One trip turned into several and I eventually took on a vacation rental in town, blocks from the beach. During my four-month rental in this quirky sea-side town, a storm knocked off my roof, causing me to once again seek out and stay in nearby hotels.

Between that and talking with the locals and friend’s who visited, I can safely answer the number one question I’m asked about my time in Carmel: what is the best place to stay?

Although I can’t give a hands down favourite there are several that I’d recommend whether you’re coming on your own, for a romantic weekend or bringing Fido so he can finally roam leash-free on a beach.

The Cypress Hotel: This hotel is famous; it’s hard to read any article on Carmel and not read about this one. But I think it’s lazy journalism and the fact that it is a very dog-friendly hotel half-owned by Doris Day. The service (from check-in to the cafe to room care) is lacking. Amenities and rooms are standard and rather simple for what is tooted as a luxury hotel and Carmel’s finest. It is a nice property, especially if you have pets and the location is hard to beat (one block off the main street and a quick, easy walk to the beach) but if you’re used to true 4 or 5 star luxury, you could be disappointed.

When the roof was off my flat I stayed here in several different room types. The worst is any right off the lobby or stairs – you’ll hear the people in the cafe’s and walking all night long. The one bedroom suites are the best if you have a larger pooch as the standard rooms are pretty small. My favourite was the one facing Lincoln street; it had a fireplace, updated washroom, sitting room and faced a courtyard on one end. It’s great if you have dogs because you can just open your door and you’re on the street. The downside to the rooms facing the street is that they’re overpriced and loud – you’ll hear your neighbour, you’ll hear street traffic, you’ll hear the maids hoovering at 6AM. But the beds/linens are lovely and it’s a nice place to sit for coffee in the evening. But it’s always crowded which, if you want privacy, might not be for you. And if you don’t like dogs, do not stay here.

L’auberge Carmel: Opened in 1929, this hotel has recently been redefined with old school elegance and charm with new school pricing. The location is hard to beat – it’s right in town, blocks from the beach and a block from the main drag, Ocean Avenue. With only 20 rooms, it’s very private and intimate with luxury details you’d expect to find in every room. It can sometimes feel a little too “done” and you’ll see a lot of suits from San Francisco here but there’s no denying that it is beautiful, architecturally stunning and cosy.

La Playa Hotel: I haven’t stayed here but I would walk past it almost every day on my way to the beach. It looks like one of those old grand beach hotels and from walking the halls on the inside, seems to live up to it’s old world sophisticated appearance. It’s only a few short blocks from the beach and from any ocean view room you’ll certainly be able to hear the waves crashing upon shore. The cottages – which are set just off from the main hotel, look amazing, private and very Carmel. I’ve had several friends stay here who say they can’t wait to return.

Post Ranch Inn: If you have money, stay here. It is undeniably one of the best hotels not just in the area, but ever. The details, the linens, the privacy, the luxury – it’s all here and understated which is something I love. It brings nature inside in a delicate, beautiful way that really makes you feel peaceful. The views are just some of the most amazing I’ve ever seen, especially from the infinity pool. This place spells romance with in-room massage to Prix Fixe dinners that allow to organically dine for hours. The hotel has even won several green lodging awards. The only downside if you can call it one, is that it is not in Carmel or in walking distance. But if you need a getaway, this is where to go. Drive into crowded Carmel instead!

Bernardus Lodge: Located in Carmel Valley, this luxury hotel spells romance and quiet. Featherbeds, tubs for two, roaring fireplaces and a winery to boot, this place is worth the drive (it’s about 10 minutes to downtown Carmel). There’s also a spa which I haven’t been to but the menu looks amazing and eating here does too (the restaurant is always highly rated). Dogs are not allowed.

Tree Bones Resort: What it lacks in luxury (no TV, phones, or private restroom) it makes up in views and simple pleasures (heated ocean-view pool, access to coast line, privacy and quiet). The rates are steep for something basic but this is Big Sur and nothing is ever really cheap. This is more luxury wilderness sleeping but it’s lovely.

Carmel River Inn: Just off Highway one and not in walking distance to town, this is a great value property if you stay in the recently renovated Cottages (and I highly recommend a renovated cottage as they look really dated and lack amenities if they’re not done). I really loved the one I stayed in with its fireplace, fluffy, comfy bed, two-person tub and a private garden. Actually, my dog Jack loved the garden the most. You’ll be nestled amongst trees and birds so you’ll have quiet and privacy and be reasonably close to downtown Carmel. The best parts? You don’t pay the usual area rates! H

When I arrived at the hotel and was dealing with valet, a man bumped into me as he hurried by but stopped to pardon himself. It was Tom Hanks. I realized at that moment that this hotel was going to be something special.

Sitting right on the beach in Santa Monica, Hotel Casa Del Mar screams Old Hollywood but in that chic, polished, attention-to-detail way (we don’t stay in old musty places, dear, trust us). With dark woods and rich colours, the entrance alone is nothing short of spectacular. Then, there are the rooms.

Light, sunny, and oh so breezy; windows with sheers that sway from the ocean wind, glass walls enclose the deep jet tubs so you can view the ocean while you relax and light yellow fabulously deluxe linens make everything feel fresh and cosy. The stereo system and DVD player are nice touches – especially if you have an ipod to plug in and like to boogey a little before drinks in the lounge or if you need to just strike a pose on the chaise a la Marlene Dietrich.

There’s no way you could not feel just a little glamorous and Hollywood when laying out on the pool terrace which overlooks the ocean. Even if you’re not swimming you can sunbathe and have poolside drinks (after all, you’ll need something refreshing when you’re out in the sun). We love the poolside massages and the fact you can get a beautifying facial in the morning so that you’re pretty enough to listen to classic jazz in the lounge come evening. And trust us, you’ll want to look your best when drinking wine downstairs, after all, you never know who you’ll run into. It’s not just old Hollywood that comes here anymore.

TIP: Splurge on the Ocean View room; there’s nothing like it. If staying here isn’t an option at least come for drinks and appy’s in the lounge – especially on Wednesday when amazing jazz is playing and the lounge is packed with people and conversation.

Hotel Casa Del Mar Web site
1910 Ocean Way Santa Monica, CA 90405
Phone: 800-898-6999 or 310-581-5533

LA is a city known for style, color and quirkiness so why would someone visit and stay at a dull old Best Western with 30 year old bed covers? Especially when staying in style was never so affordable – or so good.

The Farmers Daughter Hotel has been in the center of Los Angeles for over 30 years – with neighbours such as The Grove, CBS, farmers market, Melrose Ave, Beverly Hills and Hollywood). With LA’s traffic, being near everything is good but usually pricey – especially when you start talking duvets, Internet, mini-refrigerators, custom mattresses and beautiful though eclectic decor. But this family-run hotel keeps prices more than reasonable (starting at just $129), so you can afford to spend money in the city (which you will, trust us).

Though country charm can be a scary phrase, The Farmers Daughter combines this with hip decor that makes it modern in that cool retro way, helping you to feel more LA than Kansas.

Large rooms will keep you happy but if you need more space the beautiful outdoor patio is the place to sip cocktails or even take a dip in the pool. After walking around their busy neighbourhood in the heat, you’ll be glad for that and their air conditioning.

The Farmers Daughter Hotel
115 South Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles California
800.334.1658

Deciding to escape the drab Seattle winter with a quick trip to San Francisco was easy. Finding a hotel proved a little more difficult.

Our criteria for the hotel were specific – low cost, great location, comfortable yet stylish with a cosy lounge area for meeting friends. And did I mention cost? With hotels averaging $250 a night, I wasn’t sure I’d be able to get everything I wanted for an affordable price.

Then I found Hotel Triton.

Their colourful, yet easy to navigate website caught my attention as did their sass, which let me know this wouldn’t be the usual stuffy business hotel but instead a unique experience.

With a couple of clicks, I reserved a room from the hotel’s online ‘Specials and Packages’ page for $115 U.S. per night. Within seconds, I received a confirmation email with all the reservation details, and three weeks later, we were checking in.

Our goal this trip was to get away from the regular. We wanted to see colour, style and feel a little hip. Pulling up to the Hotel Triton and seeing their huge sun sign on the outside of the building and bright colours inside, we knew we were staying at the right place.

With an attentive staff, check-in was extremely easy, as was discovering what to do in the area. While the bellman took our bags to our room, he dished the city’s secrets, including where to eat, hang out, and grab a coffee. We knew the hotspots after only a few minutes in town.

Entering our room on the seventh (also the top) floor , the first thing I noticed was its small size. Cosy for the two of us on a three-day stay, but for anything longer, the room could feel cramped. However, the playful art, funky lampshades and bright decor made up for any lack of space. Despite the size, this was definitely not your regular hotel room.

What also set this room apart was its distinction as an “Eco Room” – one of only twenty-four in the hotel. The Eco-Floor has purified water, air filtration systems, biodegradable amenities, and natural linens on the beds. In this room, you can save $3 and skip the Evian from the mini-bar, because the water from the tap tastes just as pure. And despite the room size – housing just a bed, armoire and desk – thanks to the air filtration system, the room always felt fresh.

After unpacking, we left the hotel in search of food but didn’t have to search very far. Cafes, restaurants and fast food places were all within walking distance, and the hotel even boasts its very own French caf? – perfect for that afternoon latte.

Following supper, we met up with a friend in the hotel lobby. Since I knew we would be meeting a friend during our stay, having a lobby that offered an intimate place to chat and lounge was vital. Hotel Triton’s lobby did not disappoint. Filled with bright colours, bold artwork, and great jazz music playing through speakers, this lobby all but invited me to sit around all night and sip wine. With a complimentary evening reception and lots of over sized seating, I was able to.

On a Saturday night the place packed up quickly, yet we were still able to hold conversations with our friend without yelling. In fact, the ambiance and buzz created that evening led us to strike up several conversations with other travelers. I forgot I was in a hotel lobby and felt instead as if I were in some swank club in New York City.

After drinks, we headed out to explore San Francisco by night. Located in the popular neighborhood of Union Square (with the famed Chinatown gates are just a block away), Hotel Triton makes it easy to get out on the town to enjoy late night shopping, caf? sitting or a club or two. On vacation, who wants to be in bed by 9p.m.? Not us, and we took advantage of the hotel’s location and headed out for a few hours of fun.

Returning to the hotel, I took a late-night dip in the bath (mandatory rubber duck included) and unwound from a busy day. The fragrant bubbles, soaps and lotions soothed my tired soul, as did slipping into one of the complimentary plush robes afterwards.

Popping a compact disc into the room’s CD player, the room took on a relaxing feel. The soundproof windows kept outside noise at bay and the red walls, coloured glass lights and oversized duvet turned the room into a cosy, sleep-inducing haven.

The Hotel Triton provided the perfect backdrop for our trip and met all our needs. I left feeling refreshed, relaxed and even a little hip. In fact, when I returned home, I noticed I sashayed down the sidewalk just a little more than usual, as if the spirit I’d captured at the Hotel Triton was still with me.

Hotel Triton Web site
42 Grant Ave. San Francisco, CA 94108
reservations: 800.800.1299
hotel direct: 415.394.0500

The thing about city life is that you’re always in the center of it all. The bad thing is that you’re always in the center of it all. Where can a girl stay to get well rested and keep busy? In Vancouver, the choice is easy – a stay at the Westin Grand Vancouver Hotel.

Any room in this all-suite hotel will make you feel like you’re a hip local living with the best location but if you choose one of their GrandView Suites (located on the top two floors) you’ll also feel like the poshest local. That might be reason enough to spend a little on upgrading but the extra’s included with higher living should be tempt even the most upgrade-resistant person. With complimentary wireless (excellent for a girl who needs to surf the best places to go during her complimentary breakfast), free local calls, the best city and mountain views, spacious living areas (with sofa-bed for extra gal pals to crash on), and private access floors (perfect for a girl who’s concerned about safety), these suites feel like Park Avenue flats but with the warmth of Vancouver Hospitality.

Staying on the top floor (31st) will leave you feeling like you’re on top of the world and the elegant, cosy rooms will make you want to stay there. With their warm, yellow gold curtains that cover the floor to ceiling windows, mustard coloured walls, soft wood furnishings, the rooms make you want to do more then visit Vancouver – they make you want to live here. Let’s not forget to mention the great stereo system that will have you shakin’ your thing as you get ready to hit that club two blocks away or, if playing some classical, will help you unwind as you make tea in the mini-kitchen and feel oh so divine.

The layout is simply perfect with well-appointed furniture that doesn’t overcrowd. From a great little entrance way to the fully stocked mini-kitchen, living room perfect for entertaining or catching up on some TV, work area with a view of the city, balcony over looking the mountains, huge granite soaker bathtub with separate shower (and marble tops) too, and, oh yes, the famous Westin Heavenly Bed. And trust us girls, it is heaven. Whether you need to lounge away the day in your robe or you need to crash after hitting the scene, you’ll never want to leave the layers of fluff.

And if you think summer is the only good time to visit Vancouver, you might want to rethink that with this hotel. I stayed in February during a particularly rainy, windy time and loved it. Why? With the rain hitting the windows all day long there was nothing left for me to do but sip coffee and eat cake whilst relaxing on the sofa, watching the latest movies after having the biggest bubble bath ever. Talk about relaxation! How many city trips can you say that about? Exactly, which is why I ended up extending my trip by two days – just so I could stay here, feel at home and rest. Which is why I plan to return to Vancouver and the Westin Grand often.

TIP: This hotel more than any other really gives you the sense of what it would be like to live in Vancouver. If you have a long stay, crave space or are travelling with a family, this hotel is a great choice and an upgrade to the Grandview Suite is really worth it.

Westin Grand Vancouver
433 Robson St., Vancouver, BC V6B 6L9 Canada
Tel: (604) 602-1999

The Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli will open for the season on April 13th. This 21-room fairytale Villa on the shores on the shores of Lake Garda offers a luxurious lakeside living experience replicating a stay at a private home. From croquet matches on the Villa’s ground to boating excursions on Italy’s largest lake to such small touches as complimentary laundry and mini bar, the Villa offers a rare Italian house party experience.

For those who want to enjoy the area, a number of options exist. One lakeside experience takes place on Villa Feltinelli’s own boat, “La Contessa,” reminiscent of a classic 1920s Riva boat. This 52-foot pleasure craft was commissioned in a local boat yard by the villa and is the largest privately owned boat on the lake. The hotel offers excursions on La Contessa through Lake Garda in the Gardone region. While cruising on Italy’s largest lake, guests can glimpse historic villas only seen from the water, ancient limonaia structures and beautiful rural scenery. La Contessa can frequently be seen shuttling guests to and from favorite lakeside restaurants. From September 9-11, guests can watch the “Centomiglia” the largest sailing race in Europe, from the shores of Lake Garda.

For the adventurous visitors, a scenic 3-mile hike leads from the edge of Lake Garda to the charming village of San Michele. Curious travellers will also love visiting Villa Vittoriale, once the private estate of Italian poet and military adventurer Gabriele D’Annunzio, now notable for its eccentric Italian Art Deco interior.

Few people can visit Italy without taking advantage of the country’s culture, namely a requisite visit to the opera or a tour of the region’s architectural treasures. About 45 minutes east of the villa by car, the city of Verona gives guests the opportunity to see the popular opera (from June 24, 2006 to August 27, 2006) and visit architectural landmarks like an ancient Roman theater and a restored Renaissance palazzo. A fascinating study in history, the city of Verona dates back to the time of the ancient Romans and is the setting for Shakespeare’s immortal romance, “Romeo and Juliet.” where one can still observe the balcony where the courtship took place.

To take sightseeing a step further, guests may employ the services of the villa’s personal guide, Chiara Garioni. A native of Gargnano, Garioni is extremely knowledgeable of the region’s history including the city of Salo, an area that once served as Mussolini’s puppet republic. She is available to guide guests to pre-historic sites, secret gardens, antique markets, cultural sites, historic city centers, and vineyards, among many other attractions.

Located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy miles away from the bustle of city life, Villa Feltrinelli remains comfortably secluded in what the writer D.H. Lawrence deemed “one of the most beautiful places on earth.” An 1892 neo-gothic mansion set on eight acres of lakefront property, the hotel opened in 2001 and is a product of Bob Burns, founder of Regent International Hotels and a dedicated devotee of elegant hotels.

Room rates range from 700 to 2800 Euros (April and October) and from 980 to 3100 Euros (May through September).

Villa Feltrinelli Website

With it’s South of France feel (from the colour scheme to it’s simple yet elegant decor), this hotel made me feel right at home, right away. Thanks in part to their large suits which are like mini flats – little kitchen, ample large (and gorgeous) bathrooms, lavishly luxurious bedrooms with walk in closets and living rooms with dining areas that are bigger than in any flat I’ve had.

Located right on Ocean Ave, some rooms have ocean views while some overlook the beautiful (and kept up) pool. With your own little balcony area for sitting and relaxing, it’s definitely a home away from home. In fact, after a few days of being here I almost forgot I was supposed to be out looking for my own home!

Though there’s no room service, exercise room or big hotel amenities, this 63 room four-star hotel has more than enough; proximity to dining, shopping, beaches and theatre, elegant yet comfortable suites with beds that you never want to get out of, internet connection and a pool for California Dreaming.

In fact, this little property has become one of my favourites.

Hotel Oceana Santa Monica
849 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, California 90403
(800) 777-0758 or (310) 393-0486

Checking in early at the hotel allowed time to experience their small (but perfectly adequate and luxurious) spa where I was able to receive the one-hour Lavender Body Bliss, which removed days of travel and months of worth of worry. My skin glowed, my limbs were relaxed and I felt completely pampered. I even purchased a few Epicuren products to take home.

Feeling like a queen I checked into a room fit for one; fluffy duvets, a jet tub, separate living room and bedroom, fireplace and amazingly large balcony. The colours were rich, subdued and oh so relaxing, making me feel as though I’d been relaxing for days instead of just hours.

Attention to detail is what you’ll notice in this hotel; everything is thought of and taken care of, especially the guests. This 89-room boutique hotel has been privately owned and operated by one woman, Eleni Skalbania, since 1984. Acting as designer, contractor and guest, she combined her personal experience of the intimate comfort, elegance and luxurious quality of hotels from her travels around the world with her own collection of antiques, art and decor from her home as well as commissioning craftsmen to build custom designed furniture to meet her specific needs. That is why the Wedgewood feels first class in a personal, intimate way and you instantly feel at home – weather you’re used to pampering or not.

From start to finish this is a hotel where you’ll be taken care of without breaking the budget or having to put on airs. And if that’s not enough, stay just for the turndown service which includes homemade cookies or the Belgian truffles that are offered upon check in. Trust me, these alone can make a travelin’ girl happy.

This is certainly one of Vancouver’s best-kept secrets and frequent guests like to keep it that way. After staying here for a weekend I understand – it’s an urban escape that has become one of my favourites.

I’m a huge fan of Kimpton Properties (such as Hotel Triton, Pacific Palisades and the Serrano) as their rooms are always perfectly cosy yet stylish and their services are brilliant without being gimmicky. Although I have yet to visit this property in Whistler, with the new Yoga program it gives me yet another reason to make that fall getaway.

The lobby plays coffee-shop cool jazz and bright yellows and apple greens with shots of red decorate the walls. This creates a fresh, hip look that simultaneously stimulates and relaxes. The Honeywood furnishings accented with chrome feel more South Beach than Vancouver – perfect for a traveller weary of Vancouver’s winter season.

The details don’t stop at the front door. Unlike many neighbouring hotels who think big only for big spenders, Pacific Palisades envisioned big rooms, and big views for everyone. It also paid big attention to complimentary features such as an evening wine reception, Starbucks Coffee in every room and high-speed internet access for late night surfing. This luxury hotel has the ambiance of a private residence.

One bedroom suites offer a large, heated balcony with stunning views of English Bay, a spacious separate bedroom, living room and kitchen areas. And the bathroom? Oversized double sinks, a spacious vanity, amenities from Bloom Essentials Spa, incredibly fluffy robes, a large tub, bright colours, playful art, a pull out mirror, and lots of oversized towels, make it a girl’s best friend.

Mimicking the lively hues and crisp, clean lines of the lobby’s wood furniture, the suites are anything but cookie cutter. Contemporary furnishing mixed with bright greens and oranges provide the perfect backdrop to a relaxing stay in or trippy night out. The funky, functional rooms and casual yet sophisticated vibe often attract Vancouver’s film and art industry.

With chic rooms, a sultry restaurant, and a heavenly spa there is no reason to leave the hotel. But, Vancouver’s famed Robson Street is at your door step and beautiful Stanley Park is minutes away if you get cabin fever. With everything at your fingertips, all that’s left to do is relax.

The Pacific Palisades Hotel welcomes guests with impeccable service, stylish guest rooms and a fun attitude. Whether your trip is for business or pleasure, this hotel will leave you feeling like the coolest cat on the block.