Tonight started off at the Surrey Hotel with drinks with Denise Kaufmann, Allison Rubler, Meredith Verona and Elizabeth Schnipper Maidman.

Then I was off to Adam Lippes’ house for a dinner and cocktails party held for him by Christian Leone of the Gilt Groupe and the Whitney Museum of American Art to celebrate Lippes’ collection of limited edition wearable art tees by artist Matthew Brannon, E.V. Day, Ellen Harvey and Phoebe Washburn. Derek Blasberg, Lesley Schulhof, Helen Lee Schifter, Alex Kramer, Natalie Leeds Leventhal, Karen Larrain, Zani Gugelmann, Carlos Mota, Bob Colacello, Gigi Howard and Roopal Patel were all there.

Zani Gugelmann and I stopped by The Standard Grill for a dinner with couture designer Reem Acra held by Ali Wise. On hand were the newly engaged Maria Fabiola Beracasa, Byrdie Bell, Jen Brill, Jamie Diner in from London and WWD editor Vanessa Lawrence and stylist Annabell Tollman.

For more photos, visit the Haute Living Events Gallery.

Oakhurst is at the Sierra Mountain foothills just miles from the southern gate of Yosemite National Park, 4 hours from LA, 3.5 hours from San Francisco, and miles away from the ordinary. Château du Sureau, or Estate by the Elderberries is a manor-style 10-room hotel with a warm country feel with a grand staircase, antique-filled rooms, canopy beds, fireplaces, tapestries, and large soaking tubs. The tree-lined grounds include pool, pond, bocce court, gazebo, and a human-size chessboard. A secluded 2-bedroom, French-style villa is set amidst the towering pines at the far end of the estate. The Elderberry House restaurant has hand-stenciled beamed cathedral ceilings and fireplace and is a destination of choice for discriminating patrons. Spa du Sureau is an art-deco inspired escape offering serene, luxurious treatment and extraordinary pampering. With a refined yet relaxed restaurant, grand yet intimate manor house, and sumptuous spa, Château du Sureau is pure magic.

Offered @ $5,500,000

Contact Ronald Lipstone @ 310.724.7000 or Ronald.lipstone@sothebyshomes.com. Or visitwww.sothebyshomes.com/norcal.

The Spa at the Mandarin is a dream; from the first steps into the reception area, a smiling knowing face greets your weary soul with a most gentle and calming disposition, collects your shoes and replaces them with slippers. It is at that moment you have decided to leave the tracks of the hustle and bustle of the city streets behind and enter a realm of ultimate bliss.

You are lead into a female or male changing room, shown a locker to store your worldly possessions, again shedding the weights of urban stress behind a keyless lock, replaced by a cocoon of a most soft and luxurious bath robe. Then you move into the waiting area to enjoy cleansing vitamin rich water infused with grapefruit, orange and lemon.

Your therapist greets you at the waiting area with a folder, ie your very own signature path to wellness. Led into an all-inclusive treatment room, you fill out a questionnaire of your current moods, what it feels like on a typical morning, any aches and pains. Then a series of scent tests. Based on your yin and yang measurements and responses, a specialized treatment is customized to restore you to optimum condition and balance.

Each treatment has a different focus depending on your state. For me, my therapist Aaron R, who I highly recommend, found I had a metal imbalance and prescribed a program focused on release. The specialized treatment included inhaling aromas of eucalyptus, clary sage and frankincense to clear my lungs, boost immune system and lift my emotions. Then I received what may be the best salt scrub of my life, followed by a cleansing shower, and a muscle melting massage.

With each inhale and exhale you begin to let go of the stress and pent up energy, whether it be from starting a new business, a new job or working towards a promotion, maintaining a relationship with your significant other, money worries, concerns about the health of your parents, the state of the BP oil crisis, the homeless man you may have passed this morning on the street corner and every other thought that enters your head on a daily basis manifesting itself in tiny knots on your neck and shoulders. In an hour and a half  let go of the fears, release the worries, and begin to accept all that we can and cannot change.

After the massage, you receive a bottle of water to hydrate. Led into a relaxation area, different than the waiting area, you lay down on a curved lounge chaise. Tucked beneath a soft blanket, warm tea is delivered to your hands and you can observe the city world through the glass panels while your mind drifts among thoughts and imaginations.

When you are ready, continue the journey to the heat lounge. Due to my always oversubscribed appointment book, I arrived just moments before my spa treatment (a near cardinal rule sin of the spa world, though not an eyelash was batted by the most accommodating Mandarin Spa therapists), so I enjoyed the heat lounge post treatment. However I do recommend arriving about 30 minutes early to enjoy the vitality pool before and then the amethyst steam room after.

Mandarin’s therapist Aaron told me that although the amethyst steam room can be enjoyed and compliments the massage oils of the treatment, there is a slight hint of chlorine in the vitality pool which would counteract. Never one to miss an opportunity of experience; however, I did sneak a quick 2 minutes in the vitality pool.

There is nothing quite like the way the bubbles wrap bursting and flowing around your skin. The steam room takes it to another level. An amethest sits high in the room and the steam drips off your forehead and limbs you can sigh with detoxing relief. Just outside the steam room is a most fun and playful experience shower.

If you are there late on a Saturday, you can enjoy this alone as it is a bare all experience, no curtains or doors. For about 5 minutes transform to the age of about eight, switching between tropical mist, rainfall and storm, laughing and enjoying one of the best views in the city. After a series of treatments to encourage release, it is simply bliss to be enjoying a moment of joyous youth in the comfort of sincere luxury.

The Mandarin is an experience to let go of the world beyond those glass panels and embrace not only a pampering experience, but one of ultimate wellness and soul cleansing vitality. It is the must have treatment for the executive, the mom, the overachiever, and all those in search of the ultimate spa luxury, where it’s ok to take time to be all about you.

To book the Mandarin Oriental Signature Spa Therapy or one of their many wonderful treatments contact The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental, 80 Columbus Circle New York, NY 10023, 212.805.8880, www.mandarinoriental.com.

Everyone across the country can watch the cheftestants on Bravo’s Top Chef challenge themselves with new creations every week, But we in Los Angeles have the advantage of enjoying the cooking of several of those Top Chef contenders, and even winners, in person. As Top Chef Michael Voltaggio announced his departure from the Huntington Langham hotel after July17 (to pursue his own restaurant), I decided it was time to get a jump on the next wave and visit the two Los Angeles-based cheftestants for this new season.

My first stop was at downtown’s venerated Water Grill, where Amanda Baumgarten has just come aboard (only three weeks!) as sous chef. For those who don’t know it, Water Grill (jewel in the crown of the King Signature Group) is one of LA’s landmark eateries, winner of awards and accolades from Wine Spectator, Zagat and many others. In an elegant but lively art deco/streamline room, they are best known for their top-quality raw bar, featuring as many as nine different oysters at a time, live sea urchin, and other fruit de mer from around the world.

Chipper and cheerful, LA native Baumgarten might seem more green than her résumé reflects: before coming on Top Chef, she worked at two Michelin-starred restaurants in London before returning home to cook at Melisse, Joachim Splichal’s Patina and Paperfish, and most recently with Ben Ford at Ford’s Filling Station. In fact she reveals that when the economy forced Ford to cut staff, “as a consolation prize,” he recommended her to Top Chef’s producers.

After she passed the audition, Amanda says, “I went through my copy of LaRousse [Gastronomique], did a couple of ‘mystery basket’ dinner parties, and did a lot of yoga,” to prepare. She’s prohibited from saying much about the experience of filming the show now, but says the experience “helped me work at a higher level. And I learned my way around Whole Foods really well!” Of the judges, she says “They are very critical, and they’re right on.”

Water Grill's decadent Lobster Roll with Fries (yes, they're ginormous)

At Water Grill, there’s a different challenge—to present the ocean’s best products as best as possible, while being responsible in sourcing and sustainability. “We’ve been raping the oceans for so long,” she says sternly, “It feels good to honor the product.”

In conjunction with Top Chef, Amanda and Executive chef David LeFevre (with yours truly, below) are producing specials tied to each episode’s theme, available from the Wednesday air dates through Fridays each week she stays on the show. Starting tonight, they will have a “surf and turf” duo of dry-rubbed BBQ Niman pork ribs and diver scallops in a Noilly Prat marmalade.

P.S. The restaurant currently offers free corkages if you want to bring your own bottle.

Next week, we’ll visit cheftestant Alex Resnik at his resident restaurant, Café Was (which is also presenting special Top Chef viewing dinners every Wednesday, including tonight).

Water Grill is located at 544 South Grand, 213.891.0900

Haute Secrets Los Angeles

NAME:  John Simonian

Stats: Born in Lebanon, this watch aficionado has called Los Angeles home for 24 years.

Favorite LA locale: Santa Monica Beach

Time is of the essence for John Simonian. The owner of Westime, the distinguished retail destination specializing in extraordinary timepieces, has been in the watch business all of his life. Simonian grew up in Beirut, Lebanon, but has been living in Los Angeles for almost 24 years. He learned the business working with watchmakers in Switzerland and from his father and uncle who were also involved in the watch making business. The proud businessman and father has recently brought his own son into the Westime team as well. Simonian has two boutiques open in Los Angeles, including one on Beverly Hills’ famous Rodeo Drive.

Check out John Simonian’s favorite haute spots in Los Angeles in our latest Haute Secrets.

Very large (6 bedroom, 7 bath) vintage Laguna Beach home with close-up, sit-down 180-degree views of the north and south coastlines and Catalina Island from most rooms. Recently remodeled in the eclectic old-Laguna style, including lush gardens recycled pier-wood flooring and high beamed ceilings, numerous built-in antiques and pieces of art. Home includes a loft, theatre room, and separate kitchenette on the second level servicing some of its many rooms. Large garden with mature fruit trees, peaceful front courtyard entry draped with wisteria and tropical specimens. Located within the prestigious Three Arch Bay guard-gated community with access to private beach and other amenities.

Offered @ $4,395,000

Contact Chris Guziak @ 949.494.0001. Or visit www.sothebysrealty.com.

Rare opportunity to own a home by famed Hamptons architecture firm, Francis Fleetwood. Beautifully designed house in Sagaponack south on an elevated site with sunset views over farmfields. Fleetwood signature details and quality touches inside, including over 8,000 sq ft of living space, 2000 sq ft in covered porches and 2,000 sq ft in second floor decks. Detached garage, guest house and sunken tennis complete the picture. Private consultation to see site plans and floor plans for proposed home, available upon request.

Offered @ $11,950,000

Contact Rylan Jacka @ 516.702.5707 or Rylan.Jacka@sothebyshomes.com. Or visit www.sothebyshomes.com.

Pleasures abound for those fortunate enough to take full advantage of all that the luxury lifestyle has to offer. Whether it be fueling up the private jet for a jaunt over to Vegas, taking time off to take in the pleasures afforded on a plush megayacht, delighting in the delectable treats offered at one of the city’s many top-rated restaurants, or relishing in some retail therapy at some of our favorite shopping venues, the benefits of affluence cannot be denied. With amenities for both jetsetters and local residents, these six hospitality centers are ready to tend to your every whim. From a day of pampering at sumptuous spas to reveling in a Roaring 20s-style penthouse suite valued at $20 million, there is no limit to the flights of fancy that await when visiting one of these luxury hotels in the City by the Bay.

The St. Regis San Francisco Offers the Ultimate Spa Day

The sophisticated, 9,000-square-foot Remède Spa at The St. Regis San Francisco invites guests and local residents on a fabulous sojourn of indulgence and relaxation. It all begins in the locker room with whirlpools, steam rooms, and saunas, separated for the sexes, where spa-goers start the relaxation process. From there, the journey continues to the lounge, where guests find Champagne and hand-made truffles. There, a spa therapist details some of the menu options like wraps, massages, and facials. One of the favorites, The Stillness Ritual, incorporates fresh lavender grown on the hotel’s terrace garden in a calming herbal bath, followed by a 90-minute Swedish massage. But the pleasures of the signature Stillness Ritual don’t end there. CranioSacral work and foot reflexology ensure that no part of the body, mind, or spirit is neglected. Rounding out the rejuvenation, the glories of the pristine indoor infinity pool beckon to guests, many of whom can’t resist a bite on the way out at Vitrine, The St. Regis San Francisco’s signature restaurant. Set in an elegant and light-filled dining room, Chef Romuald Feger presents inspired breakfast and lunch offerings prepared using seasonal, local ingredients, including herbs and produce from the terrace garden.

The St. Regis San Francisco
125 3rd St. San Francisco, CA 94103
415.284.4000
www.stregissanfrancisco.com

Dine on Napa Valley’s Best at The Restaurant at Meadowood

At the heart of it, Napa Valley is a farming community disguised as a luxury destination. Discerning travelers flock to the region to experience the natural bounty that talented artisans transform into some of the finest wines and dishes in the world. Said travelers can experience all of the fruits of the community’s labor at Meadowood Napa Valley, a picturesque estate nestled amidst the forest-covered hills of St. Helena. The resort and private club was founded with the goal of being one of the world’s finest country destinations, with a focus on a wine and dining program that showcases the region’s most premium offerings.

Dedication to excellence is overtly apparent at The Restaurant at Meadowood, which garnered two Michelin stars. Helmed by Chef Christopher Kostow, The Restaurant at Meadowood features sophisticated California cuisine made in the farm-to-table tradition, one Kostow honors by updating the menu based on the seasonal bounty. This summer, Kostow introduces a six-course “Vegetable & Grains” tasting menu that will feature items such as Chilled Pea & Yogurt Soup, and Potato & Artichoke Salad.

Guests can savor the cuisine that the San Francisco Chronicle just awarded a rare four stars while also enjoying the natural country setting by dining al fresco on The Restaurant Terrace.

900 Meadowood Lane
St Helena, CA 94574-9620
707.963.3646
www.meadowood.com

Joy Abounds at Hotel Vitale’s Terrace Studios

As San Francisco’s first luxury waterfront hotel, Hotel Vitale offers a plethora of ways to fully embrace joie de vivre, which is not only a lifestyle philosophy for connoisseurs of the finer things, but is also the brand name of Hotel Vitale’s parent company, California’s largest boutique hotel collection.

Whether it be the penthouse-level spa facilities or the Italian farm-to-table dining experience at Americano restaurant, the amenities at Hotel Vitale are certainly a draw for those seeking to indulge in a lavish lifestyle when away from home. And if you’re not going to be sleeping in your own feather bed at night, then booking one of Hotel Vitale’s three terrace studios is the way to go. The 509-square-foot Vista Terrace Studio takes up a corner space on the top floor of the hotel, offering expansive 180-degree views of the San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz, Angel Island, and the Ferry Building. Luxury abounds on the seventh floor in the Cielo Terrace Studio, where guests can waltz along walnut floors to the raised seating area that leads to a 500-square-foot private terrace. On the sixth floor, the Terrazzo Terrace Studio also offers the privacy of a 500-square-foot terrace, along with a charming view of the city and the Ferry Building.

Hotel Vitale
8 Mission St.
San Francisco, CA 94105
415.278.3700
www.hotelvitale.com

Opulence Found at Mandarin Oriental, San Francisco

Whether visiting for business or pleasure, Mandarin Oriental, San Francisco offers deluxe accommodations and lavish amenities for both international jetsetters and local luxury lovers seeking a downtown staycation.

Is it the onsite, state-of-the-art, 24-hour fitness center, or access to one of San Francisco’s most exclusive private health clubs, Equinox Fitness, that has connoisseurs of an affluent lifestyle flocking to this elite San Francisco property? Perhaps it is the culinary skills that Executive Chef Rick Bartram exhibits at Silks that speaks to the haute in all of us. This dining venue is ranked amongst the best hotel restaurants in the U.S. The elegance of MO Bar calls for afternoon cocktails, complemented by the new sushi menu available from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. during the week.

With panoramic views of the city, the Golden Gate Bridge, and San Francisco Bay, each of the 158 spacious rooms are quite divine, but to truly sit in the lap of luxury, check out the two-bedroom Oriental Suite. Its 2,000 square feet of space includes a private terrace spanning the entire length of the suite on the 38th floor—meaning unmatched views that will remind anyone who enters exactly why San Francisco is one of our country’s greatest treasures.

Mandarin Oriental, San Francisco
222 Sansome St.
San Francisco, CA 94104
415.276.9600
www.mandarinoriental.com/sanfrancisco

View from the Top at The Fairmont San Francisco

Situated within the quaint Carmel Valley, Bernardus Lodge is a luxury resort that combines the simple elegance of fine country living with high-quality services. The property features 57 lavish suites that radiate the resort’s rustic look and ageless quality with vaulted beamed ceilings, limestone fireplaces, feather beds, and original French doors.

Guests can enjoy Chef Cal Stamenov’s California natural cuisine in two unique dining rooms. Labeled as one of the “Top Restaurants” and “Most Romantic Places South of San Francisco” by the Zagat Survey since 2001, Marinus restaurant has established itself as a four-star culinary venue unlike any other. In addition, the property’s wine cellar offers an extensive 35,000-bottle collection. If it’s a more casual dining experience guests are seeking, a venture to the resort’s Wicker Bistro provides that laid-back ambiance for which well-deserved vacations are designed.

Nothing quite says relaxation like the Spa at Bernardus Lodge. The romantic retreat radiates scents of lavender, sounds of flowing fountains, and warm valley breezes. Nurture the mind, body, and soul with luxurious treatments infused with natural ingredients collected from the ocean, vineyards, and organic gardens. Whether you seek to relax, renew, or reconnect, the award-winning Spa is designed to create the ultimate sensory experience, making a stay at Bernardus Lodge complete perfection.

Bernardus Lodge
415 Carmel Valley Rd.
Carmel Valley, CA 93924
888.648.9463
www.bernardus.com

View from the Top at The Fairmont San Francisco

Reemerging from a $2 million restoration, The Penthouse of The Fairmont San Francisco has been dipped in the holy water of hotel renovations. Not just any penthouse, The Penthouse is one of a kind, with 6,000 square feet of luxurious opulence emanating across the eighth floor of the historic hotel’s main building.

Bathed in Gatsby-esque decadence, modern sophistication marries old-world glamour in this penthouse suite, which originated from the Roaring 20s, a period enamored in unprecedented affluence. Adorned with notable contemporary artwork, elegant chandeliers dripping in Czech crystal, and stunning Chinese porcelain vases, this haven is as exotic as it is classic. The ethereal, palatial suite, complete with a fabled 20s-era secret passageway, features three bedrooms, a formal dining room, living room with grand piano, state-of-the-art kitchen, Moorish-influenced billiard room, terrace offering breathtaking views, and a two-story circular library crowned by a rotunda where a celestial map is rendered in gold leaf against a sapphire sky.

Music legends like Nat King Cole, former U.S. leaders such as President John F. Kennedy, and blue-blooded elite including Prince Charles of Wales round out The Penthouse’s guest pedigree. Its $15,000 per night price tag comes with aristocratic amenities including around-the-clock butler services; access to a chef, massage therapist, and personal trainer; and the use of a Maserati, making The Penthouse, valued at $20 million dollars, more than just the American dream; no prohibition here.

The Fairmont San Francisco
950 Mason St.
San Francisco, CA 94108
415.772.5000
www.fairmont.com/sanfrancisco

Pleasures abound for those fortunate enough to take full advantage of all that the luxury lifestyle has to offer. Whether it be fueling up the private jet for a jaunt over to Vegas, taking time off to take in the pleasures afforded on a plush megayacht, delighting in the delectable treats offered at one of the city’s many top-rated restaurants, or relishing in some retail therapy at some of our favorite shopping venues, the benefits of affluence cannot be denied. With amenities for both jetsetters and local residents, these three hospitality centers are ready to tend to your every whim. From a stay at the only Forbes five-star hotel in NYC to an afternoon in the sun in the middle of the bustling city, there is no limit to the flights of fancy that await when visiting one of these luxury hotels in the Big Apple.

Trump International Hotel & Tower New York

Demonstrating that what’s old is new again under the Manhattan skyline, the iconic Trump International Hotel & Tower New York—the only Forbes five-star hotel with a Michelin three-starred restaurant in New York—has been pushed to the next generation of luxury hospitality.

Emanating from the prodigious Trump pedigree, the Trump Hotel Collection took towering action by invigorating its flagship property with a $30 million renovation. Trump International Hotel & Tower has now been iced with the additions of stainless steel Sub-Zero appliances in the fully equipped European-style kitchens; custom furnishings; plush seating upholstered in velvets and silks; Schonbek crystal chandeliers; sumptuous décor throughout the rooms, suites, and hallways; and updated technology that includes ambient wall controls for the lights, curtains, and temperature, along with 55-inch HDTV flat-screen TVs and Blu-ray/DVD players.

Steps away from the most diverse selection of exclusive shops, dining, and entertainment in the world, Trump International ascends 52 glass stories that don’t only offer 167 newly revamped rooms and suites showcasing sweeping views of Central Park and the NYC skyline, but also a 6,000-square-foot spa and health club, Jean Georges restaurant that features contemporary international cuisine, and personalized Trump Attaché guest services.

Trump’s senior executives are business-savvy beyond their years, conceptualizing fresh designs that are finely in line with the iconic brand. New Trump faces, same illustrious story: Trump International Hotel & Tower brings an unparalleled level of exclusivity to the global compass of luxury hotels. — Diana Gdula

1 Central Park West
212.299.1000
www.trumpintl.com

The Surrey

Manhattan’s Upper East Side is the epitome of opulence and The Surrey embodies the neighborhood’s luxury lifestyle through an incredible blend of tradition and technology. The hotel recently invested more than $60 million in renovations led by revered architectural and interior designer Lauren Rottet.

To enter the lobby, guests step through marble archways onto marble flooring. Limestone walls supporting coffered ceilings quickly surround them as they make their way to the hand-tooled leather front desk. Art is a central theme of the redesign, and it is expressed not only through remarkable paintings and photographs from respected names, but also through such unique elements as an antique Oriental carpet expressed in mosaic tiles.

Considering the various amenities offered at The Surrey, it’s no wonder that guests often find it difficult to leave. Delight in the James Beard-recognized cuisine at Café Boulud, or try out the new Bar Pleiades, located on the lobby level. While the Spa at the Surrey offers such personal rejuvenation options as dropping into an infinity soaking tub before an invigorating session of private yoga, if the spa is not your preferred mode of relaxation, the private roof garden, situated on the 17th floor, is ideal for an evening of romance with the city or a loved one. Lounge seating and sofas tucked away in corners and hidden behind manicured boxwoods will create the perfect setting for the ultimate getaway for hotel guests.
— Alejo Tenutta

20 East 76th St.
212.288.3700
www.thesurrey.com

The Yard at Soho Grand

If you’re seeking solace in the form of summer sun, then your open-air pursuit comes to a prosperous end at The Yard at Soho Grand. A twist on the classic New York hotel restaurant inspired by Le Corbusier, The Yard has officially opened as the hautest urban oasis of the season.

The bar and dining area offers an epicurean collaboration that delights all palates with summertime fare. Sumptuous indulgences satisfy decadent diets with options like lobster rolls and Kobe beef hot dogs, while light and fresh desserts appeal to swimsuit-clad bodies. If feasting is not on the agenda for the day, opt to sit back and enjoy the scenery, bronzing that winter-washed skin while someone attends to your every whim. The outdoor lounge is designed to evoke good times spent with friends in an elegant backyard setting.

Entertaining bevies of trendsetters, Soho Grand guests and VIPs are invited to access The Yard from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, after which time the doors swing open to the public. The powers that be know that society who suns together, sips together, so there is no reserve when it comes to doling out classic creations, fruity favorites, and pitchers, day-and-night, no matter what your clique’s potion. — Diana Gdula

310 West Broadway
800.965.3000
www.sohogrand.com

Pleasures abound for those fortunate enough to take full advantage of all that the luxury lifestyle has to offer. Whether it be fueling up the private jet for a jaunt over to Vegas, taking time off to take in the pleasures afforded on a plush megayacht, delighting in the delectable treats offered at one of the city’s many top-rated restaurants, or relishing in some retail therapy at some of our favorite shopping venues, the benefits of affluence cannot be denied.

The Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach

Splash into summer with the “Beauty and the Beach” Stay-cation Spa Package at Eau Spa by Cornelia at the Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach. The five-star, five-diamond hotel presents a spa wonderland that brings high-touch luxury to your sun-kissed months with an overnight package devoted to sun-worshipping bathing beauties. The beachfront resort offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic, grand guestrooms, majestic suites, and state-of-the-art amenities, including a contemporary take on spa-going and day-long unwinding through fanciful treatments.

The Beauty and the Beach package, starting at $330, features access to Eau Spa’s relaxation zone and magical water gardens, $200 worth of spa credits, and beauty sleep in an ocean-view guest room. Begin the day with a stretch of yoga, bask in the South Florida sun, nourish your bikini curves with Cornelia’s summer treatments, and condition sun-stressed tresses at the spa’s full-service salon. Master skin care specialists offer personalized treatments, while the spa’s Pause, Play, and Perfect philosophy encapsulates relaxation on a decadent level, delivering Fifth Avenue sophistication to Palm Beach’s legendary resort. — Diana Gdula

The Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach
100 South Ocean Blvd.
Manalapan
561.533.6000
www.ritzcarlton.com

The Setai

For the full experience of all that Miami’s luxury lifestyle has to offer, there’s The Setai. The Setai, South Beach (a GHM hotel) blends the serenity, purity, and elegance of Asian traditions with the modern contemporary touches of a cutting-edge, world-class destination resort.

Evermore an icon, The Setai relives the Art Deco age, emanating the affluence of trendsetters, socialites, and celebrities at the legendary resting place of the former Dempsey Vanderbilt Hotel. Offering vast oceanfront views of the Atlantic, “The Art Deco Building” encompasses 85 exquisite rooms, while the sleek glass tower gives rise to 45 suites and a magnificently over-the-top penthouse.

Unwind in the pampering tranquility of The Spa at The Setai, or enjoy dining on fine trans-ethnic cuisine at one of The Setai’s restaurants, indoors or al fresco. Executive Chef Jonathan Wright unveiled a new menu in The Restaurant, and will be launching a series of special evenings this August in celebration of The Setai’s fifth anniversary. Order a round of cocktails at sunset amongst the pleasure-seeking social circles at Collins Avenue’s after-dark hotspot, The Courtyard, set within The Setai’s chic surroundings.

The luxe Miami property features three beachfront pools, an Asprey boutique, and an in-house concierge pleased to arrange a plethora of exciting activities, including private yacht and plane charters, personal trainers, yoga, tennis, golf, and deep-sea diving.

The Setai invites style-savvy locals and jetset guests to celebrate the property’s five-year anniversary with a series of summer exclusives. The Setai is your mecca of glamour, providing privacy and fulfilling desire.
— Diana Gdula

The Setai
2001 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach
305.520.6000
www.setai.com
Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach

Spirited luxury coupled with an ambience centered on serenity calls to the affluent at Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach. Though it towers high in the Miami sky, the Mediterranean charm of this resort is undeniable. Perfectly situated in Sunny Isles, Florida, between Fort Lauderdale and South Beach, Acqualina entices luxury lovers with the 20,000-square-foot, two-story ESPA at Acqualina overlooking the Atlantic, the fine dining of Il Mulino New York, 188 sumptuous residences, and 97 guest rooms and suites.

The Acqualina has set itself apart from others in the field as the only Miami Beach hotel selected to receive the esteemed AAA Five Diamond Award for 2010. It’s no wonder that its popularity continues to attract both the affluent locals and the elite travelers who visit the sunny shores. With four sparkling swimming pools sprawled across four-and-a-half acres of glorious Atlantic oceanfront, the options for activities and relaxation are endless. Families who play together, well, have fun together, and Acqualina will see to that with its innovative marine biology-based AcquaMarine children’s program and many other family-friendly services that will keep all members at ease, giving travelers the chance to kick those feet up and live that lifestyle they’re privileged to enjoy.
— Alexander Miller

Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach
17875 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach
305.918.8000
www.acqualinaresort.com