Roundup: My Favorite Residences Around the World

Sometimes a vacation calls for a bit more room. That’s where residences come in. With a residence, you get the best of both worlds: tons of space, plus the service and amenities of a five-star hotel. You’re on vacation, after all, and sometimes you want extra space to unwind. Plus, residences are especially great for families or group trips.

Below, I’ve rounded up 10 of my favorite residences, some of which are part of a traditional hotel, others of which are stand-alone getaways operated by Fora's partners. Regardless, each property is expansive, beautifully designed and equipped with an impressive array of amenities to ensure your stay with a larger group is nothing short of excellent. 

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Inspiration: Wellness, Pets & Far-Flung Escapes: August Openings & Offers

We’ve officially made it to August. Some may dub it the end of summer; for others, it’s the height of the season. However you interpret it, though, it’s the perfect month for a last-minute getaway — or for planning your next big adventure. 

Below, there are new openings and special offers that make either travel mode all the more enticing. Read on for the details. Then, reach out to plan and book your VIP getaway today.

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Roundup: 8 Unexpected Honeymoon Destinations

You might not instantly think of Japan when considering honeymoon destinations, but that’s where you’re about to be seriously impressed. With thousands of years of deep commitment to hospitality embedded into Japanese culture, you can prepare for an entirely different experience of luxury.

To start, consider staying in a ryokan, or a traditional Japanese inn, like Kayotei, located in the small hot springs village of Yamanaka in the Ishikawa prefecture. The entire property is meant to feel like the home of a friend, with traditional tatami mats and the property’s 10 suite rooms arranged in the traditional sukiya style of a tea ceremony pavilion. 

If you’re looking for more of an ocean vibe, check out Sankara Resort on Yakushima Island, which focuses on true relaxation, simplicity and serenity between ocean and rainforest. Its in-house restaurants feature locally caught seafood, and every stay at Sankara begins with a consultation with a butler about your stay to make sure you’re getting the very best of what your visit has to offer. It’s perfect for newlyweds.

Looking to get even more out of your travel to Japan? Also check out our guide to where to stay in Tokyo.

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An Insider's Guide to Where to Eat, Stay & Play in Palm Springs

During Hollywood’s Golden Era in decades past, Palm Springs’s proximity to Los Angeles (as well as San Diego and Orange County) made it a popular spot for Hollywood icons who wanted to escape their fame-induced scrutiny. Gossip columnists could not pursue the stars there (the journalists could only expense travel within 100 miles of LA; Palm Springs is just over the limit). People also flocked to the desert oasis for health reasons (that dry desert air can be healing), and the city became known as a wellness destination. 

Today, Palm Springs retains the glamor of Hollywood — with a modern twist. Apart from being the site of Coachella, the boho, star-studded music festival each April, the city is a veritable destination in and of itself. Charming boutiques and restaurants line its sunny streets. Mid-century modern architecture lends it a retro-chic vibe. It’s easy to stay active here: there are ample hiking and biking trails, plus golf courses and tennis courts. 

You’ll never run out of activities to enjoy in this delightful escape of a town. Below, I’ve outlined a few favorite things to do, plus places to eat and stay. There is so much more Palms Springs has to offer, and when you connect with me, I’ll curate a trip specific to your preferences. In the meantime, read on for a little travel inspiration for a dreamy desert getaway.

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Hotel Spotlight: Warren Street Hotel (one of Manhattan’s Most Stylish Hotels Yet)

There’s something magical about Firmdale Hotels. The brand’s co-owner and co-founder Kit Kemp imbues each of Firmdale’s 11 properties across London and New York with a tasteful vibrancy. And New York’s Warren Street Hotel, a TriBeCa gem with a glistening blue façade, is her latest masterpiece.

Kit’s approach is rooted in collaborations — with artisans, craftspeople, designers, bespoke brands. As a result, each of her hotels is unique, with a distinct personality and a strong sense of place. This is especially true of Warren Street.

Read on to learn more about what makes Warren Street Hotel so special. Then, connect with me to plan and book your stay. 

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Hotel Spotlight: Auberge’s Hotel Jerome

Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection is an Aspen institution. The 130-year-old historic hotel — part of National Register of Historic Places, no less — draws savvy travelers and in-the-know locals alike. Its original owner, Jerome B. Wheeler, was a business mogul, with a hand in banking, mining and railroads. He opened the hotel in 1889. Today, it’s difficult to think of a more perfect (or more stylish) homebase from which to explore the town and its stunning natural surroundings. Auberge, as usual, knocks it out of the park.

The location itself is prime: the hotel is found right on Main Street, in the bustling downtown Aspen, within walking distance of charming restaurants and boutiques. From its old-west design to its food to its wellness and experience offerings, Hotel Jerome never fails to blow visitors away. 

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Roundup: 12 Incredible Wellness Retreats to Visit

Let's face it: we could all use a little self care. And while the concept of "wellness" means something different to everyone — be it a fitness bootcamp or a beachside massage (we don’t judge) — a wellness retreat for your next vacation is never a bad idea.

But where to choose? From Malibu to Mexico, there are a number of extra-special resorts that serve up wellness programs on a silver platter. We're talking glorious surroundings, luxurious accommodations and five-star service, coupled with world-class fitness programs, expert-led classes and once-in-a-lifetime spa treatments.

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Roundup: 11 Best Pet-Friendly Hotels

I love my pets; my fur babies are such an intrinsic part of our lives that, chances are, you fall asleep with a snuggle bug tucked by your feet, and wake up with them stealing your pillow. For many, the idea of traveling without their pets is too gut-wrenching to bare. Thankfully, there are a slew of pet-friendly hotels that welcome dogs, cats and even feathery friends.

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Roundup: 8 Best Hotel Swimming Pools

Whether you’re checking into a boutique hotel in Santorini or indulging in a luxury stay in New York City, sometimes the best part of a hotel is its swimming pool. Today’s hotel pools run the gamut from indoor pools to outdoor pools, infinity pools to private plunge pools. Some hotel pools mirror their surroundings, designed as an extension of the natural landscape. Other hotel pools are all about those panoramic vistas and sunset views. Some hotels offer guest rooms with whirlpools, outdoor swimming pools or hot tubs, while other hotel pools are so over-the-top, they bring everything you could want (a swim-up bar, cabanas, daybeds, cocktails and television screens) to you poolside. Be it an adult-only pool in Las Vegas or a romantic pool carved into a cliffside in Greece, these are the best hotel pools in the world.

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