Resorts Magazine 97 by THE WORLD'S MOST EXCLUSIVE DESTINATIONS by Ovidio Guaita

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Setting off again! ortuga fri a an are waiting for you!

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eri a

EDITORIAL Ovidio Guaita, International Editor-in-Chief

etting off again. But to go where? The early twentieth century represented the apotheosis of luxury and frivolity with Thomas Cook & Sons who ushered in the era of tour operators and travel agencies. His steamboats plowed the Nile, pouring crowds of wealthy Englishmen on its banks attracted by history and climate. But it was also the period of large trains, such as the Orient-Express and ocean liners. Mauritania, Normandie, Queen Mary, their names still evoke atmospheres never matched again. The tragic sinking of the Titanic marked the end of an era; the crisis of 1929 then saw the economies of half the world falter and the end of many great aristocracies. With the revival of the Thirties, the balance had now changed. In 1936 the right to paid holidays was sanctioned in France. In England, the Y.M.C.A. (Young Men’s Christian Association) originated and would then spread to the United States setting up a dense network of youth hostels. All over the world associations of scouts (“explorers”) were proselytized and summer camps for children were springing up in seaside and mountain resorts. Traveling and staying, even if still not far from the place of residence and mainly in one’s own state, became within the reach of the middle and small bourgeoisie. The first to move were the young children - always in the name of the therapeutic stay - but the Méditerranée clubs were now upon us and with them the bed & breakfasts, campsites, all-inclusive travels and Airbnbs. It was a journey in stages that in many ways has led us to transform ourselves from travelers to tourists. The restart that has been awaiting us in recent months is a unique opportunity to reset our approach to travel and return to being attentive travelers, giving us time to see after having looked. Go beyond your expectations with Resorts Magazine!

Be Transported

To Quintessential New York City.

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SOMMARIO

Diamond Rock Tignes, France

Great Scotland Yard London, United Kingdom

Grand Hotel Fasano Fasano, Italia

ME Milan Il Duca Milano, Italia

Trip to Italy

25hours Piazza San Paolino Firenze, Italia

Hotel degli Orafi Firenze, Italia

Hotel Glance Firenze, Italia

Relais Piazza Signoria Firenze, Italia

SOMMARIO

Palazzo Belfiore Firenze, Italia

Palazzo del Moro Firenze, Italia

Palazzo San Niccolò Firenze, Italia

Grand Hotel Palace Roma, Italia

Trip to Italy

D.O.M. Roma, Italia

Palazzo Dama Roma, Italia

The First Roma Arte Roma, Italia

The First Roma Dolce Roma, Italia

SOMMARIO

Hotel Locarno Roma, Italia

Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá Roma, Italia

104

The Lumiares Lisboa, Portugal

108

The Vintage Lisboa, Portugal

travels4 travelers

116

Azor Hotel Ponta Delgata, São Miguel, Açores

120

Terra Nostra Garden Furnas, São Miguel, Açores

120

M Social Hotel Paris Opera Paris, France

136

Maison Albar Hotels Le Vendome Paris, France

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H otels &

HOTEL COLONIALI

R es o r t s Ov id io

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Ovidio Guaita

Places to Stay in Florence & Nearby

HOTEL COLONIALI PP

T op I t a lia n Top Italian Hotels & Resorts

The best properties among hotels and resorts have been chosen - all of them visited and evaluated. Go beyond your expectations. Let yourself be led by your emotions for a stay that will never be more memorable.

This directory offers an annotated and up-todate instrument for the possible destinations for those who want to stay in the city or nearby. This because sometimes it is not only a question of price but rather attention to detail, passion and taste. Questa directory offre uno strumento aggiornato e ragionato sulle possibili destinazioni per chi vuole soggiornare in città o nelle vicinanze. Perché a volte non è solo questione di prezzo ma di attenzione al dettaglio, passione e gusto.

L’autore, Paolo Gerbaldo, è inviato di Resorts Magazine.

Le strutture migliori tra hotel e resort. Tutte visitate e valutate. Andate oltre le vostre aspettative, lasciatevi guidare dalle emozioni per un soggiorno che non potrà che essere memorabile.

Top 100

Dal Settecento fino alla seconda guerra mondiale. Due secoli di lusso ai tropici, tra ventilatori a pale, verande, tè pomeridiani e stuoli di servitori. Molti in Asia ma anche nelle colonie africane e in Centro America. Una storia affascinante di lungimiranti investitori, pionieri e avventurieri costellata di nomi eccellenti come Raffles, Peninsula e Strand. Questa directory ci mostra i migliori esempi sopravvissuti dove sperimentare esperienze e atmosfere d’altri tempi.

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aggiornare ISBN PalidanoPress Four Seasons Hotel Firenze

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F l or en ce Four Seasons Hotel Firenze

Top 100

2020 PalidanoPress

and nearb y PalidanoPress

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XVII, n. 97 2022 International Editor-in-Chief Ovidio Guaita Senior Editor Lawrence Taylor Contributors Elsa Bozzaotra, Riccardo Casano, Maria Coscarelli, Paola Di Girolamo, Paolo Gerbaldo, Alessandra Jovinelli, Pamela McCourt Francescone, Agnese Frullatori Translations Lawrence Taylor, Agnese Frullatori Photos Ovidio Guaita, Lawrence Taylor, Paolo Gerbaldo, Paolo Levi, hotel e resort pubblicati Video for iPad and iPhone app Roberto Sessoli Graphic Design Niccolò Angeli www.nican.me Layout Graphic Department Palidano Press Subscription Europe 300 € Rest of the world 350 € Publisher PalidanoPress Kemp House, 152 - 160 City Road London EC1V 2NX (UK) Palidano Press is a Trade Mark of Palidano LLC

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Villa della Pergola, Alassio

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Castel Fragsburg, Merano

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A fairy-tale awakening in the luxury of a grand hotel

Via Vittorio Veneto 70 - Roma, Italy - T +39 06 47871 - reservations.rome@millenniumhotels.com - www.millenniumhotels.com

TIGNES

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A modern and dynamic alpine station. The atmosphere of the mountains - enjoying a majestic alpine setting - characterizes Tignes, Savoy’s international winter resort, which offers an excellent opportunity for a mountain stay in both winter and summer. In the enchanting scenery of the snowy woods, an immersion in alpine nature can be best experienced using snowshoes. This is just one of the many experiences offered by this modern and dynamic French Alpine resort designed not to disappoint those who love the mountains at 360°.

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MOUNTAIN HOTEL | TIGNES

Diamond Rock Tignes

n envelope of casual elegance embellished with touches of mountain classicism is what the Diamond Rock hotel in Tignes designs to best accommodate its guests.

The Diamond Rock immediately transports you to a world of inspired contemporar y sophistication. In fact, high-level hospitality is combined with attention to satisfy those who intend to practice skiing and winter sports without forgetting to pamper those looking for well-being and tranquility. To characterize the refined interior spaces of this treasure chest are its contemporary lines which, in a balanced way, amalgamate different materials: wood, stone and marble. This is all entrusted to the attentive care of Reyhana Tamboura. The attention to detail and the per fect assonance of the shades help to create the modern charm of Diamond Rock.

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Paolo Gerbaldo

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MOUNTAIN HOTEL | TIGNES

A ver y pleasant interlude is created by the stops at restaurants. The subtle alchemy between modernity and tradition - where mountain and Savoyard influences predominate - characterizes Le Bôrna, entrusted to chef Marion Eyraud. The menu of chef Max Eon in the gastronomic restaurant Les Cimes, modulates and enhances delicate and recognizable flavors thus offering an exciting progression of sensations. Contrasts of tones give the Pure Altitude Spa a strong evocative sense: a plus that best accompanies relaxation and physical regeneration. The Diamond Rock of Tignes thus translates into reality ever yone’s dream: that of being happy.

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MOUNTAIN RESORT | TIGNES

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DIAMOND ROCK Tignes, France www.diamond-rock.fr Rooms & Suites 64 Villas 0 - Restaurants 2 Spa yes Children yes Chain none Affiliation none Activities mountain activities Score Environment Design & Art Service Cuisine Health Spa Rooms

80 60 87 80 83 80 82 88

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MOUNTAIN RESORT | TIGNES

La Table du Panoramic

Tignes

n t h is enchant ing al p ine u n iver se, n estled at t h e fo o t o f t he Grande M o t te glacier, th e star red re s t a u rant La Tab l e du Pano ramic offer s a pr ivileged ga s t ro no mic exp er ience - st ar tin g with th e place i t s e l f to co nt inu e w it h t he dish es proposed by th e c h e fs J ean-M ichel et C l ément B o uvier, fath er an d son . G u e s ts discover dishes ab l e to satisfy th e n eeds of t h os e wh o d o n o t want to give u p t he mo st auth entic tex tures a n d f lavor s of fered by t he t radit io nal b ut, at th e same time, a l s o g ou r m a n d cu isine w hich enhances high qualit y produc ts su c h a s m e at a nd fish by co o k ing t hem o n wood.

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Paolo Gerbaldo

INFO

PANORAMIC Tignes, France www.les-suites-du-nevada.com

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CITY HOTEL | LONDON

Great Scotland Yard

London

reat Scotland Yard is London’s chicest new address, a 5-star luxury hotel and the country’s

first Hyatt Unbound Collection, an innovative portfolio of premium properties. In the heart of the capital, close to the theaters and restaurants of the West End and to Covent Garden and its world-class opera house, in the late 1800s the Edwardian red brick building was the headquarters of the Metropolitan Police, and inspired authors such as Charles Dickens and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle of Sherlock Holmes fame. In even earlier days it used to be the London place of residence of the kings of Scotland when they crossed the border to visit Queen Elizabeth I at her palace in nearby Whitehall Palace - hence the name Great Scotland Yard. Subtle police-related themes are everywhere in the public spaces and in the rooms, with rugs inspired by police badges, mug shots on the walls and wallpaper with silhouettes of uniforms, while the bathrooms have key-shaped hooks for the bathrobes. The 152 rooms are bright and airy with high ceilings and white furnishings, and many of them have fireplaces and views over London’s rooftops. The Sherlock Suites have four-poster beds, and there are eleven rooms for guests with disabilities. The flagship is the Townhouse on five floors with its own street entrance, two bedrooms, a living room, and a family room. 34

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Pamela McCourt Francescone

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CITY HOTEL | LONDON

The 40 Elephants Bar (named after a 1800s gang of lady shoplifters in London’s Elephant and Castle district) is open all day for light meals, craft beers, and cocktails. Booked many months ahead, Ekstedt at The Yard is the British debut of Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt. In the open kitchen - using wood cooking techniques and prime locally sourced ingredients Chef Niklas’ menus are inspired by the great Scandinavian outdoors. The Sibin, hidden behind a panel of books, with over 100 bottles of whiskey from all over the world (including many limited editions) has a cocktail and snack menu, and The Parlor at Great Scotland Yard is an exclusive rendezvous for afternoon tea with the mouth-watering and inspired patisserie from pastry chef Veronica Garrido Martinez. 36

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GREAT SCOTLAND YARD London, UK www.hyatt.com Rooms & Suites 160 Villas 0 - Restaurants 4 Spa no Children yes Chain Hyatt Unbound Collection Affiliation none Activities sightseeing Score Environment Design & Art Service Cuisine Health Spa Rooms

70 68 91 87 92 65 0 85

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LAKE HOTEL | GARDONE RIVIERA

Grand Hotel Fasano

Gardone Riviera, Lago di Garda

he Grand H o tel Fasano & Villa Pr in c ipe in G ardo ne R iviera decl ines a ran ge of h igh -level ser vices w hich cer t ainl y do n ot disappoint exp ec t at io ns. I n fac t, it s h istor ic n eoc lassic al architec t u ral fo r ms discre etly welcome guests fro m t he mo ment t hey ar r ive in th is delightful o asis o f t ranquil it y, b eautifully situated on th e Lo m b a rd s h ore o f Lake G arda and sur ro un ded by a c h ar min g pa r k . E nve l op e d i n t his dream u niverse, you are th erefore i m m e d i ate l y at ease. The refined at mo sp here of th e cultivated i nte r i or s of t h e Grand H o tel Fasano t hen gently accompan ies th e g u e s t to l o o k o u t o nto t he sp l endid ter race, a un ique an d pr i vi l e ge d p oi nt o f view fro m w hich to admire th e lak e. A m a gi c t h at ex tends into t he ro o ms an d suites wh ich , en h a n ce d by t h e view, master fu l l y p l ay t h e c ard of classic an d m od e r n e l e ga nce, b u t al ways fu l l y envel opin g. 38

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Paolo Gerbaldo

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LAKE HOTEL | GARDONE RIVIERA

Wi t h ou t d e l ay, t he Fasano g uest t hen takes advantage of th e Ave d a Aq va Sp a: an envel o p e in w h ic h you c an breath e s e n s at i on s of wel l -b eing, feel ing al mo st out of time. Th e ideal pl a ce to ge nt l y resto re vig o r to t he b o dy an d spir it. An ot h e r s t ron g p o int o f t he Grand H o tel Fasan o is its wide g a s t ron om i c of fer, st ar t ing w it h t he rest aurants “L a M agn olia” an d “ I l Pe s c atore” ent rusted to Execut ive Ch ef Pasquale Toz z i to t h e n re a c h i t s p eak in t he g o ur met restaurant I l Fagian o. I n 40

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LAKE HOTEL | GARDONE RIVIERA

an e nvi ron m e nt charac ter ized by a so p histicated atmosph ere, th e m e n u of t h e Execu t ive C hef M au r izio Bufi is, in fac t, based o n a m od e r n l ine o f hig hl y su g g est ive cuisin e th at plays on th e f u ll e n h a ncement o f l o cal p ro du c t s an d M editer ran ean f lavor s. Th e wel l -b al anced dishes, in fac t, unveil a prec ise an d b a la n ce d ident it y, o ffer ing an al l -ro un d exper ien ce th at re m a i n s m e m orab l e ju st l ike t hat disp e n sed by th e Gran d H ote l Fa s a n o.

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GRAND HOTEL FASANO Gardone Riviera, Italia www.ghf.it Rooms & Suites 79 Villas 0 - Restaurants 4 Spa Aveda Aqva Spa Children yes Chain none Affiliation LHW Activities lake activities Score Environment Design & Art Service Cuisine Health Spa Rooms

86 93 83 80 92 80 82 90

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TRIP TO ITALY

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Italian spring. From Milan to Rome passing through Florence. From the fashion district to the cradle of the Renaissance to the Baroque of the capital. Fashion, art and cuisine all intersect in a splendidly intoxicating, deeply touching, wisely inspirational cocktail. RESORTS MAGAZINE

Spring in I talia

A spring itinerary visiting noble destinations, art and design hotels, palaces and apartments. Renovated buildings open to attentive, curious guests looking for character as well as originality. Tradition and innovation interact, offering solutions that are increasingly tuned to the new needs expressed by the world of hospitality.

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CITY HOTEL | MILAN

ME Milan Il Duca Milano

O n t h e l a rg e Piazza del l a R ep ub b l ica in M ilan , n ot far from th e Ce nt ra l St at io n, st ands t he t al l b uil din g th at h ouses th e M E M i la n I l D uca. Three co l o rs charac ter ize th e façade: th e gre e n of t h e gro und fl o o r, du e to t he plants in th e small g a rd e n n ex t to t he ent rance; t he gray of th e ston e in th e i nte r m e d i ate f lo o rs; t he red-mag ent a o f th e ston e th at cover s th e top f loor s. The l arg e w indows anno u n ce th e br ightn ess of th e room s a n d suites. Th e i nte r i or s are o f co ntemp o rar y design , ver y fresh an d we lcom i n g t h a nks o nce ag ain to t he use of ston e an d mar ble, wood, a n d f a b r ics o f var io u s shades from beige to brown . Th e room s a n d su ites are l arg e and tend to c reate a sen se of o p e n s p a ce, w it h rarefied sep arat io ns b et ween livin g room, be d room a n d b at hro o m. 50

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Ovidio Guaita

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CITY HOTEL | MILAN

Th e re a re t wo rest aurant s t hat charac ter ize th e gastron omic o f fe r of t h e s t ruc t ure to g et to k now. STK M ilan , wh ere th e na m e s t a n d s fo r steak ho use. I n addit io n to th e US DA ( Un ited St ate s D e p a r t ment o f Agr icul t ure) cer t ified fir st-rate steaks on th e m e n u - t h e mo st tender o n t he mar ke t - it also offer s lan d prod u c t s a n d f ish fro m su st ainab l e cro p s an d far ms. An d th en th e R oof top B a r, al so ver y p o p u l ar w it h th e M ilan ese for th e i n c re d i b l e vi e w o f t he cit y it o ffers. This is quite obvious both f rom t h e ex te r nal sp aces as wel l as fro m th e inter n al on es. Yo u s h ou ld t r y t he Sunday b runch w here var ious c lassic s are re i nte r p re te d wit h p l easant sur p r ises. 52

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INFO

ME MILAN IL DUCA Milano, Italia www.melia.com Rooms & Suites 168 Villas 0 - Restaurants 2 Spa no Children yes Chain Melia Hotels & Resorts Affiliation none Activities sightseeing Score Environment Design & Art Service Cuisine Health Spa Rooms

77 85 94 80 83 80 0 94

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NEW HOTEL | FLORENCE

25hours Hotel

Piazza San Paolino, Firenze

“H

eaven o r Hell?” Th is is n ot a co mmo n question to h ear at check-in. I n realit y, th e question is no t st ran ge. Th e exper ien ce o f st aying at th e 2 5 h our s Hotel Piazza S an Paolin o, in fac t, chang es ever y th in g drastically. I t i s n o coi n c i d ence t hat t heir sl o g an is “come as you are” fo rge t a l l for m al it ies to enter a new dime n sion . I f you h ave exp ec t at io ns, fo rg et t hem. Ever y th in g will be dif fe re nt. A b eau t iful co ur t yard (covered by glass win dows) wi t h a l a rg e f irep l ace o n w hich giant spider s c limb; a lobby th at i s a l s o a re st au rant and b ar ; a “gro ce r y store” with lots of ( fa k e ) cold c u t s hanging fro m t he ceil ing; a Cin ema Paradiso room ; t h e a l l - b l ue Co mp anio n Bar w it h contin uous red sofas. I n s h or t, a s e t o f quo tes fro m I t al ian culture an d tradition s ex p re s s e d wi t h great imaginat io n and, at times, in gen iously by t h e i nte r i or designer Pao l a Navo ne. 54

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Paolo Levi

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NEW HOTEL | FLORENCE

Th i s n e w h o tel is p ar t o f t he yo u ng G er man c h ain an d c u r re nt ly h a s 12 ho tel s in Eu ro p e. I t is now also expan din g into th e M i d d l e E a s t, o p ening a 25ho urs in D ubai. O th er proper ties are a l s o p l a n n ed fo r M el b o ur ne and Sydney.

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NEW HOTEL | FLORENCE

D i d we s ay “ Heaven o r H el l ” at check-in? D epen din g on our an s we r, we coul d find o u rsel ves in an al l wh ite an d celestial room or s i n k i nto t he damnat io n o f a da r k red environ ment wh e re we c a n exp er ience a t aste o f H e ll. A taste th at with th e p rom o cod e 25h_sweetdreams yo u can h ave with a 1 5 % dis cou nt on t he b est avail ab l e rate. The loc ation is central, a s ton e’s t h row fro m t he S ant a M ar ia N ovella station ( an d th e s q u a re of t he same name) and a 10-min ute walk from th e D u om o wi t h co nvenient u ndergro und par k in g. O ur Dante ex p e r i e n ce i s ver y wel l l o cal ized.

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INFO

25HOURS HOTEL PIAZZA SAN PAOLINO Firenze, Italia www.25hours-hotels.com Rooms & Suites 171 Villas 0 - Restaurants 2 Spa no Children yes Chain 25hours Hotels Affiliation none Activities sightseeing Score 80 Environment 85 Design & Art 82 Service 80 Cuisine 80 Health 78 Spa (wellness area) 68 Rooms 78

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CITY HOTEL | FLORENCE

Hotel degli Orafi Firenze

m a gi n e a p rest igio us residence a ston e’s th row from Ponte Vecchio and t he U ffizi t hat offer s th e advantages of a m o der n ho tel. This idea t ake s sh ape at th e Hotel d e gl i Orafi in Fl o rence, over l o ok in g th e Ar n o. I n a s e t t i n g w here t here is no l ack o f ambien ces of oth er t i m e s, t he H o tel is, in fac t, a reser ved an d discreet p la ce t hat o ffers g uest s t he o p por tun it y to stay in we l l - org a n i ze d and func t io nal enviro nments. Th e rooms an d su i te s a re c h a rac ter ized b o t h by t he visual emotion given by t h e e n c h a nt i n g g l imp se o f Po nte Vecchio an d by th eir careful c a re - i d e a l e nviro nment s, t herefo re, to en j oy a delightful st ay. I n t h e H o tel deg l i Orafi t he at mo sph ere is far from th e p re s e nt, b u t f ul l o f mo der n co mfo r t s. I n f a c t, t h e H o tel t ransl ates t he essen ce of Florentin e h os p i t a li t y i nto a mo der n and co mfo r table welcome. Th e se r vi ce s of fe re d are o f a g o o d st andard. A won der ful settin g i s a l s o gi ve n by t he b reakfast ro o m. The an cient n in eteenth -

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Paolo Gerbaldo

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CITY HOTEL | FLORENCE

ce nt u r y b a l l ro o m o f t he Fl o rent ine resid en ce still preser ves t h e or i gi n a l f resco es o f t he t ime and completely cover th e p re s t i gi ou s va u l ted ceil ing. Th e s t ay at t he H o tel deg l i Orafi in Fl oren ce is th erefore a st ay c a p a b l e o f evo k ing unusu al p l easures an d offer in g th e r ight i n gre d i e nt s to t ake a step b ack in time an d th us retur n to re d i s cove r t he ar t o f t ravel. 62

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HOTEL DEGLI ORAFI Firenze, Italia www. otel e lorafi.t Rooms & Suites 42 Villas 0 - Restaurants 0 Spa no Children yes

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DESIGN HOTEL | FLORENCE

Glance Hotel in Florence

ho tel dedicated to Fl o ren ce an d th e wor k s o f it s mo st famo u s a r tists. M ovin g from o ne ro o m to ano t her an d from on e floor to ano t her, o ne enco unter s th e details of M ichel ang el o’s David, Giambologn a’s R ape o f t he S ab ines, Amman n ati ’s N eptun e, an d Baccio Bandinel l i ’s Herc ules an d Cac us wh i c h a re t h u s rep ro du ced o n ent ire walls as th e leitmotif o f a n a r rat i ve t hat dial o g ues b et ween p ast an d present. Th e bu i l d i n g, wh i ch is l o cated a sho r t dist a n ce from th e S anta M a r i a N ove ll a s t at io n, is t he wo r k o f t he well-k n own arc h itec t I ta l o G a m b e r i n i w ho, in t he fif t ies o f t he last centur y, raised it o n t h e e ve r ve r y b usy Via Nazio nal e. 64

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Agnese Frullatori

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DESIGN HOTEL | FLORENCE

I t i s t h a n k s to t he ro b u st co nst ruc t io n in rein forced con crete th at i t wa s p ossib l e to o b t ain a l arg e, heated swimmin g pool o n t h e roof. I t is a rare and coveted sp ace in th e c it y center an d f rom wh i c h yo u can enjoy an enviab l e view of th e cit y an d i ts m on u m e nt s. Ver y p o p ul ar fo r co ckt ails at sun set, its bar o f fe r s a p r i vi l eg ed view o f t he Fl o rence sk y lin e. Th e f u r n i s h i ng s o f t he co mmo n areas an d rooms are m i n i m a li s t a n d wel l co o rdinated w it h care ful combin ation s of a fe w a n d we l l - c h o sen co l o rs. I t b o ast s excellent soun dproofin g an d a g ood b u ffet b reakfast.

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INFO

GLANCE HOTEL Firenze, Italia www. lan e otel oren e. o Restaurants 1 Spa no Children yes

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APARTMENT HOTEL | FLORENCE

Relais Piazza Signoria Firenze

here is a sub t l e p l easu re in wak in g up in th e mo r ning in o ne o f t he suites, studios an d ap ar t ment s o f t he R el ais Piaz z a S ign or ia. Th e minimalist design does not distrac t, helping the g u est to fo cus o n t he view of th e h omony mous square. And l o o k ing o ut over on e of th e most famo us and so ug ht-af ter squares in th e wor ld i s u n p a ra l l e le d. M any Fl o rent ine st ruc t u res defin e th emselves as ce nt ra l b u t ver y few are l o cated in t h e physic al center of th e c i t y, t h e ater o f t he t ho u sand-year h istor y of th e M edic i c a p i t a l. Th e d i m e n s i o ns o f t he ap ar t ment s var y an d so do th e views. O n t h e top f l oor we find t he Pent ho use with a pr ivate ter race, th e p r i d e of t h e R el ais. Fro m t here it seems possible to touch Pa la z zo Ve cc h io, and t here co u l d no t b e a more immer sive s olu t i on .

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Ovidio Guaita

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APARTMENT HOTEL | FLORENCE

Th e d i s c re e t and essent ial ser vice l eaves th e guest maximum pr i va c y a n d d iscret io n o n how to use t h e spaces. Break fast i n t h e room wit h t he k itchenet te r ig ht on h an d; or a full i m m e r s i on ex per ience, as a Fl o rent ine, goin g to an affiliated hi s tor i c c a fé, a few step s away b u t st il l in th e square, wh ere yo u c a n s i t wi t h t he l o cal s and o b ser ve cit y life. Th e R e la i s Piazza del l a Signo r ia offer s a un ique accom m od at i o n so l ut io n in Fl o rence. Lo t s of pr ivac y, flexibilit y an d a ve r y ce nt ral l o cat io n to meet t he n eeds of busin ess pe op l e b u t a lso famil ies w it h chil dren, groups of fr ien ds an d cou p le s l ook i n g fo r t ranquil it y. 70

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INFO

RELAIS PIAZZA SIGNORIA Firenze, Italia www.relaispiazzasignoria.com Restaurants 0 Spa no Children yes

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HISTORIC PALACE | FLORENCE

alazzo elfiore Firenze

t is surprising to find the environments in this ancient residence as they appeared several centuries ago. The frescoes, or rather the traces of them - given the age of the house and the continuous use that has been made of it - give its rooms an atmosphere of the past which is now difficult to find except in a museum - where, of course, it is impossible to stay.

The house is located in via de ‘Velluti, named after the noble family, one of the largest of those settled in Oltrarno, and which owned several houses here which, together with the “gardens” that flanked them, reached the nearby Church of Santo Spirito. These houses were often placed in communication with internal passages that guaranteed family members an escape route in case of riots or invasions. The Renaissance atmosphere is immediately perceived upon entering the Palace. On the first floor in the apartment called “Clarice” there is a room which preserves a near intact fourteenth-century decoration. This so-called “madornale” room is characterized by a painting with fake drapes woven with red and blue rhombus motifs. It has changed over time to become greenish, framed by bands in which realistic budgies in profile are depicted in green with red paws. This is only an example of what this precious palace contains. A stay experience therefore dedicated to art history. 72

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Lawrence Taylor

INFO

PALAZZO BELFIORE Firenze, Italia www.palazzobelfiore.net Restaurants 0 Spa no Children yes

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HISTORIC PALACE | FLORENCE

Palazzo del Moro Firenze

he discreet façade does not reveal much of the opulence and design that the guest finds inside his suites. These are studios cleverly separated into the living and sleeping areas. The furniture combines vintage pieces with contemporar y details.

The interiors of the suites, especially in the sleeping area, are covered with a dark fabric to promote sleep and per fectly match the parquet floor. The beds have a comfortable memor y foam mattress while on the sides we find two adjustable brass lamps that are per fect for reading. The bathrooms are a mix of preciousness, thanks to the black marble which covers the entire lower part and the play of light given by the mirrors that surround the spaces. Each suite has a kitchenette where guests can, with privacy and autonomy, customize their food and wine experiences during their city stay. In summary, Palazzo del Moro offers a stay experience characterized by elegance and privacy in a historical and central context. 74

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Lawrence Taylor

INFO

PALAZZO DEL MORO Firenze, Italia www.palazzodelmoro.it Restaurants 0 Spa no Children yes

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HISTORIC PALACE | FLORENCE

Palazzo San Niccolò Firenze

his palace has a lovely retro feel to it. Old yes, but also very tied to the twentieth century. Part of the furniture is, in fact, from the 1950s and tells of an era when the economic boom had launched Italian design. Apparently decentralized but still very central, Palazzo San Niccolò is located in the district of the same name, in the Florentine Oltrarno, the “left bank” of the city of the Medici, the one populated by artists and craftsmen - still today. But also the one near Piazzale Michelangelo, Forte di Belvedere and Piazza Poggi with its fountains. Its rooms, studios and apartments are therefore inspired by the fifties and sixties while maintaining all the comforts that the contemporary traveler expects. At the back, the property has a large and quiet private garden. Furthermore, the property has made a decisive green choice by reorganizing the services to reduce their environmental impact: guests, for example, are provided with glass bottles to obtain water (still or sparkling) from the special distributors. The lights in the room turn off automatically after the guest leaves and the staff travel by bike or electric car. 76

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Lawrence Taylor

INFO

PALAZZOSAN NICCOLO’ Firenze, Italia www.palazzosanniccolo.it Restaurants 0 Spa no Children yes

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PALACE HOTEL | ROME

Grand Hotel Palace Roma

o re t han six t y years h ave passed sin ce Fel l ini fil med “La dolce vita” an d yet to day Via Veneto in R ome still h as so met hing magical about it – as do th e ho tel s, su ch as t he Gran d Hotel Palace, t hat over l o o k it. Th ey could n ot be o u tdo ne.

B u i l t i n 1 9 2 7 by architec t M arcel l o Piacentin i, it is n ot L iber t y but n ot e ve n Ar t D eco. I t s st yl e co u l d rath er be defin ed as a R om a n m od er nism. I t s cur ved façade, th e duoton e due to t h e com b i n at io n o f w hite t raver t ine with och er ston e, th e p ron ou n ced references to Neo cl ass ic ism all make it a m on u m e nt a s wel l as a ho tel. Or iginal l y c alled Palaz zo degli Am b a s c i ator i , it was l ater divided into Gra n d Hotel Palace an d Am b a s c i ator i Pal ace. I n 2010 it was co m pletely ren ovated, al s o i nt rod u c i ng t he sp a. 78

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Ovidio Guaita

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PALACE HOTEL | ROME

Am on g t h e ar t ist s cal l ed to deco rate it, we fin d Guido Ca d or i n , wh o ent irel y fresco ed t he hal l of th e same n ame - n ow a b a r a nd rest au rant o f t he el eg ant h otel. Guest c an en j oy n i n e f a scinat ing scenes w it h cha rac ter s enter tain in g th e m s e l ve s i n evening at t ire. I t is in t his elegant room th at we f i n d a m e n u o f t he I t al ian t radit io n d eclin ed in lightn ess. Am on g t h e a p p et izers t he eg gp l ant Par migian a is an example. For t h e f i r s t course we find a p recio us Cream of Leek s, potatoes an d c h e s t n u t s o nl y to co nt inu e w it h R oasted O c topus with J e r u s a l e m Ar t i cho ke Cream and Sweet an d S our On ion Petals, con c lu d i n g wi th a t radit io nal Tiramisu. R e ce nt l y, t h e manag ement has p assed over to M illen n ium H ote ls a n d R e so r t s w hich has incl u ded it in th eir inter n ation al c i rc u i t, gi vi n g c redit to t he cl ass and el eg a n ce of th e proper t y. 80

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INFO

GRAND HOTEL PALACE Roma, Italia www.millenniumhotels.com Rooms & Suites 87 Villas 0 - Restaurants 2 Spa yes Children yes Chain Millennium Hotels Affiliation Preferred Hotels & Resorts Activities sightseeing Score Environment Design & Art Service Cuisine Health Spa Rooms

80 85 83 80 80 78 75 80

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CITY HOTEL | ROME

D.O.M. Roma

.O.M. (Deo Optimo Maximo) is a Latin inscription found on the church adjacent to the property. The seventeenth-century building was originally used as a monastery. It was later transformed and has recently become a luxury boutique hotel. Its 18 rooms and suites all overlook the historic Via Giulia, while the D.O.M. suite also boasts a private terrace of over 25 square meters with an exclusive view over the rooftops and bell towers of the famous Regola district of Rome. The interior colors range from tobacco to white; the furniture is interspersed with large mirrors. The headboards of the beds are impressive for their size, helping to recreate the warm and relaxing atmosphere of a historic noble residence. Each room and suite has been graced with original works by well-known photographers such as Slim Aarons, Kourtney Roy and Horst P. Horst. Among the common areas we find the splendid terrace - obviously with an excellent view of monumental Rome - and then the restaurant, whose menu is based on seasonal flavors and local ingredients. 82

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INFO

D.O.M. Roma, Italia www.domhotelroma.com Restaurants 1 Spa no Children yes

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CITY HOTEL | ROME

Palazzo Dama Roma

residence linked to the past of the Malaspina family and to a lady, the Marquise Anna Maria, who here received the Roman nobility of the 18th century. This is the magical atmosphere that surrounds guests as soon as they cross the threshold of Palazzo Dama, a structure completely renovated by architect Antonio Girardi. Located between the Lungotevere and the central Piazza del Popolo, this 5-star hotel offers its guests 29 rooms and suites, all tastefully furnished, soundproofed and equipped with every comfort, including technological ones, not least of which a large television with every type of satellite TV channel. The swimming pool is beautiful - there are very few hotels in the center of Rome that can boast one - surrounded by olive and lemon trees, much appreciated by guests in the warm months. The Palazzo also offers a fitness room and, soon, a modern new and spa that will be built during the year. Very famous and frequented even by the Romans, the Pacifico restaurant is a creation of chef Jaime Pesaque, where you can enjoy a Peruvian-Japanese fusion menu for both lunch and dinner that re-proposes the already remarkable success of the Milanese restaurant of the same name. Suggestive is the Pisco Bar, which welcomes guests both for the ritual of an aperitif and for a digestif after dinner. It is embellished with crystal chandeliers from the Hotel Plaza in New York, along with modern and contemporary paintings and a magnificent solid wood staircase, a reminder of a bygone but not forgotten era. An excellent welcome and a nice ambience make Palazzo Dama a classy Roman choice. 84

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Paolo Levi

INFO

PALAZZO DAMA Roma, Italia www.palazzodama.com Restaurants 1 Spa no Children yes

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ART HOTEL | ROME

The First Roma Arte Roma

ocated a few steps from Piazza del Popolo, Via del Corso and Via Condotti and just a ten-minute walk from Piazza di Spagna, this 5-star boutique hotel has 29 rooms of which 23 are suites divided into Junior, Art, First and Jacuzzi . Crossing the threshold of this hotel, you are enveloped by an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere. The contemporary art journey begins in the common areas and continues in rooms and suites, often enriched by collections of dedicated volumes. The furnishings of the suites are played on shades of beige contrasted by the classy blue sofas. Even in the bathrooms there is no lack of contrasts, some with very elegant dark marble. The technological equipment is respectable and able to satisfy the most demanding travelers. Should you feel the need for something extra, you can always turn to the very kind staff, always very helpful and professional. The hotel also offers a beautiful fitness room with toplevel machines. Do you have a moment of time? Not far away in Via del Corso, the same property has a second hotel, The First Roma Dolce. And if you are a pastry lover, this is the right address to discover new and very inviting creations. 86

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Paolo Levi

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ART HOTEL | ROME

Great dining is the highlight of the First Roma Arte. The property boasts two restaurants at the highest level: Acquolina is on the ground floor and offers Mediterranean seafood cuisine prepared by the skilled hands of the young chef Daniele Lippi who, with merit, obtained the star Michelin. This venue offers both an à la carte menu and a tasting itinerary with possible wine pairing. The second restaurant, the Acquaroof, is located on the top floor and has a suggestive terrace from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city. This is a favorite destination for breakfast with a view, for a gourmet lunch or just for sipping a romantic aperitif, perhaps at sunset. It will be an experience to remember and one that will invite you to return. Luxury and art, therefore, a winning combination.

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INFO HOTEL

THE FIRST ROMA ARTE Roma, Italia www.pavilionshotels.com Rooms & Suites 29 Villas 0 - Restaurants 2 Spa no Children yes Chain none Affiliation L.V.X., Virtuoso Activities sightseeing Score Environment Design Service Cuisine Health Spa Rooms

77 85 90 85 100 80 0 90

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CITY HOTEL | ROME

The First Roma Dolce Roma

n a nineteenth-century building on the very central Via del Corso, The First Dolce is certainly one of the tastiest addresses in the capital. Its 23 suites are all finely furnished and carefully soundproofed - not an inconsiderable detail for structures that stand on streets full of life such as those in the center.

Furniture and décor are decidedly contemporary, dominated by warm tones that create an enveloping and relaxing atmosphere. The building houses the Velo haute pâtisserie lounge. Here the creations of Pastry Chef Ciro Chiummo follow the autumn-winter and spring-summer seasons, just like veritable high fashion collections. Afternoon tea in perfect English style and refined pastries alone deserve a stop in this pâtisserie boutique in the capital. The First Dolce, like its sister property The First Arte, is a luxury boutique hotel which is cozy, refined and, thanks to its privileged location in the center of Rome, able to offer an excellent stay experience. 90

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Agnese Frullatori

INFO HOTEL

THE FIRST ROMA DOLCE Roma, Italia www.pavilionshotels.com Rooms & Suites 23 Villas 0 - Restaurants 1 Spa no Children yes Chain none Affiliation L.V.X., Select Activities sightseeing Score Environment Design Service Cuisine Health Spa Rooms

72 85 85 85 83 80 0 85

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CITY HOTEL | ROME

Hotel Locarno Roma

he property is a refined 5-star hotel, opened in 1925 by a Swiss family with the name of their city of origin. In September 1943 the Germans marched on Rome and occupied the city for nine months. The Locarno hotel suffered the same fate but never interrupted its service for even a single day.

After the liberation, the American soldiers lived in the hotel. Later there was joyful occupation of the children of the neighborhood who, in the lounge by the fireplace, played with pinball machines and table football brought by the Americans. In the years of the Dolce Vita, the hotel was the reference point for an artistic movement known as the “Scuola di Piazza del Popolo” as well as for Fellini and his wife Giulietta Masina. In the seventies the property passed to Maria Teresa Celli who restored it to its original 20s style. Subsequently, the adjacent building, dating back to 1905, was acquired and joined to the main one, giving shape to the present hotel. Today the rooms and suites are a blend of period and stylish furnishings. Imposing curtains and ethereal tapestries alternate with stylish bathrooms with large tubs and precious marble. Chef Domenico Smargiassi’s cuisine follows a “dining anytime-anywhere” formula, leaving the guest ample freedom to choose where and when to try his Italian cuisine with oriental influences. It is no coincidence that Hotel Locarno has been defined “The Grand dame of boutique hotels” by The Telegraph. 92

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Ovidio Guaita

INFO

HOLTEL LOCARNO Roma, Italia www.hotellocarno.com Restaurants 1 Spa no Children yes

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CITY RESORT | ROME

Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá Roma

mong the many five-star hotels in Rome, Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá is a special case. Housed in a historic building from the early twentieth century (although completely renovated in 2012), it has a large garden with swimming pool but, nevertheless, is centrally located - an ideal location for both the traveler interested in the beauties of the Eternal City and the businessman on a hasty business trip. A stone’s throw from the Vatican, St. Peter’s Square and the gardens of Villa Borghese, Villa Agrippina boasts one of the most soughtafter locations in Rome but at the same time offers an oasis of relaxation among the cobblestoned streets of the historic center. The décor of the rooms is all played out between the pink of the exteriors and the beige and brown tones of the lobby and other common areas. Rooms and suites are furnished in a contemporary style and characterized by large photographic reproductions of famous paintings housed in the museums of the capital. Some suites stand out for their very generous spaces. Some even boast terraces (such as the Vatican Suite), Jacuzzis (such as the one named after Emperor Nero), private gardens and even plunge pools. 94

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Ovidio Guaita

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CITY RESORT | ROME

The My Blend by Clarins Spa has beauty and anti-aging treatments on the menu but also offers true wellness experiences to restore the balance between mind, body and spirit. It is flanked by a well-equipped gym. To conclude the sojourn, the Ossimoro restaurant, known for the reinterpretation of the classics of Roman cuisine, offers a menu of territorial traditions proposed with lightness. In summary, a nice five-star hotel that is central with large outdoor spaces, good cuisine, a well-established brand spa and good service. 96

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INFO HOTEL

VILLA AGRIPPINA GRAN MELIA’ Roma, Italia www.melia.com Rooms & Suites 110 Villas 1 - Restaurants 2 Spa Clarins Spa Children yes Chain Meliá Hotel & Resorts Affiliation none Activities excursions Score Environment Design Service Cuisine Health Spa Rooms

80 80 80 75 80 80 80 79

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LISBOA

A stop in Lisbon is always rewarding. A city one believes to know but which always reserves some surprises. text Lawrence Taylor photos Ovidio Guaita and published hotels

The scent of the pasteis de nata accompanies us while in the morning we venture through the streets of the city. From Bairro Alto we descend without haste towards the sea, pausing in front of the shop windows but also at the n ero r e we en o nter alon t e wa . t n e to et lo t an fin yourself among narrow streets, downhill trams and long tree-lined avenues. A stop in Lisbon is always rewarding. A city that one believes to know but which always reserves some surprises. The eighteenth-century architecture, that which was erected after the earthquake of 1755, neoclassical, almost Napoleonic b t e wo l arr e fi t ear later w at ara ter ze t e ort ee capital. Halfway between Barcelona and Paris, Lisbon is unique. With its history, its extremely different neighborhoods, its cuisine, traditional but still international. Well, it was the capital of an empire.

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The Lumiares Lisboa

he Lumiares is a cel eb ration of ever y th in g t h at makes Lisb o n u nique. From a for mer X VIII cent ur y p al ace to a st yl ish, ch arac ter ful space in t h e hear t o f t he Bair ro Al to area. Th e h otel pays ho mag e to Lisb o n’s g o l den light an d boh emian char m. A unique and indig e n ous exper ien ce for al l w ho visit.

Th e d e s i gn wa s insp ired by t he l ig ht an d patter n s of th e s t u n n i n g B a i r ro Al to area. I t cap t u res th e per son alit y of Li s b on - f rom t he scul p t ural b rass chandelier above th e Gran d St a i rc a s e, to t h e b esp o ke co l l ec t io n o f o r igin al ar t wor k s. Ever y el e m e nt h a s b e en t ho ug ht ful l y so urced and c raf ted from loc al ar t i s a n s. St yl i s h l y l aidb ack , aut hent ical l y L isbon .

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At t h e Lu m i R o o f to p Bar and R est au ra nt on th e 5 th floor, g u e s t s c a n e n joy a menu w it h a view. Ch ef Joao S ilva offer s n ot j u s t h i g h qual it y, l o cal l y so u rced, s eason al food, with a fo c u s u p on f re sh aut hent ic ingredient s, but also a spec tac ular v i e w ove r l ook ing Lisb o n’s sk yl ine and t he Tagus R iver. Th e Lu m i n a re s is a memb er o f Smal l Luxur y Hotels of th e Wor ld. 106

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INFO HOTEL

THE LUMIARES Lisboa, Portugal www.thelumiares.com Rooms & Suites 47 Villas 0 - Restaurants 2 Spa yes Children yes Chain Bomporto Hotels Affiliation SLH Activities excursions Score Environment Design Service Cuisine Health Spa Rooms

80 63 83 80 87 80 81 87

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The Vintage Lisboa

n t h i s histo r ic ho tel each el ement was c reated in collaboration with local ar tists, ar tisans and companies. Cl e a n , cu r ved, mo der nist l ines an d carefully ch osen Por t u gu ese design el ement s ap pear th rough out th e h ote l. The b esp o ke fu r nit ure from th e 1 9 5 0 s an d 1 9 6 0 s s howcases t he l u xu r y and glamorous lifest y le of t h e m i d-l ast cent u r y. R el axing color palettes proj ec t el e ga n ce a n d cheer fu l ness into t he ho tel inter ior s. I n t h e room , the g u est is invited to t ake advantage of th e v i nt a g e b a r t ro l l ey, w it h t he free gin & to nic k it c reated by th e Por t u gu e s e coc kt ail exp er t, N ino Lo p es. N oth in g better th an a d r i n k to t a k e to t he ro o f to p to enjoy t h e view of th e L isbon sk yli n e. Eve r y det ail o f t he st ay exp er ience h as been carefully co n s i d e re d. From grap hic wo r ks created by loc al ar tists such a s J oã o R e i , to p encil s p rovided by famil y- own ed Por tuguese

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p rod u ce r s Vi a rco. The Vint ag e Por t u g u e s e l i ving exp er ience.

o ffer s

auth entically

S p e a k i n g of V R o o f to p Bar, in t he evening it tran sfor ms into a t re n d y p l a ce to g o fo r a dr ink o r l ig ht dish es. We tr ied th e R oa s te d O c top u s (w it h sweet p o t ato an d padrón pepper s) . D e li c i ou s a n d ver y tender. 110

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INFO HOTEL

THE VINTAGE Lisboa, Portugal www.thevintagelisbon.com Rooms & Suites 50 Villas 0 - Restaurants 2 Spa yes Children yes Chain Bomporto Hotels Affiliation none Activities excursions Score Environment Design Service Cuisine Health Spa Rooms

78 73 80 78 80 78 79 80

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AÇORES

Between space travel, new technologies, nagging communications, it is easy to forget the natural environment that mother nature has endowed us with. The Azores offer us the opportunity to enjoy an exciting and refreshing leap back into the natural environment to which we all belong. text Lawrence Taylor photos Ovidio Guaita and published hotels

travels 4 travelers

AÇORES

Ilha de São Miguel

The Autonomous Region of the Azores is an archipelago with a concentration of more or less active craters, which over the millennia have determined the birth of the archipelago. It is mostly from above that they can be seen, but also from the ground, every time you encounter a large valley, you wonder if it is not a crater. The distance from the mainland has decreed its isolation which, despite be n a olon n e t e fi teent ent r a allowe t e pop lat on to maintain their traditions and peculiarities to the present day. This is why the visit often reserves pleasant surprises – not only natural and architectural, but also culinary. e be t wa to fin o t w at t e ar pela o a to o er to rel on a al fie to r operator. e o e o e ent ra one o t e lar e t an be t e ppe . t t e r o ern ean an al fie e an n o experience is possible. www.picosdeaventura.com

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Azor Hotel

Ponta Delgada, São Miguel

If you decide to take a trip to the Azores, you will undoubtedly visit Ponta Delgada on the largest of the islands in the archipelago, São Miguel Island. Certainly, one of the best places to stay is the Azor otel w

a fil ate w t

n otel .

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AÇORES

t is located on the coast and is elegantly constructed with floor to ceiling windows that afford breath-taking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The rooms at the Azor are equipped with every modern convenience and necessary amenities to ensure guests a comfortable stay.

The Eco Luxury Spa offers a series of treatments and rituals with 100% organic products. It has a swimming pool, sauna, Turkish bath and aromatherapy showers. Next door is the gym. On the 17° floor next to the swimming pool, guests can enjoy a special treat in a venue known as the Whale Watching bar. Here they serve cocktails and delightful snacks to be enjoyed while observing the breath-taking view waiting to get a glimpse of an awesome whale roaming around in the vast waters of the ocean. The bar is very popular at sunset and after dinner. Regarding dinner, you cannot miss a visit to the A TERRA Azor restaurant on the first floor, where the ingredients come directly from the island’s farms and from the fishermen who moor in the port. The menu is a tribute to the traditional cuisine of the archipelago only revisited - with respect - by the chef. In addition to fish, the meat (wherever animals are raised in freedom) and cheeses are especially worth trying. The Azor of Ponta Delgada is the optimal choice for view, environment, design, well-being and gastronomy for those who want a top experience in the city, near the port and airport. Furthermore, the island has many other facilities that can satisfy different tastes and needs.

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INFO HOTEL

AZOR HOTEL Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Açores www.azorhotel.com Rooms & Suites 125 Villas 0 - Restaurants 1 Spa yes Children yes Chain none Affiliation none Activities excursions Score Environment Design Service Cuisine Health Spa Rooms

80 78 80 80 83 80 80 83

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Terra Nostra Garden Hotel Furnas, São Miguel

Since 1935, this charming Art Deco hotel has determined the history of hospitality on the island of São Miguel. Arising in a period of thriving economy, flanked by a casino, it soon saw a period of decline during World War II.

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AÇORES

ts elegance was oversized for the islanders’ expectations and also for the few visitors who came here. But with the seventies of the last century began the rediscovery of the Azores which entered the international circuit of travelers in search of unique experiences. Today the hotel consists of two wings, the Deco Wing - the original one - and the Garden Wing, added in 1990, maintaining the style.

However, the real surprise that this hotel reserved for us is the TN Restaurant. Formal, extremely elegant in architecture and equipment, with excellent service that would not even be expected in Lisbon. We are received by the maitre d ‘who materializes as soon as we approach the entrance. His cream-colored jacket, tie and dark trousers refer to an elegance and formality that is increasingly rare but always very welcome and appreciated. The explanation of the menu made by the waiters (as elegant, formal and professional as the maitre d ‘) is exhaustive without being boring. We choose a dish of great local tradition: the Furnaz Cozido, the stew cooked in the nearby fumaroles. Then comes the ritual that accompanies the various stages of lunch and we cannot find a single discordant note. A concert of gestures and attention so well studied and scenographic that we remain speechless. We could make a manual of this perfect service to give to many starred restaurants that save on staff with the excuse of informality. It goes without saying that the experience is worth the trip.

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TERRA NOSTRA GARDEN HOTEL Furnas, São Miguel, Açores www.bensaudehotels.com Restaurants 1 Spa yes Children yes

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PARIS

Wandering around Paris, losing one’s self among narrow streets, boulevards, cafes and museums. The Ville Lumiere has never been so sparkling.

No matter where you go or what you decide to visit, on the umpteenth visit Paris continues to fascinate. The history, the artists, the relaxed atmosphere - not too Nordic despite the lat t e a e app n e er ea on o l e an o t e ear . On these pages we present two relatively recent hotels housed in historic buildings, placed in different but decidedly interesting contexts.

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M Social Paris Opera Boulevard Haussmann

here is a subtle pleasure in walking the avenues designed by the prefect and urban planner Haussman. The inventor of the boulevards who, in the second half of the nineteenth century, redesigned Paris by organizing the city center around these great monumental streets. Paris at the time was the only European capital to have electric lighting along its streets (thus referred to as the Ville Lumière). On these boulevards, starting from the end of the nineteenth century, the major architects of the time built impressive edifices. One of these buildings houses the M Social Hotel Paris. It is located on the corner of Boulevard Haussman and Rue Laffitte, opposite the historic newspaper Le Figaro and a stone’s throw from the Opera and Galeries LaFayette. Built in 1927 in a late neoclassical style and now married to Art Deco, its imposing façade is one of the most admired on the avenue.

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The Deco style can be found in the lobby and in the new suites, in particular in the fantastic La Sweetie, all played on shades of green alternating with gold. The views over the Boulevard allow you to observe the comings and goings of Parisian life without leaving the comfort of your own suite. The Hypnos sprung beds are handmade and guarantee a healthy rest, while the amenities are products of L’Occitane. On the ground floor, opening onto the boulevard, we find the Brasserie Haussman, a traditional Parisian restaurant. However guests can also opt for an intimate dinner at Restaurant La Biblioteque, decorated like a private mansion. The M Social Hotel Paris is ultimately an oasis of peace and comfort just a stone’s throw from effervescent Parisian life. Secluded and elegant, discreet but enveloping. An address to consider for your next stay in the Ville Lumière. 132

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M SOCIAL HOTEL PARIS OPERA Paris, France www.millenniumhotels.com Rooms & Suites 163 Villas 0 - Restaurants 2 Spa no Children yes Chain Millennium Hotels Affiliation none Activities sightseeing Score Environment Design Service Cuisine Health Spa Rooms

75 93 87 80 77 80 0 88

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Maison Albar Hotels Le Vendome

ehind the astonishing façade designed in the 1880s by the star architect of Claude David existed an inspired world defined by luxury and splendor: The Lyon d’Or. It was hotel, restaurant and cabaret targeting the refined and trendy élite of the time.

Today the Maison Albar Hotels Le Vendome revives the spirit of the place by combining intimacy, luxury and amazement. The feline silhouette of the golden lion discreetly invites guests into the hotel and its interior garden. Located in the fascinating 9th arrondissement in rue du Helder right next to the Opéra Garnier and a few steps from the Place Vendôme, this Parisian jewel hides a place animated by the souls and events that have shaped its history. Its 51 rooms, its bar unveiling the garden, its beautiful relaxation area with its luxurious spa, its indoor swimming pool and its fitness center are all tributes to the splendor of the historical town houses. Nestled in the heart of Paris, Le Vendome is a confidential address both magnificent and rare. 136

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The Vendome by Carita Spa relies on the 70 years of experience of the well-known Parisian brand to pamper its guests with a series of treatments ranging from those aimed at moisturizing the skin to rejuvenation and can be used for both face and body. The atmosphere, the professionalism of the therapists and the quality of the products used suggest their experience. 138

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The gastronomic experience revolves around the Yakuza by Olivier restaurant. Portuguese chef Olivier Da Costa is known for his Japanese creations with Mediterranean flavors. A highly creative cuisine that surprises the eye as well as the palate. The atmosphere is the lively one of the brasserie with the open kitchen. Some of the dishes on the menu can also be ordered via room service and guests can thus savor the creations of chef Olivier in the privacy of their own suite. It’s true, Maison Albar Hotels Le Vendome is a haven of luxury, with the feeling of “just like home”. 140

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INFO HOTEL

MAISON ALBAR HOTELS LE VENDOME Paris, France maison-albar-hotels-le-vendome.com Rooms & Suites 51 Villas 0 - Restaurants 1 Spa Carita Children yes Chain Maison Albar Hotels Affiliation none Activities sightseeing Score Environment Design Service Cuisine Health Spa Rooms

83 80 83 80 95 80 81 85

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tyle

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The First Roma Musica A n e w contemp o rar y five -st ar exp e r ien ce will sh or tly we lcom e vi s i to rs to R o me. Op ening Q2, 202 2 , Th e Fir st M usica wi l l b e loc ate d al o ng t he b anks o f t he Tib e r R iver in th e elegant an d p os h Prat i neig hb o r ho o d, a 10-min walk from Th e S pan ish Ste p s wi t h i t s el eg ant sho p s. St. Peter ’s Basilica at th e Vatican wi l l a l s o b e j u st a sho r t wal k away. Th e a rc h i te c t ural design team w hich over saw Th e Fir st Ar te an d Th e Fi r s t D o l ce is carefu l l y renovat in g an d re -imagin in g th i s com m a n d i ng b uil ding as wel l, infusin g it with an in spir in g an d m od e r n d esign p hil o so p hy. Foc u s e d on wel l ness, t he ho tel w il l feature a relaxin g spa wi t h i n d oor s wimming p o o l and 24 st yl ish an d contemporar y s u i te s a n d g u e st ro o ms - mo st o f w hich with in credible floor to ce i li n g wi n d ows - o ffer ing p ano ramic views over th e cit y. A vi b ra nt roof to p dining sp ace w il l o ffer an exquisite I talian c u li n a r y m e n u. w w w. p avi li on sho tel s. co m

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Col d’Orcia ontal no hospitality re er at on re re

98/100

winery visit wine and oil tasting

Top Oli Toscani

light and full lunch

Col d’Orcia Biologico Frantoio, Leccino, Moraiolo, Olivastra 2021 $$$

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www.coldorcia.it

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Th i s M ont al cino est ate is an avant- garde estate, wh ic h began t h e p roce ss o f o rg anic cer t ificat io n in 2 0 1 0 an d today is th e l a rg e s t org anic w iner y in al l o f Tuscany. Togeth er with excellent re d s ( B r u n el l o di M o nt al cino and R osso di M ontalcin o) we f i n d exce l l ent o l ive o il, al so o bvio u sly organ ic. Th e company i s op e n to visit s by ap p o int ment an d proposes win e an d oil t a s t i n gs. L ig ht o r ful l l u nches are available as well. I n summer, you c a n a lso b o o k b ar b ecu es w it h t he lan dlord, Count Cin z an o. 150

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Tenuta San Jacopo a t l on ell hospitality re er at on re re

96/100

apartments winery visit

Top Oli Toscani

wine and oil tasting

Castiglioncelli Biologico IGP Frantoio, Leccino, Moraiolo 2021 $$$

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www.tenutasanjacopo.it

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