Boutique Hotels – the new way to stay

Boutique Hotels are the “new” way to stay – elegant, upscale, or just luxurious they offer an interesting alternative to the hotel chain. I’ll start with the two that I have personally stayed in.

The first is The Regis Warwick San Francisco Hotel, located near the theatre district. I was meeting a “special person” there and wanted the most romantic room possible – so I did some research, and found that a few had canopied beds. Further research showed that one, the Warwick, had rooms (Regis Premier), with true four-poster canopied beds, not the crown canopy which just sits at the head of the bed. The rooms have been renovated, but from the photo tour, they seem to be similar in style still. My room was smallish (some of the rooms were teeny, so watch out), but oh, so beautiful. In addition to the huge canopied four-poster bed was an armoire, and a small sitting area, with French provincial old-world styled settees, with a coffee table, end tables, lamps, a writing desk, decadent curtains, and a fireplace! My two requirements were satisfied. I have to note, in the interest of honesty, that when I arrived, after being repeatedly assured on the phone that I was guaranteed one of the four poster rooms, I was shown to a closet sized room, with a plain bed – not the romantic get-away I’d hoped for. I cried, they apologized (it was the bellboy who made things right I think – he saw my distress – full service from him), and moved me to the room of my dreams. As I sit here writing this, over 8 years later, I still recall it vividly, and am wearing one of their signature white cotton waffle wave bathrobes, with the embroidered logo, that I purchased after my stay for the memories. So make sure that you guarantee one of those “special” rooms, ask for it in writing, and then relax, enjoy, and step out onto your little balcony and revel in the city.

Warwick San Francisco Hotel

490 Geary Street, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA
Tel: +1 415 928 7900 Fax: +1 415 441 8788
res.sf@warwickhotels.com

Hotel Home Page

• Online Reservations
• Rooms & Suites
• Restaurants & Bars
• Meetings & Conferences
• Hotel Facilities & Services
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• More Information

Warwick San Francisco Hotel, an elegant and popular downtown San Francisco hotel, lies in the heart of San Francisco’s fashionable theatre district, just two blocks west of Union Square and the famed San Francisco cable cars, world-class shopping and dining. Also within easy walking distance from the hotel you will find popular San Francisco travel destinations such as the Moscone Convention Center, Yerba Buena Gardens, Chinatown and San Francisco’s financial district. In fact, the hotel puts you in close touch with almost everyplace you need to visit on your next San Francisco vacation. Warwick San Francisco Hotel is just 13 miles north of San Francisco International Airport.

Featuring some of the most elegant Union Square accommodation facilities, the Warwick San Francisco Hotel offers 74 rooms including 16 suites that are tastefully appointed in the style of Louis XVI. In 2002, the hotel underwent an extensive renovation. The renovation ensured that Warwick San Francisco Hotel’s European elegance and comfort were retained whilst introducing new colour schemes that complement the authentic Louis XVI antique armoires, four-poster and crown-canopied beds and hand-carved headboards. Warwick San Francisco Hotel also added new writing tables as well as wireless Internet and two-line telephones.

Warwick San Francisco Hotel is a touch of Europe in the heart of San Francisco. This elegant San Francisco hotel was originally designed in 1911 by Arthur Brown Jr. the architect of San Francisco’s award-winning City Hall. Today, Warwick San Francisco is one of San Francisco’s most exquisitely accommodating hotels. The hotel building has remained a cherished San Francisco historical landmark since opening in January 1913.

In tune with the best San Francisco dining, Warwick San Francisco Hotel’s La Scene Café & Bar serves Mediterranean cuisine with Californian flair. Enjoy the avant-garde flavors of the Zagat rated La Scene Café and Bar where as our guest you receive a great discount on your savory dinner and enjoy a superb continental breakfast to start your day. Dinner Specialties include: Salad Niçoise with Grilled Ahi Tuna, accented with fresh vegetables, or select our signature entrée: Pan-Roasted Scallops served with Haricots Verts, Mashed Potatoes, Bacon and Chive Fumet.”

Rooms & Suites

Traditional and Euro-American classic in style, the Warwick San Francisco Hotel offers 74 classic rooms which include 16 suites and are tastefully appointed in the style of Louis XVI. Rooms are furnished with hand-carved headboards, antique armoires and a writing table. Guest rooms also include private Italian marble baths, honour bar refrigerators, individually controlled thermostats, 26” flat screen LCD televisions, equipped with premium cable and pay-per-view channels, on-demand movies, a dual-line telephone in each room, voicemail, high-speed wireless Internet access ($11.95 USD Per Day), guest safes, hairdryers, ceiling fan, monogrammed robes and umbrellas.

Room Types

6 Superior Queens
42 Deluxe Queens
6 Deluxe Twins

Suites
6 Deluxe Junior Suites
4 Petite Suites
6 Executive Front Suites
2 Regis Deluxe Rooms
2 Regis Premier Rooms

Superior Queen

Rooms are furnished with crown-canopied queen size beds with hand-carved headboards, antique armoires and a writing table. Guest rooms also include high-speed wireless Internet access ($11.95 USD Per Day), private Italian marble baths, honour bar refrigerators, individually controlled thermostats, ceiling fan, premium cable, 26” flat screen LCD television and pay-per-view channels, on-demand movies, a dual-line telephone, voicemail, guest safes, hairdryers, monogrammed robes and umbrellas. 165 sq. feet.

Deluxe Queen

Rooms are furnished with crown-canopied queen size beds with hand-carved headboards, antique armoires and a writing table. Guest rooms also include high-speed wireless Internet access ($11.95 USD Per Day), private Italian marble baths, honour bar refrigerators, individually controlled thermostats, ceiling fan, premium cable, 26” flat screen LCD television and pay-per-view channels, on-demand movies, a dual-line telephone, voicemail, guest safes, hairdryers, monogrammed robes and umbrellas. 230 sq. feet.

Deluxe Room 2 Twin Beds

Rooms are furnished with two twin beds with hand-carved headboards, antique armoires and a writing table. Guest rooms also include high-speed wireless Internet access ($11.95 USD Per Day), private Italian marble baths, honour bar refrigerators, individually controlled thermostats, ceiling fan, premium cable, 26” flat screen LCD television and pay-per-view channels, on-demand movies, a dual-line telephone, voicemail, guest safes, hairdryers, monogrammed robes and umbrellas. 310 sq. feet.

Deluxe Junior Suites

These charming suites feature locking French doors separating the bedroom from the parlor, a full Italian marble bathroom in the bedroom, as well as, a full bath in the parlor room with a stand-up shower. A crown-canopied queen sized bed in the master bedroom, and the parlor has a queen-sized sofa pullout. Two separate entrances make this room ideal for families. Guest rooms also include high-speed wireless Internet access ($11.95 USD Per Day), honour bar refrigerators, individually controlled thermostats, ceiling fans, premium cable, 26” flat screen LCD television and pay-per-view channels, on-demand movies, two dual-line telephones, voicemail, guest safes, hairdryers, monogrammed robes and umbrellas. 418 sq. feet.

Petite Suites

These elegant suites feature an Italian marble bathroom, a crown-canopied queen sized bed in the bedroom, and a parlor with a queen-sized sofa pullout. These suites feature a step out balcony over looking Geary Street. The Petite Suites also include high-speed wireless Internet access ($11.95 USD Per Day), private Italian marble baths, honour bar refrigerators, individually controlled thermostats, ceiling fans, premium cable, 26” flat screen LCD television and pay-per-view channels, on-demand movies, two dual-line telephones, voicemail, guest safes, hairdryers, monogrammed robes and umbrellas. 340 sq. feet.

Executive Front Suites

Our largest two-room suites include a crown-canopied queen sized bed in the bedroom, and a queen-sized sofa-pullout in the parlor. Locking French doors separate the bedroom from the parlor, two separate entrances and two full bathrooms make this room ideal for families. These Executive Suites also include high-speed wireless Internet access ($11.95 USD Per Day), private Italian marble baths, honour bar refrigerators, individually controlled thermostats, ceiling fans, premium cable, 26” flat screen LCD television and pay-per-view channels, on-demand movies, two dual-line telephones, voicemail, guest safes, hairdryers, monogrammed robes and umbrellas. 485 sq. feet.

Regis Deluxe Rooms

These spacious rooms feature a queen size bed with hand-carved headboards, antique armoires and a writing table. These rooms also have a fireplace with a sitting area, a step out balcony as well as a 42” flat screen LCD Television. Guest rooms also include high-speed wireless Internet access ($11.95 USD Per Day), private Italian marble baths, honour bar refrigerators, individually controlled thermostats, ceiling fan, premium cable, pay-per-view channels, on-demand movies, a dual-line telephone, voicemail, guest safes, hairdryers, monogrammed robes and umbrellas. 290-340 sq. feet.

Regis Premier Rooms

Feature a four poster canopied queen size bed with a hand-carved headboard, antique armoire and a writing table. These rooms also have a fireplace with a sitting area as well as a 42” flat screen LCD Television. These Regis Premier rooms also includes high-speed wireless Internet access ($11.95 USD Per Day), private Italian marble bath, honour bar refrigerator, individually controlled thermostats, ceiling fans, premium cable, pay-per-view channels, on-demand movies, a dual-line telephone, voicemail, guest safes, hairdryers, monogrammed robes and umbrellas. 340 sq. feet.

Facilities for Persons with Disabilities

• 4 ADA compliant rooms
• No rooms with roll-in showers

Smoking Policy

1 smoking floor

Pets

Pets are not allowed

http://www.warwicksf.com/default.aspx?pg=home&rp=accommodation

Now this next one I can personally recommend as well. I stayed here back in 2000 when I went to Vancouver for Lasik eye surgery. A close friend and I went; she was there to help me after the surgery, as my eye sight would take a day or two to fully function, and to shop. We stayed in teh King Suite – incrediblly colorful, and upbeat, and funky. The rooms were fabulous – colorful, memorable, and the hotel was in the heart of everything – almost right across the street was a fabulous little French bakery/cafe which served incredible chocolate crepes, etc. I loved it! (La Bretagne The Original Creperie Ltd, 604-688-5989, 795 Jervis Street , Vancouver , BC V6E 2B1)

Pacific Palisades Hotel

Located on trendy Robson Street, in downtown Vancouver, the Pacific Palisades hotels South Beach inspired décor reflects a fun, hip, refreshing attitude towards hospitality. With the hotels highly personalized service for both the business and leisure traveler alike, the hotel provides a unique yet comfortable environment in the heart of Vancouver’s shopping district.

Whether you want to relax and unwind in the spa, take advantage of one of the hotels specials or packages, join us for a glass of wine at our hosted evening wine reception or just venture out to explore Vancouver on your own, the Pacific Palisades hotel is your hip connection to the city.

Certified Pet-Friendly

1277 Robson Street, Vancouver, BC
Canada V6E 1C4
T: 604-688-0461
F: 604-688-4374
toll-free: 1-800-663-1815
http://www.pacificpalisadeshotel.com/

Guest Services and Amenities:

HIP SERVICE, NOT LIP SERVICE

• 24 hour business service
• Zin Restaurant & Lounge
• concierge service
• valet service
• Starbucks® coffee service
• shoeshine service
• spa services
• room service 5:30am to midnight
• catering services

Personalized room preferences and welcome amenities for Kimpton InTouch guest loyalty members.
Complimentary evening Wine reception for guests to gather, acquaint and refresh. It’s our treat that tops off the host of other surprises you’ll encounter throughout the hotel.

Health + Wellness
Yoga program
Yoga Kits are available to borrow at no charge for those who are staying at the hotel. Each yoga kit includes one yoga mat, one block, and one strap. Guests can carry out their own preferred yoga routines in the privacy of their rooms or they can turn to a designated channel on their television for a basic yoga instructional video that will be playing 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For Yoga Enthusiasts who are interested taking their yoga routine to the next level, the hotel offers Personal Fitness Training services such as Private Yoga and Pilates mat work sessions and Group Yoga and Pilates sessions for conferences… click here

Mind.Body.Spa
Imagine the absolute luxury of having a full-service day spa in the calm and comfort of your Kimpton Hotel room. Our in-room spa services can help you unwind after a day of meetings or a long flight. You can treat yourself to the luxury of massages, manicures, pedicures and a variety of facials in most of our hotels. Don’t think these services are just a gal thing. Our guy guests are starting to use the in-room spa services, too. … click here

MBODY Fitness & Wellness Spa
55ft indoor swimming pool
Steam room
State the art Cybex cardio equipment
Strength and Stretch room
Feet retreat poolside cabana
My 1 st Spa children’s spa services
Spa Services … click here for spa menu

Walk/Run
Vancouver has limitless options for wonderful walks along the water, through forests, trails and parks… click here

V.I.Pets Program
Pet Friendly Pacific Palisades Hotel welcomes furry friends of all kinds

The Pacific Palisades Hotel welcomes furry canine and feline friends with
open arms. Dog biscuits or cat treats, a Pacific Palisades orange Frisbee, a bowl,
pick-up bags and a lot of pet-friendly areas to visit are all available for you and your pet. Additionally, the Pacific Palisades has a designated pet corner in the lobby where water bowls and a personalized welcome board resides.

At the Pacific Palisades Hotel, the following pet policy applies:
. Any type of pet is allowed.
. No fee or deposit is required.
. No limit on number of pets.
. No height or weight restrictions.
. Pets are not restricted to certain floors or rooms.

. A door sign to hang when the pet does not want to be disturbed.
. Guests are requested to notify the hotels in advance when bringing a
pet so that pet preferences can be identified.

Ask about the Pampered Pooch package, a wellness package for your four legged friend which includes a one hour massage for your pet and one for his/her owner too!… click here

Zin Restaurant & Lounge
Zin Restaurant & Lounge offers cuisine beyond borders. Chef Brian Fodor and his culinary team have gathered recipes from around the world to create a style of food that is International and approachable. It’s a balancing act of diverse spices introduced to simple, local, ethically chosen ingredients while playfully presented. Zin Restaurant & Lounge is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week, located at 1277 Robson Street. To make a reservation visit www.zin-restaurant.com or call 604-408-1700

http://www.pacificpalisadeshotel.com/guestservices_amenities.html

Executive King View Room

Spacious and modern, the Executive King View Room features a wall of windows that showcase stunning views of the harbour and mountains or the bright city lights. With 350sq ft of living space, each room offers a small sitting area with a single lounge chair and ottoman which is perfect for viewing movies, a large desk with plenty of workspace and a 2-line data port telephone, complimentary high speed internet access, as well as, a convenience kitchenette with fully stocked minibar.

King Suite

The King Suite provides a spacious living room, balcony, dining area for four, efficiency kitchen, minibar and a separate bedroom with a king size bed. The Suite features televisions in both the living room and bedroom, including pay per view movies and video games while the living room offers a sofa pull-out that converts to a comfortable queen size bed, club chair and a writing desk with 2-line data port phone and complimentary high speed internet access.

Queen Suite
The Queen Suite offers a spacious living room, balcony, dining area for four, efficiency kitchen, minibar and a separate bedroom with a queen size bed and walk-in closet. The Suite features televisions in both the living room and bedroom, including pay per view movies and video games. The living room offers a sofa pull-out that converts to a comfortable queen size bed, club chair and a writing desk with 2-line data port phone and complimentary high speed internet access.

Executive King Suite or Executive Queen Suite
Modern and bright in hip citrus shades, each Executive Suite offers a spacious living and dining area, efficiency kitchen, minibar, its own large private balcony with mountain, harbour or city views, as well as, a generous separate bedroom with either a King or Queen sized bed. The large writing desk in the living room offers a great space to work with a 2-line data port telephone and complimentary high speed internet access while the sofa pull-out converts to a comfortable queen size bed. The televisions in both the living room and bedroom offer pay per view movies.

Double Double Room

More spacious than a standard hotel room, the Double Double Room features two double beds, a small sitting area with a single lounge chair with ottoman and a large writing desk with 2-line data port phone and complimentary high speed internet access. Each room has an efficiency kitchen with microwave, minibar, coffee maker and sink.

http://www.pacificpalisadeshotel.com/guestrooms.html

JW Marriott Hotel Pennsylvania Avenue

• 1331 Pennsylvania Avenue
• Washington, District Of Columbia 20004 USA
• Phone: 1-202-393-2000
• Fax: 1-202-626-6991

The JW Marriott Hotel is a luxurious hotel located on the District of Columbia`s famous Pennsylvania Avenue. Situated among the most recognizable landmarks in Washington DC, this hotel provides easy access to the renowned DC monuments, museums and other cultural venues around the city like the National Theatre, the Convention Center and the National Portrait Gallery. Additionally, this hotel is near the White House, one block from Washington`s Metro system and 15 minutes from Reagan National Airport.
This downtown Washington DC hotel features more than just a great location. The hotel offers 22 meeting rooms and 37,000 square feet of total meeting space, making it a premier meeting facility in the Washington DC metro area. All of the hotel`s 738 luxurious rooms are equipped with high-speed internet access and 32“ HDTVs with connections for your MP3 player and video camera. The excellent location and amenities at this Pennsylvania Avenue Marriott make it the ideal choice for business and leisure travelers

Guest Rooms in Detail:

• These Washington DC hotel suites feature the Plug In Panel, exclusively from Marriott.
• Each room has a 32? widescreen LCD HDTV, which is easily connected to your laptop, MP3 or camera.
• Experience luxury at this Pennsylvania Avenue hotel with Revive, the new bed from Marriott.
• Every room at this Marriott features 300-thread count sheets, fluffier pillows & thicker mattresses.
• Treat your VIPs to one of the 34 spacious and well-appointed suites available at this DC hotel.
• The Concierge Lounge serves continental breakfast, evening hors d?oeuvres & snacks.

Connectivity :

Public Areas

• Wireless

Guest Rooms

• Wired

Meeting Rooms

• Wireless

JW Marriott® Hotel on Pennsylvania Avenue

1331 Pennsylvania Avenue

Washington, District Of Columbia 20004 USA

Phone: 1-202-393-2000

Fax: 1-202-626-6991

http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/wasjw-jw-marriott-hotel-pennsylvania-avenue/

Allergen-free rooms for the nose that knows

Anyone who suffers from allergies, as more than 50 million of us do according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, knows how hard it is to manage their allergies on the road, thanks to ever-changing environments. For the 20.3 million people with asthma, the effects of coming into contact with a trigger substance can be downright deadly. But we have to travel, and to do so we often have to stay in hotels.

Last May I told you about the Hilton O’Hare at Chicago’s airport creating two allergen-free rooms in response to customer requests. The hotel took a wait-and-see approach to the rooms, deciding to let customer demand decide if any more of the special rooms would be created. Well it’s a scant 5 months later, and the hotel is gutting 15 more rooms to create the “ultimate clean” rooms.

Customer demand has been so high, the hotel is committing $8,000 per room to cover the upgrades which include shutters instead of dust-trapping curtains, wood floors instead of mite-full carpets, not to mention air purifiers, scent-free toiletries and non-toxic cleaning products, Hotel Interactive reports.

The hotel’s website now mentions its Environmentally Friendly rooms, and notes you need to call to reserve one. But when I used the site to check availability for Oct. 21, room choices included the allergy-free room at a cost of $159 vs. $139 for a standard king non-smoking room. Personally, I’d pay $20 extra bucks a night just to avoid the nasty smelling cleaning products most hotels use. Here’s hoping Hilton will take the idea chain-wide and other hoteliers will follow suit.

And another thing …

X marks the end of the boomers: As generation gaps go, this is a pretty big one. Hotels have long catered to the baby-boomer crowd, that enormous group of folks born from 1946-1964. Boomers have held sway over the industry with their purchasing power and large incomes. But that is slowly changing, thanks to the inevitable passing of time and a rising group of upstarts known as Generation X. PricewaterhouseCoopers predicts this will be the first year the Gen Xers spend more on business travel than baby boomers do, reports The International Herald Tribune. And that can only lead to a shift in which group hotels will cater to.

Based on quotes in The IHT, it seems baby boomers like warm, comfortable settings; Gen Xers by and large want more out of the hotel socially; a great bar, comfortable lobby. Eventually, the shift will be clear as boomers retire and Gen Xers find greater purchasing power through established careers, but for now, the line is blurred. I think this is already showing up in the niche, boutique hotels that are everywhere and also at the “older” chain hoteliers that have returned to comfort and personalization as main selling points. Sure, some established chains are looking to get hip, and some boutique hotels aren’t edgy and hip, but more and more, I think you’ll see a delineation of the clientele. To each his own.

Name dropping: If you’re a fan of the Millennium Biltmore in Los Angeles (if you’ve stayed there, you know what I mean) try and catch the episode of Alias that will run on Oct. 20. A bunch of scenes from the Jennifer Garner action series were filmed at the historic property. The hotel was built in 1923 and is a member of Historic Hotels of America.

http://www.usatoday.com/travel/hotels/hotsheet/2005-10-11-hotsheet_x.htm

Yotel

Sleep, refresh, work or relax…

Everything you would expect from a luxury hotel in a small space. Located uniquely inside the airport terminal buildings at London Heathrow’s Terminal 4 and London Gatwick’s South Terminal. Just moments walk from check in, arrivals and minutes from the other terminals. YOTEL opens at Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam in early 2008.

You can choose between Premium (double) and Standard (large single) cabins with en suite bathrooms, flat screen TV’s, free WiFi and 24 hour in cabin service.

Book exactly what you want when you want it – from just a few hours day or night to 24 or more.

Premium cabin:

The double bed 2m x 1.3m deploys to a couch arrangement at the touch of a button (think first class airline cabins), a hand layered organic coir, latex and lambswool mattress for the best sleep ever with percale cotton sheets pillows and duvet and a huge cushion for lounging.

Bedside tables are designed to accommodate hand luggage with stowage below.

Bedside charging points, personal lighting, dimming control and bed deployment switch allows you to work or relax without moving from the comfort of your bed

The luxury bathroom includes overhead rain shower, a hand shower, revitalising all in one body wash, heated mirror and soft towels .

A retractable storage area below the bed for suitcases.

The study desk folds out of the techno wall with its own stow able chair and a complete range of power and connectivity including free internet access and cosy local lighting. Suit and dress hanging and storage for everything from your smalls to the loose change provide a place for everything and everything a place.

A 23”flat screen TV system with huge choice of films, TV, radio, and internet.

Order from a cabin service menu on screen or visit the galley where your cabin crew are on duty 24 hours a day.

Have fun – there’s as much in these 10 square metres as you’d find in most 4 star hotels.

Want to see more? Have a look at our 360° virtual cabin tours.

The double bed 2m x 1.3m deploys to a couch arrangement at the touch of a button (think first class airline cabins), a hand layered organic coir, latex and lambswool mattress for the best sleep ever with percale cotton sheets pillows and duvet and a huge cushion for lounging.

Bedside tables are designed to accommodate hand luggage with stowage below.

Bedside charging points, personal lighting, dimming control and bed deployment switch allows you to work or relax without moving from the comfort of your bed

The luxury bathroom includes overhead rain shower, a hand shower, revitalising all in one body wash, heated mirror and soft towels .

A retractable storage area below the bed for suitcases.

The study desk folds out of the techno wall with its own stow able chair and a complete range of power and connectivity including free internet access and cosy local lighting. Suit and dress hanging and storage for everything from your smalls to the loose change provide a place for everything and everything a place.

A 23”flat screen TV system with huge choice of films, TV, radio, and internet.

Order from a cabin service menu on screen or visit the galley where your cabin crew are on duty 24 hours a day.

Have fun – there’s as much in these 10 square metres as you’d find in most 4 star hotels.

Want to see more? Have a look at our 360° virtual cabin tours.

Standard cabin:

These rooms over lap to create upper and lower cabins We like them both the most!

The large single bed 2m x1m (large enough for a cosy 2) with full sitting height, a hand layered organic coir, latex and lambswool mattress for the best sleep ever with percale cotton sheets pillows and duvet.

The bathroom includes a shower, revitalising all in one body wash, heated mirror and soft towels.

The fold out work desk and stool, doubles for unpacking and there is overhead hand luggage stowage, suit bag hanging and storage areas for small pieces. A complete range of power and connectivity including free internet access and cosy local lighting.

A 20” flat screen TV system with huge choice of films, TV, radio and games & internet

Order from a cabin service menu on screen or go to the galley where your cabin crew are on duty 24 hours a day.

Have fun – there’s as much in these 7 square metres as you’d find in most 4 star hotels.

Want to see more? Have a look at our 360° virtual cabin tours.

http://www.yotel.com/

Nine Zero Hotel Accommodations – The Standard for Boston Boutique Hotels.

Comfort is not sacrificed for the sake of style at Nine Zero Hotel. All 190 sumptuously appointed guestrooms invite guests to relax. Custom-designed beds (our guests often tell us they’ve never slept better), billowy down comforters, and a wide selection of pillows complement the beautiful furnishings, plush fabrics, soothing color scheme and elegant lighting throughout.
To complete your stay at our 4 star Boston hotel, all of our guestrooms and suites feature the following services and amenities:

• Complimentary wireless and wired high-speed Internet access in all guestrooms
• Complimentary morning newspaper
• Multi-line, cordless phones with voicemail and speakerphone
• Large desk with workspace and ergonomic leather Freedom™ desk chair
• 27″ TV
• On-demand games on all televisions
• Stereo sound system with CD player
• CD library available through concierge
• 24-hour room service
• Fully-stocked honor bars
• Rise & Shine complimentary overnight shoe shine
• Amenities of home including iron and ironing board, hairdryer, terrycloth bathrobes, padded satin hangers and full-length mirror
• In-room safe (designed to accommodate laptops)
• “Forgot It? We’ve Got It!” essential travel items
• “Mind. Body. Spa.” in-room spa services as well as exercise programs for yoga, Pilates and core strengthening
• Custom bath amenities
• Bring your pooch with you – Nine Zero Hotel is a pet friendly hotel

Our five suites will make you believe you’re staying in your very own stylish urban apartment. Each suite features a living room, dining room and huge bathroom (decorated with thoughtful and whimsical touches of home). The windows allow abundant natural light and afford spectacular views of Boston. For entertaining clients or friends, our suites provide the perfect environment. Cloud Nine
Located on the nineteenth floor of our boutique hotel, our penthouse suite floats dramatically above Boston with floor-to-ceiling windows and breathtaking views. Electronic drapes, a viewing telescope, plasma screen television with surround sound, a steam shower, and Jacuzzi complete this heavenly cosmopolitan getaway.
Please contact us directly at 617.772.5800 to book specific suites at our Boston boutique hotel.

http://www.ninezero.com/nnz-rooms/index.html

World Class Service at Nine Zero Hotel, Boston’s Premier Small Luxury Hotel.

With personalized service that leaves no detail overlooked, each guest at our Boston luxury hotel is approached with genuine concern, unmatched care and attentiveness to ultimate comfort with a creative flair.
The moment guests arrive at Nine Zero Hotel, they find themselves surrounded by sophisticated style, elegant furnishings and beautiful colors. Our hotel furthers this luxury boutique hotel experience with the perfect balance of must-have and indulgent services and amenities. Whether traveling for business or leisure, enjoy the effortlessness of staying at our luxury hotel in downtown Boston.
In keeping with the exemplary level of services and amenities at Nine Zero Hotel, guests enjoy:

• Personalized room preferences and welcome amenities for Kimpton InTouch guest loyalty members
• Complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access throughout the hotel
• Hosted evening wine hour
• Complimentary morning newspaper of your choice
• Overnight shoeshine
• Same day valet/laundry
• Dine with as at KO Prime
• 24-hour room service
• Concierge services including dining reservations, tickets for sporting events, concerts and theaters, as well as sightseeing tours
• Onsite 24-hour business center, including fax, copier and messenger service
• Complimentary onsite fitness center open daily 5am-10pm
• Valet parking
• Personal shopper from Louis Boston (winner of Boston Magazine “Best of Boston One-Stop Shopping” award)
• Fully accessible for people with disabilities; ADA kits available
• Non-smoking rooms
• Express check-in and check-out
• Bring your pooch with you – Nine Zero Hotel is a pet friendly hotel
• Check in: 3:00 pm
• Check out: 12:00 pm

http://www.ninezero.com/nnz-services/index.html

Nine Zero Hotel Keeps You Out of the Doghouse.

Nine Zero Hotel, a pet-friendly Boston hotel right in the heart of downtown, makes certain you won’t have to leave your favorite friend at home. Complimentary to all our four-legged guests, our “IN the Doghouse” pet package includes:

• Restful overnight accommodations in one of our deluxe guestrooms
• Designer pet welcome treat made especially for your pet
• Nine Zero pet bowls and a pet bed placed in your room for use throughout your stay
• Pet sitting, pet grooming, pet walking and pet massage services available through our concierge

Our hotel is located across from Boston Common, Boston’s pet-friendly 50-acre public park.

http://www.ninezero.com/nnz-petfriendly/index.html

Earthcare: Our Eco Program:

Our hotel supports Kimpton’s mission to be a leader in the hospitality industry in supporting a sustainable world, while continuing to deliver a premium guest experience with non-intrusive, high quality, eco-friendly products and services.

We Take Our EarthCare Commitment Seriously. Very Seriously. Every person who works at Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants is part of a genuine effort to reduce our impact on the environment. This is a life-long corporate commitment that is carried out in each hotel by every individual who works there. Being environmentally responsible is a job that takes awareness and work, every minute of every day. So we’re proud to be recognized by environmental organizations and our industry as one of the leaders in eco-standards in the hospitality industry.

Our hotel uses non-intrusive, high quality eco-friendly practices and products that are making our world a cleaner, healthier place to live. We are protecting both the environment and the sublimely comfortable, memorable experiences our guests have come to know and love.

We are proud to meet the standard set for all Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants throughout the United States. Every day, we see the power of this effort, as we get comments and encouragement from our guests, suppliers and partners and as we continue to see tremendous interest in what we are doing.

By choosing to be our guest, you are part of something truly meaningful.

Click here to see more about how Kimpton EarthCare works:

• Cleaning Supplies: All rooms cleaned with environmentally friendly cleaning products
• Soy Inks: All corporate collateral is printed on recycled paper using soy based ink
• Recycled Paper: Property wide printing on recycled paper
• Organic Beverages: All complimentary lobby coffee is organic, shade grown and/or fair trade
• Towel/Linen Reuse: Guests have the opportunity to do their part to reduce energy and detergents required for daily washings
• Recycling: Back of house recycling programs address glass, bottles, paper, cardboard, etc.
• Energy Conservation: Back of house lighting retrofitted and audited to ensure energy efficient bulbs are in place
• Water Conservation: Implementation and auditing of low flow systems for faucets, toilets, and showers
• Best Practices: At any hotel you may find environmental activities such as recycling of coat hangers, elimination of Styrofoam cups, paperless check-ins/outs, eco friendly dry cleaners, discounted hybrid car parking, and more…
• In-room designer recycling bins: Guests are encouraged to participate in reducing our environmental impact
• Honor bar with organic food and beverage options: Honor bars include organic snacks and beverages
• Donation programs: Instead of being thrown away, unused amenity bottles are donated and used by local charities
• Shop Kimpton Style for eco-friendly products like organic bedding and recycled glassware

Bring a special guest to your meetings: the Planet.
See how EarthCare can be integrated into your events and meetings…
Our awards and recognition:

• Kimpton’s First National Environmental Award: National Geographic Traveler and Travel Industry Association of America (TIA), 2006 National GeoTourism Award

http://www.ninezero.com/nnz-services/green-hotel.html

Twelve: Atlantic Station:

TWELVE is the premier all-suite boutique hotel in the heart of ATLANTIC STATION^®, where you will find fantastic shopping, legendary dining and great entertainment options right outside the door. Its chic, contemporary décor, midtown Atlanta setting and unsurpassed amenities give guests a sophisticated urban experience.

Our new guest service concept will make you rethink your notion of a hotel. Whether you’re visiting Atlanta for business, pleasure or require a distinctive destination for clients or associates, any of our 101 large one and two-bedroom suites at TWELVE will exceed your expectations.

Our red-hot restaurant and bar, Lobby at TWELVE, ground-breaking GHOST^SM desktop application, private guest lounge, outdoor pool, fitness center, ballroom and business center are only a few of the reasons you will love TWELVE. At TWELVE, the choice is yours.

http://www.twelvehotels.com/AtlanticStation/HotelHome.do

Accommodations

The suites at TWELVE offer the casual comforts of home: a full-size kitchen equipped with stainless steel appliances and separate living room area, in a suite design unique to TWELVE. Convertible sofas are available in select suites. Whether you are visiting Atlanta for a short business trip, extended stay or traveling with your family for a special occasion, we offer a suite to meet your needs.

One-Bedroom

View Floorplan

Visiting for one night or for a special occasion? Our One-Bedroom Suite is Perfect for business or leisure.
Our One-Bedroom Suite is the perfect introduction to Life Simpli_fied. Along with large, floor-to-ceiling windows to dominate your suite’s interior, we have included stainless steel appliances in the full-size kitchen; complimented by a microwave, toaster and coffee maker. Each suite also touts a streamlined LCD television in both the living and sleeping areas. Our One-Bedroom Suites upgrade the ordinary hotel room, with 690-825 square feet of space. Clearly extra_ordinary .

Deluxe One-Bedroom

View Floorplan

Need more space?
The Deluxe One-Bedroom Suite offers all the conveniences of our One-Bedroom Suite and it includes a full balcony to take in Atlanta’s skyline. This expansive suite also ranges in size from 700-825 square feet, with convertible sofas available in select suites.

Deluxe Two-Bedroom

View Floorplan

An ideal suite for an extended stay, corporate relocation or family get-away.
Simplify your next business trip or family vacation with a home-away-from-home Two-Bedroom Suite. This is our most generous space ranging in size from 1,030-1,200 square feet. Options abound with this room choice; you may select from a suite with king beds in the sleeping rooms, double beds or a combination. At TWELVE, the choice is yours.

Twelve Highlight:

Your Room. Your Car. Your Style.

TWELVE Atlantic Station and Hank Aaron BMW have engineered the ultimate get away for you. Our new Bed & Beemer Package includes a deluxe one-bedroom suite with luxury amenities, plus the use of a new BMW with unlimited mileage for your entire stay (including valet parking) for only $319 USD per night.

BMW X5
BMW 325ci
MINI Cooper
Only TWELVE lets you Stay in Style & Go in Style.

Package Rules

http://www.twelvehotels.com/AtlanticStation/accommodations/Accommodations.do

Amenities:

TWELVE ATLANTIC STATION offers our guests choices while ensuring the comforts of home are easily accessible, either by telephone or just a mouse click away. Our variable-touch service lets you decide what you need and when.

Technology:

The technology at TWELVE has been designed with our guests’ needs in mind. Our goal is to ensure our guests are as efficient on the road as they are in their offices or homes.

• Each suite equipped with Dell flat-screen monitor and keyboard and our very own GHOST^SM (Guest Hotel Operating System Terminal) desktop application providing you the ability to surf the Internet, select hotel services, reference hotel guest directory, order room service and much more, on your own time
• Self-service check-in kiosk in lobby to accommodate your schedule
• Satellite television programming with over 80 channels
• Complimentary Wi-Fi service available throughout property and pool deck
• LG LCD flat-screen televisions in living and sleeping areas with Zenith DVD player
• VoIP 2-line telephone
• Virtual art on display in hotel lobby

In-Suite Amenities:

Great care has been given to selecting our In-Suite Amenities to ensure these items make guests feel at home by using recognizable name brands.

• Stainless steel Whirlpool appliances in full-sized kitchen
• Sealy Posturepedic beds with lush bedding
• Kohler bathroom fixtures
• Starbuck’s Coffee in every suite
• Aveda bath and body amenities
• Work desk, complete with ergonomic chair
• Locking storage closet available for returning guests to secure personal items for short periods between stays. In select suites for a fee
• In-suite safes large enough to accommodate a laptop
• Bathrobe, make-up mirror, alarm clock and much more

Guest Services:

To experience the remarkable, you only need to step into your suite. But thoughtfully, TWELVE provided much more.

• BMWs and a MINI Cooper, from which to choose. Rent for a few hours or for the day – don’t forget your proof of insurance!
• Private guest lounge located steps from the second floor terrace with large LCD flat-panel televisions and ample space to relax
• Hotel ballroom to host your next event
• Special occasion packages for anyone or anytime you want to impress
• Outdoor swimming pool with refreshing food and beverage offerings
• Business center with fax machine, copier and Dell computer
• Executive conference room. Rentable for meetings with up to 12 participants
• Valet parking or self parking. Daily or hourly rates available
• Key-only access to elevators
• Fitness center complete with Life Fitness training equipment
• 24-hour room service
• 24-hour concierge service

http://www.twelvehotels.com/AtlanticStation/amenities/Amenities.do

HOTEL METROPOLIS IN SAN FRANCISCO

Vivid Colors and Modern Materials – Indulge Yourself in the Wilder Side of the Color Wheel.
Indulge yourself and stay at Hotel Metropolis on your next visit to San Francisco. With the vivid colors that envelop each room throughout the hotel, you’ll feel like you’ve entered paradise! The design of the Metropolis gently balances earth, wind, fire, and water from the sophisticated lobby and directly to your guest room. In addition to the vivid design of Hotel Metropolis, you will be delighted with its convenient location in San Francisco’s famous Union Square. Located just north of Market Street and one block west of the Powell Street Cable Car line, the Metropolis is just steps away from Union Square shopping. While indulging yourself at Hotel Metropolis, you can enjoy fine dining and theaters, as well as the Moscone Convention Center and Yerba Buena Gardens. We guarantee superior hotel specials and packages,and a vivid experience for your stay in San Francisco.

http://www.hotelmetropolis.com/

Hotel Metropolis Rooms
Each floor of this 105 room, ten story hotel, reflects either earth, wind, fire or water. The image is carefully created with symbolic color, design, graphics and artwork. Rich fabrics and custom furniture complete the picture.
All rooms, one and two bedroom suites and the “Zen Kid’s Suite” have refrigerators, 2-line phones with dataports and voice mail, remote control television with Nintendo plus pay-per-view movies, hairdryers, irons and boards and desks.
Casegoods constructed in African limba with stainless steel hardware, maple framed chairs upholstered in richly colored chenille, and drum shade lighting with turned wooden bases all contribute to an original look that is both striking and refreshing.

http://www.hotelmetropolis.com/html/m_rooms.html

Hotel Metropolis Amenities and Services

Our Professional and Friendly Staff are dedicated to excellence.
The Concierge Staff pride themselves on arranging entire itineraries from transportation to dinner reservations and theatre tickets.
Other amenities include:

• Complimentary use of library
• Two bottles of complimentary water upon arrival
• Need to get it done now? Our Business Center is open 24 hours
• Complimentary high-speed wireless internet in all rooms and lobby. Second floor rooms also have wired internet ports
• Workout in the Cardio Center
• For a more serious workout, we also offer discounted day passes to Club One Fitness Center
• Balance body and spirit in the Holistic/Well-being Room
• On-site parking with in/out privileges ($30 fee plus tax)
• Pet Friendly – Please see our Pet Policy

http://www.hotelmetropolis.com/html/m_amen.html

Hotel Metropolis Kids Suite:

Besides bouncing on the beds, most children find hotel rooms boring. But, the one-of-a-kind Urban Explorers Kids Suite at Hotel Metropolis with pint-sized furniture, bunk beds, an emac computer, a chalkboard wall, toys and rubber ducky decor in the bathroom is a huge hit with families. The three-room family suite sleeps up to six adults and three children. In addition to the kids’ room, there is connecting guestroom with two queen beds and custom furnishings for the adults, as well as a living room area with a refrigerator, wet bar and pull-out sofa for only $369 per night, excluding tax and subject to availability.

http://www.hotelmetropolis.com/html/kids.html

Hotel Triton: An Inspiring Boutique Hotel by San Francisco’s Union Square

In 1991, nine San Francisco artists put their heads and hearts together with a singleness of purpose. Their collaborative genius created the inspirational Hotel Triton, a 140-room wonderland like no other.
Inspired by the original creators’ imagination, our San Francisco boutique hotel continues to evolve, always staying at the forefront of all things visionary and distinct. Step inside our lobby and check out a fantastic mural that tells the story of San Francisco’s growing and ever-changing art scene. Discover stunning photos in the hallways instead of uninspiring art you’ve learned to tune out. We’ve even designed a collection of celebrity hotel suites, joining forces with some of the most dynamic names in the entertainment industry.
The Hotel Triton, a Kimpton Hotel, is also an inspiration and pioneer in environmentally friendly: Our entire Union Square hotel is cleaned with “green” products, our eco-friendly rooms and eco-celebrity suites are hugely popular, and we’ve partnered up with The Trust for Public Land, donating a percentage of room revenue to this visionary organization.
Best of all, just two blocks from Union Square, Hotel Triton is right in the center of the scene that drives San Francisco. Across the street from the Chinatown Gates, our boutique hotel is conveniently located five blocks from Moscone Center. Hotel Triton is just a short walk to Little Italy, a quick complimentary towncar ride Monday through Friday 7-9 a.m. to the Financial District, or a smooth stroll to historic Nob Hill.

It’s no wonder Harper’s Bazaar singled out the Hotel Triton as the best hotel in San Francisco, calling it “a happening and unique escape from the mundane.”

• Complimentary wireless Internet access
• Hosted evening wine hour
• The Hotel Triton is a smoke free establishment

http://www.hoteltriton.com/index.html

Wake up and dream at the Hotel Triton, a San Francisco boutique hotel:

Open the door to your guestroom and you’ll happily discover the inspiration doesn’t stop. Guestrooms run the gamut: Choose one that has walls the color of tomato soup or hand-painted with big blue diamonds… Adopt a signature Hotel Triton rubber ducky for bath time… Ooh and aah over the curvy custom-designed furniture that’s comfortable too (tumble into an outrageously sinkable pillow top mattress, sure to inspire a good night’s sleep)… Spoil yourself with eco-friendly bath products (that smell good too) or one of the yummy treats found in the fully-stocked honor bars.

All of this isn’t just form without function. Inspiring among San Francisco boutique hotels, the Hotel Triton pampers guests with rejuvenating guestrooms, fabulous amenities, and a soothing art-inspired ambience:

• Custom armoires hiding Sony flat screen TVs with remote control, Nintendo, cable and movies on demand
• New Sealy Posturepedic pillow top mattresses and bedding with 300-thread count designer sheets
• 24 hour Yoga channel with yoga kits brought to your room upon request
• Complimentary WI-FI for your laptop throughout the entire hotel
• Two line speakerphones with voicemail and data port
• iHome iH5 clock radio docking/charging station
• Fully stocked honor bar with bubble bath, snacks, libations galore and personal fun surprises
• Luxurious zebra print robes, hair dryer, iron and ironing board, extra pillows, wood hangers
• Highest quality eco-friendly bath products
• Same-day laundry service
• Windows that open to fresh air and individual heat and air conditioning units
• Recycling options
• Room service
• The Hotel Triton is a smoke free establishment

Celebrity Eco Suites
The Hotel Triton, one of Kimpton’s boutique hotels and an inspiring example, actively creates partnerships and relationships with those also invested in environmental causes. In addition to the eco-friendly products we use and the eco-conscious programs we put into place throughout the hotel, we created these really great Eco Suites.

Zen Dens
Experience the quiet calm and inspiring comfort of Zen with a stay in one of the Hotel Triton’s new Zen Dens. Ideal for the solo traveler looking to find solace, these cozy guestrooms feature a uniquely stylized full sized daybed that also serves as a couch. Each room features incense, the Book of Buddha, mechanical wind chimes, your very own bamboo plant to nurture during your stay, and a picture of a Goddess Tara to watch over you and offer abundance.http://www.hoteltriton.com/html/RoomsSuites.html

Designer Celebrity Suites in the Inspiring Boutique Hotel Triton, San Francisco

If you’ve dreamed of rubbing elbows and mingling with celebrities, turn those dreams into inspired reality — wine and dine among the beautiful people at the Hotel Triton in San Francisco. A chance encounter in the elevator or a random seating during wine hour may put you in the fabled catbird seat.
Extend your “fifteen minutes” with a stay in one of our inspirational Celebrity Suites. Designed personally by some of today’s biggest and brightest entertainers, these hotel suites offer the moon and the stars.

The Häagen-Dazs “Sweet Suite”
The luxurious Häagen-Dazs “Sweet Suite” offers hotel guests a unique and whimsical escape, indulging the senses in flavor and style. Bathed in vanilla and caramel colors, the true artistry of the “Sweet Suite” is in the details, from “flavored” candles in chocolate, vanilla and dulce de leche, to the bed’s handcrafted headboard shaped like the Häagen-Dazs cartouche, to a waffle-textured bed throw, to a specially made plush Häagen-Dazs bath robe.
The room’s main attraction is the “Sweet Spot,” a custom designed ice cream cabinet filled with both classic Häagen-Dazs ice cream flavors, ice cream bars and new releases such as the Haagen-Dazs Reserve Series. The cabinet is stocked with bowls, scoops and spoons and, best of all, guests can enjoy as many complimentary pints as they desire.

A portion of each “Sweet Suite” guest’s tab will be donated to the Häagen-Dazs ice cream charity of choice, Delancey Street Foundation.

The Suite was designed by local Bay Area interior design firm Marsh & Clark Design.

Kathy Griffin’s D-List
Hotel Triton’s latest Celebrity Suite combines sleek elegance and chic sensibility with a touch of sex appeal for the guest who desires life’s finer pleasures. In a recent episode of Kathy’s hit series, “My Life on the D-List,” Ms. Griffin and Mike Nielsen (known to viewers as her ‘Gay Visionary’) traveled to San Francisco to design an inspired suite at the Hotel Triton.

The making of this luxurious hotel suite into a reality was the subject for an entire episode in the show’s second season. Kathy and Mike began with wall-to-wall, floor to ceiling white suede drapes and took it from there. If you’re looking to find inner peace or feel like a million bucks, Kathy’s suite is a good move. With a color palate ranging from pearl to chocolate to sage green, this suite is a fabulous vehicle for sheer indulgence from Kathy Griffin and the Hotel Triton.

The Black Magic Bedroom by Carlos Santana
The art, music and vision of legendary guitarist Carlos Santana are imbued in every detail of this serene and subtle designer suite. Textile artist Michael Rios created a Technicolor tapestry of Santana’s most heartfelt and intense imagery, bringing vitality and a sense of Latin heritage to both bed and bath. At once otherworldly and earthbound, the Black Magic Bedroom inspires a peaceful, yet invigorating energy, much like the man himself.

The J. Garcia Suite by Jerry Garcia
Get into a groove in the J. Garcia Suite. Created by the late, great Grateful Dead lead man Jerry Garcia, this suite pulses with good vibrations. The same luxurious silk fabrics used in the J. Garcia fashion line flow over onto our upholstery and the sinfully indulgent duvet bedcover. The self-portrait hanging among his many original watercolors and the autographed wall add a personal touch that is inspired Jerry. The J. Garcia Suite is a must for the Deadhead in your life.

The Wyland Suite by Wyland
Prominent ocean artist Wyland wanted to give Triton guests a truly inspired experience by guiding them into an undersea escape of real and rendered sea life. This charismatic and prolific artist hand-picked lithographs and furniture from his private collection. They’re recast here at the Hotel Triton in liquid blues, soft greens and fluid violets in order to offer a celestial visit to the deep. Wyland’s suite completes the connection to Mother Nature and Father Neptune with the same earth-conscious amenities found throughout the hotel, such as air and water conservation and filtration systems, biodegradable soap and shampoo, all natural cotton linens and energy efficient lighting.

King Triton Suite
Designed by King Triton, in honor of his kingdom, Atlantis, shimmering underwater blues, silvers, and greens abound in this luxuriously inspiring setting. Part the silver bead curtain to find yourself in the grooviest Jacuzzi tub in San Francisco, complete with a secret television you can watch while you soak. A beautiful king bed with fabric beach ball pillows and magic reading lights await, and the sitting area is ideal for entertaining a small group of friends.

http://www.hoteltriton.com/html/Suites.html

Eco Friendly Hotel Triton

The days of sacrificing style and comfort to be environmentally conscious are long gone. Hotel Triton is a pioneer and an inspiration, leading the hospitality industry in its efforts to preserve the planet. It all started with Hotel Triton’s one of a kind Eco-Floor™ launched in conjunction with Earth Day in the 1990s. In 2003, the hotel spread its eco-practices to all floors and fostered alliances with organizations such as Trust for Public Land, Green Fusion, Collage Foundation and Happy Planet. Hotel Triton has integrated practices such as a sophisticated waste recycling program, biodegradable cleaning products, recycled paper, and organic coffee. Hotel Triton’s environmental efforts became the inspiration and blueprint for Kimpton Hotel’s eco-program in 2005, which is now being implemented at all Kimpton Hotels nationwide.

Just a few of the ways we’re eco-friendly at the Hotel Triton:

• Our linen and towel re-use program reduces laundry detergent and water use by 25%.
• All rooms on our 7th Floor Eco Floor have water saving devices, water filtration systems, and air filtration/purifiers.
• The Hotel Triton Energy Efficiency Program has outfitted our entire hotel with motion sensors wherever possible.
• Our extensive recycling program helps the hotel recycle 60% of our waste. Guest recycling receptacles have been placed in all guestrooms so that guests also can recycle.
• Morning Coffee Service. Individual milk portions have been happily replaced with milk purchased by the gallon, to reduce waste from packaging. Disposable stirrers and cups have been replaced with teaspoons and mugs. Napkins are made from recycled paper.
• Printing. All new hotel collateral and paper is 100% recycled and using soy-based inks.
• Office paper here at the Hotel Triton is printed on both sides, and then recycled. We use recycled toner. The Hotel Triton is also in an on-going move to paperless, using Internet-based reports to reduce paper waste.
• All cleaning agents and chemicals used to clean guestrooms have been replaced by non-toxic, environmentally safe products. This has assisted us in the elimination of bleach and ammonia based products.
• Paint: Replacement of all paints and solvents with eco-friendly paints (low VOC).
• Landfill Use Reduction. All usable hotel items are donated to local non-profit organizations (furniture, mattresses, artwork, equipment, a/c units, refrigerators, linens and towels, lost-and-found items, wall coverings, etc.).
• In-House Laundry. Our commercial washer and dryer have been replaced by energy and water-efficient equipment along with the use of environmentally safe detergents.
• Air conditioning and in-room minibars have been replaced with energy-efficient models.
• Employee Areas. Disposable cups have been eliminated from the break room, and metal laundry hangers are returned to the uniform laundry company in an extensive recycling program.

http://www.hoteltriton.com/html/ecorooms.html

The inspired amenities at our San Francisco boutique hotel are as unique as our guests

Zany and energetic, the boutique Hotel Triton is a delightful San Francisco accommodation poised on the edge without being swallowed by serious business or touristy kitsch. An inspired entrance graced by dramatic floor-to-ceiling “Laughing Pillars” of gold, teal and purple, a lobby adorned by a dreamy hand-painted mythological mural in blues, aquamarine, mauve and plum. Elevators filled with music open to serene hallways full of rotating art exhibits.

Hotel Triton makes excursionists feel they’ve arrived home at last. Inspired to leave the mundane behind at our vibrant San Francisco hotel, where guests delight in expecting the unexpected.

Exciting and refreshing surprises at the San Francisco Hotel Triton:

• Personalized room preferences and welcome amenities for Kimpton InTouch guest loyalty members
• Complimentary wireless Internet access throughout the entire hotel and Creative Zone meeting room
• Manager’s hosted wine reception every evening featuring Kimpton’s signature Wines of the World. During this nightly wine hour, we also offer tarot card readings.
• Coffee and tea served every morning in the lobby.
• Freshly baked cookies at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. daily
• On-site 24-hour workout facility for those 2:00 a.m. urges to “work it!” Features Stairmaster, treadmill, stationary bikes and free weights. We also offer passes for a minimal fee to a local, more extensive workout facility.
• Complimentary NY Times
• 24-hour business center (nominal fee)
• Room service from the adjacent Café de la Presse
• 24-hour valet parking with in and out privileges; $38/night + tax, subject to change
• Complimentary morning town car services upon request to downtown / Financial District
• Rotating art gallery on mezzanine, featuring hot local San Francisco artists
• Hotel Triton presents a 100% non-smoking environment. Smoking is prohibited anywhere in Hotel Triton.

ARTworkSF Gallery has supported the efforts of local Bay area artists for 15 years through its exhibits program, bringing a fresh approach to the art gallery world by taking fine art out of the conventional gallery space and into the community.

The ARTworkSF Gallery in Union Square (San Francisco) is the hub of over 28 venues and presents over 100 artists annually and features monthly thematic exhibits in addition to solo shows. Together, ARTworkSF and Hotel Triton mount 3 month long thematic shows, building community, and contributing to the culture and beauty of San Francisco.

Kimpton InTouch
The Hotel Triton keeps detailed records of each guest’s favorite form of inspiration in San Francisco such as artists, museums, galleries, theaters, bands, music venues, and places of worship. The staff will ask guests “what inspires you most about San Francisco?” or “What inspires you at Hotel Triton?” We use this information to customize the guest’s next stay.

There’s nothing ordinary about San Francisco, California; Hotel Triton is an extraordinary destination in the heart of our beautiful, exciting city.

http://www.hoteltriton.com/html/ServicesAmenities.html

Hotel Triton – A Pet Friendly Hotel in Downtown San Francisco

We are constantly inspired by our guests, especially the four-legged ones. The Hotel Triton, a Kimpton Hotel, not only caters to the people, but to the animals as well. Consistently listed among the top pet friendly hotels in San Francisco and across the US, we offer special pet packages as well as beds, bowls and treats.

Please note: Pets are not allowed on the Eco-Floor or in Suites. This is to offer an allergy free/pet free zone to our guests preferring such, and in the case of the Celebrity Suites, to protect the invaluable celebrity paraphernalia we have been gifted.

http://www.hoteltriton.com/html/petfriendly.html

KimptonKids

We love guests of all shapes and sizes – but especially kids. No kidding!! Our program, KimptonKids, makes it easier for families to travel by already having on hand the items you dislike packing, plus recommendations for kid-oriented activities and services in our respective cities. We know travel is exciting and we aim to make each young guest feel special while grant them fond memories of their adventures on the road.

We offer the following amenities and services to make your family vacation stress-free:

For Babies

• Cribs or Playards are available for complimentary loan (request at time of reservation)
• All restaurants offer highchairs and booster seats, or you can have one delivered to your room for in-room dining
• In-room child safety kits include outlet covers, toilet latches and nightlights

For Kids

• Each child is greeted with a special KimptonKids welcome gift
• Comment cards just for kids are provided to tell us what they liked about their stay
• A list of kid-friendly activities in the area includes parks, restaurants and enriching classes
• Child-size animal print robes are available for loan or purchase

For All Kids:
Concierge or front desk staff can make arrangements for the following services:

• Accredited babysitting services
• 24-hour on-call pediatrician
• Local car rental company offering child safety seats
• Rental of additional items such as strollers

http://www.hoteltriton.com/html/kimpton-kids.html

For some incredible photos, check out this page:

http://www.hoteltriton.com/html/virtualtour.html#

I especially love the pink room!

Hotel Monaco

Hotel Monaco
501 Geary Street
San Francisco, CA 94102

· MAP OF HOTEL
· AMENITIES
· AVAILABILITY
· PHOTOS

Hotel Description:

The 201 room Hotel Monaco has been carefully designed to offer the best of all worlds to the savvy traveler- a rare combination of high style, sophistication, and exemplary service, all at a value for the guest. The story of the Hotel Monaco is “Sophisticated World Travel”. The Hotel Monaco main lobby is characterized by high ceilings, graced by impressive two-story French inglenook fireplace and hand painted ceiling domes that feature a colorful compass-rose design. The registration desk is playfully patterned after a classically styled steamer trunk. Our grand staircase leads from our reception area to the second floor and lower lobby area. All 201 guest rooms including 35 suites are lushly appointed with pattern/texture and light interiors by noted Los Angeles designer Cheryl Rowley. 24 hours prior to local hotel time of 6pm. Guests who do not cancel prior to 24 hours before local hotel time of 6pm will be charged a one night’s room plus tax. Cancellation policy is subject to change. An early departure fee in an amount up to one night’s room and tax may apply.

Location Description

Just one block away from nearby theatres/American Conservatory Theatre (ACT) and the Curran Theatre and two blocks west from Union Square. A short walk to Chinatown, Moscone Convention Center Yerba Buena Gardens, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMoMA), Financial District.

Photos:

Lobby

Lobby

Lobby

Standard Room

Standard Room

Standard Room

Number of floors: 7
Number of rooms: 201
Time zone: PST
Areas served: San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland

Hotel Amenities

AM/FM Alarm Clock

Concierge

Handicapped Rooms/Facilities

Mini Bar

No Smoking Rooms/Facilities

Room Service

Television with Cable

Bar/Lounge

Courtesy Car

Express Checkout

Modem Lines in Room

Pets Allowed

Safe Deposit Box

Laundry/Valet Services

Business Center

24 Hour Front Desk

Hairdryers Available

Meeting/Banquet Facilities

Restaurant

Fitness Center or Spa

VIP Rooms/Services

Area Attractions:

Area Info. -Just one block away from nearby theatres, American Conservatory Theatre (ACT) and the Curran Theatre -Two blocks west from Union Square the center for the city’s finest retail shopping, dining, and entertainment. -Two blocks from the Powell Street Cable Car Line which travels to Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, and Ghirardelli Square. -Walking distance to Chinatown, Westfield Shopping Center, Moscone Convention Center, art museums, the Embarcadero, and the financial district.

Restaurants:

Restaurants: Grand Cafe, a French-California brasserie featuring contemporary French cuisine influenced by earthy seasonal flavors and wonderful local ingredients. The menu’s diverse array of fresh seafood, roasted meats, and theatrical desserts satisfies every appetite. Set in an architecturally restored, turn-of-the-century ballroom with 30 foot high ceilings, the cafe reflects the grandeur of old Europe with touches of art nouveau and deco and exciting collections of commissioned murals, fanciful sculptures, decorative art and faux finishes from a variety of local artists. The adjoining Petit Cafe with a lamp-lit cherry-wood bar, wood burning oven and original pen and ink drawings along the walls, provides the perfect backdrop for a casual meal or cocktail, before or after the theater. Grand Caf

Recreation:

Health Club and Spa Facilities: Fitness Facility – Complimentary use of fitness center including stationary bicycles, stairmaster, weight training stations and free weights. Hours of operation – 6am to 10pm The concierge would be happy to arrange for all guests activity needs: spa/salon, tennis/racquetball, running routes, hiking, bike trips, and golf tee times around San Francisco. There is no pool in the hotel but there is an 8 person whirlpool spa.

Sports and Recreation: 4 miles away from a public course. Baseball: AT&T Park home of the San Francisco Giants is 1 mile SE. Cisco Field home of the Oakland A’s is 10 miles east. Football: Monster Park Home of the San Francisco 49ers is 4 miles south. McAfee Coliseum home of the Oakland Raiders is 10 miles east. Basketball: Oracle Coliseum home of the Golden State Warriors is 10 miles west Sailing: 2 miles north are the piers launching sailboats, yachts, catamarans and cruise ships. Whale watching excursions, deep sea fishing expeditions, bay tours and sailing courses are all available nearby. Golden Gate Park offers stables, polo grounds, an archery range, and bike-skate-walk paths. Swimming pools are available within 3 blocks of the hotel – see concierge Sand beaches are less than 5 miles W or a trip to Angel Island is a 45 minute ferry boat adventure. Windsurfing and kiteboarding are incredibly popular sports in the bay. Windsurfing rentals and lessons are available at the piers 2 miles north. To surf some of the best breakers in northern California go west 5 miles or try some intermediate waves in Bolinas 25 miles NW on the coast. Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz boast excellent surfing for both beginning and advanced boarders 70 miles to the south. Extensive hiking and biking trails are located 10 miles to the northeast.

Room Info:
Queen Canopy -200 sq. ft. with 1 four poster canopy queen bed -Smaller than the other room types-considered the most intimate, romantic and dramatically decorated room with yellow and green striped wallpaper. Accommodates 2 people and does not fit a rollaway. Inside courtyard location with window shutters, room does not connect.

Queen Deluxe -234 sq. ft. with 1 queen bed and gray and white striped wall coverings. Accommodates 2 people and does not accommodate rollaway. Exterior and interior rooms – interior rooms have shutters – Some rooms connect to a:

Deluxe Suite Double Double Deluxe -250 sq. ft. with 2 double beds – some of the best pajama parties have been held in these rooms! Rooms feature yellow and green striped wall coverings. Some are handicapped accessible with roll-in showers. Accommodates 2 people and does not accommodate rollaway. Exterior side location with street views *some rooms connect to a:

DBDX King Deluxe -250 sq. ft. with 1 king bed. Rooms have great personality and award-winning decor, and feature yellow & green striped wall covering. Accommodates 2 people and does not accommodate rollaway. Exterior location with street view, does not connect to any other rooms.

Junior Suite -330-380 sq. ft. with king bed in oversized bedroom. Oversized rooms with sitting area and queen pullout sofa bed within room. Rooms feature yellow and green striped wall coverings. Some are handicapped accessible with lower shelves in the closet, bars in the bathrooms, sitting showers -no bathtubs. Accommodates 4 people and does not accommodate rollaway. Exterior location with view of Geary Street, does not connect to any rooms

Deluxe Suite -330-380 sq. ft. with king bed. Separate parlor area with living room -Accommodates 4 people. Suite does not have a view *some rooms connect to a:

Queen Deluxe Room Parlor Suite -500 sq. ft. with a king bed or Murphy bed in the oversized room, which also has sofa and table with 4 chairs in the sitting area. Accommodates 2 people and does not fit a rollaway. Views of Geary Street or the interior light well (no view in 1 suite).

1 PLST connects to a QNDX and can be sold as a two-room suite.

1 PLST – room 224 – has a 6-foot whirlpool Jacuzzi tub. The other 2 PLSTs have standard bathtubs. Monte Carlo suite with one king bed -450-525 sq. ft. with a king bed in bedroom -beautiful and elegant accommodations with award-winning detail.

Meeting Facilities:

Meeting Facilities: Conference Banquet Facilities/Meeting Rooms – -8,340 square feet of space includes 9 total meeting rooms. -Two 1575 square foot meeting rooms each divisible into two and one breakout room of 100 square feet accommodating 12 to 15 people. -Two meeting rooms with high ballroom ceilings totaling 2300 square feet combining the two rooms can accommodate up to 250 people theatre style or 150 for a sit down dinner. – Two executive board rooms both 400 square feet each. One is furnished with an oak conference table accommodating 12 people and the other which accommodates up to 20 people. — Full conference/private dining facilities and support services. Private dining up to 180/receptions up to 250. Meeting and groups for up to 120. http://www.ihsadvantage.com/h/hotelinfo/san_francisco/ca/us/23848/?pfs=343#trafficLogID=507208170&visited=true

Hotel Monaco San Francisco

San Francisco California

501 Geary Street San Francisco California 94102

Romantic Getaway!

With its warm, elegant decor, the Hotel Monaco, a Kimpton Hotel, is a uniquely romantic San Francisco hotel. Whether it’s for a week or a romantic weekend getaway, the Hotel Monaco makes a memorable vacation destination.

Property Description:

A glamorous luxury hotel in San Francisco, the Hotel Monaco offers style and comfort for the most discerning of travelers. With its French–inspired architecture and sensually rich décor, the Hotel Monaco, a Kimpton Hotel, will seduce and pamper you, allow you to indulge your senses.

Offering some of the finest accommodations of any hotel in San Francisco, the Hotel Monaco features 201 exquisitely decorated guest rooms, including 24 luxury suites.

Located just footsteps from our hotel in downtown San Francisco are Union Square, Moscone Convention Center, the downtown Financial District and the Theatre District, offering our guests an ideal location during their stay in the city.
Guest Room & Suite Features…
- Complimentary high-speed Internet access in select hotel rooms
- “Dreamiest” pillowtop beds in all the guestrooms
- Down pillows
- Whirlpool tubs found in the most of our hotel suites
- Canopy beds, some completely draped in a seductive, romantic style
- Warm, eclectic and highly detailed furnishings
- Private voice mail
- Fax machine
- Two-line telephones with computer dataport
- Television Internet access (WebTV)
- Nintendo on all televisions
- CD stereos
- “Om Away From Home” yoga program
- Gourmet treats in the fully-stocked honor bars
- “Forgot It? We’ve Got It!” essential travel items
- Amenities of home including coffeemakers with complimentary coffee, iron and ironing board, hairdryer and bathrobes in all hotel rooms
- Frette robes
- Nightly turn down service
- Cotton balls and Q-tips in every room
- Make-up mirrors
- In-room safes
- Aveda bath amenities
- We are a pet-friendly hotel
Services & Amenities…
- Services expected of a Mobil four star and AAA four diamond luxury hotel
- Complimentary morning coffee service from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. daily in our living room
- Complimentary high–speed Internet access in our lobby, meeting rooms and select guestrooms
- Complimentary daily newspaper delivered to your hotel room
- Complimentary limousine/town car to the financial and shopping districts (7 a.m. – 10 a.m., M–F)
- Fully accessible luxury hotel accommodations for people with disabilities; complies with ADA requirements
- Evening wine and cheese reception in our living room
- Fresh baked cookies in the afternoon
- Round–the–clock room service
- Complimentary use of our on–site luxury hotel health club
- On–site Spa Equilibrium
- Overnight shoeshine, valet/laundry and magazine library
- Business services available
- Full concierge services
- Safety deposit boxes
- Valet parking
- Express check–out
Location… Our downtown San Francisco location makes it makes it possible for guests to truly experience the wonder of the City with relative ease. A day here could include shopping near the Hotel Monaco at Union Square stores such as the upscale Saks Fifth Avenue, Williams Sonoma and Neiman Marcus, along with visits to select boutiques such as Burberry, Tiffany & Co. and Prada. Be sure to include lunch or afternoon fare at any of the delightful restaurants that dot San Francisco’s Union Square.
Praise…
The Hotel Monaco, a San Francisco boutique hotel, has been awarded some of the highest honors in the hotel industry, including:
- Mobil Four Star San Francisco Hotel
- AAA Four Diamond Award
- Travel and Leisure, Top 100 North American Hotels
- Conde Nast Traveler, Gold List Top 500 in the World
- Hospitality Design Magazine, Grand Prize – Gold Key Award
- Interiors Magazine, Grand Prize Winner – 17th Annual Designs Award
- Lodging Hospitality Magazine, First Place – Third Annual Design Awards

http://ca.accommodationsusa.com/hotelmonacosf.html

Check out this website for more around the world:

http://www.greatsmallhotels.com/gsh/eng/home.jsp

Opus Hotel – Vancouver:

Voted ‘Best of the Best’
One of the World’s Top 100 Hotels

- Condé Nast Traveler 2005 Magazine

Voted one of the Best 500 Hotels in the World

- Travel and Leisure Magazine 2006

One of Vancouver’s coolest hangouts.

- Wallpaper* Magazine

Uniquely stylish and always fresh, Opus Hotel Vancouver redefines the boutique hotel experience, blending contemporary design with warmth and intuitive service. Located in fashionable Yaletown, Opus Hotel is steps from the inner harbour, outdoor recreation and Vancouver’s best restaurants, spas and shops. The business and entertainment districts, Stanley Park, beaches and the Alaska cruise ship terminal are only a few minutes away.

Opus is a Vancouver hotel with ninety-six luxury guestrooms featuring vibrant colours, spa bathrooms and five lifestyle-inspired décor schemes. Guestrooms feature five unique décor schemes ranging from modern and minimalist to artful and eclectic, with comfort and style as the unifying elements.

Opus, a Vancouver hotel, provides the service and amenities of a luxury hotel within a stylish and intimate environment. This Vancouver hotel is home to bistro moderne Elixir and the dramatic Opus Bar. Opus was voted Best of the Best, one of the world’s top 100 hotels by readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine.

OPUS Hotel is found in the stylish Yaletown district of downtown Vancouver, an eight square block heritage preservation zone within walking distance of the city’s financial and retail centres. Locals and visitors alike are attracted here to some of downtown Vancouver’s finest restaurants, lounges, spas and fashion boutiques.

Enjoy a stroll, or go for a jog along the 15 km (9.3 mi) of waterfront seawall ringing nearby False Creek Inlet. Or take a short water taxi ride past marinas, parks, and waterfront dwellings to neighbouring Granville Island, a unique urban market.

Opus is a Vancouver hotel with ninety-six luxury guestrooms featuring vibrant colours, spa bathrooms and five lifestyle-inspired décor schemes. Guestrooms feature five unique décor schemes ranging from modern and minimalist to artful and eclectic, with comfort and style as the unifying elements. Opus is pleased to provide a smoke free environment in all common areas, as well as in each of its 96 guest rooms.

• High Speed wireless and wired internet access available throughout the hotel
• 2 line cordless speakerphone with voicemail
• Laptop compatible in-room safe
• Daily morning newspaper
• Sleek work desk with ergonomic chair
• Same day dry cleaning service
• 24 hour room service
• Secure valet parking
• Complimentary luxury car service in downtown area
• 24 hour Business Centre
• 24 hour Fitness Centre
• Stylish and Functional Meeting rooms

• Lifestyle Concierge service
• 24 hour room service
• Fully stocked Mini-bar
• 27″ Television and Sony Playstation
• CD player and radio alarm clock
• L’Occitane amenities & Oxia Oxygen
• Frette bathrobes
• Egyptian cotton sheets & down-filled duvets and pillows
• Daily morning newspaper
• Same day dry cleaning service
• Hairdryer, iron and ironing board
  in every room
• Juliet Balconies and fireplaces
  in select rooms
• 24 hour Fitness Centre
• Complimentary luxury car service in Downtown area

Check out this link for information and amenities in a number of different types of rooms:

http://www.opushotel.com/rooms_suites.html

Opus Deluxe Garden Terrace Room:

Executive Suite Living Room:

Opus Penthouse Bedroom:

^TM

Introducing Lifestyle ConciergeTM by Opus
What’s a girl (or guy) to do in Vancouver? Just ask one of our Lifestyle Concierges.

At our Vancouver Hotel we know that the tastes and lifestyles of our guests are diverse. That’s why we offer five unique guestroom dŽcor schemes to choose from. Now, with our innovative new Lifestyle ConciergeTM program, we offer a choice of five fictional guides to help you make the most of your stay in Vancouver.

Inspired by our five guestroom dŽcor schemes, these guides represent a spectrum of lifestyles ranging from old school to avant-garde. Into the arts & culture scene? Check out Bob & Carol’s recommendations. Feel like taking a walk on the wild side? Billy’s your man. Whatever your scene, Opus has a recommendation just right for you. Simply click on the photos or drop-down menu to find your match, and your guide will share their favourite things to do in Vancouver.

Need a reservation or more recommendations? Scroll down to email your concierge directly, and he or she will respond within 24 hours. For general information visit the Basics section. Most recommendations are within walking distance from Opus or a short ride away in our luxury 7 series BMW.

General

• 96 guestrooms and suites
• Concierge services
• Meeting and catering services for up to 50 guests
• Fully-equipped business centre open 24 hours
• High Speed wireless and wired internet access available throughout the hotel
• Secured underground valet parking
• Non smoking rooms available
• Wheelchair-accessible rooms
• Currency exchange
• Safety deposit boxes and in-room safes
• Translation services
• Pets welcome with day care and walking services

Dining & Refreshment

• Elixir Bar and Restaurant, a contemporary French brasserie
• Opus Bar featuring cocktails and tapas
• Authentic Espresso Bar
• 24 hour room service

Transportation

• Complimentary hotel car service in our 7 Series BMW to all downtown locations, 7 days/week
• Complimentary full suspension mountain bikes with helmets

Entertainment & Activities

• Restaurant/theatre/tour and excursion bookings
• Shopping and attraction suggestions
• Bicycle, rollerblade, and boat rentals arranged
• Fitness room open 24 hours
• Full service fitness centre affiliation
• Personal trainers arranged

Business

• Business centre featuring two fully-equipped workstations
• Airport check-in kiosk for select airlines
• Secretarial and business services
• Courier services
• Computer, fax, printer, and cellular phone rental available
• Audio-visual services

Personal

• Personal shopping
• Babysitting services
• Shoeshine
• Umbrellas
• Same-day drycleaning, pressing, and laundry services
• Pets welcome, day care and walking services arranged

• Medical, dental, and chiropractor services arranged
• Massage and physiotherapy services arranged
• Full spa services arranged in room or at affiliated spa
• Complimentary full suspension mountain bikes with helmets

http://www.opushotel.com/opus.html

Now I hoped you enjoyed this little tour of just a few of the boutique hotels available here and in Canada – they are all around the world, and many aren’t much more than their chain cousins, and much more fun, funky, romantic, or whatever you want – so bring the kids, your pets, or a “friend” and enjoy yourself!

Weary Travelers Rejoice! Deluxe sleep is here

Being a lover of fine sheets and bedding (I insist on at least 600 thread count, Egyptian cotton sateen sheets at home), and/or silk quilts/shams, I found these following articles to be of great interest. I haven’t traveled in a while, and I was tired of scratchy, stiff sheets, and flat, lumpy pillows. I always had to ask for at least two or three extra pillows just for me. I have about ten one my own bed, and several quilts/duvets. I also have a very luxurious pillow top mattress from Ethan Allen, courtesy of my ex-mother-in-law, which she gave me after the divorce, along with some bed toppers and puffy mattress pads. Apparently though, hotels have figured this out, and upgraded their wares, although not perhaps to my home standards, but maybe enough for comfort while away from home. Now, if only a lucky fairy would come and deposit some money or a free trip in my lap – preferably to Bora Bora…

First up: My favorite destination, and where I lived for two years from 2000-2002, Hawaii!

Hotels want to put you to sleep

The latest tactic in luring guests is to give them a luxurious new bed for a great night’s rest

CRAIG T. KOJIMA / CKOJIMA@STARBULLETIN.COM

By Allison Schaefers
aschaefers@starbulletin.com

The latest salvo in the hotel industry’s long-running bed wars is being heard in Hawaii, as Marriott International Inc.’s chainwide swapout of 628,000 beds reaches the islands.

The company’s $190 million global overhaul is using 30 million yards of soft, plushy fabric, or enough to stretch more than two-thirds of the way around the world.

The industry’s bed wars began in 1999, with the introduction of the Heavenly Bed by Westin Hotels and Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide.

The thick, plush mattresses were an instant hit with hotel guests, long used to sleeping on the kinds of wholesale beds that make a person glad to get home.

Then, the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed, the Hilton Serenity and Suite Dreams beds and a host of other dream beds came forward.

“A good night’s sleep has become the foundation of selling hotel rooms,” said Joe McInerney, president and chief executive officer of the American Hotel & Lodging Association.

Marriott went undercover with their market research to find out what consumers wanted in a bed. The company used labs to help determine the formula to give consumers better sleep than most would find at home.

From the dreams of consumers, Marriott fashioned its Revive bed — a downy confection complete with 300-thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, seven feathery pillows, a white duvet and a colorful bed scarf.

The Revive bed roll-out, which began in 2005 and will become complete this summer, is more about substance than fluff for the hotel chain which operates approximately 2,400 hotels worldwide under eight different brands.

Each will introduce an upgraded bed, although the extent of its luxury will vary with the brand.

Guests at the Waikiki Beach Marriott, where the Egyptian cotton and feather pillow dressed bed became available earlier this year, already have boosted customer satisfaction surveys by seven points, said Ed Fuller, president and managing director of international lodging for Marriott International.

“We set out to find out what our customers wanted and that’s what we have delivered,” Fuller said.

Hotel chains have been installing luxurious new beds over the past few years in an effort to lure guests. Above, new double beds in rooms at the Waikiki Beach Marriott in Waikiki.

The new Marriott bed is beyond fantasy, said Amy Terada, vice president of marketing for Pleasant Holidays LLC, Hawaii’s largest wholesaler.

“I slept in it last night,” Terada said. “It’s a wonderful, wonderful bed. It looks so inviting and comfortable that you just want to jump in and bury yourself.”

If there’s an active bed war, Terada said she’d proclaim Marriott’s new offering the winner.

“I’ve slept in the Heavenly bed and the Sweet Sleeper bed and I prefer Marriott’s new bed,” she said.

Despite wide variations in consumer preference, Starwood and Sheraton can handle the competition, said Keith Vieira, a senior vice president with Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide.

The Westin Heavenly Bed and the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Beds, which will be in every Hawaii Starwood hotel room by next year, have been so successful with consumers that many have elected to take them home.

“We sell about 200 of these beds a week to guests,” Vieira said.

Business at Westin, Starwood and Sheraton is unlikely to change as a result of Marriott’s decision to join the bed wars.

“We aren’t worried about Marriott’s newest bed,” Vieira said. “It just validates that we had a good idea and you know any good idea will be copied.”

Due to the massive costs in bedding upgrades, Marriott’s Revive bed might just be the last of the cycle.

“We’ve seen the end of the changing of the beds for a considerable period because it isn’t cheap,” McInerney said, adding that he doesn’t expect any more major bed wars for the next four to five years.

When it comes to national brands, the bed wars might be over — but they’re just beginning for boutique and off-brand properties, said Mike Paulin, president of Aqua Hotels and Resorts. That chain is in the process of renovating and changing the bedding at four out of eight of their properties.

“The emphasis on bedding in Waikiki has changed dramatically over the last 20 years,” Paulin said. “People spend a third of their time sleeping and they want a cozy experience.”

Aqua has invested in top-of- the-line commercial bedding for all of its properties, Paulin said.

“That’s what our customers want, and we have to give it to them or be satisfied with losing some of our occupancy or settling for lower rates,” he said.

http://starbulletin.com/2006/04/03/business/story01.html

Although, gasp!, not everyone is apparently of a like mind:

Détente in the Hotel Bed Wars

By CHRISTOPHER ELLIOTT

Published: January 31, 2006

THE hotel “bed wars” are over. But are business travelers the winners?

Most frequent travelers would probably say they are, citing the remarkable evolution of hotel beds from the no-nonsense affairs of the late 1990’s — just mattresses, sheets and bedspreads — to the superpremium sleep “experiences” of today.

Harley R. Myler, an engineering professor at Lamar University in Beaumont, Tex., is not among them. When he checked into the Marriott University Park in Tucson for a recent academic conference, he decided the bed wars had gone too far.

“There were several pillows and bedspreads,” he said. “I didn’t know what they were for. I didn’t know what to do with them.”

He added, “I would much prefer that they offered free high-speed Internet.”

Marriott International, like virtually every other hotel chain, recently upgraded its bedding — one of the final salvos in the bed wars that began in 1999 with the introduction of the Heavenly Bed by Westin Hotels and Resorts, a unit of Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide. The Marriott beds feature 300-thread-count sheets, a feathered mattress topper, stylish pillow shams, a decorative bed scarf and extra pillows.

Perhaps the last salvo in the bed wars was fired earlier this month, when Hilton Hotels announced a $1 billion effort that included the addition of its branded Serenity Bed to many of its properties, with its signature mattress pads, down pillows, linens, decorative bed pillows and bolsters. Hilton has offered its own branded bed since 2001.

Most hotel executives concede that the war is now over. That is to say, every hotel chain that believed it could benefit from upgrading its bedding has probably done so.

The question now is, Have their most frequent customers also benefited?

Mr. Myler does not think so. He sent a letter shortly after his stay in Tucson to that Marriott hotel’s general manager, Joe Armbrust, complaining about the surplus pillows. Mr. Armbrust agreed that the pillows “seem to be overkill,” but he said that customers had “expressed a desire to have the room similar to what they have at home.” In other words, the guests made Marriott do it.

But Mr. Myler maintains he never asked for the beds, and Westin, which started the bed wars, says its customers didn’t, either.

“We wanted to differentiate ourselves from the competition,” said Sue A. Brush, Westin’s senior vice president, who was the vice president of marketing when the Heavenly Bed was introduced. “It wasn’t anything that came through in the research.”

Roger G. Hill II, the chief executive of the Gettys Group, an interior design company specializing in the hospitality industry, agreed that customers had not clamored for new beds, nor had they asked for some of the more frivolous amenities that many properties now offer. “I’ve never seen a survey where guests said, ‘I want four pillows instead of two,’ ” he said, adding that some of the recent bedding packages were, in his opinion, “over the top.”

The argument that hotel guests, in general, and business travelers, in particular, demanded bigger and more luxurious beds is difficult to sustain. A much easier argument to make is that the hotel marketing departments were eager to join the bed wars, and that once they did, many of their customers approved of the changes.

By the time Marriott got around to remaking its beds last year, it had ample evidence that its customers would go along with the improvements. The company’s customer research confirmed that the new beds were better than the old. “We also had a chance to one-up Westin,” said Michael E. Jannini, executive vice president for brand management at Marriott. “And I think we did.”

The bed wars, it turns out, were a sound investment for the hotel industry. Not only have guests endorsed the changes by rewarding better-bedded hotels with their business, but last year, Westin sold $10 million in bedding accessories to its customers. Hilton opened a new online store, hiltontohome.com, where guests can buy things like linens or clock radios. Hilton would not reveal its sales figures, but Bill Brooks, its vice president for product development, said the site had done better than expected. He said he thought consumers were the winners in the bed wars.

Some lodging analysts say that is a commonly held belief in the hotel business. “Most travelers seem to be extremely positive about the improved quality of beds and bedding,” said Bjorn Hanson, an industry analyst with PricewaterhouseCoopers. In fact, the bedding revolution has led to changes in the way people sleep at home, with guests modernizing their bedrooms after sleeping in hotel beds.

Mr. Hansen knows that not all guests are pleased. “Some travelers do not like duvet-style bedding or very high or low beds.”

I am not one of those people. Five years ago, when Hilton introduced its new bed, I bought one (strictly for research purposes), which persuaded me that the bed wars were a positive development.

But like Mr. Myler, I am concerned about the excesses of the conflict — the unnecessary pillows and bedspreads. Business travelers may not be victims of a bed war, as he suggests, but they are also not the obvious winners. That designation belongs to the hotels with upgraded bedding, which are now finding that a room that offers a better night’s sleep can also command a higher rate.

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/01/31/business/31soff.html

Four Points by Sheraton Turns up the Heat in Hotel Bed Wars; Investing $13 million to Roll Out its Four Comfort Bed^(SM) to 100-plus Properties in North America

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. – Oct. 14, 2004 — Let the feathers fly! Five years after Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT) spurred a hotel bedding revolution with the introduction of the now iconic Westin Heavenly Bed, the hotel giant is betting on a bedding battle in the mid-scale arena. Four Points by Sheraton, Starwood’s moderately priced brand, is investing $13 million to roll out its new Four Comfort Bed(SM) to all of its 100-plus properties in North America by July, 2005. The Four Points by Sheraton Four Comfort Bed, already in hotels in New York, Denver and Portland, is the first new branded bed in its class.

Following in the footsteps of the Westin Heavenly Bed(R) and sister brand Sheraton’s popular Sweet Sleeper Bed(R), the Four Comfort Bed is a multi-layered, cozy cocoon designed to pamper guests. The four key comfort points of the Four Comfort Bed are: a deluxe 11.5″ Sealy Posturepedic(R) Plush Top Sleep System featuring a 9-inch high Shock Abzzorber(R) foundation; four large luxurious pillows including two feather/down and two Euro Square lounging pillows; a decorative and inviting cushioned duvet; and, crisp cotton blend sheets. The duvet features an attractive plaid design available in a rich palette of colors to match each hotel’s decor. Additional bed accoutrements include a bed skirt, mattress pad, plush blanket, and a decorative pillow featuring the brand’s signature compass logo.

Five years and three beds later….it’s the bed, stupid!

Though the hospitality industry is in the business of selling sleep, hotels were notorious for cutting corners on beds, committing a multitude of bedding sins from foam mattresses to cheap pillows to polyester bedspreads in shades of eggplant. Then in 1998, Starwood issued a wake up call to the industry when it launched the luxurious, all-white Westin Heavenly Bed. The bed was so popular, guests insisted on taking it home, and a retail business was born. Today, Westin has sold some 30,000 Heavenly pillows, sheets, duvets and beds. The success of the Heavenly Bed spawned the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed, introduced in 2003. Both brands have experienced significant improvements in Guest Satisfaction Scores and higher average daily rates since introducing the beds, and Sheraton and Westin continue to earn market share from their competitors.

“Our sister brands have enjoyed terrific success with their new beds, and Four Points by Sheraton plans to replicate this success in the moderately priced hotel segment,” said Hoyt Harper II, the brand’s senior vice president. “The Four Comfort Bed is a real competitive advantage in our class, and we think one that will inspire guests to check out of our competitors, and into Four Points by Sheraton.”

Four Points by Sheraton – On a Roll!

Four Points by Sheraton continues to aggressively expand with new hotel openings and conversions in choice urban, resort and suburban locations such as New York City, Hyannis and Ann Arbor, Michigan. Four Comfort Beds can be found in several of the brand’s newest properties including the 158-room Four Points by Sheraton Manhattan Chelsea, the 595-room Four Points by Sheraton Denver Southeast and the 150-room Four Points by Sheraton Meriden, CT. In late 2003, a new enhanced amenity program was introduced, featuring free high-speed Internet access in all guestrooms, complimentary bottled water, and upgraded bathroom products.

Four Points by Sheraton, with more than 136 properties in 17 countries, is owned by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. and is consistently rated as a top performer in the mid-priced category by Business Travel News’ “Annual U.S. Hotel Chain Survey.” Four Points by Sheraton hotels are located at airports, in mid-sized cities, leisure destinations, and business and commercial centers. Our hotels cater to business and leisure travelers as well as meeting planners seeking a quality, mid-priced and value-oriented product. In addition to the high-speed Internet access services, key features include an on-premise restaurant serving cooked-to-order breakfast, complimentary bottled water, room service with a 30-minute delivery guarantee, swimming pools, fitness facilities, business services and meeting space with catering facilities.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with more than 750 properties in more than 80 countries and 110,000 employees at its owned and managed properties.

http://www.hotel-online.com/News/PR2004_4th/Oct04_FourPointsBeds.html

Barry Sternlicht’s Bedding Revolution Continues;
Sheraton Hotel Owners Investing More Than $75 Million in New Beds – The Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. – Sept. 23, 2003 — Sleeping on the job is usually a no-no, but executives at Sheraton Hotels & Resorts have slumbered on hundreds of mattresses, pillows and bed linens to develop the brand’s newest signature: the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed(sm). The hotel giant and its owners and franchisees are spending more than $75 million to put 110,000 new beds in 200 hotels in North America.

WordPress.com Tags: Bedding, hotels, bedding wars, hotel amenities, travel

The Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed

Some may say that Barry Sternlicht is obsessed with helping people get a good night’s sleep. The Chairman and CEO of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT), Sheraton’s parent, has spent the last five years upgrading the beds in his hotel rooms. In 1998 when he launched W Hotels he modeled the brand’s bed after his own bed at home. In 1999, Sternlicht started a bedding revolution when he threw out all the old beds at Westin Hotels and introduced the now iconic Westin Heavenly Bed(R). Now he’s tackled Starwood’s most global and oldest brand, Sheraton, and developed a luxurious multi-layered custom designed bed that features an 11.5 inch thick, high coil count Sealy Posturepedic(R) Plush Top mattress, down and allergy sensitive pillows and crisp cotton sheets. In a nod to Sheraton’s classic aesthetic, the beds feature a selection of duvet patterns inspired by timeless tattersall checks, hound’s-tooth and pinstripe patterns in rich color tones.

“I have always been somewhat astounded by how little hotel companies invest in their beds considering that our primary product is a good night’s sleep,” said Sternlicht. “When we launched the Heavenly Bed in 1999, other hotel executives thought we were crazy. Four years later Westin’s guest satisfaction scores, market share and global growth are up significantly, and we’re selling our Heavenly Beds everyday to our guests. I am just thrilled to introduce a great new bed to our classic brand and improving the sleeping experience of more travelers.”

By the end of this year, more than 50,000 new beds will be installed in hotels throughout North America – accounting for 70% of Sheraton’s total room inventory here. By the end 2004, all Sheraton hotels will feature the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed, totaling more than 70,000 rooms in 200 hotels. New beds will also be installed in London and Latin America.

The Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed is the latest in a series of enhancements designed to elevate the brand to the top of the upscale hotel segment. Since 1998, more than more than $1 billion has been invested in upgrading the Sheraton brand, primarily in renovations. Sheraton’s design team, recruited from Ralph Lauren, Holly Hunt, and Williams-Sonoma has revamped Sheraton’s room design and created a portfolio of five lifestyle guestroom designs that are rolling out around the country.

“During my 30-year career at Sheraton I have never seen the brand in such excellent shape with so much momentum,” says Bob Cotter, Starwood’s Chief Operating Officer. “Just last year we introduced The Sheraton Service Promise, and this year Sheraton rolled out a new ad campaign, a great new room design and tougher brand standards throughout the United States. And now with the roll-out of thousands of Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Beds, there has never been a better time to spend the night with Sheraton and see for yourself.”

The Sheraton Service Promise, promises if you’re not satisfied, just tell us and we’ll take care of it. Here is how the Sheraton Service Promise works: if a guest should happen to have a problem during their stay, they need only tell a hotel associate and they’ll immediately take steps to correct the problem. Plus, the guest will automatically receive compensation for their problem – an extra step to ensure the guest is satisfied. Since the introduction of The Sheraton Service Promise, guest satisfaction scores have reached the highest in the brand’s history, guest complaints have declined and fewer problems are being reported.

“We made a promise to our guests to build upon our commitment to service and provide comfort and style with our new room design,” says Norman MacLeod, Executive Vice President for Sheraton Hotels & Resorts. “The Sheraton Sweet Sleeper is just yet another reason for travelers to take a new look at the new Sheraton.”

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with more than 740 properties in more than 80 countries and 105,000 employees at its owned and managed properties.

http://hotel-online.com/News/PR2003_3rd/Sep03_SheratonBed.html

Although now it looks like since the “bedding wars” are over, new :wars” are shaping up, this time in lobby services, and other extras:

Hotel Bed Wars Giving Way to the Breakfast War;
Doughnuts, Coffee a Thing of the Past

By Glenn Jeffers, Chicago TribuneMcClatchy-Tribune Regional News

Nov. 8, 2007 –Perhaps you noticed a change in how you slept during your last hotel stay. Maybe the mattress was bigger or the sheets softer and smoother.

If you did, then you became an unsuspecting participant in the “Bed Wars,” a years-long, multimillion-dollar race to upgrade bedding in the hotel industry that, at the very least, provided guests with a better night’s sleep.

Now Chicago-area hotels are trying to lure guests to a revamped service: They’re adding organic ingredients to menus and swapping out in-room coffee makers for espresso machines.

They’re building a better breakfast.

“This is the next step to the ‘Bed Wars,’ promoting breakfast as an amenity,” says Joe McInerney, president of the Washington-based American Hotel & Lodging Association. “It gives them something to promote. We gave you a good bed, now we’re going to give you a wholesome breakfast. The customer wins.”

Indeed, many big-name hotel chains in Chicago have upgraded their breakfast options in their restaurants and room service in the last year. The Hyatt Regency Chicago’s “Signature Breakfast” offers French press coffee, a flight of smoothies served in a 2-ounce shot glass and dishes such as poached egg casseroles and chipotle-infused corned beef hash.

In April, the Omni Chicago launched “The Art of Breakfast, swapping out its usual ingredients for cage-free eggs, organic shade-grown Starbucks coffee and all-natural pork that’s free of antibiotics and nitrates.

And around the same time, the Hilton Chicago unveiled the chain’s new “Hilton Breakfast,” a color-coded buffet and menu that labels more than 80 items according to five different categories: “low cholesterol,” “low fat,” “high fiber,” “low calorie” and (for the not-so-health conscious) “indulgence.”

“You can see it in the supermarket. People are starting to read [nutrition] labels, so they really want to know what they’re eating, even from a hotel restaurant,” `says Darren McArdle, director of food and beverage at the Chicago Hilton Towers. “I think we have a unique way of getting that message across, in a format that most people can understand.”

A little competition among the chains is good for the industry, says McInerney, giving hotels another aspect to market other than location. And more promotion means more reservations.

Starwood Hotels and its Westin chain fired the first salvo in the Bed Wars in 1999, with its new standard bed, called the “Heavenly Bed.” Several hotels also began developing their own beds and bedding lines, and last year Marriott and Hilton added their names to the list of hotels upgrading their bedding.

“This is an interesting industry,” McInerney says. “There are no trade secrets. You have a competitive edge for about two days before your competitor puts a different name on it and promotes it.”

But why has the competition spilled onto the breakfast plate? McInerney says that of the three meals one typically eats, guests are more likely to eat breakfast at the hotel.

“Breakfast is 90 percent of what guests eat,” he says. “On a three-day trip, we get them two or three days for breakfast, and then one out of three for dinner. They’re just too many other places to go. So breakfast is important.”

That’s why one local hotel, the Fairmont Chicago, has spent $200,000 to refit all 687 guest rooms with Nespresso Essenza C100 espresso/coffee machines. The machine, which also retails at the hotel for $229, is meant to give guests a memorable experience as they wake up. The Essenza’a sleek, wedge-like shape, mixed with the ease of making an espresso or brewing coffee with a button push, provides a heightened convenience the hotel hopes will be noticed.

“It’s a point of difference,” says Andre Zoloff, the hotel’s general manager. “They’ll remember, ‘When I stayed at the Fairmont Chicago, I had a great cup of coffee.’ And the next time they come to Chicago, maybe they’ll stay at the Fairmont.”

So far, it seems to be working. The hotel has sold about a half-dozen Essenzas in its gift shop since unveiling the program in August.

Another gauntlet thrown. Another war under way.

- — –

They have the technology …

Hotels have rebuilt breakfast. They’ve made it better. Faster. Stronger. OK, it’s not really bionic, but it is more nutritious, elaborate and upscale. Here are a few Chicago hotels that have upgraded their breakfast menus:

–Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 E. Wacker Drive; 312-565-1234

–Omni Chicago, 676 N. Michigan Ave.; 312-944-6664

–Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Ave.; 312-922-4400

http://www.hotel-online.com/News/PR2007_4th/Nov07_HotelBreakfasts.html

But, what about the housekeeping staff – here’s a take on what happened to them in the “bedding wars”:

Casualties of the Bedding Wars

by Victor Margolin

Hotels today compete for customers with an escalating array of comforts, offering everything from high-speed Internet to 24-hour in-room massage. Key to their identities as sanctuaries for weary travelers are the luxurious sleeping appointments they provide. Engaged in what have come to be known as “bedding wars,” hotel chains like Starwood, Westin, and Kimpton offer thick mattresses with inviting names such as Heavenly Bed, Sweet Sleeper, and Serenity Bed.

But the beds are hardly a sweet dream for the housekeepers who make them. The combined weight of mattress, box spring, and duvet for a king-size hotel bed is 225 pounds. For a queen the total weight is 183 pounds. As a result, housekeepers have been experiencing an increasing number of back and shoulder injuries. A recent survey conducted by Unite Here, a national union representing hotel housekeeping staff, revealed that among 622 workers in various American cities, 91 percent had back or shoulder injuries related to their jobs, 67 percent had visited a doctor because of the pain, and 66 percent took medication to relieve it.

As part of designing the customer’s experience of lotus-eating comfort, hotels provide luxuries such as chocolates on the turned down bed covers and even baskets of fruit as gifts of welcome. Or rather, their staffs do. Besides lifting heavy mattresses and changing three sheets and a half-dozen pillowcases per bed, housekeepers must also take time to stock rooms with all the bath amenities and minibar bottles guests have come to expect. They also have to wash the water glasses, coffee cups and coffee pot. And yet hotel managers have refused to extend the time needed to clean a room. Nor will they allow two housekeepers to work (and hoist mattresses) together, despite ergonomic studies showing that larger and heavier beds impose loads on the lumbar spine that are highly likely to result in back injuries. In August 2005, Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich signed a law that would insure two 15-minute paid breaks for hotel housekeepers. The state’s Hotel and Lodging Association challenged the new law in Illinois state court but their appeal was rejected in July, 2006, and the new requirement was finally put into practice in August.

It’s ironic that although at least one chain offers a special slumber-inducing program that includes an eye mask, earplugs, lavender spray to promote relaxation, and a CD with soft music, no hotel manager appears to be losing sleep over the physical strain the bedding wars exert on employees. It’s also ironic that hotel companies plead poverty to forestall boosting the comfort of their working conditions yet have no trouble specifying costly amenities (whose expense they pass on to their guests).

This is bad design, for design goes well beyond an object’s appearance and primary application to embrace all the social consequences of creating something new. Not only does design involve the user’s satisfaction but also the conditions of its production and maintenance. Thanks to Naomi Klein and other activists, consumers are now aware of the horrific working conditions in sweatshops abroad. This has caused the public to think differently about Nike shoes and Old Navy tank tops. Yet under our very noses, hotel workers in America are being exploited to enhance the comfort of hotel guests. Its time to establish federal guidelines for hotel housekeepers just as has been done for workers in other professions where hazardous tasks can result in physical injuries. It will be a fight to get the hotel industry to accept such guidelines. But human rights are at stake. By introducing new tasks for the housekeepers that demand greater physical exertion than in the past, the hotel chains are endangering their employees’ health. If they won’t recognize this on their own and do something about it, then others must step in to protect these workers. A heavy mattress may not be lethal but it can still cause serious harm.

http://www.design-altruism-project.org/?p=31

Bedding Wars
2/10/2006
By Jim Merritt

From A to ZZZZZ: Hotel Interactive’s Jim Merritt goes “undercover” to find the latest bedtime trends at hotels across the nation.

You might call it “The Battle of the Beds 2006.”

This year a number of leading lodging chains are rolling out softer, more luxurious and comfortably-named bed packages. And not only in the upscale markets. Some “mid-priced” brands are getting on the bed bandwagon too.

The battle cry could be: out with bedspreads and old-fashioned comforters, in with high thread-count sheets, and — dare we say it – “up with down.”

The trend apparently dates to 1999, when Westin introduced the “Heavenly Bed.” Westin properties still feature the Heavenly Bed custom-designed pillowtop mattress set by Simmons, a comforter and a crisp white duvet.

More – and softer – bedfellows are in the offing, though.

At Hilton Hotels, Suites & Resorts, the Hilton Suite Dreams bed features a plush-top mattress designed with Serta to provide both “support and luxury.” The new bed package is being introduced after Hilton Hotels Corporation surveyed 1,000 U.S. households and found that 50 percent of respondents reported only six hours or less of sleep per night while traveling — two hours less than the average needed to function at peak performance.

Also after consumer research, Marriott International, Inc. owners and franchisees have invested nearly $190 million in replacing 628,000 beds at approximately 2,400 hotels worldwide. JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts and Renaissance Hotels & Resorts were among the Marriott brands that replaced the traditional bedspread with down comforters nestled inside sheeted duvets.

Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts now offer beds with seven pillows, a plush duvet, and luxurious sheets as part of a “Sleep Advantage” program developed with the help of sleep expert Dr. Michael Breus.

USA Today recently noted that the “hotel bed wars” were spreading to lower priced properties too.

Holiday Inn Express is planning an upgrade of its standard bedding package with a $53 million investment to be rolled out to the more than 1,400 North American properties beginning in April, with full implementation expected by September. The Holiday Inn Express SimplySmart program replaces the bedspread with an attractive decorative top sheet, a medium-weight duvet blanket and soft 200 thread-count sheets.

At Hilton’s Hampton Inns, a “super-comfortable” new bedding package will be available in more than 1,300 hotels by June. The new Hampton “Cloud Nine” bed replaces the old-fashioned bedspread with a crisp, white duvet cover enveloping a white comforter. The bed also features three or four pillows and a choice in firmness (some filled with soft down, some with firmer foam)

But what about the conventional wisdom about a firm mattress being good for your back?

That wisdom was debunked in a study several years ago. The American Chiropractic Association reported that mattresses of medium firmness were better at improving lowback pain symptoms than firm mattresses.

The American Chiropractic Association’s Dr. Scott Bautch says, “As we, as a society, have become more full-figured, designs like pillowtop mattresses have become extremely popular… mattresses designed with support and then the addition of a soft top (pillow top) will benefit the majority of people.”

The bottom line, according to Dr. Bautch: ” For the majority of people – including hotel visitors – there needs to be basic support with a soft top.”

Jim Merritt is associate editor of Hotel Interactive.

http://www.hotelinteractive.com/index.asp?page_id=5000&article_id=5560

It’s All About the Bed

Phoebe Eskenazi endured many sleepless nights before checking into the Royal Sonesta Hotel Boston for a weekend. The Alexandria, Va., teacher was recovering from a bout of asthmatic bronchitis and just couldn’t get any rest. But when she collapsed into an extra-cushiony Serta bed created just for the hotel chain, she fell into a deep slumber. “It was one of the most comfortable beds I’ve slept on,” she raves. Eskenazi and her husband were so smitten they took a Sonesta bed home – for $1,600, including shipping.

“It is all about the bed,” says Sonesta spokeswoman Deborah Roker. The hotel industry is starting to agree. After all, what good is a mint on your pillow if the pillow resembles a bag of cement? Westin was the first chain to upgrade its bedding, back in 1999. Since then, other upscale hotels have jumped on the bedwagon. Now midscale joints are joining in. Last month, Hampton Inn announced it was spending $80 million to replace mattresses, pillows, and such. Four Points by Sheraton will roll out a “Four Comfort” bed this summer.

Like Eskenazi, guests sometimes want to buy the hotel bed. “It’s found money,” says lodging analyst Robert Mandelbaum, though he guesses that the take represents no more than 1 percent of the industry’s income.

You can probably score a better deal if you do it yourself, but there’s a lot to be said for one-stop shopping, not to mention the fact that you’ll be the only person on your block with a bed fit for the Ritz. The for-sale package typically includes a mattress, box spring, frame, pillows, sheets, and comforter. Prices below, from high-end chains with high-end beds, are for king size; shipping (from the manufacturer) is extra.
Phoebe Eskenazi endured many sleepless nights before checking into the Royal Sonesta Hotel Boston for a weekend. The Alexandria, Va., teacher was recovering from a bout of asthmatic bronchitis and just couldn’t get any rest. But when she collapsed into an extra-cushiony Serta bed created just for the hotel chain, she fell into a deep slumber. “It was one of the most comfortable beds I’ve slept on,” she raves. Eskenazi and her husband were so smitten they took a Sonesta bed home – for $1,600, including shipping.

“It is all about the bed,” says Sonesta spokeswoman Deborah Roker. The hotel industry is starting to agree. After all, what good is a mint on your pillow if the pillow resembles a bag of cement? Westin was the first chain to upgrade its bedding, back in 1999. Since then, other upscale hotels have jumped on the bedwagon. Now midscale joints are joining in. Last month, Hampton Inn announced it was spending $80 million to replace mattresses, pillows, and such. Four Points by Sheraton will roll out a “Four Comfort” bed this summer.

Like Eskenazi, guests sometimes want to buy the hotel bed. “It’s found money,” says lodging analyst Robert Mandelbaum, though he guesses that the take represents no more than 1 percent of the industry’s income.

You can probably score a better deal if you do it yourself, but there’s a lot to be said for one-stop shopping, not to mention the fact that you’ll be the only person on your block with a bed fit for the Ritz. The for-sale package typically includes a mattress, box spring, frame, pillows, sheets, and comforter. Prices below, from high-end chains with high-end beds, are for king size; shipping (from the manufacturer) is extra.

Filed under The Travel Critic · February 15th, 2004

http://www.elliott.org/the-travel-critic/its-all-about-the-bed/

And from USA Today’s travel blog, here are some recent entries about upgraded amenities that might be of some interest:

USA Today’s Hotel Hotsheet: Check it out before you check in

By Kitty Bean Yancey

Which hotel chain has the best sheets?

Some travelers don’t care what kind of sheets they sleep on, as long as they’re clean. But hotel chains’ push for higher thread counts indicates that lots of us do care.

In addition to upgrading linens, chains are selling sheets online. Upscale Rosewood Hotels & Resorts just opened an online boutique, where you can buy several types of sheets, including 740-thread-count sets starting at $200. Chains including Westin (of Heavenly Bed fame), Holiday Inn Express, Kimpton and Ritz-Carlton also sell linens online.

I’m getting ready to test hotel linens that you can buy to see which ones float my dreamboat. I’ll be rating them for an upcoming USA TODAY article. To steer me in the right direction, I’d love to hear your thoughts on which chains have the best sheets and why. Let me know by commenting below.

Posted at 05:55 AM/ET, November 17, 2006

Multi-tasking TV screens

Here’s an emerging amenity on the hotel scene: TVs that let you split the screen, so you can surf the Web or answer e-mails while keeping an eye on your favorite program.

These multi-taskers are new in the just-remodeled rooms at the JW Marriott Hotel in Washington, D.C., which are being unveiled this week. Rooms boast 32-inch high-definition TVs that can be hooked up to laptops and music players.

The 767 redone rooms and suites also feature upgraded bedding and ergonomic chairs — seen at more and more JWs. And something else is new at the D.C. JW. It has officially gone non-smoking, as have all North American Marriotts.

So, on this gadget-one-upmanship hotel landscape, which unusual ones have you seen and appreciated?

Posted at 06:10 AM/ET, October 18, 2006 in

Brass keys, vibrating beds and other hotel memories

Few travelers would take issue with the recent wave of hotel renovations, from upgraded mattresses and bedding to better bathrooms. But in today’s USA TODAY Money section, Barbara De Lollis takes a look at some of the memories that have been lost in the shuffle.

“As in life generally, something’s lost when something’s gained. Gone are the floral, synthetic bedspreads, the sanitizer bands around toilet seats, ashtrays and wake-up calls from real people.

“With that in mind, USA TODAY asked hoteliers, professors and travelers to recall amenities or services that have disappeared or are on the way out.” The demise of windows that open was one gripe. Mine would be getting lost in an electronic maze the first time I try to get my favorite channel on a hotel TV.

Posted at 10:53 AM/ET, October 03, 2006

More tubs are toast

A few months back I wrote about how Hilton Hotels was experimenting with tub-free rooms. The hotelier had decided that tubs were a thing of the past, and most folks simply wanted a quick shower. Now Marriott Hotels is experimenting with the shower-only room in its new Marriott and Renaissance properties, the Miami Herald reports. Smaller brands are dumping the tub, too: InterContinental Hotels’ Indigo brand is totally sans tubs at its three boutique properties.

Many of you wrote in with your tub vs. shower vote when I first wrote about this, and it turned out to be pretty much a draw. Have times changed? Let’s hear what you want; leave your two-cents in our comments below.

Posted at 01:57 PM/ET, April 10, 2006

And the Wi-Fi award goes to …

Who’s got the best Wi-Fi? And what makes a hotel’s service the best? Availability, reliability and connectivity, for starters. Then the king of all variables: price. For its (almost) annual feature, HotelChatter.com has compiled its list of best and worst of the Wi-Fi offering hotels. Best of the best goes once again to Kimpton Hotels because Wi-Fi in that chain’s properties is simple, free and fast. Hard to top that. On the flip side, Marriott Hotels gets the buzzer from HotelChatter due to its inconsistent offerings across brands and fairly high cost. Both Kimpton and Marriott held the same slots in the last survey, so it seems while more and more hotels are getting on the cordless bandwagon, most offerings are still just middle-of-the-information-superhighway. If you’ve had trouble or a super easy experience getting connected at a hotel, let us hear about it … share your comments below.

Posted at 01:31 PM/ET, April 03, 2006

It was only a matter of time …

I’m giving a sorely-in-need-of-a-massage thumbs up to the marketing folks at the Hyatt Grand Champions Resort & Spa in Indian Wells, Calif. This super swanky resort is known for its two golf courses and well-visited pools, but now the hotel’s spa has unveiled the Blackberry Hand Massage “in an effort to encourage faster, more comfortable PDA usage,” according to a press release. The 30-minute treatment includes blackberry (the fruit, not the device) balm and an accupressure massage to release the tension so many pda-addicted folks carry in their hands. The treatment is $80, and in less than an hour, you can be zooming through those text messages like you were a teenager. And for what it’s worth, if you’ve never had a hand massage, they’re awesome, and most hotel spas offer them, even if they don’t have blackberry balm.

Posted at 01:48 PM/ET, March 09, 2006

Hilton Chicago O’Hare does it again

Back in October I told you about how the Hilton Chicago O’Hare turned 17 rooms into allergen-free zones. Today, the hotel began offering a service that allows its guests to check in for their flights using kiosks in the hotel lobby, USA TODAY reports. Hilton plans to unveil the kiosks in 34 more hotels in the next two weeks, but it would seem the O’Hare location is a bit of a test pilot for cool new amenities.

The story notes Holiday Inn, Marriott and Hyatt are also rolling out flight check-in systems, or expanding on existing ones.

Posted at 02:05 PM/ET, March 01, 2006

Spa reward points, good. Spa failure notices, bad

The spa industry is in a little bit of hot water, it seems. Business is down across the market, possibly because the number of U.S. spas climbed from 5,689 in 2000 to 12,100 in 2004, according to numbers quoted in The Wall Street Journal (subscription required). As with the airline industry, overcapacity has created a challenging business environment, so the latest trend is to go after the repeat customer while they’re nice and relaxed. Spas across the country are offering deep discounts for guests who book their next stay before leaving, but what got my attention most is some of the other spa marketing tactics.

The Nob Hill Spa at the Huntington Hotel in San Francisco offers reward points to hotel and spa guests to be used on subsequent visits. Canyon Ranch Spas in Arizona and Massachusetts give room upgrades for repeat bookers, a 15% discount for both patrons if a repeat visitor brings along a first-time visitor and a customized website so you can maintain your healthy new lifestyle at home.

Reward points and discounts are great, and according to the WSJ, seem to be paying off, but I’m going to take issue with one “perk” mentioned in the story. The Golden Door Spa and Resort in Escondido, Calif., has guests write themselves a letter about their goals for the next six months. After you leave, the hotel mails you that letter, then follows up with a personal letter from the manager if you haven’t booked another stay within a year. I understand motivation comes in all forms, and this may be right up someone’s alley, but last thing I want is to be reminded of how I haven’t kept those 10 pounds off or quit eating Oreos.

Posted at 02:11 PM/ET, February 28, 2006

What’s in it for me?

“Hotel points — and airline miles — are the opium of the traveling masses.” I couldn’t agree more with this quote from a Chicago Tribune story on hotel reward programs. But it’s what we get from our frequent stays that really matters to us, even more than the reward points total on that monthly statement. It’s that personal attention, those little details, like which room we like or what newspaper we read that make us want to return. But who’s giving the perks you want? Take a look at the Trib’s story for a breakdown of what hotels hand out to their loyalty program customers.

Posted at 12:09 PM/ET, February 22, 2006

Concierge in your computer

Courtesy Holiday Inn

Holiday Inn’s new virtual concierge: The homepage. To see this and other sample pages larger, click here.

InterContinental Hotels has unveiled a virtual concierge, eHost, in 14 of its Holiday Inn hotels. Before you go thinking “robot with connections to great concert tickets,” the virtual concierge is the HI homepage that comes up when you log in (with your own computer) to the hotel’s free high-speed Internet. I’ve seen a lot of hotel homepages, and I have to say, this one might be worth keeping up while you’re at the hotel. I was sent a link to the test page (which technology won’t allow me to share, sadly) and surfed around on it, and the offerings are pretty cool.

From local shopping, restaurants, weather, events (courtesy of Yahoo! local) to games, hotel events and online room service menus and ordering capability, the site is a decent compendium of things you might need to know when you’re in a strange town. One really nice feature for international visitors is the option to choose the language and currency the page displays. eHost can be found at select Holiday Inns, including Orlando and Cleveland airport locations, with the entire chain rollout due later this year.

None of the features, save the hotel events, amenities and room service menus are items you couldn’t find by surfing the Web on your own. That said, Holiday Inn has created a pleasant, user-friendly way to put a traveler’s needs in easy reach. And here’s to my favorite thing of all: free high-speed Internet!

Posted at 02:37 PM/ET, February 21, 2006

The lobby: More than a place to check in

Now that the bedding wars are over, the lobby wars have begun. USA TODAY reports that the hotel industry is slated to spend $5 billion on improvements in 2006 in the hope that “spiffier, livelier lobbies will give a competitive edge.”

Among the improvements are communal Wi-Fi lounges from Sheraton, Marriott’s alcoves to help create “public privacy” and a $300,000 furniture shopping spree from boutique chain Kimpton at San Diego’s Hotel Solamar. Of course there’s a reason beyond aesthetics for this investment: “By drawing guests out of their rooms, hotels hope to generate more food and beverage sales.”

Posted at 04:13 PM/ET, February 15, 2006

Disney hotels go smoke-free

Visitors to “the happiest place on Earth” will breathe easier on their next trip. Disney’s three California hotels, the Disneyland Hotel, Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel and the Grand Californian will be 100% non-smoking as of March 1. The Grand Californian had already been a non-smoking property since its opening in 2001, but the other two hotels are just now clearing the air. According to an e-mail from Disney headquarters, the reason for the change is simple supply and demand: The properties have just 35 requests for smoking rooms from now until 2010. The decline in demand had led Disney to reduce its number of smoking rooms over the years. Guests will still be alllowed to light up outside the hotel in designated areas.

Westin Hotels went smoke-free at its 77 properties in the USA, Canada and the Caribbean at the beginning of this year, and the trend just keeps on growing, as USA TODAY recently reported.

Posted at 10:01 AM/ET, February 07, 2006

Let’s celebrate B-Day!

The bed wars are over. When the whooping and hollering dies down, and you’re done with the iconic kissing between sailors and nurses, you’ll be happy to hear the ending was peaceful. Simply put, there was no one left on the battlefield. It would appear that all hotels that took part in the skirmish have upgraded their bedding, so there is nothing left to fight about. The New York Times (registration required) reports that while customers are mixed on how great the uber-fluffy, over-pillowed beds are, there is no confusion over how the ugrades made hotels the clear victors. From increased room revenues because a) happy customers come back to their favorite beds, and b) they can charge more for the upgraded rooms to the lucrative sales of branded bedding, hotels have made out like sheet-covered bandits.

Posted at 01:34 PM/ET, February 01, 2006

Holiday Inn taps another trend

Courtesy Holiday Inn

The iHome iH5, ready to rock your tunes.

Holiday Inn Select hotels is looking to further entice Gen-Xers by appealing to the iPod crowd. Wait. That’s just about everyone, isn’t it? Anyway, the brand is putting the iHome iH5, an all-in-one docking station, charger and clock radio, into its guest rooms.

No more screeching buzz of the alarm or missing a phone call because you have your earbuds in; pop your iPod into the dock and it’s your music, your way. Other hotels that have docking stations have thus far been boutique or higher-end chains, so this is a good development for those who frequent mid-range hotels.

Posted at 10:07 AM/ET, January 11, 2006

Tops in tech touches

If high-tech is your thing, check out the U.K.’s Daily Mail story on the top techno hotels around the globe. Some hotels, like the soon-to-open Yotel in London, will offer gadgets in a small space; Yotel is a semi-capsule hotel that will have a “tech wall” in each room offering a flat screen TV and downloadable movies and music. Other hotels on the list, like Nine Zero Hotel in Boston, get techy on a grander scale; the hotel’s Cloud Nine Suite lets guests use eye scans instead of keys and offers a plasma screen TV with movies and games on-demand. Of course, the grander scale equals grander cost: Yotel plans on a debut room rate of about $123 a night, while the Cloud Nine will set you back about $4,000 each night.

Not on the Daily Mail’s list but a definite contender should be Atlanta’s TWELVE Hotel which opens next month. This hotel looks to have a pretty cool array of high-tech goodies, including an in-room keyboard and flat-panel monitor that will allow guests to order room service, get their car from valet parking and make housekeeping requests, as well as serve as an Internet portal. The rooms will have free high-speed and Wi-Fi access and the hotel has hotspots around the pool and more. VOIP telephone systems and two flat-panel TVs will be offered in the suites. Introductory rates are set at $160 to $215 a night, but the hotel promises discounts for its opening.

Posted at 05:25 PM/ET, January 10, 2006

Woohoo! Starwood hooks up with Yahoo!

Starting this week, four Sheraton hotels will get a little Wi-Fi boost from Yahoo!, the Internet search portal. Starwood is testing Yahoo! Link@Sheraton Web access at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina, the Sheraton Boston, Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers and the Sheraton Stamford in Connecticut. All four hotels will offer Wi-Fi and wired Internet access, and the San Diego and Boston locations will also have Internet lounges in the hotels’ lobbies. The lounges will offer Internet-connected workstations with both Ethernet and Wi-Fi connections.

Many Sheraton properties already had Wi-Fi, so what’s the deal? The partnership is likely an attempt to drive traffic and customers to Yahoo!. Its ever-growing competitor Google recently opened an Internet lounge in London’s Heathrow airport, and technology site Red Herring notes there are rumors the behemoth search engine would like to expand the service.

Posted at 04:15 PM/ET, January 10, 2006

http://blogs.usatoday.com/hotelhotsheet/amenities/index.html

Hotels hope visitors check out livelier, upgraded lobby

By Roger Yu, USA TODAY

Hotel lobbies aren’t just places to check in any more.

Flush with money from the travel boom, the U.S. hotel industry will spend $5 billion on improvements in 2006, says consultant PricewaterhouseCoopers. Hotels are channeling much of it into lobbies, making them inviting places to meet, linger and mingle.

They’re betting that spiffier, livelier lobbies will give a competitive edge. And by drawing guests out of their rooms, hotels hope to generate more food and beverage sales:

•Marriott. Its new lobby plan calls for a lounge with intimate tables and wait service. For guests who want to work but don’t want to be cooped up in their rooms, the plan — partly inspired by Starbucks and airlines’ airport clubs — lays out an area of alcoves. Marriott will start with newly constructed and renovated hotels, and eventually incorporate the model throughout the chain. “It’s about public privacy,” says executive Mike Jannini.

•Embassy Suites. The Hilton-owned chain, known for open-air atriums, said last month it will start installing “a European-style” cafe in its hotels. To enlarge the usable space, it will eliminate the front desk and replace it with a set of self-check-in kiosks and podiums manned by staffers.

•Sheraton. In partnership with Web portal Yahoo, Sheraton said in January that it will test a Wi-Fi-enabled communal lobby lounge at some of its hotels, including The Sheraton San Diego. It features desktop computers, a plasma TV, food and comfortable chairs.

•Boutiques. The high-end Kimpton chain spent more than $300,000 on lobby furniture when it opened Hotel Solamar San Diego last July.

Langham Hotel Boston, owned by Hong Kong-based Langham Hotels, will enlarge the lobby and move the bar and restaurant down from the second floor. The goal is to make the hotel, once home to the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, more contemporary and lively, manager Serge Denis says.

W Hotels kicked off the lobby competition in the late 1990s with its first hotel, which is in New York. Its lobbies, known for buzzing parties, sleek décor and mood lighting, got inspiration from European hotels and cafes, says executive Ross Klein.

Anne Seymour, a Washington, D.C.-based crime victims’ advocate, says she is finding it increasingly convenient to have meetings in hotel lobbies. Says Seymour: “They are larger, cleaner and (have) huge fluffy couches, free magazines and newspapers. Geez, who needs to even get a room anymore?”

Copyright 2008 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Co. Inc. http://www.usatoday.com/travel/hotels/2006-02-13-lobbies-usat_x.htm

Well, I hope this encourages some of you weary travelers to check out some of the upgraded bedding, and sleep a better, softer sleep. Next up in the travel file will be Boutique Hotels: The BEST choice for travel.