As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, Europe transforms into a dreamy paradise, perfect for those who love luxury and elegance. If you’re looking to indulge in the finer things while experiencing the magic of autumn, here are five destinations that promise a classy and fabulous escape this fall:

1. Paris, France – Timeless Elegance

The City of Light is even more captivating in the fall. Stroll through the tree-lined Champs-Élysées, visit the Louvre without the summer crowds, and enjoy a warm croissant at an outdoor café. Don’t miss a private shopping experience at the iconic Rue Saint-Honoré for the latest in haute couture.

Here are our  luxurious and elegant hotel recommendations for your accommodation in Paris.

1. The Ritz Paris – Iconic Glamour

Located in the heart of Place Vendôme, the Ritz Paris is the epitome of Parisian luxury. With a rich history dating back to 1898, the hotel offers opulent suites, impeccable service, and a world-class spa. It’s a favorite among celebrities and royalty alike. Enjoy a sophisticated afternoon tea at the elegant Salon Proust or sip on a cocktail at the famous Bar Hemingway.

2. Le Meurice – Art and Sophistication

Overlooking the Tuileries Garden, Le Meurice blends classic Parisian charm with contemporary luxury. This palace hotel is a haven for art lovers, featuring design by Philippe Starck. Indulge in two-Michelin-star dining at Restaurant Le Meurice, helmed by renowned chef Alain Ducasse, or unwind at their rejuvenating Valmont spa. Its grand interiors and impeccable service make it a top choice for discerning travelers.

3. Hôtel Plaza Athénée – Haute Couture Experience

Famous for its striking red awnings and prestigious location on Avenue Montaigne, Hôtel Plaza Athénée exudes timeless elegance and style. Known for its connection to the world of haute couture, the hotel is a favorite among fashionistas and designers. Enjoy gourmet dining at the Michelin-starred Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée or relax at the serene Dior Spa, inspired by the elegance of the iconic French fashion house.

-These hotels embody the classy and fabulous essence of Paris, offering an unforgettable blend of luxury, elegance, and impeccable service.

2. Florence, Italy – Art and Opulence

Florence in autumn is the epitome of Italian charm. The rich history, stunning Renaissance architecture, and world-class galleries make it an ideal destination for those who appreciate art and luxury. Explore the Uffizi Gallery, sip on fine Tuscan wines, and enjoy a serene stay at a boutique hotel overlooking the Arno River.

Here are three exceptional hotel recommendations for your accommodation in Florence.

1. Four Seasons Hotel Firenze – A Renaissance Palace Experience

Nestled in a 15th-century palazzo surrounded by 11 acres of lush gardens, the Four Seasons Hotel Firenze offers guests an exquisite blend of history and luxury. The hotel features beautifully restored frescoes, opulent suites, and an award-winning spa. Dine al fresco at Il Palagio, a Michelin-starred restaurant, or unwind in the tranquil private garden—a hidden oasis in the heart of Florence.

2. Hotel Savoy – Contemporary Chic with Historic Flair

Located on the Piazza della Repubblica, Hotel Savoy seamlessly combines modern luxury with Florentine history. Its elegantly designed rooms and suites are infused with the sophistication of Italian fashion, thanks to the touch of renowned designer Olga Polizzi. The hotel’s restaurant, Irene, offers a refined Tuscan menu crafted by celebrity chef Fulvio Pierangelini, making it a culinary destination in its own right.

3. Villa Cora – Opulence Overlooking the Arno

For a more intimate yet equally luxurious experience, Villa Cora offers an elegant retreat just outside the city center. Set in a grand 19th-century mansion, the hotel boasts stunning views of the Arno River and the Boboli Gardens. Lavish décor, including intricate stuccoes and frescoes, evoke Florence’s rich artistic history. Relax by the outdoor pool, enjoy gourmet dining, or indulge in treatments at the luxurious spa.

-Each of these Florence hotels offers a distinctive take on luxury, ensuring that your stay will be as classy and fabulous as the city itself. From Renaissance opulence to contemporary chic, these are the finest options for an unforgettable Florentine escape.

3. Vienna, Austria – Imperial Grace

Vienna’s regal charm makes it one of Europe’s most sophisticated cities. Fall is the perfect time to visit as the city’s parks turn golden, creating a picturesque backdrop. Enjoy a night at the Vienna State Opera, followed by a stay in one of the city’s grand palaces-turned-hotels, where history meets luxury.

Here are three magnificent hotel recommendations for Vienna, each offering a luxurious experience steeped in imperial elegance:

1. Hotel Sacher Wien – A Royal Viennese Experience

Known for its rich history and famed Sachertorte, Hotel Sacher Wien is an icon of Viennese luxury. Located near the Vienna State Opera, this hotel exudes classic charm and imperial grandeur. Each room is elegantly decorated with antiques and fine art, offering guests a true taste of royal opulence. Indulge in world-class dining at the hotel’s renowned restaurant, Rote Bar, and enjoy the timeless ambiance of the Café Sacher for an authentic Viennese coffeehouse experience.

2. Palais Coburg – A Grand Palace Retreat

For those seeking to immerse themselves in the grandeur of a true palace, Palais Coburg is the perfect choice. This five-star hotel, set in a 19th-century palace, offers spacious suites with stunning views of Vienna. The hotel’s wine cellar is legendary, boasting one of the most extensive wine collections in Europe. Dine at the two-Michelin-star Silvio Nickol Gourmet Restaurant or relax in the private spa, complete with a sauna and pool, all while surrounded by the timeless splendor of imperial Vienna.

3. Hotel Imperial – Classic Elegance with Imperial Splendor

Originally built in 1863 as a palace for the Prince of Württemberg, Hotel Imperial remains one of Vienna’s most prestigious hotels. The grand marble staircases, crystal chandeliers, and historic décor create an ambiance of old-world sophistication. With its impeccable service, the hotel ensures a regal experience. Dine at the award-winning OPUS restaurant or sip champagne at the majestic 1873 HalleNsalon bar for a truly imperial evening.

These luxurious hotels capture the essence of Vienna’s imperial past while offering modern-day comforts and indulgence. Staying at any of these properties guarantees a classy and fabulous journey through the heart of this elegant city.

4. Prague, Czech Republic – Gothic Allure

Prague is a city of stories, and in the fall, its Gothic architecture takes on a mysterious beauty. Take a stroll across the Charles Bridge under the autumn skies, dine in Michelin-starred restaurants, and explore the city’s vibrant arts scene. Prague’s boutique hotels offer a cozy and stylish retreat after a day of exploration.

5. Lake Como, Italy – Lakeside Luxury

For those looking to relax in opulence, Lake Como is the perfect destination this fall. Surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the Italian Alps, the lake’s luxurious villas and five-star hotels offer breathtaking views and unmatched privacy. Enjoy gourmet dining, private boat tours, and the ultimate Italian escape.

Europe in the fall is a symphony of colors, culture, and luxury. Each of these destinations offers a unique blend of history, sophistication, and indulgence—perfect for those who live life the classy and fabulous way.

Our luxury travel tips…!

Santorini (Greek: Σαντορίνη, classically Thera  and officially Thira (Greek: Θήρα , is an island in the southern Aegean Sea, about 200 km (120 mi) southeast of Greece‘s mainland. It is the largest island of a small, circular archipelago which bears the same name and is the remnant of a volcanic caldera. It forms the southernmost member of the Cyclades group of islands, with an area of approximately 73 km² (28 sq mi) and a 2011 census population of 15,550. The municipality of Santorini includes the inhabited islands of Santorini and Therasia and the uninhabited islands of Nea Kameni, Palaia Kameni, Aspronisi, and Christiana. The total land area is 90.623 km² .

Santorini is essentially what remains after an enormous volcanic eruption that destroyed the earliest settlements on a formerly single island, and created the current geological caldera. A giant central, rectangular lagoon, which measures about 12 by 7 km (7.5 by 4.3 mi), is surrounded by 300 m (980 ft) high, steep cliffs on three sides.

The main island slopes downward to the Aegean Sea. On the fourth side, the lagoon is separated from the sea by another much smaller island called Therasia; the lagoon is connected to the sea in two places, in the northwest and southwest.

The depth of the caldera, at 400m, makes it impossible for any but the largest ships to anchor anywhere in the protected bay; there is also a fisherman’s harbour at Vlychada, on the southwestern coast. The island’s principal port is Athinios. The capital, Fira, clings to the top of the cliff looking down on the lagoon. The volcanic rocks present from the prior eruptions feature olivine, and have a small presence of   hornblende.

It is the most active volcanic centre in the South Aegean Volcanic Arc, though what remains today is chiefly a water-filled caldera. The volcanic arc is approximately 500 km (310 mi) long and 20 to 40 km (12 to 25 mi) wide. The region first became volcanically active around 3–4 million years ago, though volcanism on Thera began around 2 million years ago with the extrusion of dacitic lavas from vents around the Akrotiri.

The island is the site of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history: the Minoan eruption(sometimes called the Thera eruption), which occurred some 3,600 years ago at the height of the Minoan civilization. The eruption left a large caldera surrounded by volcanic ash deposits hundreds of metres deep and may have led indirectly to the collapse of the Minoan civilization on the island of Crete, 110 km (68 mi) to the south, through a gigantic tsunami. Another popular theory holds that the Thera eruption is the source of the legend of Atlantis .

Santorini was named by the Latin Empire in the thirteenth century, and is a reference to Saint Irene, from the name of the old cathedral in the village of Perissa – the name Santorini is a contraction of the name Santa Irini. Before then, it was known as Kallístē ( means , “the most beautiful one”), Strongýlē (Greek: Στρογγύλη, “the circular one”), or Thēra. The name Thera was revived in the nineteenth century as the official name of the island and its main city, but the colloquial name Santorini is still in popular use. During the Ottoman Empire‘s domination of the Aegean Sea, the Turkish exonym for the island was “Santurin” or “Santoron” .

Speculation on an Atlantis connection

Archaeological, seismological, and vulcanological evidence has been presented linking the Atlantis myth to Santorini. Speculation suggesting that Thera/Santorini was the inspiration for Plato‘s Atlantis began with the excavation of Akrotiri in the 1960s, and gained increased currency as reconstructions of the island’s pre-eruption shape and landscape frescos located under the ash both strongly resembled Plato’s description. The possibility has been more recently popularized by television documentaries such as The History Channel programme Lost Worlds (episode “Atlantis”), the Discovery Channel‘s Solving History with Olly Steeds, and the BBC’s Atlantis, The Evidence, which suggests that Thera is Plato’s Atlantis.

Santorini became independent of Ottoman rule in 1821, during the Greek War of Independence, and was united with Greece in 1830 under the Treaty of London.

During the Second World War, Santorini was occupied in 1941 by Italian forces, and in 1943 by those of the Germans. In 1944, the German and Italian garrison on Santorini was raided by a group of British Special Boat Service Commandos, killing most of its men. Five locals were shot in reprisal, including the mayor.

Cuisine 

Local specialties:

• Brantada – A local Santorinian fish dish. Cod fillet coated in a mixture of flour, water, salt and sometimes beer, normally served with garlic salad. The best place to try it is in some less touristic villages, like Exo Gonia. 
• Koskosela (local Strapatsada)
• Santorinio Sfougato – A traditional Santorini dish. Ingredients: small zucchini, onions, extra virgin olive oil, flour, eggs, rosemary leaves or spearmint tea leaves or dill, xinomyzithra or other sour milk cheese or soft feta, naxos sweet gruyère, salt and fresh ground pepper, sweet peppers, sesame seeds. 
• Tsounisti (Manestra)

• Fava – A local Santorini dish, originally made with the broad bean. Later on, the broad bean was replaced with an easier version, the yellow shelled lentil. Its name originates from the word “favus” which is the Latin word for broad beans.
• Melitinia (dessert) – Melitinia are cookies that are made for weddings, engagements and festivals. They are made of unsalted mitzithra cheese and yogurt and they also have a beautiful smell of mastic. They can be found in the traditional bakeries of Santorini. 
• Tomatokeftdes – also known as tomato fritters, is made with Santorini cherry sized tomatoes. It is cooked in olive oil with onions, peppers, mint and other herbs.

Of course one of  the Best Places to Dine with Unique view is the Character  Lounge Bar & Restaurant  at  Fira. Other interesting restaurants  are  ” The Athenian House”  in Imerovigli,  “Lauda Restaurant” at Adronis Boutique Hotel,  “Sea Side by Notos” at Agios Georgios – Perivolos,  “FlyAway” Creative Restaurant  & Bar at Imerovigli, “Mylos” at Firostefani , “Casa di Te” – Firostefani without view but excellent food.

Wine industry 

 

Architecture 

The traditional architecture of Santorini is similar to that of the other Cyclades, with low-lying cubical houses, made of local stone and whitewashed or limewashed with various volcanic ashes used as colours. The unique characteristic is the common utilisation of the hypóskapha: extensions of houses dug sideways or downwards into the surrounding pumice. These rooms are prized because of the high insulation provided by the air-filled pumice, and are used as living quarters of unique coolness in the summer and warmth in the winter. These are premium storage space for produce, especially for wine cellaring: the Kánavawineries of Santorini.

When strong earthquakes struck the island in 1956, half the buildings were completely destroyed and a large number suffered repairable damage. The underground dwellings along the ridge overlooking the caldera, where the instability of the soil was responsible for the great extent of the damage, needed to be evacuated. Most of the population of Santorini had to emigrate to Piraeus and Athens.

Where to stay in Santorini :

Some nice choices for your accomodation would be Cavo Tagoo Santorini in Imerovigli,  Andronis Boutique Hotel in Oia, Canaves  – Oia Suites & Spa , Astra Suites , Katikies Hotel – Oia  ,  Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Santorini , Ambassador Aegean Luxury Hotel and Suites – Oia.

There are also plenty of luxury private villas all over the island where we can give you recommendations and prices upon request. Boheme Villa in Pyrgos is an excellent point for example.

Best way to go there:

Santorini is one of the few Cyclades Islands with a major airport, which lies about 6 km (4 mi) southeast of downtown Thera.  Scheduled airlines include the new Olympic Air, Aegean Airlines, Ryanair and Athens Airways, with chartered flights from other airlines during the summer, and with transportation to and from the air terminal available through buses, taxis, hotel car-pickups and rental cars.

My Look :

Dresses & Shoes  : Zara 

Sunglasses : Michael Kors 

Purse : Celine 

Watch : Rolex 

Hair Stylist : Gerasimos Galatis Santorini 

With a name meaning ‘magic’ and sublime hillside setting – promising views of minarets and Medina – Hotel Sahrai

captivates from the moment you arrive. This airy retreat is a marvel of light and space, bringing together a modern look with a time-honoured feel. Inside and out you’ll find traditional Moroccan features, from Taza stonework to Fassi ceramics – alongside crisp interiors and designer furnishings.

• • Stunning mix of old and new design by architect Christophe Pillet
  • Infinity pool with Medina views
  • Exclusive Givenchy Spa – one of just four in the world ,   are some of the Unique Qualities of the luxurious hotel.

  • 

The star of the Sahrai hotel is the Givenchy Spa – a blissful place to relax in refined surrounds. Indulge in a muscle-relieving massage on a terrace overlooking Fez, unwind in the Jacuzzi and hammam, then browse the luxury boutique.

The Givency Spa

Hotel Sahrai , Fez, Morocco 

There’s also an inviting pool with panoramic views. At dinnertime, Hotel Sahrai offers a choice of Moroccan flavours or Parisian gourmet menus. With a hip atmosphere and delicious cocktails served under starry skies, the Rooftop is perfect for ending the day in style.

Hotel Sharai Fez, Morocco 

Fez’s labyrinth-like Medina, with over 9,000 winding streets, is just moments from Hotel Sahrai.

Join one of the hotel’s guided tours through the alleyways to discover the city’s enchanting history and culture. Or watch locals create beautiful leather goods at the Chaouwara Tanneries. To see Fez’s famed architecture and artisanship, a visit to Medersa el-Attarine or Dar el-Makhzen won’t disappoint.

Classical and contemporary, sleek and sophisticated, a palatial boutique overlooking Fez

THE ROOMS

Acqua di Parma products in the Bathrooms

Things to Enjoy…

Hotel Sahrai , Fez , Morocco 

Sahrai , Fez, Morocco 

Hotel Sahrai , Fez

Hotel Sahrai Fez, Morroco

Online Booking here

1. Location, Location, Location !

Walk out to the left and you’re in Central Park. Walk across the street and you’re in FAO Schwarz. Walk out to the right and you’re at all of the fab shops of Fifth Avenue.

2. Service is impeccable from the doorman to housekeeping, and everything in between.

3. Rooms, even standard, are quite large for NYC standards.

4. Gorgeous chandeliers everywhere!!

5. Todd English food hall with something for everyone. Truly delicious food, drinks and desserts.

6. Eloise in all her glory. The Eloise suite makes the most amazing mother/daughter getaway! It’s “rawther” incredible. You can also indulge in afternoon tea, Eloise style, which is an experience itself…complete with a pink cotton candy ending.

7. The Rose Club. The Champagne Bar.

The Palm Court. Iconic.

8. Gorgeous bathrooms with wonderful bathrobes and the fluffiest towels. Yes, fluffiest.

9. The history and grandeur of the hotel. The Plaza opened it’s doors in 1907 and, even with extensive renovations, they have stayed true to the original style and standard of excellence.

10. What I love most is that the hotel offers something for everyone. It’s wonderful for families with its prime location, but equally fantastic for girls getaways, couples and multi-generational vacations.

11. I have to add an 11th because of the exclusive amenities clients of mine receive…upgrade upon arrival if available, breakfast for 2 daily, $100 food and beverage credit (see #5 and #7 above) and early check-in, late check-out. Nice perks!

This February, for Valentine’s Day and beyond, set the stage for a weekend of romance at The Plaza. From chocolate and Champagne cocktails to a sumptuous breakfast in bed, the Plaza people handle all the details. And this year, with each of plaza’s  winter romance packages, they’re offering a little extra sparkle from The Plaza Legacy Jewelry Collection, featuring sparkling Baccarat crystals repurposed from antique chandeliers that once hung in the hotel.

http://www.fairmont.com/the-plaza-new-york/special-offers/…/