More Than Just a Place to Sleep: Hotels That Offer More Than a Bed

Accommodations, Expert Advice

Each hotel has something different to offer you on your vacation. Whether that focuses on beaches, shopping, or trying new things, each hotel can cater to your needs. 

By Nicole Partis

Vacations should be relaxing and that is why picking the right hotel is important to ensure that your time is well-spent. When you want a relaxing stay, finding the perfect place to suit your needs is so important. A good hotel should be able to offer you more than just a place to sleep, so here is a list of great hotels which turn any vacation into a luxurious stay. Experiences you may enjoy including all things from dining amongst the stars, to pool side service, and even booked tickets for lift tickets with champagne.

Hotel Del Coronado, San Diego

Ever since it opened in 1888, Southern California’s Hotel Del Coronado has attracted a who’s-who of international movers and shakers, ranging from U.S. presidents and royalty to movie stars. Affectionately known as The Del, this hotel is a rare surviving example of an American architectural genre, the wooden Victorian beach resort, and has been a popular location site for a number of films. Located on the charming isle of Coronado five miles from downtown San Diego, Hotel Del Coronado has had extensive upgrades over the years but still retains its iconic architectural appeal — once likened to a cross between an ornate wedding cake and a well-trimmed ship — with candlelit ballrooms, lush gardens and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Today, guests will find polished rooms featuring all the amenities one would expect at a luxury resort along with a spa, outdoor pools and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The expansive property includes multiple bars and restaurants, including an ocean-view eatery and open-air pizzeria.

Hotel Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite Park

Your Yosemite adventure awaits you at the Hotel Ahwahnee Resort. This historical resort found within the sprawling Yosemite Park is a hidden gem. The hotel is undergoing renovation for some of the historic buildings as well as refurbishing of the kitchen but scheduled to reopening in April. Known for its especially stunning interior design and unique architecture, The Ahwahnee is meant to shine light on the natural surroundings, with great view of the Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and Glacier Point which can be seen throughout different points of the resort. Local artisans are featured at the gift shop connected to the hotel to highlight and engage with the members of the surrounding community. Other amazing features include a heated outdoor swimming pool, a comfortable bar, candy shop, and the traditional dining room including an impressive collection of domestic and imported wines to choose from.

Hotels with amenities

Plaza Hotel, New York City

The Plaza Hotel in New York City has a guest list full of Broadway legends and Hollywood movie stars. Having popular filming locations, movies such as Home Alone 2, Sleepless in Seattle, Bride Wars, and even The Great Gatsby have been filmed here showing off the hotels ambiance and beautiful setting. This landmark of a hotel offers a picturesque view of New York City overlooking Central Park. This hotel’s unmatched guest services include Guerlain spa, babysitting, concierge and even pet amenities when needed. Not to mention, there are amazing dining options from afternoon tea at The Palm Court to having drinks at The Champagne Bar, this hotel has New York’s top picks making it “one of America’s most celebrated hotels.”

Banff Springs Hotel, Alberta, Canada

Located in the small town of Banff, Alberta, this world-class mountain resort is often referred to ats “the castle in the Rockies” as the rooms are tucked away within the quiet corners of the castle with the sweeping Alberta mountains as the perfect backdrop. This hotel can be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it has been providing legendary hospitality to guests with their cozy rooms tucked away in the castle. Throughout your stay, be ready to use the guest services to your liking including fitness and aquatic center, childcare, gift shops, and special packages depending on your needs. Whatever your heart desires, from a romantic getaway to a sports trip, the hotel’s vacation package can supply everything from champagne, to lift tickets to make your stay as easy as possible.

Hotels with more to offer

San Francisco Sheraton Palace

Feel the wealth of the Glided Age not only through their historic architecture, but through their famous restaurants, professional concierge and valet parking, scenic city views, and so much more. With the five-star services in this downtown San Francisco hotel, as part of the Luxury Collection, it shows you feel the grand resort it truly is. Enjoy their guest fitness center, in-room dining services and many great amenities that this iconic, historic hotel features. Another key point is the amazing city surrounding this hotel which begs you to step out into downtown including Union Square, cable cars, and Chinatown which is only a few blocks away.

Singapore Raffles

Just finishing up a new restoration, Singapore Raffles is happy to welcome their guests into a legendary getaway resort. Holding the true birthplace of the iconic drink, the Singapore Sling, the Long Bar is located at the Raffles hotel in Singapore. This two-story Long Bar has inspired earthy décor with lush greenery works to transport the public to a tropical plantation based on Malayan life in the 1920s. Not only this, but the hotel offers other great restaurants, boutiques, courtyards, and other features to add to your graceful experience.  Many enjoy the complimentary breakfast with its grand daily buffet as well as the complimentary Limousine Airport Transfer when you book a suite.

Le Meurice Hotel, Paris

Wake up in the heart of the city of beautiful Paris. History combines here with art and love making Le Meurice a living work of art overlooking the landmarks of the city. With flawless service, the hotel works to blend traditional style with a more luxurious modern take including their flair of Parisian history. They have tons of newly renovated rooms to choose from which show off the amazing features Paris holds. Having said that, it is steps away from numerous shops, the Louvre Museum, and the unique city streets to explore. Grab afternoon tea becomes a deliciously unforgettable experience with awe-inspiring chefs held in a room full of golden light. At Le Meurice, there is always something to enjoy, even if it is just the space alone.

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