I'm not quite sure how one can top visiting and writing about spas...it's the best hobby ever! However, in the past several months I have enjoyed adding to my travel experiences -- I have been visiting
boutique hotels. And what I love about it is that it is still unique enough to offer an experience...not just a same ole' chain hotel or resort.
I think we can all agree that
Facebook is a great way to network (and let's just admit it -- it's fun!). Several months ago, I connected with
Larry Broughton of Broughton Hospitality Group. We were connected for two reasons -- first that I am a traveler and reviewer of spas (and hotels) and it seemed like we would be compatible FB friends AND ... (this is the cool coincidence part)...we have the same last name!
It's a small world...turns out 3 of the Broughton properties are in or near Santa Barbara where I live! Larry and I met over coffee and discussed his cool story of how he came to be who he is -- speaker, entrepreneur, author...and seriously one of the coolest cats I've ever had the pleasure of getting to talk with.
So in the past couple of months I have visited a couple of the Broughton properties:
The Morgan near San Simeon and
the Andreas in Palm Springs. Both are *amazing*...unique in character, history, details. I adore these boutique hotels! The Morgan is named after Julia Morgan -- the architect who designed and built the
Hearst Castle; there are original architecture sketches of her plans throughout The Morgan. While staying there, I would highly recommend visiting the local wineries and also the Hearst Castle.
Andreas Hotel and Spa in Palm Springs, a completely different atmosphere (hot desert vs foggy beachy San Simeon), but so quaint and with 24/7 WARM weather, the pool is open all night. Swimming under the stars in the warm evening...gotta love it. While in Palm Springs, I would recommend going on the
Tram...going up 8000 feet...a great view and good way to get a feel of the cooler weather.
Did I visit a spa while at these properties?...nope...didn't need to -- my "spa" and getting away was simply enjoying these charming boutiques. Next on my boutique list...
Kay el Bar in Arizona and...Bali in December. These Broughton properties won't be the best kept secret for too much longer...how did I not know about them before? Either way, what a tremendous find!
Labels: andreas hotel and spa, bali hotel, boutique hotels, broughton hospitality, hearst castle, kay el bar, larry broughton, palm springs, palm springs tramway, san simeon, the morgan