If you're planning a getaway to an exotic destination like Bali, you can go one of two routes for your hotel stay: beautifully rustic, like one reader did for her honeymoon, or over-the-top luxurious. The new W Retreat and Spa Bali, which just opened last week, definitely falls into the latter category. Designed by SCDA Architects, the resort boasts a modern take on traditional Balinese design in its 237 villas and suites. Click through for a tour!
Photos courtesy W Hotels Worldwide
W Hotel is no longer just your go-to place for lodging. It's now also going to be your go-to spot for fashion. The hospitality chain just announced it's launching a fashion line made up of apparel and accessories. Designers such as Alex and Ani, Foley + Corina, Lauren Merkin, VIX, and Wink have been tapped as designers. "W is a design-led brand, therefore fashion is a tool to engage our guests in design. The people we're after are trendsetters and fashion-forward. We have a passion for fashion," said Eva Ziegler, global brand leader of W. The line, dubbed Global Glam, will be introduced on Sept. 10 at Fashion's Night Out.
To see a few more pieces from Global Glam, read more
If you need a 2009 calendar, let me suggest the most fashionable out there: the W Hotels/CFDA 2009 Calendar ($15). What makes this more special than others? For one, it's designed to look like a sketchbook, includes blank sketch pages, and has room to hold a pencil.
Coolest part, 12 designers, — Diane von Furstenberg, the Rag & Bone boys, Victoria Bartlett — were asked to contribute an exclusive image that has inspired their creative process. Plus, 100 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the CFDA Foundation. I can't think of one reason not to buy this calendar.
For an extravagant weekend away for your entire (furry) family, visit Le Parker Meridian to spend your days roaming the city streets, and your nights tucked away at a swank hotel. This midtown gem features a Feed the Party Animal–room service menu including steak tartare for the carnivores and a minced meat/fruit concoction for the omnivores, a flexible no size, weight, or breed restriction pet policy . . . and is home to Norma’s, the best breakfast-all-day restaurant for you if your pets aren't in the sharing mood with their own snacks.
Much like their dog-run info, NYC provides a comprehensive list of pet-friendly accommodations to choose from. Other standouts include the Ritz-Carlton with Burberry raincoats on loan for the furry fashionistas to North's fave pet-friendly chain, the W, which should stand for their very welcoming dog programs. If you're feeling forlorn for pets back home, or thinking of adding another one to your traveling brood, check out the also pet-happy SoHo Grand where you can even take a goldfish home with you when you leave.
