I’m fancy & I love it.
I used to be a budget traveler. I thought that made my experiences more “real” and “down-to-earth”. That I wouldn’t get a feel for the local life if I didn’t stay in low-key accommodations or 3 Star hotels. I figured the money I would save on lodging would give me more spending power in other areas, like museums, tours, restaurants and shopping.
It was around this time that I started working as a Tour Manager for a “4 Star” tour operator. My job was to handle all of the logistics that came with moving a busload of 40+ retired and VERY needy Americans around countries like Germany, Italy, Poland and Cuba. These trips lasted up to 12 days. 12 DAYS. THAT’S SO MANY DAYS.
I played hostess, babysitter, therapist, negotiator, historian…the list was freaking endless. I went to some incredible places and met magnificent people, but the reality was it was ABSOLUTELY EXHAUSTING and by the end of each trip I was a puddle of agitated goo made up largely of sugar, carbs, alcohol and pure irritation.
We overnighted mostly in what one would describe as “charming” accommodations.
Pro tip. Generally, “charming” is simply an overcompensation for “budget”.
And since budget was the only way I had traveled until then, the amenities (or lack thereof) never bothered me. In fact, I didn’t even notice them. I didn’t notice that I wasn’t sleeping through the night because the bed wasn’t quality. I justified the lack of running hot water as an “authentic experience”. When breakfast was pithy, it was okay because “the staff was sweet” and that more than made up for the non-lactose milk powder I was forced to ingest with my crappy coffee because almond milk wasn’t an option. (I know I sound like a snob but hear me out.)
And then I stayed at the Westin.
Ladies & gentlemen, you can argue budget accommodations ALL YOU WANT. Go ahead and try, reply to this post by email with your fact-laden thesis about why I should stay at an Airbnb over Kempinski.
The fact of the matter is, a 5 Star hotel is a 5 Star hotel FOR A REASON.
Massive, fluffy pillows, perfectly white sheets and artfully formed-to-your-body mattresses mean you’ll sleep better. [The Westin Store does not lead a purposeless existence.] Better sleep means more energy and vibrance to devour every nook and cranny of the location you’re exploring.
Abundant breakfast buffets with mimosas included in the price not only nourish you, but also evoke a high level of self-worth and you deserve to start your day this way. I start every single day of my life with fruit, and there is a clear distinction between the defrosted bowl of berries I receive at a budget hotel versus the local fruit basket I’m given at a luxury one.
But wait! There’s more!
I don’t know about you, but I appreciate:
A concierge who can get me anything from my favorite razor to the destination’s top-rated private guide.
A plate of sweets alongside a Welcome Back letter from the General Manager when I return to the same hotel.
Amazing views.
High quality bath products.
A nice gym with a sauna.
A fancy hotel bar with fancy people.
A FABULOUS ROBE.
Private transfers.
Everything I need taken care of so I can completely let go and immerse myself in my chosen destination.
I especially appreciate knowing that the money spent will undoubtedly be worth it. It’s a fact: I enjoy myself a whole lot better when I’m spending nights in a place that makes me happy.
What do you want? Chocolate for breakfast? A privately-guided tour of local ruins? A facial treatment at 2:00pm? Transportation to and from the airport in a Bentley? Sure, you can arrange this yourself. BUT WHY. When, at the Four Seasons, all you have to do is ASK?
This is why I choose high end properties for my retreats. I want you to have a 5 Star Experience in a fabulous destination. I want you to feel pampered and important. I don’t want you to think about ONE logistic after you book that flight. And I definitely want you to fall asleep in a comfy AF bed that feels like a Cumulus cloud and wake up feeling refreshed for an energizing yoga class to kick off your day.
Expect more fancy fluff in 2023. If this is your vibe, great. If not, I can happily plan your personal retreat in the accommodations of your choice. Just let me know where and when and we can make it happen!
With love,
Bethany
