A Weekend in Washington

The Jefferson, Washington DC

It always felt somewhat sacrilegious that I had never been to Washington, DC; especially when considering the mere 4 hour driving proximity from my home and the fact that I was raised by a history nut! So now, at 25 years old, it’s easy to understand why I jumped so quickly at the opportunity to spend a weekend there in the newest addition to the Signature Collection, The Jefferson. Leaving late on a Friday night meant I would not arrive until after midnight, however, I was quickly revitalized upon pulling into the Jefferson’s round driveway on 16th street. A smiling attendant came out to help us with our bags and car in the swiftest professional manner before we were whisked into the beautiful marble lobby. Then, in continuance of their utmost courtesy and my own astonishment levels, the lovely receptionist, Jessica, somehow greeted me by name! After checking in at the front desk, I was very anxious to see the room yet could not help but pause at length to admire the striking aspects of the main hallway. The ones worth most mention happen to fittingly be gold framed documents signed and/or personally written by Thomas Jefferson himself. It was easy to see this hotel has a true sense of place. When I entered my room, 807, this feeling was only further confirmed.

What to do in Miami

As you may know, this week we're giving away a 3-night stay at Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach, Miami's only five diamond resort (see below for contest entry details). Although you could spend your entire time there lounging on the beach or in the hotel's award-winning spa... there's so much to do in the area, you'll need to get out at least once or twice! 

For starters, there's the legendary nightlife of Miami Beach, where actors, models, rock stars and other celebs come to play. For those new to the scene, here's a handy guide of how to get into Miami nightclubs. 

If you're looking for a slower pace, Miami's shopping is world-class, as are the area's golf courses.

Just south of Miami lies Biscayne National Park, a prime spot for snorkeling, diving, boating, fishing, and catching a glimpse of some of the incredible local wildlife. You can even take part in a guided canoe tour or a fishing seminar. The whole area is spectacular for sailing, whether you charter a private yacht or rent a small dinghy.

For those with an eye for art, fashion, and design, there's the Miami Design District-- check out the website for info on special events, such as the Gallery Walk that takes place the second Saturday every month. 

We're giving away a 3-night stay at Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach to one lucky Facebook fan this week! Join us on Facebook & click on the Sweepstakes tab to enter! 

Fashion at the Ritz-Carlton, Toronto

Not only is the Ritz-Carlton, Toronto the proud winner of the 2012 Five Diamond Award and located in one of Travel+Leisure's Hottest Destinations of 2012, it's also got great fashion sense. The brand-new hotel (opened only last year) recently hosted a pop-up fashion show inspired by the life and style of Grace Kelly. 

Looking for more fashion in Toronto? The Ritz-Carlton is just a few blocks from the Bata Shoe Museum (yes, a museum dedicated to the incredible history of shoes: it's even cooler than it sounds) as well as some of the city's best shopping areas, from the vibrant and bohemian Queen Street West to the high-end boutiques and galleries of Bloor-Yorkville.

The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto is part of the Signature collection, which means that when you book through FROSCH you get access to free room upgrades and other great amenities, including a $100 CDN food and beverage credit. Contact your FROSCH agent or use our Find a Travel Agent tool to book!

Pet-friendly hotel: The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

Photo: ritzcarlton.com

We love pet-friendly hotels! Among the best for our favorite felines and pampered pooches? The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel in Dana Point, California. They allow and encourage guests to bring their four-legged family, offering a bevy of pet amenities as part of their Posh Pooch program, such as a doggy menu, a hand-painted water dish, and a cozy plush pet bed. 

Their love for animals doesn't stop there: their Yappy Hour, a monthly "canine cocktail event," raises funds for compassionate causes such as the Pet Project Foundation, a local animal shelter. Dogs love the bacon-, cheese-, and liver-flavored water, while humans are happier to sip on wines from Mutt Lynch Winery.

If you and Fluffy or Fido want to take part in all the fun,  ask your FROSCH travel consultant about the exclusive amenities and rates we offer at this resort. And don't forget to follow @RitzCarlton_LN on Twitter or Facebook for hotel info and area specials-- as well as a daily surf report!

Mega snow at the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

Our friends at the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe sent over these pics of the epic snowfall they had last year. That is some serious snow! This year, after a slow start to the season, there's finally snow at Lake Tahoe. Over the weekend, the area got over four feet of fresh powder! That's good news for skiers and snowboarders heading up to Northstar Resort this season, including Olympic gold medalist Shaun White, who last year chose Northstar for his home mountain and primary training resort.

This relationship means a number of new developments for the resort, including a new 22-foot half-pipe for snowboarders and a charity initiative that will benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe's slope-side location makes it easy to take advantage of the fresh powder and groomed runs that surround it at all sides. Their high-speed chairlift, ski valet services, and the on-site Burton Snowboard Academy make it one of the best winter sport destinations in North America, for beginners and experts alike. 

Call your FROSCH agent to start planning your 2012 ski trip, and be sure to ask about the exclusive amenities and added value that we offer when you book at the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe!

(left: the heated sidewalks struggle to keep up with the mountains of snow!)

The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, a Four Seasons Hotel

Offering easy access to the shopping, shows, restaurants, museums, and nightlife Chicago is famous for, The Ritz Carlton Chicago has more to offer than just luxury accommodations and impeccable service. Towering high above the famous Magnificent Mile and sharing an address with one of Chicago’s most famous shopping centers, the view from any room or suite leaves little to be desired.

Ultimate Canyon County Getaway

Close your eyes and try to imagine a desert landscape as far as the eye can see. One that is so tranquil and serene you can’t help but relax as you take it all in. If you could bring this scenery and state of mind to life, it would be Amangiri Resort in Canyon County, Utah. A perfect vacation spot for someone with a hectic lifestyle, this magical place will force you to slow down, spend the week in your robe and yoga pants, and leave feeling healthier and more rejuvenated than ever before.

A Brilliant Place for a Relaxing Break | One Aldwych Giveaway

With the buzz of Covent Garden outside, One Aldwych is a calming sanctuary on the inside and the ultimate place to relax… 

The luxurious Health Club features a stunning, chlorine free 18 meter swimming pool with mood lighting and underwater music - you'd never guess it was tucked away in Covent Garden! Gym addicts can work up a sweat in the 150 square meter, 24 hour gym which has been named “Sexiest Gym of the Year”, whilst those in need of some pampering can enjoy a wonderful treatment from Spanish skincare specialist, Natura Bissé. 

Pick an original cocktail from the happening Lobby Bar’s extensive drinks list, sit back and relax.  With a double height ceiling, original contemporary sculptures and impressive flower arrangements, this is an effortlessly cool yet comfortable bar. 

Need to give your feet a break from shopping and sightseeing? Indulge in One Aldwych’s fresh take on the quintessential British afternoon tea which features light, bright versions of the classic sweet and savoury items and is served with a selection of leaf teas and infusions – simply delicious! 

The food in One Aldwych’s fabulous restaurants, Axis at One Aldwych and Indigo is just as tasty. Both restaurants offer creative menus which are inspired by the best seasonal ingredients and feature top organic, locally sourced produce. So whether it's seared or steamed, your taste buds will be sizzling!

Don’t forget to enter our Facebook giveaway! The prize? A three night stay for two at One Aldwych, plus a three course meal with a bottle of wine, cocktails in the buzzing Lobby Bar and a pampering spa treatment each! Enter to win by joining us on Facebook where you’ll also find full giveaway details and rules. 

 
To stay in the know about what’s on in London and find out about exclusive competitions and offers, follow One Aldwych on Facebook and Twitter!

London for Families, Part III: Elementary, My Dear Watson!

by Jenna Storey 

 

Exploring London with the little ones? There's plenty to keep kids entertained, from educational museums to family friendly live shows to exciting hands-on activities. Here are some ideas to get you started! Talk to your FROSCH Travel agent (or use our Find A Travel Agent tool) for more great London ideas!

Sherlock Holmes Pub.
Photo by Flickr user Lindsey Price.

ELEMENTARY! For mystery lovers of all ages, put your gumshoe skills to the test with a tour of Sherlock Holmes' hometown. Begin sleuthing your way around London with a visit to Baker Street, where you can come face-to-face with a 9 foot statue of the great detective. Your next clue can be found at The Sherlock Holmes Museum located at 221b Baker Street which is actually located between 237 and 241 Baker Street. The museum has recreated his famous study, and Dr. Watson’s bedroom which are primed for snooping. 

Just a few blocks away is 2 Devonshire Place where Sir Arthur Conan Doyle had his medical practice. Take the Tube to Charing Cross and walk to The Sherlock Holmes pub, where Holmes tracked down Francis Hay Moulton in The Noble Bachelors. You can enjoy a detective-themed lunch and various Sherlock memorabilia. Holmes and Watson wander all over London in their adventures including places like The Lyceum Theatre, The Royal Opera House, The British Museum, and St Paul’s Cathedral. Finally, you can solve the mystery by having dinner at Simpsons-in-the-Strand, Holmes’ favorite restaurant,  and drinks at The Punch Bowl which was frequented by the cast of the movie and is owned by Guy Ritchie.

 

A Foodie’s Dream of Gastronomic Bliss in London

by Jenna Storey

Tea and Sugar. Photo by Flickr user vtsr.

Borough Market is an ideal starting place for a foodie in London.  It’s London’s most renowned food market and a wonderful source of produce. Specialty traders come from throughout the United Kingdom to sell their offerings. Spend a morning wandering  from stall to stall sampling all the goodies the market can spare. While the market is closed Sunday through Wednesday, we recommend paying a visit on Thursdays when the market is less crowded and you would have a chance to chat with the booth owners; many of whom are the producers themselves. If you don’t get your fill from sampling around the market there are a variety of restaurants in the area that frequent the stalls for the best products they can find. 

A Fabulous London Location for Serious Sightseeing | One Aldwych Giveaway

London is a “walker’s paradise.” Scoring 100/100 on walkscore.com, the city is easily explored by foot. One Aldwych has a fabulous location bang in the center of London, in buzzing Covent Garden. This award-winning hotel is surrounded by London’s top galleries, exhibitions, big attractions, fashionable boutiques and quirky markets so it's easy to enjoy one of the world's most exciting cities. Plus with exciting events happening in the area throughout the year, you’ll be spoilt for things to do whilst at One Aldwych! Visit onealdwych.com/location to see the hotel’s interactive map and explore the area.

London’s Theatre District | One Aldwych Giveaway

Move over, Broadway. London is the place for theatre. From classics such as The Phantom of the Opera and Les Miserables to a new generation of shows, like War Horse, London’s West End is the epicenter of “Theatreland.” This week’s featured hotel, One Aldwych, is perfectly placed for seeing a dazzling show. Shows which are under a 5 minute walk from One Aldwych include The Lion King (Lyceum Theatre), Shrek The Musical (Theatre Royal) Crazy For You (Novello Theatre) and Legally Blonde The Musical (Savoy Theatre).

Enter to Win a Three Night Stay at One Aldwych in London!

We're excited to announce our December Giveaway! This time, we're featuring One Aldwych, an award-winning hotel in London's buzzing Covent Garden. Become a fan of FROSCH on Facebook for your chance to win, and check in here at FROSCH Insider all week long for great London travel tips, restaurant recommendations, family travel ideas, and more!

Enter our Facebook giveaway! The prize? A three night stay for two at One Aldwych, plus a three course meal with a bottle of wine, cocktails in the buzzing Lobby Bar and a pampering spa treatment each! Enter to win by joining us on Facebook where you’ll also find full giveaway details and rules. 

 
To stay in the know about what’s on in London and find out about exclusive competitions and offers, follow One Aldwych on Facebook and Twitter!

Where in the world is Stephanie Serino? (Eat your heart out, Matt Lauer!)

Hint One: She zip-lined through the rainforest, snorkeled in a cave, and explored ancient ruins.

Hint Two: She stayed in a Deluxe Overwater Lagoon Suite with plunge pool and outdoor shower.

Hint Three: It was only four hours from NY!

Click here to discover the answer.

Agent Review: The Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Plantation

By Ralph Cooper. Photo: Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Plantation.

I recently had the privilege of staying at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds Plantation,  a 35-acre property set on Lake Oconee in Georgia. This is a beautiful property located halfway between Atlanta and Augusta, Georgia. The transfer from Atlanta takes approximately 90 minutes. 

There are many great activities on the property, with five 18-hole golf courses within easy driving distance, a 26,000 square foot spa, skeet shooting, and many water activities in Lake Oconee. The hotel has beach access to the lake and Jet skis are one of the activities available.

The hotel has many hiking trails and Segway rides for the less walking inclined. It's especially nice this time of year with the crisp autumn air and the bright fall foliage. The kids' program is great as at all Ritz-Carltons, with an outdoorsy bent that focuses on the local flora and fauna with nature hikes, scavenger hunts, fishing, and arts and crafts. 

There are a variety of dining options with three excellent restaurants; my personal favorite was Gaby's by the Lake whose motto is "No Shirt, No Shoes, Our Pleasure!" The menu included great BBQ, with a surprise ingredient of Coca Cola in the sauce, and a variety of chefs' special touches including grilled watermelon!

Overall a wonderful spot for a meeting or a long weekend.

November Giveaway | The Pierre

One lucky winner will have a chance to spend two nights at the Pierre Hotel!! Make sure you register for a chance to win by joining us on Facebook and clicking on the “Sweepstakes” tab. If you don’t luck out this time, The Pierre is offering a couple of amazing promotions for FROSCH clients.

Suite Celebrations Promotion: Reserve an Executive, City View or Premier Suite at Best Available Rate for the first night and receive 50% off the second night (unlimited nights). Promotion includes complimentary Internet, two cocktails in Two E, two-piece garment pressing along with other exclusive FROSCH amenities. Based on availability; blackout dates may apply. Cannot be combined with other promotions.

4th Night Free: Now through November 27th, receive 4th night complimentary for all applicable reservations. Based on availability; blackout dates may apply. Cannot be combined with other promotions.

And remember, you MUST book through FROSCH to enjoy these wonderful promotions!

November Giveaway | The Pierre

All you Real Housewives of New York City fans! Win a 2-night stay at The Pierre where Ramona and her husband renewed their vows.

While you’re there, make sure that you make a reservation at Le Caprice, the fine dining restaurant located in The Pierre. Resident Chef Edward Carew introduces Modern-American cuisine with seasonally inspired culinary offerings in his bespoke menu at Le Caprice New York. Overlooking Central Park, the dining room stylishly recreates the pop-chic ambiance of the original Le Caprice brasserie in London’s St. James area.. For dinner, we recommend the Kipper Pate to share as a starter, and the Grilled Veal Chop as a main course. As for dessert, their decadent chocolate fondant is not to be missed.Le Caprice serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week. Bar dining and cocktails available from midday. Weekend brunch from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm Saturday and Sunday. http://www.capriceny.com/

Enter the sweepstakes on our Facebook page for your chance to win! The contest closes on Friday morning!

November Giveaway | The Pierre

The Pierre hotel has a legendary history, having housed celebrities, moguls, socialites, politicians, and even transformed into TV and movie sets spanning its 80 years. It now takes its place among Manhattan’s celebrated landmarks. Originally opened in 1930, the Pierre quickly became a favorite among New York millionaire elites, including the Vanderbilts and JP Morgan, who were drawn in in part by the cuisine of framed chef August Escoffier, the era’s celebrity chef. More recently, the building starred in feature films such as Meet Joe Black and Scent of a Woman as well as television series M*A*S*H, The Sopranos, and CSI: NY. It’s even gotten wrapped up in the reality TV craze, serving as backdrop to a commitment ceremony of one of the Real Housewives.

Most recently, The Pierre temporarily housed Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce and has served as a rendezvous spot for a few extra-office trysts. Sign up to win our 2-night Pierre Hotel giveaway, and perhaps you will soon be rubbing elbows with Don Draper himself.

Make sure you register to win! Join us on Facebook, then click on the Sweepstakes tab for the entry form.

November Giveaway | The Pierre

Great news! The Pierre is giving away a two-night stay at their iconic hotel exclusively to one lucky FROSCH fan. Join us on Facebook for your chance to win!

The Pierre is home to one of New York’s up and coming hotspots, Two E Bar/Lounge. The lounge/bar features classic and traditional cocktails meticulously crafted from the freshest ingredients, and a champagne list that introduces little-known producers, along with a coffee bar and traditional afternoon tea. A menu from Executive Chef Stephane Becht compliments the beverage options, with light fare and small plates to share available until midnight. Be sure to try the hotel’s signature The Pierre Salad, the perfect lunch on a busy day of holiday shopping or after a stroll in Central Park.

Two E’s Afternoon Tea (from 3:00 to 5:00 PM) offers an ideal solution to crisp autumn days. Duck into the lounge and settle in for finger sandwiches, warm scones and sweet pastries washed down with a selection imported teas or a frothy cappuccino. A custom playlist lends a dash of hip to the sophisticated atmosphere. Meanwhile, the reputable service of the bartenders and waitstaff is one of warmth and expertise.

Two E Bar/Lounge also launched its first ever Live at Two E Jazz Series that takes place every Tuesday night from 6:30pm-9:30pm! Guests sip on Piper-Heidsieck Jean-Paul Gautlier Brut Champagne, while listening to a talented duo of jazz guitar and bass.

Make sure you register to win! Join us on Facebook, then click on the Sweepstakes tab for the entry form.

The Fairmont, Washington, D.C.

View of the courtyard from room.

A few weeks ago I visited Washington, D.C. to help with training for the two new offices that recently joined FROSCH. While I was there, I stayed at the comfortable and elegant Fairmont Washington, D.C. 

It's located in Washington's fashionable West End, within walking distance of Georgetown and two metro stations. It's a very walkable neighborhood with a large selection of casual and high-end restaurants, shops, and bars close by. The hotel, popular with heads of state and celebrities, has embraced a "green" initiative, of which the rooftop honeybees and herb garden are the crowning glory.