Andaz Prague

12 June 2022HotelAdvisor Leave a comment

Hotelchain: Hyatt
Location: Prague – Czech Republic
Classification: 5 star hotel
Official website: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/czech/andaz-prague/prgaz?src=corp_lclb_gmb_seo_prgaz

I have traveled all over the world and have found Andaz Prague to be one of the most exquisite luxury lifestyle hotels in my experience. Andaz Prague is a brand new luxurious 5 star hotel which is located in the iconic Sugar Palace. The hotel is well located on Senovázné Square, right in the heart of the gorgeous historical center of Prague. It’s a very convenient location. I walked around the city and most attractions are reachable within walking distance. Make sure to check out Wensceslas Square, the Old Town Square and, probably my favorite: Charles Bridge… offering stunning panoramic views over the surrounding areas of Prague.

I was welcomed by a very courteous bellman who escorted me into the beautiful lobby. I immediately realized why this will be one of the top 5 star hotels in Prague. It is actually the place to meet and mingle with your fellow travelers. The lobby is large and filled with cozy corners where you can relax, unwind and have wonderful chats. Further, I was greeted by an exceptionally great front desk staff. The kind of staff that make you feel at ease as soon as you enter the hotel. Check-in went smoothly and the staff were just extremely professional, going to extraordinary lengths to make everybody’s stay pleasurable. They even remember your names. Oh, and the complimentary welcome drink is a bonus and always a good start 😊

All the guestrooms at Andaz Prague are unique and very tastefully decorated. It’s all about the details and to be honest, the bed was one the best I have ever experienced! What I appreciated about my room were the small funny elements such as the 2 golden hands holding the drapes open, the giant lion head above the bed, the small golden guy hanging on the mirror in the bathroom… Those small things made me feel that I’m not just in a regular hotel. Andaz Prague has a personality which I liked very much. Other amenities I appreciated were the designer elements in the room and not to forget: a complimentary mini bar with local soft drinks and snacks. The room was modern, opulent and charming at the same time, perfectly appointed and completely functional. I loved the comfy lounger, large marble table and 2 comfy chairs. I had a few requests and everyone, from housekeeping to room service or the food and beverage servers, makes it their goal to treat all their guests like VIPs.

The bathroom – again, designed in an amazing way – had an oversized shower, large sink and separate toilet. Local toiletries by Krása were amazing!

It would be very difficult to get bored at Andaz Prague. For example, the Spa by Klara Rott is the place to relax and unwind after a day in wonderful Prague. For me, it is one of the highlights at Andaz Prague. The staff is so kind. I thoroughly enjoyed the relaxing Ritual with herbal pouches. This 80 minute experience was just out of this world. I lately experienced some stress and this pressure massage with heated massage pouches filled with Czech herbs was exactly what I needed. The treatment comes also with a relaxing massage with detoxifying oil. The therapist was extremely friendly and knowledgeable. A great experience from start to finish.

There’s also a sauna and steam room which guests can use at no additional cost. If you are into working out, a nice fitness facility with the newest equipment can be used 24/24. I had a great work out and relaxed in the hammam afterwards. I felt reborn and was hungry …

Luckily Andaz Prague has a great restaurant named ZEM, an avant-garde Czech bistro. The menu is a creative combination of local Czech products with some Japanese touches. The 3-course dinner we had was delicious! I always try the local dishes and each bite was divine. I started with a potatoes and gheerkins salad… and it wasn’t just a salad! It was elegantly presented and came with onions, chives and crème fraiche. The Wagyu Beef (probably the best beef in the world) was to die for! The combination with tataki, ponzu onions, avocado and garlic chips was excellent. There is always room for dessert and the apple strudel with bourbon vanilla cream is probably the most special designed appel strudel I have ever seen.

You’d expect a high end atmosphere, but that was not the case. We could be ourselves and that was awesome. I must also highlight the staff (again!). Each person that served us was kind, professional and efficient. Nothing was asked for too much.

ZEM is also the place where they serve breakfast. The breakfast selection and service were amazing and they had my favorite fruit, muffins and excellent coffee. The large buffet was leisurely and good with great hot food choices. All in all, an excellent breakfast that set us up for the day.

MEZ is where you need to be for a delicious cocktails. This beautifully designed bar is located next to the lobby area. I found the drinks reasonably priced and again, service was top notch!

Andaz Prague is one the best (if not THE best) five star hotels in Prague. It is brand new and is a destination hotel for those travelers that are looking for a truly wonderful luxury experience! Andaz Prague and its staff exceeds customer service in every possible way! I felt at home and I can’t wait to stay here again!

Villa Dubrovnik

4 June 2022HotelAdvisor Leave a comment

Hotelchain: Mytha Hotels
Location: Dubrovnik – Croatia
Classification: 5 star hotel
Official website: villa-dubrovnik.hr/en

Villa Dubrovnik is one of the exclusive hotels in Dubrovnik and I couldn’t wait to explore this jewel. Making part of the Leading Hotels of the world, the hotel has a high standard. Villa Dubrovnik has ‘only’ 56 rooms and truly has a boutique feeling. The staff will do their upmost best to make you feel at home from the moment you enter this hidden gem. This ultra luxurious hotel is not just a ‘hotel’, to me it is a destination… Let me tell you why…

First of all, Villa Dubrovnik has a prime location. Sveti Jakov Beach, one of the most picturesque bathing spots in the region is only a few steps away. The (beautiful!) old town of Dubrovnik itself is only a 15 minute walk away. We walked to the city center in no time!

You reach the entrance of the hotel by taking an elevator. Upon arrival we were greeted warmly and we were really overwhelmed by the design of the lobby area. Very tastefully and attention to details. We couldn’t have felt more welcomed by the staff. The check-in staff were absolutely excellent, they could not have been more friendly and helpful. Check-in was seamless with zero wait.

The Deluxe room we stayed in was absolutely breathtaking. It was spacious and decorated with style. The quality of furnishing was excellent. Prior to our arrival, I was asked if I have any special pillow/mattress preferences. I do prefer a soft mattress and informed them. Upon arrival I immediately noticed that everything I requested has been organized according to my wishes. Very impressive. The best thing about the room was the view. Each room at Villa Dubrovnik has a prime sea view.

Bathroom had double sinks and a wonderful bath tub / shower combination. La Bottega toiletries are offered. They are among the best toiletries I have experienced. They smell amazing!

A visit to the Villa Spa is a must do when staying at Villa Dubrovnik! The indoor pool area is stunning with one of the nicest swimming pool I have seen in Croatia. The doors can be opened so it actually feels as a semi open pool area. Sun loungers are of a very good quality and they provide bar sevice. Top service! There’s a separate tanning area where you can enjoy sunshine all day long. I loved the fact that the pool is open at 8AM as I love to swim before having breakfast.

The spa itself is the place to relax after a day of excursions or quite simply because you want to. I let myself enjoy a pure moment of well-being and relaxation. I enjoyed one of their signature deep tissue treatments here. The treatment began with a more traditional relaxation massage. After my muscles were warmed up, my (excellent!) therapist began to work deep into my problem areas (my neck!). The therapist Stella really did an excellent job. I felt relaxed afterwards and my neck felt really good.

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Villa Dubrovnik offers several dining options, from lounges to fine dining restaurants… they have it all! Each night, we had dinner at Restaurant Pjerin where head chef Giuseppe Somma serves Mediterranean dishes which are to die for. The restaurant ifself is beautifully designed and service was top notch! The terrace overlooks the old town of Dubrovnik. This Michelin recommended restaurant only offers the best ingredients. From the prawn carpaccio to the most delicious desserts. The food really is of a great quality. You won’t be disappointed if you book a table here!

Al Fresco bar Giardino is opened in the afternoon from 1pm – 4pm and is a perfect place for a lunch in style. Overlooking the beach, it has a relaxed atmosphere. This bistro has an outdoor grill. You can actually watch your orders to be grilled right in front of you.

At night, make sure to check out Prosciutto & Wine Bar, a perfect sundowner. This rooftop bar offers splendid views over the surrounding areas. I loved it. Sitting here while enjoying some delicious cocktials, watching the sun going down is a must do! Even if you’re not a guest of the hotel, you’re more than welcome to go up and have a wonderful evening. We enjoyed the sunset from up here more than in the old town.

Last, but not least, there’s the Library Lounge where guests can relax and unwind all day long while enjoying a drink. Whether you are reading a book or a browsing the internet on your tablet, it is great to hang out here. By the way, each spot of Villa Dubrovik is clean. I should highlight the cleanness of the entire hotel. If you told me that the hotel opened just a few days ago, I would have believed it!

Breakfast is served at Restaurant Pjerin and as you could expect from such a luxurious hotel, the quality of the food was excellent as was the service! The à la carte breakfast is a treat. It’s one of the most exclusive breakfasts I have been experienced anywhere. Again, service was top notch! Our server – Denis – is one of the best! He’s a true professional!

Villa Dubrovnik is not just a hotel, staying here truly is an experience. If offers a perfect mix of elegance, history, spacious rooms, delicious food and the most attentive staff. No wonder Villa Dubrovnik is the most awarded Croatian boutique hotel. With its breathtaking position on the cliffs right at the sea and the most luxurious rooms all with stunning sea views, Villa Dubrovnik is one of a kind.

La Butte aux Bois

2 June 2022HotelAdvisor Leave a comment

Hotelchain: Relais & Châteaux
Location: Lanaken – Belgium
Classification: 5 star Superior Hotel – La Source Restaurant (Michelin **)
Official website: labutteauxbois.be

One of the best five star hotels in Belgium, la Butte aux Bois is nestled in peaceful Lanaken. As you approach this unique hotel, you’ll hear the sounds of birds and notice the beautiful surroundings. The hotel used to be a great manor house built in 1924. When the Bullens family moved into the manor, they opened a restaurant in 1986. A few years later, they opened the hotel. La Butte aux Bois has undergone several renovations and is one of the very best hotels in Belgium and a member of Relais & Châteaux. 2 years ago, a completely new building has been added with 20 gorgeous rooms and a brand new wellness center, La Forêt.

As soon as you enter the hotel, you’ll feel a sense of luxury and details. The contemporary décor made a great first impression. There are designer elements all over the place. The wooden details match perfectly with the dark designer floors. The young woman behind the front desk made us feel very welcome and offered a glass of sparkling wine, always a good start! I knew this was going to be a great experience, this place truly has character. Sometimes you immediately feel at home and at La Butte aux Bois they welcome you with a great smile.

We stayed in a brand new La Forêt room and we were very pleased when we entered the room. Again, the wood and designer elements are just gorgeous. The room had a great size and was built and decorated with eye for detail. The very comfortable couch was perfect for relaxing. I hate to lay on bed when reading a book, so I did appreciate the large couch. On top of that, each La Forêt room has amazing views over the forest. This factor really did make me feel more comfortable and added to the sense of prestige. Everything in the room is incredibly well finished from the furnishings to the art, styling and décor. The bed was very comfortable which enabled an excellent night’s sleep and added this, top of the line amenities are provided and immaculate cleanliness.

The comfortable and modern bathroom had a tub and separate rainshower. They provide La Forêt toiletries and trust me, they do smell amazing! I must highlight the soft towels!

La Butte aux Bois has 2 restaurants: Le Bistrot and La Source. We experienced La Source, a gastronomic Michelin rated (**) restaurant and we were blown away by the food. We thoroughly enjoyed our 8 course meal with wine pairing. Do believe me, I have been to many restaurants and I can honestly say that La Source is one of the best places I have ever been. Head chef Ralf Berendsen is an artist. He knows how to combine fresh ingredients. It seemed as if the courses would never stop coming. My favorite courses were the monkfish which came with Iberico Belotta, artichoke, basil and foie gras. Also, the Anjou pigeon was just delicious. Every course we had the most magnificent flavors you could possibly imagine. The pictures will speak for themselves.

The service was almost unmatched and they really made you feel warm and cozy. Our La Source experience was the exhibition of art in food preparation and presentation. I loved every second of being there.

The next morning, I visited the spa area. I could spend here a whole day. Did you know that you can even visit the spa for a day without actually staying at the hotel. That is right, they have a day spa with a luxurious lounge with fruit and drinks. The relaxation area is absolutely gorgeous and so relaxing. They do offer the most magnificent spa treatments in the most comfortable spa suites. On top of that, the large indoor swimming pool is large enough for actually lap swimming and I’ve found the water temperature to be pretty pleasant. Next to the pool, guests can use a large Finnish sauna, infrared sauna and a large steamroom. The outdoor terrace is perfect for tanning. The outdoor jacuzzi is a treat. I spent a lot of time in there 😊

Breakfast is served at Le Bistrot and as soon as you enter the restaurant they offer a delicious smoothy and fresh orange juice. The buffet-style breakfast offers a large selection of both hot and cold items and all products are of a good quality. Several à la carte options are available. Sparkling wine is offered to the guests as well. Very nice!

La Butte aux Bois is a one of the few five star superior hotels in Belgium and I can honestly say I was blown away here. Everything they do, they’ll do it in style. Without being over the top. I could be me and again, I enjoyed each moment in this jewel. Highly recommended for a luxurious getaway!

Aquarein – Grobbendonk

2 June 2022HotelAdvisor Leave a comment

Awarded as the most beautiful sauna complex of Belgium and located in a very peaceful area of Grobbendonk, Aquarein is THE place to relax and unwind. After all the hectic times we live in, all we have to do is sometimes think about our mental and physical health and treat ourselves to a relaxing me-time. That’s exactly why I love Aquarein.

The first thing I really appreciate is the professional and kind welcome. Each time, we are welcomed with a smile and everything is explained in a very kind way. That’s how it should it. As soon as I enter I feel at ease and you immediately realize you are in a professional wellness center. Each guest receives a locker key which is also used for on site payments. That’s great as you do not have to carry any credit card or cash. Smartphone are also not allowed. Isn’t that great? Of course, you’re not allowed to take any pictures but it’s also super nice to be offline for a period of time. No e-mails, no messages, etc.

The locker rooms are very well maintained as is the rest of the complex. There’s no need to take your own towels or bathrobes as you can rent them on site.

The wellness complex itself is huge. It has an indoor/outdoor pool, a large jacuzzi, hammam, relaxing areas and several saunas. What I really appreciate is the fact that there’s hangers all over the place. While this is a nude facility, I like to wear my towel and bathrobe. When I want to enjoy a sauna session, I take my bathrobe off, hang it next to sauna and I’m ready to relax. During the day they offer several sauna sessions which are not to be missed.

The outdoor area is beautiful. There’s a beautiful garden with comfortable loungers and a large outdoor pool. There’s another jacuzzi as well which is the perfect spot to enjoy the garden views. Several other saunas are here too for you to enjoy. Make sure to also enjoy their bio sauna which uses several color schemes.

No wellness day without a spa treatment. Aqaurein has several therapists who are each professional and kind. We were escorted to the treatment room and totally enjoyed the experience. They definitely know how to make you feel relaxed and at ease. Also, each request was taken care of. The relaxing music made the experience even more special. Make sure to book upfront as a lot of guests book massages. If you are more into facials, they offer them as well.

Aquarein also has an on-site restaurant which we made use of. The Aperol Spritz which we ordered was actually one of the best we have ever had. Also, the small tapas were delicious. Service was splendid and we didn’t have to wait too long for our food and drinks. Excellent!

If you are looking for a relaxing me-time with just yourself or with your partner, mother, etc. look no further and treat yourself a visit to Aquarein. You won’t be disappointed!