5. Post Ranch Inn
A pristine retreat along the Pacific Ocean less than an hour south of Monterey in Big Sur, the Post Ranch Inn is renowned for its rustic atmosphere and indulgent comfort. Guests delight in the views from their guest rooms, gazing at either rising mountains or the expansive seas. The hotel’s 39 rooms were designed for utter relaxation – you won’t find TVs here, but rather wood-burning fireplaces, private hot tubs and binoculars to help you see more clearly from your personal deck. Should you need your fix of TV, you can head to the library, although the inn’s activities should be enough to keep you busy. When visitors are not taking advantage of the on-site amenities – the pools (some of the world’s most beautiful), spa, yoga classes and star-gazing excursions, to name a few – they are appreciating the great outdoors on local hikes or watching the sun set over nearby Pfeiffer Beach.
6. The Lowell Hotel New York
Perched on the Upper East Side just a couple of blocks from Fifth Avenue’s sleek storefronts, The Lowell Hotel New York provides travelers with easy access to iconic city attractions and venerable department stores. But that’s not the only reason recent guests adore this stylish boutique. The Lowell exudes a serene, elegant ambiance, further enhanced by its calming gold, cream and white color scheme. By New York standards, The Lowell is small (74 rooms and suites); however, many previous travelers call the hotel’s quiet, cozy atmosphere the perfect retreat from the buzzing city blocks. Accommodations come appointed with luxurious extras, such as down comforters, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi access – all major perks, according to previous visitors.
