Damon M. Banks |

In The News: The Fantastic Recipes by Mandarin Oriental

Damon M. Banks — Sat, 25 Jul 2020 12:06:42 +0000

I was pleased to contribute to this story with Luxury Daily about the virtual cooking opportunities with Mandarin Oriental, titled “The Fantastic Recipes.” Mandarin Oriental is running this new content marketing campaign that aims to connect virtually with consumers on lockdown through its classic hospitality, keeping ties warm with its audience and hoping to resume the in-person relationship once travel restrictions are lifted.

Featured Image Courtesy Mandarin Oriental

In The News: Will Luxury Hotels Have Upper Hand When Travel Returns

Damon M. Banks — Sat, 25 Jul 2020 11:50:11 +0000

I was pleased to contribute to this story with Luxury Daily about the expectations when travel does return in a post-covid world. The travel and tourism business has been hit hard as lockdowns and border closures to curb the COVID-19 outbreak are keeping consumers from leaving their homes.

There could be a new opportunity for luxury hotels and resorts when they do reopen to win back the affluent clientele that turned to Airbnb rentals in recent years. Luxury hotels can offer a higher- hygiene, standardized cleaning process with consistency across properties in a key differentiation that might be lacking at typical Airbnb rentals – a post-coronavirus asset.

Featured Image: Courtesy Four Seasons Resort Anguilla

A Look Back at 14 Memorable Hotel Experiences

Damon M. Banks — Tue, 26 May 2020 21:01:19 +0000

These are strange times, indeed. I have spent years working and planning “the next” project or assignment, when working with publishers, hotels, destinations and other travel and lifestyle brands. Whether it was my work on brand marketing projects; developing editorial destination features; or reviewing hotels; there has always been an urgency to begin focusing on the next job.

While I switched directions in an effort to stay home and stay safe during this pandemic, I took some time to look back at several of my favorite hotel experiences over the years. I chose to highlight 14 of these properties within the United States as part of a 14-Day Hotel Challenge to further support the hospitality industry, which has been turned upside down during the past few months. While I could easily expand this to include additional positive hospitality experiences I have had at properties around the world, these 14 hotels and resorts provided a memorable experience worthy of some recognition.

We will travel again, but until then, here is a look at 14 hotels and resorts from coast to coast that still stand out to me after all these years. When it is time to begin planning your travels again, I hope that you find an opportunity to visit a few of these options that I have listed alphabetically, based on each state. Stay safe everyone!

Arizona | Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North

This is a true getaway into the desert, and one that will leave you feeling refreshed and renewed. Like so many Four Seasons properties, the level of service here is exceptional while you savor every minute taking-in the amazing views of Pinnacle Peak and the surrounding landscape. This is also perfect for families with a complimentary kids program, a kids pool, larger casita options and more.

Favorite Features: The blissful pool, local golf options, and the Patio Firepit Casita option is ideal for the area.

Learn More: www.fourseasons.com/scottsdale

California | Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa

My love for this property goes back many years, but it remains one of my favorites in California when needing a great golf and spa getaway with friends and family. Not only is the resort in one of the most desirable regions in the country due to the weather and views, but it also takes it to another level with an unpretentious luxury experience from the moment you check-in to the time that you must check-out. I cannot wait to visit this one again to see the latest renovations…

Favorite Features: The spa, Aviara Golf Course, and though there are no “bad views” from anywhere on the property, I love the Coastal View rooms and suites.

Learn More: www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/california/park-hyatt-aviara-resort

Colorado | Sonnenalp Vail

This is about as close as you can get to a European getaway without leaving the United States. Vail Village is a favorite for the cozy feel with world-class shopping and dining; and the personalized services at Sonnenalp make you never want to leave this dreamy destination. Let them take care of all the details when enjoying hiking and golf in the summer months, or skiing and snowboarding during the winter season.

Favorite Features: The Two-Bedroom Suites, indoor/outdoor pool and spa area, and do not miss the amazing breakfast experience that is one of the best I’ve enjoyed in the United States.

Learn More: www.sonnenalp.com

District of Columbia | Fairmont Washington DC Georgetown

This has been another favorite hotel for many years, even back to when I visited D.C. before moving to the area. A recent renovation has taken this property from great to simply amazing. It is certainly worth the upgrade to Fairmont Gold for the private check-in and concierge service, and to have access to the beautiful club lounge to use throughout the day.

Favorite Features: Fairmont Gold is hard to beat, as is the location being so close to all Georgetown has to offer – and relaxing in the gorgeous lobby in hopes to catch a glimpse of their canine ambassador, Georgie.

Learn More: www.fairmont.com/washington

Florida | The Breakers Palm Beach

I never shy away from telling others that visiting The Breakers is a must-do at least once in your lifetime. The services, amenities, spa, golf and dining make every stay priceless, but it’s the awe-inspiring architecture and attention to detail that makes this place such a treasure.

Favorite Features: The Ocean Course on property, the bungalow rentals and the renovated suites… and for the ultimate experience, the hotel within a hotel at the Flagler Club.

Learn More: www.thebreakers.com

Georgia | The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee

This is truly a different kind of Ritz-Carlton experience, but that is what makes it so special. The lodge feel from the moment you enter the lobby puts you at ease, and the signature service you would expect makes for a relaxed luxury adventure. The lakeside vibes are perfection, and even better when you take advantage of The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge Suites for their elevated concierge experience.

Favorite Features: Access to the local golf, relaxing by the lake, and joining others by the fire for evening s’mores.

Learn More: www.ritzcarlton.com/reynolds

Illinois | The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago

This location is simply the best in Chicago that is within walking distance of just about everything. Plus, it has immediate access to the great shops of Water Tower Place, which is ideal during the winter months. A recent renovation has only made this property that much better, and certainly my pick for anyone looking to visit Chicago.

Favorite Features: The Club Lounge, the concierge team, and the Lakeside Suite (or any of the lake view rooms and suites).

Learn More: www.ritzcarlton.com/chicago

Interstate | Home 2 Suites by Hilton

I had to throw this into the mix of favorite hotel experiences because I was so pleasantly surprised when discovering several Home2Suites by Hilton while driving to another hotel project. Of course, the few times that I visited these properties, they were fairly new, but still really impressed with the inventive design within the rooms that just makes sense. Hilton invests a lot of time and money into creating unique experiences, and this is seen here.

Favorite Features: They were clean and modern, and I appreciated the in-suite kitchens, and the commitment to being Green.

Learn More: www.hilton.com/en/home2

New York | The Kimberly Hotel

This hotel treats me like family each time I visit, and this goes back nearly twenty years now. The intimate feel within one of the busiest cities in the world makes this a special place to call “home” while in Manhattan. The location is perfect to all you want in midtown, and the larger than average rooms and suites provide a unique, yet cozy experience.

Favorite Features: The staff is amazing and the views from their rooftop “Upstairs” are fantastic for locals and tourists during breakfast or happy hour.

Learn More: www.kimberlyhotel.com

North Carolina | The Ivey’s Hotel

I was finally able to experience this boutique hotel after hearing great things for several years… and it did not disappoint! Nestled in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, this hotel was charming on every level, and the attention to detail was amazing in the suites. For anyone looking for a boutique hotel experience that is full of character, then this is a must-visit for them.

Favorite Features: Attention to detail in the suites (bathrooms, furniture and décor), and enjoying coffee in the Library Lounge each morning.

Learn More: www.theiveyshotel.com

Ohio | The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland

If you find yourself in Cleveland, this is where you need to stay. Period. I was so pleasantly surprised with every new discovery at this property. The rooms and suites are intelligently designed with all the technology we want in rooms today, the Club Lounge is friendly and inviting, and the localized food options and craft cocktails at Turn Bar & Kitchen are spectacular.

Favorite Features: The Junior Presidential Suite is one of the finest “standard” suites I’ve experienced in years, and the level of friendly and professional service is simply refreshing.

Learn More: www.ritzcarlton.com/cleveland

South Carolina | Andell Inn

As many people know, I worked at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort while in high school and college, so getting back to this area is always a treat. The Andell Inn is a true treasure for this area, and just steps away from all the great coastal stores and local restaurants of Freshfields Village. The hotel has a boutique feel with a great dose of whimsy and beach coziness that I love.

Favorite Features: The large wrap-around patio is ideal to relax, and the one- and two-bedroom residences are perfect for extended stays and families/groups with plenty of room to spread out (and includes a kitchen).

Learn More: www.andellinn.com

Utah | Montage Deer Valley

Another beautiful destination, whether it be for skiing by day and enjoying snowy nights by the fireplace in the winter months, or hiking the beautiful mountains, followed by cocktails outside in the evening during the summer months. Montage Deer Valley has a lot to offer, and the concierge staff here is focused on creating the perfect Deer Valley getaway for every guest.

Favorite Features: The Peak View Suites are the perfect combination of masculine features with elegant accents and the spa is a must-visit while at the property. Monty is their canine ambassador, who is a Bernese Mountain Dog that everyone loves to visit!

Learn More: www.montagehotels.com/deervalley

Virginia | The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner

This is one of those special hotel properties that has all the luxurious services and amenities you want from a large hotel, but it is also able to provide a very “boutique” feel because of the level of personalized and bespoke services you receive each step of the way. The Club Lounge is another great addition to the property, while also having easy access to the local malls and restaurants.

Favorite Features: No detail has been overlooked when it comes to the room and suites here, and the personal approach to each guest is hard to beat.

Learn More: www.ritzcarlton.com/tysons-corner

In The News: Most Instagrammed Luxury Hotel Brand

Damon M. Banks — Sat, 23 May 2020 02:58:53 +0000

I was pleased to contribute to this story for Luxury Daily that features Four Seasons as the most instagrammed luxury hotel brand worldwide…

This is a win for a company that has focused on a visible consumer-facing digital strategy, adopting everything from podcasts and hashtags to emails and tweets.

In The News: Luxury Hotels Post Covid-19

Damon M. Banks — Sat, 23 May 2020 02:29:20 +0000

I was pleased to contribute to this story for Luxury Daily that explores the future of travel after the Covid-19 pandemic…

The travel and tourism business has been hit hard this winter and spring as lockdowns and border closures to curb the COVID-19 outbreak are keeping consumers from leaving their homes. But when luxury hotels and resorts reopen, there could be a new opportunity to claw back the affluent clientele that turned to Airbnb rentals in recent years. Luxury hotels can offer a higher- hygiene, standardized cleaning process with consistency across properties in a key differentiation that might be lacking at typical Airbnb rentals – a post-coronavirus asset.

The 15 Best Afternoon Tea Experiences in London

Damon M. Banks — Wed, 25 Jul 2018 06:18:53 +0000

According to historians, Afternoon Tea began at the time that kerosene lanterns had been introduced, and it became fashionable to have dinner later in the evening. This left many very hungry between the primary meals at that time of breakfast and dinner, and they needed an afternoon snack. Over the years, it continued to evolve and was not only part of the daily routine for many everyday people and families, but it also became a favorite pastime for ladies of leisure.

Afternoon Tea, also known as Low Tea, was enjoyed on lower tables, such as coffee tables, while relaxing in comfortable chairs and enjoying the tea service. Typically, you have the option of three Afternoon Tea services: Cream Tea includes the tea with a light selection of scones and cream, Light Tea also includes a selection of sweet treats and/or fruit, and finally the tea service we generally see today is Full Tea that includes all of these along with savory selections and finger sandwiches.

High Tea was originally served on high tables, and included meat and fish dishes, as well as additional heavier dishes. High Tea was for the working class, and served after they returned from work… Of course, many people still use the term “High Tea” to simply sound more regal, without taking the time to educate themselves about the history of this iconic tradition.

Afternoon Tea is a ritual in London, and one that every traveler should make sure to include during their visit. While many choose the traditional service at iconic locations such as Claridge’s or The Dorchester (both never disappoint), London also has local favorites like Cake Boy and Sketch, and new twists on tradition at Ting and Sosharu. Regardless of where you choose to take the time to savor an Afternoon Tea service customized just for you, know that you are enjoying a timeless tradition that dates back to the mid-1800’s. To get you started, we have created this collection of 15 of our favorite Afternoon Tea options in London. Enjoy!

Tauck and BBC Earth Offer Amazing Family Getaways

Damon M. Banks — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 15:46:10 +0000

Tauck has collaborated with BBC Earth to craft once-in-a-lifetime getaways for families seeking magical learning experiences that unfold in places where wildlife is observed in the natural habitats. Join Tauck in Tanzania, where you will spot Africa’s Big Five on the savannah, plains, and grasslands that leads to the ultimate family safari; in Alaska, where creatures large and small thrive in a variety of ecosystems and environments; throughout the Galápagos Archipelago, where you will find amazing wildlife that lives nowhere else on earth; and explore the rainforest while in Costa Rica.

Barge Cruising with Abercrombie & Kent

Damon M. Banks — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 11:54:17 +0000

For more than 50 years now, many travelers in search of a unique travel experience that maintains focus on small groups and cultural immersion have looked to Abercrombie & Kent for a growing number of unforgettable getaways. The idea of a personalized river cruise on a barge with your friends and family is not for everyone, but for those looking for something truly intimate that caters to groups often not exceeding six or eight guests, a barge cruise makes a very attractive way to see the world. Who would have thought that barges and bespoke luxury could work so well together?

Under The Michelin’s Stars – Spain’s Gourmet Dining Scene

Damon M. Banks — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 23:10:18 +0000

Always a fan of the food scenes throughout Europe, and certainly enjoying the excitement surrounding this delicious trend in Spain, I was excited to write this feature for the premier issue of Luxury Link’s digital magazine. Featuring Madrid, Barcelona and Basque Country, this story brings to light the amazing number of Michelin Star chefs throughout these areas…

For Luxury Link Lifestyle | Winner of NATJA’s Writing Contest – Gold Prize Winner

A Regal New York City Hotel Opening For The Quin

Damon M. Banks — Wed, 20 Nov 2013 03:34:58 +0000

It has finally happened after years of talk and renovations, along with a delayed opening date – The Quin has opened their doors officially as of 11:11am on November 11, 2013. The corner of 57th Street and 6th Avenue once again shines bright with the renewed sense of belonging. Opened as the handsome Buckingham Hotel in 1929, this corner was a favorite hotspot for a number of actors, musicians, dignitaries and politicians for the better part of the 20th Century. Today, The Quin is excited to showcase this beloved destination to their guests once again, featuring timeless elegance with modern conveniences.

The Overview:

With so many immediate influences in this energetic part of Manhattan, the property seems to be taking its cues from the nearby Carnegie Hall, Central Park, Museum of Modern Art and the trendy shops of 5th Avenue. Here, The Quin is now a beautiful convergence of nature, art, style and artistry for their guests looking for a peaceful retreat from the organized chaos of the streets of New York City. Guests are exposed to luxurious public spaces celebrating the hotel’s artistic heritage, including a permanent showing of works by acclaimed Irish painter Patrick Graham. Covering all the basics for a competitive New York City hotel today, the hotel offers “QUIN-tessential Assistants,” who are there to assist guests with any of their needs, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness center, inventive cuisine and several business opportunities for meetings and gatherings.

Rooms and Suites:

The rooms and suites here are said to be the absolute treasure of the property. As we all know, New York City hotel rooms are known to be small and often out of date, though recently updated. The Quin is making great strides to be competitive in this area by offering what they refer to as “intelligent warmth” with a mix of lacquered wood and sustainable materials mixed with chic custom furnishings, including Duxiana beds with Sferra linens, Nespresso machines and the Evolve Controls for the lighting, temperature and music. The property offers 205 guest options, with 27 suites, including several unique suites honoring O’Keeffe, Paderewski and Roth. However, none can compare to the over-the-top penthouse suite where the word “suite” seems to be an understatement, considering it stretches the top three floors of the hotel; providing its guests with three bedrooms, dining room that seats 12 comfortably and a 1,200 square foot terrace overlooking Central Park. This makes the terrace larger than most homes in the heart of the city.

Final Notes:

I am not associated with the Quin, but had reached out to their public relations team several weeks prior to the opening, and have been monitoring the progress of this hotel during the renovation. The artwork and finishes provide a modern opulence to this area of midtown, and the room furnishings and amenities are certainly a very large plus for the Quin. Like many of these historic buildings in New York, the windows are small and not the oversized floor-to-ceiling windows found in many of the newer buildings today, but they have seemingly tried to balance the small windows with luxurious interiors. From the looks of the public areas of the hotel, the Quin management (SLH – Small Luxury Hotels of the World) and the design firm of Perkins Eastman have done an exceptional job of fully transporting this property to modern day, while not completely letting go of the luxuriously original architecture and design. Once the Quin makes it through the first several weeks of opening setbacks, and is fully operational, I look forward to seeing much more from this hotel.

The Kimberly Hotel | Manhattan’s Suite Deal

Damon M. Banks — Thu, 04 Jul 2013 14:16:43 +0000

With cities like New York, I always tend to have my favorite hotels for a variety of occasions and reasons: the size of the rooms, best brunch, afternoon tea service, rooftop bars, staff, amenities and spas, to name a few. In Manhattan, among my favorites is The Kimberly Hotel for their impeccable services from a staff that always goes above and beyond, and their amazing rooftop, Upstairs At The Kimberly…