the second floor was our home during our stay. It featured a large living room with balcony, the separate bedroom, large closet/changing room, full bathroom with copper bathtub, and an outdoor shower.

All of the accommodations at Six Senses Zighy Bay include the following amenities: individually controlled air-conditioning and ceiling fans, working and dressing table, private wine cellar, personal safe, hairdryer and espresso machine, IDD telephone, wireless internet and cordless phone, tea and coffee making facilities, CD, DVD Home Integrated Theatre System, flat panel TV with satellite TV channels, oversized bathtubs, large daybeds, private sun lounge and outdoor dining suite, infinity-edged pools, and more.

Most of the bath products you find at Six Senses are created with natural and sustainable ingredients. In fact, the bar soap is created on property at The Earth Lab.

Amenities

Perhaps one of the best amenities at Six Senses Zighy Bay is the 1 mile of pristine white sandy beach that the resort sits on. And if the beach isn't for you, there is a large fresh water swimming pool with poolside service, offering meals, beverages and homemade ice creams. Or perhaps you'd prefer to take a dip in the 100-foot salt water pool, the only one in the Gulf with Roman steps and a swim-round island.

Is wellness important to you? The resort features a well-equipped fitness center, outdoor jungle gym and outdoor yoga pavillion. And if you're interested, there are wellness programs to improve your movement, stamina and tone.

And it wouldn't be a true Six Senses experience without the Six Senses Spa. The spa features 9 treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge, two Arabian hammams (bathhouse), steam room, sauna and ice cave within male and female changing rooms, and an Alchemy Bar. One really cool thing about Six Senses Spas is that they have the latest technology combined with local traditional healing techniques.

Whether you want a simple treatment like a massage, facial, or a more personalize and comprehensive program such as one focused on wellness, sleep, detox or immunity booster, this is the place to connect with yourself.

During our stay we had a 60 minute massage and it was one of the top five massages we've ever had. The therapist tailored the massage from start to finish to exactly what each of us needed. During the treatment, silicone cups, hot stones and warm compresses are used, depending on the individual’s needs.

Another great amenity of Six Senses Zighy Bay is their activities center that is located adjacent to the lobby. The setting of Zighy Bay is ripe for adventure and thrill seekers. Activities include: paragliding, microlight, village trek, a visit to a local farm in the neighboring town of Dibba, handline fishing, a sunset cruise, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, archery and more.

During our stay we were very adventurous and went paragliding. One minute you’re on the launch pad (next to Sense on the Edge Restaurant) at 960 feet above sea level. And the next minute you’re soaring through the sky before gently descending to the soft sandy Zighy beach below. The flight time is dependent on current conditions but lasts on average about 5 minutes.

The pilot made sure we were comfortable during our flight and even helped us take some great photos!

We also went out on a traditional Dhahab Dhow (Oman boat) for a day trip. The trip included swimming, drinks, lunch and beautiful scenic views.

Dining

The culinary program at Six Senses Zighy Bay celebrates unique, fresh and local ingredients. Some of the ingredients are grown on property at the organic garden and a majority of the rest come from a farm in the neighboring city of Dibba.

Six Senses Zighy Bay has six food and beverage outlets on property. Summer House serving contemporary international cuisine (open for lunch, bites, drinks and dinner), Spice Market serving delicacies of Arabic origins (open for breakfast and dinner), Sense on the Edge serving Spanish inspired cuisine (open for dinner), Zighy Bar serving drinks and bites (open from (9:30 pm to Midnight), Shua Shack serving traditional lamb cooked in the sand (open for lunch & dinner), and the Wine Cellar serving pairing menus (open for private dinners).

For breakfast one morning, we had a private in-villa breakfast which was incredible. It was like the breakfast buffet at Spice Market that was brought to our villa. There was fresh fruit, charcuterie, a variety of pastries, breakfast meats, quiche, fresh made yogurts, a juice bar, a coffee bar and more.

Both the food and the service at the in-villa breakfast were incredible. If you wanted things that weren't on the buffet such as eggs made to order or anything special, the staff was very accommodating.

For lunch we dined at Shua Shack which offers an incredible view while your feet rest in the sand. The service during lunch at Shua Shack was superb. We didn't feel rushed and we were well attended to.

Our favorite meal we had at Zighy Bay was the Asian Street Food night. This was setup near Summer House and included a variety of stations where chefs were preparing dishes made to order. There was sushi, Pad Thai, fried rice, duck soup, a kabob station, a dessert bar and more.

Breakfast at Spice Market is a must! This breakfast buffet has a little bit of everything. Even the pickiest of eaters will find something here. You'll find traditional Arabic dishes, the most delicious fresh baked Zaatar croissants, fresh fruit, fresh juices, freshly made yogurts including plant based yogurt, an egg station, and more.

Service

Sustainability is a the heart of what Six Senses does. This is no different at Zighy Bay. Zighy Bay is big on reducing waste by grinding up glass and repurposing it, creating their own soap in the Earth Lab, and eliminating plastics. Six Senses Zighy Bay actually employs a full time sustainability officer to continue to make the resort more and more sustainable and self sufficient.

Six Senses Zighy Bay actually pulls water from the ocean, puts it through a filtration process and creates their own fresh drinking water. This infrastructure not only supports the resort, but also treats water for the neighboring village adjacent to the resort. At Six Senses you'll improve your own health and the health of the planet.

Service at Six Senses is personal, connected and catered to each individual guest. Service that is emotional and truly helps you reawaken your senses is just what you'll get.

All of the staff including our GEM (Guest Experience Maker) really treated us like family and made an effort to get to know us.

Overall Impression

From the moment you arrive until the moment you leave, you will experience your senses. You'll leave stimulated, energized and resorted. The

Six Senses brand strives to embody a passion for wellness, community, sustainable design and smiles. And after staying at our first Six Senses, we can't wait to visit another property.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Six Senses Zighy Bay with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Virtuoso partnership, you’ll receive a room upgrade (if available at check-in), full breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom, in restaurant or via In-Room Dining, complimentary 50-minute massage per person, for up to two guests per room (once during stay), early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Kimpton St Honoré Paris Review

Our Verdict

Kimpton St Honoré Paris Review

Located in the heart of Paris, Kimpton St Honoré is a luxury lifestyle boutique hotel featuring chic modern design, casual dining, an amazing spa, and unparalleled views of the city.

This Kimpton should be the new flagship property for all future Kimpton's around the world. It’s truly one of a kind and offers the perfect laid back luxury experience with a great room product, top-notch service and more.

Located just moments away from Opera, Faubourg St Honoré and the Tuileries Gardens, Kimpton St Honoré Paris brings creative flair to it’s 1917 Art Nouveau facade.

Kimpton St. Honoré Paris bring a light-hearted sense of Paris chic to guests. This hotel truly feels like your Parisian home away from home and has a very residential feel.

This review is based off of our personal stay in October of 2021 & March of 2022. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at the Kimpton St Honoré, book through IHG Luxury & Lifestyle to take advantage of exclusive complimentary extras like a room upgrade (if available, at check-in), $100 USD hotel credit, daily breakfast and a welcome amenity. And let’s just say, the Kimpton St. Honoré takes very good care of our clients. To request IHG Luxury & Lifestyle rates, just visit liveluxetravelco.com/ihg-luxury-lifestyle.

If you're looking for something new and fresh for your next visit to Paris, we recommend checking out Kimpton St Honoré. This isn't your classic Parisian hotel, but it's the new modern, chic and luxurious version.

The Kimpton brand is all about an experience as unique as you are. And from the moment you arrive at Kimpton St Honoré, that’s what you're going to experience. The hotel is crafted from the finest marble, brass fixtures, crafted hardwood floors, beautifully appointed furniture and more.

Our Room

During our stay at Kimpton St Honoré, we wanted a super luxurious and spacious weekend in Paris, so we stayed in La Suite Honoré (presidential suite). Not just Suite Honoré, but all of the guest rooms and suites feel like your Parisian apartment. The 123 guest rooms and 26 suites all feature Art-Deco inspired interiors. And it's worth noting that all accommodations features a wireless Bang & Olufsen speaker, Codage Paris bath amenities, TV with Chromecast technology​, espresso machines with coffee pods from local roastery Lomi Paris, electric hot water kettle with Kusmi Tea products, bottled still and sparkling water and a minibar with gourmet local treats.

La Suite Honoré features a large dining room table with a small kitchen, living room, powder bath, an oversized bedroom with sitting area, a wide bathroom with free standing tub and rain shower and a large walk-in closet.

This suite is over 1,100 square feet (110 square meters) and features a wrap around balcony with views of the Opera across the street from the dining room and living room and the Eiffel tower from the bedroom and bathroom.

La Suite Honoré is a true one bedroom suite that offers a sperate bedroom and living area. The living area features a couch, two chairs, a flat-screen TV with Chromecast, a desk and a minibar.

The bathroom in Suite Honoré is incredibly large. It has a free-standing tub that has a view of the Eiffel Tower as it sparkles at night. The bathroom also has a double vanity, a large walk-in shower with rain head and a separate toilet area.

The entire hotel features Codage Paris toiletries which are quite nice. Codage is a local French brand of cosmetics that is all about natural, clean and environmentally friendly ingredients.

Amenities

Kimpton St Honoré offers plenty of amenities for everyone, including a lower level that houses the fitness center, indoor pool, sauna, steam room and the Codage spa.

Codage Spa at Kimpton St Honoré is one of the newest luxury spas in Paris. Find some time for yourself and indulge in the ultimate treat at this luxury spa in partnership with CODAGE Paris. You’ll enjoy tailor-made treatments by their highly trained therapists to help accentuate your individual beauty with expert advice on your skin’s needs.

All the products in the spa are formulated and made in CODAGE’s laboratory located in the South of France. In fact during our first stay, we went for a facial at Codage Spa and purchased MyCodage which was a personalized prescription made on demand after a complete skin diagnosis. The facial serum is custom blended to your unique needs, lifestyle and the environment in which you live in.

We'd highly recommend a visit to Codage during your stay for either a treatment or for MyCodage.

The fitness center is open 24-hours and even though it's quite small, it has plenty of equipment and space to get a great workout in. The TechnoGym equipment is state-of-the-art and even includes some fitness classes.

The hotel also offers complimentary made-in-France Jitensha bicycles (classic and electric models available) that you can take out for a pedal around the city.

Dining

When you think of food in Paris, you probably think of Michelin star restaurants and traditional French cuisine. Well if that's what you're looking for you might be disappointed, but let us be the first to tell you that Montecito Restaurant and Bar is the first America's West Coast inspired restaurant that brings something new and exciting to the city. Monteciot is your California getaway in the heart of Paris.

You can expect lush greenery and casual-chic colorful plates, all executed with a Californian flair, to exacting French techniques. Delectable craft cocktails and live music add the final touch to an evening of California dream.

This is the hotels main restaurant where breakfast, lunch and dinner are served. If you book through IHG Luxury & Lifestyle or Virtuoso, this is where the complimentary breakfast can be enjoyed.

During our stay we enjoyed breakfast each morning and since it was included for our IHG Luxury & Lifestyle stay, it saved us about $90 USD each day. We tried the huevos rancheros, and the breakfast sandwich. Both of these dishes are not your typical American breakfast, they have a contemporary twist to them.

If you're looking for a fun night out in Paris, make sure you stop by Montecito for Kimpton social hour and enjoy a complimentary drink by presenting your room key. Most nights of the week, they have a DJ, colored lights and a whole low-key chill vibe.

The other food and beverage outlet at Kimpton St Honoré is Sequoia Rooftop Bar. Sequoia offers iconic 360-degree views of Central Paris, which will make you feel like you're living a fairytale. The views of the city are like none other. Rooftop bars aren't very common in Paris, so this is the perfect place for the most Instagramable photo, the perfect proposal or just a romantic moment with your significant other.

Now back to Montecito. For dinner we had a family style dinner with lots of dishes to share including: lobster pasta, tuna wontons, tomahawk steak, macaroni and cheese, and more.

Insider tip: order the lobster linguini, you'll thank us later.

Service

From the moment we arrived curb-side to Kimpton St Honoré, we were greeted with friendly smiles, and helpful, personal service. The check-in process was quick and easy, we were even escorted to our room.

And after a long day of flying, we ordered in-room dining and the team wanted it to be special so they gave us a dinner with a view of The Opera in our suite. The in-room dining staff was very attentive and made sure we had everything that we needed. And after a long day of traveling a quick good meal was just what we needed.

The staff at Montecito was very attentive and quick to make sure we had what we needed during breakfast, dinner and social hour.

Housekeeping was very efficient and thorough each day. We loved coming back to the room being "perfect” after a day exploring the city and shopping.

The only challenge we encountered was with the concierge. They were pretty slow to respond to requests and we asked them to book our return transportation from the hotel back to the airport. The morning we were departing the transfer never showed up and we ended up having to have the reception staff call a taxi. We've spoken to the team about these issues and they are working on improving their responsiveness and follow through.

Kimpton is all about staying human and making connections and that's exactly how we felt during our stay.

Overall Impression

The luxurious Kimpton St Honoré Paris allows you to live out all your wildest Parisian dreams. The location being close to Opera, Place Vendome and Galleries Lafayette makes for great shopping. The service, the food, the rooftop, the amenities and the accommodations will have you not wanting to leave. This might be a bold statement to make, but this is the best Kimpton property and an amazing luxury lifestyle offering in a city filled with classic, over-the-top hotels.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Kimpton St Honoré Paris with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our IHG Luxury & Lifestyle partnership, you’ll receive a $100 hotel credit to use on dining, daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade and a welcome amenity.

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection Review

Our Verdict

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

Welcome to Mauna Lani. Nestled along the dramatic Kohala Coast and in the piko, or center, of five great mountains, Mauna Lani is a sacred oasis where generations of families and friends have made memories together on soulful lands once cherished by the greatest of Hawaiian royalty. Mauna Lani, an Auberge Collection Resort offers 333 guest rooms including suites and 5 private residences. And even though a resort with 300+ rooms might seem bit, Mauna Lani feel very luxurious, intimate and boutique.

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection is a luxury resort on the Big Island of Hawaii and is approximately 23 miles north of the Kona International Airport. The resort is just a short 25-minute drive from the airport.

Mauna Lani offers luxurious accommodations, dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean, an Auberge Spa, a wellness center & tennis courts, an incredible indoor/outdoor fitness center, a boutique, a grab & go market, world-class culinary experiences and more.

Mauna Lani is the perfect place to experience true Hawaiian culture, hospitality and traditions, while enjoying the high-tech amenities the modern traveler expects. Auberge resorts collection properties are all about giving visitors a local, authentic and meaningful experience. Your Hawaiian adventures starts and ends at Mauna Lani.

This review is based on our personal stay in May of 2021. If you are planning to stay at Mauna Lani, book through Live Luxe Travel Co. to take advantage of exclusive Virtuoso benefits like a room upgrade (if available at check-in), $100 resort credit, daily breakfast and a welcome amenity.

And for a limited time take advantage of a couple of promotions. Receive a $200 nightly resort credit on stays of 5 nights or more or receive every 5th night free.

Our Room

During our journey at Mauna Lani, we stayed in an One Bedroom Oceanfront Suite. Experience extraordinary oceanfront living with one of the resort’s largest one-bedroom suites, spread over 1,140 square feet with a separate living area and two spacious lanais, all overlooking sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.

The Ocean View Suites are true one bedroom suites with a door that separates the bedroom from the living area. The living area features a full-bathroom with walk-in shower, a small dining table, coffee bar and a small living area. The bedroom features a small sitting area and a king size bed.

All of the rooms at Mauna Lani features master control light switches next to the bed that allow you to turn everything on and off. And as many hotels and resorts we stay at, this one small feature is such a modern convenience that we appreciate.

Auberge Resorts are known to be luxurious while still approachable and relaxed. At Mauna Lani you’ll find an understated, natural décor that’s bright and refined, with ample hardwood, natural fabrics, and textures that embody the essence of the soulful Hawaiian escape.

As mentioned, the One Bedroom Oceanview Suites feature two full bathrooms with dual vanities and walk-in showers. The bathroom in the bedroom was very spacious and also featured a large freestanding tub.

Amenities

Whether you're a beach goer or like to spend your days in the sun at the pool, Mauna Lani has something for everyone. The resort offers and adults-only pool, a large family pool and plenty of chairs on the beach.

Mauna Lani features an Auberge Spa which is a true farm-to-spa experience. Treatments at Mauna Lani's Auberge Spa feature the revitalizing benefits of local oils, herbs, honey and flowers that canvas the Island of Hawai'i.

During our stay we enjoyed massages which were incredible. We opted for the Lomi Lomi Massage. Open your heart, mind, body and soul with this signature Hawaiian healing massage passed down from generation to generation. An exclusive herbal oil blend melts away tension in this ancient technique, which utilizes Hawaiian ti leaves and rhythmic forearm strokes, allowing you to experience the expansive feeling of mohala (a heart opening experience).

Is fitness a big part of your life? Do you enjoy getting your sweat on while on vacation? Well, Mauna Lani features an amazing fitness center that is both indoors and outdoors. The indoor and outdoor sections of the fitness center are separated by a wall of sliding doors. When the weather is nice, the sliding doors are left open so guests can freely move between the indoors and outdoors.

The indoor part of the gym features plenty of cardio equipment including Peloton bikes, treadmills, elliptical machines, a stair master, free weights and a few cable machines.

The outdoor area of the gym features a couple more Peloton bikes during the day and it also features weight benches, more free weights, a squat rack, a weight training sled and more.

Mauna Lani features a surf shack near the beach where you can begin your adventure. They have snorkel gear, paddle boards, outrigger canoes, and bikes.

Dining

The meals you will experience at Mauna Lani will nourish your mind, body and soul. Whether it's breakfast at HāLani, afternoon happy hour at Hā Bar and Grill, or an amazing sunset dinner at CanoeHouse, your senses are sure to be satisfied.

Welcome to CanoeHouse, your connection between land and sea. Only open for dinner, CanoeHouse boasts an assortment of farm-fresh and dynamic dishes showcasing ingredients sourced mere minutes from Mauna Lani. When you dine at CanoeHouse, you’re welcomed into the Mauna Lani ‘ohana (family).

HāLani is Mauna Lani''s main restaurant that is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This is where Virtuoso breakfast is served. And if you've got breakfast included through Virtuoso, this is about a $50 value per person, per day. The food at HāLani features local ingredients and locally inspired dishes.

One evening for a more casual dinner we had fish tacos at Hā Bar and Grill which were incredible. Hā Bar and Grill is the place to go for all of the action. The acoustic hum of live music coupled with prime views of the sunset make for the perfect ambience to cap off another day in paradise.

And if you're in the mood for a sweet treat, this ice cream sundae with brownies, caramel and bananas is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Mauna Lani also features The Market which is inspired by NYC's delis. The Market has snacks, a coffee bar, plenty of adult beverages, a deli counter with sandwiches, pizza and more. And lastly The Market has essentials like personal care items such as hygine products and sunscreen.

Service

Mauna Lani truly makes you feel like you're at a five star boutique resort from the moment you arrive to the moment you depart. All of the staff that encountered was friendly, made an effort to get to know the guests and really made the service personal. By the last day of our stay at breakfast each day they knew our coffee order.

Overall Impression

Just like any other Auberge Resorts Collection properties, your stay at Mauna Lani is a journey. This ocean front haven is filled with Hawaiian culture through the food, the activities, the spa treatments and more.

This luxury resort is the perfect spot for a family getaway, couples getaway, honeymoon, or a friends trip.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Mauna Lani with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Virtuoso partnership, you’ll receive a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade and a welcome amenity.

Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection, Riviera Maya - Review

Our Verdict

Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection, Riviera Maya - Review

Located in Riviera Maya, Mexico, Etéreo is an ocean front retreat. The resort floats over a protected mangrove forest and faces the beautiful white sand beaches of the Caribbean. Etéreo — meaning ethereal, something spiritual and heavenly — invites you to visit and explore the cycle of renewal of that which enriches life: relationships, inspiration, connection to nature, senses, rhythm, and appreciation.

At Etéreo, you’re freed from the distractions of modern life and supported by three pillars - extraordinary cuisine, breathtaking encounters with nature and an Auberge Spa so you can relax and recharge. And if you know anything about Auberge properties, they are all about creating one-of-a-kind experiences.

Discover Mexico through its culture, makers, history, sights and sounds. All of the activities at Etéreo are designed to enliven your senses through discovery and renewal. The curated list of activities range from golfing in Riviera Maya, having the sauna to yourself with a healing ritual, exploring cenotes of Mexico, snorkeling the Great Mayan Reef, setting the days intentions during a coffee or tea ritual, indulging in the history of cacao, capturing the sunset on canvas, calm the mind with chromatic breathing and more.

Like we mentioned Auberge is all about creating one-of-a-kind experiences and there is truly an activity for everyone.

Each of the 75 accommodations (57 studios, 14 suites and 4 penthouses) at Etéreo has dramatic mangrove and ocean views, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows connecting you to the surrounding nature. Whether you stay in a Studio or Suite, the accommodations at Etéreo are unforgettable. Studio-style rooms feature a private terrace, plunge pool, ocean views and floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that open up to let in the breeze of the Caribbean Sea. The expansive suites feature space to spread out, relax and spend time on your private rooftop deck or private hot tub.

If you’re looking for a luxurious, boutique and personalized experience in Riviera Maya, then Etéreo should be at the top of your list of places to visit. During your stay at Etéreo you’ll feel relaxed, recharged and connected with yourself and with nature.

This review is based on our personal stay in January of 2022. If you are planning to stay at Etéreo, book through Live Luxe Travel Co. to take advantage of exclusive Virtuoso benefits like a room upgrade (if available at check-in), $100 resort credit, daily $70 USD breakfast credit and a welcome amenity.

Our Room

Both the architecture and interiors of the accommodations blend contemporary and modern design with local and natural materials. Each accommodation celebrates local artisans with unique furnishings, textiles and carved wooden walls by revered artist Manuel Felguérez.

During our stay we stayed in a Mangrove Studio with Plunge Pool. Even though, this is the entry level room category it packs a wow factor. Our studio was 875 square feet of indoor/outdoor open living space. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer incredible views of the lush mangroves and out to the Caribbean Sea.

The outdoor terrace featured a small lawn, private in-ground plunge pool and seating area. While the pool is your own pool, it isn’t completely private. There are floating walkways suspended above the lush mangroves that take you to the beach, to Itzam (restaurant), and to the pool that are just steps away.

The Mangrove Studios with King Bed can be connected to a Mangrove Studio with 2 Queen beds. The open concept studios feature a beautiful wrapped leather bed, a hand-carved wooden accent wall by artist Manuel Felguérez.

All of the accommodations at Etéreo feature a complimentary offering of snacks and beverages that are replenished daily, down duvets, robes and slippers, a yoga mat, a steamer, insect repelent, bug bite ointment and more.

Our Mangrove Studio featured a large open concept bathroom with dual vanity, large soaking tub, water closet and separate shower.

Etéreo features their own toiletries that are local to Mexico.

Amenities

Etéreo is arranged in three islands. The first island is the front drive where you arrive, front desk, SANA an Auberge Spa and meeting space. The second island is the guest rooms, and boutique. And the third island is the restaurants pool and beach. There certainly isn’t a lack of things to do at Etéreo, The activities will inspire you expand your horizon and challenge the realm of your familiarity.

There are two pools at Etéreo, the upper pool closest to the guest rooms is a family pool and the lower pool and Jacuzzi is the adults pool.

And if the pool isn’t for you there is a gorgeous beach with cabanas that are first come, first serve. A couple of shaded lounge areas to rest and relax and a beachside restaurant and bar.

Sana, an Auberge Spa delivers an unparalleled healing space inspired by its surroundings. Sana features seperate men’s and women’s locker rooms and facilities that include a cenote, steam, sauna, sound, and clay rooms and outdoor spa pool and jacuzzi.

Indulge yourself on a guided journey of the spa facilities whether you’re having a treatment or not. The spa facilities are available for use by all guests, they just require an appointment.

During our stay we participated in a guided journey starting with 10 minutes in the steam room. The spa attendant placed eucalyptus salt into the steam source and in 10 minutes returned to guide us to the next step. The next step on our journey was 10 minutes in the sauna where the attendant placed cucumber slices over our eyes and a chilled towel over our face. The second to last step was participating in a sound healing ritual which was quite nice. With our eyes closed the sounds brought southing thoughts that made the stresses of everyday life disappear. And we finished our journey with a soak in the cenote.

The whole experience of staying at an Auberge Resorts Collection property is all about the journey and Sana is no different. All of the treatments at Sana offer innovative Mayan healing practices, therapies for energy dispersion, and modern self-care.

If you want to focus on your wellness, Etéreo has a beautiful state-of-the-art fitness center, Movement and Studio (great place to stretch, do yoga, etc.) The fitness center is equipped with Techno-Gym equipment and featured 2 stationary bikes, 5 treadmills, 2 ellipticals, a stair master, a couple of squat racks, a cable machine and free weights.

Dining

The culinary program at Etéreo celebrates renewal throughout the journey. With menus built to connect, native ingredients are utilized to pique interest in the flavors of Mexico for both locals and visitors alike.

Etéreo has 5 food and beverage outlets on property. Itzam is their main restaurant open for breakfast and dinner. El Carrito (a cart) offers complimentary coffee in the morning along with a selection of pastries and in the evening offers evening cocktails.

Itzam is the main restaurant which serves breakfast and dinner. Itzam’s menu is conscientiously focused on local products that are both sustainable and organic.

The service during both breakfast and dinner at Itzam was very quick, through and efficient. We never felt rushed, but we did feel well attended to.

Itzam has a great view of the beach and the ocean making for the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal.

For breakfast we tried the chilaquiles one morning which were excellent. And another morning we tried their gourmet oatmeal.

Dinner at Itzam….

Alberca which is the poolside menu offers light bights and fresh cocktails using the freshest ingredients. At the pool we enjoyed tacos and the blue fin tuna bowl. The portions were enough to fill you up, but light enough to enjoy the rest of the afternoon at the pool.

Che Che is the other restaurant at Etéreo. Currently it’s only open for the pool menu which we enjoyed for dinner one night as an early dinner.

If you're looking for the best catch of the day prepared in many ways, check out El Changarro. El Changarro offers in-the-sand dining for lunch. The menu focuses on the daily local catch served in myriad ways – as ceviche, tacos or simply grilled and accompanied by market vegetables. Guacamole, daily tortas, Mexican session beers and fresh juices make for complementary additions.

Service

Etéreo is our casa away from home. From the moment we met the first staff member at the Cancun airport, everyone we encountered during our stay made an effort to make sure we were well taken care of. I mean the staff even brought us towels to the hot tub so we didn't have to get out all dripping wet.

Every wish is your command at Etéreo.

Overall Impression

Discover your own journey at Etéreo. This oceanfront retreat offers extraordinary cuisine, breathtaking encounters with nature and rejuvenation at the spa.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Etéreo Resort with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Virtuoso partnership, you’ll receive a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade (if available at check-in and a welcome amenity.

Four Seasons Resort Nevis Review

Our Verdict

Four Seasons Resort Nevis

Welcome to the beautiful island of Nevis in the Caribbean. Saint Kitts and Nevis is a dual-island nation situated between the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea. It's known for cloud-shrouded mountains and beautiful beaches. Located in the Leeward Islands chain of the West Indies, Nevis is a tranquil and untouched Caribbean destination. At just 36-square miles, the island can be circled in about an hour and offers an abundance of history and adventure. Four Seasons Resort Nevis is located on Pinney’s Beach and continues be a modern embodiment of the spirit and soul of the Caribbean.

To get to the Four Seasons Resort Nevis, it’s just a short 20-minute water taxi ride from Christophe Harbour on St. Kitts. The resort offers 179 guest rooms, 24 suites, 4 studios, 5 estate homes, and 38 villas.

The private, 350-acre playground provides a perfect paradise for you to escape for a getaway while still feeling safe and secure.

Four Seasons Resort Nevis offers something for everyone. The resort features three infinity-edge pools, six restaurants and bars, complimentary nonmotorized water sports, and the Kids For All Seasons program for children ages 3-9. Along with a relaxing spa and an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., take part in the award-winning tennis program by Peter Burwash International.

Four Seasons Resort Nevis is a captivating combination of adventure, serenity and recreation that just waits for your discovery. From the moment you step off the boat you’ll be greeted with warm smiles and Caribbean hospitality.

This review is based on our personal stay in January of 2022. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at Four Seasons Resort Nevis book through Live Luxe Travel Co. to take advantage of exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits such as hotel/resort credits, daily breakfast, room upgrades and more.

Our Room

Four Seasons Resort Nevis got a facelift as all of the rooms and suites were recently renovated. The renovation began in 2018 and was completed in 2019.

During out recent trip, we stayed in an Indigo Suite in building 8. The Indigo Suites are the same as the Poinciana Suites. The only difference being the Indigo Suites are on the ground floor and the Poinciana Suites are on the upper floor.

The Indigo Suites are true one bedroom suites with a door that separates the bedroom from the living room. The living room featured a dining table for 4, a large sofa, mini-bar and TV.

The decor of the rooms features rattan and mahogany furnishings accented by a bright tropical theme in soft shades of beige, yellow and pink.

The bedroom featured a King size bed, large sofa, and TV. Both the bedroom and living room have access to and outdoor deck.

All accommodations at Four Seasons Resort Nevis have a hair dryer, down pillows, hypoallergenic pillows on request, luxurious bathrobes and slippers, choice of mattress-topper firmness (for rooms and suites only), baby and children's toiletries, cribs and/or rollaway bed(s) at no extra charge (subject to maximum occupancy).

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts are known for luxurious accommodations, top-notch service, excellent culinary experiences and plenty of amenities/activities and that is just what we received at the Four Seasons Resort Nevis.

Connected to the bedroom is a beautiful marble five-fixture bathroom with dual vanity, large soaking tub and walk in shower.

Four Seasons Resort Nevis features L ‘Occtaine toiletries which smell fantastic and feel great on the skin.

If you’re a couple looking to splurge we’d recommend staying in one of the Studios that has its own pool. And if you’re a family we’d recommend one of the villas with their own kitchen.

Amenities

Soca Pool

While beach vacations look different to everyone, the Four Seasons Resort Nevis is here to accommodate everyone.

The resort features 3 pools, an adults-only pool, Soca, an oceanfront pool, Calypso and the brand new signature main pool, Limin. All of the pools are fully staffed where you can order food and drinks right to your chair.

Calypso Pool

And if you’re looking to make a whole day of soaking up the sun, the resort has both pool and beach cabanas.

Limin Pool

And if you’re looking for something other than time at the pool, Four Seasons Resort Nevis offers plenty of activities. The resort has an 18-hole golf course, foot golf, tennis courts, gift shop & boutique, water-activities desk, fitness center, spa, and more.

While we didn’t have any spa treatments, we went to the spa to check it out and see what the facilities were like. The locker rooms and spa facilities are nice, but they do need a little updating. And according to management they had plans to update the spa as part of the recent enhancements to the resort, but that renovation been postponed due to COVID and supply chain issues.

If you’re looking to get a workout so you can enjoy a few guilt free cocktails by the pool, the fitness center has plenty of equipment. The fitness center featured treadmills, a stationary bike, ellipticals, spin bikes, a rower, free weights, and strength machines.

And if you prefer to workout outside, the resort has plenty of paths for a walk or jog and plenty of places for some morning yoga.

Dining

There are plenty of great local restaurants to explore in Nevis including Banana’s, Yatchman’s, Turtle Time, and Sunshines but there are also four great restaurants at the resort. Everyone told us we had to visit Sunshines for the Killer Bee cocktail, a secret rum punch. But take it from our experience if you have more than 2 or 3, you’re going to get stung!

EsQuilina is Four Seasons Resort Nevis’s main restaurant that is open for breakfast and dinner. This is where the Four Seasons Preferred Partner breakfast is served. EsQuilina serves mediterranean cuisine and is a dining concept that features seasonal favourites with daily surprise elements.

Breakfast is served via a la carte or breakfast buffet. The breakfast buffet features a hot food station with scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes and meats, an omelet station, a pancake, waffle and oatmeal station, a charcuterie station, a juice, fruit and yogurt station, and a bakery station with breads and pastries.

We opted to get the buffet for breakfast and it was excellent. Four Seasons does breakfast very well.

Since it’s nice to have a relaxing and calm morning we also chose to order in-room dining several mornings for breakfast. We placed our order via the Four Seasons app and in 30 minutes our breakfast had arrived. And if you’ve ever ordered room service before, it can sometimes be a disappointment.

Not only did our food arrive on-time, it was hot, the orders were correct, and nothing was left behind.

We also enjoyed in-room dining our first night at the resort since we arrived later in the day. If you want to have a treat yo self meal, order the chicken, steak or lobster mac & cheese.

Since occupancy was pretty low at the resort, they aren’t operating all four restaurants everyday. The restaurant hours for dinner especially vary by day. You can ask the front desk for hours of operation.

One of the other nights for dinner we ate at Mango (Caribbean Cuisine) for bbq night. Mango sits right next to the ocean and offers views of nearby St. Kitts.

Bbq night was a condensed menu that featured your choice of bbq ribs, bbq chicken, fried chicken, grilled lobster, grilled red snapper, or bbq catch of the day which are all served with coleslaw, rice and peas, and macaroni pie.

On The Dune is the newest restaurant at Four Seasons Resort Nevis and is an upscale beachside restaurant serving up Caribbean and American classics. We didn’t get to eat here due to limited hours but the menu looks excellent.

And the last food and beverage outlet we’re going to highlight is Crowned Monkey Rum Bar. Crowned Monkey Rum bar sits in the lobby right next to the entrance to EsQuilina. Boasting the finest rum and spirits from all around the world, grab a pre-dinner cocktail, late night happy hour or whatever your sophisticated self desires.

Service

Four Seasons is a leader in luxury hospitality and part of the reason for that is the level of service their properties around the world provide.

One of our favorite things about stay at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts is their app. You can manage your stay, request housekeeping, order in-room dining, view restaurant menus, message the property and more right from the palm of your hand.

The staff at Four Seasons Resort Nevis made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. Even the housekeeper stopped by each day to see if there was anything special we needed.

The entire staff was very attentive and truly made an effort to get to know us during our stay.

Overall Impression

The Four Seasons Resort Nevis is a must visit property. If you’re looking for a luxurious and relaxing vacation, then this is the place to visit.

With sweeping views of the ocean, neighboring island of St. Kitts and the mountain on Nevis you will be in awe while at Four Seasons Resort Nevis.

This five-star luxury resort is the perfect destination for a family getaway, couples getaway, honeymoon, or a friends trip.

The entire experience from beginning to end was nothing short of perfect.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Four Seasons Nevis with Live Luxe Travel Co., through Four Seasons Preferred Partner, you’ll receive value added benefits such as hotel/resort credits, daily breakfast, room upgrades and more.

Primland Resort, Auberge Resorts Collection Review

Our Verdict

Primland Resort, Auberge Resorts Collection Review

Located in the Meadows of Dan, Virginia, Primland is a back-to-nature escape. The resort sits on a private 12,000 acre estate in the Blue Ridge Mountains that offers luxurious accommodations, one-of-a-kind wilderness experiences, farm-to-table culinary offerings, world class golf and more.

At Primland, activities are endless, offering an experience of nature at its finest no matter the season. Wander the banks of streams alive with trout, experience the rush of mountain biking and gaze at primeval views and star-filled skies. From horseback riding to paddle boarding, take to the great outdoors and experience all Primland has to offer with activities that are both engaging and educational for everyone.

Consummately private, elegantly appointed, and all with exceptional views, Primland’s varied accommodations from lofty suites and treehouses to mountain homes reflect the 12,000-acre estate’s abundance of space.

Are you looking to reconnect with nature, disconnect from the world and soak in the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Auberge Resort Collection is all about enjoying fulfilling, luscious shared experiences that connect you to the local culture, its welcoming people, and the beauty of the land, all while doing good and making memories and dreams that will be forever embedded in your soul. And that is exactly how we felt while staying at Primland.

This review is based on our personal stay in September of 2021. If you are planning to stay at Primland, book through Live Luxe Travel Co. to take advantage of exclusive Virtuoso benefits like a room upgrade (if available at check-in), $100 resort credit, daily breakfast and a welcome amenity.

Our Room

On to the elegantly appointed accommodations. During our stay we stayed in one of the Pinnacle Cottages. Named after the famous Pinnacles of Dan, four gracious, chalet-like cottages each offer accommodation for up to 12 people with birds-eye views of the valley below. Don't let the word ‘cottage’ mislead you, however. While charming, these generously-proportioned, two-story abodes are stylish eyries with serene interiors and space to spare.

The Pinnacle Cottages can be configured to be multiple bedrooms. We stayed in a Cedar Bluff Room. The Cedar Bluff Rooms are situated within each of the four Pinnacle Cottages. With a king-size bed and elegant furnishings, the bedrooms are complemented by spacious bathrooms with similar awe-inspiring views.

It’s worth noting that all of the accommodations at Primland feature a complimentary offering of snacks and beverages that are replenished daily, down duvets, plush Frette robes and slippers, and custom-designed Frette sheets satisfy the senses on every level.

Our Cedar Bluff Room featured a spacious bathroom with a dual vanity, large soaking tub with a sweeping view of the valley below, a large walk-in shower, and separate water closet.

Primland features BVLGARI bath products. And besides Le Labo, these are some of our favorite hotel toiletries.

Amenities

A stay at Primland isn’t your typical escape as nature is a huge focus of the experience. There isn’t a lack for things to do since there is a golf course, hiking trails, mountain biking, horse back riding, all-terrain driving, hunting activities, fishing, a spa, and more.

The indoor pool is located in Auberge Spa and is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. We enjoyed the pool and spa facilities on a rainy day which was a great way to spend a day indoors.

Embark on a spa journey designed for you. Taking a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, the Spa combines Native American healing rituals with cutting edge modern spa techniques, organic products and essential oils to provide the most revitalizing and beneficial experience possible.

As you can imagine, spa treatments look quite different these days due to COVID. Auberge Spa at Primland takes COVID health and safety precautions very seriously and offered hand sanitizer, wore facial coverings and helped to keep spa guests socially distanced in the waiting area.

We enjoyed massages during our stay which were fantastic. Each of our therapists started our treatment by asking us to draw a card from a pile. One of our cards had a buffalo on it. After the massage was over the therapist dropped us off in the waiting room and flipped open a book to the buffalo which talked about what your body was needing, feeling etc. (much like a horoscope).

Rejuvinate and recharge in the mountain air. With views to keep you going, the spacious fitness center features state-of-the-art equipment. The indoor heated swimming pool is chlorine-free and ideal for swimming laps or cooling off after a workout. Within the spa locker rooms, you'll find a sauna and steam room to round out the hydrotherapy facilities. There is also a soft-surface tennis court, two open-air yoga/meditation decks and Bootleggers Outdoor Gym and Fitness Trail.

The fitness center has plenty of equipment to get a workout in, including a Peloton bike. But, to be honest the best workout you can get while at Primland is to go hike and explore the great outdoors.

Dining

if your looking for farm-to-table culinary options, look no further than Primland. Primland has three food and beverage outlets on property; Elements, 19th Pub and Stables Saloon.

Elements is the main restaurant, which is located in the lodge and is where breakfast and dinner is served. This is where Virtuoso breakfast is served.

Before we get to the meals we had, the service at Elements for both breakfast and dinner was excellent. The waitstaff was extremely attentive and service was quick but not rushed.

Part of dining at Elements is the ambience. The restaurant has large windows that look out onto the rolling hills of Primland and the fireplace in the middle of the room keeps you cozy.

For dinner we had an incredible meal including local trout and steak. Most of the vegetables and herbs used are grown on property in the garden you will pass on the drive up to the lodge.

While we didn’t eat at at 19th Pub, it’s located in the lodge and is open from 11 am to 11 pm. 19th pub is the perfect place to grab a more casual meal after a day exploring Primland or after a round of golf.

Now onto what was perhaps our favorite meal we had while at Primland. Stables Saloon, the former horse stable at Primland, is now one of the signature restaurants and experiences. Stables Saloon is where you go if you want a low key dinner with live music. Stables Saloon serves southern comfort food such as fried chicken, smoked meats, macaroni and cheese and more.

The meal at Stables Saloon is served family style and they bring a selection of meats and sides to the table and you can ask for more if you like something.

Stables is such a unique experience at a luxury resort. We love getting dressed up to go to a nice dinner, but this was a nice change of pace. We’d highly recommend you dine one night at Stables Saloon.

Service

The service at Primland gives you the sense that you’re not staying at a resort, but yet someone’s home. The bell staff, front desk agents, house keepers, servers and everyone else we encountered made an effort to get to know us and was super friendly.

Overall Impression

At Primland Resort every moment is one to savor. The sense of place and being you get while on the Primland estate is truly unique. What other resort can you visit that sits on 12,000 acres and has it’s own observatory!?

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Primland Resort with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Virtuoso partnership, you’ll receive a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade (if available at check-in and a welcome amenity.

Park Hyatt St Kitts Review

Updated: 1/5/22

The Park Hyatt St Kitts is located in the Christophe Harbour area on the island of St Kitts. The resort sits about 30 minutes from the airport on the southeast peninsula overlooking Nevis. If you are visiting this resort, you might choose to leave the resort to venture into Brasserie, take a boat over to Nevis or visit nearby Christophe Harbour restaurants. But with all the amenities and dining options, you don't have to leave the resort. So the Park Hyatt St. Kitts is great for those who just want to lay around and relax or for those who want a more adventurous trip full of excursions and site seeing. We planned our visit to the Park Hyatt St Kitts back in the spring of 2018 so the anticipation built up for quite awhile. And lets just say this luxury resort was worth the wait. The Park Hyatt St Kitts just opened their doors in November of 2017. And the resort did not disappoint.

The Park Hyatt St Kitts at Christophe Harbour

If you are looking for a luxurious escape smack dab in the middle of the Caribbean, then the Park Hyatt St Kitts is where you need to be. The entire resort overlooks Banana Bay which has an incredible view of Nevis.

Upon our arrival to the Park Hyatt St Kitts, we were very tired after traveling all day. So all we wanted to do was get checked into our room. From the front drive of the hotel we were escorted down a very wide candle lit sidewalk that was surrounded by water to the lobby of the hotel. There we were greeted with a cold damp towel and a glass of champagne. Definitely a nice touch!

Our Room

The Park Hyatt St Kitts consists of several dwellings with many different types of rooms. Since the resort is a bit spread out, we were given a ride on a golf cart with our luggage to our room.

The rooms boast a very luxurious yet modern beach feel. Lots of white painted wood mixed with warm tones of mahogany. During our stay we had the opportunity to stay in a Beachside King Room as well as a Park Executive Suite. Both rooms were very comfortable boasting plenty of space, incredible spa like bathrooms with freestanding tubs, walk-in showers and a closet.

The rooms are decorated very simply as not to distract from the colors of the Caribbean and the resort. Each room at the Park Hyatt St Kitts features either a private balcony or terrace.

The luxurious spa like bathroom featured a double vanity, a free standing tub, a walk in shower and a separate toilet room. And the best part is Park Hyatt has some of our favorite brand of toiletries Le Labo!

Dining

There are three dining options at the Park Hyatt St Kitts. There is the Great House (main restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner), the Fisherman's Village (seafood lovers heaven for lunch and dinner) and the Stone Barn (adult only dining for dinner).

Since we visited during slow season the Stone Barn was unfortunately closed. However, the Stone Barn menu was being served in the Great House in addition to the Great House menu. We ate breakfast each day at the Great House. They have a nice breakfast buffet that is very European with lots of cheese, smoke meats, pastries and fruit. There were also a variety of hot food items each day. And the pastries were delicious! If buffets aren't your thing, they have a great breakfast menu as well. All of the meals we at at the Great House  were absolutely incredible.

We also had the opportunity to do a coffee tasting class. During the class we were taught about coffee, how it is grown, roasted and brewed. We got to taste coffee that was brewed by six different methods, each with it's own unique taste. And since we are self proclaimed coffee snobs, this class was obviously something we really enjoyed!

Another thing we really enjoy about Hyatt properties such as the Park Hyatt St Kitts is that they truly understand the need for great craft coffee. In fact most luxury Hyatt properties feature a barista and a craft coffee menu and the Park Hyatt St Kitts was no exception from this.

Amenities

The Park Hyatt St Kitts has plenty of things to do. There are several paths to walk around the resort, there is a nice stretch of black sand beach and plenty of opportunities to relax and connect with nature. Not to mention the incredible views of Banana Bay that can be seen from all over the resort.

The resort features two pools. There is the adults only pool (Rampart Pool) with cabanas and incredible views of Banana Bay. And there is the main pool (Lagoon Pool) that features a man-made beach, and a zero-entry infinity edge pool. Both pools feature full-service food & drink.

In addition to the pools there is the Beach Shack with has all kinds of non-motorized watersports activities such as paddle boarding, snorkeling, and kayaks.

The Park Hyatt St. Kitts also features a great spa with separate men's and women's facilities such as a steam room, sauna, hot tub and outdoor showers. The facilities were very well maintained and the staff was very attentive and friendly.

It can be a struggle to get a decent workout in on vacation. But the fitness center at the Park Hyatt St Kitts won't disappoint. You'll find plenty of cardio equipment, free weights and machines to get your blood pumping. And of course afterwards, take advantage of some time relaxing in the steam room and sauna.

Overall Impression

The Park Hyatt St Kitts is a great place to relax unwind and live on island time. Despite the fact that St Kitts can be a hard place to get to, this 5-Star resort makes the hours of travel worth it in every way. And the staff at the Park Hyatt St Kitts is incredible. Everyone made an effort to get to know us. Toward the end of our stay everyone was calling us by name as if we were family.

And remember, if you book with a Hyatt Prive travel agent like Live Luxe Travel Co. , you’ll get extra benefits like complimentary breakfast, a $100 USD resort credit, a confirmed on category room upgrade, early check-in and late check-out! And occasionally the Park Hyatt St. Kitts offers promotions a free night offer when you book through a Hyatt Prive travel agent. So take advantage of some of the promotions and go visit this new luxurious resort. You won't regret it!

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort

Our Verdict

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort

Aloha! Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort is located in, you guessed it, Wailea, with direct access to Mokapu Beach. Andaz Maui is located just down the street from the famous Grand Wailea on Wailea Alanui Drive. Andaz Maui isn’t your typical Hawaiian resort. This resort offers 300 guest rooms including 29 villas and 35 suites, but it still has a very boutique and upscale feel.

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort offers plush accommodations, sweeping views of the ocean, a fantastic spa, boutique shops and award-winning dining options including Morimoto Maui (Iron Chef Morimoto).

If you’re looking for a home away from home that has something to offer for everyone, then look no further than Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort. The Andaz brand brings the local arts, culture and food to their properties and Andaz Maui is no exception. Whether you’re looking for a place to rest after a day of adventure on the island of Maui or if you’re looking for a place to relax, you won’t be disappointed with Andaz Maui.

This review is based on our personal stay in February of 2021. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at Andaz Maui, book through Live Luxe Travel Co. to take advantage of exclusive Hyatt Privé benefits like a confirmed room upgrade (if available, confirmed within 24 hours of booking), $100 resort credit, daily breakfast and a welcome amenity. And for a limited time get the fifth night free combined with Hyatt Privé benefits, valid for stays from until December 20, 2023. See all Hyatt Privé offers here.

Our Room

Now to talk about those plush accommodations. We stayed in an Ocean View Suite in the Makai tower which offered an incredible view of the three cascading infinity pools and the ocean.

The Ocean View Suites are true one bedroom suites with a door that separates the bedroom from the living area. The living area features a half-bathroom, a desk, a dining table, wet bar and a small living area. The bedroom features a small sitting area, and a king size bed.

It’s worth noting that all the rooms and suites at Andaz Maui have lights and blinds that are operated by smart switches located throughout the room including next to the bed.

Andaz Hotels & Resorts are known for their approachable luxury lifestyle elements and that is no different at Andaz Maui. The accommodations feature a soothing neutral palette and modern wood furnishings.

Our Ocean View Suite featured a half-bath which is good if you are entertaining friends or have family staying on the sofa-bed. The ensuite featured a separate water closet equipped with a Toto Washlet toilet seat (in an effort to be more environmentally friendly). The bathroom also had a large walk-in shower that is pretty open unless you want to slide the curtain closed around the shower. The shower had a large rain head and a handheld wand. And lastly our bathroom had a large free standing soaking tub.

Andaz Maui at Wailea features Mālie toiletries in the koke’e scent which combines organic aloe, coconut and ginger.

If you’re looking for more space to spread out, read our review of the new Ilikai Villas from our stay in May of 2021.

Amenities

When you think of a beach vacation, it probably means something different to you than it does to someone else. If you want to swim, Andaz Maui has three tiered pools, a shallow pool walk-in pool (where kids and families usually spend time), and an adults-only pool.

If you’re looking for a place to get your zen on then look no further than ‘awili spa and salon. Awili spa offers separate men’s and women’s facilities with a jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. The steam room was closed during our stay in February due to COVID-19 restrictions. During our stay we enjoyed massages one afternoon which were quite relaxing.

During our experience at the spa, it’s safe to say that the spa staff was taking COVID very seriously and offered us hand sanitizer before our massages and the therapists wore a facial covering during the duration of the massage.

If you like to live a life in balance and workout during vacation, the fitness center at Andaz Maui has plenty of cardio equipment including 3 treadmills, 3 ellipticals, 3 Peloton bikes, plenty of free weights and strength training machines. The safety and cleanliness protocols taking place all over the resort and especially at the gym were very thorough. During one of our workouts an attendant came in to spray gym equipment with electrostatic disinfectant. Masks are required during the duration of your workout, which if you aren’t comfortable with that there are a lot of places to get a great workout outside.

Andaz also has a surf shack on the beach where you can rent watersports equipment such as snorkel gear, kayaks, paddleboards and more. And if you’re looking for a guided adventure, they can help with that too.

Dining

Perhaps one of the best parts of staying at Andaz Maui is the proximity to some of Maui’s best restaurants including Ka’ana Kitchen, Bumbye Beach Bar and Morimoto’s.

Ka’ana Kitchen is Andaz Maui’s main restaurant that is open for breakfast and dinner. This is where the Hyatt Prive and Globalist breakfast is served. And if you’re lucky enough to have breakfast included, it’s about a $50 value per person, per day. Breakfast at Ka’ana is buffet style and due to COVID-19, it’s an assisted buffet to minimize the number of surfaces that guests touch.

The breakfast buffet features a hot food station with pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, scrambled eggs, an assortment of breakfast meats and a few dishes that change each day. The buffet also has a fruit and charcuterie station and a selection of fresh bakery items including toast, bagels, muffins and more.

One day for lunch we had Bumbye Beach Bar. This is the same menu that is served poolside or at the bar. Our lunch started off with the poke. Then for our main course we tried the lobster grilled cheese & waffle fries and the burger, both which were excellent. The cocktails including the Wailea Spritz are also excellent.

For dinner we ate at Ka’ana Kitchen and we will be the first to tell you to order the Fried Chicken with Jalapeno cornbread! It’s seriously so good!

During our stay we didn’t dine at Morimoto Maui just because we were only in Maui for 3 nights, but this famed restaurant was started by Iron Chef Massiruh Morimoto who you may have seen on Food Network.

And lastly Andaz Maui has Mokapu Market where guests can grab a snack, a bottle of wine, specialty coffee drinks and gelato for a cool treat. And the market has local island made foods, treats and souvenirs. Mokapu Market is typically open 24/7 during normal times but due to COVID are running some temporary hours.

Service

The service at Andaz Maui truly makes you feel like you are family. The bell staff, front desk agents, house keepers, servers and everyone else we encountered made sure to say aloha to us.

The staff is very attentive and truly makes an effort to get to know you during your stay.

How are they handling COVID?

Traveling in February of 2021 and during COVID was definitely different, but one of the main reasons that we wanted to visit Hawaii was because of the protocols and procedures that Hawai’i put into place. In order for us to visit Maui we had to have a negative COVID-19 test, we had to download the AlohaSafe Alert App (for contact tracing), and we had to create a trip on the Safe Travels Hawaii website. Knowing that travelers have spent the time and money to go through these extra steps and have been recently tested definitely gives you a little bit of peace of mind.

Masks were required throughout the entire Andaz Maui Resort unless you were eating or drinking, were in the pool or were sitting by the pool.

Andaz Maui is adhering to all state and local government regulations. All employees were wearing masks, there were hand sanitizer dispensers all over the resort and the staff was there to give gentle reminders to wear a facial covering.

Overall Impression

Some resorts feel like you could pick them up, move them to another destination and you wouldn't even know where you were at. Andaz Maui at Wailea has a very authentic feel to it and truly makes you feel like you are in Hawaii the way the resort is perched to overlook the ocean.

This luxury resort is the perfect spot for a family getaway, couples getaway, honeymoon, or a friends trip.

Everything from the accommodations to the food to the staff, our entire experience at Andaz Maui was nothing short of Mahalo!

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Andaz Maui with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Hyatt Privé partnership, you’ll receive a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade and a welcome amenity.

Hyatt Centric Las Olas Fort Lauderdale Review

Our Verdict

Hyatt Centric Las Olas Fort Lauderdale Review

When most people think of a hip escape in Florida they think of Miami. But if you’re looking for something a little quieter than Miami, then you need to check out the Hyatt Centric Las Olas in downtown Fort Lauderdale. This stunning hotel is located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s Riverfront District in close proximity to the city’s top restaurants, nightlife, shopping and attractions. And it’s only a short drive to explore seven miles of sand and surf at Fort Lauderdale Beach.

This boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale features 238 destination-centric luxury rooms and suites that overlook the city skyline.

Hyatt Centric Las Olas offers luxury accommodations, a rooftop pool, on-site restaurant, and a great fitness center. It’s the perfect starting point for you to go and explore all that Fort Lauderdale has to offer.

This review is based off of our personal stay in January of 2021. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at Hyatt Centric Las Olas, book through Hyatt Privé to take advantage of exclusive complimentary extras like a confirmed room upgrade (confirmed within 24 hours, if available), $25 hotel credit, daily breakfast and a welcome amenity. To request Hyatt Privé rates, just visit liveluxetravelco.com/hyatt-prive.

And as a Live Luxe Travel Co. client, you’ll also receive complimentary use of a Peloton bike in your guest room (normally a $25 charge) along with a chilled towel and sparkling water.

Hyatt Centric Las Olas is the first new hotel to be developed in Fort Lauderdale in over 50 years. And let us be the first to tell you that you won’t be disappointed staying here.

Our Room

During our stay at Hyatt Centric Las Olas, we were upgraded to a Centric Suite due to low occupancy rates during our stay. Even though we were able to enjoy a suite during our stay, it’s worth noting that all guest rooms have Hyatt Grand Bed’s, a 55” flat-screen TV, blackout curtains, floor to ceiling windows, robes & slippers, a coffeemaker and a mini fridge.

The Centric Suite was the perfect place to kick back in 733 square feet with a balcony, living room, a work desk, 1.5 baths and city views.

The Centric Suite is a true one bedroom suite that offers a separate living room and bedroom. The living room features a sleeper sofa, Keurig, mini fridge, work desk, a TV and a powder bath. One thing that was really impressive were the controls in the room. There were buttons on the wall in every room to control the lights, sheer curtains and black out shades. Nothing like the convince of the touch of a button.

The bathroom in our suite was quite spacious. The layout was a little different as the closet, ironing board, toilet and shower were all in one room that is separated from the bedroom via a sliding barn door.

The Hyatt Centric Las Olas features BeeKind toiletries which combines honey with certified organic extracts of red clover, calendula, lemongrass and camomile.

Amenities

The Hyatt Centric Las Olas is a small boutique property, but it also didn’t lack when it came to amenities. The rooftop pool and fitness center are located on the 8th floor and both were very spacious.

The rooftop is the perfect place to float, swim, kick back with a drink from the rooftop bar, or the perfect place to energize yourself and focus with a morning yoga session.

The fitness center is open 24-hours and offered plenty of cardio equipment, free weights and an area to do yoga and stretch. There was plenty of sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer in the gym which is nice in today’s world. And if you’re into cycling, you’re in luck because Hyatt Centric Las Olas has Peloton Bikes.

Dining

Hyatt Centric Las Olas features one main restaurant, Harborwood, located in the lobby + ELEV8 pool bar located on the 8th floor. Harwood + Harwood Bar is one of the hot spots in downtown Fort Lauderdale. This space really allows the outdoors to be brought in when the weather is nice with doors that open up to Las Olas Boulevard.

During our stay we dined at Harborwood for breakfast and for an afternoon snack. This modern American restaurant is the perfect place for people-watching, soaking in the downtown views, indulging in savory bites and enjoying a hand-crafted cocktail.

For breakfast we had the All-American Breakfast, a 3 Egg Omelet and a blueberry muffin. Both main dishes at breakfast were excellent. And Hyatt Centric Las Olas serves one of our favorite coffee roasters, Panther Coffee.

And for a snack we had the Argentinian Pulled Chicken Empanadas and Roasted Cauliflower. You have got to try both of these appetizers. The empanadas are homemade by the chef and were quite tasty.

And last but not least, we got a sneak peek during our stay at one of Hyatt Centric Las Olas’s newest amenities, Room 901, a prohibition inspired speak easy.

This guest room converted into a secret speakeasy happens to come with a bartender-in-residence program that gives back to the food and beverage industry. This will allow bar’s from around the world to keep their legacy alive through a pop-up event at Room 901.

Room 901 is set to open on February 12th and first up for the bartender-in-residency program is the famed Washington D.C. speakeasy, The Gibson. The 901 can be reserved as a private experience for up to six guests at a time and is bookable by reservation only. To book, guests can email 901@hyatt.com or by visiting the bar’s website. There is a minimum of $50 per person, with a one-hour minimum for 1-2 guests and a two-hour minimum for 3-6 guests. Upon reserving the speakeasy, guests receive a password to give at the front desk in exchange for an unmarked key to room 901. Just make sure to knock twice or you may not get in.

Service

While Hyatt Centric Las Olas isn’t a 5-star property, the service provided at check-in, at Harborwood, by valet and everyone else we encountered was top notch.

Service by the front-desk agents was very quick efficient and helpful. And the service provided at Harborwood was prompt.

How are they handling COVID?

How is Hyatt Centric Las Olas handling COVID? They are following all state and local government regulations and Hyatt’s Global Care & Cleanliness Commitment. Hyatt Centric Las Olas first opened their doors in June of 2020, so they are no strangers to enhanced safety and cleaning protocols.

All employees were wearing masks, there were hand sanitizing stations located in the lobby, throughout the property and in the elevators.

There were plexiglass partitions up at the front desk to protect guests and staff during the check-in process. And if you’re like us we used the mobile check-in option in the World of Hyatt app to minimize contact necessary during check-in.

Overall Impression

If you’re looking to experience the best that Fort Lauderdale has to offer, then book yourself a stay at Hyatt Centric Las Olas. The location here gives you access to the best shopping, restaurants, museums, and more!

This was our first Hyatt Centric stay and after the experience at Hyatt Centric Las Olas, it certainly won’t be our last.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Hyatt Centric Las Olas with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Hyatt Privé partnership, you’ll receive a $25 hotel credit to use on dining, daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade, welcome amenity and complimentary use of a Peloton bike in your room with sparkling water and chilled towel.

Thompson Zihuatanejo Review

Our Verdict

Thompson Zihuatanejo Review

Looking for a luxurious place to stay that’s off the beaten path? You’ve found it at Thompson Zihuatanejo, Beach Resort. Thompson Zihuatanejo is located on Playa La Ropa, the premier swimming beach of Mexico’s Pacific Coast. And this refined luxury beach resort is not your typical Zihuatanejo-Ixtapa hotel or resort experience. In fact, this boutique property will make you never want to stay at a large resort ever again.

Thompson Zihuatanejo features luxury accommodations on one of the most sought after beaches in Mexico, an adults-only pool, a family pool, an intimate spa (currently being renovated), fine dining and the best place to watch the sunset.

This review is based off of our personal stay in December of 2020. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at Thompson Zihuatanejo, book through Live Luxe Travel Co. to take advantage of exclusive Hyatt Privé benefits like a confirmed room upgrade (if available, confirmed within 24 hours of booking), $100 resort credit, daily breakfast and a welcome amenity. And for a limited time get the third night free combinable with Hyatt Privé benefits, valid for stays from January 20, 2021 to October 31, 2021. See all Hyatt Privé offers here.

If you’re looking for a luxurious escape and want to enjoy relaxing mornings while enjoying a freshly brewed cup of coffee and homemade pastries, a place to get in a great workout, a place to soak up the sun, eat delicious food and whatever else your heart desires, you’ve found it at Thompson Zihuatanejo.

Our Room

Now to the good part! During our stay at Thompson Zihuatanejo we stayed in a 2 Bedroom Beach Suite. And are you ready for the best part….you can walk out the door of your room, take 10 steps across the patio and be walking on the beach. Our Beach Suite made for the perfect place to really enjoy all that Playa La Ropa has to offer.

The Beach Suites have incredible indoor and outdoor living spaces, a small plunge pool, and the best part is you are so close to the beach and to the relaxing sound of crashing waves.

While we stayed in a 2 Bedroom Beach Suite, it is worth noting that all of the rooms and suites at Thompson Zihuatanejo come standard with the following amenities: custom Egyptian cotton bedding, cotton kimono bathrobes, slippers & beach towels, Thompson DS & Durga luxury soaps & shampoos, rain showers, gourmet mini bar, bluetooth speakers, in-room safe and flat-screen TVs.

Thompson Hotels & Resorts are known for their mid-century styling and that is no different at Thompson Zihuatanejo. The accommodations feature touches of parota woods, brass details, Mexican artworks and Oaxacan clay light fixtures, which all come together to create the perfect balance of old-world and new in the 56 guestrooms and suites.

Our 2 Bedroom Beach Suite had 2 bedrooms, each with their own living area and bathroom, making for the perfect place for a friends getaway. The rooms are separated by a large sliding wood door that could be left open to make a bigger space to spend time together or closed to offer privacy.

Each bathroom in our suite had an oversized vanity and shower and featured a sperate water closet.

Amenities

While beach vacations look different for almost everyone, one thing to note is that Thompson Zihuatanejo sits on Playa La Ropa Beach, one of Mexico’s most swimmable beaches. As you may have read some of our other hotel reviews such as Viceroy Los Cabos, The Cape - A Thompson Hotel or Solaz Los Cabos, none of these resorts sit on beaches that you can actually enjoy swimming.

As mentioned earlier, the spa at Thompson Zihuatanejo is currently being renovated which means they have a temporary spa setup in a couple of suites near Ceniza (the fine dining restaurant) and the family pool. The intimate makeshift spa is quite nice. During our stay we enjoyed massages and could hear the sound of waves crashing which made for a relaxing experience.

One of the therapists we spoke to at the spa has been with the property for over 18 years. And if you know anything about spas, this makes for fantastic treatments. People who have been with a property for a long time come to know the guests who come back year after year and are very good at what they do.

During our experience at the spa, it’s safe to say that the spa staff was taking COVID very seriously and offered us hand sanitizer before our massages and the therapists wore a facial covering during the duration of the massage.

Whether or not you like to exercise while on vacation is up to you, but Thompson Zihuatanejo has a great air-conditioned gym. The gym did require that we had reservations each day to limit the number of guests trying to utilize the gym at the same time and so they could clean in between guests. We have stayed at other resorts who have been doing this during COVID and can really appreciate them providing a safe place for guests to enjoy working out. The gym has an elliptical, a Peloton bike, dumbbells, and a couple of cable machines.

If you like to run, the beach makes for a great place to get those miles in. And if you like to do yoga, there are lots of outdoor areas to find peace and serenity.

Dining

Under the direction of Executive Chef Miguel Baltazar, Thompson Zihuatanejo’s two restaurants Ceniza (wood-fired cuisine with a menu crafted daily from fresh local ingredients) and Hao (Zihuatanejo bar featuring all-day-menu and seasonal cocktails) make for the perfect place to indulge your palette.

During our stay breakfast was served on the weekends at Hao and during the week at Ceniza. Even while at Ceniza, the breakfast menu remains the same breakfast menu from Hao.

Since we stayed for a week, we definitely got to try several items from the breakfast menu including Chilaquiles, Rancho Troncones, Zihua Benedicts, Surf Champion’s Breakfast, and Steak & Eggs. And the longer we stayed the decision didn’t become any easier, all of the items we tried for breakfast were delicious. A couple things we really enjoyed about the Privé breakfast that was included was that it comes with coffee, choice of fresh juice, a fruit bowl, fresh baked pastries and your choice of entree.

And another thing that makes Thompson Zihuatanejo special is that each morning around 7:20 am, a basket of traditional Spanish pastries and a freshly brewed pot of coffee would show up outside the door to our room. This made for very relaxing and indulgent mornings.

On Saturday nights, the resort does a taco experience and let’s taco-bout how incredible it was. Taco night consisted of lobster, octopus, pork pibil and short rib authentic tacos which are served with handmade rolled tortillas on the beach. We can tell you from first hand experience, the whole meal is incredible. And to finish off your meal, it includes fresh made churros or cookies & cream tacos for dessert.

If you love trying new food, you’re going to want to sign-up for a cooking experience with Chef Miguel. We opted to do the cooking class one afternoon of our stay and made it into an early dinner.

The cooking experience usually starts with going into Zihuatanejo to the market to pick out the freshest ingredients and fish. Due to COVID, we weren’t able to go into town and go to the fish market, but chef did that part for us. So our cooking class began on the beach with this amazing market setup for us to select fresh ingredients from.

The menu for your cooking experience can be tailored to accommodate food allergies and sensitivities as it was for our group.

Welcome to Brandon’s Fish Market where Chef brought to us fish caught just hours before. For our experience we prepared citrus salt that was used in all of the following dishes we made: Trendy Guacamole, Tiritas Ceviche, Tuna Tiradito, Grilled Catch of the Day and Papaya Quinoa Salad.

Holy guacamole was never so fitting. One person in our group didn’t like guacamole and after trying this guacamole, that changed.

This hands on culinary experience was by far our favorite thing we did on the trip. Chef guides you through each recipe and leaves it up to you to be creative and to use your own technique.

We’re not sure which dish we made was the best because it all paired so well together to create flavors of sweet, salty, bitter, sour and umami.

Service

Be prepared to be treated like family when you stay at Thompson Zihuatanejo. This boutique resort feels very intimate and the service matches that. The staff is very attentive to your every whim and truly gets to know you throughout your stay.

How are they handling COVID?

While traveling looks much different in 2020, we felt extremely safe and healthy at Thompson Zihuatanejo. The resort was following all of Hyatt’s Global Care and Cleanliness Commitment.

Thompson Zihuatanejo is adhering to all state and local government regulations. All employees were wearing masks, there were hand sanitizer dispensers all over the resort and the staff was there to give gentle reminders to wear a facial covering.

And one of the biggest reasons we felt safe here was because of the size of the resort. With government regulations only allowing for 30-40% occupancy during our stay the resort was very quiet and not very crowded which made for a safe and enjoyable getaway.

And also to let you know how serious Thompson Zihuatanejo was taking COVID, upon arrival and exiting of the resort you had to have your temperature taken.

Overall Impression

Zihuatanejo might be off the beaten path and at times a little challenging to get to with flight schedules, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth the trip. The Thompson Zihuatanejo is a hidden gem. This luxury resort is the perfect spot for a family getaway, couples getaway, honeymoon, or a friends trip.

From the accommodations to the food to the staff, our entire experience at Thompson Zihuatanejo was nothing short of perfecto.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Thompson Zihuatanejo with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Hyatt Privé partnership, you’ll receive a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade and a welcome amenity.

Grand Hyatt Nashville Review

Our Verdict

Grand Hyatt Nashville Review

While the Grand Hyatt Nashville might be the newest hotel to open in Music City, it sure doesn’t lack when it comes to the history and heritage this property pays to the city. The hotel is located on Broadway at the new Nashville Yards development that is within walking distance to the Gulch and Midtown. And one of the best features of the new Grand Hyatt Nashville is that they have the highest rooftop bar in the city.

The Grand Hyatt Nashville offers luxury accommodations, a spa, seven food and beverage experiences and is located close to all that Nashville has to offer.

This review is based off of our personal stay in October of 2020. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at the Grand Hyatt Nashville, book through Hyatt Privé to take advantage of exclusive complimentary extras like a confirmed room upgrade (confirmed within 24 hours, if available), $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast and a welcome amenity. To request Hyatt Privé rates, just visit liveluxetravelco.com/hyatt-prive.

And don’t miss this exclusive 3rd night free offer to Live Luxe Travel Co. clients. Must book by March 31, 2021 for stays between January 1, 2021 - June 30, 2021. See all Hyatt Privé offers here.

If you are looking for a grand experience in Nashville, look no further than the Grand Hyatt Nashville. This area of the lobby is made to look like a box car of a train paying heritage to the Nashville Rail Yard.

From the moment you drive up to the front of the hotel, to that first step foot inside the expansive lobby, your experience will be nothing short of grand, especially with the use of luxurious stone, hardwood and metals that you will find throughout the hotel.

Our Room

During our stay at Grand Hyatt Nashville, we were upgraded to a Grand Corner King Suite due to low occupancy rates during our stay. While we might have had a suite for our stay, it’s worth noting that all 591 guest rooms including 55 suites have hardwood floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, flat-screen TVs, blackout curtains and BALMAIN bath amenities.

The Grand Corner King suite offers incredible views of the city while surrounding you in luxurious accommodations.

The Grand Corner King Suite is a true one bedroom suite that offers a bedroom equipped with a door and a separate living area. The living area features a Nespresso, a flat-screen TV and a mini fridge.

The bathroom in our suite was stunning and offered incredible views of the city. The floor to ceiling windows in the bathroom gave it plenty of natural light. And if you’re worried about privacy, the bathroom had shades that came down with the push of a button. Our only complaint was that the sun coming through the window can make the bathroom get quite warm.

Amenities

Unlike the Thompson Nashville (read our review from July of 2020) , the Grand Hyatt Nashville does have an incredible rooftop pool located on the fifth-floor.

Whether you want to enjoy a leisurely swim, or lounge in the sun, the rooftop deck offers panoramic views of Broadway and downtown Nashville.

The fifth-floor is known as the lifestyle level which features the outdoor pool, sundeck, fitness center, spa and pool-side restaurant, Solstice.

The fitness center is open 24-hours and offered plenty of cardio equipment, free weights and an area to do yoga and stretch. And there were bottles of Fiji water for you to enjoy during your workout, which we thought was an extremely nice touch!

Dining

You’ll find no shortage of restaurants to enjoy at Grand Hyatt Nashville. There are 7 food and beverage experiences on-property including The Continental (signature dining experience from Chef Brock), The Nashville Grange (“Tennessee to table” menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner), Aurum (lobby lounge with small bites, craft cocktails and local brews), Hummingbird Coffee Market (coffee, grab-and-go, pastries, muffins and sweet treats), Solstice (healthy food served on the fifth-floor pool deck), Lou|Na (rooftop bar), Grand Club Lounge (for Club-level guests) and Room Service.

The Grand Club wasn’t yet open due to the pandemic, but we did have the opportunity the see the space and it’s gorgeous.

While Hummingbird coffee was open, we didn’t have a chance to visit during this stay, so it’s on our list to check our next time.

During our stay we did have the opportunity to dine at The Nashville Grange for breakfast and dinner. This farm-to-table inspired restaurant offers incredible views of famed Broadway, nearby Union Station and the city. The cuisine at Nashville Grange is best described as southern flavor with a modern twist.

For dinner we had the savory monkey bread, R&R Radishes and the Carrot Ravioli to share with the table. All of which were delicious. You have to try the Carrot Ravioli!

For the main course we tried the Joyce Farm Chicken, the Fennel Rub Pork Chop and the Atlantic Halibut, all of which were so fresh and very flavorful!

And we finished off our meal with Chess Pie (a true Southern-inspired dessert).

For breakfast at Nashville Grange, we enjoyed the biscuits which are an absolute must! And for the main part of breakfast we tried the 2 Eggs Your Way, the TN Omelet and the Eggs Benedict which were all fantastic.

One of our favorite things about Grand Hyatt Nashville is the rooftop bar Lou|Na. Lou|Na plays heritage to the Louisville & Nashville rail lines that passed directly through the site of the Grand Hyatt for over a century. The rooftop as we mentioned earlier is the highest rooftop bar in Nashville and it offers incredible food, drinks and nightlife.

Lou|Na has a DJ on the weekends and their indoor and outdoor spaces make for the perfect place to hangout with friends, take your significant other out for a night on the town or to host a celebration.

The cocktails at Lou|Na are crafted with perfection. We tried the Message in a Bottle, Moxie Dewdrop, and the Wild at Heart.

Service

The service that the team at Grand Hyatt Nashville provided was 5-star through and through. The bell staff was great helping us unload our car, getting us checked-in and up to our suite.

The friendly, knowledgeable and helpful staff was always eager and willing to assist with our every request. When you stay at a luxury property you expect a certain level of service, and that was no exception at Grand Hyatt Nashville.

How are they handling COVID?

How is Grand Hyatt Nashville handling COVID? They are following all state and local government regulations and Hyatt’s Global Care & Cleanliness Commitment. Since the Grand Hyatt Nashville opened its doors during the pandemic they were prepared from their very first day to make sure guests have a safe, healthy and memorable stay.

All employees were wearing masks and the bell staff were also wearing rubber gloves which they were changing after each encounter with a guests vehicle or luggage.

There were plexiglass partitions up at the front desk to protect guests and staff during the check-in process. And if you’re like us we used the mobile check-in option in the World of Hyatt app to minimize contact necessary during check-in.

From the lobby to the elevator lobby to the restaurants, gym, pool deck and everywhere else you can think of there were hand sanitizing stations.

Overall Impression

If you’re looking for new digs that surround you in luxury while getting a history lesson, then the Grand Hyatt Nashville is a place you need to experience. And the location of this property gives you easy access to all of the great areas of Nashville without getting caught in Downtown Nashville traffic.

The service, the food and the accommodations made for an incredible stay for us. We even expected a few kinks from a property that was so new, but we didn’t experience any glitches or service failures. In fact, this might be a bold statement, but this is likely one of the best Grand Hyatt properties we’ve ever stayed at.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Grand Hyatt Nashville with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Hyatt Privé partnership, you’ll receive a $100 hotel credit to use on dining, daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade and a welcome amenity.

Viceroy Los Cabos Review

Our Verdict

Viceroy Los Cabos Review

Viceroy Los Cabos located in San José del Cabo and is like no other place on earth. The architecturally stunning concept by Miguel Angel Aragonés lures you into a quiet state of mind with its cinematic views and striking architecture around every turn. The guest rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies where you can rest, relax and recharge.

Viceroy Los Cabos is a luxury beachfront resort that features modern accommodations, plenty of dining options, a holistic spa and an incredible rooftop bar & restaurant.

This review is based off of our personal stay in September of 2020. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at Viceroy Los Cabos, book through Live Luxe Travel Co. to take advantage of exclusive complimentary extras like a room upgrade (subject to availability at check-in), $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast and a welcome amenity.

If you are looking for luxurious accommodations with access to everything you need without leaving the resort, than look no further than Viceroy Los Cabos.

Our Room

During our stay at Viceroy Los Cabos, we stayed in a Resort View King Bed guest room. These rooms are located in the main building of the resort and offer sweeping views of the entire resort toward the beach. It’s worth noting that all guest rooms have outdoor patios or balconies.

All of the guest rooms have voice automated guest engagement through Alexa, Smart TVs, Nespresso coffee machines, adjustable dimmer and mood lighting, automated sheers and blackout curtains and rainfall showers.

While the rooms might seem a bit on the smaller side, they are very functional and comfortable. The outdoor living space is meant to be an extension of your room with glass sliding doors that separate the open air from your air conditioned escape.

The layout of this bathroom isn’t your typical bathroom. Everything was very simplistic and compartmentalized. We absolutely loved having the closet next to the vanity as it made getting ready very easy. And we can’t forget to mention the extra large shower with 2 shower heads.

Amenities

If you’re looking for a luxury resort in Cabo with plenty of amenities look no further than Viceroy Los Cabos. On property there is an amazing spa, fitness center, several pools, a great beach and a movie theater.

The SPA at Viceroy Los Cabos is an 11,000 square foot modern and luxurious full-service spa with plenty of amenities. The spa amenities include locker rooms with sauna, shared facilities that include a vitality pool, hot Jacuzzi, cold Jacuzzi, thermal loungers, ice fountain, sauna, steam room and more.

During our stay at Viceroy Los Cabos we did experience The SPA and it was so relaxing! Visiting any spa during COVID can be a different experience just because of having to wear a mask, etc but we were really impressed at the way The SPA handled everything from the electronic check-in that included a health questionnaire, the staff wearing masks and having hand sanitizer readily available.

If health and wellness is a focus for you even while on vacation then you’re going to love The GYM at Viceroy Los Cabos. This is probably one of the biggest and nicest hotel gyms we have ever used. The GYM features cardiovascular equipment, Hoist Roc-It strength equipment, weight racks, spin bikes, bootcamp – circuit fitness room and an adult jungle gym (motion cage powered by cables and weights).

Dining

Prepare for the ultimate culinary experience while staying at Viceroy Los Cabos. With 5 food and beverage outlets to choose from you’re sure to find exactly what you’re craving. During our stay we enjoyed breakfast each day at Casero Restaurant which is the resort’s main restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

And the breakfast is not your average breakfast. The breakfast menu includes everything from your typical American breakfast (eggs, your choice of breakfast meat and potatoes), to things like Fluffy Japanese Pancakes, Chilaquiles, Eggs Benedict and more.

Our favorites were the Chilaquiles, Eggs Benedict and the Designer Omelet. And you must try the pastries with your morning coffee.

We also enjoyed tacos one afternoon at the pool from the pool menu. And when we say tacos, these were bougie tacos that were steak served in cheese crusted tortillas.

As they say when in Rome…when at Viceroy Los Cabos you must dine at Cielomar Rooftop for the ultimate dining experience. The food is great, the views are better and it offers Los Cabos nightlife.

The menu at Cielomar has pizza, steak, seafood and more. We enjoyed the Organic Chicken and the Prime New York Striploin and both were delicious.

And sometimes you just need to have a kick back meal in your room and that is something in-room dining at Viceroy Los Cabos can deliver on. One night we didn’t feel like going to dinner so we ordered burgers and fries from room service. The burgers were some of the best burgers we have ever ate.

Service

When you stay at a 5-star property you expect 5 star service and that is exactly what you will find at Viceroy Los Cabos. All of the staff we encountered was friendly, knowledgeable, helpful and prompt.

How are they handling COVID?

Like any hotel stay in 2020, it looks a little different than pre-COVID. Viceroy Hotels launched Viceroy’s Promise of Cleanliness which is a complete health and safety plan to help keep guest colleagues and communities safer.

Viceroy Los Cabos is adhering to all state and local government regulations and Viceroy’s Promise of Cleanliness. All employees were wearing masks, there were hand sanitizer dispensers all over the resort and there was signage and markings on the floor in all common areas to encourage social distancing.

In fact when we arrived at Viceroy Los Cabos before we were permitted inside the resort, we had to have our temperatures taken with a touchless thermometer. And or luggage was taken from us to be disinfected.

Overall Impression

There are plenty of luxury resorts to stay at in Cabo, but there is nothing quite like Viceroy Los Cabos. This stunning sanctuary makes the perfect place for a couples getaway or family vacation as there is something for everyone.

The accommodations, the food, and the staff, made for a flawless stay, even while traveling during these unprecedented times.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Viceroy Los Cabos with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our partnership, you’ll receive a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade and a welcome amenity.