PORTOFINO IS PERFECTION When we say “Italian Riviera,” what comes to mind? Perhaps, old stone buildings painted like a rainbow crouching on a cliff over a curving seaport; sleek yachts and speedboats lining a small harbor; jet setters wandering the sandstone piazza in and out of luxury boutiques; or hours of people watching while sipping coffee from a cafe al fresco? Portofino is all of these things. The ultimate reason for visiting Portofino is that everyone is looking to be seen, but not make a scene in this picture-perfect destination. Portofino does not have the high-voltage discos or raucous nightlife of other Riviera destinations (which is often a good thing), so it is an idyllic romantic getaway. Be warned that the secret is out about Portofino so it can get crowded with tourists – if you can avoid the weekend rush, it is even better. The few hotels are luxurious, pampering and discreet: making them perfect for your very own secluded pied-à-terre. At Belmond Hotel Splendido, wake up to incredible views of the Ligurian Sea from your private flower-covered terrace in this traditional luxury hotel. Built in the 1920’s, Belmond Hotel Splendido still possesses all of the romantic charm of the era, while also offering exceptional modern-day bespoke services. Bello!
Photography Courtesy Belmond Hotel Splendido
Portofino: www.portofinotourism.com Belmond Hotel Splendido: www.belmond.com
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People don't take trips, trips take people.
– John Steinbeck
A GOLDEN AGE MANSION IN AMSTERDAM Amsterdam is romantic any month of the year. It could be the tulips that remain blooming in the flower boxes on the windows in the old town during this time of the year, or the elegant little wooden boats with well-dressed locals sipping champagne while serenely floating down the canals for those afternoon cruises. The grand life here is centered around the signature canals, unique collections of art, cutting-edge museums, Nieuw Amsterdam cuisine, and endless amounts of water everywhere. Our favorite hotel for romance is the Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam. Unique in that it encompasses six elegantly restored 17th and 18th century Patrician mansions along Herengracht (Gentleman's Canal), which once belonged to wealthy merchants. Here, your own concierge greets you – quickly making it obvious that no request you make will go unfulfilled during your stay here. An outstanding Michelin two-star restaurant, Librije’s Zusje Amsterdam, is at your service for an extraordinary dinner for two. Did I also mention the Guerlain Spa’s Couples Treatments? Fabulous!
Photography Courtesy Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
Amsterdam: www.iamsterdam.com Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam: www.waldorfastoria3.hilton.com LUX EG E TAWAYS.C OM
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