Did you know that this year is the 100th anniversary of Mother's Day? Did you even know that Mother's Day is less than two weeks away? Hmm... Well, someone's in a pickle, aren't they?
Lucky for you, The Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach is offering two Mother's Day appropriate packages which are valid through August 15th.
The first, the "Mom and Family Getaway," includes accommodations in two connecting rooms, a welcome gift for Mom and--just so she can be rid of the rug rats for a day--a day membership for two at AquaNuts, a Ritz Kids Club for children ages five to 12, as well as Coast, for 13- to 17-year-olds. Prices start at $489 per night.
If you're feeling really guilty for almost forgetting about Mom, shell out $1,129 per night for the "Pampering Mom Getaway," which includes ocean-front accommodations, 100 roses upon arrival, dinner for two in the hotel's restaurant, with a 100 wine credit and a 100-minute Elemis Aroma Spa Ocean Wrap spa treatment.
Now go book, and don't say we never do anything for you.
In the resort hotels and inns of South Florida, managers and owners are seeing a payoff from being more eco-friendly. That's according to this article in the Florida Sun-Sentinel that breaks down the trend with some specific examples.
We like that they quickly run through the half-hearted efforts, like putting a little placard up asking guests to reuse their towels, and quickly get to some practices that take real effort. We're still a little grossed out by the waterless urinals at The Colony Resort and Cabana Club, but we do like their idea of using recycled carpet squares instead of wall-to-wall. "When one square wears out, detach, recycle and replace it, without throwing out the whole rug." Owner and manager Jestena Boughton also reuses sheets that have gotten a rip, turning them into curtains or pillowcases.
In wealthy Palm Beach County, The Colony Hotel (above) and the Breakers Palm Beach have both earned a "Green Lodging Certification" from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. In downtown Miami, the Four Seasons and InterContinental have gotten the nod.
Kudos to Rick Hawkins, The Breakers' director of materials management, who puts it all in language that the Wall Street Journal editorial page readers can understand. "If we don't do things to save the planet, our lovely historic hotel is going to be a dive site one day. And everything we've done boosts profitability. The return on investment long-term is huge."
Time for more ritzy South Florida resorts. The all-suite-slash-condotel Resort at Singer Island has opened up with a fairly legit opening rate: From $215 a night all summer long, with a minimum two-night stay.
With at least 800 square feet of space per suite, this is pretty nice bang for the buck. You'll also find kitchen appliances and butler service at the ready. As is often the case at high-end properties, you'll have to pay for WiFi. But at least you can use it on the terrace attached to every suite.
Sounds nicer than some other North Palm Beach hotels we've heard about!
Last night, we accepted an invite to a little soiree hosted by The Ritz-Carlton. Apparently--and it is the first day of spring--the Ritz is "in bloom" with new deals and programs. As we swilled a malt beverage, we tried to sort the PR wheat from the chaff. Turns out, something interesting was afoot.
It seems The Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach really did spend $100k per room to revamp the whole property. It reopened 10 days ago, with a whole new lease on life and wide-open ocean views. The new gimmick is a "resort turndown," which is basically a total change in the atmosphere of the hotel every evening. (The hotel workers must love it.) A big fire pit sets the beach-side bonfire vibe, music starts pumping and the cocktails--ideally--get flowing. The new restaurant also encourages party time with a communal table and a big wine cellar. By the time you get your hung-over self out of bed, the hotel is dressed for the morning.
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by jennm
