Uncategorized | Katherine Gould, DS

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Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Thursday, March 28th, 2013

I chose Kiawah Island, South Carolina for my family’s spring break trip this year. This gorgeous barrier island is the perfect destination for families in search of a low key, yet fun-filled place to vacation. Located just a few miles from historic Charleston, it offers a wide array of lodging and activities to fit all budgets and interests.

Enjoying an early spring beach day on Kiawah Island, South Carolina

At The Ocean Course

Kiawah is best known for its pristine stretch of Atlantic Ocean beach, world class golf and tennis, endless biking trails, great dining and shopping, and an untouched beauty hard to find in many other East Coast beach locations. The island’s dedication to preservation is apparent everywhere. A huge array of wildlife, marine life, flora and fauna blankets this small piece of paradise. I felt as if my children were experiencing an outdoor classroom every time we stepped outside.

One of Kiawah Island's many lagoons

Biking is a favorite activity on Kiawah

The first part of our stay was spent in an oceanfront condo, which we thoroughly enjoyed. I very much liked the extra living space, and having access to a kitchen and washer/dryer when traveling with children was a huge bonus.

My oceanfront condo

View from my oceanfront condo

We next checked into The Sanctuary, a magnificent Virtuoso property situated directly on the ocean. This hotel exudes southern elegance yet is relaxed and welcoming. From the moment I stepped into the lobby, I felt as if I’d been transported to a Low Country estate from another place and time. Every aspect of this hotel was well planned and executed, and the service was utterly flawless.

Cozy lobby area at The Sanctuary

Deluxe Oceanview King at The Sanctuary

My view at The Sanctuary

The list of awards and accolades The Sanctuary has received since its opening in 2004 is extensive. Most notably it has been awarded the Forbes Five Star and the AAA Five Diamond Awards. Kiawah further secured its place as a top ranking US travel destination after hosting the 2012 PGA Championship. Visitors flock here to experience some of the best golf in the country.

Outdoor lawn at The Sanctuary

Poolside dining at The Sanctuary

A visit to Kiawah Island isn’t complete without a day trip to experience Charleston and all of its incredible history, architecture, dining and shopping. The drive is easy and quick, and my children are still talking about the scenery in one stretch where massive live oaks draped in Spanish moss flanked a two lane road for miles. Truly beautiful!

Visiting the Angel Oak on route to Charleston

Day trip to Charleston, South Carolina

Virtuoso amenities at The Sanctuary include daily buffet breakfast for two, a $100 resort credit and a room upgrade if available. If you’re more interested in renting a private home or condo, I can help you sort through the options to find the right accommodation and location for your needs. The island is quite large and each area has a different feel.

Tags: Charleston, Kiawah, Kiawah Island, South Carolina, The Sanctuary, The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island
Posted in Family Travel, US Travel, Uncategorized | Comments Off

Dorado Beach, A Ritz Carlton Reserve: Puerto Rico

Thursday, March 7th, 2013

I recently had the privilege of visiting Ritz Carlton’s newest Reserve property, which is located on 1400 stunning acres on the northern coast of Puerto Rico. Dorado Beach is only the second Reserve property to open in the world, and it has quickly become one of the Caribbean’s most exclusive and luxurious new hideouts.

Dorado Beach, A Ritz Carlton Reserve

Entrance at Dorado Beach, A Ritz Carlton Reserve

It’s difficult to earn the title “Reserve,” and these resorts have a very different feel from a typical Ritz Carlton hotel. To qualify, a Reserve property must feature low-rise buildings, be no larger than 150 rooms, and provide a two to one staff-to-guest ratio. Additionally, the staff undergoes extensive training to ensure guests receive the highest level of personalized attention.

Pool staff at Dorado Beach, A Ritz Carlton Reserve

Relaxing by the pool

As a result, Dorado Beach has a unique feel to it that I haven’t encountered anywhere else in the Caribbean. No detail was forgotten, and the rooms, grounds and public spaces are unbelievably gorgeous. Thousands of mature palm trees (some of them over 100 years old, dating back to the time when the land was a coconut plantation) surround the buildings, providing natural shade and the feeling of having escaped to a mogul’s personal estate.

Paradise at Dorado Beach, A Ritz Carlton Reserve

I stayed in a Reserve Plunge Room, which sat directly on an unspoiled beach of golden sand and offered every creature comfort imaginable. The highlight was the spacious plunge pool with uninterrupted views of the water and direct beach access, but I also adored the beautiful outdoor garden shower area.

Reserve Plunge King

Outdoor shower of Reserve Plunge King

Spa Botanico was nothing short of jaw-dropping. Guests approach the hacienda-style building with no idea that a one-of-a-kind “Portal Apothecary” will greet them upon entering its doors. The area is filled with local botanicals, many of which hang in unique, chandelier-type arrangements I’ve not seen anywhere else in the world. The spa is comprised of five acres, and to say it’s a memorable experience is an understatement. No expense was spared in the design of this place!

Approaching Spa Botanico

Apothecary Portal at Spa Botanico

Apothecary Portal at Spa Botanica

The food at Dorado Beach has a strong emphasis on local culture and ingredients. A classic example is the story of the head chef of Mi Casa, who spent weeks checking out roadside stands around the island in search of inspiration for the pork cooked there. I sampled some of the most amazing dishes during my stay.

Memorable dessert

Positivo Sand Bar, a great spot for lunch or dinner

Dorado Beach will appeal to couples and families alike. I toured the Jean-Michel Cousteau’s “Ambassadors of the Environment” facility and was duly impressed. The staff of trained naturalists lead excursions which will show guests Puerto Rico’s best natural offerings and leave everyone with a deeper understanding of the rich history, culture and environment of this often over-looked island.

Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment

Enjoying my last day at Dorado Beach, A Ritz Carlton Reserve

It’s no surprise that Dorado Beach is a Virtuoso affiliated property, and my clients receive the following amenities when I make their arrangements: a room upgrade if available at time of check-in, daily full breakfast for two per room in Mi Casa by Jose Andres, and a $150 resort credit.

Tags: Dorado Beach, Puerto Rico, Ritz Carlton, Ritz Carlton Reserve, Virtuoso
Posted in Caribbean Travel, Puerto Rico, Uncategorized | Comments Off

New York City

Saturday, February 2nd, 2013

I recently traveled to New York City to participate in a Virtuoso Northeast Regional meeting. Attended by well over 200 Virtuoso partner suppliers, it was an excellent opportunity for me to reconnect with the partners in my current network and make new connections on behalf of my clients.

Times Square

I opted to stay at The Chatwal, a hip boutique property located on 44th Street in the heart of the Theatre District. It’s affiliated with both Virtuoso and Starwood, and appeals to leisure and business travelers alike. Because of my Virtuoso affiliation, my clients receive complimentary breakfast for two daily, a $100 spa credit at The Chatwal’s Red Door spa, and a room upgrade at check-in if available.

Lobby bar at The Chatwal

The building dates back to the 1930s and boasts a funky Empire Art Deco flair. Everything from the polished staff dressed elegantly in black and white to the jazz music playing in the lobby transports guests of The Chatwal to another time and place.

Front desk at The Chatwal

I was a big fan of the chic and comfortable rooms. They’re a good size by New York City standards (my Grand Deluxe room was 400 sq ft) and appointed with all the desired modern amenities. Highlights for me included the suede covered walls, extremely comfortable beds, and the heated toilet seat the staff turned on every evening. A unique touch!

Grande Deluxe room at The Chatwal

High tech bathroom at The Chatwal

When the meeting was over, I spent a fun afternoon shopping in SoHo - block after block is filled with unique shops and restaurants. It felt a world away from the hustle and bustle of midtown. Another highlight of my time spent in NYC was drinks with Brownell colleagues at the Mandarin Oriental. Their swanky lounge sits on the 35th floor of the hotel, offering spectacular views and sophisticated cocktails. The Mandarin Oriental is also a Virtuoso property (there are 20 of them in New York City), and my clients receive continental breakfast daily, a $100 spa credit and a room upgrade at check-in if available.

Tags: Mandarin Oriental New York City, New York City, NYC, The Chatwal, Virtuoso
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Chile: Land of Adventure and Beauty

Saturday, March 24th, 2012

One of the most exciting journeys of my life began with an overnight flight to Santiago, where I hopped on another plane which would deliver me to one of the most spectacular destinations in the world - Patagonia. The journey takes time, but it’s worth every minute spent to get there. Upon arrival, I knew I was somewhere otherworldly. From my transfer van, I gazed out at the open plains along a two lane highway that ultimately led to a new hotel called The Singular. Its arrival in Patagonia opens up a new luxury option in a part of the world with only a handful of upscale choices available to the discerning traveler.

The Singular's waterfront scenery

Rooms with a view at The Singular

The Singular is situated just a few minutes away from the charming harbor town of Puerto Natales. The property used to be a sheep processing plant (of all things!), and a large part of the original operations have been painstakingly preserved, as the hotel was recently named a Chilean national monument. The modern architecture and chic decor of the newly added hotel section somehow blend with a factory of long ago to create one of the most unique hotels I’ve personally visited.

Dining area at The Singular

Puerto Natales

The full board plan most guests opt for is an excellent value, as all meals, drinks, airport transfers, and activities with bilingual guides are included. The activity choices are vast - it would be easy to spend a week here and not see it all! Torres del Paine National Park cannot be missed, and there are simply no words to describe its beauty. Trekking is a main activity there, as this is the best way to take in the spectacular landscape.

Torres del Paine National Park

Abundant wildlife at Torres del Paine National Park

Be prepared for wind!

Upon return, I opted to spend some time at The Singular’s fantastic spa. There are plenty of treatment choices, but my favorite part of the experience was lounging in front of the floor to ceiling wall of glass which overlooked the fjords. It was a stunning view, only made better by the black necked geese swimming right in front of me at the water’s edge. Guests can get even closer to them by taking a dip in the indoor/outdoor heated pool.

Indoor/outdoor pool at the The Singular's spa

My second day started at the hotel pier, where I boarded one of The Singular’s boats for a ride through the Patagonian Fjords and ultimately to the Serrano Glacier. Along the way, I saw waterfalls, sea lions, unreachable glaciers high in the mountains, and a landscape so dramatic that I couldn’t stop snapping pictures.

Getting ready to board with Brownell colleagues

Getting ready to board with Brownell friends

Serrano Glacier

Patagonian Fjords

I reluctantly left beautiful Patagonia and made my way back to Santiago for an overnight stay at the city’s hottest new hotel, the W. It is hip and happening, and I especially loved the outdoor bar/lounge/pool area on the 21st floor.

Outdoor lounge at the W Santiago

Santiago offers a wide array of activities for visitors, including bike rides through the city, a visit to the charming Dominican market, and day trips to scenic vineyards in the countryside. It’s a great stopping off point for travelers moving from one part of the country to another.

Bike ride in Santiago

Enjoying Santiago with my Brownell friends

My final destination was Vina VIK, a magnificent vineyard comprised of 11,000 acres of stunning beauty. It’s located two hours from Santiago in the Valley of Millahue, and I can’t say enough good things about my experience there. The vineyard is directly affiliated with VIK Retreats, which is well-known in South America for their successful properties in Uruguay (Estancia VIK and Playa VIK). The vision of Vina VIK is to create a “holistic” vineyard, one which is the greenest in the country. They are already producing an excellent 2009 red wine with many more premium vintages to come.

Beauty at Vina VIK

One of many fields at Vina VIK

I was fortunate enough to tour the production facility that is currently being constructed on property. To say it is impressive is an understatement. In line with VIK’s mission to be “one” with their surrounding environment, the entire facility is being built underground so that only the roof will be visible from the hilltop where the new Vinya VIK hotel is also under construction. This luxury, boutique hotel is slated to open in late 2012, and it will be the ultimate retreat for wine and nature lovers.

Construction is underway at Vina VIK

In addition to the stunning landscape, guests will be able to trek through the extensive grounds, horseback ride to remote locations, enjoy the spa, and of course learn all about VIK’s wine-making process. In the meantime, Vina VIK is hosting guests at their hilltop cabin where I stayed. It is charming and sophisticated all at the same time, and the staff was fabulous.

Dinner at the cabin

Exterior view of the cabin

Ready for a trail ride

I had the incredible good fortune of being there the night of harvest, so I awoke very early one morning to join workers in the field and pick grapes. It was a privilege to be a part of the activities, and the experience is one that I will never forget. I’m anxious to return when the hotel is complete and see this amazing property reach its pinnacle.

Harvest time at Vina VIK

An early morning in the fields

Tags: Chile, Patagonia, Patagonian fjords, Puerto Natales, Santiago, Serrano Glacier, The Singular, The Singular Patagonia, Torres del Paine, Torres del Paine National Park, Vik, VIK retreats, Vina Vik, Vinya Vik, W Santiago
Posted in Chile, South America, Uncategorized | Comments Off

Bermuda in the Fall

Saturday, October 29th, 2011

Pink sand beaches? Check. Golf and tennis? Check. World class hotels? Check. Excellent shopping and dining ? Check. Rich history and culture to discover? Check. Ideal weather most of the year? Check. I’m referring to Bermuda, an island paradise located approximately 650 miles east of North Carolina in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

Exploring one of many stunning beaches on Bermuda

Exploring one of the many stunning beaches on Bermuda with my husband

My first impression of the island was this; “Wow, it’s so quick and easy to get here!” Bermuda can be reached from most major gateways on the east coast within two hours. By mid-afternoon, I was on the beach with a cocktail in hand. My second impression of the island was its pervasive beauty. The homes are well kept and painted cheerful colors, there is no trash to be found anywhere, and vibrant, lush landscaping covers much of the island. I’ve never seen a destination so clean and beautiful, and the friendliness of the Bermudians is the icing on the cake.

Beauty can be found around every corner!

My first stop was Rosewood’s newest addition to their Caribbean portfolio called Tucker’s Point, the first new hotel to open on the island in over a decade. This hotel embodies elegance and opulence, but it’s not fussy in any way. Families will be very comfortable bringing their children here, and couples seeking a romantic experience can rest assured that the size of the property will provide them with plenty of privacy.

Elegance at Tucker's Point: Spa relaxation area

Guest room at Tucker's Point

The main hotel is located on a bluff overlooking Castle Harbour, and all of the rooms offer dramatic views of the water. The interior design reminded me of a subdued Greenbrier Hotel style: old-world, warm, but very elegant. Activities are spread out across a sizable piece of land, so even when the hotel is full (and I stayed there when all rooms were occupied), it never feels crowded.

Exterior view of Tucker's Point

One of several, inviting common areas at Tucker's Point

Guests can choose to spend their time at one of two different pools close to the main hotel, a separate beach club and pool area, the tennis courts, the golf course, or sight-seeing around the island. Tucker’s Point Golf Club, which is situated on over 200 gorgeous acres, is a big draw for the hotel, as are the four clay tennis courts and team of professionals to help you better either game.

The grounds of Tucker's Point

Beachfront at Tucker's Point

For guests seeking relaxation and pampering, the spa at Tucker’s Point is the perfect spot to unwind. It boasts eight treatment rooms and has truly some of the prettiest common areas I’ve seen in a spa anywhere in the world. A full range of services is offered, and the therapists are well-trained professionals who will ensure your experience is a memorable one.

Relaxation pool at Tucker's Point spa

Dining at Rosewood Tucker’s Point did not disappoint, and the quality of the food and ambiance at the different restaurants was in line with other Rosewood properties in the region (i.e. fantastic!). I particularly loved my dinner at The Point, and while pricey, my husband and I definitely felt it was worth every penny.

Dining room at The Point

With Levon, one of the head doormen at Tucker's Point

A few days later, I moved to The Reefs, a well-known, family-owned hotel on the other side of the island. I loved it the minute I arrived. This hotel embodies a Bermudian charm that’s difficult to describe without seeing it with your own eyes. The setting is dramatic, which adds to the atmosphere and didn’t allow me to put down my camera for very long. There were too many possible photo opportunities everywhere I looked!

Beach perfection at The Reefs

The Reefs has been in business since the 1940s, and the Dodwell family has been working hard in recent years to keep the hotel up to date with modern amenities, but also stay true to their original goal of providing guests with a traditional Bermudian experience. Rooms are a little smaller than what you find at newer hotels, but I found them to have plenty of space for me. Additionally, the view from the balcony of my Jr. Suite couldn’t be beat.

Jr. Suite balcony view

Guest room at The Reefs

There are a number of dining options on property, and each restaurant served up delicious food in a memorable setting. I was partial to Coconuts, a romantic restaurant situated right above the beach. It was where my husband and I chose to celebrate our wedding anniversary, and I couldn’t have imagined a lovelier setting for a special occasion.

Oceanfront dining at Coconuts

The Reefs “dine around ” program is a big draw for the repeat guests who return year after year. Guests have the option to dine at Pompano Beach Club or Cambridge Beaches as part of their meal plan (Rates at The Reefs include breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner daily). It’s a great way to see other parts of the island and enjoy a diverse dining experience during your vacation. Also worth mentioning is the hotel’s brand new spa - a lovely space with eight treatment rooms and sweeping ocean views from the relaxation area.

One of many beautiful evenings guests can enjoy at The Reefs

When we weren’t enjoying these two amazing hotels, my husband and I spent our time exploring Bermuda’s varied activities and sites. There are beautiful beaches to discover, historic towns to walk through, some serious shopping to be done in Hamilton, and much, much more. I’ve already made a list of what I want to see and do when I return - this “jewel of the Atlantic” is calling me back.

Tags: Bermuda, Cambridge Beaches, Hamilton, Rosewood, Rosewood Tuckers Point, St. Georges, The Reefs, Tuckers Point, Virtuoso
Posted in Caribbean Travel, Family Travel, Honeymoons, Uncategorized | Comments Off

Las Vegas at the Bellagio

Wednesday, August 24th, 2011

Each year, Virtuoso holds the conference of all travel industry conferences in Las Vegas. It’s called Travel Mart, and to say it’s an unforgettable experience is an understatement. Over 3000 people attended this year’s event, which brings together Virtuoso suppliers and consultants from all over the world for an action-packed five days.

Travel Mart is very important for Virtuoso travel consultants like me because it’s the ultimate opportunity to refresh my knowledge of the world’s best luxury properties and tour operators, learn about new ones, and network, network, network. For four days, I sat at a table with other Brownell consultants and listened to the four minute updates each Virtuoso supplier was alloted to spend with us. By the time it was done, over 300 of the best travel contacts in the business had visited my table and met with me personally. It was an overwhelming and meaningful few days!

Bellagio has hosted Travel Mart for the past several years, and it’s one of several Virtuoso properties in the Las Vegas area. The property lived up to its reputation and my expectations. This hotel has it all: location, beautiful common areas, a fantastic casino, many great shops and restaurants, excellent service, and comfortable rooms. It’s going through a major room overhaul as well, and the updated decor is decidedly chic and luxurious. The Virtuoso amenities at Bellagio include an upgrade to a Pool View room (12th floor or higher), two $20.00 breakfast vouchers per room per day, and one voucher redeemable for the guest’s choice of either four Spa Facility Passes valued at $116.00 or an $85.00 Olives Lunch Credit (one voucher per room, per stay).

Here are the other Virtuoso properties in Las Vegas, all of which come with their own set of complimentary amenities when you book your stay through me: ARIA Resort & Casino, Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas, Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas, SKYLOFTS at MGM Grand, The SIGNATURE at MGM Grand, and Wynn Las Vegas.

Tags: Bellagio, Las Vegas, luxury travel, Travel Mart, Virtuoso
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South Beach: Everything you thought and more

Sunday, April 17th, 2011

I recently spent a long weekend in South Beach to become more familiar with the area and the numerous luxury properties available to the upscale traveler. South Beach has been on my wish list for many years, and it was a thrill to personally experience the amazing hotels, restaurants, shopping, and people watching that have made this town famous around the globe.

Beachfront at The Ritz Carlton South Beach

I began my trip at The Tides, a boutique Virtuoso property best described on the hotel’s website as ”the diva of Ocean Drive.” Guests are greeted by good-looking bellmen dressed in all white and whisked into a beautiful lobby of cream, gold and beige. A complimentary “Signature Drink” was immediately slipped into my hand, and in an instant, I felt like a movie star on vacation.

Lobby at The Tides

My husband and I opted to dine at the hotel’s sidewalk cafe, and the meal was truly incredible. I enjoyed a fantastic mojito and fresh ceviche while watching the diverse crowd of locals and tourists from all over the world meander by. Next up was a lazy afternoon on the beach, which was wider and cleaner than I ever imagined. The water boasts the same turquoise hues of the Caribbean, and despite the large number of people enjoying its beauty, I never felt it was too crowded.

Enjoying the sun and sand of South Beach

There are a number of different room categories offered at The Tides, and after seeing them all, I can honestly say there isn’t a bad room in the house. Each room provides a direct ocean view, and the decor had a consistent “South Beach chic” vibe to it. Because of my Virtuoso affiliation, my clients receive complimentary full breakfast for two daily, one lunch for two (up to $75 value), and a room upgrade if available.

Signature Oceanfront Studio Suite at The Tides

My next stop was the Ritz Carlton South Beach, another Virtuoso institution in this town of luxury hotels. The staff greeted me in the typical Ritz Carlton fashion - with flawless professionalism and a true commitment to customer service. The hotel is located literally steps from the best restaurants, shops and clubs in South Beach. In addition to offering the only club level lounge in South Beach, it also has the only beachfront restaurant in town (called The DiLido Beach Club).

Prime setting at The DiLido Beach Club

I cannot say enough good things about Club Level at the Ritz. It is worth every penny! The food presentations run all day long, and the wine, champagne, and spirits flow from lunchtime to bedtime. The club lounge is located on the 10th floor, and wall to wall windows give guests spectacular views of both the beach and Biscayne Bay.

Cocktail hour at the Ritz Carlton Club Lounge

The rooms have a more traditional Ritz Carlton feel to them, and they are comfortable and well stocked. Virtuoso guests receive some excellent amenities here: daily buffet breakfast for two, a $100 spa credit, and a room upgrade if available. For travelers seeking the familiarity of the Ritz Carlton product and a central location, this hotel is an ideal choice.

Deluxe Lanai Pool View Room at the Ritz Carlton South Beach

I also spent some time at The Setai, a 135 room Virtuoso property of pure luxury. Its Asian influenced decor is both serene and sophisticated, and some of the interior details are quite remarkable. The lobby boasts a floor made up entirely of centuries-old brick imported from Shanghai, and the mother of pearl bar couldn’t be a swankier spot to enjoy your favorite martini.

Courtyard at The Setai

I was particularly impressed by The Setai’s commitment to room quality. Their rooms are in immaculate condition, mainly due to the fact that no interior is older than 365 days. The hotel is constantly refurbishing and upgrades every room once a year: a luxury few other properties in the world can afford. Guests have the choice of staying in either the main hotel or the new tower with larger 1, 2 and 3 bedroom suites. Virtuoso amenities at The Setai include full buffet breakfast daily for two, a $100 spa credit, and a room upgrade if avaialable.

Studio Suite at The Setai

For spa lovers, The Setai offers some of the nicest treatment rooms in South Beach. I especially liked their spa suites, which hold up to four guests at a time and are ideal for a girls’ getaway. After relaxing at the spa, no stay at The Setai would be complete without spending time at one of their three pools. Each one is maintained at a separate temperature, so depending on your mood and the weather, you can choose accordingly!

Spa Suite at The Setai

When I wasn’t checking out hotels, I spent my time in South Beach dining at fantastic restaurants and buying more than I should at some of their wonderful boutiques. The town lived up to every expectation and exceeded it in terms of the friendliness of the people. I met people from all over the world, and their warmth mirrored the warm sun of this tropical American paradise. When can I go back???

Tags: Brownell, luxury travel, Miami, Miami Beach, Ritz Carlton South Beach, South Beach, The Setai, The Tides, The Tides South Beach, Virtuoso, Virtuoso hotels South Beach
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The Greenbrier: A Winter Wonderland

Saturday, December 26th, 2009

It started with an ominous weather forecast. Snow, snow, and more snow! Not to be deterred from accepting a gracious invitation to experience firsthand the elegance and luxury of The Greenbrier, I made my way into the mountains of West Virginia for what promised to be a weekend to remember.

My husband and I were just one hour away from the resort when the snow started to fall, and before we knew it, a full-blown, pre-Christmas blizzard was upon us! We fortunately made it safely and realized later that evening just how lucky we had been to arrive when we did, as conditions quickly worsened throughout the afternoon, making it virtually impossible for those behind us to reach the resort until the next day. Before it was all over, almost two feet of snow had fallen!

Located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, The Greenbrier has it all - gorgeous architecture, uniquely beautiful interior design, fantastic dining, a first class spa, endless activities for guests of all ages, and truly exceptional service. The impeccable service started with the welcoming faces and kind words of the front gate guards, and it remained consistently wonderful until the moment we were sent off on our way home with a smile and two bottles of water for the road. I’ve honestly never encountered a group of people so loyal and willing to do whatever it took to make my stay special in every way.

The recent arrival of Jim Justice as the new owner was a turning point for a resort in need of innovation. Mr. Justice is a legendary West Virginian businessman who saw a unique opportunity to take ownership of his state’s beloved landmark and lead it in a new direction. Under Mr. Justice’s leadership, there are numerous, exciting changes taking place. In addition to the recent opening of Prime 44 West, a premier steakhouse honoring Hall of Fame basketball player Jerry West, construction has already begun on an 80,000 square foot casino which will be located underground beneath the front entrance. The Casino will feature an elegant, Monte Carlo-style decor and is scheduled to open in April 2010. In the meantime, the resort has opened a smaller,more intimate casino called The Tavern, which will be available for private parties after the bigger casino opens its doors this spring. Additionally, The Greenbrier recently announced that it will be hosting the PGA tour’s newest event, called The Greenbrier Classic. Now an official stop on the PGA tour, the resort will have another reason to lure visitors to its historic fairways.

When asked the question, “Who are the best types of clients to send to The Greenbrier?” I tell people the resort offers something for everyone. It’s perfect for families, multi-generational gatherings, romantic getaways and corporate retreats. I’m partial to the Spa for its robust menu of services, talented staff, and lovely ambiance, but there are so many other wonderful things to see and do during your stay. Golf, tennis, bowling, falconry, off-road driving, hiking, swimming (indoor and outdoor), sleigh riding, horseback riding, and white water rafting are just some of the many activities offered. For the little ones, there is a great children’s program as well.

Because of the snowstorm, I had the good fortune of extending my stay for one extra day. Between the beautiful Christmas decorations, snowy grounds, and fine dining, I was happy to be “stranded!” Consider this legendary resort for your next special occasion or if you just need to get away for a few days. Brownell shares a preferred relationship with the hotel, which translates into special amenities when you book through me. I can’t imagine a better place to spend some downtime in the gracious and pampering hands of a staff who will welcome you back year after year.

sprinhousesnow

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