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It’s that time of year again… Zales commercials proliferate the television, prodding men everywhere to pop the question this holiday season, and if the sights of back-to-school promotions in July are any indication, we’ll likely see Valentine’s Day decorations just as Santa delivers his last toy. How does this tie into being a travel agent?
Well, it’s the season of romance, which means you need to be up to speed on the best suites for your client’s romantic rendezvous--whether it be to pop the question, elope or just spend a secluded weekend away. For your consideration, we’ve selected a few popular choices in Paris and London, all of which have been recently renovated.
Paris is synonymous with romance, so we’ve chosen to highlight two suites that are sure to put every couple in the mood for love. The Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme recently invested 5 million euros to create two new Presidential Suites--The Imperial Suite and The Vendôme Suite--and to expand its spa. In fact, the spa expansion has gone as far as into these two suites. Both offer massage areas (which we’re told are perfect for couple’s massages) and bathrooms boast a balneotherapy hot tub and hammam shower. The concept, already a hit in Park Hyatt hotels in Asia, already is in high demand in Paris.
Other amenities include meals personally prepared by Executive Chef Jean-Francois Rouguette, a private barman and personal assistant. Suites begin at 8,000 euro per night (approximately $11,900).
The hotel’s existing Duplex Suite also is currently being refurbished to become a two-floor, balconied space, offering views of the Vendôme column, the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame de Paris.
The Hilton Arc de Triomphe Paris also recently expanded its suite inventory--doubled it, in fact--to a total of 50. Suites range in size from 590 to 807 square feet, spanning three suite categories.
Junior suites offer living rooms and king beds, while the Presidential Suite offers a balcony, living and dining rooms, Jacuzzi, two bathrooms and a view of the Eiffel Tower (pictured here).
All suites are decorated in the Art-Deco style and guests receive complimentary breakfast and refreshments, as well as exclusive access to the hotel’s executive lounge and spa. Rates vary, but start at about 620 euros (approximately $920).
Over in London, The Dorchester has unveiled three new rooftop suites: The Audley, Terrace and Harlequin. All three offer outside terraces that provide views of London and a team of dedicated butlers. All suites are said to be consistent with the original 1930s design of the hotel, with modern amenities.
The one-bedroom Audley Suite consists of a sitting room, cocktail bar, study, dressing room and master bath. From its terrace, guests can see across London to Westminster, to the dome of St. Paul’s and on to Canary Wharf. The suite is priced at 2,400 pounds per night (approximately $4,900).
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The Terrace Suite also is a one-bedroom, offering a fireplace, dining room, living room and bar. Unique features include a bathroom that links directly to the terrace, a master bedroom that extends into a private conservatory and a high-ceilinged octagonal dressing room. The terrace overlooks Hyde Park and features a Zen-like stone waterfall. The suite is priced at 5,000 pounds per night (approximately $10,300).
The Harlequin Suite (pictured), the largest of the three, has a master bedroom, dressing room, dining room, living room and bar. Its terrace also overlooks Hyde Park. Fans of Elizabeth Taylor will be delighted to know that this was where she received the news of her record-breaking deal to star in Cleopatra. The suite is priced at 5,420 pounds per night ($11,100), or 6,000 pounds per night with a second connecting bedroom ($12,350).