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12 Reasons to Stay at the Fairmont San Francisco For the Holidays

I’ve always heard of the Fairmont San Francisco’s wonderful holiday decorations, but never had a chance to see them in person.  I recently spent the night there while in town for business.  I not only got to see their beautiful displays up close, but also toured this historic building, which offers much more than meets the eye to lucky guests who stay here.

Christmas decorations in lobby of Fairmont San Francisco hotel

The lobby is quiet now, but will soon be a popular holiday tourist attraction.

Here are twelve reasons why you should stay at the Fairmont San Francisco, whether you are visiting from out of town, or a Bay Area local looking for a fun family outing.  (West Coast readers:  take advantage of the low fare sales right now for a weekend getaway to SF!)

  1. Beautiful lobby decorations including a 2 story gingerbread house.  (Due to the popularity of the holiday display, public hours may be limited, but hotel guests are guaranteed access.)

    Fun fact: They use so much candy it has to be ordered in July.

  2. Family-friendly accommodations:  Spacious rooms, many that can sleep up to 5.  And double rooms have 2 queen beds, often hard to find in the city!  For an even jollier stay, book the Santa Suite.   And all suites have a sofabed!  (You would be surprised how often hotel suites only accommodate 2 people.)

    This closet! Parents who want privacy can put a crib or rollaway in it. (Trust me, many kids would love this space.)

    1 bedroom suite at Fairmont San Francisco

    There are lots of suites that connect to other rooms, so bring the whole family!

    Dining area in 1 bedroom suite at Fairmont San Francisco

    Not all suites are alike. I can help select the one with the space you need.

  3. Exclusive Virtuoso amenities for my clients:  Daily breakfast for two, $100 food and beverage credit, upgrade on arrival if available, early checkin/late checkout if available, wifi.
    Breakfast buffet at Fairmont San Francisco

    Use your Virtuoso breakfast amenity to eat at the buffet or order ala carte.

    Omelette station at Fairmont San Francisco

    The staff is so friendly!

  4. Another exclusive for my clients:  Access to a private Holiday VIP lounge with snacks served 3x daily.

    Restaurant and lounge at Fairmont San Francisco

    The Holiday VIP Lounge does not open until Dec 14. But don’t worry, I did a quality control check in the Laurel Court bar

  5. A private outdoor garden for guests (and dogs) to enjoy.

    Outdoor garden at the Fairmont San Francisco

    It’s nice to have a quiet retreat when in the middle of a city.

  6. The only luxury hotel with panoramic bay views.
    San Francisco Bay views from Fairmont hotel

    Alcatraz and Angel Island visible from my room. On higher floors, you can also see the Golden Gate Bridge.

    Corner suite at Fairmont San Francisco with panoramic bay views

    And for even better views, book a corner suite!

  7. Rooms with balconies, too!

    Rooms with balconies at Fairmont San Francisco

    They overlook the garden, and face the bay.

  8. An excellent location – walk to Chinatown, Market Street, Union Square.

    Gates to Chinatown in San Francisco

    I never tire of visiting Chinatown.

  9. Tonga Room and Hurricane Bar with live music in the evening – only hotel guests can make advance reservations.

    The Tonga Room was closed for a private event during my stay, but no worries, there were many other ways to get a festive drink.

  10. Excellent use of space:  Plenty of outlets, and even USB ports by the bed.  And I loved the hidden coffee cupboard with a Keurig (my preference over Nescafe).
    Coffee nook closed in hotel room

    Cupboard closed – nice and clean for those of us who don’t like hotel room clutter.

    Coffee nook open in hotel room

    Shelf pulls out for easy access, push it back in when done.

  11. Chromecast in every room so you can stream holiday shows from your laptop or mobile device.

    Suite living room at San Francisco Fairmont

    Love the new decor, all rooms and suites were renovated in 2015.

  12. There’s a dining table inside the gingerbread house!  (Be sure to reserve it early.)

    Dining table inside gingerbread house at Fairmont San Francisco

    Available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

I loved this hotel so much, I booked my own family for another visit before Christmas so that they can enjoy the holiday magic, too.

Contact me to book your stay at the Fairmont San Francisco.  There are many room configurations in two different buildings, so I can explain the pros and cons to pick the best one for you, ensure you receive the exclusive Virtuoso amenities, and reach out to my contact at the hotel to personally oversee your reservation and VIP you.

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Celebrating 20 Years – The Champagne Is On Me!

I am often asked how long I have been in the travel business.  I usually only give a vague answer, as I started it when I was working as an engineer in Silicon Valley.  My first child was a toddler at the time, so I’d guestimate it from his current age.  I was dabbling in it part time, mainly as a hobby, not sure what would eventually come of it.  So I didn’t think of it as a real business.

A few years later, another baby came along, and then a downturn in the tech industry, and suddenly I was out of a job. But my little hobby had been growing, and with two young children, a home-based business with flexible hours was looking very attractive.  And  it was a lot more fun than a tech job!  So there was no clear cut start time, no “grand opening” date.  It just evolved.

My inspiration: Planning our 6 week trip to Alaska in 1994, which included 2 weeks hiking and kayaking above the Arctic Circle, camping in Glacier Bay and Denali Park, and riding the ferry through the Inside Passage.

While cleaning up my office at the end of last year, I was tossing old files, and came across my very first DBA application, for “Family Treks Travel.”  The date on it:  1998.

Twenty years!!  How time flies when you are having fun!

My own graphic design work. The silhouette is a composite of my husband, and a good friend and her two children, from a backpacking trip in Yosemite.

I have had multiple careers over the course of my life, but this one has endured the longest, and is the one that I can see myself in until retirement.  Although from what I can tell, there is no such thing as retiring from the travel industry.  I mean, when people retire, they often start traveling, so why in the world would I not want be on the inside of this industry??

Since I am very lucky to have found a career I love, I feel compelled share to my good fortune with others.  So I would like to announce, in celebration of my 20th anniversary, that I am donating 1% of my 2018 revenue to Tourism Cares.

Tourism Cares’ mission is to unite the travel industry in providing aid, in the form of volunteering and charitable giving, to tourism destinations.  This ranges from assisting after natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes, to planting trees in Bangkok, to providing volunteer labor in our National Parks.

Travel industry volunteers donated 5,000 hours to the National Park Service in celebration of their centennial year.

And I’d also like to do something special for my clients:  If I plan an anniversary trip for you this year, a bottle of champagne is on me!

I would also like to thank every client who has trusted me with their precious vacation dollars and time over the past 20 years.  The best compensation I ever receive is the email, letter, or call from a client telling me what a fantastic trip they had. That, to me, is priceless.

#20years #travelwithsuzette #champagneisonme

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Spring Break Inspiration Part 1 – Europe

As a family travel specialist, I solve the problems that frustrate parents when they try to plan a trip overseas. Some of the services I provide include:

– Finding guaranteed connecting rooms or family rooms that sleep 3 or more guests
– Arranging age appropriate activities that are fun for everyone
– Hiring expert guides who can engage even young children
– Arranging family photo shoots to capture the memories forever

Happy kids = happy parents (and vice versa!)

My clients also receive exclusive amenities at preferred partner hotels, which may include free nights, daily breakfast, and hotel credits.

Here are offers from some of my clients’ favorite hotels in Europe:

LONDON

The Corinthia Hotel is loved by many clients for its excellent location close to many attractions, luxurious rooms, and huge spa. Virtuoso clients receive a 4th night free through April 22, 2018, and these amenities:

A luxurious retreat after a busy day in London!

  • Daily breakfast for two
  • £85 Hotel Credit
  • Complimentary high speed Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
  • Access to the extensive Thermal Floor at award-winning ESPA Life at Corinthia
  • Complimentary 24-hour gym access
  • Complimentary Upgrade (if available at check-in)
  • Butler Service for River Suites and Penthouses
  • Complimentary use of the hotel car within Central London (Zone 1)

The award-winning spa-aaaaah.

For travelers who book by April 9, there are bonus amenities! Get all of the above and a choice of one of the following:

  • Guaranteed early check-in
  • Guaranteed late checkout
  • Guaranteed upgrade to the next room category

* Offer applies to Deluxe King Rooms up to The Whitehall Penthouse

Check out The Crafty Concierge which offers lots of great ideas for families in London.

It’s just a 10 min walk to the Golden Jubilee Bridge

PARIS

Esprit St Germain is located near Luxembourg Gardens on the Left Bank, within walking distance of the Louvre and Notre Dame.  Families love it for the warm hospitality towards children of all ages, making it feel like a home away from home.

Book the Prestige room on the top floor to get a private terrace with this gorgeous view.

They are offering a 4th night free through April 30, which includes the following complimentary amenities:

  • Daily American breakfast
  • Lobby bar with champagne, wines, spirits AND minibar in room (yes, complimentary!)
  • WI-FI
  • Access to the fitness centre, steam room, and sauna
  • Access to the business centre
  • Daily newspaper of your choice
  • Flowers and fresh fruits daily

Blackout dates: March 3 to 7, 2017 (inclusive). Valid only for Superior & Deluxe Rooms

Feel like a guest in someone’s home while enjoying complimentary drinks in this “bar.”

ROME

The Hotel Eden near the Spanish Steps just completed an extensive renovation, so it’s more stylish than ever. They are offering a 4th night free through March 31, and my clients are eligible for Dorchester Club amenities:

  • One category upgrade guaranteed at time of booking
  • 100 EU hotel credit
  • Daily full breakfast buffet for 2 people
  • Unlimited wifi for unlimited devices

Who says historic hotels have to have dark rooms?

They still have their lovely rooftop dining room overlooking the Borghese, featuring some of the best views in Rome, where guests can take breakfast, or enjoy music and cocktails in the evening.

 

They don’t even charge for the view!

You can read about traveling to Rome with kids in a previous blog post.

Roman sites are impressive, but hiring a guide gives deeper understanding, and helps make navigating the crowds less stressful.

LISBON

The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon is offering a 4th night free. My clients always receive the Four Seasons preferred Partner amenities, which include daily breakfast and a spa credit. And if you book a suite, they’ll also pick you up in a limousine on arrival!

Plenty of room for the whole family.

A run with a view

Lisbon is a beautiful city steeped in history, but there are many kid-friendly attractions including an aquarium and safari park, or you can hire a driver for a day trip to beaches or castles.

Sometimes getting out of the city is the best way to enjoy it.

For a special treat, you can go for a spin through winding cobblestone streets with a professional photographer in a vintage Moto-sidecar. Check it out here.

For help finding your family’s perfect European vacation, contact suzette@suzettemacktravel.com.

 

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Suzette Mack Travel “Grand Opening” Offer!

UPDATE:   Congratulations to Heather B., winner of the Amazon gift card!  Check back often for more contests, and to keep up to date on the latest travel news, offers and tips!

Thank you for visiting my new website!   To celebrate the launch, I’m giving away a $100 Amazon gift card to one lucky traveler. Simply visit the Contact page, enter your information, and put “Grand Opening” in the subject line.  Contest ends Oct 31, and I’ll select one name at random to be the winner.

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Summer Vacation Solutions

Don’t panic if you haven’t planned summer vacation yet. There are still many options available, and you can even get some pretty good deals.  I have many offers in my inbox, I just pulled out a sampling of what’s available around the globe.

Kids Free in the Galapagos

With Lindblad Expeditions’ 50th Anniversary Savings, book a Galapagos trip by July 1, 2017 and the first child travels free, the second at 50% off on select departures!  Snorkel with sea lions, hang out with giant tortoises, hike right next to iguanas and blue-footed boobies and kayak along the most idyllic bays. You’ll do, see, and learn more with the most experienced Expedition Team in the islands! 

Yes you can get this close! 
Bucket list item- check!
Fun for all ages!


And if you can’t make it this year, book any 2018 expedition before June 1, and you’ll be guaranteed the 2017 rates.

I had the pleasure of traveling to the Galapagos with Lindblad in March, check out more of my photos here.  

Cruise to the Great Land

Several lines still have space available for Alaska this summer.  Crystal Cruises is offering Kids’ Sail Free when sharing a cabin with 2 adults on most departures.  That can be combined with their Crystal Clear Choice promotion which offers a choice of savings, including a $600 per person onboard credit!  AND my clients also get an additional onboard credit courtesy of Virtuoso.

From ship to glacier in a few hours

Regent Seven Seas is offering a Book Now Bonus on all sailings, including $250 per person shipboard credit for Alaska.  And if you select a Virtuoso Voyages sailings, you also receive your choice of amenity, either a shipboard credit or an exclusive shore excursion.

Glacier Bay is just one of several locations
where you can see spectacular glaciers

Seabourn’s Extraordinary Opportunity Event runs through June 13, with special savings on select 2017 departures including:
• Three Veranda Suite Category Upgrade
• Veranda for Oceanview category Upgrade
• Onboard credits up to $1,000


Say Aloha to Hawaii

Four Seasons Resorts on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island are offering resort credits of up $200 per night for select dates (credit varies by room category booked).  The Four Seasons Resort Lanai is offering a $1000 activity credit for guestrooms, and $2000 for suites.  Stay longer than 5 nights and the credit increases, and all this can be combined with our Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities.

Maui beaches rock!

Kings Pond is fun for families who like to snorkel
at Four Seasons Hualalai

Hit the Beach in Miami

Acqualina Resort & Spa in Miami is offering a Family Escape Package through Sep 30, including

  • Daily access to the Children’s Center, home to the AcquaMarine program offering educational marine-themed programming for children ages 5-12
  • Access to the resort’s beachfront basketball, soccer lawn, foosball and ping pong tables.
The kids may never want to leave

  • Daily activities for toddlers including bike time on a no-pedal Strider Balance Bike, stretch sessions and relay races on the beach
  • A $40 spa credit for up to two adults 
  • Daily buffet breakfast for two (or four in a two-bedroom suite)
  • Complimentary Valet Parking
  • Complimentary Wifi

Parents may never want to leave, either!


Caribbean Getaways

Ritz Carlton Reserve Dorado Beach is offering a Stay Longer promotion, with 10-30% savings on Ocean View and higher rooms.  The longer you stay, the more you save.  And you receive a $50 per night resort credit, as well as Virtuoso amenities.  No passport needed to visit Puerto Rico! 

Besides these beautiful rooms, they have residences
and a 5 bedroom plantation


Shore Club Turks & Caicos lets you stay for 7 and play for 5 when booking a full size suite or penthouse. Rates include breakfast daily, free calls to the USA & Canada, Kids Club for 4-12, use bicycles, tennis court, fitness center, and non-motorized water sports, and wifi.  And of course you can enjoy their four pools: Adults Pool, Family/Resort Pool, Colonnade Pool and lap pool.

An exclusive retreat on Long Bay Beach

Nicaragua Ecolodge Package

My “go-to” Central America supplier is offering an amazing program that includes two of the most authentic and luxurious ecolodges in Nicaragua at a fantastic low price.  You first visit Jicaro Island Ecolodge, one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World, located on a private island on Lake Nicaragua.  

You don’t have to rough it at an ecolodge

Then you are transferred to Morgan’s Rock Hacienda & Ecolodge, a Virtuoso property located right on the beach.  You can choose from a wide selection of tours in each location, including visits to volcanoes, artisan markets, and colonial towns.  Rates include 3 meals a day at Jicaro, and breakfast at Morgan’s Rock, plus other value-added amenities.

This beach!

Don’t let summer slip away without making some fabulous family memories! To get started, contact Suzette at suzette@family-treks.com.

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Spectacular Spring Break Savings!

“I don’t really care about saving money on my vacation.”  Said no one ever.

If you want to plan a spring break getaway, NOW is the time to book. I have been able to find some great early booking values, most of which are only available  because of our agency’s preferred status with a particular resort, or through a tour operator who only works with travel professionals.

Here is a recap of the savings I found for clients in the past week:

$11,000 savings on a multi-gen family vacation – Grandpa wanted to take his kids and grandkids to Florida in April, so he needed to book a combination of rooms and suites.  This was the amount saved over the rate published on the resort website after applying a Virtuoso discount and an exclusive 4th night free offer.

One Bedroom Oceanfront Suite
One of the beautiful oceanfront pools
Lucky kids!
This same family could have stayed at another resort offering a 50% discount on ALL junior suites booked in combination with a 1 BR suite. It would have totaled to >$1000 per night savings over the published rates. What a great deal for families who want a connecting room for the kids, and suites have kitchenettes as well!

This beach!
Hawaii Villa Savings – I found a Book Early offer for March on 2 and 3 bedroom Maui villas through a supplier who only works with travel advisors.  The client is saving thousands of dollars since they needed multiple villas for their party.
Space, privacy, and your own plunge pool

Views of Lanai from a practically private beach.
Haleakala – One of Maui’s spectacular natural wonders.
$1500 savings on a 1 Bedroom Suite – The same tour operator also has Book Early rates on hotel rooms and suites at many resorts.  This luxury resort is my favorite for families on Maui!
A waterslide, swim-up bar, adults only pool, huge spa,
award-winning restaurants, and a gorgeous beach.
And this view!  What more can a family ask for? Well…
…How about complimentary breakfast every day?
(A Virtuoso amenity exclusively for my clients.)
I was even able to find a great deal for a client traveling to Europe over the holidays:  a 200£ savings per room per night for New Year’s Eve. And they will get the Virtuoso amenities which include daily breakfast and a 100 USD equivalent hotel credit.

This room is worthy of a special occasion.
This place will be hopping on NYE!
To be frank, there generally there aren’t a lot of Christmas “deals” to be found.  I do have the advantage of knowing suppliers that often have rooms blocked at a below market rates.  But inventory is limited, so the early bird has the best chance to score one of those rooms.

Even if you end up paying the published rates,  remember that you still get a better value when I book you, because of our preferred agency amenities, such as daily breakfast for two, upgrade on arrival if available, and resort credits.

It’s understandable that many travelers want to wait until after the holidays to start planning trips for next year. But it’s likely the best offers will be gone by then.  Imagine how relaxing it would be to not only have your spring break travel planning out of the way, but also know you have saved yourself a lot of money! 

So give yourself the gift of a more restful holiday season by sending an email to suzette@family-treks.com, and from there I’ll do all the work!

I’ll take this image over sugarplum fairies dancing in my head any day.
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Book London Now for Deals Later

There are some offers available right now for London, valid for travel throughout the year. Some expire next month, and others are limited to availability.  If you plan ahead, you can get a great deal with some of our favorite hotels and tour guides.
Combining traditional grandeur with modern freshness, the redesigned Victorian building is ideally located in the heart of London, facing the River Thames.  It is a short walk from many of the city’s major attractions, and offers an exquisite light-filled lobby, a spacious exterior courtyard, and the most breathtaking spa in London, housed across four floors.

The best spa in London
Annual Sale
Up to 30% off the best available rates. Must be booked by April 30.
Family Friendly Package
Two connecting rooms (if available at time of booking) or nearby, for one discounted rate.  Parents will receive a bottle of champagne, and children will receive a game console and some treats.  Valid for stays until Dec 30, 2016. 
Rooms average 485 sq ft

My clients receive Virtuoso amenities on these offers as they do when booking regular rates:
  • English Breakfast for two people per room,
  • Noon arrival (subject to availability),
  • Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability),
  • £85 Hotel Credit (once per stay)
  • Water and fruit
(Blackout dates and minimum stays may apply)

London’s quintessential luxury boutique hotel, a magnificent 19th-century architectural treasure centrally located in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Each of the rooms, luxury suites, and long-stay apartments are dressed with fine fabrics, fresh flowers, antique furnishings, and rare artworks, plus 21stcentury technology. The hotel has two staff members for every guest, ensuring personal care to every detail.  Family friendly amenities include Mini bathrobes & slippers, a teddy bear book and a chocolate mouse on turndown, and even baby intercoms.
 

Every room is unique


Brownell Travel Exclusive Amenities:
  • $100 food credit per room per stay
  • Additional $100.00 food credit for bookings of two or more nights
  • English Breakfast for two each day
  • Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
  • Early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability)
  • Book a suite for 3 or more nights and get a one way airport transfer
  • Book an apartment for 4 or more nights and get a one way airport transfer

Spacious apartments for long stays

A beautiful townhouse dating back to 1843, enviably located on a tree-lined street in fashionable Knightsbridge (just a short walk from Harvey Nichols and Harrods). The hotel features its own private art collection, and all of the 28 guestrooms and suites are individually designed. Head barman Antonio Pizzuto has spent 40 years perfecting his art, and is known for the best martinis in London.
 

It’s 5 o’clock somewhere!


Brownell Travel Exclusive Amenities:
  • Full English Breakfast daily
  • £100 Food Credit
  • Exclusive pair of member tickets to current exhibitions at The Victoria and Albert Museum with access to the members lounge. (These tickets are impossible to get!)
  • Afternoon tea for 2 on one day during their stay
  • Martini Master class
  • Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
  • Early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability)
  • Book a suite for 3 or more nights and get a one way airport
Authentic London townhouse in a residential neighborhood

Family Sightseeing Tours

Context Travel is offering 10% off family tours around the world if booked by April 30.  Client favorites in London include:
British Museum for Families
Join an archaeologist in the discovery of the British Museum: one of the largest repositories of ancient art in the world, and an amazing backdrop to a family-oriented exploration of the ancient world and its traditions, religions, and lives. Families will learn about how the museum was founded and how the passion for collecting is still alive today.  Using fun educational tools, they’ll pick a theme or a particular civilization and follow its development throughout time while navigating the museum.
 

Hands on learning


Tower of London for Families
Known for its feathered inhabitants, for its gruesome executions and its famous prisoners, the Tower is the site of intriguing stories that inspire and fascinates young visitors. Why do the ravens live in the Tower? Was the Tower really used as a zoo? Led by a specially trained family-friendly historian guide, the tour provides an interactive learning experience for children and introduces them to British history
 

Kids love the macabre!


Drawing London: A Hands On Art Workshop
A hands-on tutorial on how to engage and hone your powers of observation and expression, under the auspices of a professional artist and art teacher.  The tour starts at the artist’s beautiful flat, and while sipping a cup of tea, families are introduced to materials and a demonstration of some basic drawing techniques.

Anyone can be an artist

They can even arrange for a  a private tennis lesson on Henry VIII’s court!

Context regular tours are a good value even when not on sale.  And if you have 4 or more in your group it’s less expensive to book a private tour!

Contact me if you’d like more information, or are ready to book so that you get our exclusive amenities.

My clients love London!
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Four Seasons Resort Hualalai Announces Best Values of the Year

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, you need to know about the great values being offered at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.  If you have flexibility in your schedule, you can time your trip to get the lowest rates of the year, a resort credit, and Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities if you book through me.
The absolute lowest rates of the year are for travel in September and October, if you book by June 30 for at least 5 nights.  (Other value dates are June 20 – 30 and November 7 – 20.)
  

Beautiful views from all the rooms

In fall, Ocean Golf rooms start at $645/night, and this deal can be combined with the Resort Credit Promotion, also requiring a minimum 5 night stay.  Here are all the dates the resort credit is available for the various room categories:
Suites – $1000 credit
Apr 20 – Jun 30, 2015
Aug 22 – Nov 20, 2015
Nov 28 – Dec 18, 2015
Ocean-View Room, Prime Ocean-View, Oceanfront – $500 credit
May 03 – May 31, 2015
Jun 20 – Nov 20, 2015
Nov 28 – Dec 18, 2015
Ocean-View Golf, Poolside, Partial Ocean-View – $250 credit
Aug 22 – Nov 20, 2015
Nov 28 – Dec 18, 2015
Lava rock shower!
Families can get 50% off a second room on these dates:
Apr 20 – Jun 30, 2015
Aug 22 – Nov 20, 2015
Nov 28 – Dec 18, 2015
And don’t forget that the Kids for All Season program, for ages 5-12, is complimentary!

Want to golf every day?  Then check out the Unlimited Golf package, which requires a 3 night minimum stay:

Unlimited daily golf for two guests with each night purchased, including access to the driving range and a shared cart, and daily buffet breakfast for two.

Apr 20, 2015 – Dec 18, 2015
Jan 03, 2016 – Apr 30, 2016

Having fun on the Jack Nicklaus
signature golf course
Children are welcome on the course, too!  Juniors 13-17 pay reduced fees, and kids 12 and under play for free, with a paying guest.

No matter what promotion or room type you book, as my client you also receive these exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities: 

  • Daily full American breakfast for two people per room
  • $100 food and beverage credit 
  • Upgrade based on availability at time of check-in
If you’d like to know more about the amazing resort, or would like me to find the best rates for your family, just send an email to suzette@family-treks.com.  My contacts will personally oversee your reservation to make sure you have an amazing room and an amazing time!

Wish you were here?

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Starwood Luxury Collection Update (aka More Perks For You!)

I attended the Starwood Luxury Collection Showcase this month in San Francisco, hosted by one of the member properties, the historic Palace Hotel.  I got to speak with sales representatives from dozens of hotels and resorts around the globe, including Hawaii, Europe, South America, and even Dubai!

Some visitors from Spain


Three great beach getaways

Here are a few interesting facts I learned:
Le Meridien London has family rooms that sleep 4.  There are only a dozen of them so you need to book early!
St. Regis Deer Valley is not only offers quick ski in/out access to the slopes, but has a ski in bar.

Apres-ski in Deer Valley
The Phoenician and The Canyon Suites in Scottsdale has a 2 acre cactus garden on property with nature trails, and every Friday and Saturday at sunset they have a bird of prey show.  They also added Surge, a water spray playground last year.
The Canyon Suites (top left) have a private lobby & pool,
but full access to all Phoenician Resort facilities
St. Regis Istanbul just opened in March, has 3 pools, and is across from the city’s largest park, a great location for families.
St. Regis Bora Bora can arrange a very special wedding proposal.  They will fly you and your special someone in a helicopter over a beach where coconuts will spell out Will You Marry Me? 

Was the answer “Yes?”
Then you can conveniently plan your wedding before you leave!
The Greece Destination Program gives travelers reduced rates when they stay 7 or more nights in any combination of participating hotels in Athens, Costa Navarino, Mykonos, Santorini, and Eloundra.
Las Alcobas will open in Napa Valley within the next year.  All rooms will be at least 600 sq ft with balconies and outdoor fireplaces, located in a rural setting in walking distance to downtown St. Helena.
Now let’s talk about amenities! (One of my favorite topics to write about!)
In 2013, Starwood introduced Luxury Privileges, a preferred partner program, similar to Virtuoso, Four Seasons Preferred Partner, and Ritz Carlton STARS.  Brownell Travel is a member of all of these “by invitation only” programs due to its elite agency status.


So that means my clients will receive amenities when I book their stay at Luxury Collection properties, including: 
  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
  • Daily breakfast for two
  • Welcome amenity value at $100
  • Complimentary in-room internet
  • Early check in and late check out, subject to availability
Additionally, there are occasional exclusive Luxury Privilege deals, such as 3rd night free being offered at the St. Regis Monarch Beach in Orange County through May 31.
 

Beautiful SoCal sunset at the
family-friendly St Regis Monarch Beach

How do you get these amenities?  You don’t have to have any special Starwood status, or even a Starwood number (though I highly recommend you get one).  All you need to do is let me book your stay, and then I’ll ensure you receive the best amenity from any program applicable to that particular hotel.

Starwood has plans to add many more hotels to Luxury Collection over the next 5 years, so stay tuned here for the latest news.  

To find out how to get the most perks for your next getaway, send an email to suzette@family-treks.com.


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Exclusive Hotel Amenities from the Dorchester Collection

We all want the most for our money when traveling, especially when paying premium prices for a five star hotel.  Now my clients have yet another way to get more value when booking a hotel.

The Dorchester Collection recently announced a new preferred agency program, called The Diamond Club, and Brownell Travel is one of the charter members.

This is one of the best amenity programs I’ve seen, and there are no blackout dates! It’s good at all nine hotels in their portfolio:
 
(And more hotels to come)


Here’s what guests receive when they book a Dorchester Collection hotel through me:

  • A one category upgrade guaranteed at time of booking (if available, up to a junior suite)
  • Daily breakfast for 2 people per room
  • A hotel credit equivalent to 100 units of local currency, applied to the final bill
  • Unlimited internet access for an unlimited number of devices
 
Hotel Principe di Savoia Classic Room
 
For guests who book a suite, or any room at 45 Park Lane, they receive the same amenities, with a few enhancements:
  • Daily breakfast for 2 people per bedroom
  • A daily hotel credit of 100 units of local currency
 
45 Park Lane Deluxe King Room

Suite at Le Meurice

Also, each hotel will have a Diamond Club ambassador on-site around the clock, to ensure my clients are getting their amenities and to assist with any special requests.  This is especially helpful when I need to reach a hotel in case of emergency at any time of day, especially when clients are traveling abroad.

Hotel Plaza Athenee Paris

This is just one of several preferred agency programs with which Brownell is affiliated, including Ritz Carlton STARS, Four Seasons Preferred Partner, Rosewood Elite, and Starwood Luxury Privileges.

The next time you plan to book a hotel, whether it’s for one night or two weeks, contact me first at suzette@family-treks.com to check if you are eligible for any exclusive amenities or upgrades.   

The Beverly Hills Hotel
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