NYC: A Boutique Hotel in the Heart of the City

Finding a hotel in New York is easy. Finding a hotel that's quiet, spacious, and reasonably priced is another story. That's what motivated us to mention The Fitzpatrick Hotels, two family-owned boutique hotels that offer all of the above and pride themselves on European style with personalized service.

We stayed at the recently renovated Fitzpatrick Manhattan Hotel located in the heart of the city’s most popular retail district at 687 Lexington Avenue between East 56th and East 57th Street. Impressed with the absolute calm in the heart of such bustle was impressive, it's perfectly situated just a few blocks from Central Park and the Guggenheim. All 91 guest rooms and suites have been renovated with owner John Fitzpatrick actively involved in re-designing every area of the hotel, drawing inspiration from the finest country estates of Ireland. The finished product is perfect for couples, small families, and business travelers... a quiet sanctuary in midtown that is both warm and elegant.
Both properties offer deluxe accommodations including traditional Irish canopy beds with pillow-top mattresses (so comfortable it was hard to get out of bed!), Irish chocolates at turndown, high speed wireless internet, and spacious bathrooms. The hotel restaurants, The Wheeltapper, at the Fitzpatrick Grand Central, and The Fitz, in the Fitzpatrick Manhattan, offer traditional Irish cuisine with a modern flare and a dark sexy bar setting that is discrete enough for that fly-by-night romance. We give it two thumb's up and plan to tell our business associates and relatives next time they're looking for a well-priced and comfortable spot near all the major museums and restaurants.

Room rates from $179

www.fitzpatrickhotels.com

Also not to be missed. Right down the street at the Hiro Haraguchi salon on 41 East 57th Street at the corner of Madison and East 57th Street, there's a luxe organic hair treatment developed by resident stylist Mordechai Alvow. The line of organic essential oils called 'YAROK' promises to give new life to drab tresses. We recommend checking out the latest Frank Lloyd Wright exhibit at the Guggenheim, grabbing some lunch an an outdoor boite, and then heading your weary tresses to Hiro Haraguchi's salon. Mordechai Alvow’s on-going quest for performance-driven products healthy for clients and the environment motivated him to create YAROK, a blend of base and essential oils, handpicked for their medicinal and sensory benefits throughout history, and grown so as to retain the highest possible concentration of nutrients.
Each of the seven serums is designed to deliver a heightened sensory experience while addressing seven specific scalp and hair conditions in both men and women, resulting from blow-drying, chemical processing, product overload, free radical assaults and everyday stress -- offering a personalized solution for lifeless hair.

Seven Nourishing YAROK Serums include:

· Serum 2: Real Brunettes with Rosemary and Hemp Oil -- Rosemary, a naturally stimulating essential oil, controls dandruff and encourage hair growth. It also preserves all shades of brown hair. Hemp Oil, derived from essential fatty acids, is believed to aid in healing.

· Serum 6: Booster For Men with Jasmine and Camellia Oil -- Recommended for frequent flyers whose traveling -- and high altitudes in general -- creates a moisture imbalance in the scalp which over time, coupled with stress, sleep deprivation and poor nutrition (as well as genetics), can lead to hair loss and thinning. Jasmine Oil is a fast-acting hydrator that helps reduce trans-epidermal moisture loss that can dry out scalp and hair, while Camellia Oil is a super-moisturizer.

Treatment is $100.
Individual serums for take-home use $60.

www.hiroharaguchi.com

Amsterdam: citizenM - Luxury on a Budget

Finally! Affordable European travel is back. Explorers, culture-seekers, professionals and shoppers, take note.

citizenM – short for 'Citizen Mobile' – is a hot new line of modern, luxury budget hotels in Amsterdam (and soon more parts of Europe). When it comes to design, think IKEA clean meets Capellini chic. Known for their style, great value, and excellent locations in Amsterdam, citizenM offers the latest technology, a social atmosphere, a funky fresh setting, comfortable bed and great pillows because, as they say, 'you can never, ever underestimate the pillow.'
Approachable, sleek, and worldly, how do they do it?

The answer lies in their construction called ‘Industrial Flexible Demountable’, rooms are pre-made in their own special factory off-site. This factory ensures that citizenM’s rooms are of a comparable quality to that of a luxury yacht or private jet. Only the best materials are used and their modular system combines functionality with comfort and design. Their goal just might be the future of design in the hotel industry. Keep your eyes open as hotels are planned across Europe – in all major cities – such as: London, Barcelona, Glasgow, Berlin, Stockholm, Brussels, Milan, Copenhagen, Moscow, Paris, Istanbul, Warsaw, Budapest to name a few.

From €89 and up.

www.citizenm.com

Bangkok, Thailand: The Metropolitan's Chic Bargain

While it may be the dead of winter, it’s summertime south of the equator, baby! So you know what that means? It may be brisk and windy outside, but somewhere on the planet the deals are hot, hot, hot. Like its counterpart in London, the Metropolitan Bangkok is cutting travelers a break. A City Room (normally $260 per night) can be had for just $99 per night – 62% off! Similar savings are on hand for a Studio Room, now $119 down from $300 (60% off), and a Metropolitan Room, now $150 down from $320 (53% off).

From the modernist façade to the staff’s Comme des Garçons uniforms and DJs spinning tracks at the trendy Met Bar, this is a hotel with serious style. The Metropolitan is ground zero in Bangkok, a sultry city that’s become a go-to spot for flocks of hip international travelers, Tucked away on South Sathorn Road in the city’s Central Business District, the hotel is minutes from the city’s main shopping areas and a 40-minute drive to the International Airport.

The offer, valid through the end of April, is subject to availability. Room reservations must be booked and fully paid seven days prior to arrival; while payment is non-refundable, it can be changed or revised subject to availability. To secure these rates, one must book for a minimum of two consecutive nights, and rates are room only (exclusive of breakfast) and subject to 10% service charge and 7% government tax. The offer cannot be combined with any other offer.

www.metropolitan.como.mz/bangkok

Jerusalem, Israel: Hanging in the Holy Land

There's one thing I must confess. I married a lovely Israeli man... and I still haven't made it to the Holy Land. My inner-Heb cries, "If I should forget Jerusalem, my left hand should fall." Or something like that. In case it sounds pathetic, keep this in mind... we've only been married for a year and we're planning The Big Trip now. That said, as a travel writer, I can tell you all about the top hotels in the world with eye-popping amenities that cost anywhere from $300-$1,000/night, but that doesn't mean I don't a) go ga-ga when I find a good deal and b) want to know where the real locals stay.

In my quest, I queried a man whose knowledge of Israel, quality (and that doesn't always mean 600-thread count Frette linens), and, most importantly, authenticity, is second to none. That's right... my husband.

So here's a little secret gem that's definitely not your generic luxurious, five-star hotel, but rather, an Arab-Israeli owned boutique hotel.

Concentrated in only a few hundred feet are Al-Aqsa Mosque, The Church of the Holy Sepulcher (where even the most die-hard American Jew isn't immune to the holiness of Christ's stomping grounds), and, of course, The Wailing Wall, the most important sacred sites of the top three monotheistic religions.

What my main man likes best?

There's a wine bar in the entrance, it's cheap (anywhere from $30-$100/night), and a REAL spot for those wanting to see Jerusalem, even if it means you'll likely hear street-sellers in the morning and the hustle and bustle of Jews - and Muslims - living peacefully side-by-side in the heart of the Holy Land.

As Whoopi on Virtual Tourist says, "Some of the double rooms have a balcony out to the busy street and also have two floors in the room. These are great! The whole hotel is also very relaxed and cozy with lots of things hanging on the walls, everything from garments to photos and poetry. Lots of sofas and chairs everywhere and it gives you the feeling of being in some nice, but weird old lady's house. Just outside you find everything you need from internet cafes to stores, restaurants, market and tourist attractions."

And really, when you're in the Holy Land, what better place to be?

45 Bedrooms, cable satellite in the lobby, on-site laundry, an internet lounge open 24 hrs., a safe deposit box, and a panoramic view of Jerusalem from the roof-top.

Tell them Jaunt Magazine sent you.

www.newimperial.com

Sleep It Off: An Eco-Chic Boutique B&B - Hollywood, CA

An eco-chic boutique B&B right in the middle of Hollywood? Wait a minute. Why haven't I ever written about this before? I know I've seen it.

Good thing I was chatting up Erika McQueen, my Pilates instructor at Whole Body Gallery; otherwise, I never would have known just how cool it actually is. She and her hubby, Dougald, own the place.

Perfect for the semi-working actor, DP, writer, or family member, Hollywood Pensione is a 1915 Craftsman specializing in weekly stays. Featuring eco-pure rooms with specially-made organic mattresses, fine organic bed linens by Anna Sova, complimentary organic wine and dark chocolate truffles, and state of the art in-room technology like flat screen TV's, DVD's, and high speed WiFi, it was 'designed for the discerning traveler and professional seeking the privacy of a hotel, with the comforts and conveniences of home for short and long term visits to Los Angeles.'

Walking distance from the Hollywood sign, Griffith Park, the Metro Station, cafes, markets, shops and Hollywood landmarks including the Mann Chinese Threatre, Walk of Fame, Kodak Theatre, Hollywood Bowl, and Hollywood & Highland, it's close to the studios and offers a different, more unique sort of experience than the other (more pricey) digs near Sunset or Beverly Hills.

Just what you might be looking for when it comes to planting those creative seedlings.

Oh, and the owner? She says she's adding a yoga studio so you can thankfully leave Hollywood with a tighter ass too.

Rates are from $149/daily - $2,000/month

1845 N. Wilton
Hollywood Ca. 90028
Tel: (323) 369-2411
hollywoodpensione@gmail.com

www.hollywoodpensione.com

LAX: The Luxe Layover

Finally! A hot hotel near LAX for the design-driven diva in need of some budget-conscious digs.

The Custom Hotel, located at the southwest corner of Lincoln and Manchester near Marina Del Rey, is Avi Brosh's answer to the luxe layover. An ultra-modern 250-room hotel intended to fill a void in the LAX area, The Custom was originally designed by Welton Beckett, the renowned mid-century architect known for his modernist approach with LA landmarks like the Capitol Records building, Cinerama Dome, and Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Now, with the help of Brosh's Palisades Development Group, the 12-floor hotel has undergone an extensive renovation, transforming the tower into a sleek contemporary space.

Accents include a stadium sundeck, an outdoor heated pool, poolside tapas bar, fire pit and DJ lounge.

“We saw a need in this area of Los Angeles for a lifestyle-driven hotel that caters to a customer looking for great design at a modest price,” said Avi Brosh, President of Palisades Development Group. “Over 80% of transient business to L.A. stays near LAX, and those travelers are craving some place fresh and fun to visit. It will be the antidote to boring beige airport hotels.”

We agree, Avi. Beige is such a snooze.

The hotel boasts some of the city’s most panoramic views, including those of the ocean, Malibu, Hollywood Hills and Downtown LA and features espresso check-in, a 24-hour restaurant, live DJ’s nightly, layover rooms and numerous lounges. Rooms include flat screen TV’s, iPod docking and stocked mini bars. Other creature comforts? Complimentary wireless, high-speed Internet and organic bath amenities!! That's right... our eco-loving spirit gets giddy at the thought of organic products.

Room rates start at just $119/night.

Jaunt says, “Have a lay….over.”

www.customhotel.com

Sleep It Off: London

Whether you’re sleeping off a good shag or still pissed from those drinks on the plane, here are a few select spots to rest your weary head. We’ve handpicked a small group of properties that fall into the following categories: quaint little gem in a hip part of town that won’t break the bank and sweet digs worth the splurge because, well…
you only live once.

Portobello Hotel
Notting Hill, baby. In a converted neo-classical mansion, you’ll nuzzle your lovey and feel like the King’s top courtesan. Remember, you’re playing in pounds so even luxe moderately priced digs like this will make a small dent. They also offer a hotel apartment rooms for those wishing to live like a Queen just a little longer.

From £142-£310
www.portobello-hotel.co.uk

The Main House
This one you’re really gonna thank me for… each suite occupies an entire floor in this home away from home that starts at an amazingly low £50/night. Private bathrooms and wireless internet, a complimentary newspaper with morning coffee or tea is brought to the room or enjoyed on the balcony. Too good to be true? The Main House is also just a minute from the famous Portobello Road, antique markets, designer shops and art galleries. Man, it sure is good to know smart travelers.
www.themainhouse.co.uk


Blue Bells
Also known as Number 14 or 14 Pembridge Square. Ideally located in the heart of Notting Hill in Kensington, this place is just flat-out pretty. An 18th Century Victorian building situated in a quiet residential square makes you feel like you live here. At £55-£125/night it’s another sweet steal that might make you want to bake me a fluffy cake or buy me a really nice bottle of wine. (Du Vin on San Vicente has a Viognier with my name on it… winky wink)

www.bluebellshotel.com

#5 Cavendish Square
It's a sophisticated club, a restaurant, and a boutique hotel. Take a Whiskey Bar with dark mahogany wood, plush leather seating, a restaurant with dark red walls, and a menu that features homemade pastas and brilliant wines, this former Spanish Embassy turned exclusive nightclub, restaurant and hotel even boasts a rooftop terrace.

www.no5ltd.com

Base2stay
Contemporary chic budget accommodations, it’s all about Base2stay. The rooms are small, but absolutely clean and crisp, you’ll thank me for introducing you to a place that’s a steal at £89/night.


www.base2stay.com

Sloane Square Hotel
Located in Chelsea aka. central London, this hotel was suggested from a friend of a friend of a friend on asmallworld. Thanks, random friend of a friend. Modern, beautifully designed rooms with Philippe Starck basins and blackout drapes, you’re just a quick jaunt to Tiffany’s, Gucci and everyone’s favourite London landmark… Harrods!
From £140/night

www.sloanesquarehotel.co.uk

These properties say chic like no one’s business.

St Martins Lane Hotel
Part of the Morgan’s Hotel Group that also operate the Delano, Mondrian, and Sanderson (see below), this 5 star Covent Garden hotel says ‘dazzling’ with it’s interactive light displays, Asia de Cuba restaurant, and Philippe Starck sex appeal. Atmospheric lighting throughout the hotel and in the rooms shift from pink to orange to green. In the Light Bar, Raspassion Martinis and Elderflower Collins are sipped alongside giant black and white photographs of different people making funny expressions. If you’ve got the dough, flaunt it here. Starts at around £245 so better enjoy yourself, sweetcheeks.

www.stmartinslane.com



Sanderson
With a similarly swank vibe to St. Martins Hotel, in the heart of the West End is The Sanderson. Their Purple Bar is like no place you’ve ever seen... or been. With a Dali-esque twist, at some 80-feet in length, their glowing onyx Long Bar is another spot to thank yourself for a life well led. Expect to see beautiful people and men with style.


www.sandersonlondon.com

SoHo Hotel
Average price £320. Average accommodations? No siree. Ultra fabulous. Entirely cool. This is considered by many as the #1 hotel in London for luxury, service, and design. The Tatler calls it the ‘Most Glamorous Hotel in the World.’ We call it posh and extravagant. Along with the Charlotte Street Hotel, Covent Garden Hotel, The Metropolitan and Number 16, this is a member of Design Hotels.

www.firmdale.com

The Berkeley
I love Maybourne Hotels. They’re classic, luxurious, and have the finest staff in the world… right up there with the Ritz. You can’t really go wrong with any of them. Claridges is world famous among nobility and The Berkeley world famous among discrete celebs (psstt... Madonna loves The Blue Bar).


What is The Blue Bar? you ask. Think a more refined Purple Bar. One also mustn’t miss their Fashionista Pret-a-Portea experience.

Starts at around £349 so you do the math.

www.the-berkeley.co.uk

Now where were we? Oh yeah… you were ready to book your Virgin Atlantic flight, find a good shag and get pissed on the plane.

Toodles.
-- LR