Summer is almost here! So many options for summer travel and so little time…  For this blog entry, I would like to get your feedback on where to book my summer holiday.

Every summer I plan a trip to Europe and I typically alternate each year by going to one of my old favorites haunts and then somewhere new the following year.  I have tried some exotic spots, but love the Mediterranean–particularly Italy or France.  My alternating years have worked out well for me.  I know the places I love are there when I want them, but it’s so difficult to find a new spot to fall in love with and explore.

I usually get my fix of France with my annual trip to Cannes for the Cannes Film Festival in May, so Italy naturally seems like the perfect compliment just a month or so later.

 

I wrote about one of my favorite spots, Capri, in a previous blog.  For me, Capri is heaven…I love the people, the beaches, the food, the hotels and the shopping…you name it and I love it in Capri.  I did spend last year’s summer holiday there, so I am thinking somewhere new is on my itinerary for this year.

 

 

 

Truthfully though, there is nothing worse than returning from a trip and wishing I had gone somewhere else.  This has only happened to me a few times and many years ago, but it’s not a great feeling and certainly something I want to avoid this year.

One of the many great things about The Leading Hotels of the World is that the hotels are all special and, in one way or another, they all offer something unique and different.  I do have a sense of comfort knowing I am going to be staying in a fantastic hotel.  However, this leads me back to my initial question…where to go this summer?  Here is where I am researching now, in no particular order.  First on my list is the Rocco Forte Verdura Golf & Spa Resort in Sicily.

I have never been to Sicily, so naturally I want to go and see what everyone is talking about and do some exploring.  I also love all Rocco Forte hotels–all sublime!

And if I am in Sicily, I must see the Hotel Giardino di Costanza.  I have heard it is incredible and there are lots of sites to explore in the area.

So, Sicily does seem to be high on my list, but I have a hankering for Greece over the past few years and have been looking into both Santorini and Mykonos.

The Katikies in Santorini looks like something out of a film set…all white and perched high on the Caldera Cliffs over looking the brilliant blue sea–and a seducitve infinity pool calling my name!

That leaves me with one other possibility on my list: Myconian Imperial Thalasso Spa in Mykonos.    Big decisions…the Myconian has a huge private beach and a world-class spa, not to mention beautiful white-washed private villas.

Hmmmm…please let me know thoughts and advice!

Thank You,

Daniel

The first time I went to Los Angeles I was 12 and I went to visit a friend that had moved there from Boston.  I flew out there during my midwinter break – leaving behind the snow of Boston and landing in the eternal Spring of LA.

I thought my parents were completely crazy not to move there at that very moment.  I could have my bags packed in no time!  Yes, I would have missed my family and friends, but I plotted how I could arrange for loved ones to visit me in California and all would be perfect–a revolving door of house guests (a fun flop house if you will).  The icing on the cake was the moment I swam in my friend’s pool and looked down a cliff to see a neighbor packing up the car to go skiing!   Big Bear was only a few hours away!  Oh how I wanted to move to LA; Sun, skiing, surfing–you name it and it’s there!  My parents thought I was crazy and convinced me that all of California would be in the Pacific one day after some terrible earthquake, and that I would miss my East Coast roots–summers on Martha’s Vineyard, skiing the icy mountains of the North East, etc.  So, I continued on my merry way shoveling snow and bundling up for winter.  Nonetheless, to this very day, I still can’t stand winter.  I can bare it until December, but when the New Year arrives and there are three or sometimes four months of cold, snow, and sleet, I shiver and longingly look back to that first trip to LA.  Lucky for me, I now get to spend a few weeks each winter in LA – a home away from home if you will.  I’m determined to have a snow bird bi-coastal life and consider it a work in progress.

When I’m in LA, I explore as much as possible.  I love to go for long drives and poke around the neighborhoods in which I someday would like to live. I have a ritual of driving to the Pacific Ocean on each trip, and put at least one toe in the water–although the Pacific is always colder than any of my New England beaches.

I’ve outlined some of my favorite LA spots and hope they come in handy for you.

Lunch

1.  Joan’s On Third is my outpost in LA.  Honestly, I’m there for breakfast or lunch almost everyday.  Joan makes the most delicious food and I constantly crave it.  For breakfast, I love the banana french toast and homemade pop tarts.  Lunch is the rosemary maple glazed chicken breast with a Brussels sprouts salad for lunch.  There are loads of amazing take out dishes and there are cafe tables both inside and out for eating –LOVE JOAN’S ON THIRD, we need one in NYC!!!!  8350 West 3rd Street, LA, CA http://www.joansonthird.com

2.  Lemonade is delicious for quick and easy lunch.  There are several outposts with many great menu items.  It is a cool cafeteria style process where one chooses options and they are packed onto your plate.  9001 Beverly Blvd, LA http://lemonadela.com/location/beverly

3.  Soho House is private, but you can either become a member or go as a member’s guest! The rooftop restaurant is gorgeous and it is packed all day and all night.  The views are sensational and it is surprisingly comfy and relaxed.   Soho House West Hollywood, 9200 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, CA  http://www.sohohousewh.com

 

Dinner

1.  The Tower Bar at the Sunset Tower hotel is my absolute favorite restaurant in LA.  The food is delicious, the room is perfectly candle lit and I always bump into friends.  There’s a 1930s vibe with live music and it feels as if Cary Grant, Errol Flynn and Marilyn Monroe could all come strolling in at any moment.  I always have chilled oysters and they have the best omelet with creme fraiche and caviar – and everyone loves the burger.  They recently added an ice cream sundae menu where guests check off the flavors and toppings, etc–yummy!  Tower Bar, 8358 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA http://sunsettowerhotel.com/at-the-tower-bar

2.  Cipriani at Mr. C Beverly Hills is as great as Harry Cipriani in New York or Harry’s Bar in Venice.  I have been a big fan of Cipriani for years and always love my lunches and dinners at the New York restaurants.  A new Cipriani in LA is the icing on thecake!  I  always start with the baked tagliolini and then the chicken curry.  The Bellinis are a must!  The ambiance is beautiful and has the same burled wood and cozy seats as both NYC and Venice.  1224 Beverwil Dr, Los Angeles, CA  http://www.mrchotels.com/beverly-hills/beverly-hills-restaurant.php

3.  The Tasting Kitchen is my latest find.  Yum, yum, yum.  The roasted chicken is perfect and I know roasted chicken doesn’t seem to difficult, but trust me I love roasted chicken and it is hard to find the perfect preparation.  The mussels are a close second–so delicious.  Chef Casey Lane takes simple food to a new level, and that is a compliment.  The only thing basic here are the names of the dishes, and I love simple food cooked to perfection.  1633 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA  http://thetastingkitchen.com/index.html

4.  Giorgio Baldi in Santa Monica reminds me of my Mom’s home cooked Italian food.  The ravioli appetizer is perfecto and they prepare outstanding fresh fish dishes. I adore the butterscotch caramel pudding for dessert.  141 West Channel Road, Santa Monica, CA http://www.giorgiobaldi.us/about.htm

5.  Nobu Malibu is on the sand in Malibu.  The waves crash just feet from your table.  The architecture of the restaurant is gorgeous and the food is Nobu–sublime Japanese!  22706 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA http://www.noburestaurants.com/malibu/experience/introduction/

 

Sites

1.  The Getty Museum is spectacular and the views are as great as the artwork.  http://www.getty.edu/index.html

2.  The Griffith Observatory is also spectacular and free.  Try to go at night and check out the stars… the ones in the sky! http://www.griffithobs.org

3.  The Pacific Coast Highway is just at the end of Sunset Boulevard–literally the end.  It is worth driving to the beach on your first trip to LA.  The Pacific is awesome and I think everyone should put a toe in the water.  If time permits, drive to Malibu and see what all the hype is about.  It is truly a place where billionaires and surfers intermingle in harmony.

4.  You can get close to The Hollywood sign by car.  There are restrictions, but I was surprised how close one can get–check it out…I did a bit of research on Mapquest.

5.  Runyon Canyon is a beautiful spot for a “hike.”  It’s more of a walk up a steep hill than a hike, but the views are great and it is a pretty nice place to be at one with nature in the heart of LA.

6.  LACMA (Los Angles County Museum of Art) is a very cool and hip museum.  Don’t think snoozy European style museum, but cutting edge!  http://www.lacma.org

7.  The Hollywood Bowl opened in the 1920s and is still one of the coolest places to see a performance.  Check out their website before your trip and who knows, maybe you’ll get lucky and one of your favorites will be performing: http://www.hollywoodbowl.com

8.  The shopping in LA is great and easy!  Most stores have valet parking and the natural start is Rodeo Drive, but don’t underestimate how many shopping spots there are in LA.  Starting on Rodeo Drive is smart and a must see even for those that hate shopping.  It is quintessential Beverly Hills–there are stereotypes for a reason!  I love Melrose for shopping and also have found cool stores in the coastal towns.  Keep in mind that shopping in LA from one area to the next takes driving time and there is always some of that famousLA traffic, so just add in a bit of time.  I found this link – it has a bit of everything for shopping and is a perfect tool to develop your shopping strategy; http://www.luxurylink.com/fivestar/los-Angeles/itineraries/7638930-shopping-hotspots-in-los-angeles

 

Enjoy LALA land!

Those who know me, know I love LA.  I call it LALA land because I always have a blast in LA and although NYC is my home, I not so secretly would love to have a foot in LA–or at least a toe.  When I found out that Condé Nast Traveler was throwing a birthday fete for The Leading Hotels of the World, I was keeping my fingers crossed it would happen in my LALA land—and, luckily for me, it did!   So, Oscar and his leading lady, The Leading Hotels of the World, both turn 85 this year and I was thrilled to celebrate their joint birthday party high atop the beautiful rooftop of Mr. C Beverly Hills.

It was a perfect night with the stars out in full force, both in the sky and in the ballroom.

The movie themed bash had multiple screens featuring 85 films in 85 Leading Hotels (my favorites are Goldfinger, Casino Royale and Ocean’s Eleven), there was a fully-loaded concession stand, a vintage popcorn machine (popping away), a photo booth and an over-the-top birthday cake (which I had to help move to a pedestal minutes before the party started–fortunately without dropping it!).

Over 200 guests came to celebrate the birthday bash!

 

Among the leading ladies were Naomi Watts (fingers crossed for her on Oscar night!), Eva Longoria, Minnie Driver, Michelle Monaghan, Giada de Laurentis and Katie Lee.  Happy 85th Birthday Leading Hotels and best wishes to you too Oscar!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tucked into the heart of the Hotel Fouquet’s Barrière is the U Spa.  Hotel Fouquet’s Barrière is an Art Déco masterpiece perched on the corner of the Champs Elysées and Avenue George V and adjacent to the famous Parisian landmark Fouquet’s restaurant (established in 1898).  The hotel opened in 2006 and is comprised of several buildings surrounding a lovely central courtyard.  Jacques Garcia oversaw the design of the hotel and installed sound-proof windows and doors in all rooms and suites (helpful for silencing any Champs Elysées traffic din).  There are many rooms with stunning views of the Arc de Triomphe, Champs Elysées and  – my favorite — the Eiffel Tower.  All rooms feature separate dressing rooms and well-appointed massive bathrooms with flat-screen TVs and waterproof remotes — nice perk!  The hotel also features one of the few Michelin-rated restaurants in Paris, Le Diane, which has large windows that overlook the hotel’s charming courtyard.

Now back to the U Spa — naturally a Leading Spa!  I had the recent pleasure of escaping the cold of Paris and transporting myself to this oasis of tranquility and relaxation.  The U Spa is a 8,600 square foot sleek sanctuary of rich wooden walls, reflective mosaic tiles, dim lighting and crisp white flowing curtains all nestled into a hideaway from the hustle and bustle of The City of Lights. There is a sauna, steam room and seven large treatment rooms–all intimate sanctuaries amidst the larger spa haven.  There are several water therapy pools and one large swimming pool (one of the largest for a Parisian hotel).  The decor is crisp and sleek and the environment is warm and relaxing.  There is even a large relaxation area, adjacent to the pool for napping, reading, or enjoying tea and a snack.   I managed to swim a few laps and swam over to the labyrinth of a water trail that is part of the spa’s balneotherapy regime.

Overlooking the pool area is the sleek and modern fitness center.  It is just the right size and naturally shares the same cool decor vibe as the spa.  There are numerous body rituals in which to partake and the staff is very helpful in finding the best treatment or treatment processes for one’s needs.  The spa specializes in balneotherapy, and uses Sensai Kanebo International and Cinq Mondes expert massage and treatment techniques.  Parfait!

Whether one has five hours, five days, five weeks or five months in Paris, there is never enough time to see and do everything.   Paris is a city with endless gems to explore; the trouble is that with each turn there are more beautiful views, more unique shops and cultural attractions, and sadly, not more than enough time.

Several years back, I had a few hours layover at Charles de Gaulle and yearned for a Cafe de Flore coffee.  So we packed up a taxi with mountains of luggage, drove to Boulevard Saint-Germain, had the taxi wait and just sat for a coffee and croissant and then drove back, in typical Parisian traffic, to the airport and took off. Crazy? Yes, but worth it!

I usually end up in Paris a few times a year and while I truly love the city in all seasons, I do have to say that spending Thanksgiving in Paris is parfait!  I have spent about ten Thanksgivings in Paris and most Americans ask why another ‘Turkey Day’ in Paris?  Well for one, Parisians and expats alike love the excuse for a big festive Thanksgiving feast and there are always plenty of dinner invitations and options to get my fill of turkey and all the fixings.

 

This past Thanksgiving, I checked into Le Bristol Paris for the first time and was smitten from the minute I arrived.  I’ve been a devotee of the Ritz Paris forever and still can not wait for the doors to reopen, but now have some difficult hotel decisions looming for the future.  I used my Leaders Club Unlimited membership to arrange for a complimentary transfer from the airport to my hotel.  This is my only loyalty card that includes complimentary private car transfers! We were greeted at baggage claim by our driver and whisked to a private spot through a door next to baggage claim and within minutes we were off to Le Bristol.   Upon arrival at the hotel, we were quickly escorted to the perfect Parisian garrett room with views galore and three balconies (including one in the bathroom).  I later found out that the room was used in the movie Midnight in Paris, although it has since been renovated and is a perfect oasis of grays and blues with an enormous bathroom and enough closets for any of my fashionista friends to set up camp for weeks.

The staff of the hotel is what impressed me most.  Each employee interaction was charming and helpful, and most importantly their demeanor was genuine.  Just like one of my other favorite hotels, the equally sublime Hotel Du Cap, Le Bristol is a crown jewel in the Oetker Collection of masterpiece hotels and it has become one of my favorite Leading Hotels of the World.  Le Bristol has a super sleek and brand new La Prairie spa which I loved–try the traditional Russian Baniya treatment!

Also, make certain to bring a bathing suit and swim in the famous swimming pool; made entirely of teak, the shape of the pool is reminiscent of the bow of a sailboat–don’t miss the tromp-l’oeil of Hotel du Cap in the background overlooking the pool!

Chef Eric Frechon’s Epicure is Le Bristol’s magnificent Michelin three-star gastronomic restaurant.  The dining room is always packed and its large windows open on to the largest garden of the Parisian luxury hotels.

There are so many options for everything from sightseeing, to museums, to shopping, to dining, to galleries, to spas and the list goes on – without some framework, the trip may become daunting.  I have listed all of my favorite restaurants and brief descriptions for each below.   Also, research the museums and exhibitions prior to arriving in Paris and then simply ask the concierge to get tickets to the exhibitions you wish to visit – this is a must, otherwise the lines to get tickets will take longer then the viewing of the exhibition.  As for shopping, turn left or right…there are incredible stores galore.  Pick your starting spot and then build your shopping excursion by neighborhood.  Lastly, if this is your first trip to Paris, do see all the major sites.  I know it is a lot to take in, but it is awe inspiring and worth any blisters or aching feet.  Any concierge can make a concise list of the must-see spots and help plan your excision–don’t be shy about asking, this is what they do and a good concierge will know the hidden gems.

Remember, when planning lunch or dinner, always make a reservation!

A la prochaine fois!

LUNCH

Cafe de Flore |  Go anytime – day or night, breakfast or lunch, coffee, snack or late night drink. Great mix of Parisians and fashion people and just about everyone else. Perfect people watching.  http://www.cafe-de-flore.com

Cafe Marly |  A Costes brothers indoor/outdoor cafe at the Louvre – fun for lunch, snacks, etc.  Stunning views of the glass pyramid and always a comfortable place to take a break.  http://www.maisonthierrycostes.com/cafe-marly/accueil

L’Avenue  |  A Costes brothers indoor/outdoor cafe best for lunch. Very fashionable and fun.  Directly across from Dior on Avenue Montaigne (major shopping street with the best luxury shopping) and down the street from one of the most picturesque views of the Eiffel Tower.  During nice weather, the outdoor seating is great.  There is also a cozy upstairs dinning room.  http://www.avenue-restaurant.com

l’Esplanade  |  Located on the corner of Rue Rabert and to the left of Les Invalides.  A chic spot with comfy chairs and delicious food and super cozy.  I love the nems (Vietnamese spring rolls!!!).  http://www.zagat.com/r/cafe-de-lesplanade-le-paris-france?full_content=true

Spring  |  A tiny hidden gem that recently received unbelievable praise from critics.  American chef Daniel Rose creates unique dishes and the pairings in each dish are creative and noteworthy.  Very small and lunch reservations are easier to get than dinner.  http://www.springparis.fr

 

DINNER

Georges  |  Atop the Pompidou Museum. Supper modern, lofty with great views and delicious food.  http://www.centrepompidou.fr/en

Stresa  |  A small, clubby Italian spot which is popular with the celebrities/fashion crowd.  http://www.lestresa.com

L’Ami Louis  |  A famous institution known best for its incredible foie gras and yummy roasted chicken.  Very rustic and authentic.

Bar Mathis |  A small, clubby spot for locals and insiders.  It is tiny and always packed.

Ralph’s  |  In the Ralph Lauren store.   It is incredibly popular with Parisians for lunch or dinner–amazing for a big festive Thanksgiving feast–with all the trimmings.  There is a lovely courtyard with tables for outdoor dining during the warmer months.  http://ralphlaurenstgermain.com

Thiou |  Great Thai restaurant on the Quai D’Orsay.  http://www.thiou.fr

La Societe  |  An uber hot and chic Costes brothers owned restaurant off Boulevard St Germain, just a few doors down from Cafe de Flore.  The room is sexy and dark and the food is delicious–love!  http://www.restaurantlasociete.com

Brasserie Lipp  |  A beloved Parisian institution, just across from Cafe de Flore. Gets older Parisian society, celebs and tourists.

Ferdi   |  A trendy spot known for its burgers.

Kong  |  Very modern and ‘in’ rooftop restaurant with great views and a cool crowd.  http://www.kong.fr

Le Voltaire |  Another Parisian institution good for lunch or dinner. Fashionable restaurant on the Left Bank, that’s been around for ages (lots of designers, fashion people, etc.).

Anahi  |  Popular Argentine hot spot with a huge following from the fashion world–located in Le Marais district.

Fall is the best time to visit Boston.  The weather is crisp, leaves are a flutter with vibrant colors, students are out in force to enjoy the weather before winter hibernation, and fireplaces are roar so all is comfy and cozy.  I visit Boston several times a year to see my family and visit old friends.  I tend to spend most of my time driving from one house to another to visit as many people as I can, and usually in a short window of time.  Because of this, I spend too little time exploring the old haunts and beloved favorites in my hometown.

I’ve lived in New York for many years and tend to compare everywhere and everything to NYC. The fact that delivery of everything is simply a way of life — and if it is not deliverable it is archaic. All restaurants should not stop serving dinner before 10:30 pm, a taxi is available anywhere at any time.   Boston is not New York, but I am realizing that this is a good thing. Boston has the charm of the West Village, the best shopping of any city, outstanding hotels and chefs who specialize in serving sophisticated dishes with a local twist.

I recently snuck into the Taj Boston to spend a few days rediscovering ‘my’ Boston.  For a long time, Boston seemed to change ever so slightly, ever so often.  Yes, a building would be erected and it would fit neatly into the skyline and appear to have always been there.  But now, if feels as if an entirely new city is encapsulated within the old city — new buildings everywhere and with that new…everything! Stores, restaurants, night spots and the list goes on.  The Taj Boston regally sits upon the entrance to The Public Garden and is perfectly situated on the corner of Newbury and Arlington Streets.  For shopping, Newbury Street rivals any shopping street internationally, and is filled with quaint cafes and art garlleries.   The Taj overlooks both the manicured Public Garden, with its famed swan boats, and The Boston Common.   As I approach the Taj there’s a sleek, new Jaguar in front of the hotel, ready to take you throughout the city.   Geographically the city is quite compact and can be explored on foot in a few hours, but the hotel car is there for guests when needed.  The Taj is famous in Boston for its High Tea and it is quite a serene and comfortable time to read the paper or catch up with friends.

The restaurant selection in Boston keeps getting better and better each year.  Here are few of my new favorites:

1.  Chef Barbara Lynch’s Menton.  Lynch has become the most acclaimed chef in Boston and is not only self taught, but incredibly creative with her French and Italian creations.  Menton has an incredibly chic decor to compliment the outstanding food.  Menton, 453 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210 617.737.0099.  www.mentonboston.com

2.  Another feather in Lynch’s cap is her No. 9 Park.  Sitting directly below the State House, overlooking the Boston Common, No. 9 is one of the toughest tables to be had in Boston.  Book early and enjoy.  Like Menton, the decor is chic and also like Menton the food is delicious.   No. 9 Park, 9 Park Street, Boston, MA 02108 617.742.9991 www.no9park.com

3.  Chef Lydia Shire has been serving Bostonians and visitors fabulous food for many years and has only grown her following with each year that passes.  Her outpost Scampo is a favorite of many and the menu is uniquely Italian with both Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences.  Scampo, 215 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, 617.536.2100.  www.scampoboston.com

4.  Toro is a great Tapas bar in the South End.  Toro, 1704 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02118, 617.536.4300.  www.toro-restaurant.com

5.  Coppa has yummy crudos and foie gras–maybe do a bit of extra cardio first.  Coppa, 253 Shawmut Avenue, Boston, MA 02118, 617.301.0902.  www.coppaboston.com

I love the museums of Boston.  They are large enough to feel important, but small enough that you don’t have to get lost for days and days to get through all the rooms.  Here are three favorites and three must see spots.

1.  The Institute of Contemporary Art is new and amazing!   ICA, 100 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA 02210 www.icaboston.org

2.  The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a true gem in Boston.  The museum is intimate and lovely and worth the trip.  It reminds me of The Frick Museum in New York.   Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, 280 The Fenway, Boston, MA 02115.  www.gardnermuseum.org

3.  The Museum of Fine Arts is a majestic spot with incredible works and was a place I loved when I was young.  Sorry for the continual New York references, but this is a bit of a mini Metropolitan Museum.  Museum of Fine Arts, Avenue of the Arts 465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, 617.267.9300, www.mfa.org

 

A few other must see spots:

1.  Boston Common

2.  Freedom Trail

3.  Public Garden

4.  Louisburg Square

5.  Skywalk at the top of the Prudential Center building

6.  Mary Baker Eddy Library Mapparium

7.  Harvard Square

 

Finally…shopping comes to my list.  Boston is a great and convenient shopping city.  Newbury Street is filled with every major designer and Copley Place is just steps away with anyone that might not yet have a store on Newbury.  There are many great stores, but two that stand out are Louis and Alan Bilzerian.  Louis moved its anchor from Newbury Street to the waterfront and has started the move to spread the footprint of Boston shopping to the outskirts of town.  It is now very cutting edge in aesthetic and design–very cool.  Alan Bilzerian is a native Bostonian and has been a purveyor of haute couture for quite some time.  His eye is on the mark and he doesn’t miss.

1.  Louis, 60 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA 02210, 617.262.6100, www.louisboston.com

2.  Alan Bilzerian, 34 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116, 617.536.1001, www.alanbilzerian.com

There are so many perks of living in New York City–the list really is endless.  At the top of my list is our accessibility to the arts–particularity Broadway.  I try to see as many productions as possible and while some are more serious and some are more humorous, I do find that all productions are important to the city and add to the complexity of what makes New York, New York.  I had the immense pleasure of seeing Jessica Chastain in The Heiress and loved her performance, along with everything about the production–the cast, the sets, everything was brilliant!  So, I was very excited that I was able to have The Leading Hotels of the World collaborate with Harry Winston to put together an intimate dinner to honor Jessica and her outstanding performance.

Stars of the fashion, music and the entertainment worlds all looked forward to congratulating Jessica on her debut.  Among the guests that came out to support Jessica were Patti Smith, Debbie Harry, Patricia Clarkson, Christina Ricci, Dan Stevens, Nina Arianda, Gayle King, Hilary Rhoda, Brian Atwood, Fracisco Costa, Georgina Chapman, Katie Lee, Kyle MacLachlin, Andrew Saffir, Olivia Palermo, Johannes Huebl, Rachel Roy, Thakoon Panichgui, Zac Posen and Stefano Tonchi.

 

 

 

 

The chic dinner was held at The Setai Fifth Avenue’s Ai Fiori restaurant and Chef Michael White (same chef as the acclaimed Marea on Central Park South–one of my favorites) prepared a special menu, and event planner Raul Avila transformed the already stunning dinning room into a modern day version of the famous stage set (filling the restaurant with red, magenta and pink peonies and massive arrangements of magnolia branches).

 

Candle light was glowing throughout and all the guests were so excited to see Jessica and congratulate her on her role. The Heiress cast is outstanding and includes Jessica Chastain, David Strathairn, Dan Stevens, Judith Ivey and is directed by Moises Kaufman.  The Heiress opened November 1st and is playing for a limited engagement of 18 weeks at the Walter Kerr Theatre.  Enjoy!

 

 

 

Photography by Billy Farrell Agency

I have loved hotels for as long as I can remember.  As a child, I thought it was revolutionary that I got to stay in rooms that had a stocked refrigerators filled with all the treats I wanted (albeit a minibar–at the time this seemed almost space-age), and the ability to pick up the phone and get things sent to the room at any time–and if there was a pool at the hotel, then that was simply the icing on the cake.  I remember staying at a ski resort when I was about twelve that had an indoor/outdoor pool with a wall that one could swim under, to go from hot to cold–I loved it and thought this was simply the coolest hotel ever.  After hours of back and forth…cold to hot…hot to cold…I was told the “Spa” was closing shortly.  Spa?  I was at a spa?  I then asked the attendant what else the “Spa” had.  There was the obvious, steam and sauna, but they also had a cold plunge, an apres ski lounge and a light therapy room.  The only light therapy I had known of was something about photosynthesis from science class about plants and had no idea I could have light therapy too!  So, here at the age of twelve is where I can trace my first steps into a fondness for spa life!

The next day I skied from dawn until dusk and then raced down to the “Spa,” directly from the slopes.  I didn’t want to miss a minute of neither skiing nor spa time. With my legs burning from skiing, I was now prepared to get in all the benefits before the facility closed for the night.  I limited my indoor/outdoor swim to a mere hour so I could take in the steam and sauna and light therapy room.   Mind you I was only twelve and every posting on the walls noted that no one under 18 should use the facility without supervision; however, I’ve been  6 feet tall since I was twelve, so I guess the staff thought I was older–fine by me!

Now we must fast forward,  more years than I care to admit, and here I am as an adult with the same love of spas and I am off to The Setai Fifth Avenue!

I spent the afternoon at the Auriga Spa at The Setai Fifth Avenue, New York–sublime! Auriga is not only my new favorite spa in NYC, but may possibly be my favorite in the United States.  The facility is over 11,000 square feet and can easily keep you busy–just relaxing for hours. The spa is divided into men’s and women’s sanctuaries for changing, showering, relaxing etc (each with privacy as well as a private steam and sauna).  Then there is a communal area for both men and women with the most incredible Turkish Hammam (which rivals any I have visited in Istanbul) with charcoal and black iridescent mosaics tiles on the floor, walls and ceiling and massive white marble slabs to lay on under a ceiling of tiny twinkling lights cleverly hidden within the tile work to create the most incredible light therapy I have experienced.  In this dimly lit hammam, the ceiling becomes a night sky and lying directly under it is like watching a massive sky filled with shimmering stars.  It is quite a special and unique experience.  This light therapy is very much intentional and ties into Auriga’s celestial theme.

The staff takes a holistic approach to wellness, ensuring your body, mind and spirit are carefully nourished.  “We invite you to travel…transform…transcend. Come tap into the celestial rhythm,” is their mantra.

Auriga’s body therapies are based on the varying energies of the lunar cycle and are meant to not only create an experience ideal for a desired outcome, but to also tap into the phases of the moon and how they relate to our body’s rhythm.   Allow enough time to experience all the spa has to offer.  Along with the Turkish Hammam is the center of the spa, a spa vitality pool for hydrotherapy and relaxation. Also, there is the most incredible ice room.  This room is covered from floor to ceiling in green glass tiles with a sink in the center of the room filled with ice and fresh rosemary sprigs.  There are several impressive individual showers with lights, music and water jets coming from all angles–very cool.  Just beyond the hammam is a lounge area for napping and snacking–there is a spread of fresh fruit, delicious snacks, various drinks and a collection of teas. There is even a tea sommelier upon request.  Lastly, the fitness center is modern and fully stocked and the Julian Farel Salon is conveniently located adjacent to the Spa.

The Leaders Club introduced a new benefit last year called “hometown benefits.”  Members in over twenty cities now have on-property hotel perks, without even needing a room reservation.  For example, Leaders Club members in New York receive 30% off spa treatments at Auriga, as well as a 30% discount off hair and make-up services at Julien Farel at the Setai Fifth Avenue!

Auriga truly is a very special place and I’m looking forward to reserving my next spa treatment very soon!

California has mastered the art of work and play. After growing up in Monterey, California (now living in NYC) and traveling to Los Angeles for years for business, I have found the perfect blend of both work and play when I am there.  During the summer I bring my girls, Ava (12) and Tallulah (4), with me on my LA work trips to make a mini-vacation out of it for them. We wake up to the ocean and I try to take as many meetings and appointments in either the ressie or lobby of my favorite hotel in Santa Monica, Shutters on the Beach. It’s the best of both worlds for both myself and my girls – super chic and professional, yet laid back and relaxing. My girls have a ball while I am working! Ava loves the pool and they both love the pier that is steps away from the hotel…

Waking up to the ocean is one of the most therapeutic things you can do for yourself, it centers and calms.  The beach chic design and details at Shutters make it a little cocoon of an environment that always makes coming home from a long day of work so rewarding.  The team at the hotel knows I love the ocean air and sound, so the doors and windows to my suite are always open when I arrive.  There is something about the sound of the waves that instantly clears your mind and I find I get the best night’s sleep while there and it makes for optimum creativity as well.

 

The sand-side café, Coast, is one of my favorites for breakfast meetings, which usually consists of oatmeal with berries or egg whites. I love the quote on the breakfast menu – “Sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.” I don’t miss a slice of the homemade cake after lunch or dinner.The red velvet always goes quickly!

 

 

 

 

In between meetings I see the beach concierge and either take a bike out to pedal down the promenade – or sit and simply watch the waves and the coming and goings at the pier. It always amazes me how much I can think to help the business of when I simply have time to sit and stare- note to self: Must do this WAY MORE.

It’s easy to get lost in the beauty.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There’s always work when I’m in Los Angeles and this trip was particularly busy with a visit to Frank Gehry’s studio and a luncheon at Mr. C to launch my new dress salon collection.

I’m constantly in awe when I visit Frank’s studio. It’s such a stunning example of where the mind can go and what the mind can create if you just let it. I took both of my daughters to visit and they were mesmerized by the colors, shapes, and the visual engagement. It’s a bit like being in a candy store for adults. Frank’s studio constantly challenges me to push the envelope further and take more risks with my own designs – we all need forces like that in our lives.

 

I have been friends with the Cipriani family for years and their restaurants in NYC are among my regular spots.The family has long been associated with amazing dining experiences and I was honored to host a luncheon for my new dress salon collection at their flagship hotel in Beverly Hills, Mr. C.

 

 

 

 

The event was held outdoors by the pool, which allowed me to take advantage of warm Southern California weather while retaining all of the chicness of the east coast and the editors loved it! We sampled the signature Mr. C Bellini along with beef carpaccio, yellowtail with lemon and olive oil and tuna tartar for lunch.

 

After lunch Sanaa Lathan and I learned how to make the famous Mr. C fresh mandarin cocktail- from Patrizio Ercolini– who is the restaurant manager, right beside the pool. I loved the history behind the drink but even more so learning how to make it from Patrizio.

 

After work there is always time to play on the sand with the girls before dinner. Having a home base like Shutters makes the work part of the trip seem not so overwhelming and the mini vacation part of the trip pure heaven. I wish life was always so divine!

-Rachel Roy

 

 

Rachel Roy, designer, entrepreneur, philanthropist and mother, designs to inspire women to feel smart, confident and individual.

Originally from California, Rachel attended college in Washington DC. Upon graduation, Rachel pursued her passion for design, and moved to New York City to work freelance; styling magazine shoots and music videos.

In Fall 2004, she applied her sophisticated aesthetic to her own collection, RACHEL ROY, which debuted in department and specialty stores for Spring 2005. With striking silhouettes, a sophisticated color palette and inventive pairings which transition from day to evening, Roy has garnered editorial acclaim in publications such as Vogue, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, W and Vanity Fair.

Presently, RACHEL ROY NEW YORK has grown to include four full collections each year, and in June 2008, created a joint venture with Jones Apparel Group Inc. in the hopes of expanding the wholesale business globally, introduce new product categories and open stand-alone stores in the United States and abroad. To date, the RACHEL ROY collections are available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and top specialty stores worldwide.