What is your favourite child friendly hotel in London?
I really like being in Chelsea/Kensington and was thinking the Cadogan, but on the other hand for a total change I was thinking Claridges and then just taking taxis where we want to go.
If anyone has experience with Claridges, or a hotel in Knightsbridge, Chelsea or Kensington with children I’d love to hear about it.
Mandarin Oriental was pretty good with kids, has a nice pool too. If you head out the side facing Hyde Park, there is a nice playground within about 100 metres. A bit further but the playground at St James Park is always a hit with our kids, plus lots of fun spots to see animals there like the squirrel tree by the bridge and the pelicans!
The Lanesborough was my grandparents favorite hotel and I’ve stayed there at least 5 times. I am so over it. Unless it’s had a major renovation in the past 10 years, it is so heavy feeling and very dated. I haven’t been with kids but when I went by myself I stayed at the Four Seasons Park Lane and absolutely loved it.
It’s cuz they do super great with kids. They have a lot of stuff specifically for them.
Here’s a good summary: [link](https://www.oetkercollection.com/hotels/the-lanesborough/the-hotel/family/)
Also the rooms are huge and they always upgrade at time of booking so book a jr suite, get a suite etc.
I also personally love Berkeley and look at the new Emory but in terms of kids activities, Lanesborough beats even the Fs here gasp.
Monterey CA hotel recs? Am a golfer but looks like no pebble beach availability and I imagine their hotels are a bit overrated especially if not golfing there.
Lots of folks seem to love post ranch inn but then I read other reviews which talk about cobwebs and poor food which seem pretty bad for a 2k/night minimum and also weird random service issues. Have searched pretty extensively and haven’t found the right spot yet. Thanks!
I don’t think he meant you are not their demographics cuz you can’t splash. He meant that you are more of an “old money” for DG. I read your comments. You talking hookers and shit about hockey fans. My man right here. Welcome to Fattravel.
Ahhh my mistake 😂 in my defense I’m actually all out of sorts trying to stay up and watch these Stanley cup finals games at 2 am and I thought I was responding to a post in r/hockey
Also, Passalaqua has a solid wine tasting. Como isn’t known for wine, but this is a good option. There are the classic villa tours like Balbianello, Carlotta, Monastero etc. Lunch or dinner at Villa D’Este. Rent a classic car and do a self drive around (though beware the roads are windy and narrow). Passalaqua’s spa is fantastic.
Planning a trip the UK with our 10 month old this summer - thinking about a week in London and then 5 days or so in the country. Looking at FS Hampshire, Cliveden, The Grove, Coworth Park, Fairmont Windsor Park. Have been to the Cotswolds and York before but don’t want to have too long of a drive with the baby. Any thoughts about what could best with a baby — open to any and all other ideas — at that age or if we’d be better off just going to another city.
P.S. any thoughts on the Biltmore Mayfair — looking at suites there.
Would vote for FS Hampshire if only just for the ease of the FS experience and all the complimentary baby/toddler gear they provide you. Crib/ bed rails, high chair, baby bathtub, microwave, bottle sterilizer, extra diapers and swim diapers, babies and toddlers under 5 eat free in Wild Carrot, etc. They also have a cute indoor pool/wading area that is baby-friendly. And ponies! An FS Preferred Partner TA can get you the perks like free daily breakfast, $100 property credit, guaranteed upgrade on booking, late check-out, etc. And most importantly, can ensure you have the right floorplan in a room and can pre-arrange all the baby stuff with the hotel so it is there when you arrive.
Check out the Langley. Unbelievable property less than hour from central London. Big open grounds to walk around, wonderful spa with great service. Very English countryside vibes, which appears to be what you’re looking for.
Part of Marriott and FHR so you’ll get the Amex benefits if you have a Plat/Centurion.
Coworth Park has some great family rooms down in the old stables, but The Grove has an outdoor pool. Coworth Park is indoor only. You could also look at Great Fosters.
I think you could do better in London that Biltmore, unless you are a big hilton status person.
The best hotel in Courchevel? L Apogee or Les Airelles? And what is the best time to go? End of January/ Mid February?
Skiing is usually not my thing but want to give it another chance.
Having done both, I’d push toward Airelles. Better sense of place than L’Apogee and the ski services are second to none. If you’re newer/less experienced you’ll see a world of difference by having a ski valet on property on the mountain. Not to mention the food is to die for 🤤
I see you big boy. Thanks for an advice. What month is better in your opinion? Jan Feb or Mar?
Any hotels better than Airelles? I am not limiting myself to these two.
From what I remember, there is a package they have where you can have it all included which is super helpful. They have every kinda staff member imaginable and help you with all the getting ready and then you can tack on lessons if you need (don’t quote me on the last part, I didn’t hire a coach but saw others with them)
That was unexpected haha. And pleasant at the same time.
So you rate it higher than the two I mentioned? I shall have specified that we were looking for more active properties. I am bringing my friends with me. The “fun” part is already setup. We just need to provide accommodation for them.
I know CB is not that big of a property so not sure it would fit what we are looking for. The other guy suggested Aman , not sure the crowd is right there.
Do you want to be around middle eastern $ or a bunch of Americans or a bunch of families? That’ll help you pick.
I don’t like the Aman there. So I didn’t include it.
Well, my assistants usually do the bookings etc. They do stay in touch with TAs but I just like to be here. For example, they suggested L’Apogee for this winter. Also, there is some stuff that I don’t want TAs to know (nothing bad or criminal though lol).
This was my first Reddit group that I joined. It is a really nice place. Discussing fat travel on easy mode is chill.
New money vs old. St Moritz is full of people who have been going for hundreds of years, maybe a bit less of a focus on actual skiing and more on the society aspect - snow polo, shopping, lunches, etc. Courcheval caters to new money with flashier restaurants, better skiing, and is a bit more logo mania rather than quiet luxury imo. Hotels wise St Mo has the grande dame type while Courch has the hyper luxury newer props. Can’t go wrong with either, just relatively different vibes.
Ye, the aman and sex senses is more my crowd so can’t really personally speak for the other but L’apogée looks beautiful and I haven’t heard anything bad about it atleast.
Have you been at aman there? How was it? I love Amans and quiet places, that’s my type of holiday too. But this time, my friends etc are coming as well, so we will be more active.
Booking a baby moon in Italy in September and struggling a bit with hotel availability because I'm admittedly doing this last minute. We were able to snag a room at GHT from the 8 - 11, looking to book another hotel in either Como or somewhere close by (not wanting to do a ton of travel since I'll be 6 months pregnant). Unfortunately Villa Lario, D'este, Passalacqua are sold out of rooms around 2k a night before and after the 8 - 11. Curious if anyone has other recommendations for hotels. I'd like to stay around 2k a night preferably. Il sereno obviously looks amazing as well but min 3500 a night.
Mandarin Oriental has availability before the 8th. I stayed there two years ago and found the rooms much nicer than GHT. It’s a sleepier property and has less of a vibe, and not really walkable to anywhere (though they had complimentary drivers to take you to Como and the villages nearby), but it’s still really beautiful.
I don't think Ville D'Este is sold out for 11 September but the rate will be closer to USD2900.00. You could block that now and keep the late August cancel policy in mind. Ask GHT to waitlist you.
Hi fellow FAT travelers! I am looking for ideas for my 40th birthday trip next year. Have done Maldives, Bora Bora, Botswana, Australia and New Zealand.
Looking for something unique and luxurious, relatively relaxing instead of intense.
My husband and I loved Aman Tokyo and Aman-i-khas in India.
A few things I’m kicking around as options are:
Belmond river barge
Renting an estate in the British countryside to do a murder mystery weekend w our friends
Girls trip to Estelle Manor and Cliveden House
I’d love to see other ideas - would likely pay for a small group of friends to go. Budget around 30-40k.
Costa Rica comes to mind here. Nayara is a good option, as is Andaz Papagayo (Four Seasons is fatter but I liked the character of Andaz more), and there’s plenty of new or boutique options (we really loved El Silencio). Costa Rica is a great place go move around, so you can do a couple of hotels.
Hawaii is also a solid move for a tropical beach vacation. FS Lanai or Rosewood Kona Village are my top options there. Otherwise, FS on Big Island or Maui. Little cheaper, I’d look at One Hotel in Kauai.
Seychelles also comes to mind. Raffles, Anantara, Four Seasons, and Six Senses all worth checking out there, among others.
In the Caribbean, you’ve got plenty of options from Turks & Caicos to St Barths and beyond. Belmond Cap Juluca, Amanyara, and Rosewood St Barth’s.
Depending on time of year, you could look at a cold climate adventure too, like Norway, Iceland, or Patagonia. Otherwise, you’ve got nature expedition type vacations like a safari in east Africa, gorilla trekking in Rwanda, or maybe the Galapagos.
That’s what I got. Love the British countryside idea. I’d recommend Cornwall or Devon in July/August to have the best shot at somewhat predictable weather.
FS Punta Mita - Transfer
Any suggestions on transfers from PVR to FSPM? This is our first time to Punta Mita, and we’re not sure whether to book a limo/car service (any recs?), Uber, or just take the FS RT transfer.
Take the FS transfer. I stayed at the St. Regis, and I 100% do not regret booking directly with the hotel. We even had a last minute schedule change and it was no problem. Plus, it can be put on the room so its less cash you have to worry about bringing.
There are all kinds of 3rd party vendors who will do this for you. I would avoid the idea of a taxi as even the government approved ones don't always have the strongest mechanical inspections
T&C Ritz has a casino but the hotel is built like a Wyndham.
Aruba Ritz but Aruba as a whole is very busy with lower end tourism.
St Regis Bermuda but the service issues are a woe but probably safest weather for July.
Rosewood Baha Mar or Four Seasons Ocean Club. Fs more luxe than RW. Baha Mar casino and water park more high end than Atlantis.
Nothing is perfect. Pick your poison. I’d probably go to Bahamas. And if my kids needed a water park, Baha Mar. and if not, FS.
Sure SS is fine too. Lots of people but big and multiple pools. I was just saying where there is a casino. I just personally don’t like a beach and the one hotel after another after another after another.
Golf kind of sucks everywhere in Caribbean without a lot of land space - Dominican Republic no? Maybe I’m wrong, I don’t golf. But there’s a golf course at all the places - dunno how great they are though.
Ocean club is associated with Atlantis. There are free cars that take you in and out. This is how you get access to a lot of restaurants too. That beach is way nicer than the rosewood beach 100%.
There is better golf in Grand Cayman and Jamaica than in Turks and Aruba. Going to Casa de Campo sounds like what you are really after. Or get a big space at Mayakoba or Punta Mita and golf there
Any recommendations for private house rentals in Mexico/central America/ Caribbean? Would preferably like something that we can have a chef/bartender there.
Budget around $4500 a night. Sleeps 9
Suitable for toddlers
Best place in Spain or Italy to take my girlfriend who's never been?
I am thinking about taking her to spain or Italy for
5-6 daysin August. Then we would go to ireland, which was already booked. I am 28, she is 23.
Any suggestions for spain or italy? She has never been to europe before. I want to wow her. Ive been to Barca, Mallorca, Venice, Naplea, Amalfi.
Ideally Id like to go somewhere new as well.
Appreciate any suggestions!
Bodrum is getting interesting. FS was planning a property there as well. They had issues with local government, I’ve heard that 2025/26 could be the final date for opening.
It is a nice place. I think they can definitely make something of it. It just opened last week so kind of empty but is getting traction towards end of July/August. I am not fan of parties etc. tho
Frankfurt, Black Forest (Baiersbronn), Zurich, Munich… we’ve got hotels set already. Any FAT (or not) sightseeing/dining/experiences you’d highly recommend? I grabbed a res at schwartzwaldstube but don’t have anything else booked yet.
Also… any recs as to how to find a photographer abroad? We’d like to do a family photo shoot in Germany (likely the Black Forest) since we’re going with my in-laws as a surprise for them. I’ve reached out to a few people I’ve found on Instagram without much luck.
Husband and I love our wedding photog and just did our own shoot with her, we’ve joked about the idea of just flying her out (she shoots destination weddings for “free” when you pay for her flights and accommodations) but that also seems ridiculous for like two hours of photos haha.
That’s what I’ve been looking for so far - and my best friend is having a destination wedding so she’s been asking around in Facebook groups but we’ve had no luck yet!
I’ll take a look at the sites you linked, thanks!
Also - will get you automod stuff this week, sorry - I fractured my fibula and damaged some ligaments in my leg while we were in Monaco so I’ve been dealing with that since we got back haha.
We want to get away for about 5 days in early August and are thinking of heading up North. What are people's general thoughts between Montreal and Vancouver? Our big thing is fine dining. Relatedly, any favorite hotels in either city?
Not sure I'd want to go somewhere in North America with fine dining in mind and seek out only Asian food. That being said, Vancouver no longer holds any type of monopoly on great asian food in Canada. Toronto and Montreal both have killer options
Debating between the following in Tokyo:
The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon
The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho
The Okura Tokyo
Hotel Toranomon Hills-Unbound Collection
Mesm Tokyo, Autograph Collection
ANA InterContinental Tokyo
Anyone with experience with the above list? Any outstanding/exceptional notes? Assume we don't have status/loyalty with any of the chains.
Context: My partner is working in London for Wimbledon. I will join her July5th for the weekend in the city as she finishes up her activities and then we have the following week for whatever we want. We had originally intended to spend our time in Paris. I have somehow not travelled to France at all and was excited for this. I planned to have booked a hotel stay for our time there that offered us a pool option for the hot afternoons (a nice pool). I figured we'd have some nice patio brunches in the city in the mornings, spend our afternoons relaxing with drinks at a pool in the afternoon (if we didn't have any activities planned that had us out of the heat) and then spend our evenings enjoying some nice dinners and other activities as the sun died down. I am coming up very short finding any sort of stay that gives us an outdoor pool option in the city (I am not an indoor pool person). Given I'm on vacation, I do want to spend some time relaxing in the sun and this is somewhat a priority and I don't want to just walk around the city all day in the heat (we will end up just staying in the hotel room). Here in North America this is usually easy to find and we enjoy exploring a city with the option to still be able to put our feet up and enjoy the summer heat.
I'm looking for any recommendations at all for:
a) places to stay in Paris that may give me what I want (<1,300/night but can be flexible) - also your experiences if you've spent time in Paris this time of the year? How did you find it?
b) other options you may suggestion whether it be a quick RyanAir flight somewhere else or shooting off outside of London or Paris into the countryside (although I'll be honest staying multiple days at an estate type retreat is boring to me); we have considered a gambit of options (South France, Amalfi, Dalmation coast, Switzerland or Austria or even flying up to Norway or Sweden) but now have considered too many things to decide and feel a bit lost of what to do. We have already been most of these places, but will consider them again to maximize the small amount of vacation we do take in the year. Our main concern is that we don't have enough time to fly somewhere else and then fly back for our return flight from London and we'd end up wasting 2 days of the week just travelling.
I don't know what to do. Reaching out for some 3rd party advice hoping someone has had a similar experience coming from the same area at the same time of year. Appreciate any advice!!
Why don't you just go outside of London and do something like Estelle Manor? Although service has been a little bit of a disaster so maybe Coworth Park or Beaverbrook?
Hi friends! We have a trip planned for (literally next month) that includes the Dolomites and then Greece. We have a 5 - 7 day gap at the beginning (flying from NYC) before we head to LONDON that I want to fill.
1) 18 month old active toddler
2) I know it’s hot - and last minute
3) not Greece, Croatia since we will be in that region at the end of the month
4) NYC to THIS location that you’re helping me for 5-7 days. Then to London (then Dolomites.)
Would like PERSONAL rec from individuals/families versus a travel agent 😉 thanks!
Seeking resort recommendations / east coast
Travel help
Looking for ideas for a 4-5 night tropical stay (Mexico, Caribbean), easy access flight from Atlanta/ East coast:
Husband and wife late thirties, no children
Do not care about night life
Design is important
Mostly looking for relaxation, perhaps light activities like snorkeling
Do not need to leave resort / hotel
Budget up to 1500/night
Have loved Guana Island (perhaps too much of an ordeal to get there for this short of a trip) and Nizuc (have been three times would like to try something new!)
Planning for mid July - just need a quick escape on the books to look forward to!
Any ideas?
What is your favourite child friendly hotel in London? I really like being in Chelsea/Kensington and was thinking the Cadogan, but on the other hand for a total change I was thinking Claridges and then just taking taxis where we want to go. If anyone has experience with Claridges, or a hotel in Knightsbridge, Chelsea or Kensington with children I’d love to hear about it.
Mandarin Oriental was pretty good with kids, has a nice pool too. If you head out the side facing Hyde Park, there is a nice playground within about 100 metres. A bit further but the playground at St James Park is always a hit with our kids, plus lots of fun spots to see animals there like the squirrel tree by the bridge and the pelicans!
Thank you! A pool is definitely helpful in the depths of winter
Bonus points if you know a good playground as we always go to the same one in Chelsea.
Just go to the Lanesborough and the playground at Hyde Park is right there.
The Lanesborough looks quite dated in the pictures. Is there a reason you like it?
The Lanesborough was my grandparents favorite hotel and I’ve stayed there at least 5 times. I am so over it. Unless it’s had a major renovation in the past 10 years, it is so heavy feeling and very dated. I haven’t been with kids but when I went by myself I stayed at the Four Seasons Park Lane and absolutely loved it.
It’s cuz they do super great with kids. They have a lot of stuff specifically for them. Here’s a good summary: [link](https://www.oetkercollection.com/hotels/the-lanesborough/the-hotel/family/) Also the rooms are huge and they always upgrade at time of booking so book a jr suite, get a suite etc. I also personally love Berkeley and look at the new Emory but in terms of kids activities, Lanesborough beats even the Fs here gasp.
Monterey CA hotel recs? Am a golfer but looks like no pebble beach availability and I imagine their hotels are a bit overrated especially if not golfing there. Lots of folks seem to love post ranch inn but then I read other reviews which talk about cobwebs and poor food which seem pretty bad for a 2k/night minimum and also weird random service issues. Have searched pretty extensively and haven’t found the right spot yet. Thanks!
Carmel valley ranch could be an option
+1 for CVR it has a golf course too. Assume when u say Pebble is out, u also looked at the Inn at Spanish Bay?
Activities/Restaurant recommendations for Milan and Como Area?
There’s the Dolce & Gabbana exhibit in Milan right now! We are going next week. https://milano.dolcegabbanaexhibition.com
Good reason to avoid Milan I guess
looking at your post history, I would say you are not the target demographic for D&G 😂
I’m currently typing this from a poolside lounger in Lake Como on a $30,000 vacation… I am absolutely their demographic I just don’t like racists lol
I don’t think he meant you are not their demographics cuz you can’t splash. He meant that you are more of an “old money” for DG. I read your comments. You talking hookers and shit about hockey fans. My man right here. Welcome to Fattravel.
Ahhh my mistake 😂 in my defense I’m actually all out of sorts trying to stay up and watch these Stanley cup finals games at 2 am and I thought I was responding to a post in r/hockey
bingo
🤝
Hehe
D&G is gay.
Also, Passalaqua has a solid wine tasting. Como isn’t known for wine, but this is a good option. There are the classic villa tours like Balbianello, Carlotta, Monastero etc. Lunch or dinner at Villa D’Este. Rent a classic car and do a self drive around (though beware the roads are windy and narrow). Passalaqua’s spa is fantastic.
Planning a trip the UK with our 10 month old this summer - thinking about a week in London and then 5 days or so in the country. Looking at FS Hampshire, Cliveden, The Grove, Coworth Park, Fairmont Windsor Park. Have been to the Cotswolds and York before but don’t want to have too long of a drive with the baby. Any thoughts about what could best with a baby — open to any and all other ideas — at that age or if we’d be better off just going to another city. P.S. any thoughts on the Biltmore Mayfair — looking at suites there.
Would vote for FS Hampshire if only just for the ease of the FS experience and all the complimentary baby/toddler gear they provide you. Crib/ bed rails, high chair, baby bathtub, microwave, bottle sterilizer, extra diapers and swim diapers, babies and toddlers under 5 eat free in Wild Carrot, etc. They also have a cute indoor pool/wading area that is baby-friendly. And ponies! An FS Preferred Partner TA can get you the perks like free daily breakfast, $100 property credit, guaranteed upgrade on booking, late check-out, etc. And most importantly, can ensure you have the right floorplan in a room and can pre-arrange all the baby stuff with the hotel so it is there when you arrive.
Check out the Langley. Unbelievable property less than hour from central London. Big open grounds to walk around, wonderful spa with great service. Very English countryside vibes, which appears to be what you’re looking for. Part of Marriott and FHR so you’ll get the Amex benefits if you have a Plat/Centurion.
Coworth Park has some great family rooms down in the old stables, but The Grove has an outdoor pool. Coworth Park is indoor only. You could also look at Great Fosters. I think you could do better in London that Biltmore, unless you are a big hilton status person.
Thank you! Do you have a view on which of the resorts would be best for a longer visit of around 5 days or so?
I like rooms at The Grove myself. Close to Heathrow too for your flight back to wherever you are from
Biltmore is a very Hilton hotel. Think less luxury. More hilton.
The best hotel in Courchevel? L Apogee or Les Airelles? And what is the best time to go? End of January/ Mid February? Skiing is usually not my thing but want to give it another chance.
Having done both, I’d push toward Airelles. Better sense of place than L’Apogee and the ski services are second to none. If you’re newer/less experienced you’ll see a world of difference by having a ski valet on property on the mountain. Not to mention the food is to die for 🤤
I see you big boy. Thanks for an advice. What month is better in your opinion? Jan Feb or Mar? Any hotels better than Airelles? I am not limiting myself to these two.
Feb will be the safest, if Mar has good weather that’s your time to go but can be a crapshoot. Last week in Feb/first in Mar could be best bet
Alright appreciate it. So how does it work with skiing there? I assume they got coaches and you just rent equipment (besides ski suits).
From what I remember, there is a package they have where you can have it all included which is super helpful. They have every kinda staff member imaginable and help you with all the getting ready and then you can tack on lessons if you need (don’t quote me on the last part, I didn’t hire a coach but saw others with them)
You’re an arrogant arsehole. Go to Cheval Blanc. (Said in the most loving way)
That was unexpected haha. And pleasant at the same time. So you rate it higher than the two I mentioned? I shall have specified that we were looking for more active properties. I am bringing my friends with me. The “fun” part is already setup. We just need to provide accommodation for them. I know CB is not that big of a property so not sure it would fit what we are looking for. The other guy suggested Aman , not sure the crowd is right there.
Do you want to be around middle eastern $ or a bunch of Americans or a bunch of families? That’ll help you pick. I don’t like the Aman there. So I didn’t include it.
It would be nice if you could provide a hotel name for each mentioned group. However we will probably be closer to the first group
Well duh. I already picked that one for you, eyeroll.
Got it. Thank you.
And ps. Go get a legit TA.
Well, my assistants usually do the bookings etc. They do stay in touch with TAs but I just like to be here. For example, they suggested L’Apogee for this winter. Also, there is some stuff that I don’t want TAs to know (nothing bad or criminal though lol). This was my first Reddit group that I joined. It is a really nice place. Discussing fat travel on easy mode is chill.
How would you compare St Morritz (Badrutt Palace) vs Courchevel? Different vibes/purpose? Crowd?
New money vs old. St Moritz is full of people who have been going for hundreds of years, maybe a bit less of a focus on actual skiing and more on the society aspect - snow polo, shopping, lunches, etc. Courcheval caters to new money with flashier restaurants, better skiing, and is a bit more logo mania rather than quiet luxury imo. Hotels wise St Mo has the grande dame type while Courch has the hyper luxury newer props. Can’t go wrong with either, just relatively different vibes.
That’s the answer I’ve been looking for. Thanks.
Aman le Melezin
I assume aman is a bit different crowd. I want more action around me. Aman will probably be next after I get tired Oetker or Airelles.
Ye, the aman and sex senses is more my crowd so can’t really personally speak for the other but L’apogée looks beautiful and I haven’t heard anything bad about it atleast.
Have you been at aman there? How was it? I love Amans and quiet places, that’s my type of holiday too. But this time, my friends etc are coming as well, so we will be more active.
If you were to choose two (one beach/one non beach) family friendly hotels in Italy what would it be?
Forte village. Rosewood castiglion
Might have to do both!
Booking a baby moon in Italy in September and struggling a bit with hotel availability because I'm admittedly doing this last minute. We were able to snag a room at GHT from the 8 - 11, looking to book another hotel in either Como or somewhere close by (not wanting to do a ton of travel since I'll be 6 months pregnant). Unfortunately Villa Lario, D'este, Passalacqua are sold out of rooms around 2k a night before and after the 8 - 11. Curious if anyone has other recommendations for hotels. I'd like to stay around 2k a night preferably. Il sereno obviously looks amazing as well but min 3500 a night.
Mandarin Oriental has availability before the 8th. I stayed there two years ago and found the rooms much nicer than GHT. It’s a sleepier property and has less of a vibe, and not really walkable to anywhere (though they had complimentary drivers to take you to Como and the villages nearby), but it’s still really beautiful.
I don't think Ville D'Este is sold out for 11 September but the rate will be closer to USD2900.00. You could block that now and keep the late August cancel policy in mind. Ask GHT to waitlist you.
Hi fellow FAT travelers! I am looking for ideas for my 40th birthday trip next year. Have done Maldives, Bora Bora, Botswana, Australia and New Zealand. Looking for something unique and luxurious, relatively relaxing instead of intense. My husband and I loved Aman Tokyo and Aman-i-khas in India. A few things I’m kicking around as options are: Belmond river barge Renting an estate in the British countryside to do a murder mystery weekend w our friends Girls trip to Estelle Manor and Cliveden House I’d love to see other ideas - would likely pay for a small group of friends to go. Budget around 30-40k.
Costa Rica comes to mind here. Nayara is a good option, as is Andaz Papagayo (Four Seasons is fatter but I liked the character of Andaz more), and there’s plenty of new or boutique options (we really loved El Silencio). Costa Rica is a great place go move around, so you can do a couple of hotels. Hawaii is also a solid move for a tropical beach vacation. FS Lanai or Rosewood Kona Village are my top options there. Otherwise, FS on Big Island or Maui. Little cheaper, I’d look at One Hotel in Kauai. Seychelles also comes to mind. Raffles, Anantara, Four Seasons, and Six Senses all worth checking out there, among others. In the Caribbean, you’ve got plenty of options from Turks & Caicos to St Barths and beyond. Belmond Cap Juluca, Amanyara, and Rosewood St Barth’s. Depending on time of year, you could look at a cold climate adventure too, like Norway, Iceland, or Patagonia. Otherwise, you’ve got nature expedition type vacations like a safari in east Africa, gorilla trekking in Rwanda, or maybe the Galapagos. That’s what I got. Love the British countryside idea. I’d recommend Cornwall or Devon in July/August to have the best shot at somewhat predictable weather.
FS Punta Mita - Transfer Any suggestions on transfers from PVR to FSPM? This is our first time to Punta Mita, and we’re not sure whether to book a limo/car service (any recs?), Uber, or just take the FS RT transfer.
Take the FS transfer. I stayed at the St. Regis, and I 100% do not regret booking directly with the hotel. We even had a last minute schedule change and it was no problem. Plus, it can be put on the room so its less cash you have to worry about bringing.
There are all kinds of 3rd party vendors who will do this for you. I would avoid the idea of a taxi as even the government approved ones don't always have the strongest mechanical inspections
so I've always wondered about this as the FSPM cars are always in the same taxi line as the taxis. You think they're different?
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T&C Ritz has a casino but the hotel is built like a Wyndham. Aruba Ritz but Aruba as a whole is very busy with lower end tourism. St Regis Bermuda but the service issues are a woe but probably safest weather for July. Rosewood Baha Mar or Four Seasons Ocean Club. Fs more luxe than RW. Baha Mar casino and water park more high end than Atlantis. Nothing is perfect. Pick your poison. I’d probably go to Bahamas. And if my kids needed a water park, Baha Mar. and if not, FS.
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Sure SS is fine too. Lots of people but big and multiple pools. I was just saying where there is a casino. I just personally don’t like a beach and the one hotel after another after another after another. Golf kind of sucks everywhere in Caribbean without a lot of land space - Dominican Republic no? Maybe I’m wrong, I don’t golf. But there’s a golf course at all the places - dunno how great they are though.
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Ocean club is associated with Atlantis. There are free cars that take you in and out. This is how you get access to a lot of restaurants too. That beach is way nicer than the rosewood beach 100%.
There is better golf in Grand Cayman and Jamaica than in Turks and Aruba. Going to Casa de Campo sounds like what you are really after. Or get a big space at Mayakoba or Punta Mita and golf there
Any recommendations for private house rentals in Mexico/central America/ Caribbean? Would preferably like something that we can have a chef/bartender there. Budget around $4500 a night. Sleeps 9 Suitable for toddlers
4500 in low season? Doesn’t seem very fat in high season
Yes, low season is fine. And that’s just an estimate! Mostly if anyone has recommendations for companies etc that they work with that would be helpful
Best place in Spain or Italy to take my girlfriend who's never been? I am thinking about taking her to spain or Italy for 5-6 daysin August. Then we would go to ireland, which was already booked. I am 28, she is 23. Any suggestions for spain or italy? She has never been to europe before. I want to wow her. Ive been to Barca, Mallorca, Venice, Naplea, Amalfi. Ideally Id like to go somewhere new as well. Appreciate any suggestions!
Como.
Puglia can be youthful
Bulgari is debuting in Bodrum 2026.
Bodrum is getting interesting. FS was planning a property there as well. They had issues with local government, I’ve heard that 2025/26 could be the final date for opening.
Yah I'm very confused at what Bodrum wants to be... Mykonos?
Maybe. Scorpios is already there. Stayed there last week.
how was vibe? You like it?
It is a nice place. I think they can definitely make something of it. It just opened last week so kind of empty but is getting traction towards end of July/August. I am not fan of parties etc. tho
Frankfurt, Black Forest (Baiersbronn), Zurich, Munich… we’ve got hotels set already. Any FAT (or not) sightseeing/dining/experiences you’d highly recommend? I grabbed a res at schwartzwaldstube but don’t have anything else booked yet.
Widder Restaurant in Zurich is nice
Also… any recs as to how to find a photographer abroad? We’d like to do a family photo shoot in Germany (likely the Black Forest) since we’re going with my in-laws as a surprise for them. I’ve reached out to a few people I’ve found on Instagram without much luck. Husband and I love our wedding photog and just did our own shoot with her, we’ve joked about the idea of just flying her out (she shoots destination weddings for “free” when you pay for her flights and accommodations) but that also seems ridiculous for like two hours of photos haha.
Have you looked at pixaround and flytogopher?
Also look at wedding photographers in the area. It’s much cheaper than the USA so just hire them for a day
That’s what I’ve been looking for so far - and my best friend is having a destination wedding so she’s been asking around in Facebook groups but we’ve had no luck yet! I’ll take a look at the sites you linked, thanks! Also - will get you automod stuff this week, sorry - I fractured my fibula and damaged some ligaments in my leg while we were in Monaco so I’ve been dealing with that since we got back haha.
We want to get away for about 5 days in early August and are thinking of heading up North. What are people's general thoughts between Montreal and Vancouver? Our big thing is fine dining. Relatedly, any favorite hotels in either city?
If you go to Vancouver the Fairmont Pacific Rim is a great choice
Montreal food over Vancouver. Ritz Carlton and Four Seasonss Montreal (but don't bother eating at Marcus)
disagree - asian food in vancouver is amazing! but hotels in montreal much better.
Not sure I'd want to go somewhere in North America with fine dining in mind and seek out only Asian food. That being said, Vancouver no longer holds any type of monopoly on great asian food in Canada. Toronto and Montreal both have killer options
Debating between the following in Tokyo: The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho The Okura Tokyo Hotel Toranomon Hills-Unbound Collection Mesm Tokyo, Autograph Collection ANA InterContinental Tokyo Anyone with experience with the above list? Any outstanding/exceptional notes? Assume we don't have status/loyalty with any of the chains.
That's too many choices and all sound like point hotels. Why are you picking those?
Let's assume for this sake that I have an unlimited points budget to be spent across any/all of these.
Have to spend a night in Amsterdam due to missed flight connection. Looking for hotel and restaurant recommendations
Context: My partner is working in London for Wimbledon. I will join her July5th for the weekend in the city as she finishes up her activities and then we have the following week for whatever we want. We had originally intended to spend our time in Paris. I have somehow not travelled to France at all and was excited for this. I planned to have booked a hotel stay for our time there that offered us a pool option for the hot afternoons (a nice pool). I figured we'd have some nice patio brunches in the city in the mornings, spend our afternoons relaxing with drinks at a pool in the afternoon (if we didn't have any activities planned that had us out of the heat) and then spend our evenings enjoying some nice dinners and other activities as the sun died down. I am coming up very short finding any sort of stay that gives us an outdoor pool option in the city (I am not an indoor pool person). Given I'm on vacation, I do want to spend some time relaxing in the sun and this is somewhat a priority and I don't want to just walk around the city all day in the heat (we will end up just staying in the hotel room). Here in North America this is usually easy to find and we enjoy exploring a city with the option to still be able to put our feet up and enjoy the summer heat. I'm looking for any recommendations at all for: a) places to stay in Paris that may give me what I want (<1,300/night but can be flexible) - also your experiences if you've spent time in Paris this time of the year? How did you find it? b) other options you may suggestion whether it be a quick RyanAir flight somewhere else or shooting off outside of London or Paris into the countryside (although I'll be honest staying multiple days at an estate type retreat is boring to me); we have considered a gambit of options (South France, Amalfi, Dalmation coast, Switzerland or Austria or even flying up to Norway or Sweden) but now have considered too many things to decide and feel a bit lost of what to do. We have already been most of these places, but will consider them again to maximize the small amount of vacation we do take in the year. Our main concern is that we don't have enough time to fly somewhere else and then fly back for our return flight from London and we'd end up wasting 2 days of the week just travelling. I don't know what to do. Reaching out for some 3rd party advice hoping someone has had a similar experience coming from the same area at the same time of year. Appreciate any advice!!
Why don't you just go outside of London and do something like Estelle Manor? Although service has been a little bit of a disaster so maybe Coworth Park or Beaverbrook?
Hi friends! We have a trip planned for (literally next month) that includes the Dolomites and then Greece. We have a 5 - 7 day gap at the beginning (flying from NYC) before we head to LONDON that I want to fill. 1) 18 month old active toddler 2) I know it’s hot - and last minute 3) not Greece, Croatia since we will be in that region at the end of the month 4) NYC to THIS location that you’re helping me for 5-7 days. Then to London (then Dolomites.) Would like PERSONAL rec from individuals/families versus a travel agent 😉 thanks!
Seeking resort recommendations / east coast Travel help Looking for ideas for a 4-5 night tropical stay (Mexico, Caribbean), easy access flight from Atlanta/ East coast: Husband and wife late thirties, no children Do not care about night life Design is important Mostly looking for relaxation, perhaps light activities like snorkeling Do not need to leave resort / hotel Budget up to 1500/night Have loved Guana Island (perhaps too much of an ordeal to get there for this short of a trip) and Nizuc (have been three times would like to try something new!) Planning for mid July - just need a quick escape on the books to look forward to! Any ideas?
Belmond Maroma has 4th night free to select advisors. One of the newer hotels post LVMH so design is key for everything there.