TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

Why You Should Always Download an Airline’s App

Why You Should Always Download an Airline’s App

Modernity affords us great luxury—but I hate being prompted to download apps.

My coworking space, for example, has two apps. One for booking rooms and services, the other for entering the building. I can get my head around using an app to enter a building (I guess lanyards are out), but the former is a nightmare to use.

Over the last year, I’ve also been asked to download apps to do things like use a train ticket, use my rice cooker, and power on an electric fan.

My point is this: Apps used to serve an actual purpose. I’m suspicious and burnt out from downloading one too many useless apps.

That being said, as a travel writer and frequent jet-setter, there’s one example in which I’ll gladly walk back my attitude toward needless apps—at the airport.

As air travel becomes more difficult and delay-prone, having immediate access to the apps from both the airport and airlines in question is one of the most robust readiness plans.

It gives you first dibs on updates and more straightforward answers when the going gets rough.

Here’s why you should download an airline’s app 100% of the time, and maybe even an airport app, too. (Looking for other great travel-focused apps? Start here.)

Reason #1: You’ll be better prepared when flights are delayed or canceled

Dealing with delayed and canceled flights is a nightmare.

Even if you know how to get compensated for delays and cancellations, you still need to make it to your destination on time.

The best way to stay agile when facing delays or cancelation at the airport is via an airline’s app, which offers things like flight tracking.

First, this gives you the option to rebook your flight immediately—without waiting in long lines to speak with an agent.

Second, it usually makes selecting a new flight easy, as you can shop around for various routes and flight times from the airline’s interface.

Third, it lets you do this straight from your phone—no confusing or difficult interactions involved.

The same is true for delays at the airport. When you download an airport app (or a more general air travel app like MyTSA), you’ll be the first to hear about delays, long lines, and other issues that could impact your trip.

This might not be a huge deal for those traveling domestically. However, if you have to pass through customs at a busy airport in a major city, keeping these apps on your smartphone will help you gain a clearer understanding of any last-minute interruptions.

Reason #3: You’ll have first dibs on deals & other offers

If you’re a member of an airline rewards program, the app is the best way to find the latest deals, offers, and ways to use your points. That includes affordable upgrades on your upcoming flights—which can help you figure out when it’s worth it to use points for a first-class upgrade.

Aside from upgrades, airline and airport apps also show you when and how to find those fantastic lounges. While you might need to be a member to use them, that’s not always the case.

Reason #4: In-flight services

To be blunt, I’m not the biggest fan of airlines that require passengers to download apps to make in-flight purchases. But given all the other benefits of having an airline’s app downloaded to your phone, it’s not a red flag for me.

When you have an airline’s app downloaded, you can easily purchase in-flight goods. That includes all those sweet duty-free and discounted offers.

Reason #5: You’ll find hidden gems & deals at airports

Many airports are cooler than you think.

In fact, dozens of airports worldwide have launched unique programs and opportunities that can help relax and engage weary travelers. One of the easiest ways to find these hidden gems is by downloading an airport’s app.

Along with things like meditation lounges and put-put courses, you can also find information about food courts, lounges, terminals, and more. This is especially helpful for those facing long layovers in countries that speak a different language.

Best of 2024: Top Five Selections from The World’s 50 Best Hotels

Ever wondered what the height of hotel luxury feels like?

The answer isn’t as simple as elite seven-star hotel amenities or a perfectly curated five-star stay.

Rather than rely on feature lists or star ratings, publications like the World’s 50 Best use their own unique criteria to rank the world’s best hotel experiences.

The answers might surprise you in any category—from the World’s 50 Best Beaches to the World’s 50 Best Bars. Though I write about travel hospitality around the globe, the World’s 50 Best lists regularly surprise me in the best way possible.

Ever on the hunt for hidden gems, I’m taking you on a tour of the top five selections for the 2024 World’s 50 Best Hotels, located in places like Bangkok, Lake Como, and Hong Kong.

Capella Bangkok

Courtesy of Capella Bangkok

Bangkok is the last place I would expect to find the best hotel in the world.

That’s not a dig on Thai culture or the city itself—it’s a commentary on what I think about bustling cities like Bangkok. My thought is this: How can a hotel achieve the uppermost echelon in such a busy place? Can hospitality actually cut through the noise?

But the insane hustle of Bangkok might be part of Capella’s magic.

The Capella is renowned for its focus on serenity and calm. From its lighting to its spatial arrangements to its riverside villas, there’s a sense of utter peace. But as you know, location and great design aren’t the core components of a great five-star stay.

The key ingredient is service. The Capella excels in its bespoke programming. Expert staff are on hand to help guests put together the perfect experience, from luxury shopping to fine art.

In a mad city like Bangkok, that type of service is quite literally industry-leading.

Passalacqua Lake Como

Courtesy of Passalacqua

I recently spent a day in Locarno, Switzerland—just an hour north of Lake Como. Between Lake Como and Locarno is a city called Paradiso, which translates to ‘paradise’ in English.

That’s all you need to know about the stunning lakes in the southern Alps: An almost biblical paradise, a true heaven on earth, an Italian Shangri-La.

At Passalacqua, guests are taken into a storybook Milanese villa that dates back to the 1700s. Located right on the lake and dotted with stately gardens, it’s almost a picture of royal luxury.

Extravagance, glamor, and refined tastes are set free at Passalacqua.

Rosewood Hong Kong

Courtesy of Rosewood Hong Kong

Remember when I mentioned my shock at seeing a hotel in Bangkok—a large, bustling, and unfettered city—take the top spot?

Well, color me stupid because the Rosewood is located in Hong Kong—and it’s not the last hotel in a major metropolis to take home a Top 5 finish from the World’s 50 Best Hotels.

Similar to Capella, part of Rosewood’s magic is in its spacious and grand minimalism. It feels larger than life and, at the same time, is grounded with unique and high-end pieces.

Art lovers can rejoice, as much of the interior is designed to highlight and celebrate its funkier, modern pieces. I haven’t seen a hotel design quite like this, to be honest. It feels boutique, homely, and yet austere.

The woodwork elements are refined and austere, while the furniture adds a pop. Toss in neutral tones and it’s a refreshing, whimsical take on high design.

Cheval Blanc Paris

Courtesy of TripAdvisor

Paris? Opulence? C’est la vie! This riverside luxury hotel has all the markers of an opulent and Parisian stay.

The architecture is a celebration of the city’s most famous district, while the interior is at once fresh, lavish, and inviting.

It seems that for the World’s 50 Best Hotels ranking, one reason the Cheval Blanc comes out ahead is its elevated gastronomical offerings. Its four restaurants are some of the finest in the city—and one has even made an appearance on the company’s World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

The Upper House Hong Kong

Courtesy of Upper House

Coming in at Number Five, Hong Kong’s The Upper House is my favorite pick on this list. Its minimalist design is at once homely and stately.

But the hotel’s shared spaces, including a grand bar and dozens of high-end sculptures, infuse the grounds with a moody atmosphere.

I’m a big fan of the soothing yet intense nature of the design. The lighting is soft, almost spa-like, while the color palettes and materials (lots of shined stonework) call back to lurid, powerful tastes.

Like its contemporary Rosewood, there’s also a lot of high-end artwork, which provides endless intrigue.

Best Family Rentals in the Grand Canyon: North Rim & South Rim

The Grand Canyon is a rite of passage for American travelers.

It’s high on many travel bucket lists for a good reason. As one of the world’s most iconic geological formations, it attracts tourists of all stripes. From hikers looking to make it from the South Rim to the North Rim to more nature-forward couple’s retreats, there’s something for everyone.

That includes families, too.

The Grand Canyon is a great choice for families on vacation because it offers a solid range of things to do.

Hiking is obviously a big attraction, but so are more relaxing scenic drives and horseback riding excursions. There are museums galore that are home to interactive exhibits and ranger-led excursions into the canyons.

Toss in the proximity to major cities and Native American reservations and it’s no surprise that hundreds of thousands regularly stop by each year.

But where do Grand Canyon tourists stay? And what sorts of rentals are ideal for families that plan on exploring the national park? Let’s take a closer look at the best family rentals in the Grand Canyon, including choices near the South Rim, North Rim, and nearby Flagstaff, Arizona.

Best family rentals in the Grand Canyon

Top rentals near the North Rim

Best remote choice: Desert sage chalet with mountain views

Courtesy of Airbnb

This cabin has everything a family could want for their Grand Canyon adventure.

The kitchen is well-stocked, making it easy for families to whip up a bite to eat in the morning or later in the evening. An extensive book collection is great for those who don’t want to tune in to the 40’ big screen.

The second bedroom includes two twin beds and one crib, making this a great choice for young families. The pull-out couch provides even more room for loved ones.

Though the home is located in a neighborhood, there’s plenty of outdoor space to soak up the remote desert vibes—including a fire pit for making s’mores.

Book here

Best no-frills rental: Powell Driftwood Delight

Courtesy of Airbnb

Want to stay right inside the Grand Canyon action? This Page rental keeps you close to the best hiking trails and scenic lookouts.

Aside from a great location, it’s got all the amenities that a family looks for in a rental—from a washer-dryer setup to for last-minute clean-ups, tea and coffee choices for relaxed mornings, and a BBQ area on the back porch for evening cookouts.

The rental also offers child-centric amenities like games and toys for those with younger children. There’s plenty of space for them to relax and play indoors.

Best of all, the rental’s proximity to Page means that restaurants, galleries, and other attractions are all a short drive away.

Book here

Best overall desert escape: Artful Southwestern Retreat on 4.5 Acres

Courtesy of Airbnb

Are you looking for total desert immersion? If your family enjoys stunning sunsets and clear night skies, this home in Kanab offers the perfect setting.

The exterior offers multiple sitting areas, which let you soak up the desert atmosphere with loved ones. The interior also has something for everyone, from fireplaces perfect for winter gatherings to an extensive record collection.

Given this rental is a bit more grown-up than others, it’s best for families with teenagers or older children. And keep in mind that this rental is located a few hours north of the Grand Canyon’s North Rim.

On the plus side, it’s almost equidistant between the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park, letting you explore both natural wonders.

Book here

Top rentals near the South Rim
Best for large families: King Bed Grand Canyon Desert Cabin

Courtesy of Airbnb

This rental is located near Williams, one of the last settlements before travelers reach the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.

This secluded cabin gives you the best of both worlds, providing a lens into the ruggedness of the canyons without totally leaving civilization behind.

Eight can sleep comfortably in the six beds and three bedrooms—and comfort is an important word there, as the owners have gone above and beyond to find seriously plush bedding. Anyone worried about exhaustion after hiking all day will be happy here.

Though there aren’t too many kid-centric amenities like toys or cribs, I like that there’s limited Wi-Fi and electronics at this rental. If you’re looking to get in a little digital detox for you and your kids, this is should be your top pick.

Book here

Best for nature-lovers: Casa Sublime 36-acre Grand Canyon Retreat

Courtesy of Airbnb

This remote rental is also located near Williams—but it’s a bit further off the beaten path, making it ideal for nature lovers.

With 36 acres all to yourself, you can truly explore and soak up the desert at your own pace… all without leaving the grounds.

With multiple outdoor seating and dining areas, you’ve also got your choice of venue. While you have the Grand Canyon, Kaibab National Park, and downtown Williams all within reach, I think the remote nature of this rental is the main selling point.

For any families wanting to escape the hustle—and possibly even spot some wildlife—this should be on your radar.

Book here

Best overall choice: Entire home in Williams

Courtesy of Airbnb

My favorite overall Grand Canyon rental is this Williams selection. It sleeps seven guests in three bedrooms and offers almost as much outdoor space as it does indoors.

The interior was also designed with entertaining large groups in mind—its open floor plan is ideal for families of all shapes and sizes.

Plus, there’s also a tiny house located on the grounds. You’ll have the option of bundling that into your stay, which is ideal for larger groups that might have an infant.

I also like that the backyard is fenced, which means you can let the kids spend their energy without watching like a hawk.

Book here

Best family rentals in Flagstaff

Best family retreat rental: Home in the Pines

Courtesy of Airbnb

This Flagstaff rental is great for families that want to be close to a range of popular outdoor activities. From the grounds, you can easily reach the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, along with hiking trails and some of the best skiing slopes in Arizona.

For outdoorsy families, it doesn’t get any better. The living areas are spacious and modern, while the bedrooms include state-of-the-art bedding. The backyard is also geared toward large groups, offering a grill, dining area, scenic views, and plenty of seating.

Best of all, there are family-centric amenities like board games, books, and some outdoor gear. There’s also a pack’n-play for those traveling with small children. Even pets are invited!

Book here

Best rental for huge families: Winter Wonderland Snowbowl Ski Retreat

Courtesy of Airbnb

If you’re going to be traveling with a family of over ten, keep this winter wonderland rental on your radar.

It’s located just outside of Flagstaff on five acres of private property. It’s got all the best winter amenities travelers dream of, from an outdoor hot tub to a large fireplace in the living room.

Though this rental is marketed towards families and large groups that want to ski during winter, I think it’s a pretty solid choice for those who also want to explore and hike the Grand Canyon. Plus, I’m sure the remote views are beautiful no matter the time of year.

Book here

How to Get More Space on Flights: Legroom, Empty Rows, & More

Everyone dreams of a free upgrade while waiting to board their plane at the airport.

Even if the bump is only to economy plus, that can make a world of difference in terms of comfort—especially when it comes to long-haul flights.

Unfortunately, landing that upgrade is usually a matter of loyalty. Passengers who are part of a membership program, and especially those with an elite status, are the first to receive upgrades.

But that doesn’t mean all hope is lost. Where there’s a will, there’s a way—and it turns out there are plenty of ways to get upgrades, free seats, and empty rows on flights.

Looking for a few air travel hacks on how to get more space? Here’s how to get legroom and more on your next flight for free.

The basics: get to know airlines and airplanes

Before I get into the good stuff on how to get more space on flights, I want to point out one thing that plane-savvy travelers regularly do:

They look into what airplanes that airlines fly on specific routes.

This information lets passengers gain an immediate understanding of how many seats are in each row of the plane they’ll be flying on.

For example, two airlines that fly the same Airbus 320 might have a different number of seats. Spirit Airlines stuffs 178 seats into its Airbus 320s, while United Airlines has only 138.

That means that paying for extra legroom on Spirit might be the equivalent of a regular economy seat on United.

If that sort of comparison interests you, I suggest you look into SeatGuru. It’s a platform that lets passengers research flights according to features, amenities, and more.

Now let’s move on to how to get more space for free on planes, including making sure that middle seat next to you is empty, how to get a whole row to yourself, and how to get extra legroom.

How to sit beside an empty middle seat

  • Select an aisle or window seat in a row that’s partly occupied. Book an aisle or window seat in a row that already has one of those places occupied. Few travelers would actually select or pay for a middle seat, meaning it’s more likely to stay empty. This is a popular hack for couples who want to guarantee they have the whole row to themselves without forking over for the extra seat.
  • Board last. You’ll be able to get a lay of the land and nab any aisle or window seats that have an empty middle seat. This might not work 100% of the time depending on the airline’s policy—but it’s worked for me in the past.
  • Ask about upgrades before boarding. While landing a first-class or business-class upgrade probably isn’t in the cards, you can always ask to move to a window or aisle seat in a row without a middle-seat passenger. This is how to get more space on flights without the extra effort.
  • Go for the last row—and the middle row. The middle seat in the last row is more likely to be empty. That’s doubly true for the middle seat in a middle row at the back of a plane.

Tips to get the whole row to yourself

  • Select a seat in an undesirable spot. That’s right—you need to be willing to make a little sacrifice if you want to nab a whole row. Travelers recommend booking the aisle or window seat near the bathrooms, the service area of the plane, and the back of the plane. With the added foot traffic and light, others might not be interested in booking those seats.
  • Check the airline’s policy. Some airlines make it easy for passengers to purchase the entire row for certain flights, especially when flights aren’t fully booked. Keep in mind that this hack on how to get more space isn’t free.
  • Book the aisle seat. Similar to guaranteeing an empty middle seat, one of the best ways to get a whole row to yourself is to book a seat in the aisle at the back of the plane. The aisle seat in the back of the plane, according to data, is more preferred than the window seat, giving you a slightly higher chance of getting that whole row solo.
  • Focus on economy plus over economy. When selecting a seat, focus your efforts on the economy plus section of the flight over the regular economy section—especially when it comes to long-haul, international flights. You might need to pay a bit extra, but you’re more likely to land a whole row for a small fee in economy plus because other passengers are more focused on savings.

Hacks for extra legroom

  • Look for bulkhead seats. On some airlines, these rows offer more legroom—even if they aren’t officially billed as emergency rows or extra legroom seats.
  • Use websites like SeatGuru to compare seat sizes. The best way to get extra legroom for free is to pay attention to which airlines are slashing their seat sizes.
  • Use websites like ExpertFlyer to get notifications about seat upgrades. This handy platform lets you set alerts for flights based on when seat upgrades and availability change.
  • Book a seat in the first row of your section. The first row of economy and economy plus, for example, usually have more legroom at no extra charge.

Hawaiian Dreams: Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii

Hawaii is a dream destination.

From its unspoiled jungles and its vibrant beaches to its delicious eats and unique culture, the US’s 50th state provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable vacation.

There’s only one catch: Hawaii is one of the priciest vacation destinations in the world.

The more expensive the vacation, the higher the stakes. In other words, if you’re going to do it—then you need to do it right.

And what’s one of the key ingredients of a worthwhile and excellent vacation? A great hotel.

If you’re going to Hawaii, be on the lookout for a high-value, comfortable, and experienced hotel that can provide you with a great landing pad.

While you might be tempted by the savings of a large chain resort, it’s the boutique experience that offers a more personal and atmospheric look into life and culture on the islands.

But with so little room and so many options on the four main islands of Maui, Oahu, Hawaii, and Kauai, which hotels are worth your hard-earned money? Here are my top choices for the best boutique hotels in Hawaii.

Best boutique hotels in Hawaii by island

Best boutique hotel on Maui

Courtesy of Booking

Hotel Wailea

This Relais & Chateaux project is an adults-only hotel in the heart of Maui’s Wailea region. It offers a dreamy stay right in the heart of one of Hawaii’s most lovely paradises, providing palm tree backdrops and sweeping jungle views.

If you’re on the hunt for that curated tropical feel, then look no further. Aside from the greenery, the grounds also showcase ocean views, plus an expansive and opulent outdoor pool.

While Hotel Wailea’s promise of delectable views and eco-immersion might not sound overly impressive, it’s worth noting that this location has taken home a handful of awards, including nods from US News & World Report and Conde Nast Traveler.

Book here

Best boutique hotels on Oahu

Courtesy of Booking

Prince Waikiki

Looking for oceanfront views? You won’t miss out at Prince Waikiki, which capitalizes on its ocean vistas—and a view of the Ala Wai boat harbor.

This highly-rated hotel puts you right in the center of the Honolulu action, letting you easily jump around to other islands, explore the city’s top attractions, and soak up the atmosphere of Waikiki.

The Prince Waikiki also offers a sleek outdoor swimming area fitted with an infinity pool. Its rooms are quite luxurious, making this a great option for city-slicker types who want to stay in a more traditional resort-style hotel.

Book here

Alohilani Resort

Courtesy of Booking

As one of the world’s leading carbon-neutral stays, I’m a huge fan of Alohilani Resort for its sustainability efforts.

On a small island like Oahu and with limited resources available locally, those efforts are even more important. But even if you don’t care for eco-friendly stays, Alohilani should be on your radar for the best boutique hotels in Hawaii.

Just like the Prince Waikiki, you’re right in the middle of the action—but you might not notice at Alohilani. The hotel’s design is sleek and modern, while its shared spaces are effortlessly graceful thanks to its unique design. The rooms, in particular, offer plenty of natural light and bright accents—which makes for a refreshing stay, in my opinion.

Book here

Best boutique hotel on Kau’ai

Ko’a Kea

Courtesy of Booking

This intimate, beachside hotel provides a new take on Hawaiian resorts—no mini-skyscrapers or city views.

In fact, that small-scale approach is what has helped keep Ko’a Kea at the top of Hawaii’s best boutique hotels for close to a decade. Like Hotel Wailea, it’s seen shout-outs from major hospitality publications.

So, what can visitors expect at Ko’a Kea aside from beachy views and a quaint tropical stay? Staff go above and beyond to add Hawaiian culture to their various offers, including spa treatments, dining, shopping, and more.

On top of that, it offers a great location to experience natural wonders, from jungle tours to water activities.

Book here

Best boutique hotel on Hawai’i

At the Craters Edge

Courtesy of Booking

Welcome to one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to the best boutique hotels in Hawaii—At the Craters Edge.

Guests are fully immersed in the tropical rainforests of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which abuts the hotel’s grounds. That means that each bungalow feels like a private, romantic escape straight into an emerald paradise.

The rooms are designed to highlight the jungle with large terraces and verandas. With options like fireplaces and outdoor hot tubs, you might not want to leave the grounds.

While the hotel’s design isn’t necessarily the most modern, I enjoy its natural and dark-wood accents. They feel like an effortless extension of the local flora and fauna.

Book here

The Best Five-Star Amenities in Luxury Travel

There’s no better lodging option than a five-star hotel.

Unfortunately, they aren’t the most accessible when it comes to budgeting. Most travelers seek out five-star brands only when a major milestone is on the horizon.

That might be a honeymoon, an anniversary, or a professional achievement.

But avid travelers know the truth: Five-star hotels aren’t nearly as out-of-reach or exotic as they seem. Even in terms of pricing, they aren’t as uniformly expensive as many think.

For example, some five-star locations offer discounts during their offseason, free nights for stays of certain lengths, and deals for honeymooners.

In other words, five-star stays are more accessible than you think—and they’re well worth the extra money. Not only do they come with top-tier amenities like spas and on-site dining, but they usually offer a few pleasant surprises along the way.

If you’ve been on the fence about booking that five-star room, you might have a few questions—especially if luxury rentals aren’t usually your thing. Let’s demystify the magic of five-star amenities and experience. Here’s what you can expect.

What’s offered at a five-star hotel?

Five-star hotels offer more features than a four-star stay—who would have thought?

To earn that coveted five-star label, hotels must offer certain amenities, from pools to ensuite bathrooms. Here’s what else you can expect:

  • A near-perfect attention to detail and service
  • Sublime décor from a high-end designer
  • World-class chefs and handcrafted menus
  • Cutting-edge spas with treatment services

Most importantly—in my opinion—five-star hotels offer unprecedented service. Staff should provide impeccable, warm, and comprehensive support. Not only do they meet guest needs, but they also work to anticipate what those needs are.

Five-star amenities: what surprise features should guests look for?

Want to take a peek behind the curtain? Let’s count down the most extravagant and memorable five-star amenities from top hotels around the world.

I’m using the Tschuggen Grand Hotel in Arosa, Switzerland as my North Star. It’s by far the most impressive five-star experience I’ve had. I’m talking pampered-like-a-royal type of experience.

Whether staying at the Tschuggen or beyond, here’s the type of next-level, how-the-other-half-lives type of amenities you can expect.

A next-level kids club

Some five-star stays are adults-only. But those that are family-friendly usually offer a great kid’s club and comprehensive programming so that parents can take the day off. They employ qualified professionals who design activities to engage children and keep them busy.

But that’s just the basics.

At the Tschuggen Grand Hotel, childcare is focused on nature—even down to its playroom. The playroom is built with organic materials without any plastic products. There’s even a restaurant that’s specifically geared toward families, allowing them to unwind and eat without worrying about noise levels.

So, one of the best five-star amenities you can expect is five-star treatment for children, too.

A focus on sustainability

The vast majority of five-star hotels have some kind of official sustainability policy. Let’s head back to the Tschuggen for another example.

The Tschuggen Grand Hotel has spent time and resources to design its Moving Mountains program. This program (which extends to its other properties) explores the hotel’s sustainability efforts. It also lays out the hotel’s green initiatives, from environmental projects to community-building efforts around the world. The program even includes products from local artisans.

It’s not just enough to state that a hotel is dedicated to the environment. A great five-star hotel goes to great lengths to showcase its efforts and create an even better stay for guests.

Menus great and small—from pillows to firewood

The best five-star hotels offer highly rated onsite dining options with top-tier menus. But great eats aren’t the end-all of elite menus. Guests at five-star hotels are looking for choices beyond mealtime.

In other words, five-star amenities often come served up on menus.

At the Tschuggen Grand Hotel, I had the chance to peruse an elaborate pillow menu. From sizes to shapes to scents, staff are ready to deliver the perfect pillow.

I’ve also seen other hotels offer firewood menus (where wood-burning fireplaces are present), letting guests customize their sense of coziness. Some five-star hotels also go above and beyond for pets, offering pet menus that include human-grade food and pet-friendly spa treatments.

Five-star amenities = five-star choices.

Exclusive access

A truly elite five-star hotel should also offer a sense of exclusivity. This comes in all shapes and sizes—and is usually specific to a location and/or activity.

The Tschuggen Grand Hotel, for example, is renowned for its skiing offers. It’s a ski-in, ski-out hotel with its own private lift to the mountain. And that private lift is just the beginning.

Guests also have access to ski lockers located just outside the lift. In December, the Tschuggen even rents out the local mountain so that its guests have exclusive access.

Another example is the Villa Rockstar Recording Studio at Eden Rock — St Barths. Guests with musical inclinations have exclusive access to the studio.

They can hang out where names like Dr. Dre and Paul McCartney have recorded—or even use the equipment to lay down a track for themselves.

Awesome residencies

Above, I mentioned the importance of service at a five-star location. Not only are staff ready to handle almost any request, but some of them are specially trained for their job.

Sommeliers, for example, are a common find at high-end establishments. But that’s hardly the whole story. I’ve seen five-star hotels offer some seriously oddball in-house residences.

Looking for a tattoo? There’s an in-house artist who can help you at Hotel Erwin. What about fragrances? Yep, there are fragrance butlers employed across the world, including at Hotel Georgia.

The same is true for private bartenders, sleep concierges, and even soap concierges. The most unusual five-star residency I’ve seen is a ‘romance department’ at Las Ventanas al Paraiso, which is available to turn any couple’s retreat into an unforgettable honeymoon-caliber stay.