Jay Pritzker was one smart hotelier. In the late 50’s he figured out that people needed nice hotels near airports. He bought a small motel near LAX and started the Hyatt chain. 20 years later he saw a market for luxury, high end hotels in top city locations. These deluxe hotels would incorporate fine dining, art, culture and great service. He opened this, the first in what was to become the Park Hyatt brand in his hometown of Chicago on the Magnificent Mile in 1979. It was completely rebuilt in 2000, thoroughly modern, taking full advantage of its unique location for fabulous views. The artwork dotted throughout the Chicago Park Hyatt is from the Pritzker Family’s private collection. It includes Chihuly sculptures, a Matisse and striking black & white photos of Chicago specially commissioned for the hotel. The Park Hyatt is more than just a place to sleep. They hold unique events throughout the year including several Masters of Wines evenings. The outside garden offers special chef stations, live music and unique cocktail hours all summer long. A must do if you happen to be in the windy city during warm weather. For kids they offer the Bark Hyatt Passport… a scavenger hunt for younger guests to complete. Finishers win a stuffed model of the resident mascot, the rescued, one-eyed pug Parker.
Sleek, chic and contemporary, Le Gray is Gordon Campbell Gray’s first hotel creation in the Middle East. Gems from the art collection that he has curated are everywhere, he personally decided where each of the more that 500 pieces scattered throughout the hotel should be hung. The rooms are large with huge bathrooms. You can even watch TV in the tub. Indigo on the Roof is the place for gourmet food, breathtaking views over Mohamed el Amine Mosque and a chance to sample wines from the hotel’s award-winning cellar. They have been three-time Wine Spectator Outstanding List in the World recipient. Try to be there during the call to prayer…magical! The spa is a destination in its own right. The deep tissue massage left me both relaxed and energized. Who knew a glass of fresh squeezed orange juice and chocolate fondue would be the perfect after treatment treat. Le Gray of course!
best beds…find your perfect place to sleep
Figuring out where to go is easy, figuring out where to stay is not. I have carefully curated this list of places to sleep. I have stayed in each and every one. I have slept in the bed, eaten the breakfast and visited the pool, spa or ice machine. I have chatted with the who’s who in charge. These are the places I recommend… you don’t need to know about the others! Trust me!
I’d be delighted to connect you… my friends, my clients, my readers… with these hosts. Some offer special amenities due to my affiliation with the Virtuoso network and some offer perks because I am providing your introduction. Either way let my goodwill be your goodwill. Alternatively, you can click on the link and book or explore further on your own.
Some pay a commission to travel advisors, many do not. I’m transparent. I’ll tell you if you ask me.
